Chapter 72: Trials of the Second Semester

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As the sun rose over Astral Heaven Academy, Dabi prepared to embark on his second semester. With his recent experiences still fresh in his mind, he felt a renewed sense of purpose and determination. The academy's atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anxiety as students discussed their upcoming classes and challenges.

Dabi headed to the lecture hall, where he was greeted by his classmates. The instructor, a stern yet knowledgeable woman named Professor Elara, began the session by outlining the semester's curriculum, which included advanced combat training, dimensional theory, and monster hunting expeditions.

"Welcome to your second semester," Professor Elara announced, her voice steady. "This semester, you will be expected to apply your skills in practical scenarios. We will begin with a series of monster hunting missions in the nearby Dimensional Forest. Be prepared for anything."

As the class ended, Dabi felt a rush of excitement mixed with apprehension. He had grown stronger, but he knew the challenges ahead would test his limits. After gathering his gear and ensuring Nyx, his loyal pet, was ready, he set out with a group of classmates, ready to face the dangers lurking in the forest.

Once they arrived at the Dimensional Forest, the air was thick with tension. The trees twisted unnaturally, their shadows flickering in the dim light. Dabi's instincts kicked in, and he led the group deeper into the woods.

Suddenly, a rustling noise echoed through the trees. Without warning, a pack of feral beasts charged from the underbrush, their eyes glowing with a menacing hunger. The group sprang into action, weapons drawn. Dabi felt a surge of adrenaline as he summoned his skills, positioning himself strategically.

Dabi unleashed his Phantom Steps, darting between the creatures with unparalleled agility. He targeted the largest beast, executing a precise Void Slash that cleaved through the air and struck true. The creature howled in pain, staggering backward as Dabi followed up with a quick Universal Contract, summoning Fen, Whity, and Nyx to aid him in the battle.

The feral beasts fought fiercely, but Dabi's training and his pets' instincts allowed them to gain the upper hand. Fen and Whity engaged the smaller monsters, while Nyx used her unique abilities to create illusions, confusing their attackers. After a grueling battle, they emerged victorious, the remaining beasts retreating into the depths of the forest. Breathing heavily, Dabi looked around at his classmates, who were equally exhausted yet exhilarated by their triumph.

"Great job, everyone!" Dabi encouraged, earning nods of approval. "Let's keep moving; we need to gather more experience."

The team pressed on, facing several more encounters throughout the day. Dabi fought valiantly, honing his skills and improving his combat techniques with each battle. By the time the sun began to set, he had defeated multiple monsters and earned valuable experience points.

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System Notification:

Level Up! Dabi has reached Level 69.

Stat Points Earned: 12

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After a long day of hunting, Dabi opened his system interface to allocate the new stat points. With determination, he decided to focus entirely on enhancing his strength, knowing that raw power would be essential in the battles to come.

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Dabi's Updated Stats (Level 69):

Strength: 104

Agility: 99 (+10 from the ring)

Endurance: 88

Intelligence: 73

Mana: 650

Memory: 59

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With his new strength, Dabi felt an exhilarating rush of power. He was now more formidable than ever, ready to face the challenges ahead in his second semester. As he and his classmates made their way back to the academy, Dabi's mind buzzed with possibilities, eager to continue his journey.

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