Kazaf: The upside down

The battle had ended, but the weight of what had transpired still lingered in the air. As Kazaf and his group made their way back to the Elara Sect, their bodies bore the signs of combat—torn clothing, bruises, and the lingering burn of exerted Qi. Despite the exhaustion, a sense of triumph filled the group. They had stood against Jalwa's forces and prevailed.

Rahim wiped blood from his forehead, his grin wide. "That was intense! Did you see the way Kazaf sent that guy flying?"

Samir smirked, sheathing his daggers. "I saw it. I was more impressed by the fact that Malik was actually scared for a moment."

Harun, always the more analytical one, remained serious. "This was just a scouting force. Jalwa won't take this lightly. He'll come back stronger."

Kazaf knew Harun was right. Malik's words still echoed in his mind: This isn't over.

As they reached the sect's main hall, Master Azim was already waiting for them, his expression unreadable.

"You returned alive," he said, scanning each of them. "Good. But tell me, what did you learn?"

Kazaf stepped forward. "Jalwa's forces are probing the sect's defenses. Malik led them, but he wasn't their strongest. They were after the Spirit Stone of Eternity."

Azim's eyes darkened at the mention of the stone. "As expected. This will not be the last time they come."

Elçin folded her arms, glancing at Kazaf. "We need to be ready."

Azim nodded. "Indeed. And to prepare, I have decided on your next step." He turned his gaze to Kazaf. "You must begin training at the highest level the Elara Sect can offer. Your battle potential is clear, but you need refinement."

Kazaf's jaw tightened. "I'll do whatever it takes."

Azim's eyes held a flicker of approval. "Good. Starting tomorrow, you will train under Master Idris, one of our sect's greatest combat instructors."

Rahim whistled. "Idris? That's serious."

Samir nodded. "He's strict, but if anyone can make Kazaf stronger, it's him."

Kazaf looked at Azim. "And what about the rest of us?"

Azim smiled slightly. "Your companions will also receive advanced training. War is coming, and we must all be ready."

Harun exhaled. "Then we should get some rest. We'll need it."

Azim dismissed them, and the group dispersed to recover.

That night, as Kazaf lay on his bed, staring at the ceiling, he felt the weight of his destiny pressing upon him. Jalwa wanted him, wanted his bloodline, wanted power. But Kazaf had no intention of becoming anyone's pawn.

Tomorrow, his training would begin.

And he would be ready.

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