Kazaf: The upside down

The journey back to the Elara Sect was tense. The artifact pulsed with faint energy in Kazaf's hands, its inscriptions shifting as if whispering secrets only he could hear. It was no ordinary relic. It carried a history of power, destruction, and the greed of those who sought it.

Rahim walked beside him, eyeing the artifact warily. "You realize this makes you a target, right?"

Kazaf smirked. "Since when was I not a target?"

Dulla let out a chuckle. "Fair point."

The weight of their recent battle in Azure Valley still hung over them. They had survived, but survival in the Down world was never enough. The true consequences of their actions had yet to unfold.

Harun exhaled. "At least we got what we came for."

Samir crossed his arms. "And we'll be fighting to keep it."

Kazaf knew he was right. This was only the beginning.

---

Return to the Elara Sect

By the time they arrived at the sect, the sun had set, casting long shadows over the ancient stone walls. Disciples gathered at the gates, murmuring among themselves.

"They're back!"

"Did they really get the artifact?"

"I heard they fought a demon!"

Kazaf sighed. Rumors spread too fast.

Inside the grand hall, Sect Leader Jamal Kassim waited alongside the elders. His sharp gaze fell on the artifact in Kazaf's hands before shifting to meet his eyes.

"You succeeded," Jamal said. It wasn't a question—it was an acknowledgment.

Kazaf placed the relic before him. "We found it, but it wasn't unguarded."

Elder Nadim stepped forward, running his hands over the inscriptions. "This artifact is no ordinary relic… It's bound to something much greater."

Kazaf exhaled. "Something that probably wants me dead."

Elder Basir smirked. "You're learning quickly."

Jamal motioned for the artifact to be taken away for further study. "Rest while you can. This battle was only the beginning."

Kazaf nodded, but he knew rest wouldn't come easily.

---

A Visit Under the Moonlight

Later that night, Kazaf stood alone in the courtyard, gazing up at the stars. The weight of the artifact still lingered in his mind. He had fought strong enemies before, but this… this was different.

A familiar voice broke the silence.

"You don't look like someone who just won a great battle."

Kazaf turned to see Elder Basir approaching. Unlike most elders, Basir carried himself with a relaxed confidence, his sharp wit making him both respected and feared.

Kazaf smirked. "Winning doesn't mean much when another fight is already waiting."

Basir chuckled. "Wise words for someone so young." He studied Kazaf for a moment before speaking again. "Strength alone won't be enough."

Kazaf exhaled. "Then what will?"

Basir gave him a knowing look. "You'll figure it out soon enough."

Kazaf wasn't sure if that was reassuring or a warning.

---

Tension in the Sect

The next morning, the sect was alive with activity. The news of Kazaf's success had spread, and the disciples were eager to see what would happen next.

As Kazaf walked toward the training grounds, he noticed a group of disciples gathered at the entrance of the main hall. Standing among them, exuding an air of quiet authority, was Idris.

Kazaf's eyes narrowed slightly. So he's still here.

Rahim leaned in. "He hasn't left since his proposal."

Dulla scoffed. "That means trouble."

Kazaf already knew that.

Idris turned toward them, his sharp gaze landing on Kazaf. A slow smirk formed on his lips. "Ah, the hero of Azure Valley returns."

Kazaf crossed his arms. "You're still here?"

Idris chuckled. "I've been waiting for the sect leader's answer. You know how these things take time." His eyes flickered with amusement. "Of course, my offer still stands."

Kazaf clenched his jaw. The alliance… in exchange for Asma's hand in marriage.

Jamal Kassim's voice suddenly cut through the courtyard. "Idris."

Idris turned, his expression unreadable as the sect leader approached.

"We have yet to decide," Jamal said, his gaze steady. "Elara Sect does not take matters of marriage lightly."

Idris nodded as if he expected this answer. "Of course. But I hope you understand… My patience isn't limitless." He turned to Kazaf again. "Especially when I see how… protective some people are of her."

Kazaf met his gaze without flinching. "If you're looking to provoke me, try harder."

Idris laughed. "Oh, I don't need to. I just enjoy watching you react."

Dulla muttered under his breath, "This guy's a real piece of work."

Kazaf agreed.

Idris's smirk widened. "I look forward to our next meeting, Kazaf." And with that, he walked away, leaving an unspoken challenge in the air.

Kazaf exhaled. This isn't over.

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