Kazaf: The upside down

The Elara Sect had survived the onslaught of Jalwa's enforcers, but the battle had left its scars—both on its warriors and its land. The once-pristine courtyards were stained with blood, and the sect's disciples, though victorious, knew that this was only the beginning.

Kazaf stood at the heart of it all.

His injuries ached—his body was battered, his muscles sore, and yet, the fire in his chest burned brighter than ever. The war was far from over.

Inside the Kassim family's war chamber, Kazaf sat alongside his mother, Alaca, and his maternal grandfather, Suleiman Kassim. The chamber was dimly lit, filled with ancient scrolls and maps spread across the large wooden table. The scent of old parchment and burning incense filled the air, creating an atmosphere of heavy contemplation.

Suleiman, the leader of the prestigious Kassim family, leaned over a large map, his sharp eyes scanning its markings. "Jalwa's stronghold lies within the Shadow Valley," he said, tapping his finger against a mountainous region. "If your father is truly there, then this mission will be more than just a rescue—it will be an act of war."

Kazaf leaned forward, gripping the table's edge. "Then tell me what we need to do."

Suleiman exhaled. "The valley is surrounded by natural defenses—steep cliffs, dense forests, and a dark energy barrier created by Jalwa's men. A direct assault is out of the question."

Kazaf narrowed his eyes. "Then how do we get inside?"

Alaca, who had been silent until now, finally spoke. "I know someone who might help us," she said cautiously.

Kazaf turned to her. "Who?"

"Farhan," Alaca said, her voice carrying the weight of old memories. "He was once a high-ranking cultivator under Jalwa, but he turned against him after witnessing his cruelty. He disappeared years ago, but rumors say he took refuge near the Ghostwood Forest."

Suleiman's expression darkened. "That forest is cursed. Many enter, but few return."

Kazaf smirked. "Sounds like my kind of place."

Suleiman studied his grandson for a long moment before nodding. "Very well. We will prepare. But be warned, Kazaf… this will not be a simple mission. This will be war."

Kazaf clenched his fists. "Then let's start planning."

---

Meanwhile – Asma's Dilemma

The night was cool, the moon casting a pale glow over the Elara Sect's courtyard. Asma sat alone, staring at the sky, her thoughts tangled in a storm of emotions.

Idris was gone.

He had left without looking back. Though she had chosen Kazaf, the weight of that decision pressed heavily on her chest.

"You made the right choice," a familiar voice said behind her.

She turned to see Samir, his arms crossed as he leaned against one of the stone pillars.

"Did I?" she murmured.

Samir stepped forward and sat beside her. "You followed your heart. That's more than most people get to do."

Asma let out a soft breath. "Idris was a good man."

"Yeah, he was," Samir agreed. "But he wasn't the one you loved."

Silence stretched between them.

Samir smirked and nudged her playfully. "Besides, do you really think Kazaf would've let you go that easily?"

She couldn't help but smile. Kazaf was stubborn like that.

But deep down, Asma knew that choosing Kazaf meant stepping into a world of danger. This wasn't just a love story. This was a war, and she was now part of it.

Was she ready?

Asma clenched her fists. She had to be.

---

The Journey Begins

By morning, the Elara Sect was buzzing with rumors. Kazaf, Alaca, and a small team were leaving for Ghostwood Forest.

Among those who volunteered to accompany them were Dulla, Rahim, Samir, Harun, and Asma.

As Kazaf secured his sword and strapped his pack onto his back, Asma approached him.

"You don't have to come," Kazaf told her, his tone quiet but firm.

Asma lifted her chin. "Yes, I do."

Kazaf studied her for a long moment, then nodded.

By sundown, the group set out toward the Ghostwood Forest—and toward whatever dangers awaited them.