He hesitated before answering. "Yes, but it's through the forest. No one takes that route, especially at this hour. It's dangerous."
Chahat offered him a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Kaka. I'll be fine."
Without waiting for further protest, she tightened her grip on her bag and walked towards the narrow forest path.
Through the Darkened Forest
As soon as she entered the dense woodland, the towering trees swallowed the light, plunging her into eerie darkness despite it being morning. The thick canopy above let in only slivers of sunlight, giving the entire place an unsettling, twilight-like atmosphere.
A chorus of birds echoed through the trees, their calls creating a symphony that was both haunting and mesmerizing. The scent of damp soil and wildflowers clung to the air, rich and intoxicating.
With each step, she felt the earth beneath her bare feet—soft, cold, and uneven. Sharp twigs pricked her soles, making her wince occasionally. She regretted not wearing boots, but she had no choice now. She carefully maneuvered around the roots and stones, focusing on keeping her balance.
A sudden rustling in the bushes made her pause. Her heartbeat quickened, but she forced herself to stay calm. Probably just an animal. Nothing to be scared of.
She exhaled sharply and continued forward, walking briskly.
Despite the slight fear creeping in, she couldn't deny the beauty of the forest. The way the mist curled around the trees, the gentle rustling of leaves—it was enchanting. A beauty laced with danger.
After what felt like an eternity, she spotted the end of the trail. The thick foliage thinned, revealing a large wrought-iron gate ahead. Beyond it, a magnificent structure stood tall against the misty sky—Hill Valley College.
She had made it.
Chahat sighed in relief, wiping the thin sheen of sweat from her forehead despite the cold air. She stepped forward, pushing the gate open.
The moment she entered, she knew something was off.
Before she could even process what was happening, a sharp sting exploded across her cheek.
A slap.
For a second, silence stretched around her.
Then, before the pain could even register fully, she retaliated. Her palm struck back with equal force, the sound echoing across the courtyard.
A gasp rippled through the small crowd of students gathered nearby.
Chahat clenched her jaw, her eyes locking onto the girl who had just slapped her. She was dressed in ripped jeans and a cotton shirt, exuding a rebellious, tom-boyish air.
The girl blinked in surprise, rubbing her cheek. Then, to Chahat's bewilderment, she grinned.
"Oh my, my," another voice chimed in. A girl in extravagant branded clothing raised an eyebrow, watching the scene unfold with amusement. Two other girls stood beside her, awaiting her orders like obedient puppies.
The tom-boyish girl chuckled. "Damn. Didn't expect that." She extended her hand toward Chahat.
"That was your welcome slap—part of senior ragging. But, wow, you hit back. I like that."
Chahat narrowed her eyes, her cheek still burning. "I don't take nonsense from anyone."