Samrat's POV
Today is the day! Indeed, my wedding day. On this special day, my birthday, I am to marry my beloved Pragya. With Abhi and Dad's assistance, I got dressed, while Mom was preoccupied with the religious preparations. The ceremony is to take place at the bride's residence—a truly joyous occasion. Adorned like royalty, we embarked on our journey to my princess's abode.Upon our arrival at the bride's home, my mother-in-law, Mrs. Simran, a renowned author of five books, conducted the welcome ritual, granting entry to me and my kin. What I admire most about her is her constant courage and her love for reading, traits she shares with her daughter.I was then ushered to sit opposite the priest, who was ready to commence the veneration. Taking my designated seat, with Mom standing behind me, we began a series of rituals. Soon after, the priest called for the bride. Mrs. Simran went to fetch Pragya. As I waited, I pondered on her beauty and grew increasingly restless. Was it my own impatience, or was Mrs. Simran taking an unusually long time? An uneasy sensation crept over me. Why the delay in Pragya's arrival? A wave of restlessness surged through me. Pragya, where are you?Suddenly, my mother-in-law came running downstairs, out of breath. "Samrat, Mr. Suraj, Mrs. Vidiya, Pragya is not in her room," she exclaimed, rushing away from the stage to Mrs. Simran."What are you saying? Where is she?" I yelled. We searched the entire house but found no trace of her.What is going on? Where are you, Pragya? Mom called the police to report the situation. She was content just yesterday. So where could she be now? It must be someone from Mehek's family; they've done this.Furious, I stormed out, got into my car, and drove straight to the Saho mansion. Only Mehek's family could be responsible for this. It has to be revenge because Pragya and I were responsible for Mehek's imprisonment.***
PRAGYA'S POV
I fell to the ground, injuring my back severely. I still hadn't opened my eyes due to the intense pain from the fall. Then, I heard a commanding voice."Kill them all. Show no mercy," the voice commanded, authoritative and menacing. I sensed danger in his tone. Clutching my lower back, I forced my eyes open to identify the source of that commanding voice. As I looked up, I saw the long timber roof. Turning to my right, I saw people lying prostrate, similar to those on the left. I realized I was in a temple and leaned forward to see the deity.What am I witnessing? Who is this man? Why is everyone bowing before him? Is this a dream? What does he think of himself? Just wait, I'll show him."Hello there, who do you think you are? Why are you tormenting these people?" I demanded, hands on my hips. Truth be told, he looks like a toy. His hairstyle, his clothes—why would anyone dress like that? And these people, why do they revere him as if he were a deity?So many questions flooded my mind. I've never seen anything like this, not even in a movie. My mother enjoys historical films, while I'm a fan of sci-fi. Yet, this scene before me is unlike anything from either genre.What's his issue? Why is he staring at me?"Hey, why the stare? I'm taken, so you might want to look elsewhere," I said. But he remained silent. "What, are you mute or something?" At that moment, the person next to him drew a sword and held it to my throat. I was petrified, having never seen such a long and sharp blade. I swallowed hard, fear gripping me. Thankfully, my dear Samrat had taught me how to defend myself in situations like this.It was six years ago that Samrat and I began our relationship. We were attacked by thugs sent by Mehek. Although Samrat fought them off, I was gravely wounded. Afterwards, he taught me self-defense techniques. Now, I'm well-versed in protecting myself."Cheer up, cheer up, body," I said, though such language isn't my norm. A gun was pressed to my forehead. How could a dagger frighten me? Yet, I noticed confusion on the soldier's face and seized the chance. I leaned back, slipping under the sword, and caught his leg, sending him tumbling to the ground. Snatching the dagger from midair, I brandished it just as he had moments before."Don't mess with me," I cautioned him. But then, an army advanced towards me. I lifted my hand, placing the dagger down before them."Stop," commanded that authoritative voice, and everyone froze in place. Turning, I saw him— undeniably charming and graceful."Take her to the jail," ordered the kingly figure. As he spoke, two soldiers grabbed me and dragged me to the jail."Hey, Mr. President, this is unacceptable! This is kidnapping. I'll sue you for this harassment. I need to call Samrat; I demand my lawyer. You can't arrest me like this," I yelled until they threw me into a solitary cell. Initially, I thought it was a joke, a prank. But when a prisoner was beheaded, the gravity of the situation became terrifyingly clear.How did I get here? It's as if someone has thrust me back into the medieval ages. But where exactly am I? How did this happen?I attempted to recall the events. I was meant to attend my wedding ceremony with Samrat. He hadn't arrived, so I went to my mother's office and... the book!That's right, when I opened the book, it drew me inside. I was fighting against it.This suggests that some supernatural force has transported me to this world. But still, where am I? Almighty, please deliver me from this nightmarish realm.