TARA : Beyond The Time ( Under Editing)

chapter -1

It might take a year.
It might take a day.
But what's meant to be
will find it's way .

I was sitting in my cab, on my way to a newly discovered archaeological site, lost in thoughts about my life. The rhythmic hum of the engine and the blur of passing scenery seemed to echo my tumultuous journey.

Once, I was a girl full of mischief, running around my house, living my dreams. My life was a picture of a sweet, happy family. My parents, always supportive and loving, encouraged my every whim. My childhood was filled with laughter, adventures, and dreams of exploring the world. But when my parents died in a plane crash, reality hit me hard. The mischievous girl I used to be was lost somewhere in the aftermath of grief and loss.

It was my 13th birthday when it happened. We were supposed to celebrate together, but instead, I was left with the heartbreaking news. Thanks to my grandmother, I was able to overcome the tragedy and become who I am now. She was my rock, providing the love and stability I so desperately needed. A few months after my 18th birthday, my grandmother passed away too, as if she had been waiting for me to turn into an adult. My mother used to say, "Everything that happens to us happens for a reason." Indeed, all these events helped me become mature and independent.

However, a lingering feeling of loneliness remained in my heart. I have always been fascinated by historical monuments since childhood.

After my parents' death, there is hardly a palace, archaeological site, or ruin I haven't visited. Spending time in these places makes me feel happy, safe, and at home. The joy I find there temporarily replaces the loneliness in my heart.

Today, I was on my way to visit a newly discovered archaeological site. It's said that they found many artifacts estimated to be from the early 15th century. With the help of my father's best friend, who is an archaeologist, I managed to secure a visit to this site. The anticipation of seeing the remnants of a bygone era filled me with excitement and curiosity.

"Here you are," my late father's best friend,said with a warm smile as I stepped out of the cab. He had taken care of me since my parents' death, almost like a second father.

"Tara, listen carefully," he said, his tone turning serious. "No outsider is allowed here, but I'm allowing you because of your constant requests. Please be careful, and if anyone asks why you're here, just say you're my family visiting me, okay?" I nodded in response, feeling a mixture of gratitude and excitement as I started exploring the site.

I wandered around, marveling at the ancient artifacts and structures. The site was a treasure trove of history, with intricately carved statues, crumbling walls, and artifacts that hinted at the lives of those who once lived here. Suddenly, I saw a cave-like structure. My uncle had told me not to touch anything, but my curiosity got the better of me.

I entered the cave, despite his warnings. It was dark, but a bright ray of light was coming from a crack in the wall of the cave, even though it was already evening.Before I could touch anything or explore further, I felt the ground shaking. I looked around, but there were no signs of an earthquake or landslide. The weird feeling didn't stop, so I decided to leave the cave. But before I could, I fell backward toward the crack.

I closed my eyes in fear, and everything went dark. The last thing I remembered was falling onto something hard. I didn't get to see what it was since my eyes were closed.

When I woke up, I found myself in a strange tent. I couldn't move because my entire body ached. Everything around me seemed odd and unfamiliar. What had happened? Where was I? Where was my uncle? The tent was adorned with unfamiliar objects and smelled of herbs and incense.

I was lost in my thoughts when someone entered the tent. It was a middle-aged woman with kind eyes and a gentle demeanor. She looked at me with a mix of curiosity and concern.

________AUTHOR'S NOTE_____________

I will be using different font style to show language barrier such as 'bold for English' , 'Italian for when characters speak to themselves' and normal font will will be taken as hindi/language of 15th century.