Adhura ~ an incomplete mission

Chapter 1

Akriti's sleep was disturbed when she heard the sound of a bell echoing through the corridors of her hostel. She groaned and reluctantly opened her eyes, realizing that it was already morning. Being a night owl, she was never a morning person and despised the idea of waking up early. However, she knew she had no choice but to get up and start her day.

"I hate mornings"she grumbled and
with a heavy sigh, she dragged herself out of bed and went about her daily chores. She quickly freshened up, brushed her teeth, and got dressed. As she made her way to the college, she couldn't help but feel a sense of dread for the day ahead.

"Hi Akriti" She heard her name being called, it was her bestfriend Ananya

"Hi Anu" Akriti told and sat down beside her

"What happened? you look dull" Ananya asked concerned

"Nothing, I just hate mornings"Akriti mumbled to which Ananya laughed

"Zyada has mat" Akriti threatend making Ananya laugh more

"Tujhe kya pasand hai woh bol"Ananya told making Akriti scoff

"Kuch nahi, mujhe kuch pasand nahi hai" Akriti groaned

Soon, the faculty arrived and gathered all the students in the auditorium. Akriti took her seat, still feeling groggy and disinterested. The faculty members exchanged glances, seemingly aware of the students' lack of enthusiasm. They knew they had to do something to ignite their interest.

"Good morning lovely students, today we have an exciting announcement to make. As you all are studying in the final year, you all are required to complete projects"Said one of the lecturers.

The auditorium buzzed with excitement as the professor explained the details.

"Akriti, see we are finally going to get projects"Ananya said enthusiastically

"Yes Anu, I'm so happy. Finally we're going to get projects" Chirped Akriti

"Your project is to research about the historical buildings" said the lecturer making all cheer

"And as the part of project everyone must shift to the Raichand mansion tomorrow and start working on your projects" the lecturer said and all the students were now on cloud nine, as they were excited to live in the mansion.

"But why Raichand mansion? And why should we stay there?"asked one boy, making all heads turn towards him.

"Raichand mansion is known for its rich history, it was built by the great Raghav Raichand ji in early 1800s, he was known for his kindness. There are many hidden stories about the mansion. And you all have an opportunity to discover it. So, what better place to explore than the magnificent Raichand mansion?"

"And Raichands are kind enough to let you all stay in their mansion, because they think by staying there you will be able to understand the project more and compared to other places, Raichand mansion is safer to the students" lecturer said to the boy making him nod meekly

"I still don't like the idea of this"he mumbled

"What?"Akriti asked to the boy

"Nothing" he shook his head making Akriti shrug

"Ayaansh are you alright?"Ananya asked to the boy

"Yes" he gave a tight lipped smile

"Does anyone have doubts?" All students shook their heads

"Ok, you all can go home and pack your luggages"lecturers announced and all students dispersed.

"I'm so excited" akriti sang making Ayaansh and Ananya smile

Ayaansh and Ananya were cousins

"Okay drama queen go and pack your bags" Ayaansh said

"Yes bye, see you tomorrow "akriti ran making them laugh at her antics

"Are you seriously alright Ansh?" Ananya asked being concerned

"I'm not, okay!"Ayaansh frustratingly said rubbing his face

"Did you not know about this?"she asked

"No, and if I would have known this before, I would have stopped it"he said making Ananya sigh.

Here, Akriti started packing her bags and was happy unknown to the fact that their visit would unravel a mystery that had been hidden for years.