The next day dawned with a grim determination as Rudransh, Sundari, and Raivati made their way back to the dark palace. The journey was steeped in tension, each step heavier than the last. The palace loomed ahead, even more ominous than before, shrouded in a thick blanket of darkness. Slithering snakes coiled around the stone pillars, their hissing echoing through the eerie silence. The air was thick with the smell of decay, and the only light came from flickering torches that cast long, ominous shadows on the walls.
As they approached, the man's eyes filled with a mix of hope and darkness. He stood at the entrance, a sinister smile playing on his lips. His gaze fixed on Raivati, who stood with resolve despite her weakness. Her face was pale, but her eyes shone with determination.
A man's voice dripped with malice as he said, "Welcome back," as his voice carried the malice of the man. You've brought with you the bride, I see."
Raivati's heart pounded in her chest, but she squared her shoulders. "I am ready." The man nodded, satisfaction evident in his expression. He waved a hand, and the wedding party advanced, Raivati in the lead.
The man's grin widened, revealing teeth that seemed unnaturally sharp in the dim light. "Excellent. The ceremony will commence shortly. Follow me." Raivati and Sundari took a deep breath and followed the man, her steps quickening as fear bloomed in her stomach. She could feel his gaze on her back, watching her as she made her way to the front of the room. She could feel her heart racing.
Inside the palace, the atmosphere was suffocating. The walls seemed to close in, and the air was thick with the scent of mildew and ancient stone. Sundari helped Raivati prepare for the ceremony, her hands trembling as she adjusted Raivati's bridal attire. Raivati looked beautiful, her kohl-lined eyes shining with anticipation. Sundari felt her heart swell with pride, knowing that Raivati's future was bright. She gave Raivati a small hug, wishing her all the best.
"Are you sure about this, Raivati?" Sundari asked, her voice breaking. "We can still find another way."
Raivati smiled weakly, placing a reassuring hand on Sundari's. "This is the only way, Sundari. It's my choice. I'm doing this for all of us."
Sundari's eyes filled with tears. "I care about you so much, Raivati. You're like a sister to me."
"And you to me," Raivati replied, her voice soft. "Take care of Rudransh. He loves you more than anything."
Sundari nodded, tears streaming down her face. "I promise, Raivati. I promise."
The man's voice boomed through the corridor, echoing off the stone walls. "It's time. Bring her to the ceremonial fire."
Sundari looked up at Raivati, her eyes pleading. Raivati nodded, and Sundari nodded back. With a heavy heart, Raivati stepped into the corridor, ready to face the fire.
Rudransh felt his heart clench as the man's shadow loomed over them. The man dragged Raivati towards the ceremonial fire with a sinister determination, ignoring her faltering steps. The priest, cowed by the man's threatening gaze, began chanting the wedding mantras. Rudransh and Sundari watched with bated breath, their hearts heavy with sorrow and fear.
As the mantras continued, the atmosphere grew even darker. The man's determination to complete the ceremony was palpable, his eyes gleaming with dark obsession. Raivati, though terrified, stood firm, her pure heart shining through her fear. She could feel the strength of the mantras, the chanting of the priests, and the dark energy surrounding them all. She knew she had to stay strong and stay focused, whatever the outcome.
The man took a ring and sliped it onto Raivati's finger. The ring glowed with an eerie light, and Raivati could feel its power. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. The man stepped back and bowed respectfully to her.

YOU ARE READING
Praise The Husband
FantasyPlanning to edit and rewrite. "Your a woman?" he asked, his voice filled with a mix of anger and confusion. "Why did you deceive me into thinking you were a man?" Sundari's heart sank as she realized the weight of her secret had finally caught up wi...