TANGLED IN THE SHADOWS

Part -23

After some research, Jadeja gathered everyone in the living room. "We need to go to Mahendipur Balaji Temple in Rajasthan. It's known for its powerful rituals against malevolent spirits. It will take us at least a day to get there, so pack what you need."

Krunal, concerned, asked, "Shouldn't we tell Dhoni? He deserves to know."

Jadeja shook his head firmly. "No, I don’t want to drag Mahi into this mess. He has a bright future ahead of him, and I can’t risk it."

Suddenly, a piercing scream echoed through the house. It was Shubman. They rushed to his room and found Ishan vomiting blood all over.

"We have no choice. We need to get him to Dhoni's clinic," Jadeja said urgently.

At the clinic, Dhoni quickly examined Ishan. "He's okay for now, but he needs rest. What happened at the temple with the pandit?"

Jadeja tried to brush it off, "Nothing much, just some bad luck..."

Dhoni grabbed Jadeja's hand, looking him dead in the eye. "Don't lie to me, Ravindra. Tell me what really happened."

Jadeja sighed, defeated. "The pandit was killed by the Shakchunni. We're planning to go to Mahendipur Balaji Temple in Rajasthan for help."

Dhoni's expression hardened. "I'm coming with you."

Jadeja shook his head. "No, Mahi. It's too dangerous. If something happens to you..."

Dhoni interrupted, "If anyone gets injured, I can help. I can't be at peace knowing you're out there fighting these entities alone."

Jadeja's voice trembled, tears welling up in his eyes. "But what if something happens to you? How can I live without you?"

Dhoni hugged him tightly. "I'll be okay. We face this together."

Jadeja reluctantly nodded. "Alright, let's get ready for this unpredictable journey."

As they prepared to leave, Krunal approached Rahul and Hardik. "Make sure you pack enough food and water. It’s going to be a long trip."

Rahul nodded, "We'll take care of it."

Hardik looked at Rahul, worry etched on his face. "Are you sure you're up for this?"

Rahul squeezed his hand. "As long as we're together, we can handle anything."

Shubman, still shaken, whispered to Ishan, "Are you feeling any better?"

Ishan nodded weakly. "I'll be fine. We just need to stay strong."

Jadeja gathered everyone in the living room one last time before they left. "Remember, we need to stick together. No matter what happens, we can’t let these entities divide us. We're stronger together."

Dhoni placed a reassuring hand on Jadeja's shoulder. "We'll get through this, Ravindra. I promise."Jadeja nodded, feeling a small spark of hope.

The drive was long and filled with an eerie silence. As night fell, they took turns driving and keeping watch. Every rustle of leaves, every distant sound made them jumpy.

At a rest stop, they gathered around for a quick meal. Dhoni handed Jadeja a cup of tea. "Remember our school days? You were always so fearless."

Jadeja smiled weakly. "I’m still the same, just with more baggage."

Dhoni looked into his eyes. "You’re not alone, Jadeja. Not anymore."