The Pact of Shadows

Setting:
A remote village in UP, nestled deep in the forest, celebrates an ancient festival called Bhaya Mahotsav-a night when the veil between the living and the dead is said to thin.

Premise:
Every year, the villagers wear masks and dance around bonfires to "confuse" the spirits that roam free. Outsiders are forbidden from attending. But this year, a group of urban anthropology students sneaks in to document the rituals... and discovers the festival is not symbolic-it's a pact.

Horror Elements:
Masked Revelers: The masks aren't just tradition-they're protection. Anyone unmasked is "claimed."

Living Sacrifice: One villager is chosen each year to "host" a spirit. The selection is random... or so they say.

Time Distortion: As midnight approaches, time begins to warp. The students find themselves stuck in a loop-each cycle more grotesque than the last.

The Forest Watches: Trees whisper names. Shadows move against the firelight. Something ancient is waking.