To change the destiny

The humid Varanasi air hung heavy, clinging to Shivani's skin as she walked, the drone of traffic a dull hum in her ears. "Another suffocating day," she muttered, quickening her pace towards the sanctuary of her apartment. Tomorrow, Saturday, promised an escape. She dreamt of quiet solitude, perhaps a visit to a historical site, a place where the echoes of ancient tales might whisper.

Morning light, barely touching the horizon, found Shivani already awake, performing her usual routine: meditation, a walk, then a purifying bath followed by pooja. The smell of incense mingled with the brewing tea. "Where to go today?" she mused, sipping her tea. Shopping was out. Adventure? Yes. But where? Her archaeologist friend, Yashika, would know. A quick call, a cryptic suggestion of a cave, and Shivani was off, car keys in hand, heart thrumming with anticipation. The winding road led her to a hill, steep and precarious. The cave entrance, high above, beckoned. As she reached the summit, a sudden, violent gust of wind stole her balance. A scream, a sickening lurch, and then... nothing.