Chapter 12

In the cold, dimly lit corridors of Pathal-Lok, Nakul prepared for the test that would determine his place within the organization. He had come to understand the members of Pathal-Lok: like him, most were victims of injustice, seeking retribution in a world that had turned its back on them.

It was during this period that Nakul encountered Shurpanaka, a high-ranking member known for her formidable skills and cold demeanor. Her code name, a reference to a mythological figure, seemed incongruous with her striking appearance.

One day, while observing the members in the training area, Nakul laughed audibly upon hearing her name. Without warning, Shurpanaka approached him, her movements swift and precise. Before Nakul could react, he found himself on the ground, overpowered by her strength. As he lay there, stunned, he realized the depth of skill and power that the members with code names possessed.

After the training session, Nakul approached Shurpanaka cautiously. "Mrs. Shurpanaka," he began, his voice tinged with a mix of respect and curiosity. "Why are you here? You are beautiful, gorgeous even. With your figure, you could become a model or an actress."

Shurpanaka turned to face him, her green eyes devoid of emotion, her face pale as if carved from marble. "Beauty and fame are fleeting, Nakul," she replied, her voice steady. "They are illusions that distract from the harsh truths of life. I am here because the world outside failed me, just as it failed you."

Nakul, intrigued, pressed on. "But there's more to your story, isn't there? How did you end up in Pathal-Lok?"

Shurpanaka hesitated, then began to speak. "My life was once very different. I had dreams, aspirations... But one catastrophic event changed everything. I was wronged, deeply wronged, and the system that was supposed to protect me turned its back. Pathal-Lok offered me a chance to take control, to fight against the injustices of the world."

Nakul listened intently, his own experiences echoing in her words. "And you gave up everything for this cause?"

"Everything," she affirmed. "In Pathal-Lok, we shed our past identities. We become part of something greater, a force that seeks to balance the scales of justice in a world where the scales are often tipped."

Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Ravan, the enigmatic executive overseeing Nakul's test. Ravan's presence was commanding, his eyes scanning the room with an air of authority.

"Nakul, your test begins tomorrow," Ravan announced. "Prepare yourself. Your performance will determine your future in Pathal-Lok."

As Ravan left, Nakul turned back to Shurpanaka. "What's Ravan like?" he asked.

"Ravan is a leader, a strategist," Shurpanaka replied. "He embodies the ideals of Pathal-Lok. His decisions are final, and his word is law here."

Nakul nodded, understanding the reverence in her tone. The evening air was heavy with the anticipation of the coming day. The test would not only be a trial of his skills but also a challenge to his resolve.