Chapter 17

In the clandestine world of Pathal-Lok, Nakul and Mihira maintained a facade of having moved past their quest for revenge. To the outside world, and even to many within Pathal-Lok, they appeared as if they had found closure. But beneath the surface, a tumult of emotions and unfinished business simmered.

After their meeting with Ravan, the enigmatic leader of Pathal-Lok, Mihira and Nakul retired to their separate quarters. Mihira, however, found herself restless, her thoughts fixated on the politician they had kidnapped. She knew that mere arrest wouldn't suffice; his influence and resources could easily grant him freedom again. The thirst for true justice, or perhaps revenge, gnawed at her.

Under the cover of night, Mihira silently made her way to the chamber where the politician was being held. The man was bound and gagged, his eyes wide with fear. Mihira's heart raced, a mix of anger and determination fueling her steps.

As she reached for the tools laid out on a nearby table, intent on exacting her version of justice, the room's door swung open. Ravan stood there, his expression a blend of surprise and understanding.

"Mihira, do you realize what you're doing?" Ravan's voice was stern, yet there was a hint of empathy. "If you sought revenge, you should have come to me. You know the objectives of our organization."

Mihira hesitated, her resolve wavering under Ravan's gaze. "Yes, I'm sorry," she stammered, the reality of her actions dawning on her.

Ravan, observing her internal struggle, picked up the hammer from her hand and set it aside. He then handed her a small pocket knife. "While we seek justice, we also understand the need for personal closure. If this is what you need, proceed. But remember, we do not act on impulse. Our actions are calculated."

Mihira accepted the knife, her emotions a whirlwind of conflict. Ravan's words echoed in her mind, a reminder of the fine line between justice and vengeance.

As Ravan turned to leave, Mihira called out, "Please, don't tell Nakul about this. I'm not sure how he'd react."

Ravan chuckled, pausing at the door. "Sensitive, him? You two are more alike than you realize. You both carry your scars, your desires for justice. In that, you are a formidable pair."

Mihira frowned, puzzled by his words. "Sir, I don't understand."

Ravan's smile was enigmatic. "In time, you will. For now, focus on what you must do." With that, he left the room, leaving Mihira in a state of contemplation.

Alone with the politician, Mihira grappled with her emotions. The knife in her hand felt heavy, a symbol of the choice she faced. She thought of Nakul, of their shared journey, and of the path they had chosen in Pathal-Lok.

The chapter closes with Mihira standing over the politician, the weight of her decision bearing down on her. She was at a crossroads, torn between the desire for revenge and the principles she still held dear. In the quiet of the chamber, Mihira's choice would define not just the fate of the man before her, but also the course of her own soul.