The sun dipped low over Lahore, bathing the labyrinthine gullies of the Walled City in a warm golden glow. Rehan, Aisha, Sameer, and Zara wandered through the alleys of Androon Lahore, their footsteps echoing softly amid the vibrant energy that pulsed through the ancient streets. Vendors called out their wares, children's laughter rang through the air, and the faint, spicy scent of street food mingled with the melody drifting from a nearby radio—"Hum tere pyaar mein saara aalam kho baithey hain ....." The familiar song wrapped around them like a comforting thread, tying past and present together.
They sipped chai from a street vendor, voices low as they discussed their next escape room challenge, but the city seemed to have its own plans for them. As they turned a corner, a fruit vendor's animated conversation caught Zara's attention. She slowed her pace, curiosity pulling her closer.
The vendor glanced around nervously before leaning in, his voice barely above a whisper. "Adventure chahiye?" he asked. "Phir suno. Ek jagah hai—Shiv Kothi. Woh haveli purani hai, lekin jo andar jaate hain, sab wapas nahi aate. Log kehte hain wahan kuch raaz chhupe hain."
Rehan's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Did you hear that? Shiv Kothi—exactly the kind of mystery we've been waiting for."
Aisha frowned, a shadow of doubt crossing her face. "But he said people don't come back. Are we sure this is a risk worth taking?"
Sameer shrugged with a grin. "Come on, we love puzzles. This is right up our alley."
Zara folded her arms thoughtfully. "If we do this, we need to be ready—snacks, water, flashlights—the whole kit."
A mix of thrill and apprehension swirled through the group as they gathered their supplies, their minds alive with the secrets Shiv Kothi promised to reveal. Little did they know, stepping through that old haveli's door would change everything—and the real adventure was just beginning...