Prologue
In a remote Indian village, there stands an almost forgotten ancient mansion. The villagers call it “Haveli,” yet few dare to approach it. Its entrance is adorned with brass-inlaid teak doors, deeply etched by the passage of time. The brass glimmers in the sunlight, as if narrating a story long forgotten.
This village is nestled in the hilly regions of southern India, surrounded by dense forests and winding streams. The air is filled with the moist scent of earth and the rich fragrance of vegetation. Mornings are often veiled in a golden mist that envelops the entire village. The villagers lead a simple and serene life, farming the land, raising livestock, and adhering to the traditions and customs passed down through generations.
However, the presence of Haveli adds a mysterious and eerie touch to this tranquil village. Haveli is a centuries-old mansion, blending Indian traditional architecture with colonial influences. Its walls are built from thick stone blocks, adorned with exquisite carvings and decorative patterns, now weathered and covered with moss. The mansion’s windows are decorated with stained glass, and when sunlight filters through them, the entire mansion is filled with a kaleidoscope of colors.
The villagers have a complex relationship with Haveli. On one hand, they are filled with awe and curiosity for this ancient structure; on the other hand, they are also fearful of Haveli’s mystery and legends. Legend has it that Haveli was once the residence of a wealthy landlord, who, along with his family, mysteriously disappeared one night and was never seen again. The villagers believe that Haveli harbors some evil power, and that night’s events were the result of this malevolent force.
This legend is passed down orally among the villagers, even becoming a topic of conversation during village festivals and gatherings. Some elderly villagers claim to have witnessed strange phenomena at Haveli, such as eerie lights flickering in the windows at midnight, or low murmurs emanating from deep within the mansion. Although these stories are difficult to verify, they undoubtedly add more mystery and fear to Haveli.
The main gate of Haveli is particularly striking. It is a massive wooden door, inlaid with brass decorations, deeply etched by time. The brass glimmers in the sunlight, but this light is not warm; instead, it gives a cold and oppressive feeling. The brass door knocker is oddly shaped, carved with ancient symbols and patterns, which seem to have a special meaning, yet the villagers have never been able to decipher them.
The steps leading to the gate are also made of stone, overgrown with weeds and moss, appearing dilapidated and desolate. Whenever someone approaches Haveli, the stones on the steps seem to emit a low groan, as if resisting the intrusion of outsiders. The brass door knocker has never been knocked on, because no one dares to touch the door, let alone enter the interior of Haveli.
Despite the unease caused by Haveli, the villagers have gradually grown accustomed to its presence. Life in the village remains peaceful, with work beginning at sunrise and ending at sunset. When the sun sets, the villagers gather together to talk about the day’s harvest and interesting events. The village at night is exceptionally quiet, only the chirping of insects and the rustling of the wind break the silence of the night.
However, behind this peaceful life, the mystery of Haveli still looms large. Whenever strangers come to the village, they are always drawn to Haveli, inquiring about its legends and history. The villagers look at these strangers with a complex gaze, a mix of warning and anticipation. They know that these strangers may uncover the secrets of Haveli, but they might also bring greater disaster.
In summary, Haveli occupies an important place in the history and life of the village. Its mystery and legends are not just an old story; they are also a metaphor, a symbol of the unknown and fear. The villagers live in awe and fear, guarding this ancient secret, waiting for the day when someone can reveal its truth.