The atmosphere was tense, despite the wedding celebrations filling the air with the scent of marigold and sandalwood. Kanika sat beside Dharmendra, her gaze low, still processing the reality of her marriage. Just as the priest chanted the invocation to begin the rounds, a ripple of silence passed through the crowd as two imposing figures appeared at the mandap.

Adhiraj strode forward with a look of fierce determination in his eyes. His younger brother, Bharat, flanked him, gun drawn and aimed at Dharmendra. Every eye turned toward them, fear and shock written on their faces.