In the city of Shantidhar, even shadows have laws.

Chhayaketu, a Rakshasa assassin bound by oath and faith, has lived his life in the darkness between justice and survival. In a city where devotion hides cruelty and order masks decay, he serves the Guild of the Last Exhale — an order of killers who believe death itself is a sacred offering.

But when a forbidden contract targets a very important person of the city, Chhayaketu uncovers truths buried beneath centuries of silence. His choices will not only test his loyalty, but awaken something long forgotten in the world beyond Shantidhar’s walls.

As bells toll and blood sanctifies stone, destiny stirs in places unseen — setting into motion events that will one day shake all of Vastumandal.

Shadows of Shantidhar is a dark fantasy novella steeped in Indian culture, exploring faith, guilt, and the quiet rebellion of the outcast.

The first story in A Vastumandal Chronicle — where every shadow has a story, and every oath has a cost.