THE QUEST - PART 4

                             CONTINUED FROM 'THE QUEST - PART 3'

     Rishab had anticipated that he will have to pay a huge price for his late arrival at the apartment. But to his relief came the boys with their doubts with regard to their studies. By the time Rishab went to sleep he had tons of thoughts storming his mind with regard to Sikandar's family and life in general. He was aware that as Jolly the Londoner, Rishab could put an end to Sikandar's financial problems; provide him a better home to live in; and help his father with better medical treatment. All that he had to do was make a phone call to London. But sadly this was against the rules of the Quest. Rishab resolved that he will help the kind man's family some day in the future.

     The 4 boys at the apartment were done with their semester exams and were now waiting for the results as it would take a month's time to arrive. As they were sure that they had performed well, they were anticipating good results. Their tuition with their Genius Watch Man continued on a regular basis.
"Rishab, I think you should become a Mathematician," said Rahul.
"A Maths professor," said Sameer.
"No, an English teacher!" said Varun with excitement.
"A banker perhaps," said Tausif and asked, "What is it that you want to pursue Rishab? The watch man's job doesn't suit you one bit."
Tausif's question took Rishab back to London to the CART Financial Company that he owned. He fondly reminiscences the time when he worked with his best pal Vicky Goodwill whom he missed very much.
"As an Investment Banker I suppose," he fondly said.
"WOW! Hey can we be your partners in your firm?" asked Sameer jokingly.
Laughing at this Rishab said "Sure, why not! But I want you boys to pursue a career of your choice."
"But I am interested in Cricket...," declared Tausif, and proceeded telling him in a meek voice, "...but my father wants me to manage his business."
"Champion, it is up to you to convince your father. You are well aware I am in no condition to help you in this regard," said Rishab very emphatically. He further addressed the four of them and said, "You boys either make your passion your profession or your profession as your passion. If you compromise, it could lead you to failure. Wish you boys all the best!"
Rishab had built a special bond with the boys in the past 2 months. The boys loved him equally and looked up to him as their elder brother.

     Back at the Edinburgh Museum, Mr. Smith who was busy examining a stone ornament that was recently excavated swore as he was distracted by the sound of the landline telephone ringing which sat on his table. When he received the call he heard Vicky Goodwill's voice, Jolly the Questor's good friend. It was no surprise for Smith when he was bombarded with a lot of questions by Vicky about Jolly's were about.
"When will Jolly return? Is he alright? Which part of India is he in? Can I go see him?" were a few questions that Vicky asked anxiously.
Having gone through worse episodes of such question answer sessions in the past with the relatives of the previous Questors, Smith in a very composed manner replied, "In the first place Mr. Goodwill, your friend Mr. Joshi is absolutely fine. The coordinators of the Quest have been keeping a keen eye on his where about. He will surely return once he is done with the Quest or if he decides to quit midway. He seems to be persistent in his efforts. No one except for the Quest coordinators will be allowed to contact him in any manner. Nor are we supposed to let anyone know about his where about. I'll intimate you as soon as he returns. Now if you may please relax and stop worrying about your friend and allow me to continue with my work I would be grateful to you," saying this he dropped the receiver in a hurry and got back to the half examined ornament.
It had been a little more than two months since Jolly had been away in India. Vicky who managed the CART Financial Company single handedly waited for his pal anxiously. After all Vicky was Jolly's only family and friend.

     Back in Ahmadabad Rishab spoke to Sikandar about the boys, time and again. So much so he wanted Sikandar to meet them in person. Rishab had also developed an attachment towards Sikandar's family and would take the liberty to visit them very often. In the 3rd month of Rishab's career at the hotel he found Sikandar's father's health deteriorate to an extent that he was on the brink of moving on to the after life any moment. No medicines worked on his aling body. One afternoon a phone call giving the news of his Father's demise summoned Sikandar home. As Rishab was not given the liberty to leave along with his friend he had to stay back at the hotel. On his arrival at Sikandar's place in the evening, Rishab witnessed the morose environment that bore sullen faces. Words failed to come out of Rishab, but he managed to stay back till the body was taken away for cremation. This heart breaking event took him back to the day when he had found himself crying uncontrollably when his parents dead bodies were brought home after their ship had capsised at the English Channel. With these thoughts in his mind Rishab proceeded towards the apartment to take charge of his night duties. As expected Mrs. Sadvi screamed, hollowed, cursed and threatened the watch man for his exceedingly late arrival. But as Rishab was drowned in his sorrowful world, for the very first time he stood in front of the malicious lady as transparent as the wind, not letting any of her words affect him but pass through without any obstruction. His only solace were the students, as he was forced to divert his attention towards teaching them.

     At the hotel Risha executed his work in a mournful silence for the next 3 days. The only thing that cheered him up was the interaction with the college boys at the apartment. The evening of the 3rd day was one of a kind. The watch man's seating area was decorated with ribbons, balloons and beautiful glittering stenciled alphabets worded 'THANK YOU' hung on the wall. Tausif, Sameer, Rahul and Vikram waited for their favorite mentor anxiously. The boys mothers were seated in the waiting area and chatted away happily.
"THANK YOU VERY MUCH!" the boys shouted in unison as Rishab entered the building. He was thrilled when he learnt that he boys had passed their semester exam in flying colours. There was a little celebration on this occasion. Sameer'a and Vikram's fathers had joined the event. The boys mothers had cooked some yummy treats. All of them conveyed their gratitude to Rishab and wished him well. The children playing in the apartment premises without hesitation joined the party.
The fathers who were present handed over some money to Rishab and so did Rahul's mother. Rishab very reluctantly accepted the money only after the parents coxed him to do so. The boys later on joyfully sat down for their lessons. Rishab very proudly and with excitement started his evening class once he was free from his watch man's duties. But still he was forced to excuse himself every now and then to man the vehicles. During one of his breaks he manned Mr. Khan's car and was busy with the others. When he returned to the boys he saw them standing around Mr. Khan who was joyfully congratulating them and chatting away. When he say Rishab, asking him to come closer he handed over a small envelop to him with his usual stern look on his face.
"What's this Sir?" asked the watch man in surprise.
"You better take it, if not you will be thrown out of your job. Do you understand?" growled Mr. Khan.
When Rishab opened the envelop he saw there was money in it.
"You boys better continue with your studies. I am sure you will all do very well from now on wards." saying this Mr. Khan happily moved towards the stare case.
"Sir, I didn't expect this," Rishab called out after Mr. Khan.
Mr. Khan stopping in his place with a smile on his face for the very first time, turned back and said, "It's all yours, keep it. You have earned it," and happily jogged up the stairs.
Rishab was actually startled when he realised that he was given double the amount than the other parents had given. If the mighty Ego of Jagganath Joshi would have risen at this moment saying that he was a millionaire and that he was holding peanuts, Rishab would have gladly hurled the Ego from the roof top of Star Towers building. But instead he happily pocketed the money thinking about the cell phone and the laptop that he was yet to purchase.

     The next morning Rishab returned to the hotel in an upbeat mood. He shared his joy with his now best pal Sikandar. That mid morning Rishab was summoned by Mr. Ali, the Hotel Manager. He was taken aback when he learnt that people from the Ahmadabad Government Hospital had come to see him and that they wanted to talk to him personally. Rishab wondered what this was all about! He ran to the Restaurant which looked partially empty to meet the visitors who were waiting for him seated at the far end of the room. As he started moving towards them, he was happy to recognise a familiar face that was smiling at him. Shankar, the Quest Coordinator greeted Rishab with a firm hand shake and introduced him to Meena and Mathew, his colleagues and coordinators of the Quest.
"Mr. Joshi, Hearty Congratulations on successfully completing the first level of the Quest. It's time for you to pack your bags and move ahead with your expidition," announced Shankar enthuisastically shaking the Questor's hand.
It took some time for the matter to sink into Rishab aka Jolly. With a confused look on his face he inquired if he had earned the Treasure. For which Shankar made it clear to him saying that he had a long way to go to earn it. Jolly was let known by Mathew that he could leave with them this very moment as alternative arrangements were made to fill his post at the hotel and the apartment. Jolly was perplexed on listening to his words and kindly said, "I can't leave now. There's work to be done. Can I see all of you tonight?" At this Shankar let Jolly know where they would meet; he also told him that Meena and Mathew will accompany him to his next destination to continue his Quest only if he wishes to. As this was a total surprise for Jolly he was in a dilema whether he was to rejoice his success or lament the parting from his new found friends. Moreover he had now got adjusted to his new life. With a hazed mind he took leave from the Coordinators promising them he would see them tonight.
"What a drastic transformation! Where did the Jolly whom I had met three months ago vanish?!" wondered Shankar looking at the now sober and humble Rishab.

     Rishab very reluctantly, with much hesitation broke the news of his immediate departure to Sikandar. Sikandar was very unhappy on learning this as he had grown fond of Rishab. Rishab was further smothered by questions by the very concerned Senior Room Boy. Sadly Rishab failed to answer them. He finally blurted out saying, "I will keep in touch with you. Anyways I have your home address and phone number." 
"But you don't have a phone. I kept asking you to buy atleast a simple phone but you were bent on buying the latest model," retaliated Sikandar with a sense of annoyance. At this expression, Rishab remembered the money he had saved to buy the phone and the Laptop. Promising Sikandar he would drop by his home in the evening to bid good bye to his family, he retired to completing his day's work. Rishab stayed back in the hotel a little longer in the evening, bidding farewell to the Manager, the room boys and the building watchman. Finally when he walked up to Sikandar's home, on looking at Sikandar's mother he knew she was well informed about his departure.
"It's sad that you are leaving. Please keep in mind that you have a home and a family in Ahmedbad," saying this she handed over a glass of warm milk to him.
"Maa, your family has been very kind to me. Thank you! I must have forgotten my past, but I will not forget all of you. I promise!" saying this he gulped down the milk in a hurry.
Sikandar who was preparing to leave for his evening job joined the duo. Rishab withdrew a brown colour medium sized envelop from his pocket which had the words written, "TO SIKANDAR AND FAMILY. BEST WISHES, RISHAB," and handed it to Sikandar, saying, "It's a parting gift from me to you. You can have a look at it only after I leave."
"Thank you! But what is this?", by the time the last two words were out of Sikandar's mouth, Rishab had embraced him in a tight hug. Bidding good bye to the Mother and son, he left the building in a hurry. When Sikandar opened the envelop he was astonished to see a bundle of cash amounted Forty Thousand Rupees. It also had a hand written note from Rishab that read, "HOPE THIS MONEY LOWERS SOME OF YOUR BURDEN. PLEASE DON'T THINK ABOUT REPAYING THEM TO ME. I LOOK FORWARD TO HELPING YOU IN THE FUTURE TO REPAY THE MONEY TO THE INVESTORS. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR HELP AND SUPPORT. RISHAB!"
Sikandar was sure Rishab had gone mad. It looked like he had presented him every single penny that he had earned over the three months. Sikandar ran out to the street looking for his friend, but he was no where in sight. Moreover Sikandar didn't know where to go looking for him. With a heavy heart he returned home. The once upon a time demon that Rishab was had eventually turned into an angle.

     Rishab ran to the apartment to meet the boys one last time and convey his farewell. It was already dark when he walked into the apartment premises. He saw Tausif and Sameer talking to the new Night Watch Man. As soon as they saw Rishab, Tausif ran to him while Sameer called for Rahul and Vikram who were sitting in the waiting area.
"Why?..., Where?..., How long?..., When?...," where a few questions Rishab was attacked with savagely by the boys. Tausif was in perticular driven to tears when Rishab very reluctantly narrated the tall tale as told to Sikandar of him going away with the staff members of the Ahmadabad Government Hospital for further treatment to a different city.
"I know you boys are doing well in your studies and you will be able to achive all that you wish for in your life. Be confident and courageous. Let no one deviate you from your desired goal. Wish you boys all the best!" as he spoke the last few words, Tausif gave Rishab a hug and said with tears trickling down his eyes, "I will miss you!"
"Keep in touch brother!" said Sameer;
"I will meet you again in the future. I cant forget all of you," said Rishab assuringly;
"Do let us know when you are in Ahmadabad, we'll all meet," said Rahul;
"You are the best teacher we have ever had," said Vikram.
By then Tausif had run up to his flat and bought a parting gift for Rishab. When he presented it to him, with a sense of amazement Rishab told the boy, "but this is your favorite cricket ball. I think you should keep it." But Tausif insisted Rishab accept it. Rishab saying "Thank you!" accepted it and left the apartment premises reluctantly. He had a lump in his throat and soon tears streamed down his eyes. A thought of reluctance to part from some of the most wonderful people he had ever met flickered in his mind. Penniless that he was, he had no remorse in his heart but instead was filled with peace and contentment. For the very first time in his life Rishab aka Jolly had unconditionally given away his money, knowledge, time and many more priceless things to total strangers. He had started experiencing the joy of giving. He looked forward for opportunities to selflessly give all that he could. But as for now his goal was to complete the Quest and earn the priceless 'Tresure Trove'.

                    ***CONTINUED IN 'THE QUEST - PART 5'***

THE QUEST - PART 3

                                     CONTINUED FROM 'THE QUEST - PART 2'

     The next evening, Tausif who had just returned home from his cricket practice, handed over the Accountancy book to Rishab who was manning the parking area. At 10 at night when Rishab rang the flat door bell, the teenager himself opened the door as he was anxiously waiting for the book.
"See me when ever you are free tomorrow evening. Accountancy is a piece of cake." said Rishab with a wink to the surprised Tausif as he handed over the book to him.
"I will," he replied as he heard his father call him and hurriedly shut the door.

     The next day in the evening, Tausif along with his friend Sameer who studied in the same class and lived in the same apartment, went to meet Rishab along with the Accountancy book in his hand. As usual the watch man was busy with his chores.
Tausif mockingly asked him, "Masterji when will you start the class? I have to be back home before my father returns."
"Give me a few minutes, I'll be there as soon as I am done with my work," said the watch man.
The boys loitered near the watch man's seat. As soon as Rishab came he inquired with the boys on how their day went. After exchanging a few pleasantries, they immediately started with Accountancy. The boys in a state of amazement with their mouth open listened to the fluent English spoken by the watch man which appeared to be of high standard; the flawless calculations; and the examples that sounded more like personal experiences. The boys had a feeling they were not listening to a layman but a business tycoon. His teaching style was clear, simple, understandable and interesting. He cleared all their doubts very smartly. This left the boys dazed. Rishab's lessons were interrupted when the flat owners stopped by to speak to him or when he had to attend to work. The boys were so engrossed in learning that they lost track of time. Their lessons came to an abrupt halt when they heard the stern voice of Mr. Khan, Tausif's father asking, "What's going on here? What are you boys doing here at this hour?"
The trio stood up and Tausif answered proudly, "Learning Accountancy!"
"From whom? The watch man? Have you lost your mind?" he said with a mocking laughter.
"But dad he is excellant! You must listen to him."
"You boys better go home and stop goofing around," said Mr. Khan sternly.
The boys looked at Rishab with a sullen face and without mustering courage to utter another word ran up the stairs.

     The teenagers knew that their night watch man was no ordinary person. They were overwhelmed with excitement. The next evening they were waiting for their new tutor's arrival at the building entrance. As soon as he entered the building the boys spoke in unison in English, "You were excellent yesterday! It was much easier to understand today's class. Where are you from? How do you know so much?" 
The boys went on bombarding him with a lot of other questions. Rishab once again narrated his tall tale about the head injury and the memory loss.
"How sad! We are very sure you are a well read person," said Sameer.
"You will surely regain your memory," said Tausif and with a surprised look on his face continued, "But it's surprising that you haven't forgotten your Maths or English."
Sameer intervened as Rishab opened his mouth to respond, "Rishab we have our semester exams next month end and we need your help."
At this Rishab was relieved that he didn't have to fib again and happily said, "We will work on that, provided your parents let you spend some extra time with me here."
"More over we have a presentation to make in the Business Studies class the next week. Can you please help us with that?" asked Tausif beseechingly.
Rishab realised that this was going a little over the top. He had a mind to charge the boys for the tutions. But he had his doubts on continuing teaching the boys on seeing Mr. Khan's attitude towards him. Moreover he was here doing a watch man's job and not a professor's. He reminded himself that he was 'Jagannath Joshi' the millionare who owned CART Financial Company. Hence his pride subdued him from earning petty money. After all he was looking forward to own the 'Treasure Trove' at the Edinburgh Museum. He wondered what and how long it would take him to own it. Thus he decided to play along. "Yes, I shall help you boys once I am free. It's best if you boys go get your books and wait for me."
Rishab soon found himself in the company of the boys answering their academic questions and clearing their doubts.

     "Looks like the boys have found a new professor. What are you up to Rishab?" scorned Mr. Khan.
The trio who were immersed in discussing the subjects were startled all of a sudden.
"Dad Rishab's helping us with our studies."
"What is he, a professor from the Oxford University?" asked Mr. Khan mockingly.
In reality, Rishab aka Jolly was a graduate from the Oxford University, London.
At this Rishab felt instigated and had every intention of replying "Yes!" but stood silent with his eyes down cast as to not to blow off his true identity.
"Rishab you are wasting the boys time."
"No Sir, I am helping them."
Amused Mr. Khan said "Really!" and furiously said "I want to see good grades on my son's marks sheets, if not you will lose your job. Do you understand?"
On seeing Mr. Khan's high headedness Rishab felt a surge of anger in him. Controlling his impulses he merely replied with a "Yes Sir!"
Mr. Khan looking at his son, barked, "You boy if you don't live up to my expectations, you will have to pay a huge price." saying this he took the stairs to his flat.

     Rishab enjoyed helping the boys with their studies. Everyday he would look forward to going to the apartment. There were times when he would reach the building much earlier than expected. At times while teaching the boys, some of the flat residents would kindly address him as 'Masterji', 'Professor' and 'Teacher'. In days he was popularly known as the 'Maths Teacher' than the 'Night Watch Man' in the apartment. He was Happy as a sun flower. This also reflected on his work at the hotel. He appeared to be more gentle to the other Room Boys which surprised them. Keeping in mind the bad conduct from his past, the room boys would manage to sadistically probe the demon in him by calling him names. The work environment in the hotel didn't tend to cheer Rishab very much.

    It was the beginning of the new month ever since Rishab began his work in the hotel. One mid morning when the room boys were busy with their chores, Sikandar got a call from home. As he had to leave immediately he summoned Rishab who was in the next room busy with his work and instructed him to clean the rooms that Sikandar was supposed to. Sikandar was ready to lash out at Rishab as he had got him conditioned in doing so either by whining or refusing to work. But that day Sikandar was caught by surprise when Rishab reacted by saying, "Yes! I'll do it. Is everything alright? You seem to look worried." As the Senior Room boy didn't expect this he was stunned for a few seconds. After regaining his composure, he stammered the words, "I...I...I don't know when I'll be back. You finish the work," saying this he literally broke into a run.
The next day when Sikandar returned to work, he was impressed with Rishab as he had completed the work single handedly and there were no complaints against him. Rishab also appeared to look peaceful and happy. Sikandar approached Rishab and handed over a sealed envelope to him which appeared a little bulky. "This was handed over to me by your friend Mr. Shankar. He asked me to give it to you," he said.
Rishab wondered what it contained and received it with a "Thank You!" He took care as to open the envelope in the Gents Rest Room which was normally empty. Rishab was surprised to discover that the envelop contained a bank pass book, an ATM Card and a hand written letter by Shankar to Rishab. Rishab was pleased to learn that the salary he would draw either at the Hotel or the Apartment would go into the newly opened bank account which is in Shankar's name as Rishab has no legal identity in the country. The ATM Card would help him draw money when ever required. Rishab appeared relieved by that gesture. From the first salary that he received at the hotel he hopped into a MacD restaurant and dug his teeth into a Jumbo Chicken Burger. But the first salary from the Apartment very reluctantly as promised went into the pocket of the Day Watch man of the 'Star Towers' building.

     Tausif and Sameer were waiting for their tutor to give him the good news. As soon as Rishab appeared in the apartment premises they ran to him holding a small box of eateries. When Rishab held it, it appeared warm and smelled sweet like as if it had come out of the bakery.
"What's this all about?" he asked the excited boys with a sense of surprise.
"Our presentation was considered as the best in the class!" told Tausif with glee.
"Thank you so much Brother, those sweets are for you!" said Sameer.
Rishab was happy for the boys. The word 'Brother' stood out in his mind and he was glad that he had not only made friends but now had 'Brothers' whom he never thought would exist in his life. He thought if this is how it feels like to have 'Brothers', then "Cheers to the new found relationship!"
The news about the Night Watch Man's expertise was all over the apartment. When Sameer's mother approached him inquiring about the tuition fees that she would have to pay him, he was taken by surprise.
As he had not given it a thought, he very kindly said, "Madam I don't teach them for a fee. I derive great joy in helping them. They are more like family to me than mere boys living in the apartment."
For the first time in his life Rishab aka Jolly felt a sense of satisfaction in helping total strangers, just for the joy of helping. This surely was a new feeling that he had never felt before.
The apartment Night Watch Man's popularity was such that Rahul a college student living in the apartment came seeking help in Maths and Varun was keen on bettering his English Communication. Some of the parents wanted him to teach their school going children. As Rishab kindly declined their approach, at the same time Mrs. Sadvi the Flat Owners Association President growled at the women, "He is here to perform the watch man's duties and definitely not a tuition teacher. Kindly look for a tuition teacher else where. Please let him do his work." Giving Rishab a stern look she said, "I am sure you don't want to lose your watch man's job, or do you have an intention of switching to teaching?" Rishab for a moment contemplated on this and had half the mind to take up teaching as his profession, but then blurted out a "No Madam!" In spite of this Rishab was gladly helping 4 children. at times their lessons would go till midnight. During such times the boys parents would wait in the waiting area either by working on their laptop or snooze in their seat.

     Back in the hotel Sikandar observed that of late Rishab had turned patient, hard working, joyful and serene. When Sikandar brought this to Rishab's notice, with a sense of disbelief and joy, all that Rishab said was, "Really!?! WOW! Thanks for letting me know," and he danced his way to complete his duties. On the contrary Rishab observed that Sikandar had become irregular for work. When he inquired with him, Rishab learnt that Sikandar's father was fighting a tough battle with his life. The old man couldn't give up on drinking and this had affected his liver miserably. The doctors in the Government Hospital had given up hope and had sent him back home.

     As it was time for the semester exams for the boys in the apartment; they were busy studying and would approach their ace mathematics mentor only if they had any doubt with the subject. Hence Rishab found himself comparatively free. One evening after the day shift at the hotel, on noticing the absence of Sikandar at work, Rishab for the very first time went to the Senior Room Boy's house. Rishab had developed a soft corner for his senior collegue. Sikandar was amazed to see Rishab at his humble home which was in a chawl. Sikandar happily welcomed him home which was located on the first floor of the building. Rishab was saddened to see the condition of the house. It had a kitchen, bathroom and the only room where the family sat together, ate and even slept in. Sikandar's father was lying on the only cot in the house and was being nursed by his wife. There was a single ceiling fan and a tube light in the small room. The room had a small single table which was filled with medicines and other every day items; two cupboards that stood near the windows; and the two large windows of the room looked out at the old buildings across the street. Rishab was invited to sit on the only chair in the house and Sikandar sat down on a wooden stool. Rishab greeted Sikandar's mother with a Namaste, while the old man on the cot who was clutching his stomach wining in pain did not take notice of the guest's presence. This was a very painful sight for Rishab and his heart went out to the family. The only pain that Rishab aka Jolly had witnessed so far was when drunken men beat up each other in a pub in London or when an employee walked out of the building sulking when they were fired by  Jolly. It was hard for Rishab to digest the fact that people lived in such pathetic condition.

     Sikandar's father was a small time business man. When Sikandar and his brother were still in school, he incurred a loss in his business. His business partners who realised that the company could close down any time, instead of finding a solution to rectify the problem, went absconding with the remainder of the little money which could have grown with proper planning and investment, and would have saved the company. Sikandar's father was busy planning for the revival of the company while this happened. He was shocked when he realised, the kind of harsh circumstance that he was in. The investors were clinging on to his throat for their money. He was aware of the fact that even if he sold everything that he once owned he would not be able to repay them. Finally taking his wife and two children along with him, he went into hiding. As they had lost everything, Sikandar and his mother also started doing small time menial jobs and they earned their living. Sikandar's little brother was sent to school.
Like all this was not enough, fate had its ugly intentions turned towards the already grief stricken family. One day, one of the investor's wife happened to bump into Sikandar's mother in a market. That was it! The investors pounced on Sikandar's father like hungry lions. When the business man thought that he was dead, some of the investors realised that the man was in no condition to repay their money and that life had turned him and his family into a total wreck. It was finally decided by the investors that the money must be returned to them in installments in this life time itself. The family would be watched vigilantly and if they tried to hoodwink the investors, they would find themselves behind bars with immediate effect.
Once Sikandar's younger brother was done with his schooling, the boy started earning some money. The once upon a time well to do business man was devastated on seeing the condition of his family and felt guilty for the same. To ease his pain he resorted to drinking 2 pegs of alcohol a day, but over the time he got addicted to it to an extent that a huge part of his earnings would be spent on buying liquor. Fortunately the boys had grown up by then and were in a condition to deposit the necessary amount every month. Lack of higher education had crippled the boys as they lacked the needed academic Degree to pursue a better career in spite of the fact that they were smart, intelligent and hardworking. Nor was luck on their side for them to start a new professional venture. Because of which Sikandar had taken up a second job at a medical shop in the evening. The shop owner was kind enough to help Sikandar buy medicines for his father at a discounted rate. His brother who worked in another shop stayed back at home with his parents in the evening.

     As Sikandar ended his narration he realised he had to leave for the medical store. Rishab realised he was late by an hour's time and will have to face the tempest of angry words by Mrs. Sadhvi at the apartment. Heaving a sigh of grief on seeing Sikandar's father who was now fast asleep, Rishab conveyed his Namaste to Sikandar's mother who very apologetically said, "I am sorry I didn't give you anything to eat or drink. I was busy nursing my husband."
"Never mind Maa that's okay. You take care of yourself," said Rishab to the lady and moved out of the house along with Sikandar.

                                    ***CONTINUED IN 'THE QUEST - PART 4'***

THE QUEST - PART 2

                           CONTINUED FROM 'THE QUEST - PART 1'

     "At last...!" Jolly exclaimed heaving a sigh of relief as the airplane touched down at the Indira Gandhi International Airport at New Delhi, the Capital City of India. As he was not used to traveling long distances for hours together at one stretch, he found the journey a sheer torture. To avoid inconvenience of changing flights, the Quest coordinators had booked a direct flight for Jolly and Shankar from Edinburgh to New Delhi. The 10 hours 15 minutes journey had had a bad effect on his mind and body. As he never got pally with the travelers while travelling he had managed to watch 3 movies back to back; had dosed down 5 cups of tea and a small bottle of liquor; and the rest of the journey was spent snoozing. During the journey he had managed to learn from Shankar that they would be travelling to Ahmadabad the Capital City of Gujarat after two days of rest in New Delhi. As Jolly and Shankar were not of the same temperament, Jolly kept to himself and Shankar had befriended a couple of Indian travelers. Jolly missed his ever dear companions, the cell phone, laptop and books which he normally carried while travelling. It was Shankar who brought the Questor out of his sleep when the flight reached its destination.

     When Jolly moved out of the flight it was 4 A.M. in the morning.The cool breeze that blew across his face was quite refreshing. He realised that his body had stiffened due to the journey and jet lag had set in. Both Jolly and Shankar checked into a Hotel Lodge. It was a room for two. As they walked into the room Jolly very condescendingly asked Shankar, "Are we staying together?"
"Yes Mr. Joshi, for 2 days and 2 nights." replied Shankar as a matter of fact.
Jolly remembered sharing his room with his parents as a kid and once he turned into an adult it was either his best pal Vicky or the gorgeous birds.
"I would like to have a separate room for myself," said Jolly haughtily.
Shankar was amused on seeing the Quester's high headed nature and coolly retorted, "Let me remind you Mr. Joshi, your Quest has already begun. You are not entitled to a luxurious life at present. If luxury is what you want, you will have to earn it in the due course," to which Jolly rolled his eyes, while Shankar continued, "We will be off to Ahmadabad the day after tomorrow in the morning where you will be starting your new life."
That day Jolly spent his time sleeping till he felt re-energised.

     The day Jolly and Shankar flew to Ahmadabad, as there was minimum interaction between them, Jolly was surprised when Shankar led him into the Ahmadabad Government Hospital. With a confused look on his face Jolly asked Shankar, "Why here?"
"It's from here your new life will begin."
Shankar soon left Jolly waiting seated on a chair which was attached to some vacant chairs on the first floor corridor of the building. Shankar had gone looking for a man who would be helping Jolly in starting his new life. The smell of dettol and other medicines induced a feeling of nausea and Jolly's eyes started searching for a wash room from where he was seated, but couldn't find one. As the hospital was bustling with activities, he found doctors, nurses, cleaners, patients and many others moving around at their own pace. A group of men who were dressed shabbily occupied the chairs beside his. More over two of the men looked extremely sick. The snob in Jolly prompted him to move away from the crowd immediately. With a sense of disgust Jolly stood at a distance waiting for Shankar.
Shankar entered the corridor talking to a young man who was presumably in his early 30's, lean, tall, dark and had a worn out look on his face. As they neared the row of chairs Shankar realised that jolly was standing at a distance inspite of a vacant chair available. To have glimpsed a part of the Quester's nature, Shankar had a mocking smile on his face and shaking his head muttered, "Very Difficult!" Jolly was relieved to see Shankar and had every intention of leaving the building immediately. As the duo approached Jolly, Shankar introduced the young man as Sikandar, the Head Room Boy who worked at the 5 star hotel 'Arabian Nights'. He further let him know that Sikandar's father was admitted to the hospital as he had problems with his liver due to binge drinking. Jolly merely looked at Sikandar like as if he was a tree standing on the road side. While Sikandar who couldn't understand much of what they conversed in English in a hurried manner had a meek smile on his face.
"Sikander will help you in finding a job. After which you are on your own. To the present world your past is unknown as you have had a memory loss due to an accident and no one has come forward to claim you so far. You have waited for a long time for your family and now you are on a look out for a job to start a new life. The words 'Treasure Trove' will be spoken into your watch only in a life threatening situation or if you wish to quit the expedition. We will keep a track on your whereabouts and interactions. So cheating will cost you the Treasure. We will approach you when we feel that you are eligible to move ahead with the Quest. Do not expect the expedition to be easy. You are now all by yourself. Wish you good luck!", with the final information imparted, Shankar shook hands with Jolly as a sign of fair well and turned towards Sikandar who was by then lost in his own thoughts. Shankar's words in the language Hindi pulled him out from his world as he said, "Sikandar this is Rishab, the man whom I spoke to you about. You will get a handsome payment once you find a good job for him. As soon as he starts working he will take care of himself. After which he is no more your responsibility."
With a surprised look on his face as he looked on at Jolly, Sikandar said, "But Sir, this man looks like he comes from a good family. Do you think he will be able to work in a hotel as a room boy?"
At his words Shankar laughed and with amusement he replied, "If a man wants to earn a living and lead a satisfied life, he will consider no profession as big or small. At present he needs a job. See what you can do for him. Wish you good luck!" 
After which both Sikandar and Jolly strode out of the hospital premises into the busy streets of Ahmadabad.

     Our protagonist Jolly aka Rishab had to compensate with destiny for the sheer love of owning the Treasure Trove by acquiring a job as a Room Boy at the 5 star hotel 'Arabian Nights'. He found the first week of his new career torture some. Dusting the rooms; emptying the dust bins; changing the bed covers; catering to the customers needs; being bossed over by his superiors and customers whom Rishab considered as imbeciles, were all a horrendous experience. Imagine a King taking the place of a Manual Laborer overnight. It would be as if a King sized Ego that had been well fed over many years being crushed instantly under a Road Roller. For the royal life that Rishab aka Jolly had led, his present condition made him feel like a beggar. His reluctance to attend to some of the chores; his scornful attitude towards the room boys and the customers had put him into practically everyone's bad books. He had earned the nick names, 'your highness', 'high headed prince', 'fuss pot', and many others. Some of the room boys being aware of the consequences would deliberately call Rishab by the nick names. After which they would enjoy seeing him burn with fury. This would further lead to hatred in Rishab towards the lot.

     When Rishab realised that the remuneration at the hotel would amount to the money he used to buy his cigarettes back in London, he was determined to find other ways to earn some extra money. But he was in no condition to apply for any job as he had no legal identity with regard to his education or even his nationality. That made him feel like an alien dropped on earth from a different planet. As he had no friends in the city he missed his cell phone and laptop that were once upon a time his constant companions. Their absence were driving him insane. He was determined to own both as soon as possible. When he reluctantly approached Sikandar seeking help with regard to the additional job, the Senior Room Boy with a sense of scorn said, "Get Lost!"
With no other go Rishab ultimately approached the building watch man for help with whom he normally did not interact. He cringed and covered his nose at the smell of the beetle leaves emitted from the watch man's mouth as he opened it to speak with a snobbish look on his face.
"I don't work for free. When I find a job for you, your first salary comes to me," said the watch man taking advantage of Rishab's helplessness.
On hearing this, anger flared up in Rishab's mind. As he had no other go, he closed the deal with an, "Alright!"
The watch man was instrumental in finding a night watch man's job for Rishab in an apartment. Rishab soon found himself running errands at the apartment after the day shift in the hotel. In two weeks time he was frustrated with his life. He wanted to quit and many a times he had caught himself chanting the words 'Tresure Trove' in hushed tones. But as he honed the 'do or die' attitude, he patiently persisted his mission.

     One night Rishab had stretched himself on a mat and was fast asleep after a day's hard work near the entrance door of the apartment. The sound of footsteps that were hurrying and jumping down the stair case woke him up. When he checked the watch it showed 1 A.M. He saw a boy who seemed to be in his late teens run out of the building.
Rishab got up and bellowed with concern at the boy, "Is everything alright?"   
At this the boy turned his head looked at the watch man without stopping and increased his speed. He had gone out of the gate when Rishab realised that something was terribly wrong. He ran  after the teenager as fast as he could. He finally managed to catch hold of the boy. He realised that the boy was no stranger but a resident of the apartment and was crying.
The teenager was taken by surprise and started shouting, "Leave me, let me go!" as he made every attempt to fight away the watch man from his firm grasp.
Rishab knew the boy would put himself in deeper peril if he lets him go than he already was in and so he kept dragging him into the apartment building. He could feel the boy slipping away from his clutches like an eel as the teenager kept fighting while he was being dragged.
"I wish I had more strength. I shall join the gym once I have the money to afford it," thought Rishab as he was struggling with the young man.
As they neared the door of the building the boy stopped struggling and stayed limp in Rishab's arms. Rishab felt like he was dragging a dead body and was horror struck. But the boy's gentle breathing brought him the realisation that the boy had had a swooning fit. Our strong watch man dragged the troubled teenager into the building with great effort and laid him on the floor. As Rishab had not encountered such a situation in the past he  panicked. He soon found himself splashing water on the boys face. The boy immediately recovered and sat up with  his face dripping with water. When he realised where he was he started crying. Our watch man didn't know what to do. He knew the boy would run away if he were left alone, so Rishab didn't dare to go seek help.
"What happened? You can tell me. I can help you." Rishab spoke to the boy in the language Hindi.
"Leave me alone! Nobody asked you to bring me back." told the boy as he cried.
"Why? What happened?" persisted Rishab with concern.
"Go away, you will not understand!" told the boy, who was now irritated.
Rishab who was seated beside the boy waited till he had calmed down. He realised that the boy's family members had not come down looking for him, probably they were not aware of him running away and were fast asleep.
He finally told the young man, "you will feel better if you confide in me. I might be able to help you. I promise I will not tell anyone. Your family seems to be asleep. I will not let them know of the night's happenings or to anybody else. You can trust me."
"You can't help me, even if I let you know."
"Try me!"
After a long pause which seemed like the boy was contemplating on letting out his pain to the kind man who appeared more like a person who was in the wrong place and in the wrong profession. He finally asked, "you promise you will not let my family or anyone know anything about what I am going to tell you?"
"I Promise, I won't tell."
The boy hesitatingly opened up at his own pace with sobs and sniffles intermittently. Rishab learnt that the boy's name was Tausif Khan. He was the son of Mr. Khan a garment merchant who owned a big showroom in the heart of the city. Mr. Khan wanted his son to study well and take over his business in the future. But Tausif always dreamed of pursuing the sport Cricket as his carrier. Back in school he was the Captain of the cricket team and so was he in college. Currently he was a part of the prestigious 'Youth Cricket State Level Team'. Off late he couldn't concentrate on his practice as he had to give more time for his studies as he couldn't understand the subjects and now he despised them. He also found it difficult to pass the papers in the exams because of which he was chided at home and scorned by his class mates. This had reduced his self esteem and had effected his performance in every aspect of his life.
"I can't go on like this any more. I have had enough," the boy finally said with a sigh.
Rishab empathised with the boy and asked, "So your father wants you to pass the papers, right?"
"That's right!"
"What if I go through your books and teach you?"
"Good joke!" saying that the Tausif let out a meek laugh.
"No seriously. More over there is nothing you would lose if I go through your books, isn't it?"
"Have you even passed your 10th class?" asked the boy with amusement.
Putting a hand on the boy's shoulder, Rishab ignoring the question, with a big grin on his face said, "Boy you have no idea how good I am with numbers. So much so I don't need a calculator for every silly maths problem."
Tausif was sure the man was bluffing. He knew the watch man would appear shame faced when he will not be able to keep up his word. The teenager who had now recovered completely from his depression, thought he would have some fun with the watch man and said, "I shall hand over only one book tomorrow evening as soon as you come for work. I want you to return it to me by 10 tomorrow night. You have no idea how strict my father is with regard to my studies."
"Sure, I'll do that," replied Rishab.
After which both of them tip toed to Tausif's flat in silence. Rishab saw to it that the boy was safe inside his home which was still deep in slumber.

                            ***CONTINUED IN 'THE QUEST - PART 3***

THE QUEST - PART 1

     The clouds up in the sky appeared like a fleet of ships sailing through the sky blue sea. Rishab sat gazing at them seated on the roof top of the fifteen floored 'Star Towers' sipping on his small cup of tea which had almost gone cold. This had become a routine from the past two weeks.
"Once I am back in London I should ask Robert to fix an appointment with the Managing Director of the 'London Shipping Company'. In another three years time I shall either buy a ship or get one built and go on a cruise." As he mulled on these thoughts, they were interrupted by a familiar voice which was calling out, "Rishab, Rishab, Rishab" from behind. As Rishab turned back he saw Sikander his colleague pantingly come up the stair case. He sensed annoyance in his voice as he roared in his colloquial language, Hindi, "What are you doing here? You can't expect us to do all the work and then you get payed for it. You better come and lend us a hand. What do you take yourself to be, a prince for you are royally seated here?"
Irritated by his words, Rishab replied haughtily, "But I am done with my shift. I'll be leaving in a few minutes time."
"Hello! It looks like you have every intention of getting sacked. I am sure you are aware of what the others think about you. If matters go to the Manager, you will no doubt have a time of your life," he said sarcastically and continued, "so you better get your big butt moving and come down to the party hall." saying this Sikander the Senior Room Boy of the hotel stormed away in a huff without waiting for Rishab who was now on his feet glaring at his coworker.
Rishab half intended to throw the half empty tea cup at Sikander for his audacity. But then held back his urge to do so and instead threw the remaining tea down from the roof top. If there was anybody walking below, he would have had a shower of tea from above.

     High headed, a fuss pot, bossy and ungrateful were what Rishab's co-workers considered him to be. In two weeks time Rishab had had tiffs with the room boys and was on the verge of getting sacked. The reason for his retainment as a hotel room boy was the sob story that he had narrated. When he was first brought to the hotel by Sikander. The staff on looking at Rishab's personality mistook him for a guest from a foreign country.
"The poor man seems to have lost his memory. He doesn't want to stay in the Ahmadabad hospital as nobody came to claim him. He now wants to work, he says." Told the Senior Room Boy Sikander to the hotel manager one morning. He further said, "The hospital staff will intimate us in case anybody identifies him and comes forward to take him home. They have also reported to the Police." Sikander innocently assured his manager not realising that Rishab would turn out to be a pain one day.
When the manager spoke to Rishab, he learnt that an accident had left him in a state of coma for a couple of weeks and when he woke up one fine morning he realised he had lost his memory. A kind old couple had donated clothes to him, but now he wanted to earn a living. He had absolutely nothing with him, except for the few clothes. This tall tale had matched his condition quite well and had acquired the mercy of the staff members. That's how Rishab was hired as a room boy at the 5 star Arabian hotel 'Arabian Nights' which occupied the fourteenth and the fifteenth floor of the prestigious building 'Star Towers'.

     Coming back to the present day, Rishab who was annoyed at Sikander's words went down to the Party hall which was being decorated artistically. He learnt that it was a millionaire's son's engagement and he quietly started arranging the chairs. There was the food section being readied, the dance floor looked quite inviting and the red carpet was laid for the celebrated celebrities and other invitees. This brought back the memories of the time when he was partying with his friends a few months ago at an exotic resort in London.
"Can anyone survive ten shots of Tequila at one go? I don't mind drinking tea of that amount", wondered aloud Vicky, Jolly's best friend who stood along with some of the other boys gaping at his pal gulp down each peg.
Our protagonist Rishab was known as Jolly to his friends in London. Jolly's birth name being 'Jagannath Joshi' was despised by him claiming it to be very orthodox and old fashioned for a person born and bred in England. He found the name Jolly comparatively cool and moreover it suited his personality. If you are wondering what happened to the carefree English Man Jolly to have adopted a new identity called Rishab, now living in the city of Ahmadabad, India, working as a room boy in a five star hotel, the story will shortly unfurl answers to the mystery. So as Jolly gulped down the last glass of Tequila, he whooped and shouted "I did it once again!" This was soon followed by a puff from a branded cigarette and he had returned to his love nest with three pretty birds. The birds had kept him busy till day break on his king sized bed after which all the four snoozed serenely.
Rishab heaved a sigh on remembering the good old days. By then the hotel party hall was already set elegantly and the guests had started pouring in. He scanned the room to see if there were any familiar faces among the guests, but sadly there were none. As he considered his day's work done at the hotel, he quietly and inconspicuously moved out of the hall.

     In no time as Rishab moved out of the hall did he encounter the hotel manager Mr. Ali a middle aged man, short in stature, with a receding hairline, fair and with an extremely large pot belly which seemed to be almost touching the ground.
"Rishab come here boy we need to go down to the store room to check on the goods." commanded Mr. Ali as he was frantically heading towards the store room.
Rishab rolled his eyes and suppressing his anger and started, "But Sir, I should have been there at the apartment by now. I don't want to lose my job at the apartment."
"Come on, stop worrying if the association President expects an explanation I am willing to give it. It won't take long. Lets hurry!" He further said with a mischievous smile on his face and with a wink, "Hey I will treat you with an exquisite dinner, and alcohol along with it."
It was a tempting offer for Rishab as he had not had a sip of alcohol ever since he relocated to India.
Rishab with a sigh thought, "The Manager knows his employees quite well. Smart man! I wonder what's waiting for me at the apartment!"
Fortunately the work at the store room didn't take long. As promised he was treated with a hearty meal and the drinks. Rishab cursed his fate as he had to settle for a cup of cheap drink which he didn't bother to empty.

     "Is this the time to come for work?" bellowed with anger Mrs. Sadhvi the Flat Owners Association President as soon as she saw Rishab enter the apartment premises. Rishab was two hours late for work.
He rolled his eyes and grunted, "There was extra work at the hotel Madam, I was forced to stay back."
"In that case why don't you take up a full time job at the hotel and stay there all the time. Do you realise how much inconvenience it has caused due to your late arrival? This is the second time you are doing so in less than a week's time. If you are finding the work difficult you can gladly leave. We shall hire someone more reliable," she literally shouted the words and stormed away in a huff not waiting for Rishab's response.
Rishab was not used to such treatment. He had every intention of punching the lady in her face.
Back in London he was treated like a Prince at home, devoid of all difficulties and in his office, he was the King. Employees took orders from him. He had his own ways of dealing with people who crossed him and never would you see him raise his voice in anger; but that didn't make him peaceful even though he appeared so. But now at the apartment, he felt that things were going beyond the limits and that he would experience a burn out any moment. He wanted to scream and shout and break down things to release his mounting anger and frustration.
"Curse you Vicky!" muttered Rishab and started his work with his night duty at the twelve storied apartment.
"Why would I curse Vicky? I brought this on to myself. Now I need to pay a huge price to achive my goal, no matter what." mulling on these thoughts Rishab closed his eyes drifting into a slumber after the day's labor.

     Six weeks ago Jolly was enjoying some quiet time all by himself at the beautiful city of Edinburgh the capital city of Scotland. As an Investment Banker he was extremely busy with the upheavals in the Investment Sector in his home town London. The CART Financial Company that was owned by him and was partnered by his best friend Vicky Goodwill had definitely earned a multi million dollar profit. Their hard work and smart skills had fetched it all for them. After the massive gain in their venture, both Vicky and Jolly had decided to go on a short sabbatical by taking turns. Vicky had returned to work after his and now it was Jolly's turn. In a matter of three days, soon into his sabbatical Jolly felt like a bird out of its cage and had taken the pleasure to visit the Edinburgh Castle; the Camera Obscura and World of Illusions; Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art; and had a good time at the Scottish Story Telling Centre. The three days had already rejuvenated him and had fed him with vigor. So much so, he had nearly forgotten about his home town London. But sadly London had not forgotten him. A call from Vicky brought back the lost memories of CART Financial Company. He cringed as he received the call.
"Mate, having fun?" came the excited voice of Vicky from the phone.
"This place is brilliant!" replied Jolly happily.
"I have some good news for you."
"What's that?"
"Here is something exciting which might bring more credit to our company."
"As in?"
"Yesterday Miller had stopped by the office. Remember the guy from the 'Antiques World'?"
"Hmmm..., Yes I do."
"He was all excited about the discovery of a 'Treasure Trove' by one Mr. Samuel Lockhorn. He let me know that the Trove is supposedly massive and that there are people who have lined up to pay a price for the same. It definitely would cost a bomb and hence the super rich are after it. But not all know of it's existence as the news of the Treasure has been a word of mouth. Moreover right now the Trove is in the cellars of the Edinburgh Museum. There is top grade security being provided for it. So what do you say? Fancy having a look at it?"
Jolly listened to his pal intently and was skeptical about the whole affair.
"Miller told this to you is it? How reliable is he? It all sounds very interesting. But don't you think it's nothing more than Chinese whispers."
"Nooooo Mate, I knew you wouldn't believe it, nor did I when Miller let me know. I called the museum to conform the news and it appears to be true. I believe we need to hurry before it's gone. I think we should go there tomorrow itself first thing in the morning. I'll see you soon then. Bye!"
Even before Jolly could respond the line was disconnected. He wondered how much more richer he would get tomorrow. But it was Vicky who was excited about the Treasure and he would be soon joining him. Mulling over these thoughts Jolly started another interesting day.

     It had been quite some time that both friends had had a time out together. Vicky being a family person would either spend his free hours with his wife and kids or would be serving at the Church. Jolly was glad that he would spend some time with his best pal and the only family he had. Jolly's parents Mr. and Mrs. Joshi lost their lives as their ship capsized in the waters of the English Channel one fateful night while they were returning to England from a business trip three years ago. Jolly's father Mr. Praful Joshi a self made man  was very disciplined and stern. He was the only person who would make it a point to address his son by his birth name, 'Jagannath'. Even though Jolly despised his birth name he had no other go but to yield to his father's ways. The CART Financial Company which Mr. Praful Joshi owned, after his demise was passed on to his sole hire Jagannath Joshi aka Jolly. Jolly was intelligent, smart, ambitious, hard working, but a pampered child who was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and was devoid of all difficulties of life. At the most he would have had a tiff with his play mates over a toy as a toddler and when he grew up into a young man he would at the most fight with the boys over a lass. He was a well fed person who would visit the gym only to fetch a date for the evening. When it came to running the company, no doubt he honed his father's skills. So a huge profit was what he was sure to earn every year. A year and a half ago he roped in his best friend Vicky Goodwill aware of his attributes in the financial sector, as the partner and the CEO of his company. As they were friends ever since they were kids, Jolly trusted Vicky completely. At the same time Vicky who was smart, intelligent and tactful was instilled with good virtues and had no trouble in living up to his friend's expectations easily. But Vicky was concerned about Jolly as he had indulged into excessive drinking, smoking and would be often seen at his love nest with the birds ever since his parents demise. Jolly's parents sudden death had shocked the young man who was then in his late 20's. It was obvious that the passing off of his parents had created a vacuum in his life. In spite of him being born in an affluent family he had severe problems in coping with his loss. He was no Prince Siddhartha turned Bhagwan Gautam Buddha to have gone in search of answers to the pleasures and pains of life, but for Jolly being what he was had succumbed to other corrosive means that were gradually ruining his professional and personal life. Vicky's love and attention for his friend had considerably brought down the intake of toxins and the hovering of the birds around his pal. "No birds; probably a tad bit of booze," was what Jolly had assured Vicky while leaving to Scotland. When Vicky met Jolly at the hotel in Edinburgh, Vicky was very impressed that the rehabilitated young man had stuck to his words and looked rejuvenated.

     So in the morning after a refreshing breakfast, the two friends started off to the Edinburgh Museum. As their appointment with the archaeologist was in the afternoon they spent a considerable amount of time observing and learning at the museum. They enjoyed a hearty meal at a restaurant near by. While Jolly paid the bill, Vicky received a call from Mr. Lockhorn's secretary as a conformation and reminder of the appointment in the afternoon at 2 o'clock. Both the friends sprinted towards the museum and as soon as they got through the security check, they were escorted by two security personals to the rear end of the building. They were led into a lounge. The lounge looked exquisite with old English furniture placed on an Arabic Carpet; velvet curtains at the large windows; framed paintings on the walls and monthly travel magazines on the teapoy. While the Londoners waited for Mr. Lockhorn's arrival the security personals stood guard at the door.
"I didn't know such a room existed in the museum," told Jolly in hush tones to Vicky who was looking at the room in wonderment.
They soon saw a well dressed dark man enter the room. He seemed to be of an African origin; probably was in his late 40's; athletic built; tall; and wore a bright smile on his face. He was accompanied by his assistant a white man, perhaps who was in his late 30's; lean and tall; dressed casually and carried a folder with him.
"Good afternoon gentlemen!" greeted Mr. Lockhorn shaking hands with the men waiting. The same gesture was followed by his assistant. As the four of them sat down, the  Investment Bankers learnt that the assistant was Mr. Ivan Smith a budding archaeologist. The Londoners were informed that the Treasure Trove was found two years ago while excavating the ruins that were found in the North of the Culzean Castle. The Trove was of the 18th century. They did not have the slightest knowledge of the Treasure that was buried 10 feet below the ground till the metal detector detected it. Excavation was still in progress in the archaeological horizon. It was conformed that the Trove belonged to the castle, but as there were no heirs of the monarch the Trove will be in the safe keeping at the Edinburgh Museum. The value of the Treasure was Priceless. In spite of the fact that a lot of people had come forward to buy the Trove for a hefty amount, it was decided not to give it away so easily. In fact it was Mr. Lockhorn's idea of the Trove being earned by the one who wants to own it. One of the conditions was also that the owner of the trove will not be liable to take it away and it would be kept in the museum. A fee would be paid to the museum by the owner for its safe keeping and maintenance. Ultimately the possessor of the Treasure Trove would have the pride of owning it till the last day of his life.

     No money would amount to the kind of payment that Mr. Lockhorn had expected from the one who wanted to own the Trove. He had smartly planned the price of the Treasure in terms of completing a Quest successfully. A Quest not unlike the others which could be completed in a few hours or days. But a Quest that would keep the quester away from his family, profession and friends; one that would deprive him of his luxurious life; where he would be living in a different country, communicating in a different language, acquire a different profession, live with different people, consume the regional food, and along with some more conditions, finally don a new identity.

     Jolly wondered if the Treasure Trove was worth the trouble. A kind request put forth by the friends to have a look at the Trove took them to the underground cellars of the museum that were decked with security in terms of men and machine. They had to pass through several metal doors and security checks, and finally they stood in front of the glittering 'Treasure Trove'. The Treasure Chest was made out of wood. It was two feet in length and a foot in breadth. The edges and hinges of the chest were covered with gold. As the security guards stood outside the room, the Londoners and the archaeologists were the only ones viewing the chest behind closed doors. Jolly and Vicky were astonished to see the thick gold coins which were 1000 in number, crystals of diamonds, rubies of varied colours and, bronze and silver crockery of the 18th century. Jolly in perticular was spell bound on seeing this. He owned the best of the cars; lived in a palacious mansion; was a multi millionaire; he owned the best of practically everything in life and now he wanted to own the Treasure Trove and swell with pride like a king.
"No touching Sir, not until you own it," cautioned Mr. Smith as Jolly had extended a hand to feel the Treasure Chest. As he withdrew his hand, with his eyes fixed on the Prized Treasure, he affirmed, "the Treasure is mine!", on looking at Mr. Lockhorn he proclaimed, "I am ready for the Quest!"
"Are you serious? That's rubbish! You are joking, aren't you?" words tumbled out of Vicky's mouth with a sense of astonishment and confusion.
"I am sure of myself. Look at that beauty. I would consider myself lucky to own something as gorgeous as her in this life time!" said Jolly with his eyes still on the Treasure.
"But what about your passion, the CART Financial Company? I am sure you will not let go of her. She needs your attention to grow." retaliated Vicky.
After giving a moments thought Jolly said, "I have complete faith in you. You handle her in my absence. Moreover Robert my secretary will help you in which ever way possible. You know he is dedicated to his work."
Vicky staggered in his place in surprise gaping at his friend at what he had said.
The two archaeologists listened to the friends in amazement.
Addressing Mr. Lockhorn Jolly further said, "can we please discuss the terms and conditions, and rules of the expedition?"
"Mr. Jolly don't you think you should take a day's time before you take a decision?" asked the ace Archaeologist with concern. "Because the expedition will involve a lot of planning and expenditure from your end as well as ours," he further cautioned.
To this Jolly immediately says, "As I have made up my mind, I don't think I will change my decision."
"Okay, if you say so. Let us go into my office and discuss regarding your feat."
As the four of them proceeded towards Mr. Lockhorn's office, Vicky kept fretting about Jolly's decision all the way.

     Our Ace Archaeologist gave Jolly a detailed view on how the Quest would be carried out, the different levels in it; the help that he would get in times of danger and how the Archaeologist's team would assess if he has completed each level. He also let him know that there have been men and women who courageously embarked on the journey but returned as they found the tasks impossible to complete. One of them tried to cheat and was withdrawn from the Quest. Jolly would be the 5th quester. In case of withdrawal at any point from the Quest would be as easy as speaking the magic words, 'Treasure Trove' into his special wrist watch that he will be presented while leaving for the Quest. This would attract help and bring him back to the cosy comforts of his home. No adventurer has been able to even touch the Treasure so far. By letting Jolly know all this and much more, Mr. Lockhorn showed him the legal documents related to the Trove and those that he will have to sign as a legal formality once he is ready to take off.
"Mr. Jolly we need to talk with our associates regarding your quest. Mean while I would want you to think about your decision and if you are sure of travelling you might have to wind up things at your work place. Keep your loved ones informed of your absence. Mr. Smith will let you know of your departure in two days time."
The two Londoners conveyed their gratitude to the archaeologists, moved out of the building and walked beneath the star lit sky of Edinburgh, one all excited about the journey and the other crestfallen.

     At the hotel room Vicky cursed himself aloud for encouraging his best friend to have a look at the Treasure. No one had the slightest idea of the price one had to pay for the Treasure till they met the Archaeologists. Least did Vicky expect his best friend to jump into taking a decision to go on a Quest at the spur of the moment. All his efforts in convincing Jolly to withdraw from proceeding with the new venture went in vain. They soon reached London with Jolly all excited and Vicky worried for his friend. Vicky's wife Emma tried to dissuade Jolly, but sadly it brought no desired results. On the contrary she heard Jolly telling her with a sweet smile which could put anyone's heart at ease, "my dear Sis, I'll be fine; you don't have to worry! Take care of your lovely family."
Jolly had smartly handed over his responsibilities to Vicky and had nominated him to take all important decisions at the company in his absence. All these changes and extra responsibilities made Vicky nervous. But he obliged and more over for the courageous and responsible person that he was he took it up as a challenge. He was also sure he didn't have to back on Robert for everything.

     Jolly received a phone call from Mr. Smith to conform on his decision to go on the Quest.
"Yes I will!" came the affirmative reply from Jolly.
"So if that is the case Sir, you will be starting your expedition from India from two weeks from today."
Mr. Smith further reveled the procedure of transferring the money to the Museum account on the day of his arrival at Edinburgh as they will be bearing his travel and miscellaneous expenses. Finally he let know of how light his travel luggage had to be. With this Mr. Smith wished Jolly good luck and ended the call. The thought of travelling to India brought back memories of his childhood days. Jolly had spent three summer holidays with his Paternal Grandparents at Delhi the capital city of India. He didn't remember much as he was a kid, expect for the love bestowed on him by the old couple, his travel around the city and a little boy whom he played with. He used to converse with them in the language Hindi and it was the same even with his parents. But now sadly his parents and grandparents weren't alive. In spite of the fact that he was alone, he was thrilled that he was to get familiarised with his roots once again.

     Vicky accompanied Jolly to Edinburgh to wish him well and see his best pal off, with out a clue when he would see him again. There were five more hours for the flight's departure. The duo found themselves at Mr. Lockhorn's office. Jolly had carried a small bag that contained three pairs of clothes and toiletries as per the rules of the Quest. He was asked to hand over his wrist watch, cell phone, house keys and wallet to Vicky for safe keeping. A new identity is what he would hone and hence a new name. After giving much thought Jolly adopted his childhood Indian friend's name, 'RISHAB'. A new wrist watch was handed over to him, which looked like it was picked up from a street merchant. But Jolly knew the watch was special and would be the only life saver. After a final review of the terms and conditions, and rules of the mode of earning the 'Treasure Trove', Jolly signed the required papers and transferred the money into the Museum account. He was finally told that he would be accompanied to Delhi by one Mr. Shankar who was one of the co-coordinators of the Quest. With this, the two archaeologists, Vicky and Jolly headed towards the Edinburgh airport.

                          ***CONTINUED IN 'THE QUEST - PART 2'***

BRAVE HEARTS

     It was mid morning when the telephone in the Office Room of the Oni Boys Middle School, in the village of Oni, Odisha, rang. The superintendent of the office room ran to class number 4 where the Headmistress was taking up Mathematics Class for the class 8th students.
"Madam you'll be getting a call from the Educational Department in another five minutes time," she announced as she entered the class.
As Mrs. Leela Sahu, the Headmistress started towards the office, in no time did a paper rocket zoom across the class room and hit a student. The murmuring of the students sounded like the room was infested with bees. They were all excited on receiving the unexpected short break. Mrs. Sahu trotted towards her chamber and as she entered, the phone on her table rang. The Block Educational Officer's visit was scheduled for the next day.

     Mrs. Sahu, a short plump dark skinned woman was a very efficient Social Worker in her younger days. She had worked tirelessly for the upliftment of the living standards of some of the villages in the state of Odisha. Her efforts had lead to the construction of primary schools; had seen to the development of cottage industries; promoted women employment and education; and now that she was in her late 50s was running a Middle School for boys in the thriving village of Oni. Her intentions and work were good and noble; but her only draw back was her bad temper. So much so the school staff would wonder how her family members got along with an ill tempered lady like her. But people did not realise that it was her hot temper and fierce nature that got most of her work done. It was her nature that kept her and the boys school alive in the village of Oni.

     The Oni Boys Middle School had been successfully working since the past 8 years. There was a time when the school had housed 300 students. But after 6 years of functioning the number dwindled down to 225. The reasons for the decline in the number are extremely grave and will be revealed to the readers eventually. Now with only 225 students in it the school took great care to expose these children from poor background to various academic areas in its limited capacity. Children who could afford to pay the fees and were interested in pursuing their studies took the trouble of reaching the school every morning. The school also had scholarship facilities. Children coming from other villages mainly traveled by foot or by ferry. Many of them had to travel through the forest as that was the shortest route to the school. Fortunately for many years there had been no sightings of man-eaters prowling around in the day time, except for foxes and deer running, monkeys swinging on trees and snakes slithering by. There were times when a few young dare devils had managed to enter the forest at night, but after a while they would run back to the village in a super sonic speed out of fright claiming that they had encountered ghosts and other wild beasts. So walking through the forest at night was forbidden.

     Off late the only demons that had inhabited the forest were the militants. The militants had spread terror in Oni and some of the other villages close by. Two years ago two of the boys who had headed towards school from their village never reached the school nor their home. The forest was well searched, the villages as well; and their photos were put up practically everywhere. No dead bodies were discovered anywhere that resembled the boys. It looked like they had vanished into the thin air. Theories invented by the villagers on the missing boys were going around the village and far. Some assumed that they must have been eaten by a maneater; and some others thought it must be the ghosts dwelling in the forest that must have taken them away. It had remained a mystery for quite a long time and the mystery was unveiled 6 months ago.

     Now that the militants had terrorised the villagers, there were army personals posted in every village and around the forest. Soldiers walking along with the children were a common sight. The parents had much faith in the armed soldiers and hence let their children go to school everyday. Any government officials how ever small their cadre, would be accompanied by the army personals once they entered their territory and at times starting from the city. The other visitors to the villages were watched vigilantly. Apart from the absconding children, there had been no terror scaring the villagers ever since the army took guard. For which the villagers were much grateful to them.

     Mrs. Sahu got the documents and other records ready to be scrutinised by the Block Educational Officer. The day of their arrival, the office staff were getting everything ready in a haste while the Headmistress had gone to receive Mrs. Jaya Singh and Mr. Dilip Mohanty. They were accompanied by the very able, efficient and experienced  Police Officer Ruchi Roa. The Educational Officers not being very keen on staying in the village for long hours started their work as soon as they got off the car. They were aware of the traumas of the past that the village had faced and hence wanted to see themselves alive and back in the city before sunset. Mrs. Sahu welcomed the trio very heartily and they reciprocated the same. They started their work by visiting the class rooms where the classes were on. As soon as they entered a class room the students who were seated stood up in respect.
When the Officers, Headmistress and the class teacher were busy conversing, the Police Officer moved around the class room visually scanning students randomly and looking outside the windows every now and then. She was aware of the boys glaring at her and their cross talk. She ignored them. Moreover she wasn't permitted to accompany the Educational Officers when they were at work. Her only priority was the safety of the school and the villagers. So she gently excused herself from the Officers and the Headmistress, giving the reason that she would be out in the village and will be back by the time they were done with their work. The students gaze followed her, which was immediately drawn by the Headmistress's greeting the students. The very stern Police Officer Ruchi Roa had served for 8 years in the Police Department. She had an athletic built. Her short hair, neatly ironed uniform and her every stride gave her the look of an army personal. There had been times when she was a part of the civilian rescue operation, of which her arms bore the scars that she wore proudly like the badges awarded to her. 

     Once the Officers were done with the class inspection, they moved towards the Headmistress's chamber to examine the records and documents. They came across the clippings of the encounter with the militants that were from the news papers and magazines.
"It was horrendous what your students and staff went through," Mrs. Singh told apologetically to the Headmistress.
"It was a sheer stroke of bad luck!" she responded.
"You are a brave woman Mrs. Sahu, so are your students and staff. It is impressive that the school has been functioning so well inspite of the traumas that all of you have under gone", Mr. Mohanty put in a word of appreciation.
"Its all God's grace," said Mrs. Sahu.
"We have read about the atrocious events the village folk have faced. Mrs. Sahu I am sure you have a lot more to let us know apart from what we have heard and read. Would you be comfortable revealing them to us? Probably the Educational Department would be able to help not just your school but the schools in the other villages and at the same time would learn from the events", courteously requested Mrs. Singh.

     Mrs. Sahu willingly narrated the occurrences that revealed the treachery and insubordination of the militants; and the valor and sacrifice of the army personals.
"It all started three years ago when Moti the office assistant brought along with him Billu to the school; as there was an opening for the post of  the Office Assistant. You know how the villagers are, they don't stick to a job for a long time. Hence almost every year or once in two years, new staff was recruited."
Not all could tolerate Mrs. Sahu's temper. Some of the staff left the job out of fright. Some of them stormed out of the office in anger. Moreover in a male dominated society, no man would like to be chided by a woman, leave alone work under her. Who would want to be trapped in a cage with a fierce lioness in it?! The villagers being uncivilized would take the liberty to commit mistakes very often in spite of correcting them again and again. Mrs. Sahu would thunder with rage at their frequent follies. For her hotheadedness she had managed to earn the nick names such as the Lioness, the Ogress, the Monster and the Devil. She herself was quite aware of this, but chose to keep mum. It was Moti alone through his sheer wit and tact stuck to his job all these years. He believed that 'a known devil was better than the unknown angel'. Moreover Mrs. Sahu's motherly instincts approached Moti with a lot of love and concern as he was the youngest staff member.

     "It's only Moti who has been working for the school ever since its inception." Continued Mrs. Sahu, "He has studied up till 10th class. He had wished to go to the city and work, but the presence of his mentally challenged younger sister held him back. Four years ago his parents passed away as they had fallen victims to a rare kind of illness. So now he is the only bread winner..." As the Headmistress ended her sentence, Moti emerged at the door carrying a food tray which contained tea and savouries for the three of them. He was introduced to the officers by the Headmistress; to which Moti wished them, "Namaste!(Meaning: I bow down to you)", and quitely left the room.

     As the Officers sipped on the tea and relished the eatables, Mrs. Sahu continued, "So one day Moti brought Billu to my office. As I spoke to Billu, let me know that he had come to the village in search of a job. He didn't intend to work in the city as it was very far away from his village where his aged parents lived and earned their living through farming. He being ambitious decided to earn his living through a different means. He had earlier worked as a truck driver to a rich farmer in his village. But the work was seasonal and moreover his kind Master died. Billu didn't like to work under anyone else after the passing away of the farmer and hence had come to the village of Oni. I decided to observe him for a week and then take a decision to hire him permanently or not. A weeks probationary period you see. He proved to be very promising. He was a hard working young man who was in his early 30's, was extremely jovial, friendly, intelligent and smart. He dressed in simple pant and shirt; had a bright smiling face but his hair was unkept most of the time. The students liked him to an extent that they considered him as one among them. That young man had won our hearts in no time." As the last words trailed away there was a feeling of sadness that passed over Mrs. Sahu's face, and her eyes had welled with tears. Noticing this change in her the officers exchanged looks.
"Madam, it is okay if you don't want to continue, we can understand you have gone through very bad times and have lost trusted people," immediately came Mrs. Sing's consoling words.
"I have never revealed the nightmares that we have faced to anybody in such detail. I don't mind sharing it with both of you as we know each other since a long time. Please ignore my tears," said the headmistress blowing her nose.
"Billu lived in our village as a paying guest...," proceeded Mrs. Sahu, "...it seems there were three other boys living with him in his room and they were all from different villages perusing different professions. The land owner did not seem to have any problem with them either. Billu would normally go to his village on Saturday evenings or on holidays. He and his room mates would sometimes walk along with the students through the forest and take a route leading to their villages. They would return to school on Monday mornings by the same route. The students were thrilled by their company." 

     "One day Moti came to me excited and was all smiles. In hush tones he let me know that Billu was in love. I was happy for Billu. He was anyways of a marriageable age you see. When I further enquired about it and who the girl was, he let me know that one evening when he was walking back home with Billu, he saw a young lady who was dressed in long skirts with a shawl around her head walk in the opposite direction at a distance. Her face wasn't visible entirely. But she entered the cross road to her right. Moti and Billu walked straight past the cross road. They came across the forked street that each lead to their home. Both bid good night to each other and entered their respective street. It so happened that Moti had forgotten to ask Billu something. So when he returned to the spot where they had parted, Moti saw Billu running into the cross road where the young lady had entered. Since it was late in the evening and the sky was nearly dark the streets of the village were deserted. Moti silently followed him as he was curious what Billu was up to. It seems Billu entered the premises of a wheat mill which was closed for the day to meet the young lady whom they had passed by a few minutes ago. As Moti couldn't see them he went closer and could hear them talking hurriedly in whispers. As he didn't want to get caught spying on them he moved away from there. Moti didn't speak about this event with Billu as he was not sure as to what was going on. But during two different occasions Moti acccidently spotted Billu and the girl together at night once at the mechanics garage, where the girl handed over a tiffin box and then near the forest where she handed over a huge bouquet of forest flowers. As Moti considered me like his mother, he pleaded with me not to mention his name if I ever discussed this matter with anyone. We were very happy for Billu."

     "The mother in me one day summoned Billu to my office, to which he immediately and happily came.
"How are you Billu? How have you been finding the job?" I asked him.
"I am fine Madam and I like my job. Why did you call me?" 
"It looks like you have been doing good in every way." I complemented him.
"It is all god's grace Madam and yours as well." He responded happily.
"But there has been some news going around the village about you off late." I teased him. At which his face tensed immediately. "It seems you have been seeing a girl every now and then." At this comment I glimpsed fear on his face for a moment which was in no time replaced by rage that I had not seen in him before.
"Madam what do you mean the news is all over the village and who is that bastard who let you know of this?" he roared.
I was taken aback on seeing him filled with anger. It looked like he would cut me into pieces that very instant.
"Hey relax. Why do you get angry? We are actually happy for you. I think this is the right age for you to get married. I hope your parents know about the affair. Who is this girl and where is she from? I brought this up as I am concerned about you."
It looked like his anger had reduced, but he was still disturbed and was by then intensely pondering about what I had said.
He then calmly replied. "I will let you know all about her when the time is right."
"Okey, you take care of yourself, In case you need any help regarding this you can always approach me." I put in a word of assurance to him. He left the room immediatly without a word. After that day Moti never saw Billu with the girl ever again. Surprisingly nor did Billu take the trouble of inquiring about it with Moti."

     "It was during this time that Raju and Shyam the boys from the 8th class went missing as they were coming to school through the forest. I got the shocking news the next day of their disappearance. It was Billu who came running into my room out of breath and spilled the news to me. He was in a lot of emotional pain as he liked the boys a lot and they treated him like their friend. The police from the village where the boys lived and from Oni started investigating the next day of their disappearance. They took the trouble of visiting the other villages that were close by as well. As the boys were from our school I was there at the police station at the police officers beck and call. Either Billu or Moti would drive me to the police station. The Police even managed to question Raju and Shyam's close friends and classmates as well".

     "Our school was in need of teachers. Not many people were ready to aquire a job in a school located in a far away village like Oni. Those who applied for the teachers job were not all good. So I was looking for a suitable candidate for the Teacher's post for the 8th and the 7th class. It's not like we didn't have teachers, we did, but I thought an extra hand would ease matters considerably for the rest of the Teachers. It seemed like God's grace that Venu walked into my office one fine morning." 
As Mrs. Sahu narrated this episode, she had a loving smile on her face. "Venu was in his mid 30's. I learnt that he had come to the village about four months ago along with his younger sister. He was a tall dark man with an athletic built; had a deadly gash across his face, which made his already stern face look fierce; had extremely short hair like there was hardly any on his head; well shaven chin and always appeared in smart plain clothes. He proved to be a very hard working man, worked dutifully and was extremely reserved, but was very observant. It looked like Billu didn't have a liking for Venu and they seemed to be at logger heads. But our Moti got along well with practically everybody. The students were scared of Venu by his very looks and so maintained a distance from him when they were outside the class. Venu was a conduct police to the students. He had caught children smoking beedies and cigarettes and had chided them. Fights between the students in the campus would come to an abrupt halt at the very sight of Venu. He proved to be a good Mathematics Teacher. The senior staff members always appreciated his good work as a teacher." 

     Now the Headmistress continued with a sigh, "Two months passed and there was no news of the missing boys. One morning Moti rushed into my office with yet another unfavorable news. He hurriedly let me know that two boys who were farmers at Oni had gone missing. They were absconding since two nights. It seems two days ago the boys had set out to the village of Kali which is located on the other side of the forest, and never returned. They were not the students of our school. The police were on high alert and wanted to leave no stone unturned; so they visited the school once again, spoke to me and they even enquired with the students about the missing farmers. It was then that I learnt that boys from Oni and the other villages have been going missing ever since the boys from the Oni Boys Middle School were reported absconding. It was believed that this must be the work of the militants."

     "It was during this time that Venu came to my office bringing forth the concerns of his sister, Tulsi," told Mrs. Sahu with a kind smile on her face. "He said that she was married and her husband was very abusive. She being a poor woman tolerated the physical pain meted out on her every single day. As Venu couldn't bear seeing this he brought her away to Oni along with him. She used to keep herself occupied by helping the women in the Cottage Industry in his absence. He asked me if she could be helped by giving her a job in the school as the English Teacher's post was still vacant.
I considered it for a moment but was sceptical about hiring a lady considering the attitude of the teachers as they were no women among them. 
I said, "no Venu, I don't think we would want a woman at present. Perhaps we could have considered if it were a man."
"Madam, her work is as good as a man's... more over she is a well educated lady."
"No Venu..."
Venu interrupted at once, "A good change will help her recover from her traumatic past. Please meet her Madam and then take a decision," told Venu beseechingly.
My heart always melts for women in trouble and I finally agreed to meet her."

     "The jingle from the anklets were loud and clear and that was enough to harp her arrival. Tulsi walked into my office along with her brother with her head bowed and was covered with a floral printed shawl. She was dressed in a salwar kameez. The scars of the wounds on her arms were quite visible. "Madam this is my sister, Tulsi," said Venu introducing me to his sister who was a tall, fair, athletic built and a handsome lady who had no resemblance to her fierce looking brother in any manner. 
"Namaste Madam!" she greeted me.
"Do you think you will be able to work in a boys school?" I asked her.
"As long as I am not tortured and my life is spared I can work any where," she replied meekly. 
Seeing her plight and her innocence, my heart went out for her. After a few minutes of talk, I decided to hire her for the post of English Teacher." 

     With a sigh the Headmistress continued, "In the initial days I found her to be lethargic as she used to come to work at her free will and return home early as soon as she was done with her class.  I found this attitude annoying. More over the other Teachers had started complaining of her irregularity.
'Why can't she follow a system of conduct like the rest of the staff? Did I make a mistake by hiring her?!' I wondered.
None the less, she was a good teacher. 
Billu had tried convincing me to let go of Tulsi, saying that he had seen her talking to the army men in the village a couple of times. That was something which none of the others witnessed and nor did I. Anyways, it was a known fact that Billu and Venu were at logger heads and now with Venu's sister around, Billu was obviously irritated. But still I decided to warn the young lady.
"Tulsi, I have every intention of transferring you to the Cottage Industry. You can help the women there at your convenience. You coming to the school at your own sweet time will not help. You have been teaching well, no doubt, but your casual behavior sets a bad example to the staff working with you. Let me know if you can come to work and leave on time. We already have enough of people working for our school. I took pity on you and hired you. Is this the way you repay back? How outrageous!" I growled at her one morning. 
She stood in front of me with her head bent and her eyes down cast. 
She finally blurted out with a meek voice "I'll be on time for work Madam. It's just that I have been having some pending work to complete at the Cottage Industry. 
After this episode she arrived and left on time. But once in a while would leave home early. She seemed to be a nice lady who would work hard, but was very fierce if the students tried to behave naughty. Like brother was sister."

     "After the boys of Oni went missing, in a week's time the village witnessed army personals riding in their vehicles into the village. There was news that the militants were spotted in the near by villages. They had been terrorizing the villagers with their demands and recruiting young boys into their group. We were informed that they had already waded into the village of Oni and there was also a possibility for them to have inhabited the forest. We were told that any kind of suspicious activities should be brought to the notice of the army personals or the village police. It was made clear that the objective of the militant group was to root out all illegal immigrants living in the villages of Odisha. Fortunately there was no sign of chaos and peace pervaded in our village until then."

     "The army personals often walked the students through the forest till their village and the other areas while they had a hawks eye on the area that they traded. There didn't seem to be any missing cases reported ever since the army personals arrival. But sadly the missing boys were never found. That was quite intriguing. For about four months everything in the village went well. It was the yearly picnic day at the school. It was a part of the academics to take the children to the city market; the city museum; the places of worship and the amusement park. The picnic was arranged for the 8th class students to the city museum and the city market. The following week it was the turn of the 7th class students to places of worship and the amusement park. On the day of the picnic the 8th class students were excited and jostled into the picnic bus. They were accompanied by Mr. Tyagraj Mishra the Senior Teacher, Venu and Billu. In addition two soldiers volunteered to tag along for security reasons. It was that day that a whole lot of atrocious events took place. Mr Mishra was a part of that fateful day and probably he will be able to recount the events well."
The Headmistress summoned Mr. Mishra who was taking up a Science class and who was almost done with it. Dismissing the class for lunch he hurriedly ran towards the Headmistress's room to address the concern. When the Headmistress let him know why he was called, he thought, "Not Again!". Reluctantly he started recounting the heinous events that he had encountered to the Officers.

     Mr. Mishra said, "there was a lot of singing, fun and frolic as we were travelling. Master Venu and Billu also joined in the fun. But the soldiers kept a vigilant watch, one standing at the door and the other at the wind screen. Our first stop was at the museum."
The Mahanadi Museum was surrounded by lush greenery with every kind of flora and fauna grown around it. Small sized placards with words DO NOT PLUCK THE FLOWERS were placed near every flowering plant. The museum was a big building with only the ground floor and the first floor in it. The ground floor had the historic artifacts; the zoology section which had housed a stuffed animal area and the prehistoric section; the chemistry and the physics section was on the top floor.
"Master Venu's presence kept the boys well behaved at the museum." continued Mr. Mishra, "It was afternoon around 12 by the time we were coming down the staircase to move out of the museum. We heard the gun shots outside the building and soon there was a commotion in the street. Billu deemed it fit for all of us to move into the zoology department in particular into the stuffed animals section. Master Venu who was in the process of evaluating the situation mentally, played along with Billu. We caught a glimpse of the masked men running around the building holding sophisticated big guns and other ammunition. Being a week day there were no other visitors to the museum except for the students of Oni, the school staff and the two soldiers who stood outside the building. We could hear men running into the museum. A masked man with a gun in his hand came running to the stuffed animal section and pointing the gun towards us in a fierce voice asked everyone to sit down on the floor and not move or speak, if not everyone would meet our end soon. As this was happening three more masked men appeared at the door. We were all aware of the fact that we were at the mercy of the dreadful militants. All of a sudden there was the sound of bullets being fired and of a bomb explosion. The explosion shook the building. The children were scared and so was I; so much so some of the children started crying. We saw the militants running back from where they had come. While this was in play, Billu our children's hero ran towards the door. Immediately Master Venu ran after him. 
"You are not going anywhere," growled Master Venu. 
Some of the students asked them to return in hushed tones fearing for their life. We could see Master Venu had caught hold of Billu and Billu was fighting hard to free himself. All of a sudden we saw Master Venu pointing a pistol at Billu. We were all shocked as to what was happening. I didn't expect this and nor did the children. I asked the children to keep quite. I didn't have the courage to interfere as I had no idea what the consequences would be and was also scared for the children's lives. Billu stood in front of Master Venu not in fright but mentally planning how to trick him as to escape.  It seemed like the one whom we thought was our friend turned out to be a foe. Pointing the gun at Billu, Master Venu bellowed at us, "Stay low and away from the window."   
At that very moment Billu had seized the opportunity and pulled out his revolver pointing at Master Venu. 
"Kill him Billu," shouted a student. 
By then we could hear the sounds of running boots towards our room. We were stunned as we saw bullets being sprayed at Master Venu and he did not let go of the chance to shoot a few bullets into Billu before collapsing on the floor. Billu made attempts to run and fell on the ground meeting his end. We were all petrified on witnessing the horrific events. Everything seemed to happen all of a sudden. The children had huddled together on the ground out of fright and were crying uncontrollably. I was so stunned on seeing how life could end in no time, that my mind had stopped working. Two of the masked men came at the door and scanned the room, "this will happen to you as well if you try to escape," said one of them and locked the room from outside blocking the view of the dead friend and a foe. We were all filled with dread as we were held hostages. A lot of our questions remained unanswered. There was no room to escape as the militants were practically everywhere." 

     "Bullets were being fired outside the museum and some of the bullets managed to whiz into the room and hit a few stuffed animals. Meanwhile the students prayed fervently for their dear life and for the commotion to stop. There were two more explosions heard, bullets being sprayed and men running up and down the staircase of the museum. We didn't dare to move from our place. It was getting dark and we once again heard the heavy booted footsteps. I asked the students to maintain pin drop silence as we didn't know what was in our fate this time. Once again men walked into the large room with guns in hand, but they were not masked. We realised they were the army personals. Very courteously they escorted all of us out of the building and into the army vehicle. As we moved out, we saw the bullets still stuck in the walls of the building; blood on the ground and walls; plants in the garden trampled, trees on fire being extinguished; dead bodies of the militants being carried away; wounded soldiers being nursed; and the picnic bus that was torched by the militants being extinguished by the fire fighters. After witnessing the dreadful events of the day we were finally relieved to be returning home alive and were in tears of joy. We conveyed our heartfelt gratitude to the soldiers. The two soldiers who had accompanied us in the morning were no where to be seen. Probably they were dead. It was night when all the sixty five students were brought back to the village. Their parents were waiting frantically and were overwhelmed on seeing their young ones safe and alive." As Mr. Mishra finished narrating, he wiped away his tears.

     The Educational Officers and the Headmistress conveyed their thanks to the brave and kind teacher. The Headmistress asked Mr. Mishra to stay back for lunch, which he kindly declined and moved out of the room. At the same time the Heaadmistress recived a call from the Police Officer Ruchi Roa saying that she will see them after an hour and that she will not be dining with them in the afternoon. The same was informed to the Educational Officers by the Headmistress after which lunch was ordered for the trio.
Mrs. Sahu resumed her narration, "While there was chaos and mayhem in the museum, some of the militants kept the villagers praying for their dear lives as they had infiltrated into the Cottage Industry at Oni. Unfortunately most of the soldiers had gone to the museum to fight the militants. I realised that during troubled times like these, God sends his savior. Our Tulsi who had gone to the Cottage Industry saw a masked militant and that too a lady hold a gun at an industry worker's head. The militant had back up from the other members of her group as well. It seems about ten men were in and around the building. The women workers were terrified and in tears. The few soldiers who were left behind in the village took action and attacked the militants. I was told that with sheer wit and courage our Tulsi pulled out a gun hidden in her garment and shot at the militant's wrist that held the gun. The lady militant did not expect this. The hostage villager fainted and fell down. Tulsi captured the lady militant who was  whining in pain and took control of the situation. Unfortunately the lady militant was quick in swallowing a cyanide capsule that was tied around her neck. She died on the spot. The women in the Industry were literally shaken." 

     "Our Tulsi turned out to be a Police Officer herself who was in disguise all the time, watching over the village. It was much later that I learnt that her late arrival to work and her early departure from school was all because she was tracking the militants. I feel guilty that I yelled at a friend and a savior for her leniency with her work at school, not realising she was no ordinary villager. But she being aware of what she had got into told me very kindly, "If I were in your place, I would have done the same. So please don't worry." She might look tough from the outside but has the best of human qualities within." By the time Mrs. Sahu finished her narration there was food brought by Moti.

     After a hearty meal, Mrs. Singh asked, "Tulsi turned out to be a Police Officer, that's very good, but I don't understand her relationship with the assassin Venu. What was that all about?"
Mrs. Sahu promptly replied, "I am still not done with my narration Mrs. Singh. After the horrendous events, we were asked to keep the school closed till the condition was brought under control and safe for the school to resume. It was closed for three months. When the school commenced, 73 students had dropped out of school as they lived in villages far away and were scared for their dear life. We decided not to have any picnics for the students for a long time. Two days after the attack, news about it in detail went up on the news paper. Our Head Teacher Mr. Mishra was helpful in revealing a lot about Billu and Venu's activities in school and the day of the attack. When I opened the newspaper to read about the tragic events and the deceit, I was shell shocked to see the photos of Billu and Venu in it. Under Billu's photo was the caption, 'Tiku Som aka Billu, Militant Master Mind of the Oni Village Operation'. Under Venu's photo was the caption 'Police Officer Altaf Nayak'. It was a sad revelation that we despised a friend and befriended an enemy. I still wonder what a strange world we live in! How do we trust anybody? The militants had planned to hold the children hostage. They were not Al Queda or the All Tripura Tiger Force, but the militants seemed to be a budding group and they were going around recruting young boys into their clan. It seems Venu had doubts about Billu from the beginning, said Tulsi. But Billu out smarted the Police and hence was not caught by them. Police Officers both Venu and Tulsi being brave hearts managed their work very efficiently. We are all very grateful to them." 

     "Moti was the one who was shaken the most as he was the one who had introduced Billu to the school. He felt very guilty for putting the entire school in danger. The Police squad put him through hours of interrogation. He was scared to death. The school staff knew he was innocent. He had gone into depression. Counselling for two months revived him to a great extent. He still has to get over his fears and anxieties. We were all worried for him and his sister. Moti is the only Office Assistant at present in our school as we did not muster the courage to hire anyone else. Even if we do, we shall consider those men who have been born and brought up in Oni for the job."

     The Headmistress further said, " It was revealed to us that Raju, Shyam and two other boys who had gone missing from the village had joined the militant group. During the encounter at the museum it seems Raju lost his life. The other children are still absconding.  The lady whom Moti had spotted a couple of times with Billu turned out to be the militant who was shot by Tulsi at the Cottage Industry. It seems she used to smuggle arms and ammunitions to Billu. And we mistook it for a love affair. Billu's room mates were also militants who had managed to brain wash a mechanic, a carpenter and the lorry driver in their place of employment. All of them have evaded the village. Billu's land owner out of fright has stopped renting out the room to outsiders." Heaving a long sad sigh, she resumed, "It is so sad that Billu kept every one in good humor and secretly recruited the children into his god foebidden gang. He turned out to be a traitor. But not many were fond of Venu. The man brought in discipline among the students by his very presence and imbibed good values in them. He sacrificed his life for us. He was a true friend." As Mrs. Sahu ended her sentence she pointed towards a garlanded framed photo that hung on the adjacent wall in her room. It bore the photograph of a serious face of a man with a gash across it, who was dressed in the prestigious police uniform. Looking at it she said with tears in her eyes, "My deep respect to our Venu, Police Officer Altaf Nayak."     

     As Mrs. Sahu wiped her tears Mr. Mohanty asked, "But Madam, why did Venu and Tulsi have to be in disguise?" 
"It's just that they didn't want the militants to know that they were spying on them. They didn't want to scare the villagers or anyone by disclosing their real identity. More over the militants had made their presence felt in some of the other villages by their ruthless behavior. The Police Officers had doubts that there was something vicious brewing within the village of Oni and as it had first surfaced by the school boys going missing, all doubts were cleared. Sadly the Police Department had a tough time capturing the Militant Master Mind inspite of him walking in front of them freely day in and day out. It was then that Venu and Tulsi were handed over the responsibility to look into the matter."  

     As the Headmistress finished her narration, Mrs. Singh asked, "Now when Venu is no more, where is Officer Tulsi?"
"Oh! She was deported to the city to handle less dangerous job. She was even awarded for her bravery. We are all proud of her! She has been..." 
At this moment there was a knock on the door and Police Officer Ruchi Rao entered the room. "Ready to leave officers?" she asked the Educational Officers. At this all the three stood up as the duo were ready to leave.
"Mrs. Sahu..." started the Police Officer, "...I was caught up with my work and hence couldn't be around. It looks like the village is safe at present. There have been no missing cases either in Oni or the surrounding villages. But please keep the army personnels informed in case you are to hire any new staff." With a sweet smile on her handsome face she continued, "I had my food at the Cottage Industry. Laxmi Didi went home and prepared my favourite sweet dish just for me; Dali and Hema prepared wheat bread and vegetable dish. The women complained that I should have let them know of my arrival in a day's advance. I feel blessed that I am loved so much and they still remember me."
To which Mrs. Sahu very lovingly put a hand on the Police Officer's shoulder and said, "How can our village forget our brave and much loved Tulsi? You have saved the life of those innocent women, for which we are all much grateful to you." Looking at Mrs. Singh she further says, "Here stands in front of you the answer to your question."

                                                    ***THE END***