The Enemy Within

Chapter 7

January 1994, Dehradun

The Doon School for boys is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country. They adhere to a strict selection process and handpick their students who are then groomed to be some of the best and brightest in the country.

Rohan was shortlisted as he aced the competitive written examination, but he then failed miserably in the interview. His application was all but rejected, when the principal got to know about his background. His interview was taken again the next day, and this time the questions were more sensitive. The principal kept a keen eye on the boy and his reactions. He impressed with his maturity but also came across as stubborn and obstinate. Finally, much to the relief of Rohan's grandparents, the principal decided the boy deserved a seat in the prestigious school.

But school didn't begin too well for Rohan – who got into more than his fair share of playground fights, often with boys elder to him. He never complained if he got beaten up, but mostly gave better than he got. One day he saw his classmate being picked on by a group of elder boys. He saw him stand up to them and he decided to join in the fight to even the odds. Together the two of them got the better of 6 elder students.

The classmate's name was Rahul Kumar and soon he and Rohan became best of friends, always looking out for each other. As the years past, their friendship became famous in the school and they became known as "The Terrible Twins" who no one dared to mess with. Their friendship extended to their families and when Rohan's grandparents passed away, the Kumar's made sure he never felt alone.

Holidays were spent together and the two boys became as close as brothers. They leaned heavily on each other for emotional support.

Rohan needed some grounding in his life; as he had no family left in the world while Rahul felt neglected as his parent's were always moving across the country, due to his father's army postings. They played sports together, went on treks together and excelled in both studies and outdoor activities. Both were on course to a bright future after graduating from those hallowed halls.