The Rogue Agent

Chapter 6: Pathan's Decision

The low hum of Delhi's morning traffic was a distant murmur in the background as Pathan sat in the dimly lit study of Vikram Khanna's sprawling farmhouse. The room was a testament to the spymaster's long and storied career-shelves lined with books on military strategy and intelligence operations, framed photographs of world leaders, and an antique globe that had seen better days. But the most telling artifacts were the scars on Vikram's weathered face, each one a silent witness to battles fought in the shadows.

Pathan, however, was not here for a history lesson. He was here to make a decision that would change the course of his life-and perhaps the fate of the nation.

Vikram Khanna sat across from him, his piercing eyes studying Pathan with the intensity of a chess grandmaster contemplating his next move. The old man had been a father figure to Pathan, shaping him into the agent he had become, and his influence was still strong. Pathan had come here seeking guidance, knowing that Vikram was the only person who could help him navigate the moral and emotional minefield of the mission before him.

But Pathan also knew that Vikram wouldn't sugarcoat the truth. He never had.

The silence between them stretched, heavy with unspoken words. Finally, Vikram leaned forward, his voice low and gravelly. "You've always had a strong sense of duty, Pathan. It's what made you one of the best. But I can see that this mission is different for you. It's personal."

Pathan nodded, his gaze fixed on the worn wood of the table between them. "Tiger and I... we were more than just colleagues. We were brothers. I don't know if I can look him in the eye and bring him in. And if I can't bring him in, then what? Kill him?"

Vikram's eyes softened, a rare display of emotion from the man who had seen more death than most could imagine. "It's a difficult position, I won't lie. But you need to understand something, Pathan. This isn't just about you and Tiger. His actions are pushing two countries to the brink of war. If you don't stop him, the consequences could be catastrophic."

Pathan clenched his fists, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. "I know that, but it doesn't make it any easier. I owe him my life, Vikram. How can I betray him now?"

Vikram leaned back in his chair, his gaze unwavering. "Sometimes, the hardest choices are the ones that define us. Tiger made his choice when he decided to go rogue, when he started killing innocent people in his quest for vengeance. You're not betraying him, Pathan. You're doing what needs to be done to protect the greater good."

Pathan looked up, meeting Vikram's eyes. The old man's words cut through the fog of doubt and confusion that had clouded his mind. Deep down, Pathan knew Vikram was right. The mission wasn't about personal loyalty-it was about preventing a disaster that could engulf millions.

"You trained him, just like you trained me," Pathan said quietly. "You know what he's capable of. If I go after him, it won't be like any other mission."

Vikram's face hardened, his voice steely. "I trained you both, and I know that if anyone can bring him in, it's you. But you need to be prepared for the possibility that this mission might end differently than you hope."

The implication hung in the air, heavy and ominous. Pathan didn't need Vikram to spell it out-he understood all too well what the old man was saying. Bringing Tiger in alive might not be possible. And if it wasn't, Pathan would have to do the unthinkable.

After a long pause, Pathan exhaled slowly, the tension easing from his shoulders as he made his decision. "I'll do it. But I'll need your help, Vikram."

A faint smile touched Vikram's lips, the closest he ever came to showing approval. "You'll have it. Whatever you need."

Pathan nodded, the resolve in his eyes unmistakable. He knew the road ahead would be fraught with danger and heartache, but he also knew that he had no other choice. The hunt for Tiger had begun, and Pathan would see it through to the end-no matter the cost.