Part 3:-
The slowly dying spark to live had ignited again. The tears stopped. He knew that he was a true soldier and didn't have to prove it to anyone. But he was grateful, grateful that Naina still trusted and believed him. She had not forsaken him. His weakness and strength- she was both. He slowly got his act together and got up. He observed her. She had lost weight and appeared more physically fit. At this point Major Nair's words struck him. His cadet had once again made the impossible possible. What was her rank in the army he wondered? Did she win the Best Cadet's title? Was Navin proven innocent? Was she married? If yes, then to whom? How were the other cadets? The most important question which kept hounding him was that didn't she feel awkward being with him after he was charged with the crime of passion that was to love her. Whatever be her state of mind, he couldn't help feel proud at the thought of her still sticking on to the principles she had nurtured due to his and Navin's help.
Naina could feel his intent look and perceive the inquisitiveness. His rugged, unshaven look made him look more handsome. His unrefined gaze made her heart do summersaults. She felt a blush creeping up her neck. She felt shy. Then suddenly reality struck her. They could never be together. His present condition was all due to her and she couldn't afford to bring more sorrows in his life than that had already been in store for him.
The peace was broken by the guard coming up and informing that her time was up. Neither of them wanted to be away from the other. Even after four years, the bond they shared was pure, strong and had stood the test of time. He was going to be transferred to Almora tomorrow. More than that he had no idea about the case. He didn't know whether he had a lawyer or had to do defend himself. But he knew whatever happened Naina would always stand by him. Before leaving, Naina gave him a small photo of 'Guru Nanak'. This action of hers stunned him. She prayed for him with a heavy heart and then left. They were going to need all the positive vibes and blessings in this mission.
Two days later:-
He had adorned a black, classical suit and was waiting in the court's outer room where he was told that all the required data would be given to him. It was He had not seen Naina for the past 2 days and it made him restless. He was soon lost in thoughts. He was broken out of his reverie at the sound of footsteps nearing him. He turned and his face broke into a smile. There standing in front of him was his favorite batch of students. All dressed in their respective army attire. Huda looked as dashing as ever. But he could see a slight pain lurking behind those dancing, twinkling curtains. Yudi had become a bit more full-bodied. Ali still retained the innocence and looked as smart as ever. Pooja still looked the same – smitten by mobile phones. But his eyes searched for the other two. All understood his restive condition but did not do anything to put him out of his twitchiness. After a lot or reunion and questions, Raj asked them who was going to defend him but none knew and tension prevailed. Alekh had told them that he would look into this manner but he wasn't here. Soon Raj was called for the hearing and he took his place. Captain Salve in the prosecution looked as vicious as other.
He could see his so called Mentor – Gehlot sitting on the benches putting up a faade of sympathy. How he wanted to wipe that fake smug expression but restricted himself. He had to act ignorant and he would. The judge took his seat on the podium and called for silence. The hearing then started.
Captain Salve stood up and started – "Sir, This case which has been unfortunately reopened has no base and is just claiming retrial to let the guilty off his sentence. It is just wastage of time. It has already been proved that it is a crime of passion and there can't be any other alternative to it so as to debate. The method and motive have been proved before i.e. to win the lady's love."
The judge asked, "Where's the defence's lawyer or are you doing your own defence as per as the previous occurrence."
Rajveer was at a loss of words. He didn't know what was happening. Naina and Alekh had not yet arrived. He hoped that they were safe and nothing had happened to them. And all the remaining students had absolutely no idea.
After a couple of minutes he was about to answer when he was rudely being cut of Captain Salve's censorious remarks – "Sir, they haven't even come prepared and a re-trial and has been called for. It's absolutely unethical of Captain Sharma and his associate to demand such an opportunity."
The Judge ordered-"If the defence doesn't arrive within an hour, the case will be discarded. The court is adjourned for the time being"
Panic slowly made its ways through Rajveer's veins.
An hour later:-
Captain Salve gave her usual taunting smirk before beginning and said "The time is up, Sir. I think this case doesn't need your undivided attention."
A strong voice rang around the room-
"Not so soon, Captain. By the end of the trial, the case will not only arrest the judge's attention but also the whole of the country's armed forces."
