AneStory

                       It was end of exam, all had studied seriously, and keeping all thoughts of trip aside and it was a short vacation, before college would start again. But all Hera could think of was a nice trip to Mahabaleshwar, and this time, whole gang was going to be there and there were enough bikes for them all to go! 

                       Unknown to Hera, some plans were being made! Hera had backpack ready, was going to make a call when Monc comes and were going to take off, along with others, or maybe next day morning. Now that Monc, Rack and Rocky had also got bikes, it was going to be lot easier to meet up anywhere anytime, and go anywhere anytime.

                       And while Hera was packing bag, Monc walked in to announce, about movie plan. Hera was lost, did not get it. 

                      Monc: "It’s not possible to go to Mahabaleshwar, we cannot afford it"

                      Hera:  "Afford?"

                      Monc: "Well, yes, none of the girls have talked about contributing the money!"  

                      Hera: "Yeah! Then, why movie?"

                      Monc: "We are going to test it out, there reaction on asking for contribution."  

                      Hera:  "Whose idea is this? Nice idea!"

                      Monc: "Rack's."

                      Hera:  "What are we going to watch, which movie?"

                      Monc: "U would not like that! Sathiya!"

                      Hera:  "Man! What! That's going to be third time! That would be wastage of money!"

                      Monc: "We have no other option! Hope they dont learn about our financing of first time."

                      Hera: Things of 2 weeks before pass in front of his eyes. "Rack the fool! Cant he have made some other movie plan!"

                      Around about a week before the trip to Junnar, a prestigious issue had unfolded! Monc and Hera decided to give Pee a treat and along came Tee and Priyu. The five of them were final list, it was not disclosed to others. At that time Monc did not have bike so girls were going to come by auto and Hera and Monc by bike. And it was decded, Monc and Hera would get the tickets booked in advance, and so they did. 

                     So Hera and Monc rode to multiplex, booked tickets for an evening show and rode back to room and disaster struck! Hera rode the bike, trying to cut traffic at high speed right into a Maruti 800. And the Boxer's leg guard got stuck in front bumper and tearing it out!

                     While Hera and Monc flew right over the ongoing traffic, and fell on other side of road. Monc did not get hurt, surprising though; he had flown over Hera and fell further away. Hera got hurt, Monc's 1.5 Kg shoe came undone and fell right on Hera's back.

                     They both got up, went to watch the bike, and were devastated to see whole of front thing gone, no head lamp, totally new design of handle and Car's driver turned out to be lawyer, asking money from Hera for the bumper! Hera got really scared, did not have any papers for the bike! Was about to fall apart, but Monc just fought him off, verbally, and arranged a trade.

                     Monc was held at ransom while Hera drove the broken Boxer to his room, got Rs. 800 to pay the lawyer, then they put the bike for repair and rushed the mechanic. Who, like any angel in this era, extorted Rs 2.5 K for duplicate Head lamp apparatus and another Rs. 1.5 K for the handle! 

                     Still, unshaken, the two rode to room, got changed real quick, called girls to meet at multiplex directly, picked up flowers, it was Pee's birthday, and reached just in time. They had not learned any lesson about speed and crossing and had near disaster in the parking, when a car reversed and the two entered suddenly! 

                     As they landed in front of gate, the gals showed up, Pee was wished and presented the flowers.  And they entered to watch the movie. In interval, as courtesy Monc asked if they would like anything and they opted for Popcorn. Hera and Monc went outside and got in line to get Popcorn, while Monc bought cold-drink for all, Hera was confused to see so many types of popcorn, and opted for Caramel flavored popcorn of all, 5 large buckets, filled to brim.

                    They were hated by all, the sweet-caramel popcorn. In end they made it too girls hostel, and every girl got to eat some, and hear about how to guys had treated the ladies like gentlemen!

                   When Crack heard about all this, and also came to know about accident, because he saw it. He blackmailed a treat out of Hera and Monc, and yes it included the Sathiya at same multiplex and the dreaded caramel popcorn.                      

                   And if that treat were to backfire, now was the time, it was New Years Eve, Girls wanted mahabaleshwar, but guys had said, it has to be stopover, and due to vacation time, all lodges are booked. So it’s not possible, then they had settled for a movie at new multiplex! Movie Sathiya, else it had to be trip to somewhere.

                   Monc switched of his cell phone and both took off on bike to avoid going to book tickets in advance and it worked. Taklya had to go, who paid for tickets and girls paid him back. Monc made a call to Taklya and got details of the plan, and they settled to join them directly at multiplex, and thats what they did.

                   But, however cleverly they had avoided to pay for tickets, at interval, there fear caught up, and were asked to pay for the; yes cold-drink and caramel flavoured popcorn! And pay they did.

                   And after movie, they ended up in a traffic where people were not able to move an inch, and hence ended up parking their respective vehicles and go for dinner, it was already 10:00 in night, there was going to be big issue at girls hostel for night out.

                  After having anxious moments by girls over hostel, for another hour, while they were still in the queue for dinner, Hera spotted a faculty, and pointed her out to girls. Rest, the girls took care of, got a letter done, granting them permission for late night entry into hostel, on a side walk. Paper was provided by Monc.

                 At-last it was dinner time, at 11:30, they got entry into a restaurant, it was Chinese one, and as they were going in, a poor child approached Hera, and at first, Hera thought him to be a beggar, but he was selling balloons, and Hera bought them all, which he should not have done. Cause next thing, all girls took the balloons out of Hera's hand and one of them lost it and went straight to ceiling, and next thing girl was on table trying to catch it, Monc shouted her down, and Hera got on table and got the balloon, he was right choice for the job, not only was he tall, but he was lightest of the lot.   

               Once dinner was served and balloons tied to chairs, all settled a bit, after dinner it was quick run to room, in between dropping of the girls. And Good night, and Happy new year! 

               Tomorrow starts the new semester. Luckily, Taklya never asked Hera and Monc the money for tickets, but latter they realized, it totaled less than Cold-drinks and Caramel popcorn they bought! 

                   That week except for Hera, everyone was tensed, and could not concentrate on the subject at hand, and it was only a week now to papers, crunch time! Taklya rounded of all guys one evening, girls had gone home already, it was a cold evening. And asked: “If all are able to study, if not, then it’s time to go for a small outing”. All agreed.

                  Hera thought for a moment and said, as such no girl will be coming, why dont we go now, as such none of you are able to study at present. We have 3 bikes here, looking at smoky and Taklya need just 1 more. Thats when Teep came in, he had a bike so crew was ready to leave within an hour.

                  Food was, whatever mom had sent for as Pharsan/chiwda etc, was packed into a sack. Three 1.5 liter water bottles were taken, and seating position on bikes was taken. Here Teep says, "But I dont drive that well!" Hence, after much deliberation, Monc was supposed to drive the Teep's bike and Teep sat behind Hera. Taklya and Vin on one and Smoky and Rocky on one. Hence, Monc picked up Rack. So crew was all set and started off.

                  They took off, close to 7:00 in evening, on way tanked up on petrol and started driving, Taklya was driving ahead and all others were following. Where were they going? No one knew except for Taklya, but not near any river/lake, as advised by Hera, that day was cold, night will be cooler. 

                  After driving for about 2 hours, Hera felt they are really going away! That was too early, they were two hours on highway, and at last he asked Taklya. Answer was we are going to this place, which is high on a mountain, and Shivaji Maharaj had born there. Great choice thought Hera. But would not it be colder over there. Still, they continued. 

                  They reached Junnar at around 1:00 - 1:30 in night. Reached up, till where bikes can go at around 2:00 parked their bikes. And, now question was “What to do?” 

                  Taklya: "We can explore the place."

                  Smoky: "We don’t have Torch, and it’s awfully dark here." 

                  Taklya: "What? You people dint bring torch" Lighting his up.

                  Monc: "Did you tell anyone, where we are going!" Taklya did not say anything, did not get a chance.

                  Teep: "Run." Full on scream!

                  But no one does, for all are petrified. Hera, is calm, reads the sign, which made Teep scream.

"Danger! Beware of Panthers."

None of them had anything to say, just stared at Taklya. Who:

               "You people don't have anything to fear, I will be first to be attacked, I am fattest among all." 

On that note, everyone decided to sleep in the veranda of the Temple which was there little ahead. Made a make shift bed of shawls, luckily they had packed extra. And went to sleep. Teep had picked up a nice long stick, to which even local dog was not afraid off, forget Panther, but that was the intention.

               That was the shortest night of Hera, he was up, and everyone else, were up at 4:30, with 1st sign of sun-rays. It was beautiful scene, seeing sun rise. They went on exploring, a bit of trekking, and lot of fun, and some learning. Hera felt like eating, but he was told its not allowed over here, but then they had not brought any either. Hera defensively:” not here, when we get down then, on a dhaba.”  

               After staying till about 11:00, they moved on to have a look at Lenyadri and Ozharkar - 2 of the Ashtavinayak's and before night were back at home making a round trip of about 500 Kms on bike, and all worry gone, refreshed, they were back to studying ways. That night they did have Chicken Tandoori, so much for visiting Temples.                                  

                   Look closely, thats how Hera's group looked like in terms of relationship to an outsider. Too confusing and too complicated to interpret ones take on others statement. Lots of emotions were at lose. And most involved Question of Love Over Friendship.

                    Simplification of Diagram:

                    Lines:

                               Red: Genuine Love Interest.

                               Red Dotted: Others thought, the interest is there.

                               Lilac: Friendship.

                   Dots are people.

                   Hera - Black

                   Monc - Maroon 

                   Tee - Dark Green

                   Pee - Blue

                   Smoky - Purple

                   Wari - Yellow

                   Junior gal - Light Green

                   Rocky - Grey

                   Taklya - Lilac

                   Vin - Brown

                   Vee - Orange

                   Duds - Pink

                   Rack - Pale Yellow.

          Okay diagram seems to be not helping, it did not help Hera either, when he was discussing it with Monc, Rack and Smoky. Rack and Smoky being the eyes outside the group, mostly.

          Hence following equations can be gathered, only Love related equations are considered, those are of most interest to Hera. Starting with Hera 

          Hera Likes Junior Gal, people think he likes Tee & Wari. 

          Rocky Likes junior gal & Wari, people think he likes Duds

          This implies, Hera on collision course with Rocky.

          Taklya Likes Vee and Duds.

          Hence, Taklya verses Rocky possible. 

          Vin Likes Vee.

          Hence, Taklya and Vin on colision course.

          Vee likes Monc.

          Hence Monc Vs. Vin 

          Duds people think likes Rocky and Hera.

          Wari People think likes Hera.

          Duds vs. Wari possible.

          Monc likes Pee. Line clear.

          Hence one proposal in wrong lane could disintegrate the group in moments.

Hera was using different way, this time. This made Hera draw doodles, do abstract equations and make unusual faces. Being preparative leave, study was all, that all did, and thought that's all what all did. Most people had started thinking Hera was some eccentric genius, who does not rest his brain for fear of losing his thoughts. In other words; a topper material, who will never be. Even more better words, simply stupid and absent minded.

                Everything had now calmed down, all election, kidnapping and cancellation hoopla had calmed down. As a result, Hera had found new closeness with his friends. After all they had cared for him, dearly. So, Hera was spending more and more time with them. And was learning more and more about them.

                It was very intriguing experience for him; he was watching people for 1st time and realizing they were different too. Sometimes, it becomes too close for comfort and to close to manage without being misunderstood or slip in the flow. Or end up learning some things that can really change one's perception towards the other. 

                Hera, ended up knowing to well, who was like what. Found Monc to be living in present. Good, he remained happy for most of time, was charming to every girl, nowadays. But seemed shallow, for often would forget what he had said two days back. But, then it was not that he did not mean it, he really had bad memory when it came to conversation.

                Vin, was volatile, could easily be ticked off. Temper was always high with him. Smoky was aloof, always, smoke was most important to him, and then his bike. Rack was bit of a guru kind, being older than others. While Rocky is just opposite, he was most fun loving and fun being with, because of his ability to entertain, but had a serious side when needed.

                Duds was a duds, she was very intelligent in her Indian way, was 1st ranker in her stream and used to get distinctions, but had her dumb moments when in intense discussions. Vee was lost, not in her career but in her life.

                Taklya, was enigma in itself, he was most difficult to understand, but once his layers were opened, to Hera, he seemed most dubious of the lot, but not harmful in any way. On other hand Wari was very clear in her thought and frank, there was little difference in what she thought and what she said, it was due to some control she was learning to exercise, because everyone said so.

    Wari's frankness and small height brought Hera close to her. Frankness is quite simple to understand, as Hera too was quite frank. But Wari's short height meant she had to travel sitting behind Hera, as BOXER was comfortable for her. This led others to think that Hera and Wari were going out. 

                On other hand, Hera was having worrying thoughts about who is or wants to be close to whom, he feared the group would disintegrate. 

             Hera woke up next day to find Rack chatting one of his friend from other college, and ended up joining them for a trip to nearby camping spot. And went straight away, to the scenic place, did not think of asking anyone to accompany, cause already seats ad filled up. Rack accompanied Hera on his BOXER.

             Meanwhile elections for GS were on in college and all toppers had to be present for elections, because one of them would become GS. So Duds and Rocky were busy in that. When they were rounded off, and given a briefing in secrecy, which frightened them. Elections are never clean, were asked to vote for particular candidate, and not to enter there name in the fray.

            Hera was having fun in jungle, going on trekking, for the first time since start of bachelors. Was enjoying his life, something to take his mind off, that sweet girl and her last look to him, when she entered that lab. There was a river flowing somewhere down and its noise was calming factor too. Sometimes too much of external noise can calm down the internal twisters. 

            Monc after meeting Duds and Rocky was frantically searching for Hera, something was extremely wrong. 

            Rack and Hera had made a stop in between along with others to pack lunch, which they were having now, tandoori chicken was awesome while kababs had got cold and were not tasting that good. And yes there was nothing carried that can be called roti/chapati or as such bread. It was pure chicken lunch! Nothing, else.

            They managed to get some sleep after reaching the river and after that had a gala time playing in water, it was shallow, Hera did not know swimming, hence remained quite near to the shore.

            Monc told something to Smoky in a closed room, Smoky relaid it to Vee on her mobile, she quietly went to meet a faculty and told her what was concerning her, Monc, Rocky, Duds and Smoky. She was surprised to hear what had happened and straight away went to meet college principal. An emergency meeting was called, but was kept totally secret.

           Rack and Hera started their way back along with others, were really exhausted by the time they made it to bike, but it was worth it. They started riding back to room, feeling guilty over missed day of study.

            Next, election took place as scheduled and, Duds and Rocky did what they were told. Felt miserable and were thinking of what to do next. Sit and wait or to take next step.

            Duds and all others were still contemplating over the next step when, an announcement was made regarding who will be next GS. Vee was really surprised in-spite of her telling the ma'am no step was taken. And then she was called in to office, where she was told to report back as soon as any new development occurred, or latest by in an hour.

           All six of them sat in garden waiting for something to happen. 

           As Hera and Rack were driving back, rack got an SMS asking them to come to college garden, whenever they got it. Maybe Monc is calling for studies, but they were in no position to do so. Still, it was Monc thats why Hera turned the bike towards college garden.

          Now only five minutes were there to the deadline and small gathering in garden was getting frantic when Hera showed up and so did principals peon. And before Hera could say anything was hurried into the Principal's office. Others followed in.

          There he stood as guilty, but this time he was not sure of the charges. 

          Principal: "So, you were kidnapped."  (To Hera)

          Duds, Smoky all others: "Yes sir."

          Hera and Rack: "Kidnapped!!!"

          Principal: "Where were you taken?" 

          Hera and Rack: "There is some misunderstanding, we were not kidnapped."

          And they told the whole story, how they were financed by these guys to go out on an outing, etc.

         While Duds and Rocky narrated what happened with them. As nothing can be proven, no case was made, but connecting the dots it was clear, there kidnapping was staged as could not be reached on phone, it was believed to be true. However, next day the elections were discarded and a toppers meeting was convened. Where a new GS was appointed and it was ruled from this year there won't be any elections ever. 

            Hera only had spoken to her few minutes back, but was missing her now like as if was always in love with her. It was practical exams and there was not going to be any set duration of wait. Hence, it was going to be long time before she would come back. Sensing Hera's thoughts Monc decided to stay back. And others made a big drama of leaving and hide in the building overlooking the garden.  

            They were watching through the small design gaps in corridor, and whispering as less as possible. Sign language was in use on full scale. Never have 6 grown adults remained on all fours longer of there own will. Being made fun off, and when people laughed at them, all they did was a finger on lips, big eyes and no ssshhhhh...... They were, the 4 guys - Smoky, Rocky, Vin, Taklya(bald) and the two girls were Vee and Duds. 

            Taklya was not used to exercise, and staying still on all fours was one of it, hence got a cramp in one of legs. Would have started wailing like a fool, had smoky not got a hand in instead over his mouth. But that was not what really stopped Taklya, Vin jumped on him from other side and accidentally got hold of cramping leg. The signs that Taklya followed up with, only Vin understood, the two girls were dumb struck and when Vin started massaging the thigh, they looked at them with evident disdain and suspicion.

           All Vin could do at that time was deny the unsaid allegation as clearly as possible and had to be hold off by another hand on mouth, this time it was Rocky's hand that got the bite mark, this time they were deliberately made. In end all four guys ended up injured in one way or another, 3 physically and Vin's ego.

          At that time a girl made with boyish walk, green jacket and a blue bag made her way to garden, towards Hera and Monc who were doing all the things in world but study. Her name was Wari, was sort of warrior and yes tom boy, but was not that tall though, and was made fun of her by other girls for that.

         Wari dropped her back next to Hera and questioned why only two of the gang were here, where rest are . She too had her exam and as always, had not gone so well. She was a rotten apple in her teacher's eye. But she took it lightly and never gave second thought to her language, and hence others were bit afraid of her. 

        But not Hera and neither Monc, she was like third buddy to them.  And so Hera did not waste any time and asked about the junior girl, she was junior to Wari too, and knew her. Wari, replied a little to frankly for Hera's taste, coming direct to point,

                      Wari: "She left."

                      Monc: "ssshhhhhh......Oh, shit." And made certain eye formation.

                      Wari: "Oh...Okay." And reciprocated the certain eye formation.

                      Hera: "Oh, lets go. When did she go?"

                      Wari: "She had a reservation, and was getting late, she literally ran out of examination hall, so asked around. Even external examiner had a big laugh on her."

                      Hera did not have anything to say, and started walking, all others joined in, Taklya not able to walk, and Rocky asked for lift from Hera to doctor's place, so that he can get Anti-rabies injections. Everyone laughed, except for Vin and Rocky, Rocky seemed serious about doctor. 

                     They all ended up in Laxmi, after an end to long evening, nothing like cold coffee to relax. But someone was following Hera, a rough guy. 

             Before real preparative leave started, that is before all practical examinations were over, Hera got a bike. Out of blue his dad had come, gone to showrooms and other places and got him bike. No it was not blue, it was not CBZ and it was not even a 150 cc or second best at that time, Yamaha. It was a second hand 100 cc red coloured Bajaj BOXER. Hera was not at all happy with it. But it was better than nothing, so he kept quite.

              Later he learned that this bike had lot of side effects. Hera likes to list things and so he did,

               1. I can go anywhere without letting others know.

               2. Like smoky, i can also lend my bike to others in return for some favours.

              3. I and Monc can go to any place at night. If anything goes wrong we can call someone using Monc's cell phone.

              4. May be I will get a girlfriend now.

              5. Being a Boxer, it will average better than smoky's bike, will save lot on travelling, as such cost of using bus and smoky's bike for two person at a time was same.

               All the assumptions were actually based on the 5th and final point, and that’s where it all went wrong. That bike did not average well at all, it was poorly serviced and damage was irreversible, both on bikes engine and Hera's pocket. Most of Hera's pocket money was blown up in bikes exhaust pipe in one week’s time. Hence for rest of the month he had to keep quite.

              It turned out to be better for Hera that way, as exam was near. Now Hera used to drive to college and sit in garden from morning till evening along with Monc and some of his class mates. Slowly a big group of 18 to 20 was formed, who used to study together and have fun together, but Hera was alone from his class and stream.

              Like before, Hera stared to act weird in the garden, sleeping on floor etc. But even more weird thing happened. Hera was being noticed by girls, sitting on opposite side of the garden a bunch of girls used to look at him. Hera too noticed this, only after Monc told him. Hera soon realized that it was only one girl who was looking at him more than once and not all others. Last year’s story was acting out all in reverse.

              This continued for a week or even less and one day Hera decided, not to come college, but was not able to resist, so instead of sitting in garden he sat in a corridor. Yes, the corridor to Women College. The girl missed Hera but did not draw enough courage to approach any of his friends. While, Hera’s examinations were over, some other pupil examination was still going on, that is practical. Hence, Hera was already concentrating on papers that are theory exams.

               She was very disturbed and though had studied well; felt she had offended him in some way. It was day of her last practical exam and was not able to concentrate well; as she was going to her examination hall she stopped in her tracks.

               Though, she was a junior, as she used to have 1st year books in her hand, Hera had never seen her before in his college. And that’s why had decided to not go forward with her as long distance relations generally do not work. But still, she used to come to his mind now and then.

               Hera was studying hard when he heard some girls, of Girls College make commotion, and saw up from his book and found her standing there, and before she could say anything, he said:

     "All the Best, you are getting late for exam, go and do well."

She came to her senses and ran the rest of corridor, with a smile over her face and confidence in her stride, looked back one last time, and got a thumps up sign from Hera. Her friend ushered her in along with her file, Hera decided to return to garden to study. And hoped she would come and meet him.              

                    While Hera was busy lazying around and looking for his ma'am, all others were busy trying to finish there assignments and even more busy to get fine lowered. Some had as much as 1K and some as little as 50 bucks, but they were all stressed. As submission was not going to be accepted until they paid up.

                   Some of Heras friends had there wits misguided, talked about going on a strike, just pulling suffering pupil's legs. Little did they know next day it would be termed as brightest idea ever! Hera, nonchalantly said, next they would put up a begging bowl for people to donate money for the purpose, instantly one box appeared.

                  Soon, well handled situation till then, had deteriorated. Pressed showed up, as some one from crowd donated a 1 Rupee coin, for pictures in next days newspapers. Next day newspaper headings read

"Students on street."

"College punishes Parents."

"College charges fees for absenteeism."

etc.

Lot of bad publicity followed, college management had hands full explaining there stance. All chanted the university rules regarding attendance, "No granting of term, unless 75% attendance in lectures and 100% in practicals." 

                Students retaliated that, "The first day attendance fine is about 500 bucks, one day can not amount to term being not granted, and all others who are absent for only one day should not be fined, as per that reason." 

                Hence, there was a cut in fine, people who had there attendance as 75% in lectures and 100% in practicals, were not fined at all, and people who were absent on 1st day also got cut in there fine. Resultant, strike was over, and most were not fined. But some who were, had to pay full price, those who did not, lost there term.

                Sometimes, even if you have nothing to do with the situation, you can end up influencing the outcome, Hera never learned from this incidence.  

             The words spread very fast, if its something not so good about a so considered good student. Some one or the other will take out the competition. As soon as the word spread among faculty about Miss Meteorite and Hera, they became little careful in praising Hera. And Hera slowly lost interest in college work. Though he never bunked classes and never did anything wrong, but neither did anything right. His journals were complete and checked. But he was no more studying ahead of class, but he did not need too. Most, 75% of the portion is covered in 1st two months of the semester and in 3rd month its about completion and compilation.

              One can understand completion of journals, but compilation? is another thing. Compilation is process of getting all the notes, checking various sources- the so called genius or book worms, pets of faculty and some wiz kids, seniors and sort. Also getting all the required printouts in the file, whether there are any diagrams missing, which books need to be followed for what portion of syllabus? Which books will cover maximum portion? Will it be enough for passing?  

              4th month was all about last minute buttering the faculty for good internal marks. Race had begun, and this time Hera was unwittingly, part of it. He had to be, who else had a zero absenteeism record, no one. Last dates of submission were announced, files were being circulated, index were being borrowed and cross checked. But Hera had already gone through the most of the Race. He was on his final lap, and needed just index signatures, and he was done.

             Now, Hera had become completely laid back, was lazying around about the index signatures. And, as one of the Murphys law states, unthinkable will happen when you think nothing can go wrong. And it did happen that way. One of the faculty from whom index signature were needed, went on a 15 day leave, vacation time. And Heras crying days were back, got all files through on last date, smoothly, but one.   

            Hera toyed with the idea of going to her resort and get it signed, but no one told him, where she was. Everyone thought he had alterer motives. Eyed him with obvious submission. As she was young, besides she was on her honey moon, it would have scored poorly on Heras scorecard too. He did not have any other choice, but to sit quietly and study. Which he did but in very poor way, this time it was tension of last file, and not any girl.

            The last file to be signed was signed by faculty, in front of external examiner, who pitched in to scold Hera in full force, as was enjoying it, but gave him slack for doing well in practical, he was 1st person in whole day to have got all the readings right, and only one to have signs on all practicals on the performing dates. 

           But away from Hera there was large scale drama going on, about the punishment and fines for not attending college. 

             Hera was having fun, basking in the glory of being regular, and getting attention of teachers. It had never ever happened before in his life. Some had started calling him teachers pet. But it was not all rosy path  all the way.

             Never before had Hera have to work so hard on his practicals, do homework and revise and study so much before the exam time. It was only start of third week, only one ma'am had not yet started teaching, for she was on leave. And now Hera was looking forward to work his charm on her, he had already read some part of her portion, the part she might start with. Very promising semester in terms of academic performance and marks to look forward too. And more importantly, heavy hand of internals on back for sure. 

             Thats when Miss Stela walked in, the ma'am who had been on leave, and will start class from this day. And she started teaching, had already heard from staff about Hera, and asked a question straight away, and Hera answered it. After teaching for about one hour, she had two joint lectures, she decided to give other off, so as to get introduction from class. 

              One by one she was going through the students, Hera was happy, for he had answered all her questions and was already in her good books. Also, it was first time in this class, that all girls would introduce themselves. Hera had all ears on there voice. It went well. Hera was not particularly interested in any one of them, but interest could be developed, or could get developed, if there is an opportunity, why let it go to some one else. That kind of killer instinct had developed in Hera. 

              It was Heras turn to introduce. And as he was starting to do so, Miss Stela stopped him, smiled and said, I know you very well. And skipped him. Hera was very happy at this treatment. A V.I.P. among all class mates. 

              Classes went on, and Hera continued to perform well. Did not put a foot wrong, remained ahead of his class and faculty too at times. And hence an apple of eyes for his faculty. 

              Again, it was the lecture of Miss Stela, and she decided to give 2nd lecture off, well she was a very good at her job and pupil did not flunk in her subjects. This time she came close to Hera, and started a chat session with him.

              Miss Stela: "So how do you study?"

              Hera: "I just read the books and notes." 

              Miss Stela:"You were not like this in first year."

              Hera: "No ma'am, i did not study this much, because i was not able to, did not knew how too"

              Miss Stela: "I know you better than that, i agree you have changed, so don't lie to me." 

              Hera: "I am not lying. I really was not able too. "

              Miss Stela: "I know about you and Miss Meteorite, she told me, the way you used to act in her lecture, Why you have not done that with me?"

              Hera was speechless and amused and shocked, did not knew what to say and how to react, would it be right to say it all was a lie, or will it be better to wink at her or let go and forget everything about the conversation. As he was about to respond, bell rang. It still remains to be known, whose skin was saved by that bell, but Miss. Stela was embarrassed, cause everyone was paying attention to them now, and she had said last two to three statement too loudly, while Hera was embarrassed, because his secret was known to others, than his friends too.

               1st week of college in second year was a different kind of liberation. It seemed like they were no more "The freshers", but one year old. No more total juniors, soon junior juniors are going to be here, while super super seniors were gone, with hefty pay checks and respected jobs, breathing new dreams among 2nd year students, Hera, being one of them.

                There was going to be a change, a big change, all classes were going to be mingled, mixed and set for next three years, for now the students will begin there specialization. Hera was nervous, what kind of people will they all be? Will he be able to make new friends? Would some one give him notes and more importantly, practical files and experiment write-ups.    

                Hera, had taken the "fine if absent" warning seriously, but not all of them, and attendance was lets say, none to nothing. 

               Day 1: Hera alone.

               Day 2: Hera and two others.

               Day 3: 7 in all.

               Day 4: 14 made it.

               Day 5: 20

               Day 6: 50% came.

               Day 7: was Sunday and

               Day 8: All were there. And finally teachers were happy, and so were the college authorities. Soon the lists were out, sums of fine imposed and further the scheme was extended, now even if one lecture is missed 50 bucks were to be charged. But no one had made any payment till now. 

              The day list was announced, Monc had no other option but to cry foul. Among mischief mongers, some genuine cases were lost too. Monc on other hand did not have fine stars, he missed a class, only one, the 1st one and had to pay the price for whole day. But, he was not alone in this boat, and there was no mistake of his. For the new timetable meant, college started one hour earlier than last year, which was not propagated as much as the fine thing. 

               On other hand Hera was elated. Hera, was the only lucky person, to be spared the fine, despite being known case of delinquency among other so called delinquents. Hera, thanked Monc and then thanked his stars, for not being on the list.  For, for the first time in his life he was declared, "the most sincere among all!"

               Well, trouble had just started brewing, more was yet to come, for starters no one paid fine, and authorities never stopped the punishment.

              It was last paper of second semester examination, and Hera was ready to pack and live for home. But today was the longest paper of his bachelors, not that anything happened, but it really was 4 hours long, while all others were only 3 hours. Hera, as usual had not taken this in consideration and therefore, booked a ticket of bus which was half an hour too early.

              Hera only realized his mistake when he was in examination hall, writing, rather drawing the answer, half hour in to exam, supervisor said "3 and 1/2 hour more to go." All others, anyone in right mind would speed up, and they did, but Hera stood up and clearly said, rather shouted "Wha....T!" There was pin-drop silence, before and after it was deadening silence! Every one had there eyes on Hera, and most of them went back to there work, while Hera was grilled for disturbing others, in process disturbing even more people.

              Next half hour or so went in thinking of bus that he would miss, and cursing the university. As examination progressed it became more and more clear to Hera, the 4 hour examination was for others, with his choice of questions he could still complete it in under three hours. And he speed up the work.

             The university also gives four hours for last paper, taking things in consideration, it was not only the lengthy paper, but for the Gods tradition too.  

              "2 and 1/2 hours into exam, Gods tradition begins", is what used to be told by seniors to every junior, each and every year, "its  the real initiation in to bachelors, the ones who clear this hurdle will make it through, through the finale." 

              First, clouds come over, taking out the sun, then goes the power, hence blackout in examination halls followed by rains outside.  And if you want to be tested more, it will leak on to your desk, ruining your answer sheet. And hence ordeal of Hera had begun, he was allowed to shift, but leak followed him two times, at third place there was no leak but no light either, not even a weak flicker. 

              Bus was out of question, but there were serious questions in Heras mind of being able to finish his paper in time. Deadline was now 45 minutes away, 45 minutes being wasted in moving here and there, next he finds out, the rounder and set-squares had fallen out while coming to exam hall from room. He had to draw the curve free hand, and it had to come right, class act, he managed a curve, somehow scampered through other questions and bell ranged. There was no time to tie the sheets together. He was sweating heavily, had he made any mistake, no time to poof read it, no time to check anything, well thats "Gods tradition!" 

              Under more volley of words, Hera managed to tie the sheets together and submit it, lift all of his remaining stuff and make it to room, where he started packing frantically, though first bus had gone, there may be a chance to get second. It was still raining. As soon as Hera had packed the bags, all the gang walked in. 

              Monc: "Where are you going?"

              Hera: "Where all else are going?"

              Rack: "We are not going anywhere."

              Hera: "Home!"

              Smoky: "He does not know, i guess. Who will break news to him?"

              Hera: "What news?"

              Monc: "Okay, I will. Hera, our second year collage starts day after tomorrow. You can not go home stay for few hours and come back."

              Hera: "No it starts on 2nd!"

              Monc: "Today is 31st, and if you do not come on first day, you will be fined Rs.1000, and Rs.100 for each lecture you miss of first week."

              Hera: "Oh Shits!"

              Hera went down to STD and called mom and told about college, and canceled his home visit. Monc said " Now he understands the importance of that deepawali vacation!"

           As every one was habituated to study at night, college lights were always lit for its students. And hence, to avoid any unpleasant things, there was an inspection squad, which would carry out surprise inspection to check if any one was smoking or was there any girl sill sitting in college at night etc. On one such night, as the inspection squad came to carry out a surprise visit, as they reached the floor, smoky was smoking. They had reached the door, smoky was still smoking, and black out happened. Saved by the whisker, as the squad came in, every one moved out. 

           Well squad did smell some thing fishy, rather smoky, but no one waited long enough to be caught. On more important note, they had lost a day to study and were not at all felling sleepy. It was only 1:00 in night. The obvious question was "What to do?"

           Monc and Hera decided to go to Hera's flat where Rack had already reached. All three were thinking of doing something when the dog next door, barked at something, next rack answered it.  Yes Rack mimicked it to the T. They had found what to do next. All went in to balcony and sat on the leaf bed, yes it was still there, and Rack followed up the first bark, with that of a pups, a hurt dogs shriek and so on, each time he got response from the Alsatian next door. 

           Everything was going fine until, Rack decided to do a grown dogs howl. No, other dog did not think it was a man it was responding too, but now not one but all dogs of the locality were howling. Rack followed the first one with one more, and another, and then she came out.

            The cat woman, hostel owner and wife of a drunk advocate, just walked out with a black plastic bag. What followed next was never seen or heard before. She put her hand into bag and out came a stone which was aimed in direction of Rack and friends, albeit towards ground floor. Then another one towards Alsatian, she missed him. One towards opposite side, one towards other side. Rack looking at her behavior said "it seemed that she is sleep walking and standing in the middle of the road, randomly throwing stones at non existing dogs".

             All agreed at this, however Hera was perplexed, looking at him,

             Monc: "What is troubling you?"

             Hera: "She is so prepared, she must have got distinction in her bachelors, look she keeps a bag full of stones with her." 

              Neither Monc nor Rack could say anything...they slept, for black out continued. 

             As is the habit of Monc and Hera to study late at night, and have dinner at Laxmi, but they had another habit. Those were the days of happy hours, yes happy hours, and i am not talking about hippie or drugs or nothing as sinister, but the only ones who would be hurt were telecom companies. At night time after 10:00, all calls were charged zero bucks. And people like Monc and Hera made full use of this facility.

             Monc owned a cell phone and so did Pee. Monc and Hera used to call Pee or vice versa and keep the call on for hours altogether, when ever one of the 3 had doubts they would shout in the mouthpiece and other used to reply with solution. What started as an aid to studies, soon became an accessory to fun. When ever one felt bored, all would start chit chatting.

             Days, or should i say nights, were quickly running out, and hence time before exams. On one such night all three of them were studying seriously, so much so that Monc and Hera over shot the time for dinner at 11:30, and hence missed it, as Laxmi shut down for the night.

             That night, luckily they had smoky's bike with them. So they went on looking for some dinner at night. They were very hungry now, being studying hard till then. Hence, food was a priority, besides none of the students had any snack so late in the semester. Therefore, the only option was to go look for some open hotel that will serve dinner, and it should be cheap too. 

             Only, one place in a normal city would fit this description, that would be a railway station. for, even bus stands have little traffic at 1:00 in night. And they ended up in a hotel which is in no way cheap, and forget the concept for value for money either. They were in no position to pay for anything. No choice but to move out and go home and sleep with stomach full of water, as they were cursing and going home, Pee called, yes they had forgotten to even call her and so had she. It was not possible for Monc to drive as well as speak on phone, so bike was parked, Hera was to hungry to do anything without dreaming of food. So, no driving for him today. 

              As they were walking, Monc told her about not felling of studying today and they were off to sleep today, when Hera shouted! Food! Monc, Food! look there is food! Over there! 

              Monc, thought Hera has lost it and neglected him, but Hera started walking down in direction of his food! Monc hurriedly, ended that conversation with Pee. He did not want to damage Hera and more importantly his own reputation in front of Pee. She was there only friend of girl kind, over here, and his only anywhere. More about them latter.

              Well, Hera was on his way, and Monc had to follow him fast and as he cached up and started to pull at Hera,

              Hera: "Smell it Monc, Food! from there."

              Monc: "Shut up! Hera and come along with.......yes you are write!"

              Hera: "Yes, there!"

              And there they saw, two men walk out from behind the gate, and on inquiry, a back door to a hotel was pointed out, at last food! was available. Monc and Hera discovered the taste of Bun Muska and Mutton Kheema fry, at dead of night, that is, at 2:00. Hence, one more joint was added on there map for food. It served the meal in 85 bucks flat. 

              Sadly, it does not exist any more, but the hotel in front of it still serves the same taste, but not as cheap and not at all the unholy times, that Hera and Monc would have thought of, like 3:00, 3:30 and even 4:00 in night or shall i say start of the other day!

               If it were not the case of some students getting first class and distinction, most would have thought college are not good for there kids. And if going by Hera's experience, the more pressure for studies, greater is the chance of new romance budding. So if there are preparative leave, last minute cramp tuitions etc, the higher is chance of them falling in love. Hera, thinking this might be one way to meet his Miss right, decides to join a cramp tuitions for two of the most tough subjects of the semester.

               Here is where he meets Tee on very first day, and on very first day he ends up sitting with her. While Monc ends up in another batch, for he came early, thats the way Hera puts it, not that he was late. There was nothing romantic about Tee, nothing special about her, well her appearance can be summed up in following points

              1. Fair complexion

              2. Boy cut, uncombed hair style.

              3. Jeans, and shabby top.

              4. Not much tall, neither too short, normal height.

              5. Roundish-Squarish face.

              6. Chubby cheeks, nearly double chin, white teeth within.

Well thats for outer appearance, but more importantly she was tomboy, late and lazy, a mirror image of Hera, only plus point, she was female and sitting next to him.

              Well first day was the last day she sat with Hera, well it had nothing to do with Hera or Tee not wanting to share the bench, but was just not in their faith to be. Either Hera used to be too early, unlike him but for her sake, then she used to be late, when he was late, she used to be early. After, 1st day Hera thought of various ways and plans to go about and asking her out. 1st one was to get her phone number and call her, she was localite, that is she lived with her parents. 

              The day was decided, and Hera was going to get her number that night, and was all ready to make that call. Then is when he overheard a story, narrated by Tee, well he had all ears for her voice. It went this way,

        Tee: Yesterday, I got a call from someone called R.

        Friend: About what?

        Tee: He said "You are Tee. Your voice is sweet, I love it, no I love you."

        Friend: What?

        Tee: I said " Bro; whats your problem? I do not know you, so I am cutting the line." And i cut the line.

        Friend: So the episode is over.

        Tee: No he called back and said "First thing: I am not your bro, Second: What ever is the problem, its mine, and because its i who has called, its me who will cut the line, bye." And he cut the line.

        Mean while, Monc had gone out with Pee, who turned out to be Tee's friend and liked Monc. Monc was at first surprised to be next to her. He was not accustomed to be among girls, let alone approached by them. But Pee was different, unlike other girls and like Tee, was tomboy, but very confident. So Pee and Monc became friends and so did Hera, but line stopped there, it did not extend till Tee.  Pee gave Tees' number to Monc and Monc brought it to Hera. And Hera had no option but to not use it. 

        Hera had decided to go one step too extreme, he decided to send a love letter to her home. Well the idea was vehemently vetoed by Pee, thankfully, for if she had not it would have made it to Tee's father. Hence, useless and may be, suicidal. So, it was decided, to write a love letter, perfume it and leave it on Tees Scooty.       

         Next day Tee found a letter on her Scooty, she glanced here and there, she saw Hera standing next to Monc, and she pocketed the letter and left. She stopped on way to home and opened the envelope, it was written in blood. She nearly fainted and got seriously afraid. She quickly left for home that day. And called in sick for the rest of day. She was tensed and thinking was Hera a good guy or a freak. And was afraid of her choice. At that her mother came and this followed.

        Mum: Tee, what is this? (holding the envelope)

        Tee: Ah!

        Mum: What is this? Tee, tell me. What is this? (Shouting)

        Tee: Love letter. Written in Blood. (Rather too coolly, freaking the mother out)

        Mum: Who is he?

        Tee: Mum, i do not know, might not even belong to me. It was lying on the scooty, in college.

        Mum: (Thinking, with rage.)

        Tee: may be its for Pee.

        Mum: Okay.(Picks up phone and calls Pee, tells everything thats in the letter.)

        Tee: Let it be mum, if anything else comes we will go to police. ( hang that Hera, idiot, cant he write in simple ink, like all other guys, i would have remained sane and would have hidden it by now, like all others) 

        Mum: Okay.

        Well, her mother let it go then, for it would have been very difficult to disclose this information to Tees father, and burned the damn letter.

        On the other hand, Pee called Monc and shouted like hell at him and then at Hera. She did not allow a single syllable out of there throat, until she was exhausted, that was about 30 minutes latter. At that moment Hera said, "But i did not get a chance to drop that letter on her scooty, Tee came after me, she was too late and left earlier than me, my letter is still in my bag!" All in one breath.

        Next day Monc, Pee and Hera met, and it was decided to drop any plans of letter, he would have to go and meet her directly. And ask her out, face to face. Yes the oldest and the most difficult way to ask a women for a date. In her face and in front of all other 120 faces, who come from your college. Fear of rejection had to set in. It had too, already there were plans, that were foiled.

        In mean time, Pee had cleared the name of Hera regarding blood letter, and Tee already knew, cause the guy was caught while getting into her compound, he belonged to some other college. So that matter was resolved, but still the fear remained. They both glanced at each other and when one smiled the other looked away, too embarrassed being caught red eyed while stealing a glance. this continued without any progress. I find this stage most dumb of all and sweet to. Dumb cause they both know they like the other but neither is ready to take the first step. And sweet, for its like sweet, there is no better feeling of anxiety than this, both know that something will happen now, something will happen then and so on. 

       Well, soon it was the last day of the tuition, and it would be difficult to meet again, both were anxious to meet and reveal and live there inner feelings, none of them were able to pay any attention to the faculty. Soon it was over, the class, Hera stood outside and waited for her to come out and as she did, he got ready to say it, she got ready to hear it, and then as Hera stepped forward, and made a sound, Tee's father brushed him aside and held her hand and walked away. Her father was watching him angrily, but Hera was saved by Monc who came to his rescue. Well this romance ended then and there, for it was time for exams now. 

               Most people would decide not to travel, while having fever and vomits and stomach pains, but not Hera. What he did would be termed courageous by most. He first of all parked the bike at a secure place, where it would get as dirty as possible, he parked it right under a tree, where bird droppings were a common ground art, now bike art.

                 After that, he packed everything in two bags, everything included all of the following,    

                 1. Books, all of them.

                 2. Drawing sheets, drawing board, etc

                 3. All dabbas and boxes, empty but unwashed

                 4. And ton of unwashed clothes

and carried them to STD, where he informed Auntie of his plan and got on to a rickshaw, to bus stand. There he got on to a luxury bus, 2 by 2 seater, got window seat, popped a pill and slept. And woke up only when bus stopped for tea time. Normally, people in his position would have stayed away from eating anything, but not Hera, he started with Wada pav, chat and so on. And then vomited everything out!

                  Slept, till next destination arrived. There, he realized, he might be late for the connecting train. Had to drag his bags all the way to railway station. There on 3rd platform was the connecting train, he was on 6th platform and ticket counter was on 1st platform. And, train was going to go, decided to hop onto it, and thought will pay fine if required and ran to get on the train.

                  There, as he reached platform 3, train started to move, he would not have been able to get on the train unless like any romantic movie, whether DDLJ, Jab we Meat etc., some one would like Hera, well there is no time wrong time to dream, and pull him on the train. And thats what happened, a hand from the cargo compartment, which was smelling heavily of fish, came out, Hera took that hand and got on the train. But unlike movie that person was unfortunately male, Hera was being himself, more over he was TC, and Hera stupidly asked "Is there enough time to buy ticket and come back?" Of-course not!

                  However, he did not fine him then and there, he did not have his ticket and fine book with him. So for time being, Hera was saved. The ladies in compartment who were carrying fish helped him get on a bench and sleep. They also advised him to get of train after 2 stations and climb on general boogie, 3 compartments ahead, by then TC would have traversed it, so you can save on fine, by giving the TC a miss. 

                  So as decided, Hera moved into the other compartment, and sat down. And his rest of the journey began and continued without any hindrance.

                  While, Hera was on his way home, his father had sent a parcel along with a family friend, and as obvious, he did not find Hera at the room, so he started searching for Hera, soon a search party of about 20 to 25 people had gathered. Well it was a valid reason, and noble too for Heas' seniors to miss studies. But no one asked Auntie of STD anything except for the sad girl!

                   Running here and there, proper investigation had began, had he left the town, gone to his relatives, all sorts of permutations and combinations were being worked out and if necessary, they had decided to approach police. Heras' parents were packing there backs to make an overnight journey, fearing all sorts of bad things. 

                    Then, bell rang! And Hera came home, what a relief, what followed was well over his head. About 20-25 phone calls were done, about same number of apologies asked, Hera just looked on and then remembered of the girl and said, "Oh! Shits! I forgot to inform her."   

             Hera's first Deepawali in bachelors was a good lesson in eating habits which he never gave a dime, before or after. It was going to be glorious festival as per his planning, Hera was going to borrow a friends bike, after all he would not be needing it and Hera did have a license to drive. So, there was no reason he could have said no. But Hera had to prove that he knew how to drive. 

             Time was fast running out for Hera, he had yet not got a chance to prove his metal as a good driver. And he was ready to do what ever it would take to get custody of that bike over the vacation, for he had planned it out. The 10 point plan..

             1. Get the bike.

             2. See all friends off.

             3. Hope most good looking girl stays back.

             4. Make a choice- based on looks and ease of winning.

             5. Break ice with her and move around in city with her.

             6. Full fill her small dreams- watch movies, candle light dinner, take her for a day long trip etc.

             7. Support her when she feels lonely and gets emotional.

             8. Get her habituated of his presence.

             9. Suggest more than friendship- She is very good, compliment her, say the one with whom she goes will be luckiest etc.

            10. Accept her proposal. 

             How bizarre that may sound, it succeeded partially.

             Hera got the chance to prove his ability, had to go and drop Smoky to his bus on last moment notice, for Crack did not wake up. Hera drove to station, dropped Smoky on time and came back. And hence got custody of the bike. Point 1 done.

            What was started by Smoky was followed by Monc, Crack, Rack, etc one by one. Each one advised Hera to go to home town too, as from next semester till the end of bachelors there was not going to be any vacation! Still, Hera stood his ground. Point 2 success.

            Yes, most good looking girls stayed back, what difference does it make if most were at least one year older. It did not matter. There were still, plenty of fish in pound and much lesser competition. And hence, Point 3 was easiest to achieve. 

           Soon, it did not even took Hera to zoom through the population and decide on his target. Yes, a good looking girl was selected. First, four points were achieved with in 3 hours of Smoky giving keys of his bike to Hera.

           Perfect chance was served on a platter to Hera, the selected girl came to STD, lost her balance and fell! Twisted her ankle. Great, Hera helped her on to seat of bike, took her to doctor, where she got the required treatment and was discharged, on way back they had lunch in a fine restaurant and he dropped her back to her hostel, from there she was helped by her friends to her room. Point 5 in bag.

          Now it was time for Point 6 to be played out, the longest and toughest, had got the date for night with her set, and she come to STD, all ready for her first ever date, dressed impeccably neat, in a white off shoulder gown, she was quite modern, you see, to meet Hera, and waited for 1 long hour and at last asked STD Auntie about him, and the massage was delivered. She had been stood up!

          Now, most people would ask "Why?". Well, it all began the night before. yesterday night, Smoky and Hera went out and had chinese food, at a very ill maintained and unhygienic, make shift restaurant, which was opened only for the vacation. Result was clear, both got food poisoning. A gift from amoebas. Hera, had to leave for home town immediately, for no one was going to care for him here. So, just left a simple massage at STD, "I am going to home town."    

         She never ever spoke with Hera again, and Hera never ever got the guts to approach her again! Another, short lived romance bites the dust.

         Nothing, in Hera's life could be simple, the path that he has traveled, on so many occasions and so well on most, this time he nearly failed............what happened, we will see tomorrow! 

              As habituated to nocturnal way of life, Hera used to spend most of his nights in college and only go to room when he could no more keep his eyes open. However, for past few days, Hera had noticed the absence of other roommates too at night. And far less number of visitors too!

             A few days back, the owner of the bungalow had come, as always after a month, at first every one had thought it was normal check up on his property. But then someone noticed each time he came and came some Lemons with pins, Turmeric, black doll and other stuff. Curiosity had aroused. And hence Crack made the connection, of the stuff and owner and no moon days! And Cat was out of bag. Everything started looking sinister.

             The whole colony was now being looked through glass of Sherlock Holmes, only difference being, he used to look for clues left by humans, here people were looking for ghosts, banshees and witches. A character sketch was made of people who lived in that locality. It looked like this.

            STD Uncle and Auntie: Too sweet and over excited, always. 

            People with big Compound wall: Kept to themselves, but had one case of mental illness. 

            One of the Hostel owner: Cat woman, has at least 5 of them, Husband is drunkard. 

            Other Hostel owner: Could not speak with anyone unless fighting. Too liberal with girls. Leaves life in secrecy. 

            Lastly: Our owner, comes only on Amavasya, is as pale and white as vampire. 1st wife died in bathroom below!

            That was it, the proof, he killed her and now she haunts the place. This is how people jump to conclusion, and they did. Next time, he came, he forgot to switch of the light of bathroom, yes same one. People coming to room noticed that, which did not seemed to be on in morning, when looked in. On one such excursion to find the root of mystery of on light, Smoky fell to ground only to discover an arrow head with its head rising from earth. That put the seal on this bungalow being haunted.

           And hence Hera's friends became little afraid of coming to room and so did others, many times he slept alone. So one day with Rack, Smoky and Monc, Hera decided to carry out an investigation on his own, for he had not had any bad vibes from this place till now.

          Being, differently intelligent that he was, Hera pulled out all fuse to look at  bulb whether it works, it worked. That sent a chill through his spine. Next day Hera noticed that most of the furniture used to shift away from walls and more towards balcony! Something used to walk over the roof at night, which was made up of cement sheet in some part, which could not have supported weight of a small kid. these things were good enough to move every one out of room, but Hera had no where to go at first. So he stayed put, and ghost did not trouble him, either he was too good or simply worser than the ghost himself.

         With this knowledge came privileges, Hera got recognition among his colleagues as a brave person, fear of theft from room vanished, no one ever tried to come up the room, no one ever bothered to lock it. It was a freedom ticket, Hera, went wherever and whenever he wanted too, without searching for the lock and key, as it was never kept in its proper place!

        Hera got the meaning of phrase, Liberation from chains! He understood what girls felt, how they liked living alone in this alien town and have fun, have freedom! Being independent! Well outrageous, but thats what he thought!   

               Well after spending 5k in one day and realizing that they had not gained much in value, it was mutual caution on spending from all three of them. But Hera was going to be far from spending less. He had got himself audio tapes with labels like Runaway Bride; Lucky Alis' trio-logy, Match Box etc, and he did not even have a walk-man! So what next; go get one. Now, he did not want to defy the mutual austerity drive, so he went alone and as not to over spend walked to destination.

               His budget was modest, only 1200 bucks, got cash out of bank, walked to the nearest shop, and it was a sony shop. The cheapest cost 1500 bucks. He could not afford it, went to next, he did not like any, here the most expensive was available at about 600 bucks. In end, he gave up and returned home.

              Hera had started quite early and therefore was back at room by 11:00 and as soon as he lay down on his bed, Anth called from the street below, most people avoided rather feared coming up, to Hera's room, more about that in next post. However, today was last day for submission which Hera had of-course not completed. So first thing what he did was get Anth's file then and there and started coping it word to word, even the index. And then ran to college.

             As Hera reached college, it was submission for Miss Meteorites subject, as he was standing there, he heard Miss shout at some girl for coping the file from friend, "How did ma'am catch her?" was what Hera thinking, when Anth came running ahead from behind the line and took Hera's file, and on first page there it was, Anth K. in bold letters, instead of Hera's name.  

            They quickly changed the page, before reaching madams desk and Hera submitted his file.

           Miss Meteorite: "Hera, why did you copy Anth's file."

           Hera: " I did not." (How did she come to know?)

           Miss Meteorite: "You are impossible!"

           Miss Meteorite:(To students behind Hera) "Is Anth there?"            

           Anth came running ahead, now what has gone wrong and he realized it, he came running ahead to madams desk.

           Anth: "Sorry Miss, by mistake our files got exchanged."

          As Anth was coming in and was saying this, Hera had stooped ahead and tried to take a sneak peak in file. But as Miss Meteorite had been weary of Hera's presence, she took it otherwise and she just moved back into her chair, as Hera tried even harder to check the file out,  Miss had push her chair back and stood up, as she did this Hera with out most curiosity followed the moment of file, but to Miss and anyone else, except for Anth, it looked something else! It seemed as if he was openly being PERVERT! thats what Miss Meteorite's eyes said and as soon as Hera saw the look in her eyes, he said

         "NO! NO! Not that! I was trying to look at file, how you came to know that, I had copied from Anth."

          Well, though he had confessed to lesser of the two evils, either she was relieved that Hera was not pervert or she did not want to risk any more confrontations! She signed his and Anth's file without checking anything else, unlike for others who had come before and after Hera! This was the smoothest submission Hera had ever had until now! Else he used to be sent back and made to do corrections, and sometimes non existent corrections too, for he was not regular, he had not done most of the work etc...         

              It had been over a semester now, still Hera did not knew anything about the city he lived in. Why should he know, there was no reason to go anywhere, okay he was interested in movies, but why should he spend for them, if people would get CD's and he watched at there place on a PC. The only place other than the phone booth, if Hera had to go anywhere down the road was decided as per a fixed routine. Mess two times a day on weekdays including Saturday, to Mess one time on Sunday; and Laxmi on Sunday night. As mess was not open on Sunday nights. Well why only Laxmi? Its simple, it was cheap, it was quick and Hera loved scrambled eggs! And each Sunday mess served chicken, so that craving was well satisfied!

               So at last it was time to see other things, at first Hera resisted the the idea, but when Monc said "Where are you going to take your girlfriend, when you get one?" He readily accepted. Hence, Hera took out some cash from bank, so did Rack and Monc. Together they had about 5K bucks. Now only one question remained, "Where  should we go?", as they asked each other at the same time. Rack said lets go to Fashion Street. All agreed. 

               They walked down the street and started looking for Tum-Tum (Six seater Auto-Rickshaw) going to Fashion Street, and they had to get on to bus. They did not get Tum-Tum. Next they got down at Cultural center of city, there was one big garden with a tank in it next to river. Followed by a Drama theater. They walked the street, looking at various restaurants they were all very attractive, but it was only 10:00 in morning and only had softy. All the time they walked, they attracted attraction towards them for there choice of song. Which was kind of bizarre, and they were singing rather shouting at the top there voice! It went something like this

                                                       Deko Deko yeh Hai jalwa

                                                                Deko Deko

                                                         V are going to Deko

                                                         U are going to Deko

              Well it went on that way! After that they took another bus, it dropped them near Fashion street, and they decided to walk there. On reaching there, Rack bought two T-shirts, Monc and Hera nothing, until on way out they saw a vendor selling  locates. All of them got a sword and Dragon one. Then had a monster burger, which turned out to be beef burger and all the three lost there religion there. Well Hera had some issues about religion after his prayers about Ruby were unheard so he did not tell others and they all enjoyed it. 

              After that, Hera pulled everyone to a music shop, where he bought about 10 audio tapes.  From there they started back for home, and to there amazement they had about 40 bucks left with them. They had to get back and also have dinner out in those 4o bucks, that was highly impossible. So they decided to just get back home, by hoping on and of bus they reached home and were now as hungry as if had eaten nothing since morning. They decided to buy bread, with all the coins they had about 18 bucks left. So they went to a shop, asked for bread, Hera held it in his hand and waited for Rack or Monc to make payment and was very tired at first to notice that they both had slipped out of shop while shopkeeper dealt with hordes of customers. Hera had no other option, he had no money, he was tired to bone, but most importantly he was hungry as hell, he made a run for it, no one followed.

             Thus with the saved money they got 6 eggs and were very happy to have made kill! However, the happiness was short lived and vanished as soon as they reached room. Hight of shortsightedness boys can display when it comes to cooking. They had 6 eggs and a bread pack, a electric coil stove but not a single utensil. After 15 minutes of cursing there heads cooled and then Rack had a great idea. 

            Rack: "I have an idea."

            Monc: "Do not even think of eating raw eggs.'                                        

            Rack: "We do have a water heating electric rod."

            Monc: "Even if we get water to boil in a bucket as big as that one, (pointing to one for bath) the amount of water wasted will be too much (20 liters) and it will take at least an hour."

            Hera: "We do not need to use that one, we can use the one in toilet, its only 4 liters and water will boil in about 15 minutes." 

            Oh! by then Crack had also shown up, he too was broke and hungry! So he too joined in, his contribution was some mirch masala and salt that he borrowed from STD auntie.

            Before anyone can take an objection Hera had moved swiftly, even before completing the sentence he was saying and dropped all eggs into the toilet bucket! By then Rack had got the rod out and he planted it in the bucket and as soon as it was filled enough started switch.  They enjoyed the dinner and claim it was one of the most delicious one they had.

               It was a nice day, and Hera was interested in lazing around, after all it was an off day of college and no writeup was there to write about. Hence, no one was going to wakeup or wake others up. However, something was making Hera uneasy about just sleeping. At first he thought it was sun, and ignored it as sun shifts with day, rays will move away from his bed. Of course, he could have just closed the door or curtains, but who would get up! But it did not stop even after an hour. 

               Hence, at last Hera got up, looked around to see Rack, Crack and Suun still sleeping on there beds without any problem in world. Checked around his bed, for source of discomfort, did not find any and so decided to go out. Cleaned up, in sense washed his face, brushed teeth and was out to have coffee. At the coffee shop, which was just next door, Uncle and Auntie, the owners and somehow still felt uneasy. Saw girls call home and say hi hello, on a hunch decided to do so too. Checked his purse and there was not much in there, had not remembered to get money out of the account. After much debating over use of money, went ahead and decided to call home for sure, so stepped in to booth and dialed number. 

              Tring........ Tring........Tring...........13 times no answer! Dialed again, Tring........Tring..........picked up, 

                Hera : "Hello" 

                From there : "yes"

                it was mom, 

                Hera: "How are you mummy?"

                Mom: "I am fine, tell me how are you? Are you eating properly? study hard son, i have sent some ladoos with your Papa, you should call more often...."

                Hera: "Papa is coming?"( When?)

                Mom: "Oh, i thought you have called from his cell phone. Well, then he will reach in an hour or so."

                Hera: (An Hour. got to run.)" I have to go mummy, I will call from papa's cell phone that will cost less. Okay bye! "

                And phone was cut.

                 Hera sprinted at full speed from booth to his room, shouted, kicked, punched, threw water all in a matter of 5 minutes, to wake up all of them, cursing him as they did wake up. But were surprised to see, what Hera was doing. 

                 In one hand Hera had a Jhadu, and with another was trying to unfold a new bed sheet and cover the bed. Without asking any questions, Rack got up and started cleaning his own bed, while crack ran for ashtray, a few buds lying in room and pack of cigarette. Suun , was still dumb founded and asked, 

                "Why are you ruining a perfect holiday by starting clean up mission! For gods sake its not deepawali!"

                 Rack: "Hera's father is coming." 

                 Suun: Thinking"Then why are you both cleaning up."

                 Crack:"Cause, if his father sees this room as it is, they will tell our parents."

                 Suun:"Oh God! By when will he reach here."

                 he also started cleaning up.

                 Hera:"Most probably, we have between 30 to 60 minutes."

                 All of them looked at Hera, and as they saw, he was not slowing down, they sped up. After all every ones parents knew there was a bai for the job of cleaning up! Which was obviously not true. 

                 Rack had started with Cracks' bed, while Crack had taken up the Jhadu and was sweeping as quickly as possible, while Hera had started to heat water for washing clothes, Suun went out and got washing powder, also had to pay for Hera's phone call. Suun started washing clothes, Hera got a bucket of water and poured it in room as soon as Crack had sweep-ed floor, wall and ceiling. And then let it flow out, using mop the two of them, Crack and Hera cleaned the floor. Rack went in to balcony and cleaned most of it, then when it was clear that all the leaves that are there outside can not be racked out of house and burned in time, he made a mountain of it, and hoped someone could do something of it.  

                  Everything else was done, except hanging clothes for drying and the leaves lying in balcony. What to do, what to do? Then Hera got an idea. he ran in, lifted Racks' bed and removed the cover of his mattress.  Looking at Hera, Rack to joined in and soon both were filling the leaves in to the cover, which looked like a big gunny bag.  Still no idea, what to do, meanwhile, Crack and Suun were hand drying the clothes, one was holding the jeans tight with all his might, while the other twisted it around to drain water from it and hanging them on balcony wall. Mean while Monc came in and seeing the cleanness of the room was surprised. Seeing, the make shift gunny bag, he said "So you are making an extra bed in balcony! great, I will help you flatten it out."

                   And thats what they did, got an extra bed sheet and spread it over the new mattress and finally relaxed. Absent in there mission, all 5 of them did not realized the interest they generated among girls of the two hostel that was straight opposite to there balcony. Who watched there ordeal with much interest. Then Hera's father arrived, and all got complements for keeping the room clean. And scolding for not having bathed even though it was 15:00 in afternoon!

                    That evening, they had a short party, after having bathed and worn clean clothes, ate the homemade food brought by Hera's father, Hera called his mother and everyone saddled for the night. Next day, Hera's father left for home town while all roommates decided to have a run around city, after all, it was another off day.......