Chapter 30: chapter 30

I continued to press them for answers, trying to understand the full extent of their actions and the motivations behind them. Major Arjun and I were determined to get to the bottom of this betrayal.Major Vayu finally broke his silence, his voice filled with remorse."Riya, we know what we did was wrong, but we felt it was the only way to make our voices heard. We've been overlooked and side-lined for far too long. We thought this would force the higher-ups to recognize our contributions."Agni added, "It wasn't just about recognition; it was also about seeking justice for the unfair treatment we've endured."Their explanations, while not justifying their actions, shed some light on the deep-seated frustration and resentment that had driven them to this point. It was clear that they had felt unheard and undervalued within the cantonment, and their desperation had led them down a dangerous path.Major Arjun, asked, "Did you ever consider the consequences of your actions? You put the security of this cantonment and the lives of your fellow officers at risk."Major Vayu nodded, his remorse deepening. "We understand that now, Arjun. We never intended for things to escalate this far. It started as a way to make a point, but it spiralled out of control."I couldn't help but feel conflicted. While their grievances were real, their methods were reckless and risky.The atmosphere in my office was tense, and Major Arjun and I exchanged concerned glances. It was clear that Major Priya, Major Vayu, and Agni had allowed their frustration to cloud their judgment, leading them down a unsafe path."Madam Riya, We can't let personal grievances compromise the security of the cantonment and the trust we have within the unit. We must report this immediately to Colonel Sharma." Arjun spoke.Major Vayu spoke again, his voice filled with regret. "I'm sorry, Riya. I never wanted it to come to this. We were just so desperate for recognition."I nodded, feeling a mix of anger, disappointment, and sympathy. "Recognition should be earned through dedication, hard work, and commitment, not through actions that put lives at risk."Major Arjun picked up his phone and dialled Colonel Sharma's number. This time, he explained the situation in detail, including the motives behind the actions of Major Priya, Vayu, and Agni. It was clear that they would face serious consequences for their actions.As we awaited Colonel Sharma's arrival, I couldn't help but wonder how our friendship had reached this point, where betrayal and recklessness had taken precedence over duty and honour.When Colonel Sharma arrived, he was visibly disappointed but composed. He listened to the account of the situation and the motives behind the security breaches. After a long pause, he finally spoke."Major Priya, Vayu, Agni, your actions have not only compromised the security of this cantonment but also the trust that binds our unit. There are proper channels to address grievances, and this was not the way to go about it." He continued, "You will face a military tribunal for your actions. The charges include endangering the security of the cantonment, and derogatory conduct of an officer."The room fell silent once more as the weight of the consequences settled in. Major Priya, Vayu, Agni, and other Night Owls were taken into custody and escorted away, their fate now in the hands of military justice.As the door closed behind them, Colonel Sharma turned to Major Arjun and me. "This has been a challenging ordeal for both of you, and I commend your dedication to uncovering the truth. You have done a great job, do give yourself some rest and I am thankful for your persistence and discreet methods to conduct this investigation as we couldn't let anyone outside this cantonment know our weaknesses!"We nodded in acknowledgment, knowing that our duty to the cantonment and our fellow officers would always come first. The events of the past few days had tested our resolve and the strength of our partnership.In the days that followed, the cantonment slowly returned to a sense of normalcy. Security measures were reviewed and strengthened to prevent such incidents from happening again.One evening, as we sat in my office, sipping on cups of coffee, Major Arjun looked relaxed."Madam Riya, it's been quite a journey, hasn't it? I have learned a lot from you!""Thank You Major, thanks to you too. We've seen the best and worst of our fellow officers, and we've faced challenges that we never could have predicted."Major Arjun smiled, a rare moment of vulnerability. "Through it all, I couldn't have asked for a better leader. Your dedication and unwavering commitment are truly admirable."I returned his smile, appreciating his words. "And I couldn't have asked for a more capable and steadfast associate than you, Major Arjun. Together, we make a great team."As we clinked our coffee cups together in a silent toast, I couldn't help but think that sometimes, it's in the face of adversity that true friendships are forged.I had considered Priya and Agni my good friends but they were jealous of my position and this incident just made me more stronger. I never wanted them to suffer because of me, but they shattered their respect and trust. Trust is the most difficult thing in our lives, it takes so much time to build one and a second to break!"Madam Riya, can I ask you a personal question if you don't mind?"I was surprised by that sudden change of gears but let him ask as I wanted to know what was going on in his mind."You know one thing, You remind me of my best friend who is also very committed and honest, who all is there in your family? As I never see you talking to family?"Though my relationship with Arjun was only as work colleagues I felt he was getting drawn towards me when he asked this question. The moment he mentioned Best Friend and Family, I thought of Animesh, but I didn't tell that to Major Arjun, and said I have none.That's when a new enquiry process started, it was my internal enquiry to find out if I can make my relationship with Animesh known to the people around me?~~~~~