30-09-2025, 11:25 PM
(CHAPTER CONTD)
FEW DAYS LATER
Hemant Kumar sat in his office at YOD Industries, leaning over the polished table where the blueprints from ANVIL lay spread out. His eyes narrowed as he traced the intricate details of the custom handheld weapons, his mind running calculations, risks, and opportunities. The hum of the AC vent and the faint metallic scent of oil from the nearby factory floor kept him grounded in the present—until a soft knock broke his focus. Raquel stepped in with his usual easy smile, hands clasped behind his back.
"Bhaijaan" he said with warmth.
"I have a surprise for you"
Hemant raised an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair.
"Surprise? Raquel, unless it’s a shipment cleared through customs without headaches, I don’t have patience for riddles"
But Raquel only chuckled and motioned for him to rise. Reluctantly, Hemant pushed himself up, curiosity pricking through his stern exterior.
"You’ll see, Bhaijaan" Raquel said.
"But this one… this one is for you, not for the company"
The two men walked through the glass doors of the office, stepping into the evening glow outside. Parked in the entranceway, a vehicle sat cloaked under a shimmering black cover, its shape unmistakably sleek. Raquel gestured toward it like a magician presenting his trick.
"Go on" he urged.
"Unveil it yourself"
Hemant’s hand hesitated for a moment, then he gripped the fabric and pulled it away in one strong sweep. His breath caught. Before him stood a 2003 BMW E39 M5, gleaming in metallic green, its BMW emblem replaced with a fierce eagle sigil. For a long moment, Hemant said nothing. His eyes lingered on the sharp lines, the growl hidden beneath its hood, and memories rushed back—the streets of London, the fear in the eyes of criminals, the nights where Michael King reigned as shadow and hammer.
"Is this the same car?"
Hemant’s voice was softer than usual, carrying weight. Raquel nodded, pride flickering in his eyes.
"Not the same one, Bhaijaan. This is built for Mumbai roads. Right-hand drive. Modern interiors. But it carries the same spirit"
Hemant turned to him, confusion and gratitude mixing.
"Why give me this? Why drag Michael King out of the shadows?"
Raquel stepped forward, lowering his tone.
"Because Hemant Kumar is no longer just a man working contracts. You’re a magnate now. YOD isn’t just machines and factories—it’s an empire. And sometimes, an empire needs a symbol. That car was once your armor, your identity. Now, it’s your crown"
At Raquel’s signal, a line of young men stepped forward, all dressed in crisp formal attire, each bearing the YOD Industries badge. Hemant’s eyes narrowed. He knew them , they were the men that accompanied him in his rampage against Dilawar and Rafique
"So these are our new recruits?"
Raquel smiled knowingly.
"Precisely, Bhaijaan. The men you wanted. Army rejects—court-martialled, dishonored, cast out. But they’re fighters, disciplined at their core. And every one of them knows the legend of Michael King. They’ll follow you, protect this empire, because you gave them a new home"
Hemant moved down the line, shaking hands, meeting each gaze with the weight of his presence. Some stood tall, some bowed with respect, but all of them radiated loyalty. Kamya, Vaibhav, and the engineers soon joined, their presence making the gathering feel like a mosaic of past and present. Hemant finally addressed them all, his voice firm yet fatherly.
"Listen well. We are not a gang. I am not Michael King anymore. This is YOD Industries. Here, you don’t fight for streets, you fight for family—this family. Our strength will not come from fear but from loyalty and unity"
As he glanced back at the emerald M5, his lips curved into a faint smile. For the first time, Hemant Kumar felt he could embrace both his past and his present—the vigilante’s shadow and the tycoon’s light.
FEW DAYS LATER AT DILAWAR'S COLONY
The colony still carried the scars of Dilawar’s rule—burned walls, shattered windows, and the faint smell of hopelessness clinging to the air. But today was different. Men and women were patching bricks, children were scrubbing paint onto old walls, and the sound of hammers echoed like a heartbeat of rebirth. Just as hope began to flicker, a screeching open jeep tore through the street. A group of thugs, loud and brash, stood tall in it. Their leader, a scar-faced brute, shouted.
"Even though Dilawar and Rafique are gone, this colony is still ours! From now on, I run it!"
One of the residents, an elderly man with trembling hands, stepped forward.
"We don’t want gangs anymore… leave us alone. Let us live"
His words were brave, but fragile. The thug’s face twisted in rage. He stormed forward, slapping the old man so hard he fell into the dust.
"Shut your mouth! No one can stop me. Not Law Enforcement, not another gang, nobody!"
He roared, raising his boot to stomp the man. Nearby a child was listening to music just to bring some sort of joy in his life. He was listening to the recently trending Guns N Roses song from the Telugu Movie They Call Him OG. As the child was listening to the song , the ambience of it paved the way for what was about to happen at that moment in the Colony.
Rise For The Warrior
Bow To The Savior
Leader He Conqueror
King N The Lord
Rise For The Warrior
Bow To The Savior
Leader He Conqueror
King N The Lord
As the song kicked in. The growl of engines joined with it. First came an armored jeep, heavy, indomitable, its front painted with the YOD Industries insignia. Behind it, the low purr of a 2003 BMW E39 M5 with an Eagle sigil glinting on its front. Dust swirled as both vehicles rolled to a stop. The thugs faltered, exchanging uncertain glances, but tried to mask their nerves with laughter.
The armored jeep’s doors opened, and men poured out. Not ordinary men—each wore black armored uniforms stamped with the YOD logo, their weapons sleek and advanced, far beyond anything the colony had seen. They formed a line, rifles angled just enough to remind everyone who held power now. They didn’t move further. Instead, they parted. A silent corridor opened, waiting. The child held on to the music device as he watched the arrival in front of him.
He Not On The Tame
Burning Through The Blame
Raining On Flame
Winner In The Game
The driver’s door of the BMW clicked open, and Raquel stepped out, a shadow in tailored black. He adjusted his gloves, scanned the crowd, then turned to the rear seat. Without a word, he walked back and opened the door with deliberate slowness. A silence swept the colony. Dust rose as polished shoes touched the ground. Then, Hemant Kumar emerged.
Guns And Roses
They Gonna Be Vicious
The Devil Colored Glasses
Oh They Show You The Bruises
Guns N' Roses, We Got The Uzis
Gangsta (Gangster) Coming Walkin Through
The Firestorm, Rages
Guns N' Roses
Kicking The Asses
Rebel In The Black Tie,
Rebel And Roses
Guns N' Roses Wreckin Posers
Better Get You Runnin
Cause The Gangster Chases
He was dressed to command—red blazer over black, dark glasses hiding his eyes but reflecting the Eagle sigil on his car like fire. He didn’t glance at the thugs at first. His gaze swept the colony, the cracked walls, the bruised people, and the small child watching him with wide, mesmerized eyes , he looked at him like he was some Action Hero character in real life. Hemant adjusted his cuffs and walked forward as though the dirt feared to touch him.
His men stood guard as Hemant walked in through the walkway made by them. Near the car , Raquel stood and saw fragments of Michael King echoing through Hemant , admiring the way he carried himself. This is what he is , a Leader , a Commander , and all the more , a Savior.
"From this day, this colony will be under YOD Industries’ protection. Anyone who tries to poison it with crime or fear will meet deadly force"
He turned his head slightly toward the thugs, his aviators glinting.
"So Dilawar and his third favorite stooge can fuck off. Because this place will be following my orders to deal with sick stray dogs with lethal treatment!"
The scar-faced leader barked a laugh to hide his fear.
"Treatment? You think I’ll bow down to you?!"
He lunged at Hemant with a roar. But Hemant didn’t flinch. In one swift motion, he caught the thug mid-charge, lifted him, and slammed him down with a bone-shaking move, a brutal spinebuster that cracked the ground beneath. Dust exploded upward. The crowd gasped. The thug writhed, groaning. As the song played out in that child's music device. It's lyrics encapsulated Hemant's motivation at that moment perfectly.
(Telugu Song Verse Translated To English)
The cold rain is pouring heavily. Without shelter, I keep wandering in the storm.
Blood-soaked and exhausted, I endure the pain.
Shivering, trembling, my body breaks down.
The fire within me grows fierce and unceasing.
Darkness surrounds me, yet my blood keeps flowing.
I remain steadfast in my promise.
I walk through thorny paths without any fear.
No matter how lost the path may seem,
Nor how twisted the branches grow,
I will break through every obstacle that comes my way.
If the walls come close, I will bring them down.
I will stand and fight with all my strength and courage.
The other goons shouted and tried to rush in, but the YOD security raised their weapons in unison, unleashing warning shots into the dirt just inches from their feet. The sound rattled the walls. The thugs froze, eyes wide, courage broken. Some dropped their sticks, others stumbled back in terror. Hemant stood over the fallen leader, expression unreadable.
"Raquel" he said calmly.
"Call the harbor. Tell them to ready the boat. We’ve got fresh meat for the sharks"
The thug’s bravado shattered.
"No—please! Don’t! I’ll leave, I swear! Please!"
He begged as Raquel’s men tied him up and dragged him toward the jeep. The colony erupted in murmurs. Hemant finally turned to the people, removing his glasses. His eyes were sharp, filled with conviction.
"No one here will live in fear anymore. From today, you live with pride and honor. YOD will protect you. We’ll build a college, create jobs, and form a committee run by you, the residents. Your children will grow with books in their hands, not chains around their necks"
His words lit something in the crowd. Some wept openly, others shouted blessings. Hemant’s soldiers moved to set up a checkpoint, planting the YOD insignia like a new flag of justice. Hemant raised his voice one last time:
"Dilawar is dead. His shadow will never touch you again. This is no longer Dilawar’s Kingdom"
He paused, letting the silence stretch, then thundered:
"From this day forward, this place is Azad Colony—the home of the free!"
The cheers shook the air, louder than any gunshot. Children danced, elders folded hands, and workers picked up their tools with renewed fire. Hemant stood tall, the architect of freedom, watching the colony rise again. He greeted the happy residents who felt the release from suffering and slavery quiet relieving. Hemant patted some on their shoulders , held his palms in a namaste to great some old and female residents. He eventually reached the child that was listening to the song. He was captivated seeing Hemant and his grandeur as he approached the little child.
"Hey Kiddo!"
The child was flabbergasted as he innocently asked.
"Are you......Rocky Bhai?"
Hemant giggled a little hearing such an innocent but preposterous question. He eventually responded.
"No , Kiddo. I am not. And I assure you , you don't want to be Rocky Bhai either"
Hemant kneeled in front of him and said.
"You're too young to understand all this but understand this young one. If you focus on your studies and physical self , you can be much much more than just Rocky Bhai.....you can actually change the world...."
The child listened to him with awe as Hemant concluded.
"So , I will very soon rebuild the college. I want you to study , make your mummy and daddy proud by being a good student and your friends happy by being a good companion. This colony will forever be your home!"
He hugged the kid and gave him a small gift of chocolate , he gleefully walked to his parents as Hemant joined the rest of the colony residents celebrating their freedom.
FEW DAYS LATER OUTSIDE MUMBAI , AT AIROLI
Hemant Kumar sat back in the lavish waiting room of REGALCORP’s towering complex, fingers drumming lightly on the mahogany armrest. The air was perfumed, expensive, but it reeked of excess. His eyes wandered to the wall, to the massive Mehta family portrait. The stern Hansraj Mehta at the center. Siddharth on the left, arrogant, youthful fire in his eyes. And then Pranitha on the right—her elegance radiating warmth that stirred something in Hemant. His gaze lingered longer than it should have. A flicker of longing, of unspoken tension. Then came the heavy thump-thump-thump of rotor blades, snapping him back into the present.
Through the glass façade, Hemant spotted the sleek Airbus ACH160 helicopter descending gracefully onto the private helipad. Siddharth Mehta emerged with his entourage, flanked by the imposing Gurmeet Chaddha. Hemant’s lips curled faintly. The showmanship didn’t move him. Rolls Royce waiting. Security detail choreographed like a stage play. It all smelled like desperation for validation. Minutes later, as Siddharth strode through his reception lobby, he noticed the green BMW E39 M5 parked outside. He let out a mocking laugh, loud enough for Chaddha to hear.
"A relic" Siddharth smirked.
"And with an eagle crest instead of BMW’s? Trying too hard"
Chaddha chuckled, but Hemant heard the echo of arrogance even from inside. He leaned back in his chair, unimpressed, waiting for Siddharth’s little game to end. Fifteen deliberate minutes passed. Finally, the receptionist gestured.
"Mr. Kumar, Mr. Mehta will see you now"
Inside the office, Siddharth greeted him with a polished smile.
"Hemant Kumar" he said smoothly.
"Welcome to REGALCORP Officially"
"Glad to be here Siddharth" Hemant said with a smile.
"Please , call me Sid"
"Okay Sid"
"Is it tea or coffee"
"Your choice , either is fine with me"
As the order for the tea went out. Siddharth had a casual talk with Hemant.
"You built YOD Industries from scratch and landed a government contract in less than a year. Impressive"
Hemant returned the smile.
"Results matter more than applause, Siddharth"
"Indeed , but your growth has been quiet a spectacle. I mean , my father. He is not that easily impressed"
"I am honored"
"You know when Pranitha first introduced you. I really expected you to be a type"
"What type?"
"Uhh....you know....the supressing , yes man type.....I mean in all honesty , that is the kind of men she was involved with"
"Last I remembered , she married Yash , one of your friend circle and didn't exactly ended in a good note"
"Are you saying I am stupid?"
"No? Just stating the fact that not everyone person doesn't end up what you see. You thought Yash will provide a great future for Pranitha and in the end it was the worst decision for her"
"You seem to be a bit interested in my sister Hemant?"
"She was my first introduction to the Mehta Family. And also my first Mehta Family investment"
"The hospital? Please , that thing is a social service. Its a loss making fraternity"
"Some things are not meant for profits Siddharth"
"Tell me that when Sanjeevani would end up raising costs to stay open in the future"
"Don't worry about Sanjeevani or Pranitha. She will have help when she needs"
"Whatever , back to YOD Industries. The Indian Army is quiet impressed by your latest hardware to them"
"YOD works on efficiency and result. We work in getting the best results"
"Of course" Siddharth said, settling into his leather chair.
"Which is why I think it’s time you step into the big leagues. REGALCORP has a need—five tons of Alignment Knots. YOD can deliver, yes?"
Hemant’s eyes narrowed slightly. He saw through it instantly.
"Five tons? That’s not a deal, Sid. That’s sabotage. You know my resources, my scale. This is designed to break me"
Siddharth leaned forward, feigning mentorship.
"Sometimes you have to take risks, Hemant. If you want to be more than a small-time supplier, you must gamble"
Hemant’s voice turned sharp, steady.
"I already gambled when I started YOD. And I see through your intentions. So here’s my counter—either you take what I can provide, or you get nothing"
The silence was electric. Siddharth smirked, trying another angle.
"You come here in an outdated BMW, flaunting nostalgia, and you dare lecture me? That car wouldn’t hold a candle to my Rolls"
Hemant’s lips twitched into a grin.
"I prefer performance over statement. That old BMW represents my personal history and my drive to success and it can embarrass your million-dollar Rolls on any road, any day"
Chaddha’s eyebrow twitched. Siddharth’s smirk faltered. The jab had landed.
Finally, Siddharth exhaled, giving up ground.
"Fine. How about a shipment of five thousand units of Alignment Knots. We’ll start there"
Hemant rose smoothly.
"Wise choice" His voice carried the finality of a hammer strike.
"Let’s keep business practical, Sid"
In the lobby, Raquel stood beside the green M5, suited sharp, posture crisp. As Hemant approached, Raquel opened the back door.
"All good, Bhaijaan?"
Hemant slid in with a smug half-smile.
"Siddharth’s bitten our bone"
Raquel chuckled, firing up the BMW’s engine as they rolled towards the complex’s massive gates. But just as they reached the electronic barrier, it refused to open. The guard muttered into his radio.
"Malfunction, sir. Please wait" Hemant’s eyes flickered knowingly. Raquel frowned.
"He’s trying to scare us"
"No" Hemant corrected calmly.
"A pack of dogs is trying to scare a tiger. But they don’t know that this is my jungle now"
He pulled out his phone, dialing. Siddharth’s voice came cold. “Leaving already, Hemant?”
Hemant’s reply was sharper than steel.
"Sid, you need to fix your security system. Once I’m gone"
He ended the call without waiting for a response. Pressing a discreet button on his watch, Hemant watched as the massive gate groaned open by itself. Guards gasped. Siddharth and Chaddha froze inside, stunned. As Raquel drove them out, Hemant pressed the button again—the gates slammed shut. A tiger had left his mark. Siddharth furiously asked.
"I told you not to open the gate without my word"
Chaddha was confused from that whole fiasco as he responded.
"We never opened the gate sir. Our entire system was breached an hour ago. It was a sabotage , and actual Sabotage!"
Siddharth was stunned as he looked ahead , watching Hemant's ride disappear into the traffic in the distance. He murmured to himself.
"This Hemant Kumar is not who he seems"
(TO BE CONTD)
Hemant Kumar sat in his office at YOD Industries, leaning over the polished table where the blueprints from ANVIL lay spread out. His eyes narrowed as he traced the intricate details of the custom handheld weapons, his mind running calculations, risks, and opportunities. The hum of the AC vent and the faint metallic scent of oil from the nearby factory floor kept him grounded in the present—until a soft knock broke his focus. Raquel stepped in with his usual easy smile, hands clasped behind his back.
"Bhaijaan" he said with warmth.
"I have a surprise for you"
Hemant raised an eyebrow, leaning back in his chair.
"Surprise? Raquel, unless it’s a shipment cleared through customs without headaches, I don’t have patience for riddles"
But Raquel only chuckled and motioned for him to rise. Reluctantly, Hemant pushed himself up, curiosity pricking through his stern exterior.
"You’ll see, Bhaijaan" Raquel said.
"But this one… this one is for you, not for the company"
The two men walked through the glass doors of the office, stepping into the evening glow outside. Parked in the entranceway, a vehicle sat cloaked under a shimmering black cover, its shape unmistakably sleek. Raquel gestured toward it like a magician presenting his trick.
"Go on" he urged.
"Unveil it yourself"
Hemant’s hand hesitated for a moment, then he gripped the fabric and pulled it away in one strong sweep. His breath caught. Before him stood a 2003 BMW E39 M5, gleaming in metallic green, its BMW emblem replaced with a fierce eagle sigil. For a long moment, Hemant said nothing. His eyes lingered on the sharp lines, the growl hidden beneath its hood, and memories rushed back—the streets of London, the fear in the eyes of criminals, the nights where Michael King reigned as shadow and hammer.
"Is this the same car?"
Hemant’s voice was softer than usual, carrying weight. Raquel nodded, pride flickering in his eyes.
"Not the same one, Bhaijaan. This is built for Mumbai roads. Right-hand drive. Modern interiors. But it carries the same spirit"
Hemant turned to him, confusion and gratitude mixing.
"Why give me this? Why drag Michael King out of the shadows?"
Raquel stepped forward, lowering his tone.
"Because Hemant Kumar is no longer just a man working contracts. You’re a magnate now. YOD isn’t just machines and factories—it’s an empire. And sometimes, an empire needs a symbol. That car was once your armor, your identity. Now, it’s your crown"
At Raquel’s signal, a line of young men stepped forward, all dressed in crisp formal attire, each bearing the YOD Industries badge. Hemant’s eyes narrowed. He knew them , they were the men that accompanied him in his rampage against Dilawar and Rafique
"So these are our new recruits?"
Raquel smiled knowingly.
"Precisely, Bhaijaan. The men you wanted. Army rejects—court-martialled, dishonored, cast out. But they’re fighters, disciplined at their core. And every one of them knows the legend of Michael King. They’ll follow you, protect this empire, because you gave them a new home"
Hemant moved down the line, shaking hands, meeting each gaze with the weight of his presence. Some stood tall, some bowed with respect, but all of them radiated loyalty. Kamya, Vaibhav, and the engineers soon joined, their presence making the gathering feel like a mosaic of past and present. Hemant finally addressed them all, his voice firm yet fatherly.
"Listen well. We are not a gang. I am not Michael King anymore. This is YOD Industries. Here, you don’t fight for streets, you fight for family—this family. Our strength will not come from fear but from loyalty and unity"
As he glanced back at the emerald M5, his lips curved into a faint smile. For the first time, Hemant Kumar felt he could embrace both his past and his present—the vigilante’s shadow and the tycoon’s light.
FEW DAYS LATER AT DILAWAR'S COLONY
The colony still carried the scars of Dilawar’s rule—burned walls, shattered windows, and the faint smell of hopelessness clinging to the air. But today was different. Men and women were patching bricks, children were scrubbing paint onto old walls, and the sound of hammers echoed like a heartbeat of rebirth. Just as hope began to flicker, a screeching open jeep tore through the street. A group of thugs, loud and brash, stood tall in it. Their leader, a scar-faced brute, shouted.
"Even though Dilawar and Rafique are gone, this colony is still ours! From now on, I run it!"
One of the residents, an elderly man with trembling hands, stepped forward.
"We don’t want gangs anymore… leave us alone. Let us live"
His words were brave, but fragile. The thug’s face twisted in rage. He stormed forward, slapping the old man so hard he fell into the dust.
"Shut your mouth! No one can stop me. Not Law Enforcement, not another gang, nobody!"
He roared, raising his boot to stomp the man. Nearby a child was listening to music just to bring some sort of joy in his life. He was listening to the recently trending Guns N Roses song from the Telugu Movie They Call Him OG. As the child was listening to the song , the ambience of it paved the way for what was about to happen at that moment in the Colony.
Rise For The Warrior
Bow To The Savior
Leader He Conqueror
King N The Lord
Rise For The Warrior
Bow To The Savior
Leader He Conqueror
King N The Lord
As the song kicked in. The growl of engines joined with it. First came an armored jeep, heavy, indomitable, its front painted with the YOD Industries insignia. Behind it, the low purr of a 2003 BMW E39 M5 with an Eagle sigil glinting on its front. Dust swirled as both vehicles rolled to a stop. The thugs faltered, exchanging uncertain glances, but tried to mask their nerves with laughter.
The armored jeep’s doors opened, and men poured out. Not ordinary men—each wore black armored uniforms stamped with the YOD logo, their weapons sleek and advanced, far beyond anything the colony had seen. They formed a line, rifles angled just enough to remind everyone who held power now. They didn’t move further. Instead, they parted. A silent corridor opened, waiting. The child held on to the music device as he watched the arrival in front of him.
He Not On The Tame
Burning Through The Blame
Raining On Flame
Winner In The Game
The driver’s door of the BMW clicked open, and Raquel stepped out, a shadow in tailored black. He adjusted his gloves, scanned the crowd, then turned to the rear seat. Without a word, he walked back and opened the door with deliberate slowness. A silence swept the colony. Dust rose as polished shoes touched the ground. Then, Hemant Kumar emerged.
Guns And Roses
They Gonna Be Vicious
The Devil Colored Glasses
Oh They Show You The Bruises
Guns N' Roses, We Got The Uzis
Gangsta (Gangster) Coming Walkin Through
The Firestorm, Rages
Guns N' Roses
Kicking The Asses
Rebel In The Black Tie,
Rebel And Roses
Guns N' Roses Wreckin Posers
Better Get You Runnin
Cause The Gangster Chases
He was dressed to command—red blazer over black, dark glasses hiding his eyes but reflecting the Eagle sigil on his car like fire. He didn’t glance at the thugs at first. His gaze swept the colony, the cracked walls, the bruised people, and the small child watching him with wide, mesmerized eyes , he looked at him like he was some Action Hero character in real life. Hemant adjusted his cuffs and walked forward as though the dirt feared to touch him.
His men stood guard as Hemant walked in through the walkway made by them. Near the car , Raquel stood and saw fragments of Michael King echoing through Hemant , admiring the way he carried himself. This is what he is , a Leader , a Commander , and all the more , a Savior.
"From this day, this colony will be under YOD Industries’ protection. Anyone who tries to poison it with crime or fear will meet deadly force"
He turned his head slightly toward the thugs, his aviators glinting.
"So Dilawar and his third favorite stooge can fuck off. Because this place will be following my orders to deal with sick stray dogs with lethal treatment!"
The scar-faced leader barked a laugh to hide his fear.
"Treatment? You think I’ll bow down to you?!"
He lunged at Hemant with a roar. But Hemant didn’t flinch. In one swift motion, he caught the thug mid-charge, lifted him, and slammed him down with a bone-shaking move, a brutal spinebuster that cracked the ground beneath. Dust exploded upward. The crowd gasped. The thug writhed, groaning. As the song played out in that child's music device. It's lyrics encapsulated Hemant's motivation at that moment perfectly.
(Telugu Song Verse Translated To English)
The cold rain is pouring heavily. Without shelter, I keep wandering in the storm.
Blood-soaked and exhausted, I endure the pain.
Shivering, trembling, my body breaks down.
The fire within me grows fierce and unceasing.
Darkness surrounds me, yet my blood keeps flowing.
I remain steadfast in my promise.
I walk through thorny paths without any fear.
No matter how lost the path may seem,
Nor how twisted the branches grow,
I will break through every obstacle that comes my way.
If the walls come close, I will bring them down.
I will stand and fight with all my strength and courage.
The other goons shouted and tried to rush in, but the YOD security raised their weapons in unison, unleashing warning shots into the dirt just inches from their feet. The sound rattled the walls. The thugs froze, eyes wide, courage broken. Some dropped their sticks, others stumbled back in terror. Hemant stood over the fallen leader, expression unreadable.
"Raquel" he said calmly.
"Call the harbor. Tell them to ready the boat. We’ve got fresh meat for the sharks"
The thug’s bravado shattered.
"No—please! Don’t! I’ll leave, I swear! Please!"
He begged as Raquel’s men tied him up and dragged him toward the jeep. The colony erupted in murmurs. Hemant finally turned to the people, removing his glasses. His eyes were sharp, filled with conviction.
"No one here will live in fear anymore. From today, you live with pride and honor. YOD will protect you. We’ll build a college, create jobs, and form a committee run by you, the residents. Your children will grow with books in their hands, not chains around their necks"
His words lit something in the crowd. Some wept openly, others shouted blessings. Hemant’s soldiers moved to set up a checkpoint, planting the YOD insignia like a new flag of justice. Hemant raised his voice one last time:
"Dilawar is dead. His shadow will never touch you again. This is no longer Dilawar’s Kingdom"
He paused, letting the silence stretch, then thundered:
"From this day forward, this place is Azad Colony—the home of the free!"
The cheers shook the air, louder than any gunshot. Children danced, elders folded hands, and workers picked up their tools with renewed fire. Hemant stood tall, the architect of freedom, watching the colony rise again. He greeted the happy residents who felt the release from suffering and slavery quiet relieving. Hemant patted some on their shoulders , held his palms in a namaste to great some old and female residents. He eventually reached the child that was listening to the song. He was captivated seeing Hemant and his grandeur as he approached the little child.
"Hey Kiddo!"
The child was flabbergasted as he innocently asked.
"Are you......Rocky Bhai?"
Hemant giggled a little hearing such an innocent but preposterous question. He eventually responded.
"No , Kiddo. I am not. And I assure you , you don't want to be Rocky Bhai either"
Hemant kneeled in front of him and said.
"You're too young to understand all this but understand this young one. If you focus on your studies and physical self , you can be much much more than just Rocky Bhai.....you can actually change the world...."
The child listened to him with awe as Hemant concluded.
"So , I will very soon rebuild the college. I want you to study , make your mummy and daddy proud by being a good student and your friends happy by being a good companion. This colony will forever be your home!"
He hugged the kid and gave him a small gift of chocolate , he gleefully walked to his parents as Hemant joined the rest of the colony residents celebrating their freedom.
FEW DAYS LATER OUTSIDE MUMBAI , AT AIROLI
Hemant Kumar sat back in the lavish waiting room of REGALCORP’s towering complex, fingers drumming lightly on the mahogany armrest. The air was perfumed, expensive, but it reeked of excess. His eyes wandered to the wall, to the massive Mehta family portrait. The stern Hansraj Mehta at the center. Siddharth on the left, arrogant, youthful fire in his eyes. And then Pranitha on the right—her elegance radiating warmth that stirred something in Hemant. His gaze lingered longer than it should have. A flicker of longing, of unspoken tension. Then came the heavy thump-thump-thump of rotor blades, snapping him back into the present.
Through the glass façade, Hemant spotted the sleek Airbus ACH160 helicopter descending gracefully onto the private helipad. Siddharth Mehta emerged with his entourage, flanked by the imposing Gurmeet Chaddha. Hemant’s lips curled faintly. The showmanship didn’t move him. Rolls Royce waiting. Security detail choreographed like a stage play. It all smelled like desperation for validation. Minutes later, as Siddharth strode through his reception lobby, he noticed the green BMW E39 M5 parked outside. He let out a mocking laugh, loud enough for Chaddha to hear.
"A relic" Siddharth smirked.
"And with an eagle crest instead of BMW’s? Trying too hard"
Chaddha chuckled, but Hemant heard the echo of arrogance even from inside. He leaned back in his chair, unimpressed, waiting for Siddharth’s little game to end. Fifteen deliberate minutes passed. Finally, the receptionist gestured.
"Mr. Kumar, Mr. Mehta will see you now"
Inside the office, Siddharth greeted him with a polished smile.
"Hemant Kumar" he said smoothly.
"Welcome to REGALCORP Officially"
"Glad to be here Siddharth" Hemant said with a smile.
"Please , call me Sid"
"Okay Sid"
"Is it tea or coffee"
"Your choice , either is fine with me"
As the order for the tea went out. Siddharth had a casual talk with Hemant.
"You built YOD Industries from scratch and landed a government contract in less than a year. Impressive"
Hemant returned the smile.
"Results matter more than applause, Siddharth"
"Indeed , but your growth has been quiet a spectacle. I mean , my father. He is not that easily impressed"
"I am honored"
"You know when Pranitha first introduced you. I really expected you to be a type"
"What type?"
"Uhh....you know....the supressing , yes man type.....I mean in all honesty , that is the kind of men she was involved with"
"Last I remembered , she married Yash , one of your friend circle and didn't exactly ended in a good note"
"Are you saying I am stupid?"
"No? Just stating the fact that not everyone person doesn't end up what you see. You thought Yash will provide a great future for Pranitha and in the end it was the worst decision for her"
"You seem to be a bit interested in my sister Hemant?"
"She was my first introduction to the Mehta Family. And also my first Mehta Family investment"
"The hospital? Please , that thing is a social service. Its a loss making fraternity"
"Some things are not meant for profits Siddharth"
"Tell me that when Sanjeevani would end up raising costs to stay open in the future"
"Don't worry about Sanjeevani or Pranitha. She will have help when she needs"
"Whatever , back to YOD Industries. The Indian Army is quiet impressed by your latest hardware to them"
"YOD works on efficiency and result. We work in getting the best results"
"Of course" Siddharth said, settling into his leather chair.
"Which is why I think it’s time you step into the big leagues. REGALCORP has a need—five tons of Alignment Knots. YOD can deliver, yes?"
Hemant’s eyes narrowed slightly. He saw through it instantly.
"Five tons? That’s not a deal, Sid. That’s sabotage. You know my resources, my scale. This is designed to break me"
Siddharth leaned forward, feigning mentorship.
"Sometimes you have to take risks, Hemant. If you want to be more than a small-time supplier, you must gamble"
Hemant’s voice turned sharp, steady.
"I already gambled when I started YOD. And I see through your intentions. So here’s my counter—either you take what I can provide, or you get nothing"
The silence was electric. Siddharth smirked, trying another angle.
"You come here in an outdated BMW, flaunting nostalgia, and you dare lecture me? That car wouldn’t hold a candle to my Rolls"
Hemant’s lips twitched into a grin.
"I prefer performance over statement. That old BMW represents my personal history and my drive to success and it can embarrass your million-dollar Rolls on any road, any day"
Chaddha’s eyebrow twitched. Siddharth’s smirk faltered. The jab had landed.
Finally, Siddharth exhaled, giving up ground.
"Fine. How about a shipment of five thousand units of Alignment Knots. We’ll start there"
Hemant rose smoothly.
"Wise choice" His voice carried the finality of a hammer strike.
"Let’s keep business practical, Sid"
In the lobby, Raquel stood beside the green M5, suited sharp, posture crisp. As Hemant approached, Raquel opened the back door.
"All good, Bhaijaan?"
Hemant slid in with a smug half-smile.
"Siddharth’s bitten our bone"
Raquel chuckled, firing up the BMW’s engine as they rolled towards the complex’s massive gates. But just as they reached the electronic barrier, it refused to open. The guard muttered into his radio.
"Malfunction, sir. Please wait" Hemant’s eyes flickered knowingly. Raquel frowned.
"He’s trying to scare us"
"No" Hemant corrected calmly.
"A pack of dogs is trying to scare a tiger. But they don’t know that this is my jungle now"
He pulled out his phone, dialing. Siddharth’s voice came cold. “Leaving already, Hemant?”
Hemant’s reply was sharper than steel.
"Sid, you need to fix your security system. Once I’m gone"
He ended the call without waiting for a response. Pressing a discreet button on his watch, Hemant watched as the massive gate groaned open by itself. Guards gasped. Siddharth and Chaddha froze inside, stunned. As Raquel drove them out, Hemant pressed the button again—the gates slammed shut. A tiger had left his mark. Siddharth furiously asked.
"I told you not to open the gate without my word"
Chaddha was confused from that whole fiasco as he responded.
"We never opened the gate sir. Our entire system was breached an hour ago. It was a sabotage , and actual Sabotage!"
Siddharth was stunned as he looked ahead , watching Hemant's ride disappear into the traffic in the distance. He murmured to himself.
"This Hemant Kumar is not who he seems"
(TO BE CONTD)
![[+]](https://xossipy.com/themes/sharepoint/collapse_collapsed.png)