Unseen, unstoppable ….

I wonder why have I been invited to this derelict building. The instructions are clear. Enter the building through an entrance with an uneven shape. Take the staircase leading to the terrace, and wait. I follow instructions and reach the terrace. The sight almost makes me faint, but I am a hardened soldier expected to … Continue reading Unseen, unstoppable ….

A mother heart fears

This is where her destiny calls, and it scares me a little. My child will grow up, and enter the world of infinite opportunities. The ships, captains and marine life all invite her to come and explore …. and achieve something out of the ordinary. She is fascinated by water, and is being trained in … Continue reading A mother heart fears

Thawing

“The tree that we so carefully planted is barren today,” a frozen soul whispered to another. “You changed.” “And you?” “We were unable to nurture the plant. The children have flown the nest. We are practically strangers to one another.” “Trees lend wood even after they are cut. We can have a great fireplace, where … Continue reading Thawing

Silent tears

"Take my two cents on this. There is something shady about those friends of yours." "Dad, you know nothing. They are a creative lot, and soon, we are going to be in the news." They sure were. Police dogs on a scent trail had reached their house. The musical band was banned forever. It was … Continue reading Silent tears

It hurts….

The young soldier’s wife broke down on seeing her husband with an amputated leg. He had suffered frostbite while serving in the Siachen Glacier at temperatures well below zero. Touching metal with bare hands could cause bites. Six of them would share a tiny igloo made of fiber at night, to keep themselves warm. Her … Continue reading It hurts….

Foundations

Antono had received a box of picture postcards from his grandfather, as a part of his inheritance. There were messages in his handwriting on the backside, which never drew his attention. His sister was the one who devoured each word. Their parents divorced and they moved to different cities, one with each parent, leading separate … Continue reading Foundations

Chili Mushroom

The life of Mien Zong was featured in the inspirational Rags-to-Riches magazine section. He was a man of few words – short and stout, with an enigmatic smile. He wore a cylindrical hat which could classify him as a chef or magician, but not the successful businessman he was. It had been his signature style … Continue reading Chili Mushroom

Imperfection

Robin was arrested for stealing a loaf of bread for his hungry mother. Raja and Kenny were released from detention, after being tried for a scam of 200 billions. Salamander K. is a free man despite running his luxury car over a family sleeping on the pavement. The allegations could not be proved in court. … Continue reading Imperfection

Monumental

The tourist guide was in his element. “Princess Grace was trying to elope with her lover. They were mysteriously trapped in a pyramid of snow by the King. When the Queen begged for her daughter’s life, he laid down a condition. If they survived the winter with the warmth of their love, the snow would … Continue reading Monumental

Uncertain

She had landed in a valley after that near fatal accident. There was an impenetrable face besides the bed. “Well…. Thanks for saving my life.” Silence… “It’s such a beautiful place. And we always thought there were monsters in the valley.” “We are careful about the projections that go out. The holes in the structures … Continue reading Uncertain