The atmosphere had changed a bit. The two boys, Kabir and Rohan, had now become like heroes. The young master seemed somewhat scared and dejected. He could no longer meet Kabir alone as he used to because Kabir had started to stay surrounded by other boys.
It had also reached their ears that all three trainers were pushing for a chance to go as coaches with the players. It was certain that both players had a greater possibility of being chosen as a coach from this academy due to their selection. Nevertheless, people were not shying away from using their influence and political connections regarding this matter. A final decision was still awaited.
In about a week, both players were to attend a training camp being held at a stadium in the same metropolis where all these players had recently gone for selection.
Outside the chief trainer’s room, there was a beautiful portrait of the late Rajmata, whose memory had led to the establishment of this academy. After the morning run and practice, both players, Rohan and Kabir, were often seen outside that room. They usually went for breakfast after paying their respects at the portrait of the Rajmata. Occasionally, Kabir would even bring incense to offer in front of the portrait.
After all, this was the place that had illuminated his life. It is said that as one’s achievements in life increase, so do their beliefs.
Suddenly one day, the boys learned that their trainer, the young master, had left the academy. Speculations ran wild, and various rumors began to circulate. Some said that the master was ill and had gone to his village for a long leave due to his illness. Others claimed to have received news from somewhere that his relatives had complained about him, and to avoid police action, he had suddenly gone underground. He had left without anyone knowing where he had gone.
When the boys asked Kabir about him, he would be taken aback and gaze in astonishment at the faces of those asking. He had no idea what had happened, how it had happened, and why it had happened. However, it was certain that Kabir too had started to feel somewhat low and disheartened. The excitement that had previously been on his face due to success had suddenly vanished without a trace.
After dinner, sometimes Kabir, Rohan, and a few other boys would meet to walk around, and the discussion would inevitably turn to why the young master’s relatives had lodged a complaint against him. Had they found out something about the young master’s connections? Had someone said something to those people about the young master and Kabir?
At times, Kabir would even start to blame himself internally, making him feel even more despondent. Yet, he would also think to himself that the master should have at least informed him before leaving in such a manner. It seemed as though a shadow had fallen over his happiness regarding his success.
The other two trainers tried their best to convey that nothing had happened and that everything was fine, but the boys were still unable to digest this easily and would bring it up at every opportunity.
And then one day, that news arrived!
