A story that will take you from the high rises of Bangkok to the paddy fields in Kalasin and you will find yourself amidst nature with beautiful waterfalls, monasteries and ancient pagodas.
Pavel is a 19-year-old spoiled brat busy with his multi-millionaire lifestyle. Booze, bars and girls are his preferred pastime.
But such a reckless lifestyle comes with a price. A gang of thieves assault him and take him far away from his home in Bangkok, Thailand. When Pavel returns to consciousness, he no longer remembers who he is.
Noi is a hardworking young man aged 23 who comes upon Pavel by a twist of fate. He invites the amnesiac Pavel to his home. Pavel and Noi grow close together.
In the meantime, the thieves are still searching for their booty aka Pavel. Will they finally find Pavel?
Elsewhere, Pavel's father is also searching for his missing son. Will he be able to locate his son before the thieves make good their threat?
And what will happen to the budding love between Pavel and Noi?
A van was drifting through the streets of Bangkok. The van then took a sudden turn into an alley and was rushing through it. Saki and his team of five members, including Aat, were in the van.
"We are almost there," said Aat pointing towards the nightclub. The van was quite near to Sukhumvit by then.
"Good! Stop the van at a deserted place," said Saki while looking around the alley. He then glanced at his watch; it was 12:49 am. He continued after a pause, “I hope all of you remember your responsibilities and tasks. No mistakes are permitted. Aat, you will come with me.”
***********
Bangkok!
Thailand's capital. The world knows the Thai capital as Bangkok, but locals refer to their city as Krungthep or 'City of Angels'. You all know Thailand as a land of surprises and beautiful beach resorts, but Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country that the European powers did not or could not colonise. In fact, in the Thai language, the country's name is Prathet Thai, which means "land of the free."
So, why is Bangkok so famous? Thailand's capital city attracts millions of people from all over the globe. It has much to offer in its historical architecture and traditions dating back to hundreds of years. Tourists flock to this place from all over the world.
Bangkok has a bit of everything, from excitement and chaos to freedom, beauty, and adventure. The city is popular for thriving street life, cultural landmarks, and the red-light districts. The Grand Palace and Buddhist temples, including WatArun and Wat Pho stand in contrast to other tourist attractions such as the nightlife scenes of Khaosan Road and Patpong.
There is no denying that Bangkok's sights, attractions, and city life appeal to diverse groups of tourists. They are usually frequenting a variety of tourist attractions mostly, historical, like the temples, royal palaces, with elaborate architecture and arts. Shopping and dining experiences offer a range of choices and prices.
The immensity of the city and its bustling streets can intimidate a novel tourist, but those who spend some time in Bangkok get quickly enamoured by the myriad of attractions.
Pavel Rudra Narayan Dutt, the sole heir of RN Industries, was a lucky brat since he had been born with a silver spoon in his mouth.
Pavel was a young, fair skinned, handsome boy, in his late teens with a bright shiny face and thick textured short fringed hairstyle on the sides, giving him an adorable look. He was stylish, had a perfect body and flawless skin; which made girls drool over him.
He was a first-year engineering student who enjoyed his life to the fullest, with little concern for studies and other curricula. He couldn’t live without parties, drinks and girls. His world consisted of flattering friends, both boys and girls; of them, Jazz was closest to his heart. Pavel relied heavily on Jazz to vent out all his worries and frustrations.
Pavel was a frequent visitor to nightclubs and loved to be in the company of girls. By the tender age of nineteen, he had experienced the pleasures of alcohol and all other vices; he had never been to India and didn't want to go there either. Pavel's father Rudra Narayan enquired about his well-being and studies regularly and reprimanded him with threats to send him to India whenever he was found to be at fault. Pavel enjoys his freedom in Thailand and was often saved by his uncles Ravi and Dileep when Rudra Narayan admonished him. Ravi Narayan was more like a shield, who supported Pavel, whenever the need arised for justification of the activities of the juvenile delinquent.
Pavel found his Uncle Dileep to be nosy at times, presumably because of following Rudra Narayan's instructions, but Pavel managed him cleverly. Pavel's mother was a typical Indian woman, always busy in household activities and prayers. Sometimes, Pavel wondered why his mother was so much into praying when his father had provided enough luxury and comfort for them. Pavel considered uncle Ravi, a gem of a person because he not only looked after his dad's business but also helped him with money whenever there was some need.
It was Pavel's nineteenth birthday and he wanted to celebrate it with his friends at the Glow. Despite its diminutive size, it had risen to be one of the go-to places for underground dance and music parties in Bangkok in the recent years. It housed two levels, and the crowd always had a gala time on the dance floor.
********************
Rudra Narayan was unhappy after hearing that Pavel wanted to celebrate his birthday late into the night with his friends.
"Listen, Pavel, I am not going to tolerate your careless attitude or pay your expenses any more. Either you change yourself or make arrangements for your expenses," growled Rudra Narayan.
"Please, Dad, don’t start all this again. After all, I’m the sole heir to your empire. If I don’t enjoy my life now, when will I get the chance again?" replied Pavel.
"I am not asking for any clarification or justification of your way of looking at life. I am making it clear that you will not get any monetary support from my business if you are not changing your behaviour. Last month, you and your bunch of crazy, useless friends put me into trouble by playing pranks of your kidnapping. Do you remember that?" said Rudra Narayan angrily.
Oh, dad, we were having fun. After all, how else do we celebrate Fool’s day without fooling you? What’s the big deal? You did not fall for it, you didn’t open your pocket at all," said Pavel carelessly.
"Shut up! Listen to me, don’t force me to shift you to some other place with a fixed amount for your monthly expenses," said Rudra Narayan, with a hint of annoyance in his voice.
"No, Dad! You can’t do that. My friends will make fun of me, calling me a Daddy’s boy."
"Well my boy, that brings us to the real question, where are you going now after 10 PM? Don’t tell me you are going out to a late-night party with your friends!"
"Oh, dad! It’s my birthday today; don’t I have that much freedom?"
"You must be back home before 12’O clock, and that’s final. Now go and enjoy, but remember what I have said," Commanded a composed Rudra Narayan.
"Please, dad, only for today extend the time till 2:00 AM. I promise I will not spend the whole night outside ever again." Pleaded Pavel.
"No, you are coming by midnight, else there will be a separate arrangement for you." Snapped back Rudra Narayan.
Pavel left with a heavy face, grumbling in his mind; Dad can never understand me. I have to talk to Uncle Ravi. But this time, I fear that maybe even he cannot convince dad.
********************
Pavel and his friends, Jazz and Park, were soon in the club, drinking and dancing to the blaring music. Two girls were with them, and they were hugging and kissing Pavel.
As the DJ turned the knob and raised his hand at the nightclub, the crowd caught the throb and grooved to its beats. The club was full of people dancing without a care. It was full of Expats, tourists and a few locals. One could spot, a few office-going men at the corner drinking and looking at people dancing. Jazz drank two glasses of alcohol and moved towards a red sofa surrounding a table. Pavel slumped to the couch and began playing with the girls' hair and skin. He was in a drunken stupor and started shouting.
"Hey, you all Fuckers! You always enjoy my money. It's the last time; I will not spend on all of you anymore. My dad is furious and has said that he would throw me out of the house if this continues."
"Don't worry. All the fathers give the same sermon. Let's enjoy tonight. I am also curious to know why your did not uncle come with you today?" asked Bon, a close friend of Pavel, trying to make the conversation a little easy.
"Who? Uncle Dileep…" asked Pavel in a disturbed tone.
"Yaa. He never misses the chance of partying and especially when you are there. I have a hunch that he has a soft corner for you; in fact, I am damn sure about it."
"Yeah. The way he looks at Pavel, I feel he wants to fuck Pavel," Park replied. Park was another of the close friends of Pavel.
"If that is so, I will fuck him too. All of you, get lost and don't spoil my mood," saying so, Pavel threw the glass on the floor.
"By the way, what's your plan tonight, Pavel?" asked Park.
"Nothing special. Planning to go home from here and listen to some more sermons from dad until I fall asleep," replied Pavel.
"I have a plan for all of us. Let's try once more tonight," said, Bon.
"I have no problem until he pays for us," joined Park, pointing towards Pavel.
"You brats! Go fuck yourself somewhere else tonight. I will not spend any more of my money on you. I am leaving," blabbering so, Pavel stepped down from the dancing floor and moved towards the sitting area.
"Wait, wait! You are staggering. Let me take you to your car. How will you drive home?" Bon came forward to hold Pavel.
"Don’t come! I say stop there, you parasite!" Pavel pointed accusingly at Bon.
"I can drive myself home. You don’t know how many times I went from here late at night after the party," yelled Pavel.
"Leave Pavel alone. The more you try to help, the more he will create drama here," said Jazz.
"I know him well; he will not go anywhere. Just wait and watch!" Jazz continued.
"Hey Pavel, shall I buy you one more drink?" he asked.
"Oh, thanks, man, but I don't want anymore. I am leaving for home," replied Pavel.
"Whatever man!"
Jazz took a sip from his drink and moved towards the dancing floor; Bon and Park followed him. Pavel sat on the couch in one corner. The two girls sat near him. Pavel whispered something into the ears of both the girls. They giggled and nodded their heads.
In a dark alley behind the club, the van stopped at the end of the road. Three people got down from the van and scanned the area around.
"No cameras here," said one of them.
"Perfect!" said the other.
One more person was sitting in the van; Saki walked to him.
"Hey kid, it's ok to be scared on your first day. Butterflies in your stomach? Get your ass up here," he said.
Saki gave some instruction to Aat and walked into the bar looking for Pavel. Pavel held one of the girls tightly in his arms and was kissing her lips. As he whispered something in her ear, the girl nodded and smiled.
"Come on…" tugged Pavel.
"Okay…" whispered the girl.
Pavel and the girl moved to the back door. When Pavel and the girl were making out passionately, Saki and one of the kidnappers materialised near him.
"Hey, kid! Can we help you?" spoke Saki, sarcastically.
"Who the fuck are you?" retorted Pavel.
"Yeah! Strong words for a kid like you!" Replied Saki, with a twisted smile lighting up his face.
"Do you know me? Huh!" Spoke Pavel, looking irritated and angry.
Saki slowly walked up to Pavel.
"I know you, and I am here for you," he said, gazing menacingly at Pavel.
"Hey, baby! You better run from here and don't open your mouth, OK!" he said, looking at the girl.
The girl left the place hurriedly out of fear.
"What? Wait! What?" Pavel started shouting as two people came from behind and covered Pavel's face with a mask. Pavel could make out there was one more person who held his legs while Saki punched him in the stomach. Aat quickly drove the van towards them.
"Quick! Quick!" yelled Aat.
"Help," yelled Pavel, "Heellllpppp," he could hardly yell anymore.
Hold his mouth tighter, you asshole!" shouted Saki.
One of the kidnappers held Pavel's face tighter. Pavel tried to free himself but they overpowered him and threw him inside the van. Then they closed the van and took off.
********************
The girl came running back and sat next to Jazz who was busy finishing his drink.
The girl was panting and picked up a bottle with shivering hands and emptied it hastily, spilling all over herself and on the floor. It stunned Jazz, he asked,
"What happened? And where is Pavel?"
"They took him with them," she replied, shivering from top to bottom.
"Who? What are you talking about?" asked Jazz confusion visible on his face.
Bon and Park returned from the dancing floor and heard the girl. The girl narrated what had happened with Pavel, a few minutes ago, behind the club.
"Let's not get involved in it and leave it. We never ventured there and don't know what happened," said Park.
"No, it's not fair. We should inform the police immediately," argued Jazz
"Are you mad? Do you know the consequences?" said Bon agreeing with Park's point of view.
"But…" protested Jazz, weakly.
"No, but. We are leaving, and you are coming with us," said Park and Bon together in unison.
"If not the police, let me inform his parents." pleaded Jazz.
"I am going to do just that. You cannot stop me," he continued with a firm resolve.
"You may be with him for his money, but I am not. If you don't want to get involved, get out! Let me do what I think is right," said Jazz in a fit of anger.
********************
Pavel’s mother, Indrani Dutt, was a simple lady, full of wisdom and strong willpower. She was a family-oriented person who had chosen to devote her entire life to the welfare of her husband and her only son.
She was tall, fair skinned, slim and beautiful. Even after coming and staying in Bangkok for so many years, she loved to wear Indian ethnic dresses with more vibrant colours and she looked gorgeous in them.
She was good at multi-tasking, took good care of her house and carried out other chores diligently ever since she had been married to Rudra Narayan when in her teens. She had always stood like a pillar of strength for her husband in times of difficulty. She was also a multi-talented personality having diverse tastes in music, dance and story-telling. Yet she was easygoing and made her family commitments to be her priority.
“I’m exasperated by the indisciplined and spendthrift kind of life of our son, Pavel,” Rudra Narayan began talking to his wife, over a cup of tea.
“I have decided to send him back to India for his further education. Let him stay with my parents. I believe that under my father’s strict scrutiny he will soon rectify his ways,” he concluded.
"I don't think so, I agree that he has become a wayward kid and is difficult to handle at times, but I believe you and your brother are also at fault for his unruly behaviour. I had warned you earlier not to give him a free hand with monetary extravagance. He should understand the value of hard-earned money, but both of you always ignored my advice," replied Pavel's mother.
"You are right, we failed to put the boundaries for him. But we should do something else. Otherwise, he will never realise the reality of life," said Rudra Narayan.
"In my opinion, sending him to India immediately will not help. Let him complete his graduation here then we can send him to India. If we do something like that, he may become more defiant and take it as an insult or punishment. Moreover, your parents are also very aged; managing Pavel will become a burden and loathsome for them," she replied.
Indrani Dutt took the tray and left for the kitchen when her phone began to ring. She saw it was Jazz calling her.
********************
Jazz immediately came to the point and informed her about the kidnap. Indrani Dutt was shocked to hear about her son's abduction; words failed her, the mobile slipped from her hand and fell to the floor. She immediately picked it up with shivering hands and rushed to her husband. Rudra Narayan understood that the matter was grave and took the phone instantly. He asked Jazz to repeat everything.
At first, Rudra Narayan did not believe Jazz's tale. Jazz tried his best to make Rudra Narayan see reason. He explained that this time, the kidnapping was real, but Rudra Narayan didn't believe it.
“Listen to me Jazz!" he gave a stern warning.
"I’m warning both of you. You will be in big trouble if you harass us this way. Is this an hour to play pranks? Tell him to come home immediately,” Rudra Narayan said in one breath.
“Believe me, Uncle. I’m telling you the truth. Few unknown people kidnapped Pavel from the club as he went out to return home,” Jazz did not disclose the presence of the girls with them.
"How do I believe you? Last time you and Pavel played the same trick with us and your parents, for April Fool. Don’t you remember?" asked Rudra Narayan.
"Yes, Uncle. You are right, but believe me, this time it's no prank. Oh God, what should I do to make you believe me! There is no time to lose. Please do something fast," pleaded Jazz.
"Where are your other friends - Bon and Park?"
"They went home just a few minutes ago."
"Oh, I see, listen, my dear boy, tell your remaining friends to return home as quickly as possible, and you too go home; I will take care of the matter," said Rudra Narayan.
Jazz tried to narrate the whole incident again, but Rudra Narayan consoled Jazz and said that he will take the matter into his hands.
Rudra Narayan then called his brother Ravi Narayan immediately to his room and talked about the incident.
"How come you all are so calm and quiet? Please do something to bring back Pavel," said Indrani sobbing uncontrollably. Rudra Narayan Dutt could never understand the depth of her grief.
********************
The van came to a halt, next to a public telephone. Aat got down from the van when Saki asked him, "Do you remember the lines?"
"Yes, boss," replied Aat.
Meanwhile, Pavel tried to break free from the abductors and got roughed up. One of the kidnappers stamped Pavel's leg ruthlessly, making him scream in pain. Pavel started howling and sobbing.
Saki was visibly angered at the shouting and seemed irritated as he yelled, "You Bastards! Can't you handle a single boy?" He then went near Pavel and whispered in his ear, "Hey baby, keep cool otherwise, there will be another way out. You wouldn't want to know about it I presume."
He then mumbled some instructions to another member of the team, who prepared an injection and shoved it into Pavel. Soon, Pavel fell asleep.
Aat dialled the number and started speaking to the other person.
"You have exactly thirty seconds, do not speak and listen to me carefully, Narayan. We have your son. So be ready with 10 million dollars. We will call you again to tell you the place and time. And if you fucking dare to contact the police… first, we will chop your boy's hands, then his legs, then his sweet little face and deliver it to you."
The line went dead. Rudra Narayan went into a sombre mood. What he had estimated to be a prank had escalated into something very serious.
He narrated everything that the kidnapper told his family members. Indrani Dutt could not come to terms with the reality. Her only son had been kidnapped; she started sobbing uncontrollably and fainted. Rudra Narayan asked Dileep, Indrani's brother, to take care of her.
When Rudra Narayan was perusing through his mobile for contacting the police, Ravi Narayan stopped him reminding him of the kidnapper's words.
"It would be dangerous for Pavel. Don't take such a hasty decision. Let us tackle it the other way,” said Ravi Narayan.
"Let them call again for the place and time, and then we will decide what to do. Meanwhile, I am trying to get access to the telecommunication department so that they can track our calls and find out from where the kidnappers are calling," concluded Ravi Narayan.
Ravi Narayan also doubts this incident may be planned by their business rivals as recently their business got some excellent tenders with massive investments. He assured his brother that he would soon find out and take action. Rudra Narayan agreed to his brother's idea.
Just then, his phone started ringing; with shivering hands, Rudra Narayan proceeds to answer the call,
"Pick up the phone and put the call on loudspeaker," said Ravi Narayan.
Aat waiting for Rudra Narayan to answer the call was livid with anger with the delay by each second.
"Narayan… I see you took too long to take the call. Listen to me, you old hag! Don't be over smart with me, or Pavel's hands and legs will get chopped. The lovely kid got soft skin," said Aat.
"Please, listen to me," pleaded Rudra Narayan.
"Did I allow you to speak? Do you want me to start by chopping his finger?" said Aat.
"No! No! Please, No! I will do whatever you say," said Rudra Narayan.
"That's like a good dad. Now listen to me. I will send you a photograph of Pavel with us as proof. Then you get 10 million dollars in a black bag and don't dare act over smart or it will be the last day for Pavel. Bring the black bag to the city's central park and our guy will collect it from you. And you can have Pavel back. And no cops allowed," snapped Aat.
The call got disconnected, and Rudra Narayan sat down in shock and started breathing heavily. A notification soon arrived on Rudra Narayan's phone. He unlocked his phone and found a link from an unknown number. He tapped to open it and found Pavel's picture with black tape around his mouth.
"Bhaiya (Brother) please do something to save my son...get the police now; I will pay double if needed," pleaded Rudra Narayan to his brother.
"Brother I...I don’t think it will be a good idea to get the police because they have Pavel. They have the upper hand over us. After we get back Pavel, we can take the help of the Police to get them," replied Ravi Narayan.
"Must be the work of our rival Harrison and his master; he is a jealous fucking piece of shit! What do they think of themselves? Just because they could not cope up with us and get the tender on a straight and fare game, they kidnap my son... Let me get Pavel back... I will show him that I am... Rudra...Narayan!"
Rudra Narayan flung the flower vase kept on the table, in a fit of rage.
"What should we do now?" asked Ravi Narayan.
"Get the money. I will go to bring Pavel back," replied Rudra Narayan.
"I don’t think it will be a good idea, you...you may attract the paparazzi. Let me go with the money to the kidnapper."
"Are you sure?" asked Rudra Narayan.
"I believe so..."
"Okay...be careful."
***********
Meanwhile, Ravi Narayan went with the demanded ransom to the venue. When the kidnapper arrived, there was no sign of Pavel. The kidnapper took the amount and told Ravi Narayan that their son would return home soon after they get a safe way out. An hour passed, many hours passed but, there was no sign of Pavel.
Even after two days when Pavel did not return, Rudra Narayan went to the Special Branch Bureau of Royal Thai Police and met the head of the department, Mr Korawat who took the matter seriously, though he said that Rudra Narayan had already wasted a lot of time. Instead of listening to the kidnapper's words, he should have first come to them. Mr. Korawat then called for Mr. Aron and appointed him as the Officer-In-charge for the case. Mr. Aron asked Rudra Narayan about the ransom amount he had given to the kidnapper; he asked Rudra Narayan to provide details about his son, including his friends, relatives, and other sources that may help them in the search process. He also asked whether Rudra Narayan thought of anyone from his known circle who could do this act. At last, the officer assured him that the department would look into the matter seriously, update him with all the information, and ask him for help as and when required.
********************
Pavel did not know how long he had been unconscious. After waking up, he found himself on an iron chair; his hands bound with nylon ropes and a strong taping covered his mouth. His head ached hard and he observed cuts and bruises on the arms and legs. He surveyed the room; it was relatively large but murky, dirty and full of smell. It looked like a storage house. Broken pieces of furniture and trash were littered around. Pavel spotted three men, sitting on some of the good looking chairs. Pavel guessed their age to be around 25 to 30 but was not sure because masks covered their faces. Looking around, he also spotted a bed covered in a dirty bed sheet in a corner.
A tall man got up from the chair and came near Pavel. Pavel gathered that his name was Saki when the rest of the two men addressed him with the name. Pavel tried to speak but the tape prevented him from doing so. He felt his pant and brief being yanked down and thrown away. Pavel shrunk in shame, he tried to get over his embarrassment but could not help it.
All of a sudden, Saki pulled Pavel and threw him on the bed, tied his hands to the legs of the bed. Pavel's head hit the wooden plank of the bed, he tried to kick Saki but missed him. Saki punched him in the stomach.
"If you cooperate with us, we will not harm you. Otherwise, we are helpless. You must get it!" said Saki.
He called a man standing there to bring someone and told the next person to be ready. Pavel could not understand what was going on?
He became numb with fear, thinking they might cut his body parts. He began praying to God in his mind. He even promised to obey his parents in future, if he was rescued safely from there.
Another person walked in, completely naked except for the mask covering his face. Pavel felt that he knew that person but could not place him immediately.
Pavel was horrified as he realised, that the naked man wanted to satiate his sexual desires. Horror struck, and numb with fear, he watched the person abuse him. Pavel tried shouting but the tape muffled his shouts; when the pain of penetration was unbearable, he shouted with all his might tearing the tape on his mouth,
"PLEASE NOOOOOOOO..."
Nobody gave credence to his screams. All the men were enjoying the proceeding and watching with lustful eyes. Pavel felt his inner soul shatter into many pieces, his pride broken; he was helplessly watching and hearing himself wriggle and shout in pain.
When the man was done abusing Pavel, he got up and went away hastily.
"Anyone else wants to enjoy this baby? Aat! Why don't you try your manhood once?" asked Saki.
"Yeah, sure, why not?" replied Aat, lust overpowered him completely.
"Please no, I beg you to stop," shouted Pavel as a final resort.
"We are not here to obey you, Sir. So please shut your fucking mouth, or else we have to put another tape there," answered Aat.
The other two abused Pavel one after the other, except Saki. He was never interested in boys.
"You've bled a lot, cutie boy! Now take a rest. We will come again tomorrow for enjoying ourselves," said Saki.
They all laughed at Pavel's condition and left him there as it is. He was thirsty, wounded, bleeding, and hand-bound to the bed; nobody was there to help him. Pavel never felt so weak earlier in his life.
He was feeling so helpless and nervous that he cried aloud. Suddenly, he felt exhausted and weak, maybe due to the drug they had injected.
***************
The next day the inspector in charge of the case, Mr. Aron came to Rudra Narayan’s mansion with his assistant.
"I am sorry to disturb you early in the morning, but we need to talk to your family members and if possible, Pavel’s friends too. I have sent a team to the nightclub for investigation and interrogation. We hope to find your son soon," said the officer confidently.
Suddenly his mobile began to ring.
"Did you people reach the club? All right. Talk to the manager and other staff members," spoke Mr. Aron into the phone.
"Yes...and I want to check the camera footage and everything. And question all of them and report everything back to me," he finished instructing.
The chief inspector returned to Mr. Rudra Narayan.
“Mr. Naryan, do not worry, we will find your son soon. But first, you have to give me all the details. And one more thing. Do you suspect anyone?”
"I have no idea, but my elder brother, Ravi was saying it might be one of my business rivals. I am not sure. I have done business here for many years, and as far as I know, I have never made rivals who would stoop so low,"
"Yes, that I have come to know about you from my seniors. You are one of the most reputed and respectable people here in the city. May I know how many people are there in your family? Would you please call them? Also, we will talk to your staff working at home and in your organization," said Mr. Aron.
"Sure, why not? I will call them. My wife is not well since yesterday night after hearing about the incident. The doctor has checked her up and given her some sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medicines. But she refused to take anything. She did not even take a sip of water, officer. I hope you can understand her situation," said Rudra Narayan.
Rudra Narayan called his wife, brother and brother-in-law and introduced them to Mr. Aron. Dileep was holding his sister and helped her to sit down on the sofa. Her face was dull, and dark patches encircled her eyes. She had not been able to come into terms with the trauma of her son’s kidnapping.
"We are very sorry about the kidnap of Pavel. We are trying our best. I hope you all will cooperate with us and give as much information as you know about Pavel, his friends and his daily routine.
All of you, please sit down," said the officer addressing them.
"Oh, sure, thank you." Ravi Narayan took his seat next to Rudra Narayan, Dileep sat near his sister.
"First of all, I would like to know about that day’s events in detail from morning till night. Did he attend late-night parties and nightclub events regularly and the club where he went yesterday with his friends, what was the name?"
"Glow," answered Dileep.
"Yes, Glow, does he go there every day?"
"He has a membership of a few elite clubs, Glow is one of them. Yesterday was his 19th birthday, so he went there with his friends to celebrate," answered Dileep.
"Who are his friends? Do you know all of them?"
"I know his college friends, only. Few others we know very well. Jazz is one of them, he is very close to Pavel. Others who went were Bon and Park. I don't know who else was present there yesterday," answered Dileep.
"You are close to his friends, I guess."
"Yes, Officer, a little. I join them sometimes at parties with Pavel," replied Dileep.
"I see, Mr Dutt, I need to talk to his friends; if possible, tell them to come to the office and meet me today," said Mr. Aron turning towards Rudra Narayan Dutt.
"Mr Aron, please find my son. I will help you with everything," Rudra Narayan requested the officer in agony.
"Don’t worry. We will try our best. I hope your son will be back home in a day or two. If we need your cooperation, we will get in touch with you. I have to leave now," he said, looking at his watch.
Meanwhile, Mr. Aron's assistant spoke to the other people and noted everything accordingly then they left the mansion.
*****************
The assistant inspector surveyed the club and noted down the placement of cameras. There were no cameras near the back door of the club. Another policeman was searching the floor for clues.
"I have sent someone to get the footage from the club so that we can begin questioning the people in it," continued the assistant inspector.
"The girl said Pavel was last seen with those guys here," he said.
"And this seems like a perfect place to kidnap, no cameras, it's dark, and people don't come here at all," said the policeman.
"But the street has a CCTV installed, it must have recorded a van leaving the place. I want you to check every footage thoroughly," said the assistant inspector.
"Sure, sir," replied the policeman.
"I am hungry. Want to eat something?" asked the assistant inspector turning casual.
"Your wish, sir. I know a good place nearby," replied the policeman.
Both reached a restaurant nearby and ordered food. The policeman liked to eat his food hot while the inspector tried to cool his hot meal.
"Very high profile case," said the policeman, taking another spoonful of the meal.
"He is one of the richest," said the inspector waiting for his food to cool down a bit.
"Too many enemies?" questioned the policeman taking another mouthful.
The inspector sipped water and began explaining the details of the case while waiting for his food to cool down.
***************
The business of RN Industries was spread across the continent from Vietnam, Thailand in East Asia to the US and Europe. In the early days, Rudra Narayan focused on Computer and IT services and Automobiles, later other things got added on, and the business grew over a decade into a colossal industrial empire. For that, Rudra Narayan had worked hard and tirelessly with a single focus and determination; in this process, he had made some enemies and rivals though he made a few good friends and well-wishers too.
Today, the annual turnover of his industry was not less than US$10.0 billion, and his property across the globe was worth UD$15.0 billion. His nearest competitor was Mr. Somchai, who was somewhat ahead of him in the race. Mr. Emuel Disuza was another competitor hot at the heels of Mr. Rudra Narayan Dutt. All of them make it to the top five business tycoons in Thailand.
Recently, a year ago, Rudra Narayan had opened his new ventures in Real Estate, Gold and diamond Jewelry Business and reaped high profits.
Mr. Somchai was a citizen of Thailand and was in the business for more than two decades. He was a one-man army, unchallengeable in his domain. His ‘The Bangkok Eye’ had multi-national companies in Import and Export, IT Consultancy, Real Estate, Hotels and Resorts and many more. So when Rudra Narayan ventured into the Real Estate business, he did not like that at all. Moreover, he found that Rudra Narayan was much more efficient in his work and clever to use tact wherever needed. And most importantly, his elder brother, Ravi Narayan, was a perfect player in the business world.
Rudra Narayan’s second rival was Mr Emuel Disuza. Though he was from the US, he had settled in Thailand for over fifteen years and had taken dual citizenship in Thailand. His business included Real Estate, Restaurants and Bars, fertilizers, Petroleum and Petrochemicals and Film Production. He knew it very well that unless he surpassed Rudra Narayan in the business his ascent was not possible; for that, he was ready to take any risk. He had two most efficient people in his office, Ms Ruby, General Manager of The Bangkok Eye and Mr Rubel, PA of Mr. Emuel who were the people behind the success of Mr Emuel. Both were Thai citizens with high ambitions.
Ms Promitha, PA and HR of Mr. Rudra Narayan, always warned her boss and tried her best to give good advice, on how to tackle the rivals. Rudra Narayan had to resort to unlawful practices to keep his business afloat and in this regard, his General Manager Mr Kunaith helped him out.
Mr. Kunaith was an over-ambitious person, but Rudra Narayan trusted him blindly. Even Ravi Narayan could not change his brother's blind trust towards Mr. Kunaith.
Today, Rudra Narayan's business would have suffered a huge setback had not Ravi Narayan checked it in time.
Rudra Narayan was drawing a blank. He had never committed these mistakes earlier, but now he cannot focus on the business. Since the last few days, his organisation had lost almost 2/3rd of its tenders and contracts.
His brother, Ravi Narayan was working hard to keep the business running smoothly.
“My dear brother, I suggest you go home and take some rest, give time to Indrani. She needs you more now. We are here to look after everything. Don’t worry, everything will be alright,” Ravi Narayan tried to console his brother.
“How will it be alright? Don’t try to fool me with those stupid words. It’s already four days and no trace of my son. I don’t know whether he is still alive or …”
“Don’t say those harsh words. The Almighty can’t be so merciless on us. After all, we didn’t harm anyone, as far as I know. Have patience.”
“I can’t! Did you see the face of Indrani? I could not bear to look at her starved and pale countenance. What is this business for if we don’t get our son …”
“Believe me! I have full faith in The Almighty. Pavel will return safely. I still think it is our rival’s job; if we send the message loud and clear that we will give a tough fight, they will eventually send back the child," said Ravi Narayan.
***************
It was the fifth day that Pavel had been kidnapped. He had meanwhile been transferred from Bangkok to the Far East near the border area to Cambodia. Every day he was beaten by the kidnappers. They filmed his rape on a few occasions too. He became weak physically and mentally and had lost all hope of escape. He had understood that for the rest of his life he would be in their custody. He was surprised and could not understand why his father had not taken any action? It was hard for Pavel to believe that his father, who was so influential and powerful, could not trace his whereabouts. What might his mother be doing, and his lovable uncles, whom he trusted and believed with his life? Were all of them incapable of tracing these goons? The more he thought about them, the more he got angry at himself and his fate. He realised money was not the most powerful element afterall. Earlier, he assumed that he could achieve everything with money, if so, why couldn’t his rich father trace him? He got tortured almost every day, beaten up frequently, forcefully dragged into sex as and when these bastards needed. He started hating everything about this world and himself.
He lost track of time, slept for most hours when alone. He was always tied to the bed with no clothes on and blood clots were visible on his arms and legs. They served bread with vegetables for lunch and dinner. He had become dull and pale. He decided to forget the past; he understood that if he wanted freedom, he must do something on his own, and not wait for help.
He observed and measured the surroundings. It had been a while since he had seen Saki. Aat and his team members would visit every day. He gathered that all of them were gay or bisexual and were involved in pornography.
Today, only one person was guarding Pavel, nobody else was in sight. The person looked tired and was busy with his mobile. Pavel asked him to untie his hands and let him go to the toilet. Initially, there was no response from the person, but after repeated requests, he untied Pavel and accompanied him to the toilet, which was an adjacent room. Pavel was in pain and was weak because of the wounds inflicted on him regularly.
"Hurry Up!" shouted the person. Once Pavel was finished, he searched around the dark room for something to help him escape. Luckily, he found a blunt object, probably a wooden block. He hid it in his hands and went to the door. As soon as the fellow approached, he tried to hit the person with the wooden block but missed narrowly. The person punched Pavel in the nose with full force, making him fall with a bleeding nose. Luck had not favoured Pavel. He tried one last time to run to freedom towards the open door. Aat hit him on his head with a wooden plank and he remembered repeatedly being punched into the abdomen.
Aat held Pavel and threw him on the bed, and began undressing.
***********
"What have you decided to do with the boy? How long would we be here with him?" asked one of the members of the kidnappers' gang.
"I have a different plan; a party is ready, he is offering a handsome amount for this boy. As soon as the boss gives the green signal, we transport him across the border. Let’s enjoy a few more days with him until that time," replied Aat.
"Don’t forget to tie him tight, be careful this time. Don't listen to him even if he begs for something."
"OK, Boss, as you say."
Immediately Aat’s phone notified arrival of a message.
“Call my other number. After reading this message, destroy this phone and the sim,” read the message on Aat’s mobile.
“What happened? Anything to worry about?” asked one of the gang members.
“Let me talk to the Boss first,” replied Aat and went out of the place; he returned within a few minutes.
“Listen, we have to get rid of him immediately. Finish your work and run away from this place. Let your boys go underground each in a different location. Don't come anywhere near this location for some time," Aat gave instructions hurriedly.
“OK, but is anything very serious? I had disclosed my plans for this kid."
“Stop all your foolish plans and obey my instructions. Do as I say! No mistakes allowed. Mind it,” shouted Aat.
“Alright, Boss.”
Aat took the sim out of his phone and broke it into pieces.
The kidnappers were now warned of getting caught and hence had been advised to go underground. So, they decided to desert the place and destroy all evidence of Pavel in the place. They put gasoline all over the warehouse and set it on fire leaving unconscious Pavel on the bed.
********************
Noi was a twenty-three-year-old, hard-working person living in Bangkok and worked in a small factory to earn his livelihood. He had no family. He was an orphan and an old lady named Sine had brought him up. His adolescence had passed in a Buddhist temple after the death of Sine. He called Sine his grandmother and had beautiful memories about her. Noi did not know anything about his parents and his birth. For him, Sine was everything until her death. When Sine came to know about her illness and did not have many days to live, she donated Noi to a Buddhist temple where he grew up until the age of sixteen, but before she died, she told Noi about his parents whatever she knew. Noi could not finish his education due to the lack of financial assistance, and he had to go to work from the young age of seventeen.
Whenever he got free time from his work, he came back to the village and stayed in the house of Sine with her memories. His neighbours liked him for his behaviour and kindness. He would get involved with the children there, and whenever he came back, he bought something for them and enjoyed the smile on their faces. He was also worried about the welfare of his village and the people, mostly the children. He dreamt of the children being well educated and famous when they grow up. Even though Noi's education had come to a halt at the age of sixteen, he had learned technical skills to earn his bread. He used to save money from whatever he received as his wages. When it had become a considerable amount, he spent it on the well-being of the children. The people of this village were poor; most of them worked in the city for livelihood and in community fields as cultivation workers. Despite being poor, there was harmony and peace in the village. People living there were cooperative, caring, and helpful to each other. In the absence of Noi, his neighbours looked after the house and took care of it.
*************
“Listen, you have to leave this house and never come back. We don’t want you here,” he said, in a harsh tone.
“But, where should I go? I have memories of Grandma and me here,” replied Noi.
“That’s not our headache, you bastard! You have eaten enough free rations from my sister; she is no more, you should stop coming here," he said.
“But Grandma told me that this house belongs to me and...” continued Noi.
“No! Listen, your grand maa is dead and with her, your life of comfort is also gone. Now stop coming here.”
“No, I will not, and if you still insist, I would go to the headman and then to the police. I’m no longer a small child; you cannot harass me as you wish.”
“Ok, we will see to it, that you cannot come here."
Noi observed his life become miserable after his grandmother, Ms. Sine died. From childhood, he saw how his uncle and his family disliked him beyond imagination and never left any opportunity to convince Sine to throw him out of her house. But Sine was a different lady. She took him in her love, care and affection. Only God knew the reason behind her doing so; even after so much pressure from her so-called close relatives, she never let Noi out of her sight. Now Noi is a young working man and earning enough. But he missed his grandmother every day.
What if, God could have added some more years to Sine's life, Noi could have taken care of her now when he was earning. He could never show how good a son he could be for his beloved Grandma. He wished he could cook food for her, give his wages to her and look after her needs. He could not understand why God had been so miserly and merciless.
During his stay in the monastery, he asked the head priest about his miserable life and unlucky fate but could not get a satisfactory answer that justified what had happened with him.
It was the fourth time in a row that they had come and threatened him for no reason. So, he decided to take the matter to the headman of the village and let him decide what was to be done and how he would get rid of his troubles. He worked hard without leisure for a whole week except for two days quarterly. He was back in the village only on those two days, the rest of the week, it remained locked. Often, he faced this uninvited trouble. He knew very well that they could not take any legal action against him; which was why they resorted to threatening and harassment. His neighbours were aware of this, and they always supported Noi in this regard.
But this time, it had crossed all the limits. Noi had just returned from his two-week-long work, and they started threatening him. This time they went ahead and brought a few henchmen with them to make it more intimidating. It was his luck that the headman who was passing by witnessed the henchmen harassing Noi. He gave them a good thrashing and sent them away.
“You don’t be afraid of them. We are all with you, my child,” the headman had assured, giving him confidence.
“I know. Because of all of you, I am safe here," replied Noi.
“I suggest you lodge a police complaint against him. I will also accompany you. And one more thing, it is time you start a family. They have this opportunity only because you have no family. If you marry a girl from this village, then they would not get the courage to go against you and your family,” said the headman.
“But I have no information regarding my parents, Grandma told this to me before her death. Now you tell me who will give his daughter to an orphan with no knowledge of his parents?”
“You are thinking unnecessarily. That’s not an issue at all. Ok, I will talk about your marriage in the next village meeting. But you promise me that you will agree to marry the girl we select for you.”
“Please give me some more time to think,” replied Noi.