10.5 Seconds

10.5 Seconds

Arya

Are you someone who is mesmerized by star gazing every night? Appreciate the beauty of birds soaring in the sky? Or finding joy when waves caress your feet on the beach? When others dismiss these to be disjointed patterns, are you able to decipher a regular pattern in these occurrences? If the answer is yes, then welcome to my club!

I observe these regular patterns not in nature alone. Would you believe me, if I say that I am able to discover patterns even in peak traffic jam on our roads? In fact, in the tranquility of night, I am able to discover patterns in the sound from outer world.

You must be wondering how am I able to do this? This is because of my interest in mathematics. I am able to apply the regular patterns that you usually find in numbers to scenarios in real world too. Mind you, this has gotten me into trouble quite a few times. I went to an exam without preparing for it based on the assumption that I would get the same marks as that of the previous three times I took the exam. But, I failed the exam miserably that time. This taught me a valuable lesson as not to predict my future life with the patterns of my past.

Nevertheless, I am happy that this talent of mine has given me this coveted position.

My name is Arya and I am 45 years old. I am the Chief Designer at Google headquarters in Bengaluru. The project that I am currently working on is very challenging. You can see the stacks of papers sitting on my desk. These are the weather data for the past hundred years from a few important places on Earth. The goal of this project is to decipher a pattern using this historic data, so that we can predict the weather for coming years.

It has been a long struggle that lasted for two years before I could inch closer to success. When I thought I had reached the finish line, a problem showed up. The predictions that I made earlier and that which I know were correct, were now turning out to be incorrect.

I lost all hope. That’s when I chanced to read upon ‘Chaos Theory’. It pointed me as to where I was going wrong.  Once again, I scoured through all the data and found that the cause of all miseries was due to the value of one of the parameter, which was incorrect by 0.01%.

From that moment, I was a big fan of Chaos Theory. I understood the importance of it when applying it to my project, despite the fact that I couldn't wrap my head around the mathematics behind it. May be I would attribute this to my age. With my age comes experience to look at everything from just the surface level and have an overall perspective. But to dive deep into a problem and find the solution you need an enthusiastic and intelligent mind of a young chap.

I wish I know who can help me do this?

I am still searching for one such person.

Nisha

I am Nisha. I am one of the participants of women’s 100 meters running race in this year ’s Olympics being held at Rio.

10.5 seconds. My goal, my ambition, my destiny, my very existence lies in me being able to run within 10.5 seconds. Chasing this unbelievable goal, has literally made me into a robotic machine.

I run with a burning passion to achieve my goal. All I can see are the numbers 10.5.

But do you know that in order to achieve this elusive goal of running within 10.5 seconds I am destructing myself day by day? How many of you are empathetic to my wishes? Does anyone at least bother to know what they are?

When I was a child, I have had a keen interest in mathematics. I had mastered calculus when i was in my fifth grade. I was dreaming of becoming an astronaut one day.

Currently, I am doing my undergraduate studies in Astronomy at Regional Engineering College, Trichy. I was chosen the winner of the 100 meters running race at my college annual sports day by finishing it within 10.5 seconds. I did not know that I had set a new world record.

It was my fate, that Naren happened to see me perform at that sports day. He visited my parents frequently and cajoled them to accept him coaching me.

Look at where I stand now! or rather where I am running now! This entire year has flown by practicing, practicing and even more practicing. It’s been ages since I set foot at my college.

Naren gets furious if I even hold a book. My reward would be running 20 laps at the ground. But this did not stop me from secretly reading my favorite science books. At the moment, I am enjoying reading about Chaos Theory. If only I had the means to study properly about it for 10 years, I am confident that I would win a Nobel prize on the subject. But whats the use of wishing when you know it can never come true?

“This time you have sprinted like a deer to achieve your goal. You have been running within 10.5 seconds continuously for a month. If you continue to keep up the good work, then there is no one stopping you from securing the gold medal at Olympics this year” said Naren.

Naren lifted me like a child and kissed my cheek with joy. That made me return back to Earth from my dreamland.

Naren

No one can experience a pain, worser than the one that failure brings. I am a victim of injustice. What should have rightfully been my victory was sabotaged by a cunning fellow.

In 2012, I won a gold medal for running 100 meters at the Olympics. But two days later it was snatched from my hands. I was shattered beyond belief when the tests showed that I have been using steroids. Later, I found out that this was the act of Vikas, my fellow competitor who sneaked steroids in my food.

I spent the next three years of my life drinking the whole time. I was losing my mind. But I would still visit each and every place to watch running race. That’s when I happen to watch Nisha perform one day at REC, Trichy.

Nisha was standing at the start line, looking thin with a slight hunch on her back. No one would think of her as being fit for an athlete. In fact, they despised her for participating in the running race, unaware of her abilities.

Nisha became an altogether different person when she started running. Her focus was only on sprinting to the finish line and which she did in an unbelievable 10.5 seconds. No one knew that she had set a new world record. The previous world record for 100 meters race was 10.59 seconds, which Nisha had surpassed now. If only Nisha repeated the same performance at Olympics, India would bag a gold medal for sure.

I made up my mind at that moment that Nisha would be the means to achieve my dream. Convincing her college management and her parents was a breeze.

But the problem was changing the mindset of Nisha as she was not aware of her extraordinary talent. I can see her with a book in hand, most of the time. Added to this was the issue that suddenly she would zone out, unaware of what’s happening around her. Like she would enter some dreamland or something. Deep down, I always have this fear of whether she would freeze during any of her major running events.

Right now, she is in one such trance state. She did not realize that i hugged her and lifted her. Only on shaking her shoulders vigorously, did she come back to her surroundings.

Nisha

When I came back to my senses, I realized that Naren was hugging me. He becomes ecstatic and hugs me whenever I perform well i.e up to his expectations.  This is nothing unusual between coaches and athletes. When overwhelmed with emotions, gender becomes insignificant.

Initially I disliked being hugged or kissed by Naren. As days went by, I got used to it. I could feel that his intentions were genuine, devoid of romance or lust. I wonder if I would have liked it if it had been a romantic gesture.

We were calling it a day and walking away from the ground when suddenly Naren bent over my feet. He was fastening my shoe lace which had come off.

“I have told you several times, Nisha. An athlete should not be careless like this. What will happen if you did not notice this on a major event?”

Naren was patiently tying my shoe lace.

I could make out that he was in a pleasant mood. I seized the opportunity and began to speak my mind, although a bit hesitantly.

“Naren, you know that this year I haven't attended any of my classes. My final exams is due next week. I have to be there for sure.”

“You need not worry about these petty matters, Nisha. The minister himself has sorted out this issue with your college vice-chancellor. So, you will pass with distinction. Your focus should be on winning the Olympics alone and nothing else.”

“That doesn't bother me, Naren. You know how much I am involved in my undergraduate studies. Why don’t you agree to me sparing a few hours for my studies too? I am asking this as I have sacrificed enough for you.”

“You have not sacrificed anything for me. The sacrifice you are doing is for our nation. In fact, there is no difference between our soldiers fighting at our borders and you, when it comes to sacrificing your happiness.”

“But, you very well know that after 35 years, I wouldn’t have many opportunities. What will I do with my life once I reach that stage?”

“Just see what happens when you clench the gold medal at Olympics this year. The government will honor you with crores and crores of money. Money will keep raining through brand endorsements. Even after you retire from active sports, you will be in high demand as private organizations will want to employ you.”

“OK then. Let’s make a deal. We will collaborate only till this year Olympics. After that, we will go our separate ways.”

“I wouldn’t commit to that. If you win the gold this time, then people’s expectations will increase too much. Even you may not be able to retire like you wish.”

Nisha hung her head in deep silence.

Naren put his arms across her shoulder and said “Nisha, just don't dwell too much on this. You were not born to do a desk job from 9 to 5. You have such an extraordinary talent. You were born to be a star. I can forsee that many women would be interested to pursue a career in sports, following your footsteps.”

I wanted to argue that I can inspire others by excelling in science too. But I remained silent, not wanting to start an argument.

I could see that Naren was worried. His face was grim. He did not even bid good bye when we reached our hostel.

Naren

My head was splitting with pain when I reached my room. I couldn’t reason with what Nisha spoke today. My deep down fear of things going south was surfacing again.

I was pacing back and forth in my room. Then, having made up my mind I went to Nisha’s hostel.

I started speaking to the watchman of the women’s hostel.

“I want to ask a few questions about a girl named Nisha, residing here.”

“Oh! Are you talking about the girl who is going to run in the Olympics?”

“Yes. You are right! I am here coach.”

“Go ahead, what do you want to know?”

“Does Nisha frequently go outside?”

“No, she has got just one friend here. Sometimes, they both venture out to have food. But, that’s it.”

“The reason that I am asking is because the Olympics is about to start in the next three months. We have to be extra tight on her training regime. So, do not allow her to venture outside this hostel except for training. Just tell her that it is the minister’s orders so that she can’t disobey.”

“I will do as you say. All these are minor things which can help our nation get the gold medal this year.”

“I need you to do one more favour. I would like a set of her room keys too.”

“Obtaining the key would be difficult as it wouldn’t look good on you to enter her room without her presence.”

“I absolutely understand your concern, but as she is a teenager, I want to make sure that she is free of any bad habits. Please get me the keys to her room.”

“Fine then. I will get the keys from warden’s room.”

The guard returned with the keys a few minutes later.

I opened Nisha’s room and went through all her belongings. She had a few books in her suitcase. I took those with me and locked her room as it was. I handed over the keys to the watchman and left her hostel.

As soon as I came to my hostel, I set fire to those books and watched it burn ablaze.

My mind was getting relieved. That night I had a good sound sleep.

Next day I went to the ground with renewed vigor. Nisha used to be waiting for me at the ground every day.

Strangely, she was not there. I waited for her for a long time. But there was no signs of Nisha.

Nisha

I saw my picture on the front page of the newspaper lying in my room.  It was a cover story on the athletes participating in Olympics on behalf of India that year.

The storm that was brewing in my mind was clearing a bit. I began to realize the responsibility on my shoulder, of fulfilling an entire nation’s expectations.

There was a strong urge to speak to Naren. But, my friend Sunita asked me to join her for dinner.

Returning to my room after dinner, I deduced that someone had been inside my room by the displacement of my suitcase. I was shocked to see my books stolen, on opening the suitcase.

On enquiring the neighboring room mates, I came to know that Naren had come to my room.

I marched towards Naren’s hostel with full rage. As I was speaking to the watchman to let me in, a burnt paper hit my legs. I followed the trail to where the pages were coming from. I was further enraged to see that all my books were burnt to ashes.

Did Naren stoop this low to prevent me from studying? I went to my room and cried behind locked doors. I had made up my mind on the next set of actions that I would take.

I rang Vinod who is my classmate in Trichy. He used to pursue me even though I was not interested in him a bit. He preferred girls with brain over those with beauty.

“Vinod, I need you to do something for me now. Please book a train ticket for me in the train leaving from Delhi tonight to Chennai and if possible a ticket for Chennai to Trichy.”

“So what do I get in return for this help? Will you love me?”

“We will discuss this later. But I can promise you that I won’t forget the help that you are going to perform.”

“Then I need you to kiss me. Once over the phone and the other one when we meet next time.”

I agreed as it was just a kiss.

Within a few minutes, I received my ticket details as a text message. I packed my stuff and went to the front gate. Suddenly, I had an idea and came back to borrow burqha from my friend Nasleen.  Wearing the burqha, I managed to step out of the hostel without anybody noticing me.

I hired an auto rickshaw to the train station. Finally, the taste of freedom was sweet.

Naren

It was frustrating to wait for Nisha after a few hours had passed. I went to her hostel and got her room keys from the watchman. I was in for a shock, when I opened her room and found it to be empty. I tried calling her mobile, but there was no answer.

I began to think about her whereabouts. I enquired many people in her hostel but no one knew where she was. I was getting infuriated with her absence now.

Suddenly it crossed his mind, that Nisha might have left to Trichy. I concluded that it was the only viable option.

I thought of going to Trichy but instead met with the Olympics co-ordinator/director Ganesh Ram and explained the situation. His face turned red with anger.

“How can you behave so foolishly? What did you achieve by burning her books?” he scolded Naren.

“I thought she would concentrate on her running instead of wasting time on books.”

“She must be infuriated with your behavior, that’s why she is missing now.”

“Shall I go to Trichy immediately and talk to her?”

“No. I will handle this sternly. I am going to send out a warning letter. She should be afraid of the consequences and will come to Delhi at once.”

The director explained his plan. Naren thought it was good enough and left his room.

Nisha

I was feeling exhausted after being in two trains to reach home. Everyone was pleasantly surprised on my arrival. I had not informed them earlier of my arrival as I did not want them to be anxious of my return.

After exchanging pleasantries, followed by a grand feast, they questioned why I had come to Trichy. My dad was persistent in his questioning.

“Nisha, you had promised us that you would visit us only after winning in the Olympics. So only we had booked tickets to Delhi to visit you next month. Though it is good to see you now, is there a reason for your sudden visit? Is something bothering you?”

“I am not going to run hereafter, dad.”

“What are you talking about? The entire country is expecting you to win a medal. Last week, people from ‘The Hindu’ newspaper were here for an interview. We mentioned that we would be super proud of you if you win. And now you are talking about quitting the race?”

“I wish to study dad. I want to become a successful scientist. I don't have interest in sports or running. Above all, my coach Naren is causing me so much distress.”

“You can continue your studies after winning the gold this time.”

“I fear it won't happen, dad. I am 100% confident of winning a medal. The question is whether it is a gold or silver one. I fear of becoming a slave to the money and fame that comes after winning the title. I am worried that it might disrupt my confidence that I can continue with my studies.”

“Assuming that you are becoming a scientist later, what are you going to do if you turn out to be like just another ordinary scientist? When you know that you are naturally blessed with talent in sports, why do you brood over unnecessary thoughts?”

“I don’t know if I will be yet another scientist or will turn out to be a hugely successful one. But one thing I know for sure is that I will be a happy soul. I will enjoy each and every moment I work as a scientist. And at this point, this is exactly what I need.”

“Let me cite my life itself as an example. I dreamt of becoming an architect from a very young age. But, now I am famous lawyer because I listened to what your grandfather said. Now, I am one of India’s reputed lawyers. I earn handsomely and live a happy, satisfied life with my family.”

“You are not 100% happy with your life, dad. I know that pretty well. Even now, you spend a lot of time reading articles on Architecture rather than law matters. You are in your own universe when you admire the beauty of an interesting building.”

“I would say that has worked to my advantage only. If I had chosen architecture as my field, I would be too engrossed in it that I would start neglecting my family. My profession would instead turn out to be a burden.”

“I wouldn't refute the fact that you are spending lot of time with us. But that doesn't mean it is quality time. If only you had been in architecture field, even the less time that you spend with us would have been of better quality.”

“Now, lets get back to you. What are you planning to do next?”

“I am going to issue a press release stating that I am going to quit running.”

“Are you prepared to face the wrath of people? The government may try to pressurize you into doing this.”

“I am determined to handle what ever brick bats come my way. Even if it means approaching the court. Don't worry about it.”

Dad was not convinced with my answer. Knowing that I was adamant about my decision, with a sad face he left to the drawing room to watch television. Meanwhile, I started making calls to reporters.

The next day I went with dad to Chennai. We had arranged a press meet that evening at the hotel where we were staying.

At the press meet, I informed every one of my decision to quit running at the Olympics. This caused commotion as expected. The reporters asked me difficult questions.

 “Have you not realized that you have let down the people of India?” asked a reporter.

“From which newspaper are you coming from Sir?” I asked him.

He said the name of his employer.

“I recall that you published an article last week about how athletes in China are being tortured in the name of training for the Olympics. How their government is putting them to grueling training sessions irrespective of the athlete’s own desires?”

“Yes, that’s correct. I had written that article.”

“Can you please tell me how my situation is any different from that? The Indian government is not bothered about my wishes. They just want me to participate at the Olympics. And we say India is a democratic country. Or do we have autocratic regime here too?”

“Do you know how much money has been spent on training you? Are you not bothered about wasting it?” asked another reporter.

“Sir, I know that you are my college mate Rahul’s father. He was my senior at college. May I know what is he doing now?”

“This is not relevant here. Anyway, he is working for Microsoft in America.”

“Do you know the subsidies that Rahul got when he studied at REC? If this was not provided by the Indian government, he would not have finished his studies. He is currently using his knowledge to enrich American economy instead of being here in India. I think you should worry about this instead.”

“You are a traitor” shouted another reporter.

“If you have this much loyalty to your country, then you should be at one of our borders fighting for our nation. Don’t bother yelling at a simple girl like me.”

The reporters in the room were buzzing with rage.

“I wish to drive home the fact that I am not a traitor. I promise that I will bring glory to India by winning the Nobel prize by doing research on Chaos theory.”

As expected, what I said fell on deaf ears. My dad escorted me out of the room as he felt the situation was turning worse.

As we were approaching our room, a middle aged woman stopped me and enquired.

“Are you Nisha? You are the girl who was supposed to participate in the Olympics, right?”

I said yes.

Totally out of the blue, she hit me and walked away.

I was stunned and couldn't control my tears.

“Am I such a disgrace to India?” I asked my dad as he embraced me and led me to our room.

I was in for a bigger shock when I reached Trichy.

My mother handed me a letter from the Sports department. They had issued me a fine of Rupees 50 lakhs as I had quit from the Olympics.

I was shell shocked on reading that. But dad was not upset at all.

“This letter will not hold the case if we approach the court. I will be your lawyer and fight your case against the government. Don’t worry” dad reassured me.

But we made a plan to visit the Sports director in person at Delhi.

Arya

The amount of time I spend on entertainment is quite small. Most of my time out of office is spent reading books on science. But I do have a daily habit of watching the late night news. Today’s news was rather amusing as I was watching the interview of Nisha, a participant from India for the Olympics. Usually, people who excel in sports, earn some degree for the sake of a job. But her case was rather unusual in that she was interested in academics though she was naturally bright in sports.

I liked the way she tackled all the questions thrown her way, however difficult they were.

Her ending note surprised me beyond my wits as she said she would win the Nobel prize for her work on Chaos theory.

I am pretty sure no one would have noticed that she uttered this except me.

I made up my mind, that she would be the assistant, that I was searching for so long.

Naren

I was watching Nisha’s press meet along with Ganesh Ram at his office.

“I had underestimated this girl. She is very courageous for taking such a stand” quipped Ganesh Ram.

“Sir, do you believe the warning letter will change her mind?”

“To be honest with you, the letter that I sent her is against law.”

“She had mentioned that her father is a lawyer.”

“You should have brought this to my notice earlier. I would have dealt with this differently. I have to do something to make the public hate her. Make sure all press reporters write the same story that I am about to give them” ordered Ganesh Ram.

“I don’t think she will pay heed to all this. Can we do something to stop her from pursuing her studies at her college?”

“I doubt that. As her father is a lawyer, he might take us to court if we obstruct her studies. The only trump card that we have right now, is the press. We have to channel them effectively.”

I listened intently to Ganesh Ram’s plan and left his room.

Nisha

I had not met Ganesh Ram before this encounter. But I have heard people praise his administration skills. In the one or two occasions that I had to talk to him, I could figure out that he possessed the intelligence and skills required to do his job efficiently.

“If you were not interested in sports, you could have told me earlier on. Why did you wait till the eleventh hour to cause such problems?” asked Ganesh Ram to Nisha.

“Naren is the reason why I took this decision now” said Nisha.

“I can substitute Naren and bring in another coach, if you want.”

“No, that would not be useful as we are short of time to know each other’s strength and weakness to win at the Olympics. Besides that, I was at two minds whether I wanted to continue studying or want to win a gold medal for running. Only now I am sure of what I want to do. I am able to forsee that my future lies in science rather than sports.”

“If you have made up your mind, then you will have to pay the penalty as stated in the letter that I sent you.”

Nisha’s dad interfered and said “ Nisha did not sign any contract that has her binding to your rules. Hence, the letter you sent is invalid by all means.”

“People everywhere are hating you. You know that they are calling you a traitor.”

“I am confident that I will be hugely successful in my career as a scientist. I will solve some of the mysteries of mankind. The future generations of mankind will benefit from my research. If I win a gold medal at the Olympics, it will make only the citizens of India happy. But, my achievement in the scientific field is going to help generations after generations of people all over the world. So, it is up to you to decide which one is more important?”

Nisha’s father said, “Please consider Nisha to be your daughter, sir and help her. Please resolve this issue amicably.”

Ganesh Ram was in deep thought for a while.

“I know you are your college topper. I trust you when you say you can achieve your goal in scientific field. I leave it to you to decide which course of life you want to follow. But I have just one last bit of advice. Do not oscillate between the two decisions. Take your time to decide which one you want to follow. But once you have reached a decision, do not back off at any point. All the best for your future endeavors.”

I and dad heaved a sigh of relief as we left Ganesh Ram’s office.

Two months passed. My life was flying past like a beautiful butterfly. I completed my degree successfully, that too as a college topper. Many companies offered me a job. But those jobs did not interest me.

That was when I met Arya. He came to meet me at my house. He introduced himself and talked about his project. I was thrilled when he offered the position of being his assistant.

We travelled to Delhi the very next day. The first two weeks were spent in training. After I completed my training I met Arya at his office.

“Do you know why I chose you for this role, Nisha? I was taken aback when you mentioned about Chaos theory in the press meet earlier. There are not many colleges which offer such courses and not much research is being conducted on this topic. In fact, students prefer mathematics over science. The reason I selected you for this role, is because of your enthusiasm over the subject. Add to that, you have the determination and grit required to finish the research, being an athlete yourself. These are the qualities that will help you in this project.”

Arya paused talking and observed me. I was listening intently to every word he said. He continued.

“Do you know about butterfly effect?”

“Yes, I do. The flapping of a butterfly at some part of the world may cause a major earthquake somewhere else. This is to signify that small causes can have larger effects.”

“You’re right. Most of the people know this as they might have seen this in many Hollywood movies. But Chaos theory is much more than this. You would be stunned to see how deep it affects your life. Many problems that cannot be predicted using ordinary scientific principles can be solved by applying Chaos theory.”

“I know. For example, the day to day weather conditions may appear irregular. But there is a regular pattern to it. We can predict the weather conditions of the future based on the historic data that is available to us.”

“Yes. That is the aim of our project. We have historic weather data from several hundred years in our database. We can predict the weather conditions for the next ten years based on this data. You can start working on this assignment from today.”

As I walked out of Arya’s room I was feeling excited with the new assignment.

Arya

In my long career, I have worked with many different kinds of people. Each of them have unique abilities. But people can be broadly classified into three types.

1.    People who try to solve problems going on a single track but ask for help if they hit a road block.

2.    People who try different methods to solve a problem.

3.    People who brainstorm various solutions before choosing the best solution to solve a problem.

Nisha obviously belonged to the third category. She is immensely talented. What takes others five days to solve an issue might be a one day job for her.

I meet her every evening where we have a healthy conversation about things other than work such as history, politics and philosophy. She would listen with wonder as these topics are relatively new to her, considering her age and limited experience.

One such evening as I was walking to my car, I saw Naren in the parking lot. He looked tired from drinking for days together. He looked like he was mentally disturbed.

He ran towards me and fell at my feet.

“Please give my Nisha back to me, sir. She has lots to achieve. Her destiny is to accumulate medals.  Do not waste her talent by making her do clerical job. Please persuade her to come back to me, sir.”

Later, I came to know that he was Nisha’s coach. I took him to a nearby hotel and ordered food for us.

I then asked him. “Do you love Nisha?”

“Do I love her? No. She is just my means to achieve my dream.”

“Then it is wise that you forget her. Her aim in life is different. Do not impose your dreams on her.”

“No, it is God’s blessing that Nisha has the extraordinary power to run. If we do not put that to proper use then it would be like betraying God.”

“God has bestowed Nisha with many such talents. She is good not only in running, but has an extra ordinary brain power too. And mind you she is not doing some clerical job as you think. She is solving complex puzzles that couldn't be solved by the greatest scientists on Earth. This requires a brilliant mind, not found in most of us, human beings. She will definitely win the Nobel prize in the next ten years. It would do her good, if you stay away from her.”

Out of rage, Naren caught hold of my shirt.

“I am a born sportsman. I have better endurance than you. Let’s see whose ambitions are fulfilled.”

I pulled out a photograph and pointed at a person.

“Do you recognize him, Naren? He is the Chief of Delhi police and also my best friend. I can make one call and you will be in prison the next moment. Now get out of here.”

As he released his hold and walked away, the  disappointed look on his face, stirred something within me.

Nisha

We live most of our lives disinterestedly, due to the mechanical chores that we have to do every single day. But the high, the happiness that one gets when we achieve something in the field that we are passionate about is quite something else.

I am in such a blissful state now. I made a startling discovery in the assignment which was given to me. I wanted to shout “EUREKA!” from the top of my lungs. I rushed to Arya’s room but he was busy in a discussion with someone.

I popped my head inside his room. Arya would be busy most of the time and wouldn't have time to discuss things with junior employees like me. Irritation shown on his face as I had not knocked on his door before entering.

“See me after an hour. I am busy right now.”

“I need to talk to you right now, as it is an important matter.”

“What ever, it can wait, Nisha.”

I did not listen to him and went on. “The weather we are experiencing each day is similar to the weather conditions that happened several years ago. This is not just co-incidence. I have discovered a pattern in this.”

“Keep going, Nisha.”

“Let’s look at an example. Assuming the temperature today is 30 degrees. Based on the formula that I have discovered, it repeats itself after every 880 days, forever.”

“How did you arrive at the figure of 880 days? Is it a constant?”

“It varies. Based on the formula, I figured that the similarity in weather conditions repeats after 880 days for five times. After that it repeats every 1760 days for ten times. Then it repeats every 3520 days afterwards. This is a repetitive pattern.”

There was a look of astonishment on Arya’s face.

“How did you figure this out, Nisha?”

“I solved this by applying Chaos theory. You might have heard about the concept of ‘Period Doubling’ in which certain events occur repetitively. Period doubling helps to estimate when the repetition occurs. In the example that I citied, you can very well see a pattern in the number of days i.e 880, 1760 and 3520.”

“So will this pattern double forever till infinity?”

“No. This will not keep happening forever. After a while, this pattern will be broken. We will be in a state where we cannot predict the weather. Then chaos rules. In fact, that day is not very far.”

“True. This is global warming.” Arya sighed.

Arya came and patted me.

“This has been a memorable day for both of us. Go home and celebrate. Tomorrow we will announce your discovery to the entire world.”

I noticed Arya was hestitant to say something else. I stood by the door.

“Nisha, I saw Naren today. And I fear he would cause trouble. Better stay in our guest house so that you are safe.”

I was crestfallen on hearing that.

“Nisha, do not let Naren ruin your happy moment. Just concentrate on the job at hand and leave the rest to me.”

I left Arya’s room feeling confused.

Naren

I am not a heavy drinker. Earlier I used to be a social drinker. But ever since I lost my gold medal at Olympics, I started drinking to bury my sorrow. I stopped drinking once I started coaching Nisha. But fate is that because of the very same girl I have started drinking again.

My heart was heavy after Arya humiliated me today. I was running out of options to do something.

I tried to visit Nisha at her guest house and was denied entry.

How would Nisha react if she knows I am dead? Will she feel guilty? Will that make her run again?

I made up my mind and wrote a letter hastily. Then looked at the poison in my hand for a few seconds. I gulped it. Everything went black.

Nisha

I was in a project meeting with Arya, when I received Naren’s letter. I was shocked to see that he had attempted suicide and was asking me to pursue running as his last wish.

I panicked and showed the letter to Arya immediately. He checked the news on his mobile and confirmed that Naren had attempted suicide and is now battling for his life.

We left to the hospital in which Naren was admitted and saw him.

Naren held Arya’s hands feebly and could make out only this before losing consciousness. “Sir, please allow Nisha to run for Olympics one last time.”

The doctors reassured us that he was not in a critical stage now. We were on our way back to office when Arya broke the heavy silence between us saying “Nisha, I feel it will be good if you to run at the Olympics. Naren is asking you to do this for the last time. It will require just two months of your time. I can easily arrange your leave in office, because of your hard work at the project. I think it’s the right time for you to participate at the Olympics and win a medal for India. At least for the sake of Naren and billions of people who have high hopes for you. What do you think?”

“I am totally disinterested in running again, Arya”

“You are not participating for yourself. You are representing the dream of an entire nation.”

I was pondering over his statement and agreed.

“Good. I will arrange the paper work for your leave from office. Naren will be better in a week. You should go to Delhi with him.”

I was once again surprised with Arya’s magnanimity.

Naren

I should have thanked Arya for convincing Nisha to start running again. Instead, I was hating him because he thinks I am at his mercy. Even Nisha came back, not for running but only to respect Arya’s wishes.

I recovered within two weeks and started Nisha’s training. Contrary to what I thought, Nisha still was able to achieve her goal of 10.5 seconds even though she had not practiced in months. I could see that her focus and involvement in running had increased.

We continued practicing for a week in which she hit her target 10.5 seconds every day.

The Olympics will start in the next five weeks. I was fully confident that she would secure the gold.

Nisha and I went to a restaurant to have dinner. We were friendly by now. I was in a good mood as she was excelling in her performance.

But my happiness did not last long. The following week Nisha finished in 12 seconds. I disregarded that as it was just that one day.

The next day Nisha was back on her target of 10.5 seconds. The following day she finished in 11.5 seconds. The day after she finished in 10.5 seconds.

The next week her performance had declined drastically. She achieved her goal of 10.5 just once.

I couldn't think of what went wrong as she was just the same. In fact, she was mindful of her running now more than ever.

This is the last week we will be training in Delhi. The coming Sunday we have to travel to Rio where the Olympics are happening. Much to my disappointment, she did not finish within 10.5 seconds, not even once this week.

On the last day, she took 12 seconds to complete.

I was so angry that I slapped her. Nisha left the ground crying.

Immediately I realized my foolish act. I shouldn't have slapped her that too when we were leaving to Rio tonight. I wanted to apologize and called her. As expected she did not pick up. Not wasting time, I went to her hostel room. She was not there.

I could sense the fear deep down in me. I enquired Nisha’s father about her whereabouts. He did not have a clue.

As it was time for our flight, I packed my stuff and left to the airport. My eyes scanned all over the airport.

As I approached the gate after collecting my boarding pass, I could see Nisha standing. My joy knew no bounds, when I saw her. I wanted to hug her and started to run towards her.

When I went closer, I was dejected to see that she was standing with Arya.

Nisha

To be honest, I was not angry with Naren. I was angry with myself for rising Naren’s hopes but not able to fulfill them.

I was perplexed as to what caused things to go south. I was more enthusiastic about running now. In fact, I was obsessed with winning this time. Nor did I have any fear. Then why am I not able to achieve the expected result?

I fled the ground and came to the solace of my favorite Ram temple near the ground. I was crying in front of the altar. Then I called Arya.

He said that he was in Delhi and was coming to Rio to see the Olympics game.

I explained the events of the day. Arya said he would meet me in an hour.

“Nisha, are you again facing a dilemma of whether to continue in sports or science?” Arya asked concerned.

“No, the zeal to win the gold medal is burning inside me. But I don't know why my performance has declined drastically?”

“When is your flight to Rio?”

“I am not going to Rio. I don't want to see Naren upset if I do not win the gold medal. It is best that I don't participate at all.”

 “Don’t lose your hopes Nisha. You will get extra ordinary strength to perform at the finals which will help you achieve your goal. You have to go to Rio, for sure.”

I looked at him with hesitation.

“Believe that you can do it, Nisha. And definitely you will.”

We went to my room and took my stuff and left for the airport. I saw Naren there. He was happy on seeing me but couldn't be happy for long when he saw that I had come with Arya.

Arya shook hands with Naren. “Naren, you have to control your anger till the Olympics are over. Take good care of Nisha. All the best! I will see you in Rio tomorrow.”

I had not uttered a single word to Naren on the entire flight journey.

I was the flag bearer for India at the commencement ceremony. I was not sure whether I was worthy of such a great honor, considering my poor performance lately.

My running race was to start in the next five days. Arya came to watch me perform at the training every day. Still the magic number of 10.5 seconds remained elusive to me.

Even Arya was feeling disappointed. While Naren had completely lost all hopes that I would win the gold.

Arya was collecting some information about my run from Naren.

The pre-qualifiers were easy to tackle. My run time was between 11 and 12 seconds. I finished in the fifth place.

Tomorrow is the D-day. Naren had asked me to come to practice one last time before that. Arya knocked on my room hastily.

“Nisha, you should not go to training today, if you want to win the gold tomorrow.”

I looked at Arya with confusion written all over my face.

“Yesterday I collected the statistics of your run time for the last two months.”

“The first week you finished within 10.5 seconds on all days. The second week you ran in 10.5 seconds just once. The third week, you were able to complete within 10.5 seconds once every two days. The fourth week you were able to repeat this once every four days. Do you follow what I am saying?”

“What are you trying to explain?”

“This is chaos theory’s period doubling concept happening with your run. I can see a repetitive pattern in your run.”

I looked at Arya stunned by his discovery.

“So, based on this pattern, the next time you run, you will hit your goal of 10.5 seconds. At any cost, do not go to practice today. The gold will be yours tomorrow at the finals.”

Arya’s words hit me with such a massive force.

“But Naren will kill me if I don't practice today.”

“Come on, let’s get out go here. Do not answer his calls. Tomorrow we will come directly to the venue of your finals.”

As we were taking a taxi, Naren saw us and started following us.

He kept following us for a long time.

I said “Arya, please stop the taxi. I want to talk to Naren.”

Though Arya did not like the idea, he asked the driver to stop the taxi.

Naren marched towards our taxi and hit Arya.

“Quit acting like you are doing me some good. You are betraying me at the eleventh hour by sabotaging my plan of making Nisha run at the finals.” He shouted at Arya.

“Naren, you have mistaken our intentions. We are doing this for our own good. Please do not force me to run today. I promise that I will win the gold tomorrow at the finals.” Nisha said.

Naren slapped me.

“You are running today and if you do not complete within 10.5 seconds then I am not letting you run tomorrow at the finals” yelled Naren.

Naren did not listen to Arya when he tried to explain his findings. He grabbed my hand and put me in the taxi. We went straight to the ground.

Naren had some bottle in his hand.

“I don’t care what you do Nisha. But this time you have to complete within 10.5 seconds. If you don't then I will commit suicide here by drinking this poison” he pointed to the bottle in his hand.

“Naren, please listen to what I have to say. If I run today then I will not win tomorrow. I have solid proof for that based on scientific principles. You have to trust me.”

“Based on principles, is it? Let me explain this to you in my own terms. Imagine yourself to be a deer when you run. Now, imagine you are being hunted down by a cheetah. Your life now depends on how fast you can run away. Now, go run and show me your best performance.”

“I beg you Naren. Don't force me to run today.”

Naren opened the bottle.

“Naren, don’t do anything foolish. I will run as per your wish.”

“It’s not enough that you run, but you should achieve your goal of 10.5 seconds. Otherwise, I would still go ahead with my suicide.”

I ran with a renewed zeal to win. It took me exactly 10.5 seconds to finish.

Naren looked at me condescendingly. “What happened to your scientific principles? Did I not say that you can do it. Do not argue with me over what you can achieve. Just imagine yourself to be an animal who is trying to save your life from being hunted. Success should be yours easily. Now, go to your room and take rest. Do not let your mind waver.”

Arya had reached the grounds by then. He guessed that I ran within 10.5 seconds in the practice run and did not utter a word.

I went to my room exhausted. I couldn't sleep one bit that night.

“You are an animal fighting to save your life” Naren’s words were on a loop in my mind the entire night.

The next day my mindset had changed. There was no question of whether I can achieve it or not. Whether I had the confidence or not. The only thing I could think of was that I was a deer being preyed upon. I have to keep running as fast as I can to live. I would say at this point in life I had become that deer itself.

The finals started. I was astonished to see the huge crowd around me. People were waving their respective country’s flags excitedly. 

Naren closed his eyes, unable to even watch the race as he was too keyed up with excitement. Arya was intently watching me.

I sprinted as soon as I heard the gun being triggered. Everything, including the participants running with me were blurred. All I could see was the finish line.

As soon I crossed the finish line, I was awakened from my trance. The other participants were congratulating me. I had finished first. I heard someone say that I finished it in 10.25 seconds. The audience were cheering me, chanting my name.

When I reached the dressing room I saw that Naren and Arya were waiting for me.

Arya embraced me warmly.

“How did science fail, Arya?”

“Science never fails, Nisha. We can predict tomorrow’s weather using science and mathematics. We can talk about the position of planets. But we cannot predict the future of mankind. This is something beyond the rationales of scientific principles and the powers with which God created us. Man does unbelievable things in extraordinary situations. He breaks all those rules that bind him. This is what is described as free will. Today science was not defeated. It is the other way round. Man has won.”

Streaks of tear were seen from Naren’s eyes. I wiped those tears away.

“Do you know how I won? I did not visualize myself as a deer sprinting towards the finish line. On the contrary, I felt like you were the cheetah chasing me.”

I put my medal on Naren’s neck. He did not stop me from doing so. He hugged me tight.

“Go away, Nisha. Run as fast as you can. I hope we don't cross paths ever again.”

I smiled as I gave him a long kiss. That was the last time I am going to see him.

From this moment, I am going to live my life the way I wanted to. For no one else, other than myself and my dreams.

At last, I am at peace.

The End

Inspiration

Non Fiction - Chaos - James Gleick

Fiction - Pathu second mutham - Sujatha