The boys picked up the map and unfolded it curiously. The paper was
yellow and brittle, as if it had lived through a hundred years of secrets.
"This map is more than a century old," Ram whispered in awe. "But…
which city does it belong to?"
Rahul studied it carefully. "I think this is Mumbai. Yes, this must be an old
map of Mumbai. But why is there a red cross marked here?"
Rahul, who had lived in Mumbai since birth, knew almost everything about
the city. He stayed with his joint family, and his confidence made Ram trust
him.
The bell rang, pulling them back into class. But their minds stayed with the
mysterious map.
After school, they decided to meet again at 5 p.m. near the school garden.
Ram arrived on time and waited anxiously for an hour. Finally, Rahul
appeared—carrying two samosas. "Sorry I'm late," Rahul laughed. "I was so hungry I bought samosas. One
for you!"
Ram smiled, accepted it, and together they sat eating, still thinking about
the strange red cross on the map.
Rahul suddenly brightened. "I know this place! The cross is near Juhu
Beach."
Excited, the boys packed a small parcel of kachoris and set off toward the
beach. They searched everywhere, but the map seemed to glow faintly,
leading them toward a sandcastle.
"Why did you break that pretty castle, Have mercy?" Rahul said when Ram
knocked it down.
But Ram had seen something strange beneath it—a box covered in patterns
and strange shapes.
And when they touched it, a chilling glow spilled out. Suddenly, a loud
bang shook the ground—something neither of them could have ever
imagined.