The air was still and silent around the Prime Minister's residence.
It was an unusual hour for meetings nearing midnight and the halls of the big estate were eerily still.
Rohan sat in his private study.
The only light came from a solitary desk lamp, casting long shadows across his tired but resolute face.
He tapped his fingers lightly on the polished mahogany table, his mind racing.
There was a discreet knock at the door.
Rohan straightened his back, setting down his glass of water.
"Come in," he said, his voice calm but firm.
The door opened just enough to admit Rao, the head of R&AW, India's intelligence agency.
He entered without a sound, closing the door behind him before stepping into the dim light.
His sharp eyes scanned the room, taking in the Prime Minister's demeanor.
It was rare for Rohan to call a meeting like this alone, without aides, without papers.
