Silent Ruler [DNF]

Chapter 2: Run!

George sat cross-legged on his bed, skimming through a book about botany when a careful knock stole his attention. In one quick motion, he stood up and swept the books behind him.

"Allowed entrance." He stated formally.

His nerves calmed down when Bad stepped into the room. The glasses-wearing man was dressed in his normal black robe that reached all the way to the floor. Nothing seemed out of the ordinary, except for a backpack that he was holding in his right hand. But George found no reason to question such a small detail.

"Your excellence." His teacher greeted followed by a slow bow. George sighed at the formality. He'd informed Bad multiple times regarding his thoughts about the unnecessary titles, yet it had no effect.

George slumped down on his bed and placed the books in his lap. "Good evening, Bad. I'm yet the read them, but the books are true masterpieces. Thank you!" He exclaimed with a broad smile.

Bad returned the smile, however it didn't escape George's notice that the smile didn't reach his teacher eyes. "I'm glad you like them, sir. These are the only examples that exists."

George furrowed his brows and glanced at the books. Sure, they were wonderfully made. But the kingdom was rich on resources, which meant it couldn't be the reason.

"How come?"

Bad's gazes drifted around the room until they landed on the bag he was holding. "Knowledge is power but also a burden, sir"

George was about to question the cryptic answer when Bad suddenly threw the bag his way. He just barely caught it in time. "Bad, what are you–"

"George." The use of his name awoke an eerie feeling. "Do you trust me?" His teacher's voice was a mere whisper at that point. George barely dared to nod.

Bad let out a relieved breath. "Good. I need you to listen closely. You must leave. Tonight."

George mouth fell agape. The idea sounded too ridicule, but Bad's expression showed no signs that he wasn't serious in his claim. "Bad, what's happening?"

"We don't have time for explanations. You'll just have to trust me. Otherwise, you'll be dead by dawn." Bad paused and locked eyes with George to truly make sure that his words were taken seriously. "There's a map in the bag, amongst the most crucial supplies for surviving in the wilderness." Bad muttered as he headed towards the window.

George rose from the bed. Panic was spreading throughout his body. "I've never set a foot outside this bloody castle. There's no way I could survive out there on my own!" George exclaimed anxiously.

Bad's gaze was filled with sorrow. But it was clear that he wasn't bulging. "You're clever. You'll figure it out." He then proceeded to open the window and reached for something inside his robe and fished out a hook attached to a line.

"There's a harness in the bag. Put it on and I'll help you down."

George glanced wide-eyed at the window. "You must be joking."

Bad swiftly turned his way. "Put on the harness now, there's no time to spare. You're minutes away from getting your throat slit." His teacher's harsh tone caused George to shrug back in surprise. The normally soft-spoken and calm man that he'd known for years was nowhere to be found.

With his left hand, George began searching through the bag until he found what must be what Bad was referring to. Anxiety washed over him like a cold shower at the thought of jumping out from the window. Though he was careful not to let it show.

Bad had already secured the hook in the windowsill. He allowed himself one deep breath before following Bad's order.

His teacher was a versatile person with knowledge reaching further than anyone George had ever met. However, that Bad seemed completely calm and collected in a situation where he was helping the crown prince escape his castle, was somewhat shocking.