The New Life of Amaya

Chapter 20

Three weeks had passed and I was getting ready for the tests today. Rex and I have searched up and down for a way out of here without being caught. Andreas was not the man I thought he was. I not only have to find a way out of here but also a way to another part of the world. Hopefully, somewhere I can truly start new and be safe. 

A knock sounded at my door and Andreas came in, "Are you ready for the test today?"

"Yes.." I said finishing the ruffling of my dress. 

"Good, shall we get some breakfast and head off now?"

"I'm not really hungry right now. I'm more nervous than anything about this test.."

"You'll do just fine, you were able to catch up fairly well these last few weeks."

"Thank you.." I said with a small smile. "I'll grab my bag and meet you downstairs?" 

Andreas nodded, "I must make a few phone calls before we leave. I'll meet you in the car."

I nodded and waited for him to leave before looking at Rex. Rex, as if he caught the message, went into my closet and grabbed my school bag that I placed an extra change of clothes in. I went to my dresser and dug through my sock drawer to find my money and journal and my favorite book. I placed those along with a pair of sandals and a new leash and collar in my bag. 

"Rex, we must hurry. Did I forget anything?" I asked him.

Rex sniffed around the room before sitting next to me. I suppose I didn't forget anything. Rex and I left the room and went down stairs to the cars where Zhi opened the door and helped me in. As promised Andreas was sitting in the car. Rex climbed in with me and laid down next to the other door. The drive to school was silent as I pretended to study my etiquette's book that he gave me. Once we pulled up Zhi got out and opened the door helping me out with Andreas and Rex in tow behind me. 

"Come, let's head to class" Andreas said guiding me to class where I sat down. 

"Welcome, ladies and gentlemen" Andreas said. "Today, we are going to have a mock feast for the exam. Here in a moment, because I was your teacher and still am, my guard Zhi will come in as if he is me. I will be grading you on your knowledge of what to do and how to do it."

Soon Zhi walked in and we all rose from our seat turning to face him, we bowed then rose again. Zhi nodded and gestured for us to sit and we all began talking amongst ourselves with Zhi as Andreas assessed us from behind. Soon it came to a close and Zhi stood causing us all to stand and bow as he left the room. Andreas took center stage once more.

"Well done! I'll post your grades soon. You are all released to your next class."

Andreas took my hand in his and led me to the Art room where we sat and the teacher set up all of our portraits we turned in last class.

"Today, we are going to unveil each portrait and the King will pick the one he wants hung here in the school."

Once the paintings were unveiled Andreas and the teacher both critiqued them and spoke amongst themselves. Finally they came to a decision and together they brought one of the easels with a painting on it forward. I looked up as they stepped away and breathed a sigh of relief as I saw it wasn't mine. 

"The winner of this contest is Lucas DeLuca." The teacher stated. Andreas didn't look happy.

It didn't matter what he wanted, especially since today was the day I attempt my escape. The teacher excused us allowing the rest of us to take our portraits. I gave mine to Zhi as we made our way to the stables. Andreas remained silent as his anger radiated from him.