The Dark Path Read Free Page B

loudly. Gen cursed himself for not bringing any rope with him, but he didn't have any in his pack and didn't know where to get any. He would have to improvise. It took time, but he managed to quietly ease the sheet out enough to tie one of Aaron's hands to the headboard. He used his shirt to tie his other hand up. He found Aaron's small clothes on the floor and picked them up in his left hand. He held the cloth close to Aaron's face then quickly slapped the boy, hard across the face. When the boy's eyes opened, Gen shoved the small clothes into the boy's mouth. It wouldn't be the best gag but it would do for now. Aaron tried to yell through the gag but nothing more than a muffled murmur escaped. Gen drew his small knife and held it before Aaron's eyes. He let the moonlight reflect in the well polished blade. Aaron stopped fighting and grew still.
    “You see this?” Gen turned the blade in the moonlight. Aaron nodded his head, his eyes wide.
    “I don't have time for you or your little games. If you mess with me again, I'll cut your throat. Do you understand me?”
    Aaron was frozen with fear. His eyes were locked on the knife.
    “Maybe you didn't hear me. Perhaps I should give you a louder, more permanent message. Gen dragged the tip of the knife down the boy's chest and stopped above his pelvis. “Perhaps I should cut this off so you are always reminded?”
    That got a reaction. Aaron shook his head violently from side to side.
    “Good. Then we have an understanding. Goodnight.” Gen flipped the knife over and jammed the hilt hard into Aaron's head, right behind his jaw. He was out in an instant. Gen removed the gag and untied the boy. He put his shirt back on and felt for Aaron's pulse. It was still strong and his breathing was regular. Gen left the room quietly and walked the grounds. It wasn't safe to sleep in his own room tonight.

 
     
    II
    A loaf between friends
     
     
    Sunshine poured its warming glow down through shimmering leaves to land reluctantly upon a thin boy sleeping up in the branches. Gen awoke to the sound of crying. He didn't move while letting his ears focus in on the sound. Heartfelt sobs came from the other side of the trunk below him. He sighed and slowly climbed down from the branches. Since he wasn't going to get any more sleep, he may as well find out what was wrong. Walking around the trunk, he discovered the source of the annoyance. A boy about his age was leaned up against the tree, his face buried in the crook of his arm. He had tan skin and tightly curled black hair. He wore dirt colored robes that appeared to be torn in a few places and stained with dirt and grass.
    “What's a guy gotta do to find a quiet spot to sleep around here?” Gen broke his silence though he kept his tone light and jovial.
    “I'm s-sorry.” The boy looked up scared and made to run away.
    “Now hold on a moment here. It's rude to wake someone up and not even tell them your name!” Gen put on a smile and tried to look friendly.
    “T-Thomas.” He tried to wipe his face on the inside of his robes but it did no good. His face, now that Gen could see it, was covered with cuts and bruises. One of his eyes was swollen nearly shut.
    “Let me guess. Aaron's work?” Gen spit to the side.
    Thomas nodded. “I don't recognize you. Are you new here?”
    “I arrived here yesterday. Come with me. Let's take care of this.” Gen grabbed Thomas' hand and walked back toward the buildings of the Schola.
    “Take care of what? Who are you?” Thomas just stumbled along after, too confused to do anything else.
    “I'm sorry. How terribly rude of me.” Gen stopped and turned to Thomas, bowing slightly in an odd manner. “Gen Hothman.”
    “Nice to meet you, Gen, but what did you mean you'll take care of this?”
    “I mean Aaron. I think he's had free reign of this school for too long.” Gen's voice sounded cold to Thomas. It didn't seem to fit his young frame. When he met Gen's gaze, his eyes reflected that same cold.