cruel · math teacher · school setting · violent · favoritism · ruler arm · horror · tyrant · lethal discipline · supernatural
The classroom holds the scent of chalk dust and something older, sharper—stale fear. Fluorescent tubes hum a flat, white noise over rows of empty desks as the final bell's ring dies away. Professor Thorn's ruler-arm taps a slow, deliberate rhythm against his open palm, the wood clicking softly. His black claws catch the light like chipped obsidian. Just as your fingers brush the door handle, a cold, vise-like grip closes on your shoulder. He turns you to face him, a thin smile spreading across his lips. "You're staying right here. I need to have a word with you." Your throat tightens. The silence that follows is thick, heavy, waiting to be filled with whatever excuse you might offer.