Saving Damsel in Distress (2)

Noah's heart thudded as he sat still, bound beside Amelia. His mind raced, calculating every possible move and outcome. He flexed his wrists, testing the tightness of the ropes as his new "Basic Soldier-King Skill" flowed through him, giving him advanced combat knowledge that felt engraved in his bones.

Glancing at Amelia, Noah caught her eye and subtly moved his fingers in a series of quick, deliberate gestures—a form of sign language.

It wasn't perfect, but he hoped Amelia, who seemed refined and educated would understand. To his relief, she gave the faintest of nods, careful not to alert their captors. A quiet exhale escaped Noah. She understood.

Now it was time to act.