I seemed to be in an unfamiliar place. My mind started racing. From what I deduced, it was the capital's slums in the middle of the night. Suddenly, a boy came running up to me, screaming when he saw me properly.
“I didn’t want my mommy to die,” the boy said. I suddenly recognized the boy, but only barely, because he reminded me of the painting I saw in the castle. This was Johan’s son.
“You didn’t do anything wrong,” I said, “May I ask your name?”
“Davey,” the boy said, but then he whispered, “But it’s Keith. I don’t know why, but I want to trust you, Miss Witch. Don’t tell my father about my whereabouts.”
“I would never,” I said, “How old are you, Davey?”
“I’m going to be eight next month,” Keith said. I was born in September 1753, you see.” That meant it was four years ago.
“Oh,” I said, “I have a mission for you. I want you to escape to the Purdue territory, but until you turn twelve, do not make any movements until December of the year. On the day after the winter solstice, I want you to find the new lord and tell him that his wife Lia sent you.”
“Isn’t his wife named Corina?” Keith asked.
“No, this will be a new lord,” I said, “And I am Lia. I’m a time witch and will save you from your fate, but don’t tell anyone about this meeting or what I said to you.”
“I promise,” Keith said.
“I’m sure your uncle will be very happy to know you survived,” I whispered. Then, I went back through the ripple.
ns 15.158.61.36da2