Chapter Text
Time manipulation has long been taboo for sorcerers and wizards. Time was too fragile, too unpredictable to be played with at one’s will. Too many risks. Too many unforeseen consequences.
It was inevitable that in never-ending time loops, these consequences would materialize.
Emily rubbed her eyes, blinked several times, and even pinched herself. After confirming that she was indeed awake and not seeing things, she couldn’t take her eyes away from the small bundle resting on the ‘Mad Dog` Eckart`s bed instead of said Eckart. Several cautious steps forward and she had a clearer view of the tiny human. A small pale face, chubby cheeks with a rosy tint, and vivid fuchsia hair. Emily was at a complete lost at what to do. She became slightly alarmed when the baby began to weakly wiggle. Seconds later, eyes opened to reveal a bright turquoise. The maid’s gasp was quickly followed by a baby’s wail.
“Your Grace,” Pennel greeted the patriarch with an underlying anxiousness. “I apologize for disturbing your meal with the young masters, but there’s a pressing matter that requires your attention.” The old butler hesitated before adding, “It’s about Lady Penelope.”
Hearing her name, Reynold scoffed. “Of course it is.”
“She never seems to learn.” Derrick condemned.
Ignoring his sons’ comments, the Duke dabbed his mouth and sighed. “Has she caused another commotion?”
Pennel cleared his throat, unsure how to start. “This morning, Emily went to wake Lady Penelope and she found . . . well, I think it’s best to show you, Your Grace. Emily.” The young maid entered, cradling a baby in her arms.
“Pennel, what is-" The Duke’s words died on his tongue when his blue eyes met a familiar turquoise. His sons looked on in confusion.
“As impossible as it seems, I believe that this infant is Lady Penelope.”