LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 10: The Timekeeper's Dilemma
As Alex stood frozen in fear, Master Clockmaker's expression turned grave.
"We can't let you remain here," Master Clockmaker said, his voice firm but laced with regret. "The timeline is too fragile to take on the risk of destabilization."
Alex felt a sense of desperation creeping up his spine as he realized that his own existence might be the very thing that could bring about chaos.
"But why?" Alex asked, his voice shaking with frustration. "I'm not a threat... I'm just trying to find my way home."
Master Clockmaker sighed, his eyes clouded with concern.
"I know you are, Alex. But in this world of temporal physics, even the smallest anomaly can have catastrophic consequences. We've tried to stabilize your frequency, but it's... different."
As Master Clockmaker spoke, a figure emerged from the shadows – a woman with piercing green eyes and hair as black as coal.
"Ah, Adair," Master Clockmaker said, his voice tinged with relief. "Perfect timing. This young man is facing a bit of a dilemma."
The woman's gaze locked onto Alex, and he felt a shiver run down his spine as she spoke in a voice that was both melodious and unsettling.
"I've been sent to evaluate the situation," Adair said, her eyes never leaving Alex's face. "I must say, I'm intrigued by this anomaly's temporal signature."
Master Clockmaker nodded gravely. "As am I. But in light of his... unpredictable nature, we fear that he may pose a risk to the timeline."
Adair's gaze lingered on Master Clockmaker before returning to Alex.
"Tell me, young man," Adair said, her voice dripping with curiosity. "What is it that you truly desire?"
Alex hesitated, unsure of how to answer. But as he looked into Adair's piercing green eyes, he knew exactly what he had to say.
"I want to go home," Alex said, his voice firm. "I want to return to my own time and be with the people I love."
Adair's gaze softened, and for a moment, Alex saw a glimmer of hope in her eyes.
"Very well," Adair said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'll help you find a way back home... but at what cost?"
As Adair spoke, Master Clockmaker's expression turned grave once more.
"No," Master Clockmaker said, his voice firm. "We can't allow it. The timeline is too fragile."
Adair's gaze flashed to Master Clockmaker before returning to Alex.
"Ah, but think of the possibilities, my dear clockwork," Adair said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Perhaps this anomaly can be... recalibrated?"
Master Clockmaker's expression turned horrified as he realized what Adair was suggesting...