Replaced Chapter 3

As dawn breaks over a world hanging in the balance, Kelvin wrestles with the revelations delivered by a dragon, whose wisdom spans the ages. The grim future laid bare before him—a future where unchecked malice leads to the tragic demise of innocents—plunges Kelvin into a crisis of faith. The philosophical musings of Kit, with his controversial belief in the necessity of evil for the existence of good, further complicate Kelvin's internal struggle. Yet, it is the potential for change, for steering young Geoffrey away from a path of destruction, that rekindles Kelvin's resolve.

Armed with the knowledge that the ferret's malevolent course will not correct itself, Kelvin embarks on a strategic campaign to alter the trajectory of the future. This mission, fraught with ethical dilemmas and the need for discretion, requires the gathering of allies and resources—a network of support built on trust and shared commitment to the greater good. Kelvin's initial move against the ferret, a calculated act of sabotage, marks the beginning of a silent war waged in the shadows of time.

Each step Kelvin takes is measured against the backdrop of moral considerations, the balance between intervention and the preservation of free will. The chapter delves into Kelvin's reflections on the nature of morality, the weight of his choices, and the resolve that drives him forward. As he navigates the labyrinth of time, Kelvin is confronted with the realization that his journey is as much about protecting the present as it is about securing a future free from darkness.

The path forward is uncertain, each move a gamble in the high-stakes game against an adversary unaware of the shifting timelines. Yet, Kelvin's determination is unwavering, fortified by each challenge faced and lesson learned. As the chapter closes, Kelvin stands on the precipice of the unknown, ready to confront whatever lies ahead with a heart emboldened by the fight for a brighter tomorrow.