Vione's footsteps stopped instantly. She blinked, looked around, and found herself in the presence of an old man whose face seemed familiar.

"I'll ask you again. Who are you?"

Vione swallowed. "I am Vione," she replied as she stepped forward again. She approached the old man and asked him in return. "And who are you?"

"I am Ignatius."

Between her still labored breaths, Vione tried to smile. She put on a calm face, even though her mind was now in a panic. She hadn't expected anyone to see her emerge from the time portal. As a result, she was now confused. There was no way she could explain the situation...