3 – Six months later...
My dear brother,
I didn't feel like writing these last few months. It has been tough: I'm still working on the Azran. More importantly, I'm trying to build a plan for our future, so we can finally live together in peace. It may take some time, but I promise you that one day, I'll be coming to get you in London, and everything will finally be over.
When I'm done writing this letter, I will send a package to the Laytons. I want to make sure that you're doing well, and I have found something that belongs to you. I need to take a decision: should I let your parents know that I am the sender, or must I keep this a secret from you? If not, I am afraid to make you suffer. It's only been eight months, after all: your wound can't be healed yet.
I wish Mother were still here… she would have known what it is I must do. Sometimes, Theodore, being alone is a hard burden to bear. I'm turning ten next month, I'm still a child. Just like you. And children should never be left alone. I will do anything in my power to protect my own if I ever get the chance to have some.
On the other hand, I have decided to go back to school. I couldn't stand staying all day alone at the house, so I'm progressively reconnecting with my old life. I did some progress on my researches on the Azran: I now have a clearer grasp of who they are, and what they seek. However, grey areas are surrounding Father's whereabouts: I'm desperate to know where he is, but I can't get any answers. I'm starting to believe that he may be dead as well as Mother. I don't ever want to accept this truth, but what if Targent killed him when they realized he was of no use to them? Then my dreams of a reunited family would be shattered. Therefore, I must fight: he has to be alive. He couldn't abandon us. Soon, he will return, I am sure of it. He could even be already looking for you.
Sometimes, friends are asking me about you. I'm forced to lie to them – it is too hard to tell the truth when I'm not even fully aware of it myself. While answering, I'm trying to convince myself that you're happy, living away with one of our nonexistent aunts, so you don't suffer too much because of Mother's death. Sometimes, Father and I come to visit you, and you will be back soon. I'm sure you would understand why I'm doing this: people at school can't ever learn about the truth that is our family. That is also why I shall do everything I can to get you back, or my lies will eventually come back to haunt me. Meanwhile, please take care of yourself.
Hershel