The path out of the village was narrow winding past low stone walls and terraced fields before turning into dirt that trailed up the hillside The air grew quieter with each step The chatter of villagers faded replaced by the steady whisper of wind through the mountain grass
Emmet walked with his usual measured pace scrolls gone his hands clasped behind his back Beside him Nero moved like a man expecting answers posture rigid his slate gray eyes fixed ahead his cloak swaying with each stride His expression was calm but his mind was already sharp with suspicion
"Outside the village" Nero said flatly
Emmet didn't look at him "Yes He's a little bit on the eccentric side"
Nero's gaze flicked briefly to him then forward again
When they rounded the bend and the trees thinned the house came into view
