The street they turned onto was narrower. Quieter. The noise of the shopping district faded behind them and the path here was lined with older buildings, their stone faces worn smooth. Fewer people. A different kind of stillness.
Azael walked beside Arista, her hand in his, not paying particular attention to where they were going.
Then something caught the edge of his awareness.
A building on the left side of the street. A wooden sign above the door. The particular way the window display was arranged.
He slowed almost without realizing it.
He knew this street.
He knew this shop.
Azael kept his expression completely neutral.
Of all the streets in Elaris, he thought privately.
His pace stayed even. His hand stayed relaxed in Arista's.
'We just happened to walk this way. Perfectly normal. Nothing to worry about whatsoever.'
Then Arista spoke.
"You're wondering why we came down this way, aren't you?"
