The man paused when he saw Lindarion, but didn't show surprise. Just adjusted the cut of his smile.
"You're not one of mine," he said, voice smooth and polite. "That much is obvious."
Lindarion didn't answer. He didn't need to.
The man walked down three wide steps, slow and careful. "This estate isn't open to the public. You're either brave, stupid, or both."
Ashwing's voice touched the edge of his thoughts. "He doesn't recognize you. Not yet."
"I'll give you a moment to explain yourself," the Duke said, stopping about fifteen feet away. "If you don't have anything good, I'll have the guards handle it."
Lindarion spoke without shifting. "There's something beneath your estate."
The Duke tilted his head. "Is that what you're here for? Some treasure hunter chasing ghost stories?"
"No," Lindarion said. "I'm here because something old is pulsing through your leyline."
