I remained quiet and continued eating as though the conversation had nothing to do with me. Around the table, everyone had already begun discussing the Saint's death, each coming up with their own theories about what might have happened in Region Four.
My father was the first to glance back at me.
"So that's where you disappeared to."
I didn't answer.
He leaned back in his chair with a knowing smile.
"I knew you weren't simply wandering around the settlement. You vanished for an entire day. I only do that when I am chasing something strange." He pointed his chopsticks toward me. "You went because we told you about those eyes, didn't you?"
I continued eating.
My silence was answer enough.
Roland let out a small chuckle before taking the empty chair beside the table. He reached into his robe, pulled out a small metal flask, and took a long drink before speaking.
