(Despite not believing me, seems like they aren't being too rough with me.)
Walking at a not slow, not fast pace, the journey was mostly in silence. Simon could easily clamber over the many obstacles and slopes on the forest floor, eyes darting about at the scenery he could see from under his tight hood, following after the veteran hunters.
The young hunter glanced back regularly to ensure that the... child, or what seemed like a child, was following them. She couldn't help but be surprised that someone that seemed to be the age of her little brother was so physically accomplished. After seeing this, she went to the thin man to confide in him.
"Hey, Samuel..." Said the young hunter.
The thin man, named Samuel, turned to her with slightly raised eyebrows, as if asking what she needed.
"As a mage, you're pretty smart right?"
His lips couldn't help but twitch.
"I'd hope so, considering the level I'm at and strength I possess," he responded in a hoarse voice.
"So... what do you think of that kid? I'm considered talented, but I'm sure I couldn't move like that when I was his age... I wonder what he looks like, what race he's from? Do you think we should check?"
Samuel frowns, and responds. "Annie, you know as well as I do that the Scrying Elder told us to not investigate too deeply, and to just bring him. Don't stick your nose where it doesn't belong, lest it get burned. Your uncle is just ahead, and you know what he thinks of your incessant curiosity."
"Whatever, I'll just ask him myself."
"You know your uncle would refu- oh."
Seeing her lower her speed to fall into step with Simon instead of to her uncle ahead for permission, he made no move to stop her, and merely sighed.
"A 'new being' huh? Might as well establish a relationship between the village and him, no matter how insignificant."
These mutters were heard by him and him alone.