“Welcome to the tiny village.” Francis pulled the vehicle to a stop outside one that was painted a light green. “This one’s yours.”

Ardala fought the seatbelt off and slid from the vehicle as Francis pressed an oddly shaped bit of metal into her hand. “Here’s your key, go on and check it out.”

Ardala looked at the bit of metal. “What do I do with this?”

“You use it to unlock the door.” Francis took the key back and walked up to ...