We were in his backyard. I looked around the fenced-in space, confused. There was nothing but trees and shrubs. Maybe he just wanted us to get some fresh air.

Nicholas walked to the middle of the yard and pulled at the grass. What the h*ll was he doing? The grass started to rise, and I realized Nicholas was opening a door. He lifted it and signaled for me to come over. Without hesitation, I was at his side. Like everything else in the village, it was dark below the door, but I ...