They could smell a strangeness in the breeze that blew faintly on their faces down the hill; a beckoning smell of salt and seaweed and excitement.
The characters in Susan Cooper's "Over Sea, Under Stone" sense something unusual in the air as they descend a hill. The breeze carries hints of salt and seaweed, evoking feelings of adventure and curiosity. This atmosphere suggests a connection to the ocean, awakening their imagination and anticipation of what lies ahead.
The aromas of the sea serve as a metaphor for the mysterious and exciting journey the characters are about to embark on. It highlights how nature can evoke powerful emotions and a sense of exploration, encouraging them to follow where this intriguing scent leads them.