Next, under Ram's lead, the group arrived at the only decent house in the "Sanctuary."
An ordinary stone house stood within the backward village, yet it looked more like a fortress in a city, imposing and grand.
"This is where Lord Roswaal stays when he is in the 'Sanctuary.'"
Standing before the door, Ram explained this to everyone.
"It was originally where the representative of the 'Sanctuary' lived, but Lord Roswaal is the lord who governs this place, after all, so it was given over to him. The representative has gone out on business now, while Lord Roswaal has been waiting here for everyone's arrival."
With that, Ram pushed open the door before her and led everyone inside.
And naturally, waiting for them within was the head of the Mathers Family, the kingdom's strongest magician, who had vanished without a trace for an entire month.
"My, my, you've finally arrived~~"
The one speaking in that comical voice was Roswaal, wearing bizarre Jester makeup and behaving with extreme frivolity.
His every word and action seemed like part of a performance. Those who were already used to it did not think much of it, but Sylvia, seeing him for the first time, paused slightly before breaking into a laugh.
I see. So that's why they call him a Jester?
Naturally, Sylvia would not voice such a rude remark in public. She merely muttered it softly, quietly enough for only herself to hear.
"Oh my?"
Though Roswaal had not heard what she said, he seemed to notice Sylvia's reaction. Looking at her, he spoke with apparent curiosity.
"I don't believe I've seen this young lady before. Could she be Sir Fang Li's friend?"
Though his words and manner appeared curious, they actually carried a hint of probing.
In response, Sylvia merely gave him