Repercussions

Paul looked at the red-haired lady.

The red-haired lady also noticed Paul watching her and seemed to grow even more nervous.

So much so that Paul guessed she had suddenly come down with some kind of acute illness.

"Ma'am." Paul approached her and called softly.

"Huh?" The red-haired lady seemed startled.

Paul asked, "Would you like me to fetch a doctor for you?"

"Uh... no, no, I just... got a little nervous seeing the local lord from such a close distance, Earl Greiman."

"Oh, you know me?"

"I had the honor of seeing you from afar once in Lakeheart Town."

"From the sound of it, you're not from around here?"

"That's right. We... are traveling performers."

Paul smiled. "I wish you a pleasant journey in the Northwest Bay."

He looked toward the young man, who had stopped performing when Paul approached. "Don't stop, children are waiting. I'm quite interested too."

The young man grinned and did not show the usual fearful, deferential expression ordinary people wore upon seeing a noble.

"Earl Greiman, I eagerly hope to perform a wonderful magic trick for the greatest lord in the region. But my mentor is also longing for this honor."

The flattery was rather embarrassing. Paul asked, "Your mentor? Where is he?"

"He's preparing right now. Please believe me, his magic will leave you with an unforgettable impression. You might as well wait a little longer. Fine dishes require careful cooking."

"I'm looking forward to it." With that, Paul went into the church to look around.

Mariana sternly warned Nathan and Edward, "Listen. No matter whom I attack later, you two must cooperate with me. Follow my instructions. Everything I do and everything I tell you to do... is beyond question."

The two of them had never heard Mariana make such a demand