"Everyone, welcome to my domain."
Lunifis had changed into a sumptuous fox-fur coat and wore a fluffy lady's hat. Glittering jewels adorned her from head to toe, adding a married woman's allure to her extravagant elegance.
Roland looked at her with a smile, only to find that Lunifis was looking back at him, her gaze holding a deliberately concealed ardor.
That passion, like magma hidden beneath a volcano on the verge of erupting, reminded Roland that she was a yandere.
His smile stiffened slightly.
Lunifis stepped forward to greet them, bringing with her a warm fragrance of orchids and musk.
"This way, please!"
Lady Lunifis was far too gracious. She had even come to the city gate to welcome them personally!
Froya, Skord, Yvonne, and the others who had accompanied Roland were deeply impressed.
Roland composed himself and followed Lunifis into the city under her personal guidance.
"Now that the lecture is over, leave the Branch Association arrangements to me. You can simply enjoy a leisurely winter holiday here..."
Lunifis spoke to Roland as they walked.
Roland said, "I couldn't possibly impose."
Lunifis smiled. "Have you noticed these ice lanterns?"
At her words, everyone looked around.
Sure enough, numerous ice lanterns hung or stood outside every home. When they had gazed at the city from afar, these lanterns had created its festive atmosphere beneath the gloomy sky.
The ice lanterns came in all shapes. Some resembled blooming snow lotuses, others lifelike animals, while some took the form of ice pillars or enormous spheres.
Each household's craftsmanship differed, and the quality varied, but it was clear that every lantern had been made with care.
Like guardian spirits, they surrounded their respective houses. The ever-burning lamps, fueled by oil from a special kind of fish, provided steady light throughout the long, snowy