‘…What is this again?’

Why did such an anomaly exist in the heart of the desert?

An unrealistic distortion seemed to warp the entire area. Despite being a straight path, to reach the point visible ahead required following a winding route.

Like drawing a straight line on crumpled paper.

“Tsk…”

It seemed like it could be the ‘Domain’ of a magician who had reached the 7th stage. However, Froy’s words indicated it wasn’t that simple.

Approaching closely, he whispered to her with a troubled expression:

“Be cautious, Rosha. Space is fixed here, so my ability barely works.”

“…Really?”

“Yes. At best, I can only summon the mansion’s entrance for a brief moment.”

Hmm… unless designed by an exceptional magician of the 8th stage or higher, obstructing even others’ abilities would be difficult.

Had Koko been awake, asking him would have provided the answer, but unfortunately, the parrot hadn’t yet roused from slumber.

It was then that Nardil, who had been conversing with the warriors, approached and spoke:

“It seems this place is quite peculiar to you as well. This area has always been like this since I was a child.”

“Always? Do you know when it became this way, perchance?”

“Well… from the time the great fortune-teller began residing here? Or perhaps even earlier. The great fortune-teller is already over 100 years old, and he took up residence here long before I was born, so I’m not too sure of the details.”

…Could this great fortune-teller be a magician who reached the 8th stage?

‘A prophetic ability combined with magic? That doesn’t seem likely, though.’

It appeared there was something she would need to inquire about from the great fortune-teller.

The warriors familiar with the route took the lead.

Following them with wary gazes, they soon came upon an imposing ravine.

Likely sculpted by fierce winds, undulating patterns adorned the towering red cliffs flanking both sides – a majestic natural wonder prompting awe, yet an even more mystical sight soon emerged.

“Please follow closely.”

As the warriors led the way, Rosha couldn’t help but let out a soft exclamation.

For with each step they took, the cliffs seemed to recede smoothly, creating a path of their own accord.

Like a living ravine.

“This is… quite remarkable.”

Even Froy appeared intrigued, surveying their surroundings curiously.

Unlike the desert outside, the ravine’s interior provided shade and a gentle breeze, offering a refreshing respite as they diligently followed the striding warriors.

How far had they ventured?

Sensing something amiss, Rosha spoke up in a low voice:

“But… when did the ravine become this narrow?”

“So you’ve noticed it too? I was wondering if I was the only one.”

It wasn’t a mere illusion.

At some point, the path had begun twisting, the ravine’s cliffs gradually closing in with each step they took, the passage constricting until certain sections appeared threateningly sharp.

Seeing the jagged protrusions nearing, Froy pulled Rosha close, shielding her with his embrace.

“Oh? But this is the correct path…”

“Wasn’t there no issue the last time we came through?”

The narrowed passage forced the warriors to press their shoulders together, prompting bewildered murmurs.

The already tense Nardil, conscious of their guests, approached with a hardened expression. Hastily, the warriors offered explanations:

“But this is indeed the right path, Your Highness. We’ve confirmed it on the map.”

The map they briefly showed tracked the route by footsteps, and having traversed this ravine countless times, they seemed certain of their bearings.

“If we proceed further, it seems the path will eventually disappear… Wouldn’t it be better to return to the ravine’s entrance for now?”

“However, the return journey is unlikely to be smooth either. The ravine could further constrict as we backtrack.”

“Then what can we do in this situation?”

As the warriors continued their deliberations, they gradually turned towards Froy one by one.

Among those who had participated in the previous trial, it was common knowledge that the man possessed spatial abilities.

Of course, Froy didn’t seem inclined to offer his aid.

“Why are you looking at me?”

Protectively holding Rosha close, he asked dryly, as if questioning why he should bother assisting them when relocating just the two of them would suffice.

Instantly grasping his intentions, Nardil responded:

“My apologies for this predicament… but would you truly act that way?”

“What way is that, Your Highness? I haven’t said anything.”

Tching.

Sensing the impending clash between the two, Rosha slowly raised her hand and spoke:

“I’ll try finding the path.”

While Froy seemed concerned about her ability being revealed, the only visible change would be her eye color, so it was fine.

‘If he’s really worried, he can just take the lead.’

Surprisingly, the man obediently followed as she gently pulled his hand, taking the vanguard position as the group’s gazes mixed with expectation settled upon her.

In this situation, there was no need for excessive exertion.

Using [The Guiding Lantern] to find the path was simply performing its intended function, after all.

Faaah!

Even in the Guide God’s absence, the lantern’s brilliant golden radiance illuminated the correct route for her.

What had initially been such a narrow passage that she had to walk half-embraced with Froy gradually began widening.

Then, at a certain point, they emerged into an open space.

It was a circular clearing surrounded by red cliffs, with patches of sunlight filtering through and a remarkably clear pool at the center. Spotting the water source, the warriors let out relieved sighs.

“Whew…”

“We’ve arrived safely, it seems.”

“Our mistake could have led to grave complications… Thank you for your assistance. We’re always indebted to you.”

Approaching Rosha with an embarrassed air, Nardil spoke as the warriors one by one followed, offering apologies and gratitude.

It was at that moment.

Charalang-

At the distinct, clear ringing sound, Rosha turned towards its source.

From a different wind-sculpted archway emerged a figure – a short, wizened elder wearing a wide bamboo hat and thin veil.

Their snow-white hair was tightly bound in a bun, while the hands peeking from their long sleeves were intricately wrinkled.

“There’s no need for such apologies. I was merely testing you briefly.”

The elder’s voice resonated with a slightly gruff, eccentric quality.

“Great Fortune-Teller!”

“It’s been a while.”

The warriors clustered around the decidedly formidable elder, greeting them warmly, suggesting a long-standing familiarity.

Acknowledging their greetings, the fortune-teller turned towards Rosha.

Once more, the charalang sound chimed – likely from the small crystal shards affixed to the veil brushing together.

Their gazes briefly met through the translucent veil.

After scrutinizing her, the elder gestured as if assessing something before speaking:

“I’ve been waiting for you. Come this way.”

* * *

The destination the fortune-teller led them to was a modest dwelling beyond the arched passage.

Smaller than a single noble’s chamber, the space contained only the barest essentials atop its thickly cushioned stone flooring.

Rosha and Froy were seated across from the elder at a low table.

“I knew you were coming. You’re younger than I expected.”

Rosha studied the fortune-teller intently. No matter how she looked, he didn’t resemble a magician of the 8th stage.

‘Of course, if he deliberately concealed his attainments, I wouldn’t know. But there’s no reason to hide it.’

The question of who had created this area remained unanswered.

Just as intently, the fortune-teller observed Rosha.

After a while, the elder spoke.

“First, I apologize for the test earlier. However, there was a need to confirm something.”

“Confirm what, exactly?”

“Whether you possessed that ability, [The Guiding Lantern].”

Upon overhearing that exchange, Froy’s expression hardened noticeably.

“…’Lantern’, you say?”