Question

his wandering gaze first encountered the sad, austere visage of the prelate. source: the puppet crown in the sentence above, austere has the same or almost the same meaning as: stern lonely candid wistful

Explanation:

"Austere" means severe or strict in manner or appearance. "Stern" has a similar meaning, referring to being serious and unyielding. "Lonely" means alone, "candid" means honest and straightforward, and "wistful" means having a feeling of longing.

Answer:

A. stern