Chapter 2

Among the many properties of magic, those that possess the power of life force and healing were always said to be female.

This ability is rare, and it is often said that it is limited to healing minor illnesses.

That is why women who possess such powerful abilities, capable of even reviving those on the brink of death, are given the title of "Holy Maiden" by the country and are protected with great care.

"I seem to remember such things, for some reason."

In the spacious room where she was alone, Charlotte tried saying it out loud on purpose.

After her grand heartbreak, Charlotte's "husband," Ozwald, had quickly left the room.

"Oh, please wait, Mr. Ozwald! One more thing, your age! Please tell me your age!!"

"What's with you all of a sudden!? ...I'm twenty!! I'm leaving now, let go!"

She recalled the grim expression on Ozwald's face at that moment.

(Even though he looked like he didn't understand, he still told me... Hee hee.)

Savoring that joy, she peered into the mirror.

The reflection there was of a girl around eighteen years old.

Her moon-colored long hair swayed gently around her waist. Her large eyes had long lashes, and her lips were soft and plump.

Her hands and feet, visible under her nightgown, were slender, and her long nails were neatly trimmed.

Her chest seemed to be of a decent size, but whether it was to Ozwald's liking was unknown.

(Am I the "Holy Maiden"?)

Since she had no recollection of it, it didn't resonate with her at all.

However, the other piece of information she had obtained made her feel a bit unsteady just thinking about it.

(...His wife...)

She felt her mouth melting softly.

Her face was so relaxed that it felt like it might melt away, so she pressed her cheeks with both hands.

"Hmm, hmm, hmm, hmm, hmm... Even though I can't remember anything, I feel like I can live happily just with this fact."

Even if her husband declared that he hated her.

(Sad, but there's no need to be depressed. Because, not remembering anything means...)

With her pale blue eyes, she stared straight at herself in the mirror.

(—I have nothing to lose right now.)

Thinking this way, she felt like she could do anything.

(Alright, now that I understand, the only thing to do is take action! If I caused any trouble to Mr. Ozwald, I need to remember it. Otherwise, I can't apologize!)

However, no matter how much she racked her brain, her memory didn't seem to return.

As she pondered, a knocking sound came from the hallway.

"Excuse me, I'll come in..."

"? Yes, please come in!"

She was surprised but happy, not expecting any visitors.

After a few seconds, the door slowly opened.

There stood a small girl dressed in what looked like a maid's uniform.

"I've brought your breakfast..."

"Breakfast...!"

Hearing those words, Charlotte realized she was hungry.

"Thank you. It smells wonderful."

However, what concerned her was that the maid girl standing next to the serving tray was pale and trembling.

"Is something wrong? You look unwell..."

"Ah...!?"

When Charlotte took a step forward, the girl flinched.

"I'm very sorry..."

"Your face is so pale. If you'd like, you can use the bed here? And some water... Ah!"

At that moment, a loud rumbling sound came from Charlotte's stomach.

"..."

It was the sound of her stomach growling.

She hadn't realized how hungry she was, but it seemed to be quite serious. Charlotte pressed her stomach with both hands, feeling a bit embarrassed as she said:

"Excuse me! I'm so rude. But before I worry about my hunger, you need to rest...!"

"I'm... I'm sorry..."

"Eh?"

The maid took a step back, her voice strained and dry.