Longing for Normalcy

Frieda Blanke's engagement, which had begun with a "Meet There, Go Our Separate Ways" arrangement, seemed destined for trouble... but Frieda's treatment was far better than she had braced herself for.

To be honest, Frieda had been prepared to camp outdoors and cook for herself, but House Albright had a proper room ready for her, and there were even clothes waiting in the closet.

At mealtimes, a servant guided her to the dining room, and every dish she was served was delicious.

White, fluffy bread, soup brimming with ingredients, meat sausages, and baked sweets made with lavish amounts of sugar were all delicacies that appeared only a few times a year in Valmberg.

(...This is quite different from what I imagined.)

After dinner, Frieda returned to her room and folded her arms, murmuring thoughtfully.

In Valmberg, it was rare to see let alone curse mages—even ordinary mages were seldom seen—so Frieda knew little about curse mages. Even so, she could tell that this household differed from the popular image of a curse mage's home.

(For such a large mansion, there really aren't many people here.)

The only person Frieda had met in the house was the sinister-looking old woman, Adeline. There were also a few servants, but no other residents were anywhere to be seen. Not even her fiancé.

Frieda had been the only one seated in the dining room at dinner...