Elegy from Another World

In the first few days after settling into the village, although the villagers were friendly, I was constantly plagued by a sense of alienation, a reluctance to become a burden. More importantly, my understanding of the world was almost nonexistent, especially when it came to written language—I could understand their language, but I was completely baffled by the winding symbols in the books. So, I volunteered to exchange labor for the opportunity to learn. I helped the villagers chop firewood, fetch water, and dry grain. In return, I asked them to teach me to read and write, and I received some basic food and a small reward for any eventuality.

Deeply worried that the "eternal burning" state might spiral out of control, I insisted on not staying in any villager's home. Relying on the scattered wilderness survival knowledge in my mind, I built a simple but sufficient shelter from the wind and rain using branches and broad leaves near the woods on the edge of the village. When I was alone at night, that soul-burning desire would rise, and I had to use immense willpower to restrain it, sometimes even needing the cooling power of water magic to temporarily calm it down, lest I truly become a monster that only knows how to demand.

However, my persistence seemed to have caught the eye of the family that had initially helped me. The kind couple (the husband was steady and hardworking, the wife was gentle and virtuous, and they had a lively and lovely child) contacted me again. They sincerely invited me to stay in their home, their tone full of concern.

"Lizia, it's chilly outside at night, we're worried about you living alone," his wife said softly.

"Yes, you've helped us so much, let us help you in return," the husband chimed in.

After a moment's internal struggle, I finally decided to reveal part of the truth, hoping they would understand my concerns. I lowered my head, my voice soft but clear: "Thank you for your kindness... but... my body is somewhat... special. I'm afraid I might lose control, causing you trouble or even danger. I don't want to hurt anyone, especially you."

I had thought that this vague warning would make them back down, but to my surprise, the husband and wife looked at each other and showed no fear on their faces. Instead, they revealed a deeper gentleness and understanding.

"We can probably guess some of it," the husband said slowly, his gaze steady. "Don't worry, Liscia. Whatever happens, our family will help you and meet your needs. You are not a burden."

The words sounded somewhat ambiguous, even suspicious, but looking into their incredibly sincere eyes and recalling their unreserved kindness over the past few days, my guard finally crumbled. Perhaps, I could try to believe them just this once? If I had to doubt even such kindness, I would find it impossible to get by in this world. In the end, I nodded and moved into their warm little house.

The next two weeks were peaceful and fulfilling. I eagerly studied the written language, and could already read some simple children's books and village notices, albeit haltingly. At the same time, I truly experienced daily life in this medieval-style world—no electricity, no machines, everything had to be done by hand: chopping wood to start a fire, cooking in heavy iron pots, washing clothes in the icy river water… Although it was hard work, there was a strange, down-to-earth sense of fulfillment. I got along well with this family, as if I had truly become one of them.

However, just when I thought life would continue smoothly, something happened that made my brain freeze instantly.

It was a sunny evening. After dinner, the children were asleep, and the lady of the house was tidying up in the kitchen. The gentleman, the always steady and reliable husband, gestured for me to follow him outside. We stood in the small courtyard, a gentle evening breeze blowing, the air filled with the fresh scent of grass and trees.

He turned to face me, his expression unusually solemn, even a little nervous. He took a deep breath, as if gathering immense courage, and then said clearly:

"Lizia, these past two weeks with you have been wonderful for our family. You are kind, strong, and... very beautiful. I... I want to ask you to be my wife, to be a true member of this family, okay?"

……

I stood there, frozen in place. My blood seemed to rush to my head, then recede abruptly, leaving only a blankness. A proposal…to me? To a “girl” of unknown origin, claiming amnesia, and harboring a terrible secret?

This sudden development completely exceeded all my expectations and contingency plans.