Rosalia Seltfel, a sixteen-year-old noblewoman, has lived a sheltered life within her family's vast estate, largely unaware of the outside world. Known as the "Rose Princess," a title carrying negative connotations due to a family curse, she had always accepted her predetermined fate, including a childhood engagement to Forse Meletzen, the third son of a Duke. Her small world, consisting of her Marquis grandfather Lijik, adopted younger brother Aleysis, and loyal servants Milia and Gradiore, offered little room for personal desires.
This changes when she encounters Cadio Grant, a red-haired Royal Guard knight, lost on her estate. Despite his imposing physique, Cadio is disarmingly naive and genuinely compliments Rosalia's beauty, unlike others who react with disdain to her "Rose Princess" title. His simple words about living life freely ignite a powerful, unprecedented desire within Rosalia: she falls deeply in love and resolves to claim him, breaking free from her gilded cage.
Defying her grandfather's initial reluctance, Rosalia declares her love for Cadio, demands the annulment of her engagement to Forse, and secures enrollment in the prestigious Lestilia Academy. Her maid, Milia, is distraught by Rosalia's choice of a "wild" man, but ultimately pledges her support. At the academy, Rosalia quickly befriends Royal Prince Lenbild Valhelm Lestilia, Cadio's master. Lenbild is fair-minded and empathetic, disapproving of the "Rose Princess" custom and respecting Rosalia's brave decision. He becomes a crucial ally, helping her navigate the academy's social landscape and her goals.
Rosalia's path is complicated by Lutie, a scholarship student who has already captivated Forse and Aleysis. Lutie, seemingly innocent but subtly manipulative, quickly becomes Rosalia's rival. Rosalia also confronts Aleysis, who, despite his rough exterior, is deeply emotional and overprotective of his "beautiful" sister. He confesses his own love for Lutie, creating a complex web of relationships.
During a study session arranged by Lenbild, Rosalia creates an opportunity to be alone with Cadio. She shares a minor secret (her love for snakes) to encourage his vulnerability. Cadio, struggling with his identity, then confesses his profound secret: he is a transmigrator from another world, having died and woken up in Cadio Grant's body with no knowledge of this world's history. He also reveals Lutie is likely a transmigrator with future-seeing abilities and warns Rosalia not to trust her. Rosalia, finding his story explains his social awkwardness, believes him and offers him understanding and support, deepening their bond.
The academy's pre-term exams become a stage for Rosalia to assert herself. She scores a perfect 500, leading to accusations of cheating, subtly instigated by Lutie. Rosalia, with Lenbild's help, silences her accusers by flawlessly reciting a textbook page from memory. The math teacher further validates her brilliance, calling her a "once-in-a-century talent." Rosalia then reveals the truth of the "Rose Princess" curse to Cadio: her rose-scented blood is believed to awaken dragons and destroy the kingdom, leading to her isolation. This mutual sharing of deep secrets solidifies their connection.
By the end, Rosalia has transformed from a resigned "caged bird" into a determined woman actively pursuing her desires. She has broken free from a loveless engagement, proven her exceptional intellect, and forged a deep, understanding relationship with Cadio, built on shared vulnerabilities and secrets. She is now ready to face the challenges of her new life, with Cadio and her allies by her side, though Lutie remains a subtle, unsettling threat.
