The story begins with the protagonist, Sophia Primrose, recounting the tragic murder of her wealthy merchant parents when she was six years old. The cause was likely a dispute related to their ethically ambiguous business dealings. She was taken in by Knight Commander Nathan Randolph, a noble and stoic man, and his kind wife Ophelia. Sophia, initially withdrawn and doll-like, was treated as their own child alongside their sons, Silas and Owen.
At twelve, during a summer vacation at their villa, Sophia experienced a flood of memories while swimming. These memories revealed she was a reincarnated soul from another world, destined to be a "Saint" on a purification journey. In this original timeline, she falls in love with Owen, who is assigned as her escort. However, her jealousy towards Owen and the Saint leads her to interfere with their relationship. Another escort, Lionel Addinson, a talented but difficult mage, also falls for the Saint and manipulates Sophia, contributing to her tragic end. Realizing this predetermined, lonely fate, Sophia resolves to change it.
Driven by a desire to protect Owen's happiness and avoid her foreseen demise, Sophia decides to leave the Randolph household. She requests to enroll in the prestigious Brydon Magic Academy in a neighboring country, citing her interest in advanced magic and a desire to find her parents' killers. Nathan initially refuses due to her age and the dangers of revenge, but Sophia reveals she has already passed the entrance exams and secured a place, forcing his reluctant acceptance. She leaves her loving adoptive family, including Owen, whom she cruelly tells she never considered them family to sever ties, though it pains her deeply.
Sophia arrives at Brydon Magic Academy in Elora, a bustling city and a center of magical learning. She is introduced to Oliver Darrell, a teacher, and her assigned guide, Louis Miller, a talented and friendly fellow special scholarship student. Sophia, a rare magic prodigy from Espardia, quickly bonds with Louis and other special scholarship students, finding solace in their camaraderie. Despite her initial struggles to adapt, she finds fulfillment in her studies.
During her first vacation, Sophia avoids returning to Espardia, still unable to face Owen. Louis, noticing her distress, invites her to stay at his family's bustling restaurant in the nearby town of Hicht. There, she helps out, finding a temporary escape from her emotional turmoil.
Later, Silas, Sophia's adoptive brother, visits the academy. He expresses concern from their parents and Owen, who is still deeply affected by Sophia's departure. Silas implores her to return, and after much internal conflict, Sophia agrees to a short visit, hoping to manage her emotions and avoid further pain.
Upon returning to the Randolph estate, Sophia is met with warmth from Ophelia and a hesitant Owen, who expresses his longing for her. Silas intervenes, reminding Owen of Sophia's need for space. During this visit, Nathan receives an invitation to a birthday party hosted by Lord Addinson, requesting Sophia's attendance. Despite her reluctance, Sophia agrees, seeing it as a potential opportunity.
At the Addinson estate, Sophia meets Lionel Addinson, the host's son. He is the same beautiful boy she encountered previously, and he interrogates her about her enrollment at Brydon. He reveals his interest in magic and requests she call him "Lyle." Sophia agrees, seeing this as a chance to understand him better.
Lionel then enrolls at Brydon Magic Academy, becoming a student alongside Sophia. He quickly forms a friendship with Louis, bonding over their shared passion for magic. Despite his popularity and noble status, Lionel remains close to Sophia, much to her apprehension and the jealousy of other students. Sophia struggles to maintain distance, fearing his influence and her own unresolved feelings for Owen.
During the third year, Sophia receives a letter from Owen, expressing his continued longing for her. She has not returned for holidays since her departure, fearing the emotional toll. Louis, sensing her hesitation, agrees to accompany her to meet Lionel, who wants to explore the city. They visit a shop where Lionel discovers a rare magic book, "Paracelsus's Grimoire," which he believes Sophia's insights helped him find. He reiterates his desire for her to call him "Lyle" and treat him as an equal. Sophia, though wary, begins to accept his presence.
