In the Wizard World~
Isabella walked calmly across the vast campus of the Wizard Academy, dressed in a slightly regal Wizard's robe.
The fitted robe swayed naturally around her, lending her an aristocratic air.
A blood-red petal was embroidered at the center of her chest, making the robe especially distinctive.
Every student nearby turned to look. Some gazed at her with fierce envy, others with a hint of admiration.
They pointed and whispered among themselves.
The younger girls' eyes sparkled. Even the older Wizard apprentices, including those who had joined before Isabella, looked at her with fascination.
As Isabella passed, the apprentices respectfully performed a Wizard's salute: one hand behind the back, the other before the chest, followed by a bow of roughly thirty degrees.
Among Wizards, this was the highest courtesy a lower-ranked Wizard could show a higher-ranked one!
"Good heavens, I never thought Lady Isabella would already become a First-Level Wizard. It's unbelievable!"
"Exactly. High-grade aptitude, and a gifted bloodline comparable to a perfect one! It's as though every blessing under heaven has fallen on her. She might as well be heaven's secret daughter!" said a freckled girl, unable to hide her envy.
Some newly arrived apprentices did not understand and asked their companions about her.
The story of what had happened after Isabella arrived in the city of the Wizard Academy slowly came to light.
About half a year earlier~
When Isabella and the others had first reached the Wizard Academy~
The place had been deserted and quiet. Countless people wore worried frowns, and even the apprentices were tense and uneasy, with fear showing on their faces.
Sorrow hung in the air~
"What happened?"
Unease stirred in Barton's heart. He quickly led Isabella toward the headmaster's office.
Knock, knock, knock~
A burst of knocking sounded at the