Miri and her family live in a small, poor village on Mount Eskel where almost everyone works in the quarry mining linder stone. Miri's father won't let her work in the quarry, and she thinks it's because she's so small. She would love to prove to him that she's capable, but a decree from the king saying that the prince's new bride will come from Mount Eskel changes her life. All eligible girls must attend an academy to prepare them to be princesses. Then the prince will choose his favorite. Princess Academy is a dreary place run by an unpleasant woman. Miri is happy for the education but dislikes the harsh rules and the competition which develops among the girls. She is not sure whether she would like to be princess or stay on the mountain and continue her growing friendship with Peder. When the lives of the girls at the academy are in danger, it's up to Miri to save them.