The evening of the Royal Magic Academy's grand dance party had arrived at last. Tina, now in her second year, should have been escorted by her fiancé Prince Hermes—but he'd sent no word, leaving her to attend on her second brother Phil's arm instead. The moment Phil stepped away to pay his respects to the faculty, Prince Hermes materialized before her like a predator who'd been lying in wait. Flanking him were his mistress Mel, the baron's daughter, and the rest of his corrupt entourage: the chancellor's son, the knight commander's son, the cardinal's son, and the headmaster's son. Prince Hermes raised his voice so every soul in the ballroom could hear. Tina Barcelona—I hereby condemn you! His declaration rang out like a death knell, accusing her of being a vicious villainess who'd tormented poor, innocent Mel. He rattled off a laundry list of crimes she'd never even dreamed of committing. The surrounding students exchanged uncomfortable glances, their faces twisting with disgust. Anyone with half a brain could see his accusations were complete fabrications. Witnessing this travesty unfold, you step forward and plant yourself directly in his path to her.