This story is based on two cartoons....Swan Lake and the Swan Princess..BUT I didn't follow them word by word or scene by scene. I simply borrowed bits and pieces of each plot and molded it to what I liked...I hope you enjoy it...I don't know how long it's going to be?? 2 or 3 parter more then likely...rest of the authors notes at bottom..meet you there. Set me Free By: Twilight Editor: SailorTwin Once upon a time in a kingdom far far away there lived a beautiful and wise ruler. She was called Queen Serenity and was loved by all of her subjects. She was kind to all she confronted and fair on all who did wrong. Her beloved king passed away just a few months ago and alas left her to raise their unborn child alone. Many months passed and soon she gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, with hair of gold and eyes of sparkling sapphire blue. “I will name you Serenity II.” She gazed down lovingly at her daughter eyes full of compassion and warmth. “Hello Serenity, I’m your mother. You look just like me, but you have your fathers eyes.” Princess Serenity smiled up at her mother and flung her small hands outwards trying to grab her hair. “My my aren’t you a just a curious little bunny?” Queen Serenity laughingly said. ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ Years passed and each day Princess Serenity grew more and more beautiful. She had many admirers; there were suitors always seeking her hand in marriage, but she always turned them down. All they wanted was power and riches with her at their side. They didn’t care what she liked or didn’t like, all they cared about was her beauty. Her mother was always trying to get her to marry Prince Darien so they could join their kingdoms and she would finally be settled. Each year her mother and his mother always planned for them to spend the summers together whether or not they liked it. They always teased and tormented one another everytime they would come into hearing range. The last time she saw him was a summer ago and he was a skinny and annoying boy. Princess Serenity was walking along the royal gardens inhaling the intoxicating scent of the flowers. She would be leaving soon to visit Prince Darien again but not before celebrating her 18th birthday with her mother. When she grew tired of walking she seated herself on the soft deep green grass. With a sigh she leaned back with her arms behind her and turned her head to soak in the sun's warm rays. The sound of nearing footsteps caused her to open her eyes and look up. Molly, Serenity’s servant and bestfriend came running up the hill panting heavily. “Molly, what is wrong? Why are you running so fast?” “Oh Sere! Your mother requests your presence in the throne room.” She said as she gasped for air. Sere quickly stood up dusting off her dress with a worried expression in her sapphire eyes. Many people in the palace addressed her as Sere because she thought Princess to was formal. “Do you know why Molly? Is everything all right?” Sere began to panic and rushed down the hill with Molly on her heels. “I think she said something about a new suitor has arrived!!” Molly yelled from behind her. Suddenly she made impact with something and fell to the ground. “Ouch! Why did you stop like that Sere! You knew I was behind you!” Molly grumbled rubbing her head. “Oh sorry Moll” Sere said as she helped her up. “Since it’s just another suitor I think I’ll take my time instead.” A smug expression on her face. Molly gave her a dubious look but then just shrugged her shoulders and continued to walk beside her. She soon entered the thrown room and curtseyed low to her mother and suitor. Sere then stood up and eyed the suitor curiously. He was rather old around his 30’s she presumed. Too old for her in her opinion, but she smiled out of courtesy. “Serenity, this is Lord Keeghan from the north and he wishes to seek your hand in marriage. Do you accept?” Queen Serenity asked her daughter in a formal tone. “How is it you heard about me Lord Keeghan?” Sere always questioned them as to why they would seek her hand if they have never seen her before. “Well your beauty is known and spoken of quite a bit. I would have to agree with them too, you are indeed beautiful.” He then bowed deeply to Sere took her hand a kissed it. Sere simply smiled, drew her hand back and spoke softly yet firm. “I am sorry you had to travel so far as hope to have my hand in marriage, but I must deny your offer.” Sere then gracefully walked up to her mother curtseyed again and took her sit next to her. Lord Keeghan’s face was turning red from anger but pushed it back down before he exploded. He looked back and forth between Queen Serenity and her daughter who both had serene expressions on their faces. Finally he spoke out. “NO ONE has ever rejected me!! I will have you for my bride PRINCESS just you wait!” He then drew his right fist into the air and threw something to the ground. Suddenly smoke surrounded where he stood and when it cleared he was gone. “Mother! He’s a sorcerer?” Sere asked astonished. Finally tearing her eyes from where Lord Keeghan last stood she turned to look at her mother. Queen Serenity had not answered her yet and remained eerily silent. Many weeks had passed since the appearance of Lord Keeghan. He had not showed up or brought any threats since then and so life moved on. At first Queen Serenity would not allow her daughter to wander anywhere around the palace grounds without some guards there to protect her, but seeing no threat she disregarded the rule. Sere was in her bedroom chambers packing for her trip over seas to see Prince Darien. Wandering along her long closet she grabbed all kinds of dresses with different styles and color she thought she might need. She heard they would be throwing a ball in honor of her arrival and so she looked for her favorite dress. It wasn’t as fancy compared to her others, but she didn’t care. Finding it she carefully tucked it in her trunk with the other dresses. “Sere are you still packing?” “Yea, Moll I’m still packing. Why do you ask?” Sere then turned around to face her bestfriend and lightly padded the bed next to her telling her to have a seat. She was going to miss her and her other friends over the long summer. Sere always resented summer now because it meant leaving her mother and home. She didn’t hate Darien, she just didn’t always get along with him. He always teased and taunted her calling her names and being able to infurate her so. She had to admit he was cute, though she would never actually confess it. “I’m going to miss you so much Moll. I know I’m going to get lonely there with no one to talk to.” smiling sadly she looked down to her hands crossed on her lap. “Oh don’t worry Sere. I’ll write you when I can and besides Darien might have changed over the year. You never know.” wrapping a comforting arm around her shoulders she pulled her into a hug then released her smiling warmly. “Besides, your mother said I could come and keep you company on your trip there! Calm on! Let’s see what else we can pack!” Molly excitedly started for Sere’s closet. Smiling brightly Sere could only nod her head and giggle at Molly’s enthusiastic energy. After saying her good-bye’s to her mother Sere sadly made her way to the ship with Molly at her side . The trip there was long and dull with nothing to do. The two girls laughed about anything and everything as they were the only ones to keep each other company, well besides the other crew members. It was night time and Molly was in Sere’s room having a discusion about Prince Darien. “So tell me Sere, do you think the Prince is cute? From what I’ve heard he’s quite a catch now!” Molly drooled bringing a hand up to her forehead and pretending to faint. “Oh Molly! You're so silly sometimes. Well, okay I’ll admit he was pretty cute when I last left......don’t you dare say anything Molly!” Sere got up towering over Molly’s lying form and visciously pointed a finger at her face. Slapping her hand from her face Molly lopsidedly smiled and sat up. “Sure Sere....I won’t say a thing!” Getting an evil gleam in her eye she began to make kissing noising while moaning Darien’s name. In midst of her kissing fiasco Molly was hit in the face by a large fluffy pillow sent by no other than her bestfriend and princess Serenity. Before they knew it a full fledged pillow fight had begun and it was each person for themselves. Sooner than Serena expected she arrived at Prince Darien’s palace with Queen Gia (did I spell that right?) standing beside him at the front gates. The servants were lined up neatly against the wall to greet her hello as well. Gracefully she walked up to them avoiding any eye contact with Darien as she deeply curtseyed in front of her majesty. “It is a pleasure to see you again your highness.....Prince Darien” Slowly rising from her position she quickly glanced at Darien and was stunned to be staring at the most handsome man she had ever seen. Holding her breath she brought an arm up to her chest and gawked at him. He was no longer skinny and puny but tall and well built, that much she could tell. His velvety jet black hair hung loosely around his midnight blue eyes. They seemed to stand out from his other exceptional features enchanting her. Serena wasn’t the only one gawking though. Prince Darien’s mouth hung slightly open and his eyes were wide in surprise. Never in all his years did he ever expect to see a person so stunningly beautiful as Serena. Her long silken golden hair fell to her waist framing her petite body nicely and her eyes, a wondrous shade of blue. They were light like the daytime sky but held depth to them, saying she was more than she appeared to be. Breaking himself from his stupor he bowed and kissed her hand tenderly, unlike the many times before in the past. Queen Gia smiled brightly to herself as she saw the fireworks go off between the entranced couple. Turning around she shooed the servants away telling them to get back to work. Veering back, she examined Serena and had to admit she was remarkably beautiful. ‘And such a darling and sweet person under it all too.’ Walking up to them she cleared her throat, for neither seemed to notice she was there. “Darien...dear why don’t you show Serenity up to her room?” She subtly suggested placing a hand on his shoulder. “Shall we then?” Darien asked offering his arm. Serena could merely nod and slip her arm through his as he guided her to her chambers. Silently they walked along the vast hallways of the castle as a million thoughts flashed through their heads. Darien slightly turned his head left and down to steal yet another glance at the beautiful creature walking gracefully beside him. He had always thought she was slightly pretty when they were younger but never dared to say a word, for his mother would go ballistic. Ballistic in a way where she would throw a party and try even harder then she was now to get them to marry. Darien didn’t want to be forced into marriage and in turn excused himself whenever the topic came up, much to his mothers disapproval. Sometime as they were growing up the two formed an unshakable bond that secretly drew them closer together. Seeing a small blush arise from her checks, Darien quickly turned his head away and stared straight ahead embarrassed at being caught. Letting her eyes wander among the corridor she suddenly felt as if she was being watched. Looking out of the corner of her eye she saw Darien staring at her, a glazed expression in his eyes. ‘Why is he staring at me?’ Not wanting to say anything she looked straight ahead as a rosy blush appeared on her checks. As soon as they reached the door to her chambers he slowly bent down and kissed her hand again. Turning, he left her alone as she entered her room. Over all the years of her visiting she always stayed in this unchanging room. In the center of the room against the wall was a large queen size bed that was decorated with white and pink sheets, comforters and pillows. Two small night stands were located of either side of the bed with miniature vases and candles sitting atop. The room was vast and wonderfully decorated with different shades of pink from light to deep. Walking past the bed and other small furnishings she strolled to the balcony doors and swiftly opened them. Stepping outside she walked over the edge bringing her lightly tanned hands to rest on the railing. Leaning over she looked into the royal gardens and examined the many flowers and colors. The air around her had a sweet smell to it daintily pleasing her senses. Looking over to her right a few rooms away stood Prince Darien secretly watching her from his balcony. Turning to face him fully she lightly waved and smiled brightly at him. Surprised, Darien shyly smiled and waved back before heading into his room. Serena softly giggled to herself before she too retired to her room to prepare for the ball, but not before catching a quick nap. Serena was sleeping blissfully in her bed until a soft knock awoke her from her dreams. Silently the large door opened and in stepped another young girl around her age. She had shining long black hair and these amazing dark violet eyes. Confused Serena sat up in her bed with a questioning look in her eyes. “Hello Princess Serenity. I’m sorry I didn’t mean to wake you, but I thought I would wake you up because the ball is in a few hours.” Serena eyed her curiously, she wasn’t a servant for her clothing was too nice to be one. ‘Perhaps she royalty as well?’ “Oh, how rude of me not to introduce myself. I am Princess Raye, Prince Darien’s sister.” Raye said after briefly curtsying. Serena let out a small gasp of shock as she stared at the girl in front of her. ‘He never mentioned having a sister before?!’ She could see the resemblance’s between them. The hair, same mysterious eyes and face structure...it was so obvious. “I know what you must be thinking. It’s just I always left for the summer to visit another prince like what you do. That and Darien and I aren’t always on the best of terms. We like to argue a lot.” Raye explained smiling. She then walked across the room and sat on the bed next to Serena. “Oh, I see. Well it’s a pleasure to finally meet you Princess Raye.” “Please, don’t call me Princess. Just Raye will do, and what perhaps do you go by?” “Sere mainly.” She said smiling, losing some of the tension she was feeling from earlier. “Well Sere, let’s get you ready for the ball then shall we?” Raye got up and walked to her closet but then stopped and looked at Sere. “You are very beautiful you know. I think you will be a perfect couple with my brother. You're just what he needs.” Turning back around she walked into the closet. Sere simply stared at her back blushing at her compliment forgetting that she already picked out her dress for the ball. “Oh, uhm Raye? I have already picked a dress for the ball tonight. It’s hanging on the dresser right there.” Leaving the closet she looked over the dress and nodded. “Well then Sere, get up! We have got to get you ready.” With that Raye dragged her out of bed and got her ready for the ball. As soon as she was dressed and ready, Raye brought her to the mirror to look over her appearance. Sere wore a long pure shining silk white dress that flowed to the ground just below her bust. Small gold ringlets adorned the top of her dress and small gold beads were lined under her chest. It was strapless showing off her creamy, smooth shoulders and neck. Her hair was half way up and curled falling gracefully over her shoulders making her baby blue eyes stand out. The top half of her hair was in small braids and pulled into a bun making it resemble a crown. Sere looked incredibly gorgeous and she would definitely be the talk of the ball. Walking over to the jewelry box she pulled out a simple necklace and slipped it on. It was a light pink crystalline heart outlined in gold. Her mother gave it to her when she was younger and she wore it every chance she got. Turning to look at Raye she saw her nodding her head in approval. “It adds a nice touch. Come on Sere, we should be heading off now.” Linking arms, the two giggled and left for the ball. They chatted and talked the whole time like they have been long life friends. Stopping in front of the doors, they looked around for their escorts and saw no-one. Just then someone lightly tapped them on the shoulders. Whirling around they came face to face with Prince Darien and by what Raye had described Prince Jedite, the one she left to see over the summer. Sere stared at them both but favored Darien, she couldn’t tear her eyes away from the ruggedly handsome man. He was wearing a black tuxedo with a flowing cape, in his hand he held out a perfectly full bloomed white rose. Graciously she extended her hand and took it, bringing it to her face to smell its sweet scent. Darien sucked in a silent breath as he admired the woman in front of him. He was so enthralled by her beauty he couldn’t take his eyes away from her. Suddenly the sounds of trumpets rang through the air startling them. Forgetting his manners he quickly introduced Sere to Prince Jedite before they entered the ball. Raye and Jedite heard their names being announced and squared their shoulders as they walked happily and calmly down the stairs. Sere was starting to get nervous and began fidgeting with her hair. Darien sensing her fear grabbed her hand with his and wrapped his other arm around her waist smiling. Looking up she saw his charming smile and blushed a healthy pink. With his arms around her she felt safe and comforted. Exhaling slowly she calmed her nerves and cleared her mind. They could here the announcer introducing them now. Removing his hands from her he offered her his arm. Smiling brightly at him she entwined her arm through his and the two walked gracefully and confidently down the grand stair case. The audience was silent as they stared at the remarkably enchanting couple. They looked so well together, complimenting each others features. Sere’s smile widened as she walked along the isle to where Darien’s mother Queen Gia was seated. Lifting the sides of her dress she curtseyed as Darien bowed. Soon the band began to play a slow romantic waltz. Offering his hand Sere slid hers atop his as did Raye and Jedite. The Princes and Princesses then started to dance with their respected partners around the majestic ball room. Sere kept smiling feeling as light as a feather. She felt like she was dancing on white fluffy clouds with the suns rays beating upon them. Darien returned her smile twirling her around as her dress lifted softly off the ground making a tornado of silk. Soon other dancers started to join in dancing freely with and around the entranced couple. Many other men and women wanted to dance with the prince and his princess, but it seemed they would never separate. Taking a short break from dancing Darien and Sere made their way to the food, his arm draped tightly around her waist, holding her close. Just then a lady with long auburn hair and red eyes stood in front of them. She sneered at Sere, a scowl crossing his pretty features. She then turned to look at the Prince trying to look as sexy and beautiful as possible. Darien rolled his eyes, Beryl. She was always trying to impress him showing off more then she should. “Hello Prince Darien, I was wondering if you could save me a dance for later?” Beryl whispered in a seductive tone. Sere stared wide eyed at the woman before her, jealous and outraged at her rudeness. As she spoke she noticed Darien tighten his grasp on her pulling her closer then she already was, making her smile underneath. ‘Too bad, he’s taken.’ Sere silently thought as she looked over the woman, “I’m sorry Beryl, but thankyou for the offer. All my dances are reserved for Princess Serenity.” Darien replied as politely as he could then walked passed her with Sere still in his arms. Suddenly beside them appeared Raye and Jedite as they joined them at the table. After eating a few sandwiches they left to go dance again but Raye stopped them. “Jedite, do you mind if I dance with my brother for this one?” Nodding his head understandingly he bowed to Sere. “Princess Serenity, would you do me the honor of this dance?” giggling slightly by his over dramatized act she accepted. Darien reluctantly let her go as she left with Jedite. Turning back to Raye he offered his hand and they began to dance. “What did you want to talk about Raye?” Darien politely asked. “Well...I wanted to talk about Sere.” Raye said as her eyes seeked over the crowd to find Jedite. “I think she’s a great person Dare and she would be good for you, as you are for her.” Looking at her brother his face was emotionless but showing a little shock. “In short Dare...go for her! She’s wonderful!” Dare then smiled warmly at his sister, happy to have her consent. “Gee, Raye you must really like her to approve of her. You're usually so picky about every girl I’ve talked to. Thank you though....So what’s with you and Jedite? You look pretty happy with him, hmmm.” Dare teased touching her nose. Blushing she slapped his hand away, “Well Sere’s a real sweet and honest person....and mind your own business” Darien raised an eyebrow cockily making her laugh. Then both their eyes searched for their intended. “I see Lady Beryl still has her eyes set on you.” Raye laughed as Dare rolled his eyes and maneuvered his way towards Sere and Jedite. “So Princess Serenity wh--” “No, please just Sere will do.” She promptly cut in. “Hmm, beautiful and modest? Interesting” Sere blushed at his comment and looked down. When she did look up though she saw his blue eyes fixed on someone. Turning around she followed his gaze to see Raye dancing with Dare. Sere smiled at Jedite who had a goofy drunken look on his face. “She’s beautiful isn’t she Jedite?” He simply nodded his head lazily as he continued to watch her. “You make a wonderful couple with her...” He once again nodded and Sere had to laugh out loud turning his attention back to her. He tilted his head a little confused. “It was nothing Jed don’t worry.” Sere said still giggling. Jedite got a mischievous gleam in his eye as he suddenly spun her out and then dipped her surprising her. The two started to laugh when someone tapped them on the shoulder. Turning their heads Dare and Raye smoothly switched partners so Raye was with Jedite and Sere was back with Dare. The remainder of the ball was pure bliss. As the last song ended Dare and Sere stared deep into each others eyes. Bending his neck he lowered himself to Sere as she stood on her toes closing her eyes. Finally his lips captured hers sending a shock of what seemed like electricity to shoot through their bodies. Deepening the kiss Dare wrapped his arms tightly around Sere’s slim waist as she wrapped her arms around his neck, playing with his soft hair making him tingle. Beryl watched with hateful eyes at the angel wrapped in Darien’s arms. She had angrily watched them dancing together the whole night and now she was seeing them kiss passionately. Suddenly an elderly looking man approached her and offered his hand in a dance. At first she just stared at him, not wanting to dance with any other except Darien. “I can help you win him if you like.” The man said in a low scratchy voice. Curiously she looked at him then extended her out her arm. To be continued..... Well how was it? I'm still new so comments, suggestions, flames are all welcome...actually I really don't like flames..so be nice about that, please? I would like to thank my two online sisters Violet Ice and Usakoo3000...Neo Queen Serenity..who made a site for my fanfics along with Moon Goddess so go check it out...http://ficmaze.cjb.net....and SailorTwin..my wonderful friend and editor..Thankyou soo much guys! I love you all! SmTwilight@aol.com