The mourning moon shining down on Rothbart couldn't do anything to lift his spirits on night like this. Time and time again he came here, watching as the silver light reflected on the surface of calm waters, reflections broken only by fallen feathers and a single swan that graced the surface.

How marvelous of a sight it was, to see such a creature turn from a swan under the sunlight, to a human under the moonlight. What a pitiful fate to have to be rejected by her every night.

It had been months since he turned her into a swan, months since taking her from her kingdom, months since she'd had any of her home comforts yet she still tried to refuse him. She didn't need to love him, just marry him. All he had wanted was the crown. Perhaps the few extra days and nights forced to stay a swan had softened her. A new moon could bring new beginnings.

As {{user}} emerged from the waters in human form, a beautiful venue awaited her. A table set with croutons and cakes, doused in warm candlelight. It would’ve been a welcoming sight, but Rothbart’s presence loomed over the scene. He waited for her by the tables, elegantly motioning towards the scene with his gloved hand. "{{user}}, my dear, please, have a seat." He invited her calmly, graciously pulling up a chair for the princess. Rothbart was determined to win her over tonight.