The Swan Princess & The Swan Princess 2

Chapter Three

(THIRD PERSON POV)

Far across the kingdom of Liversteam and Kurtley, beyond the Enchanted Castle there was a large mountain. Inside that mountain was a deep, well hidden cave. The cave held many small alcoves, dips and creatures who roamed the Earth at night. 

Living inside the cave was a older woman. Not the kind you'd find in old wives tales, a middle aged woman would be the best description. Her hair still had body and style, but grey peppered her roots. Where a smile once stood, was a furrowed brow.

Her name, was Zelda. Named after her great grandmother who was a poor farmer's daughter. No one of consequence but had a heart of gold. Zelda grew up similar to her family roots. Poor, desperate and often seeking her next meal. That was until she discovered The Forbidden Arts. A deep and dark magic only the most powerful witches and warlocks could possess. 

Rupert, her tutor in the Forbidden Arts was one of those dark wizards. Creating his own magic from them; The power to create, change and destroy. Taking notes as the two evil sorcerers began to tamper with the balance of nature wit dark magic. 

Three separate attempts,  each powerful magic it's own spell. However, just as the two evil sorcerers were finishing the power to destroy, King Wilhelm encountered and heard of dark magic being spread about by Rupert and sought him out. Destroying all evidence and notes...unaware that Zelda made copies of the notes all on her own.....

(Alivia's POV)

Grant and I had been on separate terms since our discussion by the stream. As a matter of fact, it was the only time I approved of Festival Days. For Eugenia, Emma and Roger's idea to have the festival include more booths, more competitions and more food, it allowed me excuses to avoid Grant and any awkward conversations or looks the two of us may have had. 

Which is how I found myself and Emma out in the villages signing up people for the new booths for Festival Days. Emma and I dressed more casual than normal which was a relief. I don't think I could have handled any sort of fancy ballgown or tiara today. Once again I was plagued with a nightmare of myself as a swan, trapped.

Emma was wearing a beautiful brown dress with a deep maroon apron, with a matching head bandana. I was wearing a dark blue dress with a light brown vest, my hair up in a nice braid. 

Emma and I rode our horses into the first town, and immediately went to the booths Brandin and Roger had previously requested the villages to prepare so we could immediately set to work, already there was a line. 

"Good morning, everyone!" I called out, gathering the crowds attention. Everyone went quiet as a church mouse, eager to hear of the new Festival Days changes. 

"The Duchess of Liversteam, Emma and myself are here to take names of all those who wish to be involved at Festival Days and those who may wish to simply sign up for the booths. Please, make two separate lines and we will establish together what you all so desire!" Cheers and happiness spread throughout the village and we were quick at work.

"Hello, Your Majesty my name is Daniel, the bakers eldest son and I would like to enter in the baking contest." I smiled and quickly wrote down his name. 

"What will you be cooking Daniel? I'd love to stop by the baking booth and try some while I am around!" Daniel's face lit up, I could tell that this was a 'prove yourself' moment to your father. Grant often told me if his father had lived, he would have loved to prove how good a swordsman he was.

"A pumpkin puddin', my Queen." I couldn't help but remember how good pumpkin was, especially in the fall weather.

"That sounds delicious! I will look for your pudding, Daniel. I will try not to be biased to the other chefs thought. I know you will excel." Daniel smiled and quickly ran to his father to tell him that 'The Queen couldn't wait to try his pudding.