The timeless story of Odette begins on a moonlight night by an enchanted lake. The prince Siegfried must wed the next day, yet there is no one he loves. Distraught, he wanders to the nearby lake to watch the swans, aiming his hunting bow at one when it suddenly transforms into a pale maiden: the princess Odette. They fall instantly in love, and he begs her to return with him to announce their betrothal before the kingdom.

But an evil sorcerer overhears the lovers and casts a spell over his daughter Odile to resemble Odette. Siegfried sees her at the ball and vows to marry her, yet in a flash of lightening, Odile’s false face melts away! Despairing, Siegfried flees to find his true Odette, waiting in misery for him by the lake. Now never able to be his, Odette kisses her prince and throws herself into the dark waters. Without hesitation, Siegfried faithfully follows his love. Ever after, it is said that two swans can be seen gliding together across the lake, reminding us that love is unconquerable and endures beyond all power, time, and even life itself.