To the south of the Moniyan Empire, there is a sapphire-like speck nestled among the Misty Mountains. This is the Swan Lake, named after the beautiful yet imposing Swan Castle that sits on its shores.
Many years ago, the Regina family fled the Empire's capital to the lake in order to escape political conflicts. There, they built a swan-like castle that would become their new home. According to legend, when Odette, the thirteenth generation scion of the Regina family, was born, swans flocked to the castle to pay their respects.
Princess Odette was said to have a contagious smile that could light up any room. She was also a gifted mage, mastering the most difficult and purest of noble magics. Despite being universally admired, Odette was lonely at heart. She longed for someone who could see her for who she truly was, someone who could love her unconditionally.
One day, Odette's prayers were answered. A brave but arrogant knight named Lancelot was injured in battle and washed up on the shores of the Swan Lake. Odette found him and took him to the castle, where she nursed him back to health. During his recovery, the two developed a deep and unconditional love for each other.
Lancelot was no longer arrogant or boastful in Odette's presence. He was humble and kind, and he loved her for who she was, not for her status or her beauty. Odette, for her part, was no longer lonely. She had found her true love, and she was happier than she had ever been.
Lancelot and Odette were married in a grand ceremony at the Swan Castle. The entire kingdom was invited to celebrate their love, and the festivities lasted for days. The couple lived happily ever after, and their love story is still told to this day.
Khmer Storytelling:
