Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, lived a princess whose name was Serenity. She was the king's most beautiful daughter, and had stolen the hearts of many of the kingdom's men. Every day she would receive gifts and treasures of many, who left them at her feet only to be taken away by her guards. Serenity had everything she wanted, yet she always felt empty inside. So in a quest to find her true happiness, she left the castle and headed into the woods, hoping to find what she's been looking for.

She ran and she ran passing town after town, settlement after settlement, and once her money ran out, she was forced to live out on the street. Many months passed, and her state deteriorated, only to leave her feeling neglected and regretful. So in complete hopelessness she hid, in a small corner in a dark alleyway, away from the world, praying that one day someone would come and save her.

Then, one fine day a young prince was riding his trusty steed in the town, his name was Mathias. Now Mathias was a fine looking lad, born into royalty, he always had a fascination and concern for the people in the kingdom and so took often rides through the town. But on this day, he passed the alleyway, when a soft sobbing tickled his ear. He paused, and approached the sound with great caution, only to find Princess Serenity weeping away. Her dress was tattered and torn, with dirt covering her entire body. He swiftly picked her up and before she knew it she was in the castle of Nottinghamshire.

That night, after washing up and cleaning herself, Serenity was invited to a grand ball held in the castle, where many aristocrats would be present. Just as she was about to go looking for her saviour, Prince Mathias walked into the door, and in one fell swoop she was swept off her feet by him. The usual graces of greeting and meeting occurred, followed by an invitation from Mathias to the ball. Serenity couldn't ask for more.

The ball was one of great grandeur, where gowns flowed and people drank their merry. However, Serenity felt out of place there and decided to take a break on the balcony. Mathias too, was growing bored and decided to observe the town of which he loves so much. They found each other on the balcony, and a small conversation started, soon they were talking as if they had known each other forever. Love at first sight, no doubt. But to keep it children friendly, I shall say that they kissed and in that moment, Serenity felt a connection so strong she knew he was the one. As did Mathias.

Their love for each other was magnificent, day upon glorious day would Mathias constantly outdo himself in showing his affection for her. Roses, Horses, Grand outings, quiet outings, you name it, he'd done it.

But alas, the villain in this tale would be Mathias's own brother, Thaddeus. Thaddeus had developed feelings of his own for Serenity after a casual horseback ride through the countryside. Despite just wanting friendship, Serenity couldn't help it but be charmed by Thaddeus's ways. His sweet disposition made him come across as someone who cared more for her than Mathias ever could, by not using material things to win her over; he secured her fondness and was adamant on having her for himself. So quietly they met, behind Mathias's back, in the night for a walk in the maze, or on the seaside where no one would find them.

Upon confronting Thaddeus, Mathias learned and understood the gravity of the situation. He sent for Thaddeus to be locked up in the dungeon, only to be confronted by Serenity. Being a man of honour, Mathias questioned Serenity's faithfulness to him which led to a heated argument with Mathias leaving and vowing never to return unless Serenity thought about whom her heart belonged to…

I shall end my tale here. The rest of it can be left up to your imagination to ponder. Let's just say that yes, there is a happy ending and everyone lived happily ever after, but it not be what you think.

Sleep tight kiddos!