The castle was bustling with people coming in and out in preparation for the royal ball planned by Queen Uberta. She was planning a surprise ball for Derek and Odette's 3-year anniversary. Uberta couldn't resist holding a ball and a 3-year wedding anniversary was the perfect excuse for planning a ball. Queen Uberta assigned Rodgers to help her plan for the ball and she left Bromley in charge of distracting Derek and Odette while the planning was going on. Everyone knew that it was not love at first sight with Derek and Odette. In fact they disliked each other for years until that day they were in the ballroom and realized they loved each other.

Derek and Odette were outside by Swan Lake with Bromley. Bromley was trying to distract them from going into their castle by showing off his 'improved' archery skills.

"Brom, you're doing it wrong still," said Derek looking bored and apologetic towards Odette that she had to watch this.

"Derek, why don't you show him the correct way, " Odette kindly said. Odette was rarely upset or frustrated with others. She inherited her father's kindness.

"Odette, I've been showing him the proper technique since we were kids. If he doesn't have it by now, he's never going to get it."

"Derek…"

"Alright. You win… as usual." Derek got up to go help Bromley. Odette was left to sit with Jean-Bob, Speed, and Puffin. Odette had suspicions about why Bromley was trying to entertain them and she thought Jean-Bob, Speed and Puffin might have a clue as to why.

"Alright you three, why are Derek and I being kept out here?"

Puffin and Speed looked at each other and then they both looked at Jean-Bob who was trying to keep his mouth shut. Jean-Bob put his hands over his mouth and held on tight. Puffin tried to change the subject. "Princess, why don't we go for a walk over there by the…ummm…"

"You do know something! What is going on in the castle?" Odette was determined to find out.

This time Speed gave a try, "There's nothing going on. It's just such a nice day…"

"Not you too Speed." Odette looked to Jean-Bob and saw how hard he was trying to keep his mouth shut. "Jean-Bob, maybe you could tell me…for a kiss?" Jean-Bob looked straight up at Odette with wide eyes. It didn't work the first time, but Jean-Bob was always trying to get a second kiss with Odette.

"Hold it in Jean-Bob!" yelled Puffin.

But Jean-Bob couldn't help himself and spluttered, "Ze Queen iz throwing a zurprize ball for you and Derek!" Jean-Bob huffed and puffed from the effort it took for him to hold the secret in that long.

"A ball!? Why is Uberta throwing us a ball?"

"Ah Princess, it is for you and Derek's 3rd anniversary. She wanted a reason to throw a ball and she saw your anniversary as the perfect excuse."

"Well that is so kind of her, but we all know how much Derek loves balls…" Odette replied sarcastically.

"I'd still leave it as a surprise for the Prince if I were you," suggested Speed.

"Maybe you're right. I wouldn't want to ruin the surprise for Uberta either." Suddenly Rodgers was walking towards the group.

"Your Majesties, and…Bromley, could you please follow me back to the castle?"

"Rodgers, what's going on? You're acting…stranger than usual," replied Derek.

"Oh it's just your mother has come into town and wishes to speak with you. I wouldn't keep her waiting if I were you." Rodgers was proud of the come back he made on the spot.

"You're definitely right about that Rodgers, I do not want to keep my mother waiting. Odette? Are you ready to go back?"

"Absolutely. Maybe dinner will be ready." Odette winked at her friends as she walked over to Derek. She knew what was coming, but Derek had no clue.

As the Prince and Princess left the lake, someone was watching them from the bushes. He had been waiting for them to leave the area so he could come out. He snickered to himself and said, "Yes, go back Princess and have fun with your Prince…while you can."