In a forest by a lake, a mother searches for her lost child. 

Baron Von Rothbart, an ancient magician suffering under an evil curse, looks up at the moon. He is tormented by memories of his past life and long-dead family, remembering what it was like to play with his daughter. Due to the curse, he has outlived his loved ones and now takes out his wrath on others. He begins to sing. Von Rothbart’s magical song draws many children to him. He pauses when he sees Odile, a little girl that reminds him of his daughter. This one he spares, choosing instead to raise her as his own. The mother continues to search for her child, only to make a horrific discovery. Rothbart has transformed the children into swans!