Ever After

Present day framing: the Brothers Grimm are invited to the Grande Dame, who expresses disappointment in their Cinderella version. She produces a portrait and a glass slipper and recounts the partial true story that inspired the tale. This framing sets Danielle's history as the real core of the narrative.

Ten years after Auguste de Barbarac's death, Danielle is forced to serve Baroness Rodmilla de Ghent and her two daughters. She endures constant cruelty and class oppression while quietly helping others when she can. Her resilience and kindness shape the heart of the story.

One morning, Danielle encounters Prince Henry while he is fleeing an arranged marriage to Princess Gabriella. He gives her 20 francs to keep their brief interlude secret. The moment foreshadows a forbidden bond between a servant and a prince.

Danielle disguises herself as a noblewoman to go to the palace and buy back Maurice, who Rodmilla has sold. Henry sees her arguing with the jailer and is impressed by her passion and intelligence, and orders the jailer to release Maurice. This act deepens their connection and trust.

King Francis announces a masquerade ball at which Henry will declare his engagement at midnight, or the king will marry Gabriella. Rodmilla presses Marguerite to catch Henry's attention, while Danielle secretly grows closer to Henry. The gala becomes a turning point for their relationship.

Rodmilla and Marguerite plot to steal Nicole's wedding gown and glass slippers so Marguerite can wear them at the ball. Danielle confronts Marguerite and is attacked; Marguerite retaliates by burning Auguste's gift to Danielle. Jacqueline shows sympathy toward Danielle, criticizing Marguerite's cruelty.

During a library outing with Henry, a gang of gypsies ambushes them. The gypsies reluctantly offer to help after Danielle speaks up. At the gypsy camp, Danielle and Henry share their first kiss, solidifying their bond.

Rodmilla locks Danielle in the pantry when she refuses to reveal the slippers and dress. Gustave arranges for Leonardo to help Danielle escape in Nicole's attire. Leonardo, Gustave, Paulette and Louise prepare Danielle for the ruse to reach Henry.

Danielle arrives at the ball dressed as Nicole to tell Henry the truth. Rodmilla exposes her identity, and Henry rejects her in his anger. Danielle flees in tears, and Leonardo overhears the moment, leaving behind a single glass slipper.

Henry agrees to marry Gabriella, but at the ceremony he realizes someone else whom he loves is present and halts the wedding. Maurice and Jacqueline inform him that Rodmilla sold Danielle to Pierre Le Pieu after the ball. He resolves to find Danielle and set things right.

Henry and Laurent set off to rescue Danielle, only to discover she has freed herself. Henry apologizes and declares his love, then attempts to seal it by fitting the glass slipper onto Danielle's foot. The moment confirms their bond and seals their future together.

The royal court summons Rodmilla, Marguerite and Jacqueline, exposing their deception. Rodmilla and Marguerite are publicly condemned and stripped of their titles, facing exile unless someone speaks for them. Danielle intercedes with mercy, showing them a chance at reintegration rather than harsh punishment.

Danielle and Henry build a university as a lasting symbol of learning and progress. The institution endures for centuries, though many parts are destroyed during the French Revolution; Leonardo's portrait of Danielle survives as a cherished relic in the Grande Dame's collection. The tale ends with the idea that they lived and left a lasting imprint on history.