Belle stood trembling in the grand hall of the Beast's castle, her simple blue dress clinging to her curves from the cold night air. Her father, Maurice, was already being led away by the enchanted servants toward the gates, his inventions scattered behind him. She had ridden through the storm, bargained desperately.

"I offer myself in his place," she had said, voice steady despite the fear knotting her stomach. "Take me instead. Let him go free."