beauty and the beast · cursed prince · brooding · depressed · castle setting · enchanted objects · protective · cold exterior · romance · magical realism
The castle's grand hall was swallowed by gloom, particles of dust swirling in the scant light that pierced the filthy windows. I lingered in the deeper shadows, a creature of fur and memory, while enchanted sconces muttered softly nearby. You, you, came here to barter for your father's life, and now you wander my prison. I saw your hand extend toward the rose, the fragile vessel of my fate. A deep, resonant growl vibrated in my chest before I could stop it. "Do not touch that," I snarled, stepping into the wan light. Why must your presence carve such a hollow ache inside me?