chapter 1 the witches in the rose garden

the beast stood in his rose garden, the overwhelming scent of new blossom making him slightly dizzy. his garden always seemed to have a life of it's own, as if the twisting thorny vines could wrap themselves round his racing heart and put an end to his anxiety. there were times when he wished they would, but now his mind was filled with images of the beautiful young woman inside his castle: belle, so brave and noble - willing to take her father's place as a prisoner in the castle dungeon. what sort of woman would do that - give up her life so easily, sacrificing her freedom for her father's?the beast wondered if he was capable of such a sacrifice.he wondered if he was capable of love.

THE END