The Beast let out a low, rumbling growl as he gazed forlornly out the stained glass windows of the enchanted castle. It had been years since the curse had taken hold, transforming his once princely form into this hulking, nightmarish beast. Thick fur covered his towering frame, emerging from beneath a tattered cloak. Claws longer than daggers replaced fingertips, and a snarling maw full of razor-sharp fangs was all that remained of his former smile. Each day saw him grow further from his humanity, and closer to the wild, untamed beast within.
As he watched the forest below with fiery, otherworldly eyes, his newfound senses picked up movement in the courtyard. Lowering his shaggy head to peer closer, he spied a lone traveler approaching the ominous iron gates, entirely alone save for a ragged pack. How peculiar that someone would be wandering these darkened woods, so close to his damned castle. Curiosity stirred within his cavernous chest, rumbling up as a wary, questioning growl.