We're hunting leopards and we're not scared

She watched the gears turn and change as he thought about what she said, about what plan he might take. Her ears perked when finally the words left his eager lips. Bait. Light brows furrowed as she saw instantly where he was going. She allowed him to continue, noting that he didn’t quite come out and say what or who would play this part. ”Are you suggesting your Empress should be used as bait?” Belle questioned him harshly. He really was doing his best to impress her. Or test her trust in him.

”If this is the path you wish to take, so be it.” She muttered confidently, her eyes never leaving his as he dared her to take this chance on him and his plan. She took a deep breath, allowed herself one more glance at her beloved servant and turned to go take her place as bait. This was one of the larger trees in the territory, it would make one of her wolves a good den. She stood unabashed before it, her eyes searching for the leopard, but being unable to catch sight of him. She knew he was there, she could feel his eyes on her.

Slowly Belle backed away from the tree, ready for the cat to spring upon her at any moment. She tried to remain calm, and nonchalant. Her hackles remained smoothed however fast her heart was beating.