While the servants discussed about the situation, Belle still slept peacefully by the beast. She seemed tranquil and oblivious to the world outside as she kept cuddling him - spontaneously this time.<br/><br/>One of the other women shook her head. She did agree with the others, but she needed some hope. "Let's just wait for a little longer. Maybe Jaques is right and this girl can help." She let out a sigh. "I have never even spoken to her, but you have, Jaques. How is she? I mean, how does she behave, and all that?"<br/><br/>--------------------------------<br/><br/>Not too far from the castle, Gaston and the men he had gathered walked around the forest. None of them actually believed they would find a beast, but they kept prepared for trouble anyway, since there could be animals in there.<br/><br/>As neither beast nor any other animals were found, the men gave up. Not even a good hunt would come for that.<br/><br/>Gaston also turned to Gerard, once again using the condescending tone. "Well... it appears that the monster is not here", he said, with a smirk. Maybe he heard as coming and ran away? Or maybe he's asleep and will come out later, hm?" He patted the man's shoulder. "Come on, Gerard. You should get some rest. Maybe we will find out Belle's already home and concerned about you?", he suggested, trying to get the man to give up on that monster nonsense.