Belle

Belle is a strong woman who believes in love and the goodness inside of everyone. Her story parallels the traditional story of Beauty and the Beast; however, Belle is braver than the previous depictions. Rumplestiltskin is the Beast and he was summoned to save Belle's father's kingdom with magic, magic that comes with a price. The price is Belle, who he wants for her cleaning services, of course. Their romance is only just beginning when it is cut short by a single kiss. Rumplestiltskin's curse begins to break and in a moment of panic he drives her away, believing that her absence will make no difference. This creates an interesting dynamic where Rumplestiltskin must choose between Belle and his son. If he chooses Belle, he will not have the power to find his son, but if he chooses his son, he will lose Belle. Belle is captured by Regina, who hopes to use her against Rumplestiltskin. Killian also tracks her down hoping to kill her or use her to kill Rumplestiltskin. Regina triumphantly announces that Belle is dead and Rumplestiltskin gives up on his hopes of love.