Knowing he had but moments to save himself, Ryan knelt before the enraged queen. "Great and powerful Circe, I humbly beg your forgiveness. My intrusion was not intended - I had no idea I would end up here, though to meet you is my greatest dream."
"You dreamed of meeting one known for transforming foolish males into beasts?" Circe scoffed. "And what beast would you willingly become?"
"A powerful draft horse, able to pull your plows and wagons, or perhaps be honored to serve as your steed." Ryan did not look up, keeping his head bowed.
Circe was quiet a moment, and then asked curiously "You understand that a draft horse would not have your intelligence, and your memories would be vague if not forgotten. And a youth such as yourself would have but twenty years before old age claimed you. Do you still offer yourself willingly?"
Ryan trembled slightly - he had not thought of the loss of life span - but he nodded anyway. "Yes, great Queen."