Eric waited, terrified, listening for Circe's approach. He was afraid to leave the room in case she saw him. His only chance was a surprise attack.
After about ten minutes, he began to think she had gone out for a while. Then he heard footsteps. Raising the knife, he tensed and prepared to leap as the door opened. A familiar robe came into view, and he launched himsefl at her,intent on burying the knife in her chest. Except that the figure coming in was a young girl, maybe 16. Not Circe.
He twisted in mid-attack, stumbling and falling to the floor as he lost his balance. The girl shrieked and ran back intot he other room, but before Eric could get up he found himself frozen in place.
Circe was standing there, a slight smile on her lips. "I am so glad that you spared my young servant. Becaase of that, I will spare your life. In fact, your ability to attack so ferociously and still control your rage makes you a perfect guard for me."
She smiled wider and crouched down to stroke Eric's face. "Yes, I think you will make a wonderful..."