In the hall of Circe, ominous birds choked the rafters and nipped at the heels of the doves that once gathered, forcing them out whenever they could. Vultures hanged over the room, awaiting the orders, the signal to feast.

They complain as Kratos enters, files in hand.

The vultures howl and chortle in agreeance.

In Circe's hand, was her wand.

Kratos holds out his hand and Circe looks it over, seriously considering handing it over, but she can't.

Handing it over means giving up her magic. Giving up the only thing keeping her grounded. She didn't mean to misuse it. She just wanted people to be happy.

She just.......

She was going to make the best horse this universe has ever seen.

First she made one that could dance and sing.

But still he wouldn't smile.

Fine fine, maybe a fighter! One with legs strong enough to kick an attacker half a mile! She made such a horse (with maybe a tiny bit less kicking power!!!)

But still he wouldn't smile.

Maybe two heads! Or three! Actually, lets start at two!!!! It was a medical marvel! Both could eat and drink, no issue!

But still he wouldn't smile.

She changed plans. He was a smart guy, so he must have wanted a smart horse! Solving basic math problems, no way! She made a horse that would solve equations that boggle even her mind!

But he still wouldn't smile.

A smarter horse, that's just what she needed! She needed a smarter horse! Horses couldn't do what you or I could do, she thought. She just needed a horse with such a mind-

-And she knew where to start.

Kratos nods.

Kratos takes off, vultures celebrating for his disappearance.

Circe wallows thinking over all the lies she just told, knowing that Kratos believed them all.

What would He do?