Which passage from "The Golden Apples" supports the central idea that the gods can sometimes be merciful? A. As the moon goddess studied the two proud lovers hunting in the woods and fields, she admired their strength and valor, and she decided to turn them into the animals they most resembled.

B. Atalanta watched the golden ball fly through the air; and she hesitated, wondering whether or not she should run after it. Just as she decided not to, Venus touched her heart, prompting her to abandon her course and rush after the glittering apple.

C. From then on, Atalanta and Hippomenes lived together as lions deep in the woods, and only the moon goddess could tame them.

D. The god Apollo agreed with Atalanta's choice to be alone. "You must never marry," he told her one day. "If you do, you will surely lose your own identity."