Averak had his hands behind his back.
His eyes calmly watched the chaos unfold.
Next to him, standing tall and composed, was Krovath.
His slit-eyes glowed faintly as he watched the battlefield with cold interest.
Neither moved.
Neither needed to.
Krovath broke the silence first. "Your heroes have grown stronger."
Averak nodded. "And your brood has become more… refined."
Krovath gave a soft chuckle. "Refined? That's a kind word. I would say… more adapted. Survival forces evolution."
Averak looked to Hextor and Varnus, who were defending Hiera.
"War forces discipline. Training builds order. That is our way."
Krovath tilted his head slightly. "Yet both paths lead to the same thing."
Averak responded, "Power."
They stood quietly again as Seraine clashed blades with Quavira in a flash of light.
Then Averak spoke again.
"The balance has changed. I can see it. Your commanders push harder. Their limits have shifted."
Krovath gave a short nod.
