The defeat of Hera sent a shockwave through the divine pantheons. On Olympus, Zeus's rage was a physical storm.
In Portentia, the victory was celebrated. Their loyalty to their Silent King was now forged in fire.
Nox was not celebrating. He was in his throne room with Vexia, looking at the holographic map of the world.
"Your victory has bought us time," Vexia stated. "But it has also made us the center of the world's attention. The other pantheons are watching us."
"They're rivals," Nox said. "They're waiting to see who wins the fight between us and Olympus. They'll side with the victor."
"Precisely," Vexia agreed. "Which means our next move is critical. We cannot afford to sit here and wait."
"The dragon," Nox said, his finger tapping on the volcanic peaks to the east. "That's our next move. Another Royal Flag would double our authority."
"A sound strategic objective," Vexia conceded. "But a dragon is a formidable opponent. Even for you."
