A pause. Even the Supreme God acknowledged the danger. "…may be too powerful an enemy for the mortal to face."
Novella's chest tightened. "My lord… then she will die."
He did not deny it. He did not confirm it. Because both were possible. Instead, he lifted the mug again. Looked into its dark depths. Then spoke. "If she seeks more power…" A slow pause. "…and if she continues to offer devotion."
Another sip. Another moment of thought. "…I may reconsider."
Novella's eyes widened slightly. Hope. Dangerous hope. He continued calmly. "Power must be earned." Not given. Not freely. Not without proof.
"If she prays." If she offers. If she proves herself worthy. "…I may grant her something."
A pause. Something ancient. Something divine. "…to fight what is coming."
Novella lowered herself fully. Forehead touching the luminous floor. "Understood, my lord." She would not interfere. She would not warn. But she would watch.
