"Find a scapegoat?" Nathaniel asked.

He looked confused. He didn't understand what Cynthia meant. "Could you explain what you mean, Mother?"

"Think about it. If your enemies are too powerful to deal with, why not let the royal gods from the Hall of Gods handle them?" Cynthia explained.

She smiled slyly and added, "Your brothers, for example. Or any other thorns in your side."

Nathaniel perked up, and a glint of understanding flashed in his eyes.

"That's brilliant, Mother. I see it now."

H