Chapter 84: Planetary Barrier, God's Descent III

Rhea's garden was a silent sanctuary, shielded from the rest of the bustling floating city.

Ancient trees, their trunks twisted with age, formed a natural wall around the clearing, providing privacy for those who sought solace within its boundaries.

Soft, golden rays of sunlight filtered through the foliage, casting gentle patterns of light and shadow across the stone path leading to Rhea's meditation spot.

At the center, Rhea sat cross-legged on a smooth stone, her eyes closed in deep concentration, her chest rising and falling in a steady rhythm.

Dressed in white robes that shimmered with divine light, Rhea's presence radiated an overwhelming sense of authority and calm.

Her long silver hair fell in a cascade down her back, a stark contrast to the vibrant greens and browns of the natural world surrounding her.

Her breathing was slow and measured, perfectly in sync with the soft rustle of the wind.

The divine energy swirling around her was palpable, dense with power yet perfectly controlled, forming an invisible barrier that kept the chaos of the outside world at bay.

As Sister Ye appeared beside her, a ripple of divine energy disturbed the tranquil atmosphere, Rhea's opened her eyes immediately, and knelt on one knee and smiled at Sister Ye, her flawless face filled with respect, "Goddess Ye, how can I help you."

Sister Ye walked gracefully towards Rhea, her steps light and silent on the stone path, as though the air itself made way for her presence.

She waved her hand gently, lifting Rhea up from her kneeling position. "I told you before, there's no need for this every time you see me. Formalities aren't my concern, just call me Sister Ye."

Rhea rose, her silver eyes flickering with the same respect but softened by the familiarity.

"Force of habit," she replied, a small, knowing smile playing on her lips. However, the smile faded when she saw the look in Sister Ye's eyes.

"It's time," Sister Ye said softly, her words carrying the weight of urgency.

Rhea's expression turned serious as she tilted her head slightly. "Nightmare Gods again?" she sighed, her voice exasperated but focused. "How many times is this now? Eight? He's a persistent bastard."

Sister Ye nodded, her face hardening. "This time it's different. He's bringing reinforcements—five True Gods. Brother Chen has already confirmed it."

"We have no choice but to initiate Stage One: Planetary Barrier protocol, there will be backup from our side that's on its way, and there should be enough True Gods to fight the Nightmare Gods."

Rhea inhaled sharply, her eyes narrowing. "Five True Gods?" Her gaze drifted skyward, the weight of the situation settling on her like a storm cloud.

"That's no small number, even for us. If they break through, we will be at risk. Not to mention the demi-gods that always swarm after them like carrion."

"They fear the Divine Spirit Tree," Sister Ye responded, her voice cold and deliberate.

"They know if it evolves to the True God level, they'll lose any chance of gaining a foothold here without triggering a full-scale war."

Rhea shook her head slowly. "They're cornered, desperate. They'd risk everything for even a slim chance. But," she clenched her fists, "we won't give them that chance. Not while I'm here."

Sister Ye's lips curled into a soft smile. "That's the Rhea I know. You're so close to becoming a True God yourself. Once the Divine Spirit Tree connects with the Eternal God Tree, you'll have that power in your grasp."

Rhea stood, her white robes flowing like liquid light as she moved, her eyes determined and unwavering. "Let them come."

Blue Star's time may seem short, but with our combined strength and their support, the Nightmare Gods will not prevail."

The demigods exchanged glances, the tension easing as Rhea's words sank in.

The mention of divine reinforcements stirred hope in their hearts, tempering the fear that had crept in at the mention of the Nightmare Gods.

Rhea turned her gaze toward one of the divine projections before her—a figure with sharp, chiseled features and eyes that glowed with a steady, deep-blue light.

His presence radiated calm intellect, a stark contrast to the fiery energy of the others.

"Neros," Rhea called, her voice cutting through the lingering silence. "How long do you think it will take to erect the Planetary Barrier?"

Neros straightened, his voice calm but deliberate as he replied, "With the current alignment of the moons and other satellites surrounding Blue Star, we can use them to construct a barrier encompassing the entire planet.

The celestial patterns are favorable, which means it won't take more than a month to finish the necessary preparations." He paused, his glowing eyes narrowing slightly in thought.

"However, the energy required to maintain such a barrier will be substantial—beyond what we usually allocate for planetary defense."

Rhea nodded, her expression unfazed. "Don't worry about the energy. Sister Ye said she will handle that.

Her control over the Divine Spirit Tree will provide more than enough power to sustain the barrier."

Neros bowed slightly, acknowledging her words, his projection flickering slightly as he processed the new plan.

"Understood, Caption. With the energy concern resolved, the barrier shall be ready in time for the arrival of our reinforcements."

Satisfied with Neros' report, Rhea turned her attention to the rest of the assembled projections.

"As for the rest of you," she commanded, her voice steady and full of authority, "return to your respective positions."

"Finish the preparations for war and ensure that your defenses are airtight. We will face this threat head-on, but we cannot afford any weaknesses in our formation."

The projections of the demigods bowed low in acknowledgment, the weight of their duty pressing down on them, yet bolstered by Rhea's confidence.

Her words had reignited their resolve.

Rhea's gaze swept across them one final time. "And keep me updated on the progress. Any sign of unusual activity from the Nightmare Gods or from the scraps that escaped before, no matter how small, must be reported immediately. We cannot afford surprises."

"Yes, Lady Rhea," the projections responded in unison before vanishing one by one, each returning to their designated regions to prepare for the looming battle.

The great hall grew quiet once more, with only the towering statues of gods standing as silent witnesses to the conversation that had taken place.

Rhea remained seated on her throne, her silver eyes glowing with a quiet determination. She closed her eyes, allowing herself a brief moment of reflection.

Two months. That was all the time they had to ensure everything was ready.

With a deep breath, Rhea stood from the throne, her form shimmering briefly as she disappeared from the hall, ready to begin her own preparations for the war to come.