Loki left, her expression enigmatic; it was unclear whether she was angry or anticipating something.
Hestia wanted to say something but held back. Arthas rejecting Riveria Ljos Alf's offer was good… she'd been worried about them being alone together.
Now she didn't have to worry about Arthas being charmed by the elf. Her efforts seemed to be paying off; Arthas must be sensing her motherly aura.
After Loki left, Hestia thought this. Hephaestus sighed.
"You… Maintaining your pride is good, but sometimes, it pushes people away."
"Hestia didn't really humble herself before Loki. She made a request, and Loki agreed without much thought."
"I didn't reject Loki because of that."
Arthas shook his head.
"Why did you refuse? I know what happened—your public confession to Riveria Ljos Alf. It was a chance to be with her. Why refuse?"
"Pursuing someone I like through someone else's request makes me look weak."
Arthas said matter-of-factly, leaving Hephaestus speechless. Hestia, still in Arthas's arms, smiled happily.
He still sees me as a woman. My efforts are paying off! He must feel my motherly aura!
I have a chance to beat that elf; I'm the one spending time with Arthas.
Even if Riveria Ljos Alf holds a significant place in Arthas's heart, lack of contact will weaken that.
"Yes, I support Arthas! Pursue what you love!"
Hestia excitedly told Arthas, her meaning clear. Whether Arthas understood was another matter.
Seeing Hestia's overflowing affection, Hephaestus knew it was genuine.
Remembering her initial assumptions, Hephaestus felt guilty. She spoke slowly.
"I've changed my mind, Hestia. I'll make him a weapon."
Hestia's eyes widened; Hephaestus shrugged.
"This isn't because of your request, but a transaction. You'll pay."
"How much?"
"I'll know after I finish. It depends on the materials and the complexity."
Hephaestus cleared her throat.
"Be prepared. It'll be astronomical. Pay me back in ten years, a hundred… whatever it takes."
Hephaestus looked at Arthas, who hadn't spoken, raising an eyebrow.
"You won't refuse this, will you?"
Arthas didn't speak, but Hestia held his sleeve. Knowing what a weapon crafted by Hephaestus meant, she didn't want Arthas to refuse.
"I'm just wondering… how durable it will be. I don't want to pay a fortune for something that breaks easily."
"The quality is guaranteed. I'll make it myself. Staffs are different from swords, especially since that sword was made by my Familia members."
"As you say. I need a good staff. I accept the transaction."
Though not interested in weapons, Arthas couldn't refuse Hephaestus.
It was a kind gesture from a Goddess seeking to make amends. Refusal would be rude.
Hephaestus went to a wall rack.
Several polished hammers were displayed.
Though she'd shown Arthas her divine hammer, she couldn't use it without her divine power.
"Hestia, help. Consider it part of your debt."
Hephaestus put a simple hammer into her pouch.
She went to a crystal case, opened it, and selected mithril, a silver metal.
Mithril was perfect for a staff, enhancing magical power.
"It's an honor to see Hephaestus forge something again."
"Don't be surprised. Work!"
"Need my help?"
Seeing Hestia's enthusiasm, Arthas asked.
"No, you can go. Weapon forging isn't easy."
Hephaestus wanted to create a weapon that would leave Arthas speechless.
She pondered, reviewing her past works.
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