"Leave this matter to me," Hephaestus declared decisively. "It would be a waste to let such an exceptional child be sacrificed by Ishtar."
"If she doesn't appreciate what she has, then it's time to relinquish 'ownership' of that child. Other Familias could really benefit from someone with such special talents."
With a wave of her hand, Goddess Hephaestus determined Sanjō Haruhime's future. Her immense power gave her the confidence to take charge.
Before Yami joined her Familia, even if Hephaestus knew about something like this, she might have ignored it due to the risks involved. Whether it was winning over Sanjō Haruhime or leaking the news, the Hephaestus Familia was indeed the most powerful artisan Familia, but their strength was still insufficient compared to exploration Familias. Therefore, the most sensible approach was to make money peacefully and avoid making enemies.
However, everything changed with Yami's arrival. His strength emboldened Hephaestus, allowing her to interfere in matters she would have avoided before, even if it meant opposing other Familias. After all, in this world, the one with the biggest fist controls the narrative. Given the resources the Familia now possesses, no matter how many enemies they make, it seems they will face no major problems.
Even formerly hostile gods might temporarily set aside their differences if something piqued their interest. And with Hephaestus's Familia now possessing the "key" to another world, they are fully equipped to handle such situations.
"Poor Goddess Ishtar," Yami commented with a hint of pity. "She finally saw a glimmer of hope to defeat Freya's Familia, only to have it crushed by you, Hephaestus, in an instant. It must be hard to see hope slip away like that~"
A faint smile of compassion appeared on Yami's face, but Hephaestus responded with a sharp glance.
"It's better if you, the instigator, keep those sarcastic remarks to yourself," she retorted. "If you hadn't brought this to my attention, I wouldn't have discovered that child's unique nature, so maybe you should wipe that smirk off your face!"
"Oh? Was it that obvious? I guess my acting skills need work~" Yami replied, completely unfazed by Hephaestus's direct observation of his true intentions.
In fact, even if Ishtar found out about this, Yami wouldn't feel the slightest tension or fear. Such practices are common among Familias—if you like someone, you take them in, provided you're strong enough. This is almost an unspoken rule in Orario. Thus, no matter how underhanded Apollo's methods were before, the gods would only complain quietly and wouldn't intervene.
The leak of Sanjō Haruhime's existence is undoubtedly the catalyst for conflict. At that point, all capable Familias wouldn't hesitate to get involved. The likely outcome is that Ishtar will be forced to reluctantly hand over Haruhime after suffering a humiliating defeat.
However, from Hephaestus's current tone, it's clear she has no intention of competing for Haruhime. She simply doesn't want such a talented child to be sacrificed, so she's providing her a way out. As for what happens next, it will depend on Haruhime's own luck.
"Well, I'll leave these matters to you," Yami said with a sincere expression, "but if you encounter any trouble, don't forget to tell me. I'll always be your most reliable support, Hephaestus."
His genuine words took Hephaestus slightly by surprise, and a strange smile spread across her face.
"Normally, those words should come from me as the main god, but now the roles are reversed. It's a bit disorienting." she remarked. "But I'll remember what you said today. If I need help, I won't hesitate to ask."
Given the close relationship between Yami and Hephaestus, there was no need for formalities.
"By the way, there's something else I need to tell you," Hephaestus added. "I've researched electronic devices suitable for Orario, based on technology from Rin World. By incorporating various materials, magic stone fragments, and magic, I've finally succeeded. After extensive testing, the devices are stable and functional."
"Maybe we can start selling them soon!"
Yami was initially surprised by Hephaestus's announcement but quickly regained his composure. Considering the goddess's expertise, it wasn't shocking that she could create something so advanced, even in Orario, where divine power was sealed. Combining her knowledge and experience, it wasn't difficult for her to craft electronic devices, even something like a mobile phone.
This development also brought certain plans closer to fruition.
"That's fantastic! Pass this technology to the blacksmiths in our Familia as soon as possible and begin mass production," Yami suggested. "If you need anything, let me know—I can even pull a production line from another world. Also, we need to keep this production technology a secret for now. This is the key to our Familia's success. If it's leaked, it can't be now."
Listening to Yami's advice, Hephaestus smiled and nodded.
"Don't worry, I understand. I'll have the children learn the production process right away. This will make it easier for you to introduce your plan here, won't it?"
Hephaestus's words aligned perfectly with Yami's plans. Agreeing to accept Ouranos's commission wasn't just about the difficulty of refusal but also about the benefits it offered. With the strong backing of the Adventurers' Guild, any new product could quickly circulate throughout the city. Yami had no intention of passing up this golden promotional opportunity.