Roy
Location: Hephaestus' home at the Forge. Who: Hephaestus and Asklepios Scene: Hephaestus swallows his pride and admits he needs help from the God of Medicines.
Thomas
Hephaestus let out a low, pained groan as he forced his weary eyes to slowly open. The searing pain of the flareup that had robbed him of the last few days was thankfully subsiding. Now it was just the deep ache that hit his his body like rolls of thunder and bolts of lightning that caused him to flinch and grit his teeth. Despite the urge to curl up and Hephaestus pushed himself upright, biting his lip against the pain that radiated from his leg and back. With a frustrated grunt, he managed to get upright as he tried to catch his breath.

For what seemed like an eternity, he had endured the pain in stoic silence, refusing to show any sign of weakness. After all, he was the god of the forge, the master craftsman... He couldn't let them see him in such a vulnerable state. He knew that any shred of dignity he still possessed would be mercilessly stripped away if Ares were to discover just how bad it had truly become. Every day was a battle to maintain his composure and hide his suffering from those around him.

Hephaestus was well aware that he couldn't let his daughter, Callie, see him in such a state. She was thankfully away at the moment, which gave him at least a day to try and weather the worst of it in bed. He didn't want to worry her any more than she already did. After all, Callie was a devoted daughter who went above and beyond to take care of her father. He couldn't ask for a better child. And yet, Hephaestus couldn't shake off the guilt of being a burden on her. The thought weighed heavily on his heart as he lay in bed, surrounded by darkness and pain. But even in his weakened state, he couldn't deny how lucky he was to have such a caring daughter by his side.

But as much as he tried to gloss over and ignore he, he couldn't deny it any more- the pain was getting worse, and the flareups were becoming harder to manage. Deep down, he knew he couldn't manage it on his own anymore. Hephaestus knew he couldn't keep up the facade any longer.

It was time to admit that he needed help. He was exhausted from pretending, tired of hiding his agony behind a mask of strength. It was time to turn to his friend for assistance. He would have to swallow his pride and make the call he had been avoiding for so long- he needed Asklepios' help.

Hephaestus closed his eyes and tried to relax, gritting his teeth as another wave of pain hit him as he managed to drag himself out of the bed finally. It was definitely going to be a day of little productive work getting done at the forge. And with a resigned sigh, he picked up the seldom-used phone from the table by the bed and sent a text message off, one that should have been sent a long time ago really. With that finally done, all that was left for Hephaestus to do was wait.

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Samantha
Asklepios stood in the low light of his study, his hands methodically arranging the necessary medical supplies into an old, worn leather doctor's briefcase. The briefcase, scuffed and stained from years of service, held an assortment of bandages, herbs, vials of pain relief concoctions, and instruments essential for any medical emergency. Once satisfied with his packing, he slipped a smoking pipe into his coat pocket, its bowl still warm from earlier use, and headed out the door.

The journey to Hephaestus' forge was a quiet one, filled with a mixture of anticipation and concern. As he approached the familiar, smoke-filled workshop, the scent of molten metal and burning coal filled the air, reminding Asklepios of the many times he had made this trip under similar circumstances. He hadn't heard from his old friend in a while, so he was excited to see him. But he knew in his heart this was not a social call as much as it was a call for help. Hephaestus had always been stubborn when it came to this sort of thing. Why the man thought he needed to act invulnerable all the time was not something Asklepios understood.

Upon arrival, Asklepios greeted Hephaestus with a warm but concerned expression. "Hephaestus, my old friend, it's good to see you, though I wish it were under better circumstances," He said, placing a hand on his shoulder, his voice a mix of relief and frustration. He swiftly closed the distance between them, his concern deepening as he took in the paleness of Hephaestus' face. "Why did you wait so long to call me? You know you shouldn't bear this alone."

Without waiting for an answer, Asklepios proceeded to check Hephaestus' vitals, his experienced hands moving efficiently. He felt his friend's pulse, noting the rapid beat that spoke of pain and stress, and checked his temperature with a practiced touch to his forehead. "Tell me everything that's bothering you," He urged, his tone insistent as he looked into Hephaestus' weary eyes, seeking the truth beyond the physical symptoms.

Asklepios would listen intently, nodding occasionally as he rummaged through his briefcase. His fingers found the familiar shape of a medicine bottle, and he pulled it out, checking the label before setting it aside. Each item he selected was chosen with care, intended to ease pain and bring some comfort to his old friend. The frustration lingered in his mind, but his primary focus was on alleviating the suffering before him. "I'll fix you right up," He said, adding, "Many of these herbs and concoctions come from my own garden. Tell me, how is your daughter?"
Thomas
Hephaestus sighed deeply as Asklepios tended to him, his broad shoulders slumping a little more as the façade fell in the presence of his old friend. He shook his head ruefully, a dry laugh escaping as he watched Asklepios work. "You're right, of course old friend. I should have called you sooner. I didn't want to be a burden. But the pain has grown unbearable. My joints ache something fierce, especially my back and this leg."

He gestured to the brace on his right leg with the familiar and resigned look of simple acceptance. " But I kept hoping the pain would fade on its own, as it usually does. Well the flare up at least, the chronic pain has become sort of an uneasy bedfellow after all this time. But you know me, not wanting to make a fuss or cause anyone any problems. I am sure you have enough keeping you busy without this broken body calling you way..." 

Asklepios continued his examination, his skilled hands moving deftly over Hephaestus's back and limbs, murmuring to himself as he poked and prodded. He winced as Asklepios found the particularly tender spot along his back. "The flare-ups have been getting worse" He finally admitted. "It started as a dull ache in the leg a few weeks ago. I thought it was just from standing at the forge too long when my back started locking up a bit more than usual. Tried taking it a little easier, but it's gotten worse... The worst are the damned headaches that have started up recently. The pounding and dizziness keeps me out of the forge more than I care to admit when the flareups hit."

A strained smirk showed on the forge master's face as he looked at his friend. "Guess I kinda failed on those instructions last time huh? What were they... 'Regular restoration, not just crisis management- the goal is to keep the flare-ups from worsening.' Guess that was one lesson this old dog hasn't learned yet" Hephaestus said with an apologetic laugh as he remembered the last time he had called on Asklepios. Had it really been that long?

Hephaestus watched as Asklepios set out an assortment of vials and bottles and pouches. His skills with herbs and medicines were legendary and his ability to care for body and the mind as well. Hephaestus recalled with an almost fond smile how it was Asklepios who had helped him fashion what would be the first of many leg braces he would design and use over the millennia. How it had been his friend's support and encouragement way back when that had helped him not get bogged down in the mire of self-pity. From the very first time he had ever called on Asklepios for his help, he had been there. And that was something the forge god would always be grateful for.

His attention was drawn back from his memories, at the questions about Callie. A rare genuine smile crossed his worn face at the thought of his beloved daughter. "Callie has been a true blessing Asklepios," He said, the smile still firmly in place. "She has breathed new life into this forge and into me, as only a daughter can. Sadly she is away for a few days, but perhaps that is for the best... I feel she would be quite displeased with me at the moment if she were here" He said with a somewhat sheepish look, knowing just how big of an understatement that was. "But I trust you will be able to meet her soon enough."

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Samantha
Asklepios stood with a calm demeanor, observing his old friend Hephaestus. He watched his movements with the trained gaze of a physician. With a soft, empathetic smile, he said, "You're not a burden, you know that," His voice a soothing balm, adding, "It's always better to address these things before they get out of hand. You're not exactly in a line of work that is easy on the body. Especially at your age." With practiced ease, Asklepios laid out his tools—a mix of ancient instruments and bottles filled with various concoctions, all meticulously arranged. He started the examination by palpating gently along Hephaestus's limbs, his touch precise and calculated, seeking out the origins of pain. As his hands moved deftly over twisted muscles and swollen joints, he murmured softly to himself, noting areas that required special attention. Listening attentively, Asklepios responded to Hephaestus's description of his symptoms with nods and brief notes. "We'll manage these symptoms," He reassured, selecting a vial from his collection. "And we'll work on those preventive measures. Regular restoration, remember? It's not just about managing crises." His movements were fluid as he mixed herbs, grinding them with a mortar and pestle. The scent of lavender and chamomile filled the air, creating a calming atmosphere. "Let's focus on easing the flare-ups and improving your overall comfort," He said, applying a poultice to the inflamed areas. His touch was gentle, each movement meant to alleviate pain without causing further distress.

Asklepios then shifted the conversation to a lighter note. "And how is Callie?" He inquired, his interest piqued as he prepared another remedy. His hands were steady, his attention split between his task and Hephaestus's response. Smiling at the mention of Callie, he added, "I look forward to meeting her. It sounds like she's taken after her father in spirit and talent." He sealed the bottle he was working with and set it aside. The session continued with Asklepios guiding Hephaestus through a series of gentle stretches designed to alleviate tension and improve mobility. "These exercises will help," He advised, demonstrating each movement. "Try to do them daily if you can." As he assisted Hephaestus in performing the stretches, Asklepios watched to see where his range of motion was at, his hands guiding and correcting positions gently. "Good, that's perfect," He encouraged, a satisfied nod accompanying his words.

"Drink this. It will help with inflammation," He said, hanging him a vial of purple liquid. It wouldn't taste very good, but relief would be instant. As the therapy session drew to a close, and Asklepios began to pack away his instruments and medications. "Thanks for trusting me with your care," He said warmly, meeting Hephaestus's gaze with a look of deep understanding and concern. "Remember, I'm here whenever you need, just a call away." Asklepios handed him a small packet of herbs. "Take these. They should help with the pain and inflammation," He instructed.

When he was finished he took up a seat and dabbed at his forehead with a handkerchief. "I can't wait to meet her."
Thomas
Hephaestus sat as his friend worked, following his instructions and listening to his directions, all the while marveling yet again at how skilled his friend truly was at his craft. It was no surprise to the forge master, he had long called on his friend in the early days for this sort of thing. And as Asklepios worked, tending to the worst of the aches and pains, Hephaestus found himself wondering just why he HAD waited for so long to admit he needed help.

"I know I've been a fool, putting it off for this long" Hephaestus admitted as he slowly worked through the stretches and exercises his friend led him through. "You know my pride is hard and you yourself have said many times my stubbornness knows no bounds. I do apologize. I do not want it to seem that my reluctance to reach out is at all a slight to you my friend. You've always been a trusted friend and ally and I am truly grateful for everything, back then, and now" He said with a small nod towards his friend. 

Deep down Hephaestus knew why he had grown so reluctant to reach out. The years of judgement, ridicule, abuse... But he knew Asklepios was different. His friend had always been a rare source of kindness and grace, never treating him like just the forge master everyone came to for their crafting needs. In this world of deception and manipulation, Asklepios stood out as one of the few who remained true and steadfast. Unlike many of his divine kin, Asklepios never deceived or manipulated - a rare trait among the gods nowadays.. And he deserved better.

Deep down Hephaestus knew the main reason why he had stopped reaching out- to Asklepios, to most anyone else really. The feeling of emptiness and heaviness only seemed to worsen with the passing of time. Everything with Zeus and Hera, a loveless marriage, betrayal after betrayal with Ares and Aphrodite, being one of the few in Olympus with no heirs, and an identity tied so strongly to the forge that it was pretty much the only thing people saw him as...

It had gotten to be a lot, enough to make the light of the forge master start to dwindle. But in the past few years, something had changed. He had found a new source of joy and comfort, a new breath of life, of fresh air had come, one that he never thought he would experience. His daughter, Callie, had come into his life, and with her had brought a new sense of purpose and belonging. 

"I never thought I'd have a daughter like Callie," Hephaestus chuckled to Asklepios as the god worked on his sore muscles. "She's an incredible blacksmith, just like her old man." "You must be proud," Asklepios replied as he finished up, giving his friend a small smile. "I am," Hephaestus nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "But it's not just her talent that makes me proud. It's her kind and gentle spirit. She's been through a lot as a demigod, but she never let it taint her heart. It is such a rare thing..." Hephaestus said with a sigh as he closed his eyes. "But I'm grateful that so many are showing her love and acceptance, that she's getting a better experience than I did. It's made all the difference I think in her adapting to this new life."

He couldn't imagine his life without her now, and it filled him with both fear and joy. "I never thought I would ever have a family, after everything with Aphrodite... Let alone one that I couldn't bear to lose. Callie coming into my life has turned everything upside down.. In the best possible way. I would have it no other way honestly. We have had our moments of head-butting, she definitely has her old man's stubbornness and the sharp whit and smarts of her mother" Hephaestus said with a fond smile. "With everything going on, the war and everything else, it is nice to be reminded that there are good things in the world still, that there is still something good worth fighting for, worth protecting, worth living for. It's been... A nice change of focus" He confessed with a smile.

Hephaestus looked at his friend as he finished and sat down and gave Asklepios a genuine appreciative smile. 

Hephaestus smiled warmly at his friend, grateful for the healing touch and kind words. The pains of his body had subsided under Asklepios' ministrations and even the deeper hurts of his spirit felt less overwhelming and less suffocating as well. It brought him comfort to speak so openly of his daughter Callie, the surprising joy who had entered his life when he thought all capacity for love was burned away.

"I hope you will be able to meet her next time you come by to check on my stubborn ass" Hephaestus said with a knowing smile. "Hopefully sooner rather than later."

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Samantha
Asklepios wrapped up his work, having tended to the worst of Hephaestus' aches and pains. The god of medicine then gently eased himself down into an adjoining seat, retrieving a well-worn wooden pipe from his pocket. He filled the bowl with fragrant herbs, struck a flame, and began to puff thoughtfully, the sweet smelling smoke curling into the air. As he settled, his gaze was calm and observant. "I appreciate your words, Hephaestus," Asklepios responded after a long, thoughtful draw from his pipe. "And no apology needed; we all have our paths to walk, our burdens to bear." His voice was soothing, carrying a timbre of wisdom and patience; he was a deity who had seen much suffering and had offered much relief. Asklepios took another slow puff from his pipe, his eyes narrowing slightly now as he contemplated. The smoke seemed to mirror his thoughts, drifting and opaque. "The war among our kin is troubling, and news does reach my ears though I try to remain apart from their conflicts," He began, his voice bearing a hint of sorrow. "Zeus remains ever the thunderer, seeking dominion and asserting his will across the realms. His strategies are bold, often reckless, drawing many into the fray. It is difficult not to ultimately blame Poseidon for this mess, though. Hades remains neutral, but we will see how long that lasts." He paused, considering his next words carefully. "He's been consolidating power within the underworld, fortifying his domain against potential threats. There's a quiet calculation to his actions, a stark contrast to his brother's bluster." Asklepios' gaze drifted off, as if peering into unseen depths.

The healer sighed softly, setting his pipe aside. "It is a chessboard, and we are in a storm of moves and countermoves. It concerns me, the impact all this will have on the mortal realm—on those who have no shelter from the whims of gods." Asklepios' eyes met Hephaestus' then, a shared understanding passing between them. "But let us not dwell too deeply on what we cannot control. Tell me more about your daughter, Callie. It's heartening to hear of new joy found amidst old ruins." With a smile, he leaned forward and offered his pipe to Hephaestus, saying, "I grew these herbs myself. They will help settle your nerves and put your mind at ease. At our age, that is a blessing, especially in these difficult times. I tell you, I worry about what kind of world we're leaving behind for your daughter and my sister, Aurora. She is too good for this world."
Thomas
Hephaestus leaned in, his ears perking up as his good friend spoke. With each nod of his head, he showed that he was listening intently to the words spoken with a heavy heart. They both knew that the ego-measuring contest had taken hold of everyone, even those who wanted nothing to do with it. The weight of it all hung heavy in the air between them, as if the very gods themselves were struggling under its burden.

"The divine realm has become a cauldron of unrest, bubbling with the constant clashes between Zeus and Poseidon, their feud never-ending. And lurking on the fringes is Hades, the unpredictable wildcard in this endless game of power. Countless wars have ravaged our realm, but this one feels different. This time, I fear that it may be the final blow to the already tenuous balance we have managed to hold onto for so long. But this time, I fear... I feel that this war may finally be the tipping point that upset the already strained balance." 

Hephaestus gazed at Asklepios, his old friend who shared his weariness of the ongoing conflict. They both knew how it had torn families and friendships apart, and how it forced people to take sides. But they also shared the belief that the whole thing was senseless, with neither side holding a moral high ground. The weight of this understanding hung heavy between them, like a thick fog that refused to lift. Yet, despite the heaviness, there was also a glimmer of hope - that one day, the conflict would end and they could all come together as one again.

"You know well that if I had it my way I would never find myself caught in the middle of my uncle's conflicts. My loyalty to Zeus is strenuous at best but it is there. Of the sides in this conflict, I still feel he is the lesser of the evils, which truly is not saying much. But this war... More so than most I can recall, it is taking its toll on us all," He said as he ran his fingers along the etchings of the cane in his hands.

"I can't help but wonder... How much longer will it go on? Will Olympus ever know peace again?" The lines on his weathered face deepened slightly. These questions plagued him day and night as he continued to forge weapons for the gods' endless battles, trying not to think to what end most of them would be used for.

"The war has been dragging on forever. I can't see an end in sight. Remember when the gods were a united front? Now look at them, bickering and divided. It breaks my heart... This place used to be my sanctuary. The walls filled with tools and weapons, the smell of burning metal... It was my haven. But even here, the war has seeped in. My inventions, meant for creation, have been twisted and turned into weapons for this endless conflict." 

He paused, a slightly sad look crossing his face. Gratefully he took the offered pipe, taking a few slow puffs as he tried to calm his mind and still "But I can't stop creating. It's who I am. And in this chaos, it's the one thing that brings me peace, working on something new, designing and creating, spending time here in the forge with Callie... It is one of the few things the fates have granted me as a blessing" He said with a small genuine smile as he looked at his dear friend and took another few puffs from the pipe before handing it back. "It truly is the young ones today who offer the best hope for a future better than what we are giving them today" Hephaestus said with a small nod as he looked around the forge. "Being able to share this place with others again... Callie, Arsenio, Alastor, Aurora, Hestia... It's nice to not feel quite so alone for once."

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