23. Hestia's worries

Hestia Familia Home – Late Night

The room was quiet.

Orcbolg sat at the table, sharpening his sword.

Hestia watched him from her bed.

He had already cleaned his armor, checked his equipment, and now—he was preparing again.

Like always.

Like he never stopped.

She pulled her blanket tighter around herself.

He never let himself rest.

And it worried her.

A Conversation in the Dark

"Do you ever stop?" Hestia asked.

Orcbolg didn't look up.

"I stop when the job is done."

Hestia frowned.

"You don't even know what the job is anymore."

His hand paused on the blade.

"...I do."

Hestia sat up, crossing her arms.

"Then tell me."

Silence.

She leaned closer.

"You came to Orario to kill goblins. But you know they're not a threat here."

More silence.

"You've been an adventurer for months. You're stronger than before, but you still act like you're fighting alone."

She looked into his eyes.

"You don't even know why you're fighting anymore, do you?"

The Weight He Carries

Orcbolg's grip tightened on his sword.

He didn't answer.

But Hestia knew she was right.

She softened her tone.

"You're not in that world anymore. You don't have to be like this."

She reached out, touching his arm.

"You have me. You have a home. You don't have to keep carrying everything alone."

Orcbolg exhaled slowly.

Then—

"I know."

It was quiet. Almost too quiet.

But to Hestia—it was enough.

For now.

Hestia Familia Home – Late Night

The candle flickered weakly, casting long shadows on the walls.

Orcbolg sat on the floor, his back leaning against the bed.

Hestia was already lying down, watching him with soft but tired eyes.

"You're staying up again?" she asked.

"I don't need much sleep," he replied.

Hestia sighed.

"You always say that."

She scooted over, patting the empty space beside her.

"Then at least lie down. Just this once."

Orcbolg hesitated.

Then—wordlessly, he moved.

Hestia rolled onto her side, facing him.

"You're impossible," she muttered.

He didn't respond.

But… he also didn't move away.

And soon—sleep claimed them both.

Morning

The room was warm.

Soft breathing filled the air.

Orcbolg's eyes opened.

Something was wrapped around him.

He turned his head slightly—

And found Hestia clinging to his arm, hugging him in her sleep.

Her face was peaceful, resting against his shoulder.

Her grip was firm.

She felt safe.

Orcbolg stared for a moment.

Then, instead of moving—

He simply closed his eyes again.

And let her be.