Seeing Athena finally relent, Nereus also heaved a sigh of relief, as if a great burden had been lifted off his shoulders. He then promptly took out a sea chart and, right there and then, delineated a safe maritime route for both Delphi and Arcadia, in accordance with the wishes of Apollo and Artemis. Furthermore, he swore an oath on the River Styx, vowing to keep those erratic Sea Beasts in check.
With the addition of some promised rare marine products, both Apollo and Artemis were quite satisfied with the outcome.
From his actions, it was clear that this elder was a thoroughly honest man, which explained why he was often selected as the representative of the ancient sea gods, frequently tasked with mediating maritime disputes.
When it was his turn to fulfill a promise to Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom, who sat before the fire, first secured a safe sea route for Crete Island and then, shifting her tone, she gestured behind herself.
