[It is plain by his bemused expression that he understands not why she asks such a question, whose answer seems to him self-evident.]

Almighty Zeus chose lame-footed Hephaestus to receive fair Aphrodite for his bride for he rules as king of the gods, and thus it falls upon his shoulders to settle divine disputes. This seemed to him the justest course, as none's breast would rankle with jealousy for the misshapen god of the forge.