Still admiring all the detailing work put into the miniature under the strong combined moonlight, Zelos lets himself chuckle before he lowers the carving again, offering a smirk to replace the big, open grin from earlier. Something a little more guarded and controlled. It comes easier than he'd expected when Zelos looks back to notice that Lloyd is blushing, actually, and that's both curious and amusing all in its own right. Why would he be blushing? "I think I'll take you up on that. Wouldn't want this to get lost or anything, right?" he replies, shrugging.

Then he snorts. "A blacksmith that also does woodcarving. You're a man of many talents, huh?" Zelos says, head tilted to the side, smirk now accompanied by a playful squint. He laughs. "Well, I can't say I blame you for wanting to recreate an Aegis sword. It is pretty awesome. Especially mine."

He's still got the carving in both hands as he speaks, gloved fingers wandering about the details. This is... bizarre, in all honesty--sure, Zelos is no stranger to being showered in gifts and praise for being who and what he is, but there's something different in this one that feels a tad intoxicating in the way Lloyd plays coy and the care put into the gift itself. It feels innocent, in a way. The realization softens his expression somewhat, and he looks back down at the carving before it can fully show in his face. "Thanks, though," he mutters as casually as he possibly can. "This is so well made. Have you been watching my sword during fights?"