Limitless Ascension:The System Chosen-Chapter 19: Hammer and Fire, Jokes and Sparks

The morning air in Orario carried the faint scent of smoke and steel as Ethan followed Hestia through the winding streets, deeper into a district he hadn't seen before. It was quieter here—less flashy than the bustling marketplaces near Babel—but still alive with the rhythmic clang of metal striking metal.

"She's just up ahead," Hestia said, walking with a bit more pep in her step than usual.

"Your blacksmith friend?" Ethan asked.

She nodded. "Yeah. She's... rough around the edges, but she's one of the best. Been working alone since she left her Familia."

As they turned the corner, a large forge came into view. It was built into the side of a stone building, with heat shimmering from the chimney. The name was simple and carved into a wooden sign:

"Ira's Forge"

Ethan barely had time to take it in before a booming voice rang out.

"Well, well, if it isn't Little Hestia!"

From the forge emerged a tall, muscular woman with wild dark red hair tied back into a messy braid. Her eyes were sharp, and her apron was blackened with soot. She wiped her hands on a cloth and smirked.

"Been a while, shorty."

"I'm not short!" Hestia barked back instantly, puffing her cheeks.

The woman laughed heartily, then turned her gaze to Ethan. Her eyes briefly scanned him—down his arms, over his chest, and back to his face.

"Damn. Where'd you find this one? Kid looks like he wrestled minotaurs for breakfast."

Ethan blinked. "...Thanks?"

She walked up, planting her fists on her hips. "Hey, you. You sure you wanna stick around with her? You look like you could use a real woman watching your back."

Hestia flailed. "Hey! He's mine! Don't go trying to steal him!"

Ethan scratched his cheek awkwardly. "Uh... I think I'm good where I am."

The woman burst into laughter. "Relax, I'm just messing with you."

She extended a hand. "Name's Ira. Ex-Hephaestus Familia. Now I run solo and craft for a few old friends. Hestia's one of the few I still owe a favor to."

"Ethan," he said, shaking her hand. Her grip was firm—strong, like iron.

"Alright, muscles. Let's see what you're working with." She gestured for him to follow her into the forge.

Inside, the walls were lined with weapons and armor of all shapes and sizes. Unlike the market junk, these looked solid, clean, and balanced. Ira led him to a bench, pulled out a few wrapped bundles, and began laying out options.

"This is what I've got ready. Nothing custom yet, but these should suit you for your level."

Ethan's eyes widened as she unwrapped a light breastplate with reinforced plates, a pair of leather vambraces, and a dagger that gleamed with bluish steel.

"These look... amazing," he said.

"Of course they do," Ira smirked. "I don't make garbage."

After trying the gear on and testing the dagger's balance, Ethan nodded in satisfaction.

"I'll take them."

Hestia beamed. "You look good! And now you're better protected, too!"

"Still gonna charge you a little," Ira added with a shrug. "Favors don't keep the forge burning."

"I've got some valis saved," Ethan said.

Ira glanced between them, her eyes twinkling with amusement. "You two make a cute pair. Don't let those big Familia folks come sniffing around and steal him, Hestia."

Hestia crossed her arms. "I won't let them."

Ethan grinned. "You two really act like old friends."

"We are," Hestia said with a soft smile. "She helped me out back when nobody else would."

Ira ruffled her hair. "You were stubborn as hell even back then."

As they finished up, Ethan looked out the forge's front window toward the crowded streets. He remembered something from the anime.

Bell had a supporter named Lili, didn't he?

He frowned slightly.

I'll need one eventually. Hauling loot back on my own is a pain—and dangerous.

He turned to Hestia. "Hey... Do you know how someone usually finds a porter?"

She blinked. "Hmm? You thinking of getting one already?"

"Not now," Ethan said. "Just curious. I know I'll need help sooner or later."

"I'll ask around," Hestia offered. "But don't rush it. You're doing great on your own for now."

He nodded. Still... it'd be nice if I could find Lili. She should be around somewhere, right?

As they left the forge, Ira waved them off. "Come back anytime, Muscles. And keep an eye on her—she's trouble."

"Hey!" Hestia shouted.

Ethan just laughed.

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