Chapter 88

Chapter 88
Chapter 88: Never Mind The Heir, I’ll Focus On Healing

Extraction.

It proved an immensely favored pursuit among leisure-seekers.

A crisp impact paired with guaranteed payouts!

The allure ran so deep that specific participants would abandon all other life paths solely to track down mineral veins.

Beyond that, within the virtual space, minerals held a vital function.

They served as constant staples for foundational craftwork, while properly refined iron fetched steep valuations in the trading system.

Essential for forging protective gear and blades alike.

Minerals even facilitated the restoration of equipment that had shattered or exhausted its durability limits.

This very factor explained why novices, upon pushing their gathering rank to a certain threshold, would invariably gravitate toward the underground tunnels.

Though the operational tempo lagged behind herb gathering, persistent occupation guaranteed tangible returns.

Additionally, the nature of the mines meant there was no necessity to roam extensively, which conveniently cut down on tedious wandering.

Consequently, back when Lion required funds during the early progression phases, he too would descend into the shafts for intensive isolation… or rather, isolated shaft conditioning.

Yet.

That applied purely to a gaming environment, failing to translate seamlessly into physical reality.

Wielding a heavy miner’s wedge demands substantial physical endurance and technical proficiency.

Little wonder actual industrial operations rely on pneumatic drills!

Thus, despite Lion possessing a high-tier gathering proficiency, he lacked the finesse to expertly handle a traditional mallet tool.

Reflecting on the matter, he had previously assumed pickaxes were meant to be swung with brute force given their rugged aesthetic, whereas they actually called for remarkably delicate control.

‘Should I classify this as another facet of their appeal?’

The requirement for precise handling despite the rough exterior!

Naturally, that charm was perceived exclusively by Lion.

Tick!

『You have acquired Luminous Ore Powder.』

* Luminous mineral that failed extraction and degraded into dust.
* It has entered a state where its value as a luminous specimen is entirely lost.

“Hmm.”

As anticipated, perfection remains elusive right from the outset.

Lion pursed his lips while inspecting the fractured mineral fragments.

Quarry work undoubtedly surpassed herb collection in sheer difficulty.

It appeared entirely justified that the ability unlocked strictly at Proficiency Rank 1.

Still.

“It is fine. Countless veins remain available.”

Lion deposited the powdered residue into his inventory and marched directly toward a fresh deposit of luminous material.

Herbalism had hardly been a guaranteed success from day one either.

Countless instances involved severing roots entirely—much like Freya’s clumsy attempts—or crushing vital foliage through careless tugging, did they not?

‘Achieving mastery instantly would indeed be miraculous.’

Buoyed by resolute conviction, Lion reclaimed his striking tool.

He then brought it down once more against the untouched deposit.

Clang!

『You have acquired Luminous Ore Powder.』

Another misfire.

Clang!

『You have acquired Luminous Ore Powder.』

Despite consecutive setbacks, a faint smirk touched Lion’s features.

Reviewing the scattered piles of failed dust, clear evidence of progressive adaptation emerged.

Furthermore, the physical exertion felt noticeably reduced compared to his initial attempts.

“Hoo.”

Success appeared to be drawing closer by degrees.

“Now, steady focus.”

Crossing his stance, he meticulously aligned the striking angle to ensure a precise impact before executing the motion.

Clang!

He swung the wedge, brushing away loose topsoil and minor pebbles surrounding the deposit.

It marked the cleanest and most efficient posture he had assumed thus far!

The underlying mineral formation embedded within the stone fissure grew distinct.

“Hoo.”

Naturally, clearing away the surface dirt demanded a distinctly different tier of effort.

The accumulated shock from successive impacts left his forearms and lower back tingling.

‘Had I not equipped the travel garments, my spine would surely have fractured.’

The apparel tailored by Andrie absorbed virtually all the kinetic feedback generated by the striking tool.

Consequently, he managed the quarrying work safely while absorbing only minimal strain.

At any rate, after repeating the process a few more times, all extraneous debris fell away, fully exposing the raw luminous core.

『 Acquired Luminous Ore Raw Stone. 』

* The proportion of standard rock remains higher than the luminous mineral.
* Would further refinement yield superior results?

An unrefined specimen, distinct from mere powder.

It represented a modest triumph secured following repeated trials.

“Splendid, this is the proper procedure.”

My cognitive processing speed is undeniably rapid.

The techniques and insights falling into place within my mind integrate directly into physical memory.

It truly constituted a learning capacity befitting Gathering Proficiency Rank 1.

『 Gathering Types Available: Ore Veins and Poisonous Herbs are added. 』

Failing to reach Rank 1 proficiency might have forced a regretful retreat.

“Credit is also due to Mudu and Andrie.”

Absent Mudu’s equipment kit or Andrie’s protective attire, personal injury might well have replaced progress.

Clink!

Lion laid aside the heavy striking tool and retrieved a hammer and a pointed chisel.

The subsequent phase involved chipping away remaining dirt and matrix rock adhering to the mineral core.

Technically, he could have transported the piece as-is and transferred it to Mudu, but having initiated the task, he preferred absolute completion.

Such stubborn thoroughness remained characteristic of Lion.

‘Prioritizing enjoyment over sheer efficiency.’

“Still, practicing on a secondary fragment is warranted.”

Lion sifted through the accumulated heaps of mineral powder.

Among them lay several pieces substantial enough to serve as practice subjects.

“Every component retains a purpose.”

Lion positioned the chisel against a dirt-encrusted section and administered a gentle tap with the mallet.

Then…

*Crackle!*

“…”

Despite applying maximum caution, the luminous mineral shattered instantly without resistance.

The outcome indicated that the material possessed a softer composition than anticipated.

“Phew. Initiating immediate work on the prime specimen would have proved disastrous.”

Lion conducted several dry runs to develop a proper tactile feel before retrieving a pristine raw stone.

Handling such a delicate item induced involuntary nervous tension.

‘Even so, the sensation is hardly unpleasant.’

Could this not be described as a delightful flutter of excitement?

Perhaps influenced by the ambient thermal springs, Lion’s complexion flushed crimson.

While unorthodox to outside observers, Lion viewed the endeavor akin to receiving a novel plaything.

Naturally… standard individuals might struggle to comprehend the sentiment.

Provided personal enjoyment is achieved, does any other factor matter?

Holding his breath, Lion delicately positioned the chisel once more and tapped with supreme care.

Tap, tap. Tap.

Even minor fractures proved surprisingly devastating to the stone matrix.

The dynamic mirrored water droplets eventually cleaving massive boulders in half.

*Crack…*

At a critical threshold, the mineral split open cleanly like a ripened melon.

Lion brushed away the dislodged debris using a specialized hand broom.

Fortunately, only the waste rock sheared off cleanly without any loss of the valuable core.

Repeating the action slightly further. Tap, tap. Followed by meticulous edge cleanup…

『 Acquired Hot Spring Luminous Ore (★)! 』

* Flowing tears have evaporated over time, ultimately crystallizing into stone.
* Carrying the item enables normal vision retention even while submerged underwater.
* Consumption or utilization through specialized procedures elevates affinity with Beastfolk races.
* Extraction restricted to skilled practitioners.

『 Uses: Alchemy, Beast Taming, Cooking 』

『☞ Click to view the recipe. 』

“Accomplished!”

Clutching the luminous mineral in his palm, Lion savored a deep wave of personal satisfaction!

This exact tactile feedback. This emotional resonance!

Moreover, aided by his specialized gear, a rare star rating had narrowly attached itself to the yield.

“Hmm?”

Lion re-examined the descriptive prompt.

“Can this be utilized directly?”

While his professional analytical gaze previously revealed solely ‘ingestion’ parameters, alternate application methods had now manifested.

Lion glanced alternately toward the flame herbs scattered nearby and the luminous mineral, his eyes gleaming brightly.

A brilliant concept sparked across his consciousness!

“Uncertain regarding beastfolk affinity… yet perhaps…”

He sensed the potential to concoct a genuinely impressive creation.

“Very well. Proceeding forward!”

Lion grasped his pickaxe once more, leisurely quarrying luminous deposits throughout the thermal spring cavern until complete exhaustion set in.

He persisted until his travel garments—boasting exceptional water-repellent qualities—were thoroughly saturated with hot spring moisture!

“…Young Master?”

Ultimately, Elvia, who had completed perimeter patrols multiple times, intervened, unable to watch any longer.

Continuing unchecked would surely induce a severe cold or frost-related affliction.

“Initiating our return appears the wisest course.”

“Ah.”

Only then did Lion secure the final luminous specimen and stretch his aching spine.

*Crack!*

“Oh dear.”

Muscular discomfort flared, likely stemming from prolonged forward bending.

Though his painstakingly accumulated stamina pool felt halved once more, Lion maintained a radiant grin.

“Has the hour grown this late? Having slipped away covertly, prompt return is advisable.”

Securing his bulging pack, Lion stepped up beside Elvia.

“Accordingly, we depart.”

At the advisory instruction to close his eyes momentarily, Lion complied.

“Beep.”

Nature mirrored Lion’s actions, shutting her eyes in unison.

“You may open them now.”

Gradually lifting his eyelids following the brief transition…

They materialized within Bydantis Castle.

‘Truly marvelous.’

While impractical for continental traverses, short-distance transit permitted instantaneous spatial relocation of this caliber.

Presumably, a comparable technique facilitated the abduction of Freya from Mimir Forest previously.

Had long-distance teleportation been viable, he surely would have utilized Elvia’s assistance rather than relying on a standard warp gate.

After all, the accompanying motion sickness proved utterly atrocious.

After changing into fresh garments and accepting a drying towel, Lion collapsed onto the mattress.

Having concluded his unconventional aquatic excursion, heavy drowsiness washed over him instantly.

“Sufficient hours remain prior to the evening meal, so ensure you rest.”

“Appreciated.”

Lion slowly shut his eyes and plunged directly into deep slumber.

Skipping the evening meal entirely.

Hours later, the dead of night enveloped the halls.

“…”

Lion’s eyes snapped wide open as he transitioned instantly to a seated posture.

‘What hour has it reached?’

Consulting the timepiece in the dim illumination revealed that midnight had already passed.

Apparently, Elvia chose not to disturb his unusually profound sleep cycle.

Consequently, Lion achieved full restorative rest and awakened completely refreshed.

His lower back stiffness had likewise vanished entirely.

Therefore…

Hunger struck with absolute intensity.

Ferociously so. Furthermore, a specific culinary craving dominated his thoughts.

Namely…

‘Ramen.’

The perilous nature of instant noodles lies in their persistent mental occupation once invoked, lingering until prepared and consumed.

Besides, what delicacy surpasses a hot bowl of convenience noodles following prolonged aquatic recreation!

‘Resistance is impossible.’

Lion bounded upward from the bed.

“…”

Nature, drifting peacefully within dreamland, rolled off Lion’s midsection and blinked open her eyes in bewilderment.

“Nature.”

“Peep…”

Encountering Lion’s distinctly serious expression, the chick tilted its head as though questioning the sudden intensity.

For an avian infant, its emotional range remained remarkably expressive.

“We depart.”

Gathering Nature, Lion stealthily exited the chamber and directed his steps toward the kitchen facilities.

Given Bydantis Castle’s sparse domestic staff, the culinary quarters naturally remained unoccupied at dawn.

The atmosphere felt shadowy and desolate… yet proved entirely acceptable.

Lion retrieved several luminous mineral pieces, arranging them strategically about the room.

Consequently, a soft, ambient glow illuminated the space—a thoroughly ideal setup.

Such subtle brightness guaranteed zero unwanted attention.

“Splendid.”

Instinctively rummaging through the pantry provisions, Lion gathered necessary cooking components.

Determined to dine properly, he even secured eggs and scallions.

Yet, an observer might ponder whether the most crucial ingredient remained absent.

Specifically, the noodles themselves.

Naturally, commercial instant ramen possessed no existence within this reality.

Fried, pre-processed noodles could hardly manifest naturally in such a world.

However, did this limitation imply impossibility?

Decidedly not.

“At the very least, a close approximation remains achievable.”

Lion retrieved spaghetti noodles, representing the closest culinary relative to traditional ramen.

Specifically, “Fusilli Lunghi.”

As a pasta variety characterized by elongated, spiraled configurations mirroring ramen strands, it offered a passable textural substitute.

The approach mirrored methods Lion previously employed during solitary living to maintain basic nutritional intake.