In an instant, a powerful, complex cloud of steam rose up, mingling the scents of metal, minerals, herbs, and something indescribable.
The originally unpleasant stench rapidly faded, replaced by a faintly enticing aroma.
"Blanching them for thirty seconds mainly softens and preliminarily cleans their abnormally hard shells, dissolving the impurities stuck to the surface."
Mydei focused intently on the Ore Crabs in the water, their color gradually changing from dull metallic gray to dark red. At some point, a strangely shaped, entirely pink rod that gave off a faint buzzing sound had appeared in his hand.
He adjusted the power of the pink wand and carefully brought it close to the Ore Crabs in the boiling water without directly touching the surface.
"?" March 7th's eyes widened even further. Pointing at the constantly vibrating pink rod in Mydei's hand, her voice rose several octaves.
"What is that thing in your hand?! Where did you get it?!"
Its shape and color made it very difficult not to draw certain strange associations.
Squatting on the ground, Mydei continued his careful work without looking up, replying as though it were perfectly natural.
"It's Hysilens's. I borrowed it for the time being."
"High-frequency vibrations can effectively remove stubborn grime from the gaps in their shells and around their joints, making the ingredients cleaner."
As he explained the principle, his nose suddenly twitched, and a trace of confusion appeared on his face.
"Huh... where did that faint seafood smell come from? Ore Crabs shouldn't have this sort of scent..."
March 7th: "..."
The look on her face had shifted from shock into something indescribably complicated. She opened her mouth, taking a long while to recover her voice.
"Does Hysilens know you used her... uh, that thing to vibrate bugs?"
"She does."
Mydei nodded, pink vibrating