A faint sizzling sound began emanating from the barrel, as if countless microscopic organisms were frantically active inside. The temperature of the barrel walls rose visibly, becoming warm to the touch.
Thin wisps of white steam carrying earthy, fermented aromas started rising through the gaps in the lid and ventilation holes.
"This is..." Professor Ye, who had been observing nearby, looked astonished at the unusual phenomenon. "The temperature is rising rapidly."
He quickly retrieved an experimental thermometer and inserted it through the observation port. "Core temperature exceeds 60°C and is still climbing," Professor Ye remarked with amazement as he watched the rapidly ascending mercury. "Truly remarkable."
As the temperature inside the barrel continued rising, the steam grew thicker and the fermentation scent more pronounced—though not unpleasant. Instead, it carried a peculiar earthy fragrance.
This process lasted about ten minutes until the barrel walls stabilized in temperature and the steam became thinner. Only then did Han Ning withdraw his hands—this operation had consumed approximately 30 points of his Spiritual Power.
With his current abundant Energy and rapid recovery rate (about 20 Spiritual Power points per hour), he could afford such expenditures now—a far cry from his previous limitations.
"Professor Ye, what's the status now? How much longer is needed?" Han Ning asked.
Professor Ye carefully examined the thermometer, sniffed at the ventilation holes, and even stirred the contents with a clean wooden stick to assess moisture and consistency. "Incredible!" he murmured. "Given this temperature, reaction intensity, and material decomposition rate... it should only take 5 to 7 days now!"
"5 to 7 days..." Han Ning found this result quite satisfactory. Compared to 45 days, it was a tremendous leap forward. Moreover, with his daily acceleration interventions, the timeframe might shorten further.
With the plan progressing smoothly, Han Ning felt considerably more at ease. Though these composting and breeding efforts didn't provide immediate combat enhancements, they laid crucial foundations for the future. Whether cultivating special mutation crops like Crimson Mist Tomatoes or simply using this Super Compost for high-yield, premium food crops, the long-term benefits would be substantial and enduring. A stable food supply formed the bedrock of survival in this apocalyptic world—not to mention the simultaneous opportunity to hone his [Nature's Blessing] and [Rapid Growth] skills. Multiple advantages in one stroke.
"Alright, Professor Ye, Teacher Su, let's wrap up for today." Han Ning clapped his hands with a faint smile. "After working so long, we deserve some rest. Xu Ming should be recovered by now—I'll fetch him, and we'll have something special for dinner tonight!"
Both Professor Ye and Su Mingke paused their tasks, looking at Han Ning with mild surprise. His current demeanor—so different from the calm, ruthless persona he'd displayed earlier at the agricultural university—seemed almost like another person entirely.
"Take a break," Han Ning said, handing them each a water bottle before heading out to find Xu Ming.
Soon after, Xu Ming emerged, holding his daughter Xu Yinyin's hand.
After several hours of sleep, his mental state had improved considerably, though he still looked somewhat bleary-eyed.
"Boss, any orders?" Xu Ming thought Han Ning had new tasks for him.
"No orders. Tonight we're having a hotpot dinner!" Han Ning laughed. "You're quite the cook—show us your skills today by preparing a few dishes."
"Hotpot?!" Xu Ming's eyes lit up.
Han Ning waved his hand grandly. "Go get ready. Meat, vegetables, broth base—everything's in my storage room. Take whatever you need."
"Got it!" Seeing the boss's enthusiasm, Xu Ming stopped hesitating and immediately ducked into the storage room to rummage around.
After a while, Han Ning noticed Xu Ming being overly frugal, reluctant to use anything.
Without hesitation, Han Ning grabbed several packs of hotpot broth base, dehydrated vegetable packets, canned luncheon meat, and vacuum-sealed meats.
Soon, a space was cleared in the center of the living room.
Han Ning brought out a portable power station, extravagantly connected it to an extension cord, and used an induction cooker to boil water.
The spicy beef tallow broth melted in the pot, its rich aroma instantly filling the room.
On the table were frozen meatballs of questionable freshness, vermicelli noodles, and plates of sliced cured meats, beef, and ready-to-eat chicken.
Han Ning also took the opportunity to invite Yu Na over.
He had initially asked Lin Qianqian, but she was career-driven and still in a meeting with other Awakened, discussing future plans.
Yu Na didn't come empty-handed—she brought dried wood ear mushrooms and a few eggs.
Though the ingredients were simple, in this post-apocalyptic world, it was already a rare feast.
Additionally, Xu Ming stir-fried a few side dishes: vinegar-glazed shredded potatoes, pork with wood ear mushrooms, and beef stew with potato chunks.
The red broth bubbled vigorously in the pot, steaming hot.
Han Ning, Xu Ming, Professor Ye, Su Mingke, Yu Na, and little Xu Yinyin gathered around the table.
Han Ning opened some beer, pouring a glass for everyone, and thoughtfully gave Yinyin a glass of Fanta.
"Alright, everyone's worked hard," Han Ning raised his glass.
"To survival, and to eating hotpot more often in the future—cheers!"
"Cheers!" Xu Ming was the first to respond, taking a hearty swig.
"Thank you, Mr. Han," Professor Ye smiled, taking a small sip.
Su Mingke stared at the steaming hotpot and her glass, then at Han Ning's sincere smile. After a brief hesitation, she finally picked up her glass, lightly clinked it, and murmured:
"Thank you."
After a few drinks and bites of hotpot-cured meat, everyone felt thoroughly content.
The atmosphere at the table grew lively.
Xu Ming began recounting amusing and thrilling stories from his days as a sailor, eliciting laughter and sighs from the group.
Professor Ye shared anecdotes from his agricultural work.
Yu Na spoke little, wearing a faint smile as she occasionally served Yinyin food.
Yinyin nibbled on meatballs, listening to the adults' chatter while curiously eyeing the newcomers—Grandpa Ye and Auntie Su.
Su Mingke was initially reserved, quietly eating.
But when Yinyin innocently asked, "Auntie Su, is this meatball yummy?"
Meeting the little girl's sparkling eyes, Su Mingke's lips curled slightly as she nodded softly:
"Mhm, it's yummy."
Outside the window, a torrential downpour raged, with howling winds that seemed intent on drowning the entire world.
Inside, the fireplace flickered, the hot pot bubbled, and the aroma of food mingled with laughter and cheerful conversation—a scene of pure comfort.
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