The days that followed settled into a routine dictated by the rhythm of the hospital ward. Elleaner's recovery was slow but steady, each small improvement a victory hard-won against the ravages of the winter and her prolonged malnutrition. Aureon remained a constant presence by her side, his anxiety gradually receding as the color returned to her cheeks and the light back to her eyes. The medical module of his system continued to provide him with valuable insights into her treatment, allowing him to ask informed questions of the hospital staff and ensuring she received the best possible care within their limited resources.
With Elleaner finally out of immediate danger, Aureon began to dedicate more focused attention to the other aspects of the "Absolute God Tycoon System." The "Basic Business Module" opened up a fascinating, if initially overwhelming, vista of concepts. He spent hours in the waiting room, mentally navigating the intricate interfaces, absorbing information on rudimentary trade principles, the basics of supply and demand, and the foundational elements of establishing a business venture. The module presented the information in a clear, concise manner, breaking down complex ideas into digestible chunks. He found himself strangely captivated, his sharp intellect readily latching onto these new concepts, his mind already starting to churn with possibilities.
The "Basic Combat Module" was a different beast altogether. It presented a stark contrast to the cerebral nature of the business module, focusing instead on physical prowess and strategic thinking. Aureon mentally sparred with holographic simulations, rudimentary figures demonstrating basic stances, blocks, and strikes. He practiced the footwork in the quiet corners of the waiting room, his lean frame moving with a newfound purpose. He understood that in the harsh realities of their world, the ability to defend themselves was not a luxury but a necessity.
The startup capital, the 200 GSC remaining after Elleaner's initial hospital deposit, felt like a tangible weight of responsibility. He knew he needed to use it wisely, to sow the seeds of their future prosperity. He spent hours mentally running through potential business ventures, guided by the prompts and information within the business module. The module suggested focusing on areas where he had existing knowledge or skills. His experience with repairing discarded tech in the spaceport came to the forefront of his mind.
An idea began to take root. The hospital, despite its sterile environment, was a place of constant need. Medical equipment malfunctioned, personal datapads broke, and patients often needed small repairs or modifications to their assistive technologies. He had seen several instances where frustrated individuals were told they would have to wait for days for an official repair technician or purchase expensive replacements.
Focusing his intent, Aureon accessed the business module and began to research the local market for tech repair services. The module provided him with information on average rates, common types of equipment failures, and even suggested potential suppliers for basic repair components. The more he delved into the information, the more confident he became that this could be his first step, a small venture that could generate enough income to sustain them once Elleaner was discharged from the hospital and provide capital for further expansion.
The hospital environment presented its own set of challenges. Aureon, as a young, unattached individual with limited means, often found himself treated with a degree of suspicion or indifference by the busy medical staff. He learned to be polite and persistent, carefully choosing his moments to ask questions about Elleaner's care without becoming a nuisance. He observed the routines of the hospital, noting the ebb and flow of activity, the shifts in personnel, and the areas where he might be able to discreetly conduct his initial repair work.
He started small, offering his services to patients he overheard complaining about broken datapads or malfunctioning personal devices. He kept his prices low, just enough to cover the cost of basic components and a small profit margin. Word of his skills spread quickly through the patient grapevine. His repairs were efficient and affordable, a welcome change from the official channels. Soon, he had a steady stream of small repair jobs, earning a few credits here and there.
He used a portion of his earnings to buy slightly better food for himself, ensuring he had the energy to care for Elleaner and pursue his burgeoning business. He also started to subtly improve their living conditions within the hospital waiting room, acquiring a slightly thicker blanket and finding quieter corners where they could rest undisturbed.
As Elleaner's strength returned, Aureon shared his plans with her. He explained the "Absolute God Tycoon System" in simple terms, focusing on the opportunities it presented for them to build a better life. Elleaner listened intently, her trust in Aureon absolute. The fear of being back on the streets still lingered, but Aureon's newfound confidence and the tangible evidence of his ability to generate income offered a glimmer of hope.
Elleaner, in turn, started to use her own abilities more consciously. Her tele-empathy allowed her to sense when patients were feeling particularly distressed or lonely. She would often offer them a comforting word or a gentle smile, her presence having a surprisingly calming effect on those around her. The hospital staff, initially wary of the two street children, began to recognize Elleaner's quiet kindness and Aureon's unexpected competence.
Aureon knew that this was just the beginning. The hospital was a temporary stepping stone. Once Elleaner was fully recovered, they would need to find more permanent shelter and expand his repair business. The "system" offered the potential for so much more – innovation, leadership, even combat skills. He began to formulate plans, his mind racing with ideas for future ventures, his ambition, a seed planted in the harsh soil of abandonment and nurtured by the desperate need to protect Elleaner, starting to sprout. The sterile environment of the hospital was becoming the unlikely incubator for the rise of a future galactic tycoon. The first steps towards healing had paved the way for the first seeds of ambition to take root.