Reborn as an Extra Chapter 716: Island Felina. Part-3.

While the male companions engaged in somber discussions about the world's decline and the worsening state of affairs, the female contingent was immersed in a vastly different exchange within their vehicle.

"Driving ourselves to transport our esteemed guests is a rather traditional custom among us beastfolk, a gesture meant to convey our deep respect..."

"It signifies how much we value our visitors, to the extent that we readily assume the role of their chauffeur..."

Lia's countenance brightened upon hearing the words of Miki, who was at the wheel.

"I understand... My grasp of beastfolk cultural norms is limited, but this act alone illustrates the inherent goodness of your people..."

Miki offered a faint, wry smile in response to Lia's observation.

"Truthfully, I am somewhat of an anomaly. My father, being an SS-ranker, has imparted extensive knowledge to me since my youth. He maintained a rigorous educational regimen, anticipating my succession as the next guardian of the beast race."

"It's not that I harbor any complaints, mind you, but many of today's youth are beginning to let go of these time-honored customs and traditional courtesies..."

"Societal norms evolve, and ancient practices inevitably fade, giving way to new ones. I am cognizant of this reality, yet I find myself wrestling with the internal question of whether I can truly emulate my father's path."

Riya, who had been sprawled languidly in the back seat, resembling a sloth and casually munching on snacks, suddenly interjected.

"Sigh, regardless of the nation, there are always children burdened by the extraordinary achievements of their parents..."

"Link often expresses sentiments along these lines too... Personally, I believe each individual is unique, and we needn't replicate others to forge our own decisions..."

Lia cast her gaze toward Riya, reposing on the seat like a languid feline, and found it rather amusing that such a relaxed individual was offering counsel.

"On a related note, I've heard that the hair salons in the Beast Archipelago are celebrated as the finest globally. Is this assertion accurate?"

Miki's face lit up with a proud smile as she confirmed Lia's query with a nod.

"Indeed! We excel in the domains of hair care products, combat attire, and a variety of other cosmetic goods!"

Given that the majority of beast kin possess luxurious fur, the demand for superior hair products and high-caliber salons is exceptionally elevated throughout the beast archipelago.

The salon industry within this domain rivals the dwarf kingdom's established dominion over rare earth minerals and metals.

Both men and women journey from distant lands, drawn as tourists, to experience the opulent salons and the remarkable apparel crafted by the beastfolk.

With numerous beast kin sporting tails, ears, and a diverse array of unique anatomical features, the clothing manufacturers in this region have developed exceptionally inventive designs.

This very phenomenon stands as a principal factor behind the current global market dominance enjoyed by the textile brands originating from the blessed archipelago!

Necessity serves as the catalyst for innovation, and these advancements, in turn, generate novel avenues of prosperity.

While the Beast Archipelago may not boast the same level of technological sophistication as the human and elven empires, it possesses its own distinct allure and cultural richness!

"Furthermore, we have cat girls and fox girls who, through their captivating allure, are presently dominating the world's entire streaming landscape..."

"Otakus worldwide, in their pursuit of an idealized partner, regard this locale as a terrestrial paradise; a significant portion of tourism revenue originates from this demographic."

"Incidentally, we host numerous establishments offering high-quality cosplay attire. Should you two be amenable, you could invite your respective boyfriends for a dual cosplay date!"

The suggestion prompted Lia's curiosity, leading her to inquire,

"Wouldn't it constitute a triple date if you were to join us? Do you not have a boyfriend?"

Miki's expression shifted to one of slight embarrassment as she responded,

"Me? I am essentially the most formidable among the younger generation of my tribe. Given that we beastfolk are naturally drawn to individuals exhibiting greater strength, I have yet to find a suitable partner..."

Miki found herself in a state of helplessness regarding this situation.

She too yearned to experience the joys of youth, to engage in affectionate dates and exhibit charming shyness towards a boyfriend, yet the absence of a partner rendered these desires unfulfilled.

As the strongest of her age cohort, all the young men around her appeared comparatively weak and unimpressive. Moreover, due to ongoing inter-tribal friction among the beastfolk, opportunities to find a partner from a different tribe were nonexistent.

Consequently, she remained single, dedicating her time to rigorous training and her professional responsibilities.

"The customs of the beast kin diverge significantly from those of humans, it appears... Even if Link were less capable than I, my affection for him would remain unchanged..."

In response to Riya's statement, Lia gently shook her head, attempting to clarify.

"It's not about before you fall for someone... hmm, for instance, before I fell for Rio, I myself looked down on weaker folks and had an aversion to mages..."

"If, back then, I had encountered Rio, and if he had been weaker than me... Maybe things would have turned out drastically different, as I might not have found myself drawn to him..."

Miki also nodded in agreement with those statements.

"Yes, there's no point in dissecting the reasons for love, but in the nascent stages, you require some form of captivating element that compels you to focus more intently on the other individual..."

"Uh... that's my personal conviction, anyway. I'm unsure if it differs for others..."

Riya popped another candy into her mouth as she continued speaking.

"Well, even if Link were weak, disabled, afflicted with a terminal, incurable illness, and had no prospects whatsoever..."

"I hold an unshakeable belief that I would have still ended up falling for him... I don't quite know how to articulate it to you both, but I just have this certainty..."

The group engaged in casual conversation about various topics for some time before they eventually arrived at their intended location.