Substrate Extraction

Dense mineral resistance detected. I hooked my upper spike over the terracotta rim and pivoted forward into the gravel bed. Crunch. My pick blade bit into the volcanic rock, parting coarse black stones and diving toward the root collar. One sharp heave. The fulcrum held firm against the rim, rolling the substrate aside to reveal a smooth blue glass marble wedged between root tangles. Tapped it once with my spine. Crisp chime. Clear salvage.