Standing beneath the Ginseng Fruit Tree, its canopy blotted out the sky and sun, shrouding the entire rear courtyard in cool green shade.
Red Cloud sniffed. The enticing fragrance wafting from the Ginseng Fruits left one feeling clear-headed and refreshed.
"Is this the legendary Ginseng Fruit Tree?!"
"Fellow Daoist, your fortune is truly exceptional. Not only do you possess the Earth Book, but the Ginseng Fruit Tree was born alongside you as well. Your blessings surpass those of all Divine Beings."
Although Red Cloud had long heard of the Ginseng Fruit, he could not help but marvel upon seeing it with his own eyes.
"Haha, you flatter me, Red Cloud. There are countless Innate Divine Beings with greater fortune than mine!"
Zhen Yuanzi smiled modestly. Standing beneath the tree and gazing at this spiritual root that had accompanied him for countless years, a trace of pride flashed through his eyes.
"This Ginseng Fruit Tree blooms once every three thousand years, bears fruit after another three thousand years, and requires yet another three thousand years to ripen. Nearly ten thousand years pass before it yields thirty fruits."
"Fellow Daoist Red Cloud, you are in for a treat. This batch of Ginseng Fruits has just ripened, so I shall pick a few for you."
With that, Zhen Yuanzi raised a hand and waved. A streak of golden light flew from his sleeve, transforming into a Golden Striker.
Holding the Golden Striker, Zhen Yuanzi lightly tapped three or five Ginseng Fruits. The fruits dropped from the branches and were steadily caught by Zhen Yuanzi with a brocade handkerchief.
Before long, Zhen Yuanzi had knocked down eight Ginseng Fruits. He then summoned Qingfeng and Mingyue, the attendants waiting nearby, and ordered them to wash the fruits and serve them upon the stone table.
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