The crack in the trunk grew wider.
Golden light spilled from within, like liquid sunlight, warm and dazzling.
An indescribably sweet fragrance spread through the air, richer than any honey they had ever smelled. It was not just sweetness, but a blend of flowers, fruit, and fresh greenery. One breath left them feeling light enough to float away.
Leib's eyes lit up.
He had run a casino for more than twenty years. He had seen countless treasures and tasted countless delicacies. Yet now, his hands were trembling.
Because he knew this was a treasure beyond price.
Treeheart Honey.
Honey that the King of All Trees had spent more than ten thousand years making, gathering the essence of the entire Eternal Forest, drop by drop.
"Careful..." Leib's voice trembled. "Don't waste any..."
The King of All Trees' trunk shuddered gently, and a mass of golden liquid floated out of the crack, hanging in midair.
It was as large as a basketball. Soft golden light shimmered across its surface, while currents of light swirled within like a tiny sun.
"This is... all I can give you." The King of All Trees sounded weak. "It took over ten thousand years... to make this much."
Leib carefully took out a specially made crystal jar and collected the Treeheart Honey.
The golden honey flowed into the jar with a clear, chiming sound, as lovely as music.
"This is enough, more than enough..." Leib's hands shook. "It's too much... One jar will keep us fed for half a month..."
The King of All Trees' trunk slowly closed. The crack vanished as though it had never been there.
"Take it..." The King of All Trees spoke softly. "As my thanks."
A campfire was lit beneath the tree.
Leib tied on an apron and began cooking with the