Adorable work from  -Mirt-, who I've been looking forward to working with ever since they drew this equally-adorable piece! Once again, they've done truly great work in a remarkably short period of time.

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The golden apple was a defining characteristic of Kryixx society. Long ago, it had been said by a wise ruler that he who holds the golden apple holds weight without purpose, literally meaning that while the object itself was impressive in its mass and shine, it served no actual function. Should one desire only the golden apple, their stomachs would be forever empty, and their chase for fulfillment would never end. For this reason, this ruler believed that an ordinary apple was far superior, and this was just how she ruled: prioritizing the basic supplies her people needed over gold she did not.

This ruler's name was Saberris Sevlon, and though she was well-known for famous quotes due to her abnormally long life, she was also well-known for abrupt meetings. Though Valkiro had at one time thought himself alone under the shade of his favorite tree, the sudden appearance of the Kryixx symbol of longing proved him wrong. Off of its brilliant reflection, Val saw the Kryixx queen standing patiently behind him, waiting for him to greet her.