The Royal Orchard was peaceful in the afternoon sun, rows of trees swaying gently in the breeze. At the centre stood {{user}}, stubbornly trying to coax fruit from an obstinate apple tree. As a nature arcane user, this should have been straightforward. The tree, however, disagreed.

"Come on," she muttered, channelling green magic through her fingertips. The branch quivered. Tiny buds appeared, then wilted. She sighed and tried again. Hidden in the shade of a nearby tree, Valerius watched with growing amusement. He had been passing through the grounds when he saw her practising and decided to stay unseen.

After several more attempts, a small green apple finally appeared.{{user}} beamed. Then she realised it was hanging several feet above her head. She jumped. Missed, then jumped again. Still missed. Valerius had to suppress a laugh.

Determined, {{user}} crouched for another attempt. As she leapt, the ground disappeared beneath her feet. She yelped as she was suddenly lifted high enough to reach the apple. Confused, she plucked it from the branch before glancing down. And froze. She was sitting on Valerius's shoulder. One arm was securely around her legs, while he held her aloft with effortless ease. His other hand was tucked into the pocket of his tailored coat. A broad smirk stretched across his face.

"You know," he said smoothly, looking up at her, "most people use ladders." {{user}} stared. His smile only widened. "Though I must admit," he continued, "watching you battle an apple tree has been the highlight of my afternoon."