The sun peeks over the horizon, casting a soft, gentle glow on the land. Oliver, wearing his uniform and tall shako cap, briskly walks along the sidewalk. Frowning, he lowers his head as he marches down the road. Pessimism clouds his thoughts, anticipating the worst for the day ahead.

     Suddenly, Oliver hears cheering breaking through the air. He turns his head swiftly, curiosity shining in his eyes. Across the street, he witnesses a sight that fills him with astonishment. Blood-red roses rain down upon him, showering him from fair maidens on the opposite side.

"Congratulations! Oh, our valiant Defender!"

"Hearty congratulations! Congratulations to you!"

"Congratulations on discovering a partner for yourself!"

"May God bless your relationship abundantly!"

     Oliver freezes, firmly planting his feet on the ground. His jaw drops, and his eyes lock on the spirited ladies cheering for him. Slowly, he smiles, growing wider and wider until it transforms into a radiant grin. Oliver waves back at the enthusiastic well-wishers before resuming his confident stride along the street.

     As Oliver continues his journey, he reaches an alley lined with vibrant market stalls. The street brims with eager buyers, forming rivers of bustling activity. Amidst the crowd, Oliver's ears catch the sound of voices—vendors calling out to him. Their enthusiastic cries fill the air, waving at him as they clap.

"Oh! It is the Remaining Podeshire!"

"Sir! Congratulations on forming a meaningful relationship!"

"God bless you and your beloved!"

     Oliver stops and turns around. He then smiles, beaming at the men and women around him. Oliver begins waving as he pulls the front brim of his shako cap downwards and lifts it back up.

"Sire! Congratulations!"

"May good fortune be with you!"

"And may your life be filled with joy as you embark on this new chapter with your first-ever partner, sir!"

     Oliver continues his strides as he traverses through the bustling street, passing by more market stalls and vendors who eagerly wave in his direction. Oliver smiles as he waves at them. A delightful flutter dances in his stomach as he finally witnesses individuals showing respect and acceptance towards his relationship.

"Hey, sir! Congratulations!"

"Sending my best wishes to you, son!"

"We hope for the best for your relationship with your lover!"

     Soon, Oliver reaches an intersection in the street. Spotting a passing carriage, he raises his hand and calls for it to stop. The carriage halts before him, and Oliver wastes no time opening the door and hopping inside, finding a comfortable seat.

"To downtown's base, sir," Oliver requested politely.

     The coachman nods and sets the carriage in motion. As the vehicle glides along the bustling street, Oliver spots crowds smiling at him through the window. People on the road begin to wave at him. Grinning, Oliver raises his arm high, waving back.

The coachman glanced at Oliver as the carriage moved along the road. "Are you Sir Oliver Podeshire?" he inquired politely.

Oliver answered, "Yes."

"Oh! I've heard that you've found yourself a partner. Good for you," the coachman said, smiling.

"Oh, thank you," Oliver gasped in surprise, trying to hide his flushing cheeks.

"Congratulations, sir," the coachman smiled. "I wish you the best of luck with your relationship."

"Your kindness is truly appreciated," Oliver bit his lips, lowering his gaze.

     After several minutes of travel, the carriage stops at the steps leading to Oliver's base. Stepping out of the carriage, Oliver immediately becomes aware of the crowd that has gathered and obstructed the entrance. The sight of numerous smirking faces before him challenges his composure, causing a momentary struggle as he fights to regain control over his trembling feet and take a few paces forward.

As Oliver passed through the crowds, they suddenly began cheering.

"Sir Podeshire! Congratulations on discovering your true love!"

"We are immensely proud of you, sire!"

"Indeed, we are!"

"Congratulations!"

"May you and your beloved partner have the best life!"

     As the crowds cheer for him, Oliver halts and gasps in surprise. A wide grin spread across his face, and he felt joy in his beating heart. The exhilaration has his smile growing even broader. Smiling, Oliver nods his head to each person around him as he marches towards the entrance of his base.

     The double doors swung open. Oliver stepped inside and approached the desk at its centre. He clasped his hands together and patiently waited for the guards inside to gather around.

     Waiting for the guards to gather and surround the desk with him, Oliver hears an unexpected bang on the door behind him. Raising a brow, he glances back. Then, he turns around and spots one of his men entering the room with a tray.

     On the tray is a plate of dark-brown cake with cursive letterings crafted from snow-white frosting. Oliver glances at the man, slowly shifting his gaze to the cake. The man leans forward, allowing Oliver to get a closer look at the intricate design of the delectable pastry.

Oliver read the cursive lettering on the cake. "May your relationship be blessed."

     Oliver's hands flew to his mouth. His eyes shimmered like gold, glistening like the sun's radiant sparkle. He then places his hands on his chest as he slowly smiles.

"Aw, thank you," Oliver smiled, glancing at the man and the others around him.

One of the guards stepped forward, speaking with genuine glee. "Sir, we are delighted to hear about your relationship with Gregory Hidesine. We congratulate you."

"Congratulations," another man chimed in, with a smile brightening his face.

Another man raised his hand triumphantly and cheered. "Cheers to our Defender!"

"Cheers to our Defender!" the guards cheered, raising their fists.

Meanwhile, Oliver's heart swelled as his hands pressed against his face.