The church bell rings, its melodious chimes echoing throughout the entire block. The one-story windows allow the warm sunlight to filter inside the church, casting vibrant hues through the stained glass panels. Above, the painted dome ceiling houses three magnificent imperial chandeliers, illuminating the paintings around them.

     The vast space of the church's interior is as spacious as an entire town square, holding thousands of visitors at once. From the first floor to the balconies, every seat is occupied by joyful and optimistic attendees. Every corner of the church teems with countless men and women, forming bustling crowds.

     Among the crowd is Sophia, with her long, blonde hair pinned up, curls framing her face. She wears a high-waisted, triangular white dress with puffy sleeves. Cream ribbons adorn her skirt, and a matching sash wraps around her waist. Her long hemline reveals her white flats and stockings. As she smiles, she claps her hands and bounces on her toes, peering at the stage before them.

     Beside Sophia sits Edgar, transformed and grown like his cousin. Sideburns frame his face, and his physique has become more robust and muscular. Edgar dons a long white suit with a waistcoat and trousers in the same hue. His dark greyish leather shoes provide a contrasting yet harmonious touch to his attire. Taking a deep breath, he savours the moment, appreciating the abundant happiness surrounding him.

     On the right side of Edgar's seat is Sarrah. Sarrah wears a white dress with voluminous shoulder sleeves extending to her elbows. The skirt's hemline cascades with three layers of silk frills. Her white-cream shoes peek out from beneath the hemline, tastefully displayed yet modest enough for the occasion. She smirks and tilts her chin, observing the proceedings on the stage.

     Sitting next to Sarrah is Bethany. Bethany wears her black hair in an updo, forming a striking contrast against her white dress. Her shoulder sleeves appear as fluffy as clouds, accentuated by a large cream ribbon on her back, and her hemline offers a glimpse of her black loafers with intricate gold designs. Clenching her fists with joy, Bethany watches the ceremony unfold before her eyes.

     Frederick attends the momentous day with his dignified presence. A long white coat envelops him, worn over a floral-embroidered cream waistcoat and trousers. Finishing his outfit, he wears black shoes with glistening gold buckles and a white pleated cravat tie around his neck. With his gaze fixed on the stage, he takes a deep breath through his nose and beams a glimmering grin.

     More attendees partake in the event, including Oliver's troops, wearing their silver-to-gold uniforms. Sir Sapplemen, Gregory's master wizard, also joins the festivities, observing the union alongside the jubilant crowd. Jerome, Jeremiah, and Jackson are also present, eagerly watching from the indoor balcony with an ocean of men and women.

     In the centre of the stage is Oliver. Oliver wears a grey vest with rectangular buttons under his white tailcoat. A black cravat tie loops around his neck, highlighting the pristine whiteness of his attire. He dons black shoes with silver buckles and white trousers, providing a contrasting element to his outfit.

     Gregory beams with elegance in his white tailcoat. His open-chested suit reveals the layers beneath, starting with a grey waistcoat after a white shirt and a ruffled tie. He finishes his ensemble with white trousers and black shoes, matching his lover.

"I, Gregory Hidesine, take you, Oliver Podeshire, to be my lawfully recognized partner and companion. I promise to love, support and cherish you through life's joys and challenges. I vow to respect and honour you. And with this ring, I pledge my love and commitment to you, now and always."

"I, Oliver Podeshire, take you, Gregory Hidesine, to be my lawfully recognized partner and companion. I promise to love, support and cherish you through life's joys and challenges. I vow to respect and honour you. With this ring, I pledge my love and commitment to you, now and always."

Oliver and Gregory exchanged rings, gently sliding the symbols of their love onto each other's fingers.

"Oliver Podeshire and Gregory Hidesine, you have exchanged vows and rings, signifying your commitment to one another. By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you partners in a legally recognized civil union. You may now celebrate this union with joy and love," the officiant stated.

     Everyone quickly rose from their seats and clapped loudly. Their applause reverberated like thunder. The church erupted in cheers—with some individuals on the verge of tears.

Edgar glanced to his left and right, then wondered aloud. "Huh? Where's the kiss?"

"Patience," Sophia whispered to Edgar.

     Oliver casts a playful glance at the attendees, smirking at them. His gaze then returns to Gregory. In a sudden burst of excitement, Oliver lunges forward, wrapping his arms around Gregory's, embracing his now-legally recognized spouse. A wide grin spreads across Oliver's face, mirrored by Gregory as he returns the embrace, tightening his hold and bursting into laughter. They exchange a quick, tender peck on the lips before continuing their hug.

     The crowd and visitors erupt in applause again, their cheers blending with the ringing bells. Cherry blossom petals descend from the sky, cascading through the balconies. Snowflakes fall from the heavens and cling to the windows.

     The newlywed couple enjoys the sweetness of the moment. Oliver and Gregory remain locked in each other's arms as happiness alone consumes their thought. Finally, they have become one, united in love.