As the dance concluded, Elijah's voice rang out, capturing the attention of Oliver and his companions. "Mr Podeshire and honourable guests!" Elijah announced, rising from his chair. "Allow me to introduce... my wives!"

     Three women with fair complexions and dark brown eyes emerge behind Elijah. They walk calmly, their hands resting on their skirts and their gazes lowered. Taking their positions behind their husband, Elijah, they halt and stand in unwavering stillness. At first glance, they bear a striking resemblance to one another, but their distinctive outfits provide individuality and contrast to their appearances.

     The woman on the left dons a broad turban with three ostentatious ostrich feathers accentuating her stature. Her presence is further enhanced by the glimmering gold ornaments around her body, complementing her deep-blue sapphire dress with a flowing train. Finishing her ensemble, she wears a plush red robe made of natural fur.

     On the other side stands the woman on the right, dressed in a gown and veil as pure and white as freshly fallen snow. Delicate golden floral patterns are intricately embroidered throughout her attire, and her voluminous skirt possesses such grandeur that it can easily hide a man within its folds. Earrings gently sway from her ears while other jewellery graces her neck and wrists, casting a bright silver glow around her.

     Meanwhile, the lady in the middle, the youngest among them, sparkles in a high-waisted pastel pink dress with ruffles along the low-cut collar. Pure white gloves extend up to her elbows, while lacy accents drape along the hemline of her floor-length skirt. A lengthy veil cascades from her head, touching the ground like a flowing cape.

     The sight and notion of three wives leave Sophia, Gregory, Edgar, and Sarrah wide-eyed and breathless. The concept remains unfamiliar in their realm, leaving them hesitant to articulate their thoughts. Their mouths emit only hesitant huffs, reflecting their lingering doubts. In the meantime, Oliver and Bethany maintain their smiles, beaming delight as they warmly greet the wives. They appreciate the unique and exotic circumstances, observing the queen consorts—Elijah's wives—with curiosity, respect, and without judgment.

"Why, hello there!" Oliver greeted Elijah's wives with a warm smile.

"Hello," the wife in the pastel pink dress nodded as the others smiled back.

"Allow me to introduce Esther," Elijah tapped the woman in the sapphire dress on the left. "And this is Deborah," he patted the woman in the silver-white gown on her shoulder. "And my newly-wedded wife, Abigail," he wrapped his arm around the young lady in the pastel pink dress.

"...Woah," Gregory expressed his intrigue through a breath.

"My beautiful wives!" Elijah grinned, introducing Oliver to his wives with a proud gesture. "This man is Oliver Podeshire, the Remaining Podeshire who bravely extinguished the wildfire!"

"Oh, I have heard of you," Abigail addressed Oliver. "You came here to save our oases. And you succeeded."

"I did."

"We express our genuine gratitude from the depths of our hearts, Mr Podeshire, for the remarkable work you have done," Esther placed a hand on her heart.

"Thank you for fulfilling the king's wish," Deborah added.

"You are all forever welcome," Oliver responded with a sincere smile. "I am always here to serve."

Elijah then introduced Oliver's companions to his wives. "Esther, Deborah, Abigail, these people are the companions of the Remaining Podeshire!"

"Hello," Abigail waved at the others.

"Hi!" Sophia waved back.

"Oh, of course! A man as exceptional on the inside as he is on the outside deserves countless friends," Esther thought.

"And a spouse," Abigail added, biting her lips.

"Husband, may I inquire if Mr Podeshire is married?" Deborah turned to Elijah with a curious smile.

"No, Oliver Podeshire is not married," Elijah replied, smirking at Oliver. "But he is in a civil union!"

"With whom?" Esther, Deborah, and Abigail asked eagerly.

"With a man named Gregory!" Elijah pointed at Oliver's spouse, Gregory.

     The entire ballroom falls into a sudden hush. Gasps gushes from every corner, reverberating through the grand, spacious hall. All eyes converge on Gregory, fixating their gaze on him, staring through his will.

     Gregory feels his heart skip a beat, and his chest tightens with each passing second. The weight of a million stares feels like a barrage of piercing daggers. Embarrassment floods within him, causing his neck to shrink into his body as he shields his face with trembling hands.

"Indeed, cultural differences exist, but respect remains of utmost importance and obligation among all humans," Elijah said wisely.

"I couldn't agree more," Oliver concurred, nodding.

"So, Mr Podeshire, considering your visit here in Runtokgi, what are your plans for the future?" Elijah inquired curiously.

"My companions and I intend to journey to Aganulis and provide assistance," Oliver replied.

"Oh, I presume the neighbouring territories also require your aid?" Elijah asked, slightly concerned.

"Yes, they do," Oliver confirmed.

"When do you plan to depart for Aganulis, Mr Podeshire?" Elijah probed, attempting to guess the timeline. "In a few days? Perhaps next week?"

"No, Your Majesty," Oliver responded firmly. "I must make my way there as soon as possible."

"Well, it is already nighttime. I suggest you and your companions get some rest to replenish your energy for the days ahead," Elijah offered, providing a humble recommendation. "My servants will prepare the guest bedroom for all of you!"

Oliver glanced at his yawning companions. "I believe that's a wise suggestion," he said.

     A grand hallway stretches along the palace walls, decorated with sparkling golden accents that catch the shimmering light from exquisite pearl chandeliers. Elijah guides Oliver, Sophia, Gregory, Edgar, Sarrah, and Bethany along the corridor. As they proceed, their eyes widen at the sight of mesmerizing crystals painted on the walls, leaving them in awe until they halt.

     Elijah turns to a door on his right, reaching into his pocket to retrieve a tiny key. He then inserts the key into the lock and twists it. The door swings open, revealing a spacious room with opulent bunk beds awaiting its occupants.

"Please, come in," Elijah stepped aside, allowing his guests to enter.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Sophia expressed her gratitude before crossing the doorway.

One by one, the others entered, but Oliver hesitated at the doorway. Before stepping into the room, Oliver turned to Elijah and spoke. "Your Majesty, I want to express my gratitude for allowing me and my companions to stay here tonight."

"No, Mr Podeshire. It is I who should thank you for coming here and offering your assistance," Elijah replied.

A warm smile formed on Oliver's lips. "Hm," he nodded, closing his eyes briefly.

"Now, rest well, as you have a long day ahead of you," Elijah advised. He then took his polite leave, striding down the hallway.

Oliver finally stepped into the room, gently closing the door behind him.