As Oliver concludes reading the book, a profound feeling strikes his body, grounding his entire being. Whirling thoughts flood his mind as he ponders his unwavering determination from the troubling past. Oliver lowers his eyes, and his breath slows as he wonders how he survived them all. But now, all he can do is let the comforting sensation sink in as he recognizes that he has overcome his struggles.

     Releasing a heartfelt breath, Oliver returns the book to the side and folds his hands. He then closes his eyes as thoughts materialize within his head. Setting the thoughts aside, Oliver leans in and grasps a bible with a thick black cover and a gilded cross that reflects the light. Then, he flips the silky pages with a light and gentle hand and begins reading.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight..." Oliver read, his voice echoing in his head. He then flicked the pages and continued. "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future," Oliver paused briefly, absorbing the verses as he closed his eyes. As he reopened his eyelids, he continued scrutinizing the words. "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave nor forsake you." He then took a deep breath, his eyebrows furrowing in concentration. Sighing, Oliver read, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me..."

     Suddenly, the sound of hinges creaking and groaning in protest resounds behind Oliver, almost startling him. Gasping faintly in surprise, Oliver lowers the bible and looks behind him, his eyes widening. His eyes quickly dart to the doorway, but he spots nothing but the door swinging open gradually.

"...Who's there...?" Oliver asked courageously, raising his voice.

     Unexpectedly, a figure emerges from the doorway, entering the room and appearing before Oliver. Oliver's eyes widen upon seeing the person, and he cannot help but contemplate the reality surrounding him. His breath hitches, caught in his throat, as he discerns the face of the individual standing boldly before him.

     Before Oliver is his 29-year-old self, exuding an everlasting purity like a lotus flower. 29-year-old Oliver's fiery hair glows like copper under the daylight, and his eyes glimmer like the rising sun, capturing every essence of the enveloping beauty. His skin possesses a playful glint reminiscent of a hay bale in a sunlit field, contrasting against his black coat with golden buttons. Matching his overcoat, he dons black trousers and shoes, highlighted by an old-fashioned cravat tie.

     Surprised by the sudden event and appearance of his 29-year-old self, Oliver holds his breath and glances at his portrait during his prime hanging on the wall. He examines the similarity between the painting and the person standing before him, observing how they relate. With his heartbeat growing faster, a realization dawns upon him as he learns that he is seeing his 29-year-old self.

"Greetings, self," 29-year-old Oliver greeted Oliver with a calm and steady gaze.

Oliver couldn't do anything but remain seated as he watched his 29-year-old self approach him. "...W-what do you want...?" he asked.

"I want to ask you a question," 29-year-old Oliver replied, his steps steady as he gained closer to Oliver.

"What is it...? What's it about?" Oliver questioned, furrowing his brows.

"You've said that if I hear you accept this is how you'll end, we'll share the same sentiment and accept how it is. Are you certain about that?" 29-year-old Oliver inquired.

"Gregory told us he'll help us accept what will be, will be, didn't he?" Oliver responded.

"We did accept it," 29-year-old Oliver replied with a slow nod. Pointing a finger at the ceiling, he continued, "However... accepting the fact you'll perish because of someone's hateful actions is beyond our tolerance. And it will always be beyond our tolerance."

"Oh..." Oliver's eyes lowered as he absorbed his 29-year-old self's words.

"Haven't you thought about this? What would your children's future be if you left this world so soon? What would they feel if the person who chose to raise them just suddenly disappeared? What could also be the future of your spouse, family, and companions if you choose to let someone end you right here?" 29-year-old Oliver pondered aloud, leaving Oliver breathless. "...And think about this... what could be the future of Asbranne without its remaining Defender? The Remaining Podeshire?" he asked, inclining his face towards Oliver, his presence bearing down upon him.