No matter what the future held, they would hold each other’s hand and walk together into old age. As they straightened, the hall erupted into thunderous applause and cheers. In this moment, every person present was offering them blessings. Taking advantage of the lively atmosphere, Benjamin stepped forward with a microphone in hand, his expression solemn. His deep, magnetic voice carried a natural authority, honed from years at the top, and it made the crowd instinctively fall silent. “Ladies and gentlemen.” The instant he spoke, the room stilled. All eyes turned toward him, a quiet awe settling over the gathering. Standing beside Arthur and Ashley, Benjamin spoke with deliberate gravity. “Today is the wedding of my grandson Arthur and my granddaughter-in-law Ashley. I, Benjamin, thank you all for coming to witness their marriage and their happiness. And on this joyous day, I formally announce Arthur as the heir to Heaven’s Cult. When he turns twenty-two, I will pass to him the position of leader of Heaven’s Cult. And when that day comes, my granddaughter-in-law Ashley will officially become the First Lady of Heaven’s Cult.” The hall exploded in shock. Many had guessed he might use today to publicly acknowledge Arthur as his grandson. Some had speculated he might even hint at Arthur being groomed as the successor. But no one expected such a direct and decisive announcement—that Arthur would not only be heir, but would take the helm in just a few short years. Twenty-two. Barely past university age. Could someone so young shoulder such a weighty mantle? And Ashley—could a woman so young truly bear the responsibilities that came with the title of leader’s wife? Murmurs of doubt rippled through the guests, but no one dared voice dissent. Benjamin’s word was law. When his announcement ended, the crowd performed the formal Heaven’s Cult salute toward Arthur and Ashley. Hand in hand on the high platform, the couple met the gesture without flinching. Arthur’s voice, deep and steady like Benjamin’s, carried over the hall. “You may rise. Thank you for attending my wedding today. I hope I can rely on all of you in the days to come.” It was a brief speech, but his composure and presence didn’t resemble that of a young man barely out of adolescence. He carried himself like someone long accustomed to command, and the guests took note. Ashley, though nervous, felt no fear with Arthur beside her. Benjamin had waited for this moment to introduce them formally—not just out of pride, but because Ashley was now his acknowledged granddaughter-in-law, and he wanted the two of them presented as a pair. Seeing Arthur accept the crowd’s salute with quiet confidence, Benjamin’s eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “All right, Professors,” he said with a smile. “Let the newlyweds rest a bit. Everyone—eat well and drink well!” Mr. Hugo and Devon beamed and shouted in unison, “Cheers!” and the celebration roared back to life. The hall rang with applause and laughter, Taylor’s voice rising above the rest. At that moment, Arthur stepped forward and, without warning, swept Ashley into his arms. She gave a startled cry, clinging instinctively to his neck. He’d noticed the faint sheen of sweat at her temple—her legs, newly recovered, must be aching from standing so long. His sudden gesture brought the atmosphere to another peak, the crowd erupting in cheers and teasing calls. Ashley’s cheeks turned scarlet, and she buried her face in Arthur’s chest, her blush deepening with every shout. Cradling her lightly in his strong arms, Arthur strode toward their new home, the noise of the crowd following them like a tide.