Part 3

The anniversary celebration in Keimonomimi Village was winding down, a bittersweet feeling settling over the community. For days, the village had been bustling with activity, as visitors from far and wide came to honor Morel and the profound impact he had on their lives. Now, with the sun beginning its descent, the visitors were packing up, their carriages and wagons loaded with memories and tokens from the festivities. They waved their goodbyes, promising to return for the next celebration, leaving behind the tight-knit community that had formed around Morel.

As the village slowly emptied of its guests, the atmosphere shifted to something more intimate, more personal. The people who remained were those who had become Morel's family, his closest allies, and the ones who had stood by him through every trial and triumph. The air was filled with the warmth of familiarity as they prepared to bring the celebration to its conclusion, the setting sun casting glowing shadows across the village square. The joy of the past few days lingered in the air, mixed with the anticipation of what the future might hold for their beloved elder and his ever-growing family.

As the final day of the celebration drew to a close, a sense of contentment settled over Keimonomimi Village. Amid the fading festivities, Gina, Fifi, and Belle approached with a massive cake, their faces beaming with pride. Gina, her tail wagging with excitement, spoke up, "We worked really hard on this, Morel. We hope you like it!"

The cake was a masterpiece, each layer intricately decorated with vibrant colors and patterns that reflected the joyful spirit of the occasion. At the very top, a single candle flickered gently in the evening breeze, symbolizing the conclusion of the celebration. It was a simple but meaningful gesture, marking the end of the festivities that had brought so much happiness to the village.

Morel smiled warmly, his heart full as he looked around at his gathered family, fellows, and the community that had grown around him. With a deep breath, he leaned forward and blew out the candle, the small flame extinguishing with a soft puff. The moment was met with a round of applause, everyone cheering and clapping in celebration of their beloved elder.

With the candle now out, the villagers wasted no time in slicing into the cake, laughter and conversation filling the air once more as they eagerly dug in. The sweet treat was the perfect way to close out the days of festivities, a final taste of the joy they had all shared together. As they enjoyed the cake, Morel couldn't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude. Surrounded by those he loved, he knew that this was the true heart of the celebration—being with his family and community, and looking forward to the many more happy years to come.

As the final moments of the celebration unfolded, Morel savored the sweet taste of the cake, feeling the warmth of his community around him. Amidst the laughter and conversation, he noticed Super, along with his corvid companions, setting up a camera nearby. Curious, Morel called out, "What's the camera for, Super?"

Super grinned mischievously as he adjusted the lens. "It's for your wedding, Elder Morel."

Morel blinked in surprise. "My wedding? What wedding?"

Before Super could respond, Morel heard the sound of someone running towards him. He turned just in time to see Lina, her long elven hair flowing behind her, wearing a stunningly tailored wedding dress. She was barefoot, her heels clutched in one hand as she sprinted toward him, a radiant smile on her face. Without hesitation, she threw her arms around him, nearly knocking him off balance.

"What's going on, Lina?" Morel asked, still trying to process what was happening.

Lina looked up at him, her eyes sparkling with joy. "We're having a family ceremony, Morel. A real wedding, in front of everyone."

Morel couldn't help but laugh, gently reminding her, "But Lina, we're already family."

She nodded, a soft blush coloring her cheeks. "I know, but our first ceremony was so private because of my job as an idol. I've always wanted to reaffirm our union in front of everyone who matters to us." She paused, her voice faltering slightly, "Am I being too unreasonable?"

Morel's heart softened at her words, and he smiled, pulling her close. "Not at all, Lina. Let's do it."

With that, they walked together under the vine-covered arches where the celebration had begun. Surrounded by their loved ones, they exchanged vows to always love and care for each other, their words full of the deep affection and respect they shared. As they sealed their vows with a kiss, the gathered crowd erupted into cheers and applause, the joy of the moment infectious.

Morel then swept Lina up into his arms, carrying her like a princess as Super captured the perfect moment with his camera, the click of the shutter echoing in the air. The image was a symbol of their love, a fitting conclusion to the celebration that had brought so much joy to their lives.

Later that night, Morel placed the photograph in his album, carefully sliding it into place alongside the many other memories of his family. His heart was full as he reflected on the past, but even more so as he looked to the future. He knew that more adventures awaited him, more people to meet and love, and more moments to cherish. With a contented sigh, he closed the album, ready to embrace whatever came next, knowing that his family would always be by his side.