**Chapter 5: Eternal Vows**

The memory of that magical moment lingered, a sweet aftertaste that I couldn't shake off. As I gazed at the ring on my finger, a sense of wonder washed over me. It was as if I was floating on air, my feet barely touching the ground. Hange's proposal had been a dream come true, and I couldn't wait to start planning our future together. As we sat in the nest, wrapped in each other's arms, Yumi reappeared with a tray laden with steaming cups of tea and a plate of sweet pastries. She smiled knowingly, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "Congratulations, you two lovebirds," she said, setting the tray down on a nearby table. "I'm so happy for you both." We spent the rest of the afternoon basking in the warmth of our love, sipping tea and nibbling on pastries. The nest, once a simple hiding place, had transformed into a romantic sanctuary, a place where our love could flourish. As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the treetops, Hange and I reluctantly said our goodbyes to Yumi and began our journey back to our village. The walk was filled with laughter and whispers, as we replayed the highlights of our engagement. Hange couldn't stop smiling, his eyes shining with happiness, and I couldn't help but feel the same way. We strolled hand in hand, our fingers intertwined, feeling like we were walking on clouds. As we approached our village, I noticed a group of villagers gathered near the town square. They were chatting and smiling, and I could sense a sense of excitement in the air. As we drew closer, I saw that they were all holding small, intricately carved wooden boxes. Hange followed my gaze and his eyes lit up with a mischievous grin. "Ah, I think I know what's going on here," he said, his voice filled with amusement. "It seems like the villagers have gotten wind of our engagement, and they're eager to celebrate with us." The villagers welcomed us with open arms, congratulating us and offering their best wishes. They presented us with the wooden boxes, each one beautifully crafted with intricate designs and patterns. Inside, we found small tokens of their appreciation, including handmade crafts and delicious treats. As we accepted their gifts, I felt a sense of gratitude and belonging. The villagers had always been kind to us, but this gesture showed that they truly cared for us, and were willing to go the extra mile to make us happy. As the night wore on, the celebration grew, with music and dance filling the air. Hange and I were the center of attention, but we didn't mind. We were too busy basking in the love and support of our community, and enjoying every moment of our special day. As the stars began to twinkle in the night sky, Hange took my hand, his eyes shining with love and adoration. "I'm so grateful for this life, Akane," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "I'm grateful for you, and for the love we share. I promise to always cherish and protect you, my love." I smiled, my heart overflowing with love. "I'm grateful too, Hange," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper. "I promise to stand by your side, through thick and thin, and to love you with all my heart and soul." And as we sealed our promise with a kiss, under the starry night sky, I knew that our love would last an eternity.