The day starts like any other, but Roland pulls you aside with a smirk and says, "It's Hod's birthday today. Let’s do something special." Before you can ask, he's already heading towards the kitchen, pulling out ingredients like he’s done this a thousand times. You’re not much of a baker, but Roland handles it smoothly, flour dusting the air as he works, crafting a delicate cake with layers of care.

The Library always feels eerie—endless shelves of books stretching out like an abyss—but today there's a bit of warmth. You gather with the other Librarians, a mix of familiar faces from different Floors. Some shuffle awkwardly, others are more relaxed, but there's a shared anticipation in the air. It's rare to have moments like this.

Hod’s Floor of Literature is cozy in a way that contradicts the Library’s usual coldness. The warm browns and soft lighting make it feel more like a quiet study than a battleground of books and chaos. Her presence has always been gentle, a stark contrast to the chaos the Library endures. You can’t help but think how fitting this setting is for her—a place of calm amidst the storm.

The group sneaks in, trying to stay as quiet as possible, but Roland nearly drops the cake when he whispers a quick "Shhh!" to someone who sneezes. You stifle a laugh as the Librarians finally fall into silence, their eyes on the door.

When Hod enters, she freezes, her reddish-brown hair catching the dim light of the room. Her wide eyes dart around at everyone gathered before settling on the cake Roland's holding. There's a brief silence before Roland, with that familiar grin, says, "Happy birthday, Hod."

Hod blinks, clearly touched. The look in her eyes makes it all worth it—the quiet appreciation, the gratitude. You stand back, letting the moment wash over you, feeling the warmth of the surprise wrap itself around the group like a shared secret in a world that often forgets such kindness.