"The Eternal Storm? Why would you want to head there?"
Governor Vaedros was flabbergasted.
The Governor followed the hero Leon's exploits closely, renowned worldwide for his every move since his appearance. He dedicated most of his time to hunting Demonic Beasts and tirelessly searching for the elusive Demon Cult—actions befitting a true hero. Even in the most remote corners of the Hyades Republic, Governor Vaedros was well aware of Leon's unwavering work ethic and his numerous feats of heroism.
Thus, upon learning that Leon would be visiting them, the Governor's initial reaction was one of confusion. Had the Demon Cult infiltrated their ranks? Were there sightings of Demonic Beasts? What did the Solaris House and the Hero intend to do with their modest town?
It turned out… the group wished to visit one of the most dangerous regions on the planet.
"Yes, we will be investigating the cause of the Eternal Storm. We have reason to believe that the Demon Cult has appeared in the region."
"The Demon Cult? What business did they have with the Eternal Storm?"
The Eternal Storm was one of Olavaguel's main attractions and, at the same time, one of the most dangerous regions in all of Hyades. A desolate expanse where an eternal sandstorm rages, swallowing the land in a maelstrom of dust and howling winds. Located in the heart of the Olavaguel desert, this cursed region is where the sun is but a distant ember, its light smothered by an ever-churning storm of golden and ashen sand.
No traveler willingly enters the Eternal Storm, for those who do are rarely seen again. Carrying a force that would rip skin off bone, the Eternal Storm was practically a land that couldn't be navigated. Even Solaris Knights, known to be the planet's most resilient and durable beings, couldn't stand five minutes within the Eternal Storm.
Many theorised that something ancient stirred beneath the dunes. The storm is not merely a force of nature—an unrelenting entity that seems to repel all attempts to disperse it. Some believe it is the remnant of a forgotten god's wrath, while others whisper of a slumbering horror buried beneath the sands, its breath shaping the ceaseless storm.
A select few believed that the Eternal Storm hid riches beyond human imagination, that the remnants of a lost civilisation were hidden underneath the maelstrom. However, those who tried to explore the ancient storm were met with dastardly fates, ensuring that no one would be bold enough to attempt trekking to its location.
"Unclear. That's why we are here to investigate."
Leon boldly addressed the Governor and placed a bank slip before the seasoned veteran. Governor Vaedros peaked at the number written, and his eyes nearly bulged from their sockets. Nonetheless, he had to keep a straight face as he said:
"That's a big number."
"It's not a bribe, but insurance. Eldorin is here to investigate the Demon Cult, and in our investigation, there may be some issues or run-ins with the law. However, we will be responsible for any damages we may cause. This here is our downpayment and sincerity."
The Governor picked up the cheque and placed it in his bag like it were a precious gem. No… Given the value on the slip, it was far more expensive than any gem money could buy.
"We don't wish to be seen as tyrants who disrupt the peace of your town just because there is a suspicion that the Demon Cult is here. We would like to be partners in this investigation. We need your assistance more than you need ours."
Leon was openly cordial and diplomatic with the Governor, which brought a wide grin onto Vaedros's face. He'd naively believed that due to his youth, Leon wouldn't understand the game of politics and would force his way through to get what he pleased. But as it turned out, he was raised to be a gentleman and a formidable statesman.
"I've misjudged you, Hero. Not to worry, the government of Olavaguel is at your disposal."
"Glad to hear that," Leon offered a handshake, which the Governor happily exchanged. Before Leon left, though, he did raise one last question:
"Governor… If I may be so bold… Has any mysterious phenomena been happening in Olavaguel?"
"Mysterious phenomena? What do you mean?"
"For instance, has there been an increase in the number of people disappearing or anything that may differ from the norm?"
"Ah," the Governor nodded as he fully understood what Leon was getting at. He'd read about the Dance of Alverton and knew what the young Hero had experienced. So, it was natural for him to ask this question.
"No, there hasn't been a surge in the missing person cases within the town, but… I must be frank with you, Olavaguel isn't particularly known to be the most lawful area. People disappear all the time, either from personal grievances or they'd died in the mines and desert. And it has become so common that most families don't report their children if they are missing."
"I see. Thank you for your candor."
Leon had half-expected this. Not all places were lawful like Solfea. In a rough and unforgiving environment such as the desert, it was common for people to go missing. So, this wasn't an indicator of Demon Cult activity, at least not yet.
"Though there were some interesting cases."
"Interesting? How so?"
"These are just rumors, but there's been a rise in reports of ghostly encounters. While none of it appears in official police records, people claim to hear women sobbing in the dead of night on empty streets, men screaming about fire in the desert, and even sightings of the paranormal."
"When did this begin?"
"Three years ago." Latest content publıshed on novel⁂fire.net
Governor Vaedros's claim sent alarm bells ringing in Leon's mind, not that he would show it openly. Nodding his head calmly, Leon smiled and said, "Thank you, Governor. That's all the details I need."
"Glad to be of assistance."
The meeting with the governor went by in a flash. In less than an hour, Leon was already resting at the resort with Ellahan massaging his feet. During the past three years, it wasn't just Leon's strength that had risen by leaps and bounds; his relationship with his childhood sweetheart had already blossomed into a loving couple.
The Hero and the Saintess, an inescapable pair.
They were the beacons of hope in a world plagued by Demons. The union between the Solaris House and the Holy Church gave those who feared the demonic invasion a sense of dependence. That was why the Holy Church allowed Ellahan to neglect her duties as the Saintess despite protocol.
Of course, that was perfectly fine with Ellahan, too. If she could spend more time with her beloved Leon, she would grasp onto the opportunity and never let go.
"How did the meeting go?" The Saintess wore a sweet smile, only reserved for the person she loved most.
"It went better than expected. I don't think the Governor has been corrupted by the Demon Cult yet."
For the past three years, Leon had witnessed countless individuals succumbing to the allure of the Demon Cult. Without fail, they would radiate corrupted demonic energy—no matter how desperately they tried to conceal it, they could never deceive Leon's sanctified senses.
"But, he did mention a peculiar irregularity. It seems like there have been ghost sightings in the town. I've tasked Bane to look into it."
Leon replied while browsing through a preliminary report that Bane had prepared for him. Even though a beauty was rubbing his feet, he was still preoccupied with work, which brought an adorable pout onto Ellahan's face.
"Can't you look at that report later?"
"No, we don't have much time in Olavaguel. At best, we can stay three months, so every moment counts."
"Even when your girlfriend is busy rubbing your feet?"
Leon chuckled and placed his strong palms on Ellahan's soft, brown hair. Gently stroking it a few times, the young Saintess began to purr like a satisfied kitten and nuzzled her head into Leon's touch. Finally happy, she moved away from Leon's feet and rested her body on her lover's lap.
"You know… You don't have to push yourself too hard."
"I've been watching you for over three years. Do you think I wouldn't notice?" Ellahan broke a smile and continued: "This is the first time Amon has given you such an important mission. You want to live up to his expectations and not disappoint him, right?"
"Well, I can't say that you're wrong."
Leon shyly replied. Amon had created Eldorin, and Leon had been playing second fiddle to the immeasurably talented Knight for the longest time. Amon had planned, funded and executed every single large-scale mission, with Leon watching from behind.
This time, however, everything was on Leon's shoulders. Essentially, Eldorin's control had been moved from Amon to Leon for this one mission, and Leon wanted to do everything in his power to impress his mentor.
"Everyone's lives rely on my decision; of course, I must be more careful."
"That's true, but you've been preparing for weeks. Plus, Sir Bane and Sir Horus are here. You don't have to shoulder all of the burden on yourself."
"Haha, yeah. I understand that, Ella. It's just… I don't understand how Amon does this all alone."
Only after taking over temporary control of Amon's role did Leon truly appreciate how sheltered he was. All this time, he had followed Amon's lead, blissfully unaware of how much the man shouldered. The mental stress of leading one mission was enough to overwhelm Leon, yet Amon led Eldorin through dangerous missions daily.
"Well, he doesn't do it alone. He has Yue's help."
"Haha, that's right. They are the Fantasy Couple, after all."
Leon agreed with his lover's sentiment. At this point, everyone knew how inseparable the Fantasy Couple were. Wherever Amon went, Yue would not be far behind. But what most people didn't realise was how pivotal Yue's role was in their relationship. In many ways, she led Amon by the nose, and the Eldorin Commander followed her instructions like a loyal puppy.
"So, let's live up to their reputation and clear this mission without casualty."