Obsidian said, "But more importantly, remember one thing: we have a mission for you directly from the Grandmaster."
Liebe asked, "What is it?"
Obsidian said, "So, do you know what Nerthalis is?"
Liebe replied, "An island from which, after the gates of the underworld crumble, all the demons will crawl out—according to the Bible. But as far as we know, it's a fictional island. And even if we found out where it was, it would basically be impossible to know how much time is left until the gates of the underworld crumble."
Obsidian asked, "And exactly how much do you know about the Concord Treaty and Hallelujah Island?"
Liebe said, "From what I know, the Concord Treaty was created and signed more than 500 years ago by the Grand Empire. It stated that no nation other than the Grand Empire has the authority to maintain military power below 2.5. Currently, we are at 3.9 and Baledia is at 3.75. Because of myself, Mother—the current Grandmaster—and the acting Grandmaster, if we truly awake, our might could come down to 3.1 just because of our attributes. When Grandfather was alive, just because of him, it was 2.7, while the Grand Empire had been at 0 for centuries because of their 12 Knights of the Round.
"So far, it has been theorized that Nerthalis is located in the Decalis region of the Grand Empire, which stretches about a radius of 75 km. As for Hallelujah Island… I don't know much about it."
Obsidian asked, "Do you know anything about it?"
Liebe replied, "It's an island on the continent Aima, specifically in the nation of Valtia—the nation of architecture and beaches, full of ancient ruins that transcend time itself. Officials of Valtia have stated that Hallelujah Island might be Nerthalis, since mindless demons were spotted in the area, and every priest who went there claims to feel sick just going near it."
Liebe said, "Okay."
Obsidian continued, "It might seem pointless, but the Empire sent their own Ark priests as well as representatives from Saint Louis. They reported the same thing, which forced the Empire to accept it as fact to a certain decree. The problem is that Valtia wants to be excluded from the Concord Treaty. They claim that if it really is a way to the underworld, they need more than their own forces, and they have requested help from other nations to unify humanity against the forces of evil.
"The issue is that most nations don't believe this—they think it's just BS. Next month, delegations from 15 nations allied with the Grand Empire will assemble in the capital of Valtia, Armos City. From there, they will verify whether the claim is true or not. For this, you will actually have to enter Hallelujah Island and check. Of course, so far the public hasn't been notified, as it might spread mass panic.
"Representing Eldorie, Liebe Faust, you are selected. Along with you will be Eldrie and any three people of your choosing. After the inspection, there will be a conference in the Grand Empire to decide what happens next. By tomorrow, you will be notified of the details about the meeting. Be prepared."
Liebe said, "Understood, sir. But I have a question. If the island is actually housing devils, how are people living there, and why haven't the devils come inland?"
Obsidian replied, "Because the island has been evacuated, and the waters around it have been sealed by Valtian authorities, with battleships patrolling it 24/7. Here's the matter: during the inspection, the Knight of Nine will be joining you as the representative of the Empire. That's why every nation feels safe sending their men to check and report on it.
"Liebe, rest up. If this island really is what it claims to be, you will need every bit of your power."