As the celebration wound down, the General, Marcos, Arden, and Leigh gathered in the private majlis, a richly adorned room in the Sentinel’s Peak Estate. The space was quiet, the warm glow of lamps casting long shadows on the intricate woodwork and bookshelves that lined the walls.

The Governor of Cebu City entered, his expression serious as he carried a folder marked with the presidential seal. He placed it gently on the table before addressing the group.

“General,” the Governor began, “I come bearing a message from the President. It’s urgent.”

The General leaned forward, his brows furrowing. “Go on,” he said.

The Governor opened the folder, revealing a series of reports and photographs. “In the past month, there have been disturbing incidents in Bohol. Villagers are reporting sightings of a creature they describe as an ‘Ongo.’ At first, we thought it was local superstition, but...” he paused, sliding a photograph across the table, “...the evidence suggests otherwise.”

Arden picked up the photo, his eyes narrowing as he studied the image. It showed a dense forest with trees clawed deeply, as if by something inhumanly strong. Another image depicted livestock carcasses, their bodies mangled in ways that defied explanation.

Leigh leaned closer, her voice tinged with concern. “An Ongo? Isn’t that just folklore?”

The Governor shook his head. “It’s what we thought too, but the pattern of attacks and the eyewitness accounts are consistent. Something is out there, and it’s terrifying people. The President believes it might be connected to what you’ve been investigating—the Dark Arcana.”

The room fell silent as the weight of the revelation sank in. The General spoke, his tone resolute. “If this creature is tied to the Dark Arcana, then it’s more than just a threat to Bohol. It could be a piece of a much larger puzzle.”

Marcos, ever the tactician, crossed his arms. “Do we have any leads on its location?”

The Governor nodded. “Reports place it deep in the forests of Loboc. The area is vast, and the terrain is challenging, but the villagers have narrowed down the sightings to a specific region.”

Arden’s jaw tightened as he set the photo back on the table. “We need to act fast. The longer we wait, the more damage it could cause.”

Leigh placed a hand on her grandfather’s arm. “We’ll go together. Whatever this is, we’ll face it as a team.”

The General nodded, pride and determination evident in his gaze. “Agreed. Marcos, prepare the men. Arden, Leigh, and I will lead the mission. Governor, inform the President that we’re taking this on. The Valverdes don’t back down from a challenge.”

The Governor smiled faintly. “I had a feeling you’d say that. I’ll relay the message immediately. Good luck—Bohol is counting on you.”

As the Governor left the room, the group exchanged determined looks. The celebration had come to an end, and the weight of their next challenge loomed ahead. For now, the Sentinel’s Peak stood as their fortress, but soon, their resolve would be tested in the dense forests of Bohol.

The morning sun shimmered over the waters of Cebu, casting a golden hue across Pier #1. The bustling pier, typically alive with travelers and cargo, felt quieter today. A sleek private ferry, gleaming white and adorned with the Governor's insignia, awaited its exclusive passengers. The Governor had arranged this special vessel for the Valverde family and their entourage, ensuring privacy and security for their critical mission to Bohol.

Leigh adjusted her sunglasses as she stepped onto the pier, her casual yet elegant attire catching the morning breeze. "I’ve always loved the energy here," she remarked, watching porters hustle and salanga flutter above the docked boats.

Arden, carrying a modest pack, scanned the activity with a mix of awe and wariness. "It’s overwhelming," he admitted. "So many things happening at once."

Marcos Delgado, the ever-dutiful head bodyguard, gave a curt nod toward the ferry. "We need to board soon. The sooner we reach Bohol, the better."

As the group approached the ferry, a familiar voice rang out. "Well, well, if it isn’t The Fool!"

Arden stopped mid-step, his gaze darting toward the source. There, leaning casually against a post, stood Dominic. Dressed in an elaborate red coat adorned with swirling gold patterns, he exuded both mystique and flamboyance. His wand-like staff twirled idly between his fingers, its tip sparking faintly as if alive.

Leigh’s expression shifted from neutrality to mild curiosity. She remembered him from the Sinulog Festival but hadn’t spoken with him before. "Dominic, right?" she asked cautiously.

Dominic grinned, offering a theatrical bow. "Miss Valverde, your memory serves you well. But worry not—I’m not here to disrupt your charming existence. My focus lies elsewhere."

Arden folded his arms. "Alright, Dominic. If you’re here for me, stop with the riddles and get to the point."

Dominic straightened, his grin fading slightly as he adopted a more serious tone. "My father, Zeth, told me to join this little adventure of yours. Bohol is no ordinary mission, and trust me, you’ll need all the help you can get."

The General, stepping forward, regarded Dominic with a scrutinizing gaze. "And what do you know about this mission, exactly?"

Dominic met the General’s eyes with unwavering confidence. "Enough to know that you’re about to face something far beyond ordinary threats. The Dark Arcana have left their mark on Bohol, and what awaits you there is both ancient and dangerous."

Arden’s jaw tightened. "You’ve mentioned the Dark Arcana before. Are you saying this is connected to them?"

Dominic nodded. "More than connected. They’re stirring, Fool. The balance is shifting, and Bohol is just the beginning."

Leigh glanced at Arden, her concern evident. "If this is true, what’s the plan?"

Dominic smirked, twirling his wand again. "First, we get to Bohol. And second, I guide The Fool to someone who might just hold the answers you need. My aunt, The High Priestess. She’s... elusive, but I know how to find her."

The tale has been illicitly lifted; should you spot it on Amazon, report the violation.

The General’s voice cut through the air, firm and commanding. "If you’re joining us, Dominic, you follow my rules. This is a Valverde operation, and I won’t tolerate distractions. And dress up like a normal kid. We are not in a circus here."

Dominic offered a mock salute, his grin returning. "Yes, sir, General, sir."

With a flourish of his wand-like staff, Dominic twirled it in the air, and in an instant, his flamboyant red coat transformed into a casual button-up shirt and a pair of neatly pressed slacks. "Better?" he asked, his tone dripping with playful sarcasm. "I wouldn’t want to offend the General’s impeccable sense of decorum."

The private ferry cut through the waters like a blade, the steady hum of its engines a comforting backdrop. Onboard, the Valverde family and their entourage enjoyed the luxury of spacious seating and an array of refreshments. The ferry’s interior was elegantly furnished, with polished wood paneling and large windows that offered panoramic views of the sea. A faint scent of fresh flowers lingered in the air, adding to the serene atmosphere.

Arden stood at the railing, gazing out at the expanse of blue. The rhythmic lapping of waves against the hull seemed to quiet his restless thoughts.

Leigh joined him, her voice softer now. "You okay?" she asked, leaning on the railing beside him. Her hair fluttered gently in the breeze.

Arden nodded, though his expression remained thoughtful. "Just thinking. It’s a lot to process. This whole Arcana thing... it feels bigger than me."

Leigh smiled faintly, nudging him lightly with her elbow. "You’ll get used to it. The Arcana stuff might sound crazy, but you’re handling it well. You’re tougher than you think, mountain boy."

Dominic strolled over, his casual outfit now blending with the group. His wand—or whatever magical object it was—had disappeared, leaving him looking almost ordinary. Almost. "Well, he has to," Dominic interjected, his tone light but carrying a hint of gravity. "The Fool is always at the center of the story."

Arden shot him a look, his tone dry. "That’s not comforting." Dominic chuckled, leaning against the railing with effortless ease. "It wasn’t meant to be. But don’t worry—you’ve got me, and I happen to be very good at what I do."

Marcos, standing a few feet away, observed the trio with his usual quiet vigilance. His sharp eyes scanned the horizon periodically, a habit born of years of training. "We’ll reach Bohol in a few hours," he informed the group. "Until then, maybe you all should get some rest."

Leigh turned back to the sea, her gaze distant. "I’ve been to Bohol so many times, but this feels... different."

Arden glanced at her. "Why’s that?"

She hesitated before replying. "Because it’s not just about seeing the sights this time. It’s about something much bigger. And honestly... that’s a little terrifying."

Dominic’s smile softened slightly. "Good. Fear keeps you sharp. But don’t let it consume you. The Arcana work in mysterious ways, but they don’t choose people without reason."

The ferry’s captain appeared briefly to inform the General about their progress, adding a subtle layer of reassurance to the already calm journey. As the sun climbed higher in the sky, casting shimmering reflections on the water, the group settled into a quiet camaraderie, each person lost in their own thoughts.

Arden, still at the railing, watched a flock of salanga dart gracefully over the waves. He took a deep breath, letting the sea air fill his lungs. The journey ahead felt daunting, but in that moment, surrounded by the endless ocean and the quiet determination of his companions, he felt a flicker of hope.

Leigh spoke up suddenly, breaking the silence. "When we get to Bohol, you’re trying the calamay," she said, her tone teasing but firm.

Arden raised an eyebrow. "Calamay?"

"It’s a sweet treat Bohol is known for," Leigh explained. "Trust me, you’ll like it."

Dominic smirked. "Ah, yes, The Fool sampling the delicacies of Bohol. A crucial part of the journey, I’m sure."

The group shared a laugh, the tension easing slightly as the ferry continued its smooth voyage toward the unknown challenges awaiting them in Bohol.

The ferry glided smoothly into Bohol’s private pier, the lush coastline coming into view. Palm trees swayed gently in the breeze, their silhouettes framed by the early afternoon sun. As the group disembarked, the Mayor of Bohol stood waiting at the end of the dock, his crisp barong immaculately pressed. His welcoming smile broadened as the Valverde family approached.

“General, Miss Leigh, welcome,” the Mayor said, bowing slightly out of respect. “We’ve prepared everything to ensure your stay is comfortable and secure.”

The General stepped forward, shaking the Mayor’s hand firmly. “Thank you, Mayor. Your arrangements are much appreciated.”

Leigh, her natural charisma shining through, offered the Mayor a warm smile. “It’s beautiful here, as always. Thank you for hosting us.”

The Mayor gestured toward a convoy of black SUVs waiting nearby. “Please, allow us to take you to your rest house. But first, I’d like to show you some of Bohol’s wonders. I insist.”

The General hesitated for a moment before nodding. “Lead the way, Mayor.”

The first stop was the famed Chocolate Hills. The convoy wound its way through scenic roads, offering breathtaking views of the iconic mounds. The hills rose like emerald domes, their verdant greenery stretching as far as the eye could see.

Arden stepped out of the SUV, his eyes wide with wonder. “They’re incredible,” he said, his voice tinged with awe. “Like something out of a story.”

Leigh chuckled, standing beside him. “Wait until you see them during the dry season. That’s when they really live up to their name.”

The General stood a few paces away, his hands clasped behind his back as he surveyed the landscape. “It’s a reminder,” he said quietly, “of what we’re fighting to protect.”

Their next stop was the Tarsier Sanctuary. The group moved through the shaded paths, the thick canopy above casting dappled light onto the ground. The tiny, wide-eyed primates clung to branches, their delicate movements almost otherworldly.

Arden felt a strange warmth on his wrist as they approached a secluded area. Glancing down, he noticed his bracelet glowing faintly, the crescent moon charm cradling a closed book pulsing with soft light. He instinctively touched it, his expression tense, as though the bracelet itself carried a whisper of hidden knowledge.

Dominic, walking a few steps behind, noticed the change immediately. His brow furrowed as he stepped closer, his tone shifting to one of certainty. “The bracelet,” he murmured, “doesn’t glow without reason. My aunt—The Priestess—is near. She must be watching us.”

Leigh leaned in, lowering her voice. “Is it reacting to the tarsiers?” Her casual question hung in the air, earning a deadpan stare from Arden and a smirk from Dominic. Dominic shook his head, his amusement evident. “Oh, sure, Miss Valverde, it’s probably the tarsiers,” he said with mock seriousness. “Or maybe… it’s the presence of an Arcana who represents hidden knowledge watching us from the shadows.” Leigh raised an eyebrow but said nothing, her light-hearted comment cutting through the growing tension and earning a soft chuckle from Arden. Arden shook his head. “No. It feels... familiar, like the day of your awakening, but I can’t place it.”

Before they could delve deeper, a sudden gust of wind swept through the sanctuary, rustling the leaves above them. Dominic’s head tilted slightly, his eyes narrowing as if he were listening to something no one else could hear.

“She’s close,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “The Priestess is drawing us in.”

The General, who had been conversing with the Mayor a short distance away, turned toward them. “Everything alright?” he called out, concern lacing his tone. Dominic raised a hand, signaling for silence. “Stay where you are,” he said, his tone firm but respectful. “This path isn’t for everyone.”

Leigh looked to Arden, her expression torn between curiosity and apprehension. “Should we...” she began, but before she could finish, the bracelet’s glow intensified, and a faint hum resonated from it. Without warning, the ground beneath them seemed to ripple, and a soft mist rose from the forest floor.

“This way,” Dominic said decisively, stepping forward as if following an invisible trail. Arden and Leigh exchanged a quick glance before following, the mist enveloping them as they moved deeper into the sanctuary.

The sounds of the others faded quickly, leaving only the whisper of the wind and the occasional rustle of unseen creatures. The air grew cooler, and the trees seemed to arch overhead, forming a natural cathedral. Finally, they emerged into a clearing bathed in soft, ethereal light. At its center stood a woman, her presence commanding yet serene.