After closing the gate at the summit of Mount Agung, Arya felt an indescribable change. The world around him seemed more alive, yet heavier. Since the gate had been closed, he sensed that something was watching him, something powerful and mysterious.
His next journey led him to eastern Bali, to the village of Seraya. This village was known for its peaceful natural surroundings, yet it harbored tales of mystical forces. The villagers often spoke of khodam "protective djinn" who, it was said, chose their owners based on bravery and a pure heart.
Upon arriving in the village, Arya met Ki Lurah, a spiritual guardian who appeared to know more than just the local folklore. His face was full of wisdom, but his eyes hid deep secrets.
"Arya," Ki Lurah said, "you have touched a power greater than you realize. The gate you closed has awakened something. You will soon meet your khodam, a creature from another dimension who will become your ally. But, this is both an honor and a burden."
Arya looked at Ki Lurah in confusion. "Khodam? What is that? And why must I meet it?"
Ki Lurah smiled faintly. "A khodam is a protective djinn. They choose certain humans to protect, but they also share the responsibility of maintaining the balance of the world. You have drawn the attention of one of the strongest among them. Behind the veil of this world, there is an entity waiting Rangda, the King of the Djinn of Bali."
The name made Arya pause. Rangda was always depicted as the antagonist in Balinese legends. However, Ki Lurah continued, "Do not let the folklore cloud your understanding. Rangda is not merely a symbol of evil; she is the guardian of the balance between the human world and the supernatural realm. You must meet her."
Ki Lurah pointed toward a dense forest not far from the village. "Rangda is waiting for you there. But be careful, the forest is home to other mystical beings. Your courage will be tested."
Arya nodded and thanked Ki Lurah. After preparing himself, he entered the forest. The atmosphere inside felt strange, the rustling of the wind was like whispers, and each step he took made the silence feel heavier.
After walking for a while, he arrived at a clearing, an open space surrounded by towering trees. In the center stood a grand stone altar, covered with intricate black-and-white poleng cloth carvings. As Arya approached the altar, a powerful energy enveloped him. The air grew cold, and dark shadows emerged from behind the altar, swirling like thick smoke.
The shadows began to solidify, taking the shape of a tall figure with long flowing hair and glowing red eyes. Its face resembled the mask of Rangda Arya had seen before, but now it was alive, radiating an aura of powerful force.
"You have called me, human child," the figure said in a deep, booming voice.
Arya tried to steady himself. "You… you are Rangda?"
The figure smiled, revealing sharp teeth. "Yes. I am Rangda, the King of the Djinn of Bali. I am the guardian of the supernatural world, and I know why you have come here. You have touched a power that is beyond yourself."
Arya swallowed hard. "Why did you choose me? I am just an ordinary human."
Rangda stepped forward, her eyes gazing deep into Arya's soul. "You possess potential that ordinary humans do not. The gate you closed on Mount Agung drew my attention. You are the new balance between the human world and the supernatural realm. I will become your khodam, but you must prove yourself worthy."
"How do I do that?" Arya asked, trying to calm his fear.
Rangda raised her hand, and the world around them began to change. The forest darkened, and the sound of thunder filled the air. Supernatural creatures emerged from the darkness, ready to attack.
"This is your trial," Rangda said. "Show me that you can face the darkness, because as the one who maintains balance, you must stand firm between two worlds without fear."
Arya took a deep breath and prepared himself. With the courage he had gathered, he faced the creatures, using everything he had learned during his journey. He realized that every movement he made was being observed by Rangda, who stood motionless in the darkness, judging each step he took.
When Arya managed to defeat the creatures, Rangda nodded in approval. "You have proven yourself. From now on, I am your khodam. I will aid you, but remember, this power is a great responsibility."
With Rangda's presence by his side, Arya now had an ally from the supernatural realm like no other. However, he also realized that this journey had only just begun, and greater challenges awaited him ahead.
(To be continued...)