The temple at Mount Agung was one of the largest centers of spiritual energy in Bali, making it a primary target for Lilith, the seductive demon and cunning ruler of darkness. Along with her spectral army, Lilith had already taken control of much of the temple area, tainting the sacred energy around it with an aura of darkness.
Arya, Rangda, and Barong immediately set out for Mount Agung. Along the way, they could feel the change in energy, the air grew heavier, the sounds of nature seemed to vanish, and a chilling atmosphere enveloped every step they took.
"Lilith is different from Azazel," Rangda warned. "She doesn't just rely on strength. She's a master manipulator, able to twist the thoughts and emotions of anyone."
Arya swallowed nervously, but he also felt the power within him growing since his last trial. Barong, walking beside him, gave him additional confidence with his strong and authoritative presence.
The Cursed Temple
When they arrived near the temple, they saw striking changes. The temple's holy light had been replaced by a dark red aura, and the guardian statues around the temple were cracked and damaged. Shadowy figures, Lilith's minions, moved silently among the ruins.
Barong halted his steps. "We can't attack directly. Lilith has likely set traps."
Rangda nodded. "We need to break her energy. The source of her power is at the main altar. If we can purify it, we can weaken Lilith."
They divided their tasks: Rangda would face the demonic shadows around the temple, Barong would guard the perimeter to prevent more darkness from entering, while Arya was tasked with reaching the main altar to perform the purification with the help of Rangda's spiritual mask.
"This is a big responsibility," Barong said to Arya. "But I believe you can do it."
Facing Lilith
Arya approached the main altar cautiously. When he arrived, Lilith was already waiting. Her figure was beautiful yet terrifying, her pale, glowing skin and red eyes that burned like fire.
"You finally arrived, little human," Lilith said with a cold smile. "What makes you think you can fight against power like mine?"
Arya felt fear crawl up his spine, but he remembered Rangda's words: Don't let her into your mind.
"I'm here to protect the balance," Arya replied firmly, though his voice slightly trembled.
Lilith laughed. "Balance? This world doesn't need balance. Darkness is its destiny."
Lilith extended her hand, and a large shadow attacked Arya. Arya raised Rangda's mask, and a protective energy radiated, repelling the attack. Lilith looked surprised but did not relent.
"Very well," she said, her smile turning into a cruel grin. "Let's see how long you can endure."
The battle between Arya and Lilith began. Lilith attacked with illusions and shadows, trying to confuse Arya. However, Arya used the power of Rangda's mask to repel the darkness and focus his mind.
In the midst of the battle, Lilith attempted to manipulate Arya by digging into his fears. "You know you're not strong enough," she said. "Why do you keep fighting? You will fail, and everything you love will be lost."
But Arya remained unaffected. He remembered all the lessons he had learned from Rangda and Barong. He closed his eyes, focused his spiritual energy, and retaliated with full force.
Purification of the Altar
After an intense battle, Arya managed to drive Lilith back, though he knew this was not the end. With Lilith weakened, Arya focused his energy on the main altar. He used Rangda's mask to purify the tainted energy.
Bright white light radiated from the altar, spreading throughout the temple and the surrounding forest. The demonic shadows vanished, and the temple's sacred aura returned to its original form.
Lilith, wounded, glared at Arya with fury. "You may have won this time, human," she said before disappearing into the darkness. "But this battle is far from over."
A Glimpse of Hope
When everything finally calmed down, Rangda and Barong joined Arya at the altar.
"You've proven yourself once again, Arya," Rangda said. "But Lilith won't give up. She will return with even greater power."
"We've given them our first resistance," Barong added. "And that's enough for now. But we must prepare for what comes next."
Arya nodded, though his body was exhausted. He knew this was just the beginning of a long struggle.
(To be continued...)