"Alright, my child… have you truly subdued the Keris Kala Niskala as its master?" asked Ancestor Nala, his voice deep and his piercing eyes seeming to penetrate the layers of Baskara's soul.
"I gave you one offensive skill from the kris," he continued. "This technique is called Piercer of the Heart's Core. As the name suggests, not only the physical heart will be pierced, but the opponent's soul core can also be torn apart. But know this—the technique doesn't stop at one form. It can be developed… even to an extreme level. I myself don't know its limits."
Ancestor Nala's voice carried both awe and caution. "This technique depends on the depth of your soul. Its power varies in each realm. Some are weak, some strong, and others are protected by soul treasures. If you meditate on this technique to its highest peak… I'm not sure even a soul treasure could withstand it."
He took a deep breath before continuing. "You know why the Keris Kala Niskala was kept in the ancestral land, don't you? It's because this kris doesn't just absorb the surrounding spiritual energy, it also reflects karma. Just like we can bear the burden of past mistakes, this kris can return them to their source."
He stared deeply into Baskara. "To be honest… I've never used the kris myself. It's a relic from ancestors long before my time. And fortunately, Eyang Pradipa managed to retrieve it first, before it fell into the hands of the Surya family."
"Of course, I agree that the kris was given to you," he said firmly. "Because you're no ordinary child, Baskara. Even among the noble families or great schools… I've never seen anyone like you. You are rare. Your potential—I can't explain it. Whether it's due to innate wisdom, or perhaps your destiny is already woven into the fabric of the universe."
He nodded slowly. "We used to only teach martial arts… a little meditation, and a bit of enlightenment. But you—without special guidance, broke through the limits. You passed through realm after realm alone. And now… the proof is right in front of me."
"And remember, Baskara… in this conflict, you must stay focused on your training," said Eyang Pradipa gently but with emphasis. "Don't get involved, even if it concerns the nobles. Our family has its own protection, even if the Tirta Negara nobles truly fall. And believe me, the ancestors won't stay idle if their family is in danger."
His words were not just advice but also a warning filled with affection. Eyang Pradipa knew that his grandson was no ordinary boy.
Baskara simply nodded, his face showing deep understanding. Though still young, his mind far surpassed his age.
"Very well, Grandfather," Baskara replied firmly. "I will focus on learning this technique… and fully understanding the treasures of this temple."
He could feel the hidden concern in the hearts of his two ancestors. That only strengthened his resolve.
"Good. That eases us," said Ancestor Nala with a slow nod.
"And this is also for you," Ancestor Nala said as he raised his left palm.
From within the meditative chamber, silent and filled with spiritual aura, appeared a jet-black piece of leather. On its surface were glowing white runes that seemed alive, pulsing in sync with space and time. The pattern was foreign, yet carried profound meaning only understood by those who comprehend the language of the soul.
"This is the Soul Storage Hide," Ancestor Nala continued. "It can store items up to one cubic unit. I've already filled it with spiritual plants, rare medicinal ingredients, and basic rune techniques—so you can learn them gradually."
The hide was handed to Baskara, who received it with deep respect.
"Thank you, Ancestor," said Baskara, bowing deeply in gratitude. He knew this gift was not merely a token, but a symbol of trust and great hope from his ancestor.
Though not given the entire legacy, Baskara understood that what he received was the essence of true inheritance: knowledge, power, and a path for growth. Even Eyang Pradipa beside him could feel how much Ancestor Nala cared for his grandson. He understood that this valuable resource was given not just out of affection, but also with consideration for the family's future.
If Baskara became strong in the future, their family faction would also rise in power, potentially advancing in the hierarchy of the great families.
Seeing this sincerity, Eyang Pradipa also bowed in respect. "Thank you, Ancestor."
But Ancestor Nala only smiled calmly. "No need to thank me. You are my descendants. It is only right that I care for you. But in return…"—his gaze sharpened though his voice remained steady—"…you must also protect our family in the future."
"Of course, Ancestor," Eyang Pradipa replied firmly.
"Very well, then. You may now return to your respective duties," Ancestor Nala said, calmly but with great authority, bringing the meeting to a close.
And thus, their conversation ended, wrapped in a profound calm.
Eyang Pradipa slowly left the temple, returning to his residence to continue his role as family leader. His steps were steady, but his eyes held hope for his grandson's future.
Meanwhile, Baskara walked toward the ancestral grounds, back to his place of meditation. His heart was filled with resolve, carrying the legacy of knowledge, hope, and duty he now bore in silence. There, he would delve into the inherited techniques, study the contents of the Soul Storage Hide, and continue his journey through the spiritual realms.
Behind the temple's silence, Ancestor Nala sat once more in meditation. But his awareness expanded, stretching far across space and time. He was not just meditating, but keeping watch—watching over his family from behind the unseen veil. Though his eyes were closed, he could still perceive the coming danger… and the hope now blooming in a young soul named Baskara.
That night returned to silence, though never truly empty. For in that silence, fate was slowly being written by the hands of the ancestors.
In a grand mansion resembling a palace, guards moved vigilantly at every corner, sharp and dignified. Rows of luxury cars stood in the yard, witnesses to the noble family's splendor. Inside the lavish main hall sat a dignified man in regal attire—a batik robe bearing the motifs of the Tirta Negara noble family.
He was Adipati Wirasantra Matwadewa, head of the Tirta Negara noble family. His jet-black hair was neatly combed, with a thick mustache emphasizing his commanding face. He sat in the primary seat of the family leader, calmly puffing a cigarette, his eyes sharp and calculating.
"So… when will the heads of the tier-one to tier-three families come here and give their answers?" he asked flatly but firmly.
"It seems they're arriving now, Sir," replied a servant standing beside him. This servant was not an ordinary aide, but also managed the Duke's daily schedule.
"Very well then, prepare the banquet. We'll welcome them properly," Wirasantra replied with a thin smile, full of implication. "And make sure our elders are ready too. This is no ordinary feast."
In the heart of Tirta Negara city, a towering skyscraper stood—home to the Jayakarta noble family. Around it, heavily armed guards patrolled with utmost discipline. This building was not just a symbol of power, but also a political and spiritual fortress not to be underestimated.
In the grand hall—used exclusively for family councils—the Jayakarta nobles were gathered. The atmosphere was heavy and tense. They were discussing one major issue: the battle for the Eternal Flame Gem, a spiritual relic now in the hands of the Tirta Negara noble family.
"So, have you gathered all the information?" asked a burly man seated on the main throne, clad in golden-layered ceremonial batik. He was Mahadipa Darmasena, head of the Jayakarta noble family—the most powerful noble from the capital, with influence far beyond this city.
"Yes, Sir," replied his loyal servant, who also served as the family's right hand. He handed a sophisticated electronic device to Mahadipa.
Mahadipa nodded, browsing the data carefully. "Hmm… just as I thought," he muttered with a smirk. "The Atmadewa family are cowards. They're relying on tier-one to tier-three families just to guard one relic. Hahaha… pathetic!"
His eyes narrowed, filled with schemes. "Very well then, let's first send a little surprise to those petty families daring to aid them. We'll cut off their support lines…"