Chapter 7: The Ultimate Test

Derik could sense Fantasia's grasp weakening as more broke free from illusions each day. Malik's schemes grew desperate in response.

One evening, the company wandered moonlit glades singing hymns when mist engulfed the wood. Within its depths whispered deceptions, sowing doubt among some newly faithful.

Derik and Serena fought to dispel the fog with prayers. But as it parted, Serena had vanished, and Malik stood in her place, smirking amid the company's cries.

My friends! Malik said in Serena's lilt. This land promises all your hearts' desires. Stay with me and leave this 'Derik' to wander alone.

The others wavered, faces blank, as Malik's influence took hold once more. Despair seized Derik, but he resisted, clinging to hope in God's promises. He cried, Brothers, sisters, break free! Remember all Serena taught us about His light within us!

Their eyes cleared gradually. One spoke: Where is our true guide? Malik scowled, his form rippling. Gone, forever! I crushed her beneath these very boughs as proof of my power. You are all mine!

Rage flushed Derik, but he hardened his heart against it. Lies will not sway me from faith, deceiver! Your power comes only through division, but ours through unity in Christ. The company rallied behind him, faith resurfacing.

Malik howled, appearing before them massively with gnashing fangs. But Derik recalled the Scriptures and led his friends in defiant prayer, surrounding Malik with its armor.

Realizing his trickery had failed, Malik fled into darkness, shrieking vile curses. The mist withdrew as dawn broke crimson, and Serena emerged unharmed, wisdom undimmed in her eyes. Through withstanding ultimate temptation, Derik's faith had emerged stronger than before.