King Tiong Gomba stood on the terrace of his grand palace, surveying his realm with a deep sense of pride. His gaze softened as it landed on Putri Ayang, his beloved daughter, who played joyfully in the garden below. "Anything for you, my dear," he mused, recalling her latest wish for a pool to bathe in. The king was determined to fulfill her every desire.
King Tiong Gomba led his caravan toward Kayu Tangi village, pausing only when a massive crocodile blocked their path. "Is it still alive?" he commanded his soldiers to check. The reptile's eyes glinted with a mysterious intelligence, and as it slithered away, the king called after it, "Prove your might, and find my daughter on the mountain."
Putri Ayang, unaware of the lurking danger, waded into the pool, her laughter echoing through the night. Suddenly, the water rippled with unnatural force, and a shadow emerged, moving with deadly intent. The air was pierced by a single, chilling scream before silence reclaimed the night.
King Tiong Gomba dismounted swiftly upon seeing the lifeless form by the riverbank. His heart clenched as he recognized the bracelets adorning the wrist—his daughter's. "No... it cannot be!" he cried, falling to his knees, the weight of his regret crushing him.
King Tiong Gomba's mind spiraled into madness, tormented by visions of Putri Ayang's accusing eyes. Her spirit lingered, fueled by a desire for vengeance against the creature that had betrayed her. "I will find peace only in darkness," the king murmured, his voice a mere whisper in the void.
The story of King Tiong Gomba and Putri Ayang endures, a cautionary tale of pride and consequence. Locals say that on still nights, the wind carries the sound of a princess's laughter, echoing in the valleys—a reminder of the kingdom that once was.
