King Tiong Gomba paced the marble halls of his grand palace, his mind a whirl of thoughts. His beloved daughter, Putri Ayang, had made a simple request—a grand pool for bathing. Love for his daughter filled his heart, and he swiftly agreed, unaware of the destiny that awaited them.
"Father, I cannot wait to see the new pool," Putri Ayang exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
"It will be ready soon, my dear. Nothing is too great for you," King Tiong Gomba replied with a smile.
A sudden disturbance in the river halted their progress. A massive crocodile lay across their path, its scales glistening in the morning light.
"Check if it is alive," King Tiong Gomba commanded his soldiers.
The men cautiously approached the creature, reporting back with surprise. The Crocodile was very much alive, its ancient eyes watching them with a knowing intelligence.
"If you have the strength, visit the mountain where my daughter bathes," the king jested, not realizing the weight of his words.
Putri Ayang entered the pool, her laughter mingling with the sound of flowing water. Unbeknownst to her, the Crocodile had followed the king's challenge. With stealth and power, it approached, its intentions dark and relentless.
In a moment of unsuspecting bliss, Putri Ayang felt a sharp pain, her life slipping away as the water turned crimson.
Upon reaching the riverbank, he noticed something that froze his heart—a lifeless body adorned with familiar bracelets. Recognition struck him like a bolt of lightning.
"No, it cannot be!" he cried out, rushing back to his kingdom.
King Tiong Gomba knelt before the altar, his spirit broken. He vowed to meditate, seeking redemption for his unintended betrayal. His figure became a silhouette against the flickering candles, time passing unnoticed.
Her gentle voice shared stories of the kingdom's glory, urging the village to rise and reclaim their lost heritage. The echoes of her wisdom sparked hope, a flame that promised the return of honor to Mount Pararawen.
