The air hummed with anticipation as Sawerigading and his retinue journeyed towards Ale Cina, a place steeped in both history and unspoken tension. La Togeq Langi' voiced his worry, "What if Galigo meets I We Cudai?" Sawerigading simply hoped Galigo would understand everything.
From a hidden vantage point, I We Cudai watched the approaching group, her heart pounding. "Does Galigo still think of me as his mother?" she wondered, hoping no resentment had taken root in his heart.
During their journey, a curious Galigo asked his father, "Father, what exactly is Ale Cina?" Sawerigading replied, "It's a place full of stories, Galigo. Prepare yourself for what awaits us there."
As they continued, Galigo spotted a familiar hill. "Father, let's stop here!" he insisted. Seeing his determination, Sawerigading nodded, "Very well, a brief pause."
On the hill, Galigo noticed a group of shepherds. "Hey, all of you! Hold hands!" he commanded firmly. Confused, they obeyed. Instantly, Galigo used his supernatural power, binding them together with an invisible force. He declared, "This is the law for them!"
Lapangan Terang, witnessing the scene, commented, "Galigo, don't you think this is quite excessive?" Sawerigading watched, a mix of anger and sadness clouding his face, deeply troubled by his son's harsh actions.
After a while, Galigo led the bound shepherds towards Ale Cina. Crowds of citizens stared in astonishment, whispering about the bold young man who dared to do such a thing.
"I cannot understand why you would do this," Lapangan Terang grumbled, clearly annoyed. "They are innocent, Galigo. Release them!" Sawerigading urged, his heart heavy, dreading his son's descent into bitterness.
Finally, Galigo released them. "Quickly! Leave this place!" he shouted. The shepherds fled, not looking back, while Galigo wore a satisfied smile. "How was that, Father? I proved they needed punishment!" Sawerigading, with a heavy heart, responded, "You must learn, Galigo. There are other ways to teach a lesson, my son."
Upon arriving at Ale Cina Palace, they received a grand welcome. Galigo, however, paid little attention to the festivities, heading straight for the cockfight arena. "My rooster is ready!" he cried, full of excitement.
Sawerigading, despite his lingering worries, joined his son. "Galigo," he advised gently, "remember who you are. This isn't just about winning; it's about honor and spirit."
When their rooster won, Galigo danced with pure delight, inviting the people of Ale Cina to join him. "Let's celebrate!" he cheered, his earlier sternness replaced by infectious joy.
From a window nearby, I We Cudai heard the laughter and peeked out, her heart fluttering. "My son..." she whispered, tears of happiness streaming down her face. He had grown into an extraordinary young man.
Her gaze then shifted to Sawerigading, laughing with Galigo. "Who is that?" she asked We Tenriabeng. "That's Sawerigading," her friend replied. I We Cudai felt a complex mix of longing and pride.
On the stage, Galigo cheered, "We all won!" Joy filled the air, and cheerful songs echoed. Yet, I We Cudai's past anxieties still shadowed her heart, even amidst the present happiness.