A heavy silence hung over Malimongan Palace, broken only by the faint, troubled breaths of Princess La Cudai. King Sawerigading paced, his heart a leaden weight in his chest, for his daughter lay gravely ill, and the crucial equipment needed to save her was nowhere to be found, leaving him feeling utterly helpless.
Suddenly, We Tenriabeng appeared, her presence a calm force. "Sawerigading," she began, her voice firm, "we must return to Ale Luwu. La Galigo can help us."
Sawerigading shook his head, a cold sweat beading on his temples. "He is too young, too inexperienced," he argued, his voice laced with fear. "Why repeat past mistakes?"
"But we have no other choice!" We Tenriabeng insisted, her gaze unwavering. "La Galigo can lead our forces. Time is running out for La Cudai."
Sawerigading sighed heavily, his shoulders slumping. "Very well," he conceded. "Then we must involve the allied kings. We need their agreement."
In the meeting chamber, Sawerigading explained his desperate plan. A sarcastic voice cut through the air. "Sacrifice our children for an untested prince's ambition? Let destiny guide them."
Rage consumed Sawerigading. "Hypocrites!" he roared, slamming the door after the meeting. Tears streamed down his face. "My children, you should not be caught in this adult game."
Just then, La Galigo entered, his youthful face alight with resolve. "Father, I am ready!" he declared, his voice strong. "I will do this for La Cudai. Nothing will stop me!"
Sawerigading stared, almost angry. "La Galigo, this is no game! Your very life is at stake!" he exclaimed, the danger weighing heavily on him.
"But I want to go," La Galigo countered, his eyes burning with fierce determination. "I will take this risk, and if necessary, I will give up my throne to save my sister."
Hearing his son's unwavering words, Sawerigading felt a surge of pride mixed with lingering worry. "Very well," he finally said, "if you are truly resolved, we must prepare everything."
With renewed purpose, La Galigo and Sawerigading began preparations. "We will repair the royal ship!" La Galigo shouted, his voice ringing with excitement. "We sail to Ale Luwu tonight!"
Sawerigading nodded, a new resolve firming his jaw. "Summon the guards," he commanded. "They too must be ready for the challenges ahead. There can be no hesitation."
As dusk deepened, preparations intensified. The royal ship was swiftly made ready, and a palpable excitement grew among the crew. "We will not turn back!" La Galigo cheered, inspiring them all.
With spirits high, they awaited the moonrise. The hopeful, challenging voyage to Ale Luwu was about to begin, carrying the kingdom's hopes and family's love into the night.