The young warrior La Galigo arrived in Tanete Ale Cina, his heart filled with a fierce determination to prove his worth, though a quiet longing for his home weighed on him. He had resolved not to disappoint his family, no matter the challenge.
We Tenriabeng greeted him at the palace entrance, her expression serious. "La Galigo," she announced, "you must prepare for a significant test of strength. This is not merely a celebration; it is a crucial challenge for our nation."
La Galigo's voice was firm with self-assurance. "Ready or not, I will not retreat," he declared. "The entire nation will soon know that I am capable of protecting them." His pride was evident in his stance.
As preparations advanced, whispers began to spread about toh ada Nacha, the kingdom's most formidable warrior. "He is the key to winning any future conflict!" a soldier exclaimed. Yet, many also feared him, including We Cudai, whose face showed apprehension.
La Galigo observed the gathering crowd, his sense of pride intensifying. "I will prove who truly deserves to lead here!" he shouted, inviting cheers from his loyal followers. He felt an undeniable urge to assert his authority.
In a pivotal moment, toh ada Nacha was chosen to hold the golden tray, a significant ceremonial honor. "With all due respect, I must decline," toh ada Nacha stated calmly. "My age is too advanced for me to engage in combat now."
However, La Galigo refused to accept this refusal. His anger flared, and his pride felt wounded. "If an old man will not fight, then let your son take your place!" he challenged, his voice sharp with contempt. "I am not afraid of either of you!"
"Do not underestimate my strength, La Galigo," toh ada Nacha replied, his expression turning grave. "But if you insist, then let us duel!" His challenge resonated through the silent crowd, surprising everyone.
The anticipated combat commenced. In the arena, La Galigo and toh ada Nacha faced each other, their gazes locked. A hush fell over the onlookers as both warriors prepared, their hands gripping their weapons, ready for the fierce engagement.
Suddenly, a brilliant flash of lightning startled the spectators, and torrential rain began to pour down, flooding the arena. In the ensuing chaos, the duel was abruptly halted. "We cannot fight in such weather!" We Tenriabeng cried, attempting to restore order.
As they attempted to depart the treacherous arena, another bolt of lightning unexpectedly struck toh ada Nacha. Without a chance to react, his body collapsed to the ground. "Master, no!" his distraught guards screamed, witnessing the tragic incident unfold before them.
A clamor erupted among the onlookers. "This is all La Galigo's fault!" one soldier shouted, his voice filled with fury. "This death is a direct consequence of your arrogance!" The collective anger of the people turned swiftly against the young warrior.
La Galigo's face turned pale, and he stood in stunned silence. He was suddenly overwhelmed by a profound sense of guilt, realizing that what should have been a day of celebration had tragically ended in sorrow. "What have I done?" he whispered, despair consuming him.
Outside, the entire village of Ale Cina gathered in profound grief. "Today was meant to be a blessing," We Cudai lamented, her voice heavy with sorrow, "yet it has become a stain upon our history."
As the funeral rites commenced, La Galigo sat utterly dejected, his heart heavy with regret. "I have altered everything," he murmured, vowing internally never to repeat such a grave error. The burden of his actions weighed heavily: could he still be worthy of leadership?