La Mappanganro, a robust young man, had honed his cockfighting skills in Pujananting. Yet, despite his prowess, a persistent melancholy shadowed him. Unlike his peers, he yearned for a father he had never known, La Galigo, whose absence was a constant ache.
One evening, seeing other children with their parents, La Mappanganro felt a familiar ache. He approached Putri Tompo. "Mother, why has my father never come home?" he asked, his eyes reflecting a deep longing for answers.
Putri Tompo stroked his hair, her voice soft but firm. "My dear, your father is La Galigo, the revered king of Ale Cina. He was born to lead, and he is now defending his kingdom." La Mappanganro's eyes widened, a spark of awe replacing his sadness.
"Is he truly as magnificent?" La Mappanganro pressed, his spirit ignited. Putri Tompo hesitated. "My son, you are not yet mature enough for that life." But his resolve was unshakeable. "Mother, I must meet him!"
Days turned into weeks, and La Mappanganro’s training never ceased. Witnessing his dedication, Putri Tompo finally relented. "Go, then. But you must promise me you will return!" "I promise, Mother!" he vowed, embracing her tightly.
Filled with fervent hope, La Mappanganro, accompanied by his loyal retinue, set sail for Ale Cina. Throughout the voyage, he constantly imagined the moment he would finally meet his father. The sea wind carried his dreams.
Upon reaching Ale Cina, La Mappanganro bypassed bustling markets and grand palaces. His destination was clear: the cockfighting arena. He yearned to showcase his exceptional abilities, believing this was the most direct path to earning respect.
An older man, Sawerigading, was already there. "Who are you, young man?" he inquired. "I am La Mappanganro, and I wish to challenge you!" he declared. His swift victory drew cheers from the crowd.
Among the spectators, King La Galigo observed, a flicker of admiration. He sensed an unusual spirit in the young victor. Without realizing their profound connection, he felt compelled to approach, his interest piqued by the skill.
As La Galigo stepped forward, La Mappanganro’s gaze met his. Unaware this formidable man was his father, he felt a surge of audacious confidence. "Who are you?" La Galigo asked. "I challenge you, King La Galigo!" La Mappanganro declared, his voice echoing.
La Galigo studied the young man, impressed by his sheer bravery, though unaware of their familial bond. "If I lose, I shall give you two kingdoms. Do you accept this wager?" La Mappanganro responded with a confident smile. "I am ready!"
A profound tension filled the air. La Mappanganro stood poised, not merely facing an opponent, but unknowingly confronting the legendary father he had imagined. The stage was set for an epic encounter, its true significance hidden from both.