The Magical Snake and the Youngest Daughter

Journey of Bravery: Loyalty and the Repercussions of Deceit

Edisi Indonesia: Ular Gaib dan Si Bungsu

Folklore from Bengkulu

In the foothills of Bengkulu's mountains, an elderly mother lived with her three daughters. When illness struck the mother, a village shaman prescribed a cure: magical embers from the mountain's summit, ignited by the flames of a mystical snake.

"The snake is ferocious," cautioned the shaman.

"We're too scared," admitted the eldest.

"I can't do it either," echoed the middle daughter.

Only the youngest possessed the courage to embark on this quest. Despite trembling earth signaling the snake's presence, fear gripped her. Yet, driven by love for her mother, she persisted.

"May I take a coal to heal my mother?" she asked the mystical snake cautiously.

"I will grant it if you agree to be my partner," unexpectedly responded the snake. For her mother's recovery, the youngest consented.

Upon her mother's recovery, the youngest returned to honor her promise. To her surprise, the snake transformed into a striking young man by night.

The Eldest and Middle, envious of this discovery, devised a deceitful act. They stole and incinerated the snake's skin, aiming to harm the youngest.

Instead, the burnt skin stripped the man of his ability to transform.

The man revealed he was a cursed prince. He escorted the youngest and her mother to his kingdom. Meanwhile, the Eldest and Middle declined, burdened by shame from their actions.

Moral Message: Valor and Integrity

This tale underscores the essence of bravery and staying true to commitments. The youngest displayed exceptional courage in the face of adversity, driven by love for her mother. Her unwavering dedication to promises echoes the importance of integrity and accountability for words spoken. Conversely, the actions of deceit and envy by the Eldest and Middle illuminate the repercussions of dishonesty and malice, bearing undesirable outcomes.