Indonesian Folklore (Folklor Indonesia): Tales from Nusantara (Archipelago): Bengkulu

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Sang Piatu and the Benevolent King

The Orphan's Journey: Kindness, Persistence, and Unexpected Blessings

Edisi Indoneia: Sang Piatu dan Raja yang Baik Hati

Folklore from Bengkulu

In a serene hamlet by the riverside nestled an elderly grandmother and her grandson, Sang Piatu. Their humble abode, a bamboo hut, bore witness to their simple yet contented existence. Each day, they scoured the forest for sustenance and firewood.

Sang Piatu harbored a fervent desire to learn the sacred teachings across the river, under the tutelage of the esteemed King. However, the grandmother, concerned by Sang Piatu's threadbare attire, hesitated. Yet, Sang Piatu, resolute in his pursuit, secured permission to attend the lessons outside the mosque.

Arriving at the mosque, Sang Piatu was startled when the King denied him entry due to his tattered clothing. Pleading to join the lessons from beyond the mosque's walls, the King relented under the condition that Sang Piatu wouldn't disrupt the other pupils.

Seated outside the mosque, Sang Piatu ardently absorbed the teachings by discreetly peering through the window daily. He always assured his grandmother that he was welcomed warmly by the King.

One fateful day, the King asked his students to bring offerings for a thanksgiving ceremony. Sang Piatu and his grandmother ventured into the woods, discovering a ripe but small jackfruit. Convinced it held ten seeds, they found only nine upon counting. Perplexed, the King consoled Sang Piatu by offering a special lesson.

Gratefully receiving the instruction, Sang Piatu joyously recited it on the journey home. Unbeknownst to him, the final enchanting words transformed a stone into gold. Selling the gold, Sang Piatu became prosperous.

Days later, Sang Piatu returned to the village to fetch his grandmother, inviting her to reside with him in the city. This folklore extols the virtues of perseverance and kindness, rewarded by the Divine. The tale of Sang Piatu and the Benevolent King teaches us to persevere and aspire despite limitations, fostering a sincere and kind heart, as that alone shall sow the seeds of fortune and happiness in the future.

Moral Lesson: Tenacity, Compassion, and Divine Providence

The tale of the Orphan and the King underscores the significance of perseverance when confronted with adversity. Despite being denied entry to the surau due to his ragged attire, the Orphan persisted, seeking knowledge through any means available. This resilience afforded him the chance to acquire wisdom and evolve.

Furthermore, the narrative conveys a message of compassion. The King's bestowing of special lessons as an act of kindness served to console the Orphan, ultimately ushering blessings into both their lives.

Equally significant is the theme of divine providence. Unintentionally, the Orphan's parting words brought forth a blessing—a stone transmuted into gold. This serves as a testament that fortune often arises from unexpected sources, and a genuinely kind heart serves as the catalyst to its acquisition.

This narrative imparts the importance of not succumbing to hardships but rather persisting with unwavering determination. Kindness and perseverance can yield unforeseen fortunes, as illuminated in the tale of the Orphan.

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

At the foot of a lush green mountain in Bengkulu, an old mother lived with her three daughters. They resided in a small house with a thatched roof, surrounded by dense trees and the soothing sound of a flowing river nearby. Their life was simple but filled with love. However, one day, their happiness was shaken when the mother fell gravely ill. Her body grew weak, her breaths became labored, and no ordinary remedy could cure her.

An old shaman from the village came after hearing about the mother’s illness. With a deep and authoritative voice, he said, “The only cure that can save her life is the mystical ember hidden at the mountain’s peak. But it can only be taken and cooked with fire from the mystical serpent that guards the place.”

Upon hearing this, the three daughters exchanged glances, their faces filled with fear. “Unfortunately, the serpent is very fierce,” the shaman warned.

The eldest daughter quickly shook her head. “We don’t dare,” she said, her voice full of anxiety.

The middle daughter swallowed hard, her body trembling. “We’re too afraid,” she whispered, unwilling to look at the towering mountain in the distance.

However, only the youngest daughter had the courage. Though fear filled her heart, she couldn’t bear to see her mother grow weaker each day. With firm resolve, she decided to climb the mountain the next morning.

As she began ascending the rocky and slippery path, the wind howled as if testing her determination. The higher she climbed, the quieter the surroundings became. Birds refused to sing, and only the rustling of leaves could be heard. But as she neared the peak, the earth suddenly trembled violently.

Leaves fell, tree branches swayed, and a deep rumbling sound echoed from within the forest. The youngest daughter staggered, nearly losing her footing. A wave of heat enveloped her, and she knew—the mystical serpent had sensed a human’s presence in its domain.

Her heart pounded, and fear began creeping into her mind. But then, she remembered her mother’s frail, helpless face at home. Holding her breath, she clenched her fists tightly, gathering her courage.

"May I ask for an ember to heal my mother?" the youngest daughter pleaded cautiously, her voice trembling in the midst of the eerie silence.

"I will grant it, but only if you agree to become my wife," the mystical serpent replied in a whispering voice, like the wind slipping through the trees.

The youngest daughter was stunned. She had never imagined that such a request would be made by a creature so terrifying. Her eyes wandered over the massive serpent’s body, its iridescent scales shimmering under the moonlight, its golden eyes gleaming with an intense gaze. Fear crept into her heart, yet the image of her frail mother lying helplessly at home gave her strength. She knew that without the mystical ember, her mother would not survive.

Taking a deep breath, she finally nodded. "I agree," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

The moment the words left her lips, the earth ceased trembling. The wind, which had been howling fiercely, suddenly calmed. The mystical serpent raised its head high and flicked its tail, creating a cascade of sparkling light. From its shimmering scales, a mystical ember emerged, glowing with a bluish-red hue like an eternal flame. Carefully, the youngest daughter took it and rushed home without looking back.

Loyalty and Magic

The dying mother was immediately given the medicine, cooked with the flame of the mystical ember. Slowly, the pallor on her face faded, and her frail body began to regain strength. Within days, she had fully recovered. Joy returned to their small home, yet deep inside, the youngest daughter felt a creeping unease. She knew she had made a promise, and a promise must be kept.

With a heavy heart, she prepared to return to the mountain’s peak, while her mother and two sisters watched her with confusion.

"Why would you go back there?" the eldest sister asked suspiciously.

"I made a promise to the mystical serpent," the youngest daughter answered honestly.

The middle and eldest sisters exchanged glances, feeling both puzzled and secretly relieved. They assumed their youngest sister was walking toward her own misfortune. But what they did not know was that the real adventure was only beginning.

When the youngest daughter arrived at the mountain’s peak, she braced herself to meet the enormous serpent once more. But to her surprise, instead of a snake, she found a handsome young man standing before her, dressed in a black robe embroidered with gold.

"Who are you?" she asked, bewildered.

The young man smiled, his golden eyes gleaming in the darkness. "I am the mystical serpent who made a vow to marry you," he said calmly. "At night, I return to my true form. I was once a prince, cursed to live as a serpent until a maiden willingly accepted my proposal with a sincere heart."

The youngest daughter could hardly believe what she was hearing. The fear that had gripped her heart began to melt away, replaced by a growing warmth. Without realizing it, she started to feel at ease beside the prince.

Jealousy and the Fall of the Greedy Sisters

News of the youngest daughter now living with a handsome young man soon reached the ears of her two older sisters. Jealousy burned in their hearts.

"How is it possible that she, the youngest and the one who never asked for anything, ended up with such happiness?" the eldest sister grumbled.

"We must find out her secret," the middle sister replied.

One night, they secretly followed their youngest sister to her home at the foot of the mountain. Peering through a window, they witnessed a miracle—the large serpent slithering across the floor slowly transformed into a handsome prince.

"He’s only human at night!" the middle sister whispered excitedly. "We can ruin her happiness!"

With their hearts filled with malice, they sneaked inside while their youngest sister slept and found the serpent’s shed skin, neatly folded in the corner of the room. Quickly, they took it outside and set it ablaze, hoping that the serpent would be enraged and attack their sister.

However, the opposite happened. As soon as the serpent’s skin burned, the prince, who had been sleeping, suddenly awoke, his body trembling. A burst of radiant light surrounded him, and for the first time in his life, he felt truly free.

He looked at the youngest sister with deep gratitude and said, "Now I am finally freed from the curse that has bound me for so long. Thank you—without you, I would have never become fully human."

The eldest and middle sisters, who had thought they were destroying their younger sister’s happiness, were instead shocked to realize that their actions had unintentionally freed the prince.

Ashamed that their wicked intentions had been revealed, they refused the prince’s offer to grant them a place in his kingdom. Overcome with regret, they returned to their village, carrying nothing but the hollow emptiness of their envy.

Meanwhile, the prince took the youngest daughter and her mother to his grand palace. There, they lived in unexpected joy—a destiny born from courage, loyalty, and a pure heart.

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.

Onak Berduri Sungsang

Sungsang Thorny Thistles: Seeking Peace in Conflict

Edisi Indonesia: Onak Berduri Sungsang

Folklore from Bengkulu

Two mighty warlords, Serunting Sakti and Rio Tabing, lived in ancient times in the Bengkulu region, a land rich in history and heroic traditions. These two leaders were not merely rulers of their respective territories but also figures revered for their strength and bravery. Serunting Sakti was known for his extraordinary mystical powers, while Rio Tabing possessed sharp war strategies and a loyal army.

Each of them ruled vast lands, with people who lived under their command in unwavering loyalty. However, despite their grandeur, harmony never existed between them. Their rivalry grew more intense by the day—not only over territory but also over honor and supremacy. Both believed that only one of them deserved to be the ultimate ruler, turning what began as minor disputes into an endless conflict.

This hostility did not only affect them but also their people and the natural world around them. Tension seeped into society, dividing the people into two factions—those loyal to Serunting Sakti and those who supported Rio Tabing. Even nature seemed to bear the consequences of their feud, with trembling earth and a sky often cloaked in darkness as their battles raged on.

Their battles were frequent, culminating in fierce clashes that shook the lands of Bengkulu. Both factions fought with unwavering determination, wielding sharp weapons and powerful magic they believed would secure their victory. The forces of Serunting Sakti and Rio Tabing clashed across various terrains, from dense forests to echoing hills, where the clash of steel and the cries of war filled the air.

At first, only their warriors fought on the front lines, but as time passed, innocent civilians were drawn into the vortex of conflict. Villages were reduced to ruins, fields were set ablaze, and rivers that once flowed crystal clear now ran red with blood. Neither side held a decisive advantage, as every small victory was swiftly countered by an even fiercer retaliation.

Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, yet the war showed no signs of ending. Whenever the possibility of peace arose, the flames of anger between the two leaders reignited, thwarting any attempt at negotiation. Even nature itself seemed to rage against the destruction they caused—dark clouds loomed, fierce winds howled, and the earth trembled with every great battle they waged.

Amid the growing exhaustion felt by both sides, the soldiers began to question, "How long will this war last? Will there ever be an end, or is only destruction awaiting us?" Yet, for Serunting Sakti and Rio Tabing, there was only one way to settle their dispute—through a one-on-one duel, free from the interference of their armies.

"It is better that we fight one-on-one," Serunting Sakti declared, his voice echoing across the war-torn battlefield.

"Who’s afraid?!" Rio Tabing shot back, his eyes burning with determination.

The two warriors stood tall upon the land that had been scarred by their prolonged war. The air was thick with tension as their troops watched from a distance, holding their breath, knowing that this battle would decide the fate of their lands.

With solemn focus, they prepared themselves, uttering prayers to Dewa Tenaga, the divine source of their strength. Each of them sought to harness their energy, aligning their body and spirit for the impending duel. The once-gloomy sky suddenly flickered with light, streaked with crackling flashes, as if the heavens themselves were answering their call. A surge of power erupted in the sky as their forces collided at a single point, unleashing a tremor so intense that the very earth beneath them quaked.

Not wanting to lose momentum, Rio Tabing raised his hands high, his eyes fixed on the sky with unwavering hope. "O Great One, grant me more strength!" he cried out boldly.

His plea was answered. Dewa Tenaga bestowed upon him an even greater power, causing the earth around him to surge and shift. Hills rose in an instant, towering between them like colossal walls dividing two realms. With every step Rio Tabing took, the land transformed—becoming rugged and harsh, filled with jagged thorns and upturned brambles, creating a natural barrier that was nearly impossible to cross.

Serunting Sakti observed the scene with keen eyes, realizing that their battle had transcended mere physical strength. This was no longer just a duel to prove who was stronger—it was an effort to carve a new boundary in the world they inhabited.

Then, with resolute determination, Rio Tabing drove his spear into the ground, his voice ringing out like thunder across the land. "This is the boundary of my dominion! Any descendant of Serunting Sakti who dares to cross it shall perish!" he declared.

As if heeding his oath, nature suddenly fell silent. The raging winds calmed, and the heavy gray clouds that had loomed over the sky slowly thinned. The battle that had raged for so long had finally come to an end. Yet, there was no true victor in this clash.

Both warriors stood amidst the ruin they had wrought. Their lands lay in devastation, once-fertile soil now transformed into an inhospitable terrain. At that moment, they realized that their war had not only cost them dearly but had also brought suffering to the very people they had sworn to protect.

From that day forward, the boundary set by Rio Tabing became known as Onak Berduri Sungsang, a land filled with obstacles and perils—a stark reminder to future generations that power upheld through conflict would only lead to ruin. To this day, the region remains guarded, not just by those who dwell there, but by the legend itself, passed down from one generation to the next.

Moral Message: Seek Peaceful Solutions in Conflict

The story of Sungsang Thorny Thistles emphasizes the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions in conflicts. Unresolved battles bring losses to both sides. Additionally, considering the repercussions of our actions is crucial as our decisions can profoundly impact ourselves and others. Lastly, it teaches that establishing boundaries and wielding power should be done judiciously, avoiding unnecessary losses.

The Legend of n'Daung Snake

The n’Daung Snake’s Secret: A Legend of Bravery and Promise from the Highlands of Bengkulu

A magical tale of courage, love, and ancient secrets wrapped in the mists of a mountain.

Legenda Ular n'Daung >> Edisi Indonesia

Once upon a time, nestled in the misty highlands of Bengkulu, where the morning fog dances between cinnamon trees and the wind carries whispers of ancient tales, there lived a humble widow with her three daughters. Their home stood on the edge of a forest that was said to hold secrets—echoes of spirits, hidden springs, and forgotten paths.

Each of the daughters was blessed with outer beauty, as radiant as the sunrise over Mount Kaba. Yet, as the elders in the village often said, true beauty blooms from within—and in this, the sisters were not the same.

The eldest and middle daughters, though lovely in appearance, were vain and idle. They spent their days gazing into mirrors, weaving flowers into their hair, and dreaming of a wealthy suitor who would carry them away to a life of luxury. They scoffed at hard work and often left their chores half-done, if touched at all.

But the youngest daughter, known to some as Melati, was different. She was as gentle as dew on a lotus leaf and as steady as the flowing river. From dawn to dusk, she worked tirelessly—sweeping the bamboo floor, tending their little garden, and watching over her ailing mother with quiet devotion. While her sisters turned away from hardship, Melati embraced it with grace.

The villagers often spoke of her with admiration, saying, “She is the light in that humble house.”

Little did they know, that very light would soon be tested—by a journey no ordinary girl would dare take, and by a legend that slept atop a mountain where clouds never parted.

One fateful day, their beloved mother fell gravely ill. Her breath grew shallow, and her eyes lost their light. Desperate for hope, the family turned to an old village healer, who whispered of a rare and powerful cure—a sacred plant with magical leaves.

But this was no ordinary herb. It could only reveal its healing powers if boiled over a magical fire—one that flickered with ancient spells. Both the fire and the leaves were said to exist only at the summit of Mythical Mountain—a towering peak cloaked in swirling clouds and guarded by a mystical being of legend. No one who dared the journey had ever returned.

This guardian was no ordinary creature—it was the n'Daung Snake, a powerful serpent said to possess ancient wisdom and a gaze that saw straight into one's soul. Only those with a pure heart and sincere intentions could approach it without harm.

When the mother, weak and trembling, asked her daughters to climb the mountain and seek the cure, the eldest scoffed.
"Climb a mountain for some leaves? Let the youngest go."
The middle daughter turned away.
"I won’t risk meeting a serpent just for old stories."

And so, it was the youngest daughter who stepped forward, her eyes steady though her hands trembled. Her love for her mother was stronger than her fear.

“I will go, Mother,” she said softly, kneeling beside the old woman. “I’ll find the leaves and bring back the magical fire for you.”

Though brave in words, her heart thudded in her chest. The stories of the n’Daung Snake echoed in her mind—its glimmering scales, its powerful magic, and the way it guarded Mythical Mountain with a watchful eye. But still, she packed a small bundle of rice, a piece of cloth scented with her mother’s perfume, and began her journey.

She climbed for days, through whispering bamboo forests and misty cliffs. Wind howled at night, and the stars blinked like tiny guides. At last, she reached a shadowy cave nestled between two flowering trees at the peak of the mountain.

Inside the cave, glowing gently in the dim light, were the sacred leaves—their edges shimmering like silver threads under moonlight. Beside them danced the magical fire, a flickering flame of blue and gold that gave no smoke, only warmth and wonder.

Just as the girl stepped forward to gather them, the earth gave a sudden tremble.

Hissss...

A low, ancient sound echoed through the stone walls, like wind rustling through centuries of forgotten memories.

Then, from the shadows, a large figure emerged.

In the blink of an eye, the n’Daung Snake was in front of her—towering, majestic, and unlike any creature she had seen. His eyes gleamed like polished jade, and golden patterns coiled across his scales like the calligraphy of forgotten legends.

“Who are you, young one? What brings you to my sacred cave?” the snake asked—not with a growl, but with a voice both calm and wise.

The girl trembled, but she was more surprised than afraid. For a creature so feared, the n’Daung Snake spoke with gentleness and dignity.

Gathering her courage, she bowed and spoke: “My name is Melati. I came for my mother—she is very ill. I ask only for the sacred leaves and the fire to cure her. I have nothing else to offer but my honesty.”

The snake studied her in silence for a long moment. Then, he spoke again, his voice soft but firm.

“You may take them...” he said, “but in return, you must promise to be my bride. Do you agree?”

Melati’s heart skipped. She hadn’t expected such a request. But she didn’t hesitate.

“I agree,” she said, her voice steady with love and determination. “If that is the price, then so be it.”

Moved by her sincerity, the n’Daung Snake lowered his head. A torch, already lit by the magical fire, floated gently toward her, and the glowing leaves folded themselves into a satchel of woven mist.

With tears in her eyes, she took them and ran down the mountain. Her mother was cured the very next day, her color returning, her breath strong again.

But a promise is a promise.

One quiet evening, without a word to anyone, Melati packed her things and returned to the mountain. As twilight cloaked the forest in purples and golds, she entered the cave once more.

To her surprise, the cave glowed differently now—warmer, almost inviting. And waiting inside was not a serpent, but a handsome young man dressed in royal robes.

“Don’t be afraid,” he said, smiling kindly. “My name is Prince Abdul Rahman Alamsjah. My uncle cursed me long ago, turning me into a snake during the day.”

Melati gasped, understanding everything at once.

“My uncle feared I would become a just king and tried to keep me hidden forever... until you came.”

Meanwhile, down in the village, Melati’s mother grew worried. Her youngest daughter had vanished without a word. With growing concern and guilt, she set off to find her—accompanied, reluctantly, by the older daughters. Though they did not admit it, curiosity stirred in their hearts… especially about the mysterious n’Daung Snake.

After days of searching, they reached the mountain and climbed through twilight mist until they arrived at the sacred cave. Evening had already blanketed the sky in hues of violet and gold.

There, they saw something that left them stunned.

Inside the cave stood Melati, not alone, but beside a handsome young man whose presence seemed to glow with noble grace. When they learned the man was Prince Abdul Rahman Alamsjah, the very same being once known as the n’Daung Snake, the sisters’ eyes burned—not with wonder, but jealousy.

“How could she, the youngest, win the heart of a prince?” they muttered among themselves.

Driven by envy, they crept into the cave later that night and discovered the snake skin—coiled and folded like a silken robe, shimmering faintly with ancient magic.

“If we burn this,” whispered the eldest, “he will lose his power. Maybe he’ll turn back into a snake forever. Then he’ll forget her.”

So, they did. They tossed the enchanted skin into the fire.

But the flames didn’t hiss with doom—they roared with freedom.

A powerful light surged through the cave. The curse that had long bound the prince shattered like glass.

Prince Abdul Rahman Alamsjah stood taller, brighter than before. His voice rang clear and strong as he turned to the trembling sisters.

“You have burned my past,” he said calmly, “but in doing so, you have set me free.”

Realizing what they had done, the sisters hung their heads in shame. Their plan had failed—and their jealousy laid bare.

The prince turned to Melati with a soft smile. “Come with me to the palace, my beloved. You have given me more than freedom—you gave me love without conditions.”

He also turned to her mother and bowed respectfully. “Your daughter’s heart healed more than a curse. Please, come and live with us. You shall want for nothing.”

And so, Melati, her mother, and Prince Abdul Rahman Alamsjah returned to the kingdom, where he reclaimed his rightful throne and imprisoned the uncle who had wronged him.

As for the two older sisters, they could not bear the shame of their actions. They chose to remain in the cave, far from the palace gates. Some say they spent their days reflecting, hoping that one day, they too might earn redemption.

💖 Moral Message: Be Kind, Be Brave, and Keep Your Promise

This story teaches us that being kind and keeping our promises is very important.
Melati, the youngest daughter, was brave and honest even though she was scared. She helped her mother out of great love and never broke her promise to the n'Daung Snake.

Her older sisters felt jealous and tried to cheat, but their plan failed. In the end, something good came out of it. This shows us that jealousy can bring harm, but honesty and a sincere heart can open the path to happiness.

📝 Reflective Note:

In classic stories like this, we sometimes find that love is asked for as a condition or a promise. This can make us wonder: Can true love really be traded or demanded?

It’s important to remember that tales like this often use symbols. The n’Daung Snake may not simply represent someone asking for love, but rather a life trial—bringing a difficult choice, testing the heart.
Melati didn’t love him because he asked, but because she saw the goodness hidden behind a frightening form. She chose with awareness and sincerity, not because of force.

💡 From this, we learn that love born from courage, sincerity, and mutual respect is far more valuable than love that is bought or bargained for. 🌱

Please Read More Stories!

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The Legend of the Seven-Headed Snake

Legenda Ular Berkepala Tujuh >> Edisi Indonesia

Folklore from Bengkulu

THE people of Kutei Rukam Kingdom in Lebong, Bengkulu, were happy. The Crown Prince Gajah Meram would marry a princess from Suka Negeri Kingdom. King Bikau Bermano asked his people to prepare a great party.

One of the wedding procession was the bride and the bridegroom had to take a bath in the bath Lake. when they were swimming, suddenly the prince and the princess were gone. The soldier immediately jumped into the lake. But they could not find the prince and the princess. They were absolutely confused why the prince and the princess suddenly disappeared.

The king was sad. He asked all the soldiers to swim. But still the prince and the princess could not be found. Later an old holy man came to the king. He said that the prince and the princess were kidnapped by the seven-headed snake. He was the king of the snake and he had many snake soldiers. The only person that could help was a young man who had great skills in martial arts and supernatural power.

The young man he meant was the king's youngest son. His name was Prince Gajah Merik. He was also the student of the holy man. The king was very touched when the Prince Gajah Merik was willing to find his older brother and his brother's wife.

The holy man gave Prince Gajah Merik was not afraid of them. Instead, he fought them bravely. The snake soldiers could not fight him. Gajah Merik was so powerful. He could easily kill the snake soldiers.

And finally he was face-to-face with the snake king. He was a seven-headed snake. He was very angry!

"Hey, you human! Why did you kill all my soldiers?" asked the snake king.

"They tried to stop me. I want to free my older brother and his wife."

"I will free them. But you have to do two things. First you have to make my dead soldiers live again. And second, you have to beat me of course. Hahaha."

With his power, Gajah Merik touched the dead snakes. Amazingly, they lived again. Then, the prince and the snake king were fighting.

Unlike the snake soldiers, the snake king was very powerful. He almost killed Gajah Merik. Fortunately, Gajah Merik had better skills. And after fighting for seven days. Gajah Merik won the fight. The snake king asked Gajah Merik to forgive him and let him free. Gajah Merik felt sorry and he let the snake king and his soldiers go away.

Later, Gajah Merik brought Gajah Meram and his wife back to the palace. The king was very happy. He also planned to make Gajah Meram to be the new king. However, Gajah Meram refused it. He said Gajah Merik was better to be the next king. He was very courageous and powerful. He also had great heart. He was willing to sacrifice himself.

Gajah Merik agreed to be the next king. But he asked his father to let the snake king and his soldiers to be his soldiers. The king agreed. Since then, the snake king and his soldiers became the soldiers of Gajah Merik.

Until now, people in Lebong, Bengkulu, believe that there is a seven-headed snake who guards the Test lake. They do not dare to say bad words when crossing the lake. Otherwise, the seven-headed snake will be angry!***

Please Read More stories!

Pahit Lidah: The Legend of Tes Lake

Pahit Lidah: The Legend of Tes Lake – The Man Whose Words Shaped Reality

Legenda Danau Tes | Edisi Indonesia

Long ago, in the village of Kutei Donok, Bengkulu, lived a man named Pahit Lidah. His name, which meant "Bitter Tongue," was not given to him without reason—he possessed a mysterious and powerful gift. Whatever he spoke would come true. Because of this, Pahit Lidah was always cautious with his words, knowing that even the slightest utterance could shape reality itself.

The Journey to the New Land

Pahit Lidah had a son whom he deeply loved. One day, he decided to clear a new rice field outside the village. As custom dictated, he first sought permission from the village chief, who granted it without hesitation.

With his hoe slung over his shoulder, Pahit Lidah set off on his journey, walking for hours until he reached a vast and fertile land near the Air Ketahun River. It was the perfect spot. Without wasting any time, he plunged his hoe into the earth and began his work.

Pahit Lidah was no ordinary man—his strength was legendary. While an average farmer would take weeks to clear a field, he labored tirelessly day and night without rest. With every powerful swing of his hoe, clumps of earth were flung into the river.

As the days passed, the pile of soil in the river grew larger, disrupting the natural flow of water. The villagers, noticing the changes, grew concerned. The once-clear waters of the river were now murky, struggling to pass through the accumulating barrier of dirt. If this continued, they feared, the river would overflow and flood their village.

A Desperate Plea

Realizing the danger, the villagers rushed to their chief.

“If Pahit Lidah does not stop, the river will be completely blocked, and we will lose our homes!” they pleaded.

The village chief, a wise man, understood that convincing Pahit Lidah would not be easy.

“Go to him,” he commanded some of the villagers. “Try to persuade him to return. If he refuses, tell him that his son has died.”

The villagers gasped at the cruel suggestion, but they trusted their leader’s wisdom. With heavy hearts, they set off toward the river.

Upon reaching Pahit Lidah, they begged him to stop.

“Pahit Lidah, please return home. If you keep throwing soil into the river, we will all suffer!” they cried.

But Pahit Lidah, consumed by his work, barely acknowledged them.

Desperate, they delivered the false news.

“Your son is dead,” they said solemnly.

Pahit Lidah stopped for a moment. Then, with unwavering confidence, he shook his head.

“That is impossible. My son is alive.”

The villagers looked at each other, defeated. They had failed. No one could make Pahit Lidah believe a lie. They returned to the village and reported to the chief.

The Power of Words

Seeing no other choice, the chief himself went to speak with Pahit Lidah.

“Pahit Lidah,” he said firmly. “Enough. Come home. Your son is dead.”

Silence fell over the land. This time, Pahit Lidah did not answer immediately. He looked at the chief, the weight of those words sinking deep into his heart. Unlike before, doubt crept into his mind.

The chief was a respected man—he would not lie. If he had spoken the words, then surely, they must be true.

Pahit Lidah’s breath grew heavy. His hands trembled as he gripped his hoe. He had always believed his son was safe. But now… he could not deny it any longer.

"Because you have said it… now I believe it. My son is truly dead," he whispered.

The Birth of Tes Lake

A storm of emotions raged within him—grief, anger, regret. He had spoken the truth into existence. His once-powerful gift now felt like a curse.

His sorrow turned into fury. He raised his hoe once more, striking the ground with renewed force. He no longer cared about the river, the land, or the village.

He dug. He dug and dug.

The soil piled higher, the river choked, and the water had nowhere to go.

Within days, the river was completely blocked. The water pooled into a vast, new body—a lake.

The villagers, both awed and horrified, named it Tes Lake.

Even today, the lake remains, a silent reminder of a man whose words held power beyond imagination. And so, the legend of Pahit Lidah lives on—a tale of caution, fate, and the undeniable weight of words.

Moral Messages

The legend of Pahit Lidah and Tes Lake carries several moral lessons about the power of words, responsibility, and consequences. Here are the key takeaways:

1. Words Have Power – Be Careful What You Say 🗣️

Pahit Lidah’s ability to make things come true with his words symbolizes how what we say can have lasting effects. Careless words, even if spoken in frustration or belief, can bring unintended consequences. This teaches us to think before we speak—because once something is said, it can’t be easily undone.

2. Belief Shapes Reality – The Power of Conviction 🔮

The story suggests that what we believe deeply can shape our reality. Pahit Lidah’s power only worked when he was truly convinced. This reflects how our thoughts and beliefs influence our actions and outcomes in life.

3. Regret Comes Too Late – Think Before You Act ⚖️

By the time Pahit Lidah realized his mistake, it was too late. His grief and anger led him to act recklessly, which caused a disaster (the formation of Tes Lake). This teaches us to make decisions wisely and consider the consequences of our actions before it's too late.

4. Don’t Let Emotion Control Your Actions 😢🔥

After learning about his son's death, Pahit Lidah became overwhelmed with anger and grief, causing him to continue digging furiously. His emotions clouded his judgment and led to destruction. This reminds us that acting out of rage or sadness can lead to irreversible mistakes.

5. Nature and Human Actions Are Connected 🌿🌊

Pahit Lidah’s unchecked actions changed the landscape forever. This can be seen as a lesson about how human actions affect the environment—if we act recklessly, we can create unintended damage.

Moral of the Story in One Line:

"Think before you speak or act—because words and actions have consequences that cannot always be undone."

Danau Tes(Tes Lake)

Princess Serindang Bulan

The Princess with the Red Spots: Embracing Acceptance and Finding True Kindness

Putri Serindang Bulan | Edisi Indonesia

Indonesian Folklore Webpage

Folklore from Bengkulu

Princess Serindang Bulan was the cherished daughter of King Mawang, ruler of a peaceful kingdom nestled in the green hills of Lebong, Bengkulu. As the youngest of seven children—and the only girl—she was deeply loved by her father and watched over fondly by her six older brothers.

But a shadow fell upon the kingdom. King Mawang grew weak with a mysterious illness that no healer, herbalist, or wise sage could cure. The palace was filled with the scent of bitter roots and herbal brews, but nothing helped. Despite the best efforts of his children and loyal court, the king’s condition worsened, and after many quiet moons, he peacefully passed away.

His passing left the kingdom in sorrow. Following tradition, the eldest son was crowned the new king. Though heavy with grief, the people hoped the new ruler would carry on the kindness and wisdom of his father. Princess Serindang Bulan, still young and gentle-hearted, found comfort in her garden, her books, and in watching the stars—where she believed her father now watched over her.

Princess Serindang Bulan was renowned for her grace and beauty, her presence said to rival the moonlight that bore her name. Since the passing of their father, her eldest brother had ruled the kingdom of Lebong. Though he carried the weight of the crown with determination, his concern for the kingdom’s future often made him strict—especially with matters of royal duty.

One morning, he summoned the princess to the palace hall. His tone was firm, yet not unkind.

"You are no longer a child, Serindang Bulan," he said. "It is time you fulfilled your royal duty. A prince from a respected neighboring kingdom has expressed his wish to marry you. He will arrive tomorrow. Prepare yourself."

The words struck her like thunder on a calm sea. Serindang Bulan’s heart sank. Though she bore the smile of a royal, her soul felt caged. She wished to marry for love, not alliance.

But she bowed her head softly and replied, "If it is your will, Brother, I shall be ready to receive him."

As she left the hall, the weight of duty settled on her slender shoulders. That night, while the stars shimmered above the palace garden, she quietly wished for a kindness that went deeper than appearances—and for the strength to face whatever destiny awaited her.

The king was deeply embarrassed by what had happened. In his eyes, a royal rejection was a public shame, and he feared others would mock his family. When the princess recovered without medicine the next day, it only added to the mystery.

“Strange,” he muttered. “It’s as if the spots come and go at will.”

But before long, another prince came from a distant land, bearing gifts and flowery words of love. Once again, Serindang Bulan prepared herself with quiet grace, though her heart remained uncertain.

And once again, the red spots returned—blossoming across her skin like a warning only she could understand.

Just as before, the prince took one look at her and recoiled in surprise. He politely made an excuse and quickly left the palace, taking his proposal with him.

This happened not once, not twice, but again and again. Every time a suitor came with dreams of marrying the princess, the red spots would appear. And every time they vanished just after the prince walked away.

Whispers began to spread throughout the kingdom. Some said it was a curse. Others believed the princess had a strange illness. But none saw the pattern. None understood the quiet sorrow hidden in her eyes.

The king, who now ruled with pride and stubbornness, grew angrier with each passing rejection.

“This cannot go on!” he roared. “She brings shame to the royal house!”

Consumed by his frustration and fear of disgrace, the king made a heartless decision.

He called one of his most loyal soldiers and gave him a terrible command.

“Take Serindang Bulan to the deep jungle. Tell no one. Do what must be done—she must not return.”

The soldier hesitated, shocked by the cruelty of the order. But he was sworn to obey.

So, one quiet morning, as the princess was tending the garden alone, she was summoned by the soldier… unaware of the journey that would change her fate forever.

The soldier led Princess Serindang Bulan deep into the jungle, his heart heavy with sorrow. When they reached a quiet riverbank, he could no longer hold back his emotions.

“My Princess,” he said softly, kneeling before her, “I cannot obey the king’s order. He commanded me to end your life… but I see no illness—only sorrow in your eyes and kindness in your heart.”

The princess looked at him in shock, her breath caught in her throat.

“I will not harm you,” he continued. “Instead, I’ve carved a small sampan from strong wood. It will carry you down the river. Go, find a place where your heart can be safe and free.”

Tears welled in her eyes—not just from fear, but from gratitude. “Thank you,” she whispered. “You have given me more than just a chance to live. You’ve given me hope.”

She climbed into the sampan and slowly rowed down the winding river, surrounded by trees that whispered their blessings. For days, she traveled under the sun and stars, carried by the river’s gentle current until she reached the shores of a peaceful kingdom.

Curious villagers spotted the tired young woman and brought her to their kind-hearted king. He listened intently as the princess, with honesty and grace, shared her tale—the mysterious red spots, the broken proposals, and the pain of being cast away by her own brother.

The king was deeply moved. “You are safe here,” he said warmly. “And I believe there is more to your story than a disease. Let me try to help you.”

He placed his hand gently over hers and closed his eyes. This king, gifted with ancient healing wisdom, sensed that the red spots were not a sickness—but a reflection of unkind hearts who judged her only for her beauty.

With his compassion and magic, the burden was lifted. The red spots disappeared—and this time, they did not return.

The princess smiled, truly and freely. In the days that followed, joy bloomed between them. The king admired her strength and warmth, and she saw in him the kindness she had always longed for.

In time, they decided to marry.

But the princess, ever gentle-hearted, made a special request: “I wish to invite my brothers, even the one who cast me away. Let them see that my heart still forgives.”

The king agreed, and messengers were sent. When the brothers received the invitation, they were stunned and ashamed. The oldest brother, now king, wept when he read the letter.

“She still thinks of us… even after all we did?”

With heavy hearts and heads bowed low, the brothers came to the wedding. They knelt before Serindang Bulan, tears in their eyes. “Forgive us,” they pleaded. “We were wrong.”

The princess gently lifted their hands. “You are forgiven,” she said. “Let us begin again.”

From that day forward, Queen Serindang Bulan ruled beside her husband—not just with beauty, but with a heart full of grace and kindness. Her people loved her deeply, for she had taught them something greater than magic: the strength of compassion, and the light of forgiveness.

🌿 The Power of Kindness and Compassion

This tale reminds us that true beauty lies in the heart. Serindang Bulan faced rejection and cruelty, but she never stopped hoping for kindness—and never stopped offering it in return.

Whether through a brave soldier, a kind king, or the forgiveness of a queen, this story shows that:

✨ “Kindness can heal wounds that even magic cannot. Compassion brings light even to the darkest times.”

Would you like a watercolor-style illustration for this final part of the story too?