chapter 17

(gat lontok pov)

I rode my carabao through the forest, determined to prove myself worthy of the Binukot's hand. Raja Mambang's challenge had been clear: bring back proof of my hunting prowess, and he would consider my proposal favorably. I knew that the Binukot, Raja Mambang's precious daughter, was the prize I sought, and I was willing to do whatever it took to win her hand.

I spent hours tracking and hunting, my spear and bow at the ready. I didn't discriminate between big or small game, taking down whatever I could find. The thrill of the hunt coursed through my veins, and I felt alive.

As the sun began to set, I surveyed my catch. I had managed to capture a total of 10 animals: a wild boar, a deer, a few birds, a monkey, a python, a crocodile, a fish from the river, a rabbit, a wild goat, and a snake. I loaded them onto my carriage, drawn by my sturdy carabao.

With a sense of pride, I made my way back to the palace of Tondo. I presented myself before Raja Mambang, my carriage lad