The Tale of the Golden Cucumber **

** Once upon a time, in a small village nestled amidst lush green fields, lived a kind old woman named Mbok Ratih. She lived alone in a humble hut, her only companion a small garden where she grew vegetables. One day, while tending to her garden, she discovered a strange, golden cucumber growing amongst her usual crops. It was unlike anything she had ever seen before, shining brightly in the sunlight. Mbok Ratih, curious and excited, carefully picked the golden cucumber and brought it home. She decided to cook it for dinner, hoping it would taste as delicious as it looked. As she sliced the cucumber, a beautiful young woman emerged from its center. The woman, who introduced herself as Dewi, explained that she was a princess trapped inside the cucumber by an evil sorcerer. "I was cursed to live within this golden cucumber," Dewi said, her voice soft and gentle. "Only a kind soul, free from greed and malice, could break the spell." Mbok Ratih, touched by Dewi's plight, promised to help. She offered Dewi shelter and food, treating her like her own daughter. Days turned into weeks, and Mbok Ratih and Dewi grew close. They shared stories, laughter, and the warmth of their newfound companionship. One day, a handsome young man named Raden arrived at the village. He was a brave warrior, known for his strength and kindness. Mbok Ratih, seeing the goodness in his heart, told him about Dewi's predicament. Raden, moved by the princess's story, vowed to help. "I will defeat the evil sorcerer and break the curse," Raden declared, his eyes filled with determination. Together, Mbok Ratih, Dewi, and Raden set out on a journey to find the sorcerer's lair. They faced many challenges along the way, but their courage and unwavering belief in each other kept them going. Finally, they reached the sorcerer's dark and forbidding castle. Raden, armed with his sword and fueled by his love for Dewi, confronted the sorcerer. A fierce battle ensued, but Raden's strength and skill prevailed. The sorcerer, defeated and weakened, was forced to break the curse. With the curse lifted, Dewi transformed back into her true form, a radiant princess. She and Raden, their hearts filled with love and gratitude, were finally reunited. Mbok Ratih, the kind old woman who had shown them compassion and kindness, was rewarded with their eternal friendship. And so, the tale of the golden cucumber became a legend, reminding everyone that even in the darkest of times, kindness and courage can triumph over evil.