One morning, "Baluakan, breakfast is ready. Let's eat," said Bikang. "Alright Bikang, let's eat and then head to the field," replied Baluakan. After eating, the couple prepared their tools for tilling the soil and then set off to their farm.
On their way to the field, they met Nanay Epang. "Where are you two headed, my children?" asked Nanay Epang. "We're going to the field to prepare the land for planting," said Baluakan. "My, you two are very hardworking. What is all this effort for?" asked Nanay Epang. "That's just it, until now our long-awaited blessing hasn't arrived," replied Bikang.
"Well, my children, just wait. Surely, it will come. Take care," said Nanay Epang. "You too," replied the couple.
When they reached the field, they started preparing the soil for planting. Baluakan arranged the plots where they would sow the seeds and performed a ritual. Meanwhile, Bikang cooked boiled sweet potatoes and heated water for coffee. After work, they happily shared the snacks prepared by Bikang.
That night, the couple slept deeply due to exhaustion. In the middle of the night, Baluakan suddenly woke up from a dream. "Bikang, my dear," said Baluakan. "What is it, what happened?" asked Bikang. "I had a dream! It said that it's good to plant in the spot where I placed the offering," replied Baluakan happily. "Ah! That sounds great then. Thank you, Lord Namalyari," replied Bikang.
Every day, the couple was always in the field. They worked together on the farm, cleaning the land and hiring others to plow and remove weeds.
Their lives revolved around the farm. They took good care of their crops like rice. Despite the hard work, they were happy. Their love and dedication remained, even though they knew something was missing in their lives.
One night, Baluakan found Bikang on the balcony lost in thought, tears in her eyes. He immediately asked her what was troubling her.
"Baluakan, I am blessed by your hard work, care, and love for me. But the one thing that can fulfill our union, I still cannot give you," Bikang said sorrowfully.
Baluakan felt the weight in Bikang's heart, so he thought of ways to make his wife happy again.
Baluakan defied the elders of their tribe. Their only answer was faith in the power of Lord Namalyari.
Baluakan knew in his heart that Lord Namalyari could grant their wish. He led a prayer facing east, where the sun rises. It was followed by the lighting of candles and the chanting of prayers.
Days, months, and years passed. Their wish remained elusive to Baluakan and Bikang. But this strengthened their bond as a couple.
"Bikang, come, I brought some fresh fruits from our farm," Baluakan invited. "Thank you, Baluakan," said Bikang. She immediately ate the ripe mango.
"I'll go to the mountain to catch some birds for our dinner," Baluakan announced. Bikang nodded, smiling. She knew this was Baluakan's way of showing his love for her.
The sky was clear. Baluakan was greeted by the cool breeze and the cheerful chirping of birds. It felt like something enveloped him. The rising sun in the east seemed to accompany the thousands of blessings bestowed upon creation.
Baluakan prayed fervently. "Lord Namalyari, thank you for the continuous blessings you give us. We still believe that you will grant our wish," Baluakan pleaded wholeheartedly.
Bikang warmly welcomed her husband back and prepared coffee. The couple shared a joyful dinner as if they were newlyweds.
"Bikang, you are the fulfillment of my dreams. I am fortunate, and you are given to me to be with for a lifetime," Baluakan expressed. "Thank you, Baluakan. You are also precious to me," replied Bikang.
In the following days, there was something different about Bikang's demeanor. Even her fellow women noticed. A meaningful smile was visible on Baluakan's face.
Bikang woke up from a peaceful sleep. Baluakan also noticed the change in Bikang's demeanor. He immediately checked her pulse and was surprised by its unusual beat.
Baluakan's wish was finally granted by the blessing of Lord Namalyari. Indeed, there was now a little life in Bikang's womb. Her pregnancy brought joy to the couple.
"Bikang, I am deeply grateful to Lord Namalyari because our wish has been fulfilled," Baluakan said. "You're right, our faith has helped us be given a child," Bikang agreed. The couple loved each other more and eagerly awaited the birth of their child.
Days passed quickly. A healthy young boy was now with the couple. Botsokoy always accompanied them wherever they went.
"Thank you, Lord Namalyari," Bikang expressed her gratitude. "Dad, can I come to our field?" Botsokoy asked. "Sure, just walk," Baluakan replied playfully, lifting him onto his shoulders. Bikang watched them with joy, saying, "Thank you, Lord Namalyari."
