Beauty on the Outside, Ugly in the Inside

Pontianak, Malay female Banshees reputed to be very beautiful yet demonic.

Many decades ago, during the time of rebuilding the nation to a better economy, there were those who were working in the transition residential relocations. My friend’s father, cycled from his home to work every day. Daily, he had to pass by lonely roads and dilapidated house. His mother advised him not to return too late, especially after mid-night. However, due to over-time, he came back very late, occasionally.

He was married. He loved his wife a lot. She was very attractive and friendly. Many felt that he will not look at other girls or be unfaithful. He himself believed that.

One lonely night, when he was riding along the road, he saw a nice looking figure. As he was approaching it, he felt an enticing smell roping him towards it. When he took control, he saw a beautiful lady standing by the roadside. He looked at her and she smiled. He just went pass her and headed to home, but constantly thinking about her. For the next three days, he came back early, and did not see the lady again. He forgot about her. Two weeks later, after mid-night, he saw the lady again. This time, the fragrance was more luring. He kept control and came near her. He stopped and asked her whether she was waiting for anyone. She nodded and smiled. So he left home thinking about her all the way. That night, he was not able to sleep. His body was aching and he felt disturbed. When he slept, he dreamed of her, but the dream was disturbing. She saw her as a long being from afar and he was walking away from her. The next day, he asked his friends, on whether they had seen such a pretty lady. None had, but they told him that she might be Pontianak. But he said that she did not harm him and reacted to his questions. They were confused.

For few days, he decided to go home late. He felt an overwhelming urge to smell the fragrance and see her. He went to the same location, and saw her standing there. He approached her and asked why she was standing all alone and who was she waiting for. She smiled and pointed to a hut. He was talking to her and advising not to walk along the road late at night. Throughout the conversation, she nodded and smiled. From afar, his friend who was going back home, saw him and left in a rush. When he saw his friend going off, he waved but he left. After few more words with her, he left. He felt happy seeing her and bewildered for no verbal reaction from her. Nevertheless, he felt excited and looking forward to see her.

To be continued………