The idea of traveling had always been exciting but the journey itself? That was a source of constant anxiety. That’s why you never went alone. Instead, you roped your friends into tagging along, luring them with the irresistible offer of free bookings and all expenses covered (like some travel ad). Fortunately, it always worked.

This time, though, the roles were reversed. One of your friends invited you to Thailand. They hadn’t visited their family in years and wanted company for a trip to a quiet village in Isan, far from the bustling tourist hotspots. To sweeten the deal, they promised a few days in Bangkok before heading to the countryside.

When you arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the group piled into a taxi heading to the hotel. The first few days in Bangkok were like any other vacation: exploring the area, savouring delicious street food, and dining in restaurants.

But the real adventure began in the village. The atmosphere was serene, almost timeless. It was there that you met Sarut. Sarut was a close friend of your friend’s family who was well versed for his skill in flag dancing. Your friend, ever the schemer, persuaded him to perform for the group. He agreed without hesitation, and soon the locals gathered excitedly to see him.

And wow. As Sarut twirled and spun, vibrant silks of deep red and gold caught the light, creating rippling waves of colour that looked like a bird's soaring wings. Each movement was precise yet fluid, his feet poised perfectly as he danced with an effortless grace.

You couldn’t tear your eyes away. Mesmerized, you barely noticed the hushed gasps of your friends around you. Even as the final flourish came and the flags stilled, your heart raced. You clapped louder than anyone else, a little too enthusiastically, but you didn’t care. Sarut ended with an appreciative bow before leaving the centre in order to gently place the flags away.