When Uncle Prasert heard what Mali said, his face flushed red.46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtTgFQtkhN
“You think I’m the sort of man who can’t take a loss? A real man keeps his word and honors his wagers. Didn’t we shake on it?”
But deep down, after losing three games of makruk in a row to a young girl who had only just learned the rules, Uncle Prasert felt a sting he couldn’t quite hide. What hurt most was that in the last game, he hadn’t given her any advantage, he’d even gone first. And still, she’d beaten him.
Finally, Uncle Prasert sank heavily into his chair and let out a long sigh.46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ88wZmSmJaL
“I’ve been playing makruk for decades… and I actually lost to someone who just learned the game. Have I been wasting my time all these years? If anyone ever calls you slow again, I’ll shut them up on the spot. From what I can see, that bump on your head didn’t make you dull, it made you dangerously smart.”
There was no doubt in his mind that Mali had never played before.46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPq0TcCYwHY
From the very first match, it was obvious she hadn’t even known how the pieces moved. But what startled him was how quickly she caught on. Within two games, she was already reading his strategies, twisting them and turning them against him—learning, applying, and improving on the spot. It was unsettling. Prasert had met many clever people in his lifetime but never someone like this. Mali’s ability felt almost unnatural.
He studied her in silence, then nodded to himself.46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdM5nGT8NIq
No wonder Uncle Somchai has his eye on her. He must have noticed it too. This girl isn’t meant for an ordinary life. I’d better tie a bond early. I’ll take her in as a registered disciple, at least.
Having made up his mind, Uncle Prasert straightened his back and spoke in a formal tone:46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyC4N46RTBM
“Mali, this game between us was fate. I, Prasert Chaisiri, accept my loss. Now bow and take me as your master. I’ll accept you as a registered disciple for now. Work hard, and you may become a full student later.”
Registered disciple? Full student?46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXxBfvSvEj1
Mali blinked in confusion.
“What are you waiting for?” Prasert barked. “Don’t you want to learn skills that will make your legs quicker and stronger?”
Her eyes lit up. She didn’t fully understand but she understood enough. She knelt, gave three respectful bows, and said clearly,
“Master!”
Prasert wasn’t fond of long ceremonies and this had been a sudden decision. The bows were enough, Mali was now officially his disciple.
The casual old man vanished; in his place stood a figure tall and steady.
“I practice a martial art called Mae Mai Muay Thai,” he said, standing in the courtyard. “If anyone asks about your lineage, tell them: Prasert Chaisiri of Chachoengsao.”
Mali listened closely, memorizing each word.
“In Muay, we don’t choose students for their wealth or status but for their character. There are six kinds of people we never teach. Remember them:
- Those who betray their teacher or heritage.
- Those who use their skills for cruelty.
- Those who repay kindness with treachery.
- Those who harm friends or cheat the people.
- The lazy and the cowardly.
- The foolish and the deceitful.
Especially the first four, if I ever find you using what I teach to bully the weak… I will not forgive you.”
His eyes locked on hers.
“I understand, Master! I’ll remember!” she said firmly.
“Good. I’ll start by teaching you the root stance of Muay Boran—the Suea Thong.”
Prasert stepped into the center of the yard. He extended both arms like guarding his chest, lifted his chin to straighten his spine then stepped forward with his left foot. His hands shifted, one pressing forward, one drawing back, like pushing and pulling against invisible resistance.
“This is the heart of Muay Boran. All power, all movement, begins here. Even masters keep practicing it for life.”
Mali copied the stance with focus.
He stepped over to adjust her arms and feet.46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡadf2UxYey1
“There are twenty-four points you must know. He rattled them all off in a single breath, then asked casually,
“Got it?”
“Yes, I’ve memorized it.”
“Recite it.”
She spoke without hesitation—perfect.
Prasert hid his surprise behind a small nod. Normally, he would teach a stance in small pieces but with Mali’s sharpness, he decided to give her all of it at once.
“Master,” Mali asked, holding the pose, “if I train this well… will it really make my legs faster?”
“Of course,” he said. “Train until they move as one, and you’ll be faster than most even without bending your knees.”
Satisfied, Prasert gave her a few last instructions and quietly walked away—leaving her in the courtyard, teeth clenched, holding the stance.46Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqAxBTxsFwS
and then Add to home screen.