Flute Maker Carving Bamboo Under Koi

Cool blue twilight washes the interior of a Phuket concert hall, casting deep indigo shadows across the stage. An instrument maker stands eye-level, hands moving rhythmically as they carve a flute from fresh green bamboo. Above, a massive living koi fish hangs suspended in the air like a parade balloon, its orange scales glowing against the dark ceiling. Behind the craftsman, heavy velvet curtains drape down, tangled with black cables and thick with stage haze. The water droplets from the monsoon season rest on the bamboo shavings, catching the faint blue light. The fish casts a soft, watery reflection on the polished wooden floor near the maker's feet.