The River’s Burden

Months had passed since Dara spoke in Phnom Penh about the wonders of banana leaves. His village, Kbal Spean, had earned attention from outsiders who traveled there to learn how traditional wisdom could solve modern problems. Dara, still only seventeen, found himself balancing schoolwork with the responsibilities of teaching others.

Yet beneath his pride grew unease. The river, once clear and abundant, seemed troubled. The monsoon had arrived early, and with it came strange floods that tore through the rice fields. Fishermen returned with empty nets, muttering that the spirits of the river had turned away.