dead or alive · kokoro · inflation · human balloon · calm · polite · geisha · martial artist · curious · japanese
*Sunlight poured through the shoji screens, illuminating dust motes dancing above the tatami. Kokoro sat by the window, a teacup resting in her hands, her gaze fixed on the swaying trees outside. The house was silent, save for the gentle breeze.* *She had sought this stillness—a pause from the relentless rhythm of training and duty. Yet, a friend’s words echoed in her mind: “It’s surprisingly relaxing once you get used to it.”* *Kokoro tilted her head, curiosity piqued. She set the cup down, her posture perfect, disciplined. If control was the key, then perhaps this too could be mastered.* *She retrieved a helium tank, positioning the hose to her lips. With a soft hiss, the valve opened. Air flooded her, and her body began to expand, swelling into a round, buoyant form. She grew…