The koi gazed up at the waterfall, burning with determination.
With clenched fists, it vowed to conquer the rushing waters, telling itself it would not lose to anyone.

Three years have passed.

The koi is still swimming within the same waterfall.
The climb remains long and steep, yet the koi’s mindset has changed.

The clenched fist has now relaxed, forming the mudra of contemplation, a gesture symbolizing deep reflection.

Its gaze is turned inward—no longer aware of the powerful currents nor the presence of other koi swimming alongside it.

In the silence, the koi ascends the waterfall, lost in self-questioning.

Why do I climb this waterfall?
Will I truly be satisfied when I become a dragon at the top?

I didn’t want to lose.
I wanted to be recognized.
I wanted someone to listen.

That was why I started.

I began this journey to become a dragon,
yet I now realize—the thing I desired most was this very act of climbing.

I want to keep swimming forever.

Understanding this, I feel a profound sense of happiness.

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The background pattern is Seigaiha (青海波)—a motif found across the world, from Egypt to Persia and beyond.

This pattern, inspired by the vast ocean, symbolizes the blessings of the sea.
Its endlessly expanding waves represent wishes for eternal happiness and a peaceful life.

The markings on the koi’s body form the Scale Pattern (鱗文様, Urokumonyō), a design composed of arranged equilateral or isosceles triangles, also seen in various cultures worldwide.

Resembling the scales of a snake or butterfly, this pattern carries meanings of shedding the past, purification, and rebirth.

It is also famously used in Noh and Kabuki theater, adorning the costumes of vengeful female spirits and serpentine beings—symbolizing a woman’s unwavering resolve and deep emotions.