The koi swam. Silent. Circle upon circle. Golden scales glinted, touching the jade. It glowed. Soft and steadfast, like an old truth whispered in youth. Each arc was purposeful, life’s mission to be free yet bounded. Their eyes fixed, knowing the jade’s wisdom. Secret keeper. Silent guide. Cross currents tugged, cheering their struggle. They held fast, life’s passion aflame. It was survival, as sacred as breath. They danced, tireless against the jade’s unwavering glow. Flowing, surviving, believing. Koi and stone, locked in a dance only the patient understood. Their destiny was akin, resilient in their dedicated ritual. And so, they swam.