The Phoenix circled, vast and fiery. A sole observer of the blooming lotus pond beneath. Each flower, a transient bloom. Life in the midst of change. The bird, a guide in darkness. The lotus, embodying serenity in transition. The world below held its breath. A mirror image shimmered on the water’s surface. The Phoenix swooped low, wings skimming the mirror. Ripples distorted the symmetry. The turmoil gave birth to a new image. Whispers of rebirth filled the quiet air. The Phoenix rose again, the cycle resuming anew. It’s just change, the Phoenix seemed to say. Change is just life renewed.