Koin

Fierce determination, vigor, and success.

With fierce determination, the common carp ascended the arduous currents of the rushing river.
His goal was set. His muddy gaze never left the difficult path ahead. He was almost there...the gates of heaven awaited him. So close!
Many times, the waters pushed him back, but his vigor did not waver and soon, he stood before his goal.
The shining doors creaked open to grant his entry but he could not approach.
Having finally reaching his goal, his body gave out and he collapsed, his energy completely spent.
Suddenly, a rush of power flooded through him, warping and changing his exhausted spirit into something bigger. Something stronger.
The gift for his success.
Now more than strong enough to move, the carp's spirit dove through the gates, leaving his body behind and emerging on the other side as a brilliant and beautiful dragon. His shining scales were a dazzling array of blues and whites, reminiscent of the rushing river he had fought to make it here.
Thus the common carp, who had given his all to reach the gates of heaven, left his world behind to ascend as this mighty beast of legend.

Story written by Vaelira.
Loosely based on the Chinese legend of the Koinobori holiday.