Let's Go Fly...
凧 | Microfiction
Fūjin 風神 brought his tiny finger to his mouth, licked it, and raised it to the wind. Furrowing his brow, he nodded. He wasn't sure what it meant, but Sofu 祖父 had always done it, so it must be important.
He missed Sofu.
Gripping the handle tightly, he ran as fast as his little legs could, dragging the colorful heap of bamboo and washi paper behind him.
Suddenly the string pulled tautly–
Up...
Up...
Tugging gently, his big eyes traveled skyward excitedly meeting his bright tako 凧 soaring above.
He hoped Sofu was watching from the clouds. He’d be proud.
About the Creator
Kristen Balyeat
Words fly to me on the wind, bump into me as I'm strolling the city, splash me in the face while I rest by the river, and shake me awake in the middle of the night—I’m humbly one of the vessels they use to come to life.
Also, i love you:)
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Easy to read and follow
Well-structured & engaging content
Expert insights and opinions
Arguments were carefully researched and presented
Eye opening
Niche topic & fresh perspectives
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
On-point and relevant
Writing reflected the title & theme
Keep reading
More stories from Kristen Balyeat and writers in Fiction and other communities.
Cloud Fleet 81
Drifting and floating at 6500 feet, Cirro readied his Cloud Craft. His hands shook as he turned knobs and pressed buttons on his control panel. Making eye contact with his reflection, he examined his white, cottony hair that swirled into a perfect cloud shape. He was pleased with himself. Slowly scanning his face, he noticed that his normally light blue cheeks had taken on a pale, chalky color. “Nerves,” he thought.
By Kristen Balyeat3 years ago in Fiction
Miss Persephone's Manual to a Seemingly Ordinary Life
Miss Persephone was found at the dining table, her blue eyes swollen, her tears arriving and retreating like the tides of the ocean. Earlier that day, her family had visited her in the retirement home where she had lived for eight years. It was her eightieth birthday.
By Imola Tóth2 days ago in Fiction
The Night Weeping Inn: A Guest Protocol for Your Serene Stay
Esteemed Guest, Welcome to the Yonaki-kan (Night Weeping Inn), a sanctuary nestled deep within the forgotten valleys of Ishikawa Prefecture. For generations, our inn has offered weary travelers a timeless respite, a glimpse into an older Japan where nature and spirit intertwine. To ensure your stay is as tranquil and undisturbed as possible, we kindly ask you to observe the following traditional protocols. These guidelines are not mere suggestions; they are the bedrock of harmony between our cherished guests and the ancient spirits of this land. Your cooperation ensures not just your comfort, but your safety.
By Takashi Nagaya2 days ago in Fiction
Center Stage with Paul Stewart
*** I'm keen to republish the interviews I did for my series with Vocal creators. It's been a few years and I thought it might be nice to revisit these wonderful conversations. I'll be releasing them one at a time for a few weeks/months.
By Heather Hubler2 days ago in Interview
Comments (10)
Sofu would be proud indeed. Delightful!
Sublime, Kristen! So so so so sublime. I really can't think of any words to really say more than that! Great work with so few words, Kristen!
Simply magical, transporting us to distant lands, rising high with the tako to greet Sofu.
A little bit of magic right there! https://youtu.be/ruJnPqdxmTs
Awe I loved this story! Memories of loved ones who have passed. This is heart warming I want to read more of this story!
Wow this was powerful. What a glorious image... your writing is so evocative. And that last line... ✨
Okay, my heart is stuck in my throat now. Just a few little words to make me tear up, wow Kristen!
Charming, heart-warming, wistful. And with a cute child... you really got me💙Anneliese
This story really tugs at the heart 💜
Beautiful story. and a nice emotional layer added there in the last line.