floating

Yamagawa-jo Castle was not exactly an impressive castle, especially in terms of size. It had four towers with a medium-sized pagoda in the middle; it was a pretty average in terms of construction and architecture. However what it lacked in style it made up for with airtight security. Guards guarded practically every square inch of the compound, not even a flea would be able to waltz on by unnoticed. Lady Komoda, the owner of the fortress kept various precious items stored and protected for her lord.

Three days before the race and I was incredibly nervous as I stood with the other unhired racers in a row, hoping to be hired. My black rubber gas suit bore my pressure stat “425” in large proud white letters across my swollen belly as I stood with my hands behind my back. Problem was, so were my other eight competitors, six women and two men. Women had more natural adaptability for this than men did; among men, I was a minor celebrity. The crowds were still milling around as a young debutante—tight sweater, tight jeans--strolled up to me, all hips and lips and boobs.