[Verse 1] The air gets thin when you walk through the door Every word a pressure I’ve been holding before I’ve learned to find the quiet in the space between Counting every breath just to keep the pieces clean
[Pre-Chorus] Total concentration In through the nose, out slow First form - stay in position Don’t let them see you go
[Chorus] Ikiwosuu — Ikiwohaku Tempered my breathing to outlast you I’m Breathing in, I’m Breathing out - I’ll use every form just to push right through Water Breathing, steady current, hold the line I’m breathing through the tears, through the pain
- even if you’re the demon I’ll be fine
[Verse 2] Second form - the water wheel keeps spinning round Third form - I’m reclaiming solid ground You thought suffocation was a way to keep me near I’ve been training in the dark for over a year
[Pre-Chorus] Total concentration Seventh form, decisive thrust Sleight of blade, my dedication Cut right through the things I must
[Chorus] Ikiwosuu — Ikiwohaku Tempered my breathing to outlast you I’m Breathing in, I’m Breathing out - I’ll use every form I have to push right through Water Breathing, steady current, hold the line I’m breathing through the fears, running blind
- even if you’re the demon I’ll be fine
[Solo]
[Bridge - slower, Japanese instrumentation] Hinokami Kagura The dance that breaks the hold When everything is crumbling That’s when I become bold You thought you were my demon You thought you stole my breath But I’ve been training for this moment There is nothing left to dread
[Verse 3] Tenth form - constant flux, I won’t be still You thought you knew my limits, now you never will Every breath a different current, different tide The version that you trapped no longer lives inside
[Pre-Chorus] Total concentration This is where it ends Final form, elevation None of your smoke gets in
[Final Chorus - key lift, full orchestral] Ikiwosuu — Ikiwohaku Slowed my breath to dismantle you You were never worth the strain I’ve fought through the tears, even through the pain Sun Breathing, final form - and I rise again Shinkokyū - Iki o tomete -
Shin-ko-kyuu shii-te- I’m finally free again Shin-ko-kyuu shii-te- I’m finally free again Shin-ko-kyuu shii-te- I’m finally free again…
Ikiwosuu — Ikiwohaku - Just breathe…