Jay relishes the feeling of the water wrapping around him once more before turning back to face the young mare. He was treading water now, keeping his head afloat as he watched. He chuckled softly at her indecisiveness while at the same time admiring her bravery. It was not an easy step to take. From the firm ground below you to...nothing. There were no rules once you were in the water, nothing keeping you tethered. You could be upside down, right side up, or weightless all at the same time. It's okay if you aren't ready, he says softly, not wanting to speak over the soft shushing of the water. This lake isn't going anywhere.

He tilted his head as he watched her. She seemed determined to come after him. The refraction of the water made it seem like she was holding herself upright, raising herself to the sky. It reminded him of the strength of those who had come before him, and for a moment, he could even see her in the stars. Though it was day, he could still picture the gleaming balls of light, forming a rearing horse. The water made it easy for her to hold her position, and he took advantage of it to sear the image into his mind. He shook his head, bringing himself back down to reality. Taking deep breaths helps you stay afloat. When you have air in your body, it makes you feel like you're flying. He paused in thought, trying to put in words what now came so naturally to him. Though it does help if you move your legs. It's almost like running!

He takes a deep breath and dives again, his legs striking out powerfully against the water, pushing himself deeper into the lake. At the bottom, he grabs a mouthful of a long plant, hoping that its resemblance to grass was in taste as much as in sight. Surfacing from the lake with his prize, he headed back to shore. Jokingly, he draped the lakeweed over Izzy's mane and proudly announced the decoration. Now, he thought, she was the most beautiful around. Suddenly shy, he pulled the grass from her mane and offered it as a gift. It seems like you really want to go. It's important to think of the risks, but think of what you can learn! He trailed off, worried that he was being too pushy or too persistent. I'll wait for you. And when you're ready, we can go together. Had he waited a little longer, the mood would have been set by the sun starting to sink over the horizon. The light would have reflected off the mountains and the water, casting a gentle fire into the world. But he was a little too early for that, a little too eager. He was still young, but as he grew, the idea of love and what that could mean came closer and closer to the front of his mind. Mind you, it was still hidden, but looking at the yearling next to him was starting to lead to some funny flutters deep in his chest.