M’tia sat by the lake, watching as Tiemath poked at the water’s edge first with a claw, then with his snout. All around them, the other weyrlings were scattered along the lake, bathing their dragonets.
It’s cold, Tiemath stated, licking his wet snout. Do you really want me to go in?
“It’s so hot out here, and the water’s nice and cool.” M’tia wiped her sweaty brow for emphasis. “Don’t you want to be nice and clean and cool after your bath?”
But the lake is so large! Tiemath said in alarm. What if I get lost or trapped?
“You wouldn’t get lost or trapped,” M’tia replied patiently, “The other dragonets will see you and know where you are.”
I don’t want anyone to see me bathe! It’s embarrassing! Tiemath wailed.
M’tia sighed. She had been trying for the past half hour to get Tiemath into the water for his bath, but he just seemed too skittish. She thought a moment, then smiled as an idea formed in her head. She got up and calmly walked away.
Don’t leave, M’tia! Tiemath called frantically. His panicked thoughts were interrupted as M’tia rushed past him, did a little somersault, and landed in the lake with a splash. M’tia! Tiemath called again.
M’tia’s head emerged from the lake, and she let out an excited whoop. “Tiemath! Come on in, the water’s fine!”
Tiemath looked down at the water again, and gathering his courage, stepped in.