As she propelled herself forward across the shallow pool, she knew that she would forever love the water. Each stroke became stronger and more confident. As she tilted her chin up above the surface, she maintained a steady breath- tilting forward as she pushed her uncoordinated limbs to paddle as quickly as they could. Her father’s cheering only encouraged her- and did so all the way until she ended up in his open embrace. As she was scooped up, excited squeals and bouts of laughter erupted- her tail rapidly swaying in a display of enthusiasm as she was praised for her efforts. As an affectionate nuzzle was delivered to her forehead, Talyssa fought to lean into it with a nuzzle of her own. The idea that she could be part dolphin was particularly funny to her, but the promise that she could swim anywhere she wanted was exceptionally exhilarating. “Really?! You think so?” Taly asked out of surprise. She wondered if it was any different swimming in a river or a lake as compared to the ocean … but decided she would just have to find out for herself in due time.
As her father gestured back to the tidepool, offering her the opportunity to continue practicing, she nodded along furiously. “Just a little bit longer, please Tati?” She pleaded, waiting to be released so she could return to the water. But before doing so, she would have to respect her father’s ruling and offer compliance. “I promise, I won’t.” She answered, trying to be as genuine as she could in her vow to not attempt to swim on her own until she was a yearling ... but her impatience was obviously growing as she bounced on her toes to try and contain herself.
Professor
Fleet-footed
