It surprised her, the quick answering irritation that stole through Jarek as she explained the situation from her home that led to her being here in Novus. But of course he would take offense to what happened. He, unlike anyone in her old herd, was a true warrior, a fighter through and through, capable of recognizing another warrior when he saw one--and he'd accepted her as one from the moment she claimed the title. He spoke with a practical mindset, an ability to find use in any and all capabilities when it came to war and conquest, and though it was all stated with an unbiased authority, Phoebe couldn't help taking it as a personal compliment. It thrilled her to know that he saw worth in her, potential as a soldier, and only served to bolster her resolve to continue training. She wanted suddenly, very much, to prove him right. The sound of his smiling chuckle, once again carefree as his worries slowly and visibly eased away, made her heart leap, skip, almost as much as his praise did. It was such a lovely feeling to have that sort of power, to say something that could make nerve-rattling insecurity disappear in the space of a moment. Was it too soon for her to think she'd gained that power over him? To know that her opinion, her words, meant so much that they could turn his mood around? Maybe not. After all, she couldn't deny she was already placing great weight behind what he said, making his praise and encouragement matter in a way that made her want to try even harder to succeed. It was a little scary, how quickly the feelings came over her, as if they might drown her, but the little sunset mare didn't fight. No. She hadn't felt anything like this before, and curiosity was certainly getting the better of her.
Her bright eyes were fixed on his face, dreamily studying his expression, the curve of his smile, the gentleness in his gaze, the calm that had replaced the anxiety. She was ready to continue staring until he moved, reaching down to her, slow and soft, until his forehead pressed against hers. The breath in her chest caught as Jarek settled there, feeling the solidness of his touch, the warmth beneath his skin, and a little shiver stole through her with a jittery excitement that quickly melted into bliss. Phoebe sighed, audibly, as her eyes closed and she leaned into him, upward into him, returning the unexpected, innocent affection clearly. The gesture was so gentle, so sweet, that she couldn't help the big, giddy smile that spread across her muzzle, or the little tinkling laugh that slipped out of her as she sidled a step closer. What might it be like to nestle into his broad side, to tuck herself against him and know nothing in the world could touch her so long as she stayed there? Part of her wanted very much to know, but even that felt like a boldness beyond her.
Instead, she giggled again, a little sheepishly given the train her thoughts, and made herself break the contact with a sudden visible shyness. She didn't step away, however, only remained there within reach in the pool, feeling small and delicate in the soldier's great shadow. "I'm sorry, I-" Phoebe faltered. What was she sorry for, exactly? For pulling away? For not stepping in further? Her ears tipped back, embarrassed, and her tail swished through the water to expel nervous energy, but her smile remained. "I just...I don't know what to do around you." She laughed again, helplessly, apologetic, as she stared into Jarek's face, his beauty, with an awe and longing she didn't know what to do with. Would this be enough to leave with? Or would she haunted by their chance meeting and the little she had of him, desperately wanting more?
Another shiver, stronger this time, raced up her frame, and Phoebe gave her head a little shake. "Maybe I should get out of the water," she muttered, uncertain it would actually help but eager for something. She didn't wait for a response and began taking careful, slow strides to pull herself out from beneath the waterfall, out of the oasis, and back onto the stone surrounding it. Water ran down her legs, streamed off of her sides and tail, and she weakly tried to shake it off without too much effort. Standing there, she tried again to look upon Jarek, reluctant to leave him, and even second guessing herself in putting this little bit of distance between them.
