Yasen had noticed the lake almost immediately and couldn’t resist heading down to the shore at the first opportunity. There was almost a magnetic pull to it: the way the sunlight glinted off the water and the rhythmic rush of waves lapping at the shore. He walked along the edge until he reached a spot that provided easier access and, crouching down, dipped a hand in. The cool slide of the water against his fingertips was a delightful sensation. What would it feel like if he submerged?

Yasen didn’t know how to swim, but he knew not to inhale water and drown if at all possible, which seemed the most important thing. He toed off his boots and began peeling off his suit; he wanted as much skin bare as possible for this venture, not to mention he didn’t want to walk back to the ship in wet clothes, and he didn’t see why his undergarments wouldn’t suffice as temporary swimwear. He folded the suit neatly and set in on top of his boots.

He waded in without further consideration, shivering as goosebumps erupted wherever cool water lapped against his skin. Once he was waist deep he took a deep breath and folded his legs under, sinking beneath the surface. He twitched as the water came up over his ears, not enjoying the brief rushing-pop sensation, but the discomfort passed quickly and he sat--floated--in still contemplation while he adapted to the buoyancy and strange muffled sound of being underwater. It felt amazing; he kind of wanted to stay like this forever. How long would he be able to hold his breath?

Lural