Finally. Today was not so cold and the sky was clear enough. The pegasi couldn't wait to get out of the stable. Jonathan could tell how they bounced on their hooves when he went around to put a saddle on each of them. With that done, the boy put on his riding gear and walked Mercy outside the stable.

"Hello, everyone! Today's a good day, isn't it?" Jonathan stroked the mane of the dapple grey American Warmblood. "Our friends in the stable seem to think so. They can't wait for you guys to walk them out of there. But before we get to that, there's something I need to tell you. Not all of us had experiences on a horse's back, so we're changing that today." Mercy tapped one of her hooves and Jonathan liked to think it was her way to say 'Oh yes, this will be fun, everyone!'.

He stepped forward so all could see his riding gears. "First thing first: Do. Not. Forget. The. Helmet." The boy tapped at his helm at each word. "A concussion never worth it, even for us. It is a must if you're going out for a flight. Then, approach them like you are approaching someone new. In the front or from the side." Jonathan turned around and started his demonstration.

"Make sure the horse sees you when you are getting close. Pegasi have to possess keen reflexes and strong muscles even more than normal horses to keep up with their demigod companions or to survive in the monster-infested wilderness." He rested his hand on Mercy's withers. "If they think they're being sneaked up by something dangerous, they'll put those reflexes and leg muscles to good use."

"Check if the saddle is secured. The girth and stirrups should be adjusted to fit both of you. Mind the wings when you do." Jonathan did as he said. "Now, the mounting. I suggest having someone hold the reins when you are riding if you're not experienced. Otherwise, lift your forward foot onto the stirrup and put your weight on the ball of your foot, then you just pull yourself up and swing your body weight over. Please, careful with the wings. Oh, and do not drop yourself on the saddle. You wouldn't like someone to drop their entire body weight onto your back, would you?" With that, the boy gracefully swung himself onto the back of Mercy.

"Have at least one hand on the reins at all time, but keep them relaxed. Pull them gently when you want your pegasus' attention. Tap them with your calves if you want them to move or pick up the pace. If you want them to take flight, squeeze your legs in and hold a bit. Remember, the pegasi are good at reading your body language, they might not listen to you if they think you're too nervous. Best stay on the ground and get accustomed to riding. You'll also build your trust with your pegasus that way as well."

"Alright, then." He stayed on the pegasus' back briefly before dismounting. "Please, be careful. I'll help if anyone wants some help tacking their horse. Then, I'll be watching from...up there."