the U N I C O R N himself // OPEN

[S u N f r O s t ~]

His black coat gleamed in the great sunlight slanting through the trees. It lit him up like black fire, but he was not black on the inside. On the inside he was like a gentle stream, easily and slowly winding down the path carved out for it. How could you not enjoy him, this embodiment of life? He may be two, but he was already my life. My life was his as well. He'd do anything to please me, to make me feel happy and safe. A day without Impressario was a day without my own personal sun.

We were winding along the path to the beach. I knew this path well, so many times had I come down here. This beach was my favorite place on Green Horse Fields to ride, especially now with the Breeder's Cup. Ario had been working and racing a lot the past few weeks, and I thought he might be a little tired. The last race of the season for him would be the Breeder's Cup Juvenile. We were against tough horses in the race. Akuma Battlecry of Green Horse, an accomplished two year old who had had an excellent season, Secret Miracle of Akita Rose, the only filly entered with an extremely impressive record and a knack for running, Native Flame trained by Ripley who had it going for us with his massive strides, Prize Me Proud newly returned to the track and already doing well, and Airliner, a foreigner who had been around enough to get to know our track.

All of them competitors, all of them out to get us. We needed to be rested and ready. That was the point of this trail ride. I needed Ario relaxed before his final work for the Juvenile. And then we would win. It had been our goal all season, win the Juvenile. I left these thoughts abruptly as the beach came into view. So large, the golden sand gleamed like fire in the sunlight. I looked for other riders as I walked Ario down a hill to the soft sand, my eyes shaded with my hands as I searched.....

[Kirsten Jade]

Let's RUN like there is NO tomorrow
and take the track by storm.

Kirsten sat aboard her amazing colt turfer, Sand Storm, looking out towards the sea. The sea was so beautiful, so peaceful yet wild, so mysterious and so free. She loved the ocean and if she would have not gotten into the horse business she would be out at sea researching orcas for the rest of her life. But this was good too...

The sea brought back some good memories of her and her husband, oh how they loved to cuddle by the water and watch the waves. She could still feel the comfort of his arms wrapped around her and hear him whisper words of love into her ears. Kirsten closed her eyes and let the memories flow. They had loved each other more than words could ever describe. So then why had he left her and Emma? Where was he now?

Her mount pawed at the sand. He must be wondering why they weren't moving. Stormy was normally a calm horse to ride who did anything to please his rider. He was very patient, just like his sire was. He has had a short career so far but a very successful one. It was definitely one to be proud of. It did not take long at all before Stormy was well conditioned and ready for some serious competition.

They were often found at the beach together as it was Stormy's favorite place to run. He loved the sand. But as they continued down the beach Kirsten realized they were not alone today...

[Snowflake]

Akuma Battlecry && Marissa Star

the U N I C O R N himself //

Thud, thud, thud.. His hooves hit the ground dully as we walked down the forest trail. His ears were alert, listening to all that went on. I sat on his back in the small exercise saddle, absorbing his movement as the trail lead us down hill toward the beach. I could hear the sounds of the ocean in the near distance.. The crashing waves and the screeching sea gulls.

The huge seventeen point something hand colt navigated the steep dirt trail as we descended to the sand. I sat back in the saddle, keeping my weight back and my heels down, not forgetting to slip the horse some more rein. He took it gratefully, lowering his head to better find his way.

Finally we reached the sand, and my mount broke into an eager trot. I saw ahead of us two other riders, one on a bright chestnut colt, and another on a beautifully familiar colt, who I recognised immediately as Impressario.

Good boy, Akuma. Yes, you heard correctly. Big, bold, bad Akuma Battlecry was here to play..

[xxxsustain]

To cramped with another? =/

[S u N f r O s t ~]

ooc// come and join in Sussy!

ic// I was surprised to pick out two figures in along the beach. One of them, a bright chestnut whom I recognized as Sand Storm from Akita Rose, was picking his way along at a comfortable pace. I could tell from his calm that he must have been here a lot before hand. His coat nearly blended into the sand, so I had to trot Ario closer to really get a closer look. A smile broke out on my face, and I called Kirsten's name very softly as not to frighten the two year old she rode. Kirsten!

I then swung my eyes to the huge dark bay that was also coming toward us. I recognized Akuma Battlecry and Marissa Star. My smile widened, but they were too far away to hear my hello, so I remained silent. Instead, I waved casually in their direction. It was a slow wave, not one to scare a horse, but I highly doubted Akuma would get scared. I knew Sarah and Marissa had brought him off of Rockstar, so he must have the Rockstar temperament.

Ario snorted as we approached the chestnut, his head lifting high to show off his arrogance. His nostrils flared as a breeze blew and he picked up Akuma Battlecry's scent. Knowing his behavior only too well - he had done something similar as a yearling when he had met Buccaneer - I kept a tight rein and a comforting hand on his neck. That usually did the trick with my horses.

[Kirsten Jade]

OOC:| lol he's three

Kirsten nudged her mount to approach the horse and rider whom she recognized as Amber Black a top the magnificent Impressario. The black colt was blazing his way around the track and was probably the one to beat on Breeder's Cup day. He was running against Akita Rose's top 2 year old filly, Secret Miracle. Miracle had much talent but had to get over a few road bumps this year. Hopefully by Breeder Cup day she will be ready.

Kirsten lifted her hand in salutation. She knew the young stable owner well and had worked business with her before. She was whispering, possibly in case Stormy was the nervous type - which he wasn't. "Hey Amber! How are you doing? Don't ya worry about Stormy here... he is not the spooky type." In fact, Stormy was nice and calm and would make a great training horse for the yearlings when his career was done, just like his sire.

It was all too bad that Stormy had only started his career half-way into his third year but he was doing so well. Kirsten wished that things had been different and Stormy had never been stolen... and her husband had never left her... but at least she had gotten Stormy back... now if only she could get her husband back...

[Snowflake]

Akuma's nostrils flared as he jogged, as he strained to pick up the scent of the other horses. Unfortunately for him, the others were down wind from us, so the two other colts caught Akuma's scent before they heard or saw him coming.

I raised my arm and waved casually back to Amber, and called out Hey! with a grin on my face as we came into earshot of the others. Akuma flicked his ears back and forth at the sound of my voice. As we drew closer, I recognised the chestnut as Sand Storm, a three year old colt who was doing well on the track. I couldn't remember if he had ever raced against Akuma, but I knew he had faced my Gorgeous George. His rider was well known and respected trainer/owner/jockey Kirsten Jade of Akita Rose Stables. I didn't know her well, but I knew Sarah had done some business deals with her, and Davo, my boyfriend, and his stallion Flying Colours had it out for Speed Demon and Kirsten.

I tightened my hold on the reins, slowing Akuma with a little difficulty back down to walk. He didn't want to slow up, and threw his head up in protest. Hey I said again as we pulled up about two metres from the others.

[sam]

Mind if I join too or would it be too crowded? lol

[S u N f r O s t ~]

ooc// You can join too Sam!

ic// Not the spooky type? Good. Exactly how....errrr.....dominant is he? As an alpha stallion? I was asking the question because Ario was currently begging for a fight. His hooves were set firmly in the sand, and his head was held insanely high. His nostrils flared dangerously as he breathed in huge amounts of air, filling up his body so he looked bigger and stronger then he really was. I could feel his body extending against the girth, and gave a sharp slap on his neck. Enough! I ordered.

The black two year old just snorted and stamped his hoof. He let the breath out, his size diminishing, but he kept his head high. His legs weren't as firmly planted in the sand as before; now he looked like he was getting ready to run. He shifted his weight from side to side, and then stiffened as huge Akuma Battlecry came along. Riding was Marissa Star, of course. I flashed another grin in her direction and in Kirsten's.

Akuma looks as fit as ever. Ready for the Juvenile? My grin became a bit smaller as I looked over Ario's competitor. He was fit as a fiddle, just like Ario, but better rested? Most likely. I flashed another look in Kirsten's direction. Sand Storm ready for the.....what race is he in? Juvenile Turf or Juvenile Turf Sprint? If there is one, anyway, there's so many races this year!

[sam]

Water splashed upon the dark hooves of the quirky thoroughbred. A squeal erupted from her as she rolled her eyes white in false terror. She danced away from the white foam. Oh you poor thing, I said, my voice dripping with sarcasm. This was the sixth time that the water lapped at her hooves and now it spooks her. I sat deep in the saddle as she danced up the bank. With firm hands and legs, I navigated her back down to the shore, to the edge where the soft foam lapped at the shore.

The buckskin Thoroughbred pranced a bit every time the water came closer to her. I ignored her oddness for now. Suddenly her legs went completely still and she seemed to freeze in place. Instantly, my legs came off her to give a sharp kick, but I stopped half way when I spotted a group of horses. She started to stir under me now. Quickly, my legs went to clamp by her side as I held tight to the reins.

It didn't stop her much. With a neigh and a squeal she threw herself forwards. You can wait, I said though my gritting teeth as I pulled my right hand out to the side, forcing her to go into a tight circle. I had her circle once, then twice. Finally the two year old seemed to calm and stood still, well somewhat at least. She fidgeted and her attention was fully on the horses ahead. With a sigh, I let her go forwards with a prancing gait. With my hands tight on the leather reins, I couldn't wave. I smiled warmly at the group instead, a universal friendly greeting.

[Kirsten Jade]

OOC:| Welcome Sam but please guys let's stay in order. Now that Sam jumped in after Frosty it'll be Frosty, Sam, Me and then Sarah. Thanks.

Kirsten kept her colt well in hand as the black juvenile in front of her started to get worked up. Kirsten figured that Impressario was looking for a fight. She shook her head as Amber asked her a question and laughed. "Nope, not dominant at all. This boy is calm as ever, just like his sire was. Best horses to ride for some thinking time or to train the youngsters. I'm so glad I got this boy back." She slapped Stormy's neck fondly. She had always wondered if she would ever get him back after the robbery and thankfully she did.

She shifted her attention over behind her and watched as Akuma Battlecry and his rider moved towards them. Akuma was another horse that will be running against her Miracle filly in the Juvenile. Kirsten knew it would be a tough race and as she found herself face to face with two of the biggest challengers she found herself wondering if she should scratch her horse from the race. They looked good... too good...

She lifted her hand as a greeting towards the rider whom she hasn't identified yet. Her vision moved behind them to see yet another horse moving their way towards them. She sighed and looked back at Amber with a smile. "Stormy is entered in the turf Mile. He is three years old... even though he doesn't look it..." She laughed and smoothed his light mane. Kirsten was actually surprised that Amber did not know that Stormy was three years old. She obviously knew that Stormy preferred the turf so probably had seen him run before.

[Snowflake]

ooc|: lol i think you mean Amber. Marissa has only said hey so far. I'll reply tonight, when I should have some time.

[Kirsten Jade]

<sub>OOC:|| Sorry I was confused after Frosty said this line "Riding was Marissa Star, of course." I thought it meant that was who was riding her horse lol now it makes more sense

Ok Snowy just make sure you answer soon I don't want this rp to go inactive haha</sub>

[Snowflake]

I smiled. Yep, he's ready for it. I glanced over Impressario's sleek black body admiringly. No doubt in my mind the other colt was ready for it. How's Ario? I knew Impressario must be starting to feel the effects of a full on first season. He had run in about six or seven more races than Akuma, and had run probably every second weekend, whereas Akuma had run every three to four weeks.

My big colt flexed his muscles and glared at Impressario and Sand Storm. I petted him soothingly with one hand, while holding the reins firmly witht he other. The colt arched his neck, and chomped boredly on the bit as he surveyed the other two colts with a steady cold gaze.
What was surprising about Akuma was how quietly intimidating he was. Yet we had never had a real problem with him, apart from being nipped or bumped. He and I had finally built up a relationship about a month ago, the morning of his second most recent race, which we had gone on later to win.

[S u N f r O s t ~]

Wow, three? sorry, I must be getting confused. We have such a good crop of two year olds this year, I must have gotten this fabulous guy mixed up with them. It was kind of a compliment. Sand Storm was doing well this season, that I had known. My brain was so very foggy at the end of the season.....Breeder's Cup only a couple weeks away, and so little time to prepare! I was working my head off, and so was Krystal.

Ario stiffened as I spoke, his ears flattening against his head as he realized I was giving attention to the rider on Sand Storm and not to him. Jeez. This spotlight thing sometimes got annoying. I jerked lightly on the reins. Cut it. Now. The black two year old snorted once, and then relaxed. His wary gaze never left Sand Storm, though, and he flew back to Akuma every once in a while. I sensed a strong dislike of Akuma Battlecry in my colt, and decided to study the huge two year old more as I answered Marissa's question.

Ario is...... I hesitated, a bleak look creeping into my face. Well.....he's worked hard this season, and he seemed a bit tired after the last one. That's why we're out here, actually. Relaxing before the final blowout for the Juvenile. At least he's got experience on his side. And interestingly enough, he may seem tired, but he honestly just seems to be growing off of it. He acts like a year older then he really is....except, of course, for this spotlight nonsense.

Impressario instantly stiffened, very upset now by me giving attention to Akuma Battlecry - or at least, that's what it looked like to him. I jerked once on the reins, and examined Akuma even closer. I suddenly realized why Ario disliked Akuma so much. Akuma's quietly intimidating personality must have reminded Ario of Anarchi......and Ario really hated Anarchi.

[Kirsten Jade]

OOC:| Ok.

Kirsten suddenly noticed the horse and rider that she had noticed before slipped away into the shadows. Hmm... that was weird. She shook her head with confusion. Why would someone start to approach them and then turn the tail and leave? They must have recognized someone that they do not like or something.

She turned back to Amber with a smile. "Yeah, I see how you got mixed up... this was his first season because he had been kidnapped from our stable for a year and a half. I always thought he had potential though so it was pretty devastating for me." She paused. It was also around the time she lost her second child and slipped into a depression and then her husband just left her high and dry but that wasn't something she liked to talk about. She had been lucky that her personal life had been such a secret. If the press ever found out they would have a hay day.

She smiled as Amber and Marissa started talking together about their juvenile horses. She sat back to listen. After all they were Miracle's best challenge in the BC Juvenile...

[Snowflake]

I nodded in understanding, keeping Akuma firmly in hand in case he decided to go closer to the other colts. He just stood there, but i could see clearly that he was glaring at Impressario.
Akuma has been raced carefully. We don't want him to burn out. I said slowly. I had decided that Impressario had been raced too hard for a two year old, and it could affect his soundness and racing spirit. I didn't mention this though - Amber was older and more experienced than I was, so I thought she must know what she was doing.
I'm pretty confident about his chances now for the Juvenile. Akuma hasn't raced for nearly three weeks now and, as you can see, he's fitter than ever. I almost spilled our training secrets then. But I caught myself just in time. Akuma and I had bonded finally, after months of misunderstanding between us.

[S u N f r O s t ~]

I bit hard on my lip to conceal the glare I could feel rising up. I could tell what Marissa was thinking right behind her statement. Akuma has been raced carefully. We don't want him to burn out. Simply, she was implying that she thought Ario had been raced too much for his age. I thought a bit of the same, but my colt was strong. Did he move wearily when he trotted now? Was his glare any less strong? Was his speed any lesser then the end of the season? Had his strength failed him? No.

I reassured myself quickly of our chances. Ario had experience, a perfect record, and plenty of bonding time with me. While Marissa had just bought Akuma somewhere in the middle of the season Ario had been with me since the beginning. Our bond was the strongest I've ever had - it seemed to be even stronger then the one I had with King - and he had used his will and heart to take down his rivals and pound them into the dust. He would not lose. He was my best friend, my companion. Our bond was extremely strong. He would not fail me.

I forced my face into a secretive smile. I wouldn't count Ario out at all. He hasn't raced for two weeks, and as you can see, he's more then fit. He's ready to go. And I knew he was.

My gaze turned to Kirsten and Sand Storm. He has more then potential. He's rounding out beautifully. It would be sad to lose such a a colt. How do your chances look in the Breeder's Cup?

[Kirsten Jade]

OOC:| You guys should delete those argumentative posts up above (with snowy and sam) to clean up the rp. I'm using this as Stormy's BC workout .

Kirsten glanced from one horse and rider to the other. The tension was definitely thick and she was the one in the middle. The horses were glaring at each other and shivering with competition and the riders were trying their best to be civil even though all three of them understand the tension in the air. Kirsten bit her lip to keep from laughing. She should really just stay out of the conversion... it was better that way...

She noticed that Amber was getting a little bit upset over Marissa's constant remarks and Marissa knew it. "Well..." She stopped as Amber shot back a comment to Marissa about Ario being ready.

Amber turned back to Kirsten with a compliment about Stormy. Kirsten grinned. She was so right about Stormy having more then just potential. She was glad it was not just her who noticed. "Thanks! Yeah the Breeder's Cup will be tough for my whole string and with our bad luck lately I'm not exactly looking forward to it. But we'll see... Stormy here is running against your Passionate Class" she turned to Marissa, "and Green Horse Stable's News Flash." She winked at Marissa and hid another smile.

[Snowflake]

I noticed Amber's expression darken as I spoke. Then she bit her lip. Ario shifted restlessly, probably picking up on the tension through the reins. Amber seemed to struggle for a few moments, then retorted, "I wouldn't count Ario out at all. He hasn't raced for two weeks, and as you can see, he's more then fit. He's ready to go." with a forced smile.
I just shrugged and smiled back sweetly, petting Akuma as Amber turned suddenly to Kirsten.

Kirsten had a grin on her face, which widened when Amber complimented her handsome chestnut. Then she named two competitiors in her horse's race, one of which included News Flash, my sister's four year old colt.
Yes.. Sarah isn't sure about News Flash. I shrugged. His heart doesn't seem in it anymore. It was true. News Flash hadn't run much this season, and had only won twice, or maybe three times. He had won his most recent race, but since there was only one other horse entered, it hadn't been much of an accomplishent. Sarah thought the best we could get from him in the Breeder's Cup was probably third.