;;Set Me``Free]]To Be..Me} .Open.

[tainted]

My tall, blonde figure led my horse into the arena. The palomino appaloosa gelding plodded along after me willingly, his head low as he seemed to doze. Left hand clasped his reins and my other, right hand, reached up to brush a golden lock of hair behind my ear as it fell in my face. Calm, blue-green eyes watched my own two feet as I absentmindedly hummed Don't Trust Me in my head. My t-shirt was blue, my jeans light.

Worn cowboy boots sink into the ground, making a sucking noise every time I lifted my boot to take a step. Behind me and to the left, Gold's feet did the same. The big gelding nickered softly as I stepped back a pace and lay my hand upon his golden neck. Chocolate-crown eyes watched me, and I lean into him a bit. After Alex's death I had been sad and depressed. A few years later I'd gotten Golden Goodbye, much to my father's distaste, and he was now my everything. Clucking once softly with my tongue, I stopped Gold. Walking around to his left side, I stopped, facing the saddle. My right hand rest on the white blanket that covered his golden pelt, and then moved to the back of the old Western saddle. My left had the reins, and the horn of the saddle. Bouncing once, I placed my left foot in the stirrup and pulled my right leg over.

Now, seated in the saddle once more, I sighed, then clucked my tongue, a signal for the gelding to walk forward once more. The feeling of protection overtook me, and I new that as long as I was with my love, that I would be safe. Golden Goodbye's rhythmic steps carried me along the edge of the arena, where it was not so muddy. After a few moments at this slow pace, I made a kissing sound twice. Gracefully he molded into a trot, and I bounced along, enjoying every second. Leaning in a bit over his neck, she whistled low, and soft, and instantly he broke into a fluid jog. The feeling of being free was almost suffocating, but she enjoyed it so much. They were one in this glorious moment, and they were free.

Word count~ 379
Muse~ Eh.
Open~ Yep.
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[(ALEX)]

SONJA HAD SPENT WELL OVER

[/size] twenty-five minutes grooming and tacking up one of the stable's school horses, known as Blue, in hopes of forming some sort of relationship before riding. As soon as she had seen the dappled grey gelding, she was drawn to him like a moth to a flame, for Sonja had always been attracted to such colorization on a horse. No, she wasn't the type of rider to expect a horse to be ready in advance, or the type to put forth little to no effort in grooming or tacking up. Instead, Sonja was the kind of rider who puts the horse before anything else, and she certainly believed in spending a hefty amount of time grooming and giving the horse her full attention. In fact, Sonja rarely ever laid a hand on a horse, but if she ever did resort to such measures, it was a pathetic attempt at a slap. If anything, it looked more like a clap against the horse's neck, much like one you'd deliver in praise after clearing a challenging obstacle.

Sonja had decided on her favorite saddle pad to ride in today -- a plum tone in color with her initials stitched in white on one lower corner. With some assistance from a stable hand passing by, she had finally succeeded in locating Blue's bridle. Sonja had been given a tour a few days prior, but hadn't been told which bridle goes with which horse. Thankfully, she knew where just about everything else could be found, so after pulling the reins over Blue's head, she led him to the indoor arena for a short ride... just enough to get her bearings on the massive Thoroughbred she'd be riding in future lessons.

It had rained the night before, causing far too many puddles for Sonja's liking in the outdoor arena, yet somehow the rain had managed to seep its way through the roofing of the indoor arena and form a few soft spots in the footing as well. Sonja shrugged it off, she wouldn't be riding too vigorously anyway, and led Blue to the mounting block (she certainly needed it) with a stirring of excitement arising within.

Noticing another pair in the arena, Sonja found herself watching the duo trot -- well, jog -- around the ring. She hadn't ridden Western since a summer camp back when she was eight years old. Sonja certainly enjoyed it, and suddenly realized how much she wanted to try herself at it again. Focusing back on Blue, she stepped upon the mounting block, grabbed a fistful of reins in her right hand, then slipped her left foot into the stirrup and swiftly swung into the saddle. Nudging Blue into a walk, she let him travel on a loose rein as she fidgeted with her helmet and adjusted her T-shirt, which was smudged with dirt by now. Not such a bright idea to wear a white shirt to the barn, but who was there to impress? Lifting her gaze to the other pair, as there wasn't much else to do at the walk, she watched them for a moment more before directing her attention back to the gelding. His fluid movement made Sonja feel right at home, his ears alert and swiveling at the slightest sound. Blue was at attention, but certainly not hyped up. Sonja absentmindedly gave his shoulder a pat before asking for the trot.

At first, Blue hurriedly jumped forward into a somewhat rushed pace, but Sonja squeezed the reins and half-halted him until the gelding eased back into a more comfortable trot. They advanced down the railing, careful to avoid the soft spots in the footing as Sonja sent Blue into circles and serpentines. Minutes passed until she brought him back into the walk, making a mental note to practice her sitting trot before dismounting and heading back to the barn. She swept her gaze across the ring, sending a friendly smile the accompanying rider's way in hopes of making a new acquaintance. She wasn't going to be riding much longer, anyway; why not meet someone new?[/center][/blockquote][/blockquote]

Word Count: 683[/font][/size]

[tainted]

Baby-blue sky was laced with fluffy, white clouds, and birds soared higher and higher, reaching great heights. Outside the arena, lush green grass swayed softly in the cool morning breeze that carried the essence of straw and horses. Sighing deeply, I took this all in as we continuted at our jog. For a few minutes we stayed at this pace until I could feel Gold tiring ever so slighty under me. Reins in my left hand, I pulled back minutely, and in one graceful movement he slowed to a tight, clean trot. Sitting straight up in the saddle, I rode with with for a few moments and then pulled again and asked him to walk with a gentle tug on the reins. We plodded alon at this pace, and I thought of home. My mom, the always caring adn supporting dentist. My dad, the drunk gambler who did nothing but hurt us. And my lost brother, so great and good to me, my heart aches to think of it. All of the times we rode. The accident, the pain and hurt. My dad, nearly killing himself with alcohol, the beatins and ridiculef rom him I've recieved ever since. Abouthow this is my fault and how I killed him by riding.

In the background I could hear the hoofbeats of another horse, but I didn't think too much of it. Anyway, I turned me head to see, and saw a big, dappled grey and the gelding's female rider. I noticed that she rode English, and remembered my disastirous attempt at it. Western was my type, well I like bareback best. But I don't think you are allowed to ride bareback.. Are you? Oh. And I needed to buy some more tack.. A show saddle was deifantly needed if I was going to be showing any time soon. I hoped I can win, I have the will and the determination, and Gold is there for me.

And here I am, daydreaming again. Turning my attention back to them, I watch with interest. The rider was pretty, and Blue looked like a great horse. Ah. I think he is one of the barn horses. I should go see them later, maybe give Godl a break to adjust to his new surroundings. So far I hadn't even been to my dorm, just got here and grabbed Gold from the trailer. I could tell that he was greatful for the stretch of his legs after the five hour ride. I knew I was. They followed the rail, careful to avoid soft spots, and did circles and serpentines. But then they slowed to a walk. I rubbed Gold's neck and then turned him left, and touched his barrel with my right heel. He obeyed, as usualy, and turned. The other rider smiled, and I smiled back. Riding up along side her and stopping, I laughed because Blue was a bood bit taller than Gold. My high, saprano voice said through parted lips, "Hey. I'm Mae, and this Golden Goodbye, Gold for short."

Word Count~ 506
Muse~ Okay.

[(ALEX)]

SONJA'S SMILE WAS RETURNED BY the accompanying rider, which surprised her. Slightly. Back in Nevada, where Sonja was raised, the act was practically unheard of. She had always hated her town due to the fact that everyone came off as having a stick shoved up their ass. Sonja was the only individual that at least tried to make an effort at being nice, which she succeeded in doing the majority of the time. Despite being a sweet girl, her focus was always on her school work, thus earning her very few friends to date. Every so often loneliness would consume her thoughts because of her lack of friendships, but when she was riding all of Sonja's troubles seemed to escape her mind for the time being. Here, Sonja noticed a tremendous change in personalities compared to what she was used to. And it was a definite plus. Either her sweet temperament would clash with the others, or mesh together well. Sonja looked forward to finding out.

The girl introduced herself and her horse and Sonja then realized how striking Gold's appearance was. "I'm Sonja Jones, and this is Blue. He's one of the school horses." She said before quickly adding, "but I'm sure you already knew that." She turned a noticeable shade of red after realizing that Mae was more than likely most familiar with River's Edge Riding Academy. She decided to change the subject. "He's gorgeous!" She breathed, gesturing towards the Appaloosa. "To be honest, I've never seen a... palomino? Appaloosa before." Sonja wasn't quite familiar with markings on such breeds, but she did know all about blacks, browns, bays, chestnuts, and so on. When it came down to Appaloosas and Paints, however, she was pretty much clueless as far as their markings and colorization go.

Sonja's gaze was then drawn to Mae's facial structure, unusual but undoubtedly pretty. She did notice such things about other individuals, and Mae's high cheekbones and slender face was certainly making Sonja feel a tad bit jealous. Sure, she had distinguished cheekbones herself, but she considered her appearance so ordinary. Mae, on the other hand, was definitely the opposite of such.

Sonja idly gave Blue's shoulder a pat as he pawed at the footing and released a breath that fluttered his nostrils. She circled him in hope of relieving his obvious boredom before crossing the ring and inviting the duo to join her and Blue as they walked along the railing. "He's getting kind of inpatient." Sonja explained with a laugh. Her eyes swept over her surroundings, noticing only one set of standards sitting in the center of the ring. Three poles were laid out between them, spread out enough to be considered trot poles. She would work Blue over them soon, and perhaps make a cross rail to practice her equitation over later.

The morning sun's rays shone brightly through the windows of the arena, casting shadows and hot spots across the footing. Sonja was always intrigued and fascinated by how beautiful the world appeared in the morning, however hard it was for her to wake up so early. She actually hadn't gotten much sleep the past few days -- the faded circles beneath her eyes probably let anyone know of that. It seemed like the less hours of sleep Sonja received, the easier it was to wake up in the morning. She shrugged to herself, not really caring at the moment how tired she felt. Besides, if she hadn't of rolled out of bed at 6:30 today she wouldn't have met Mae, who was the closest thing to a friend Sonja had here. See, everything does happen for a reason.

Word Count: 609
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[tainted]

Us two pairs, horses and riders, sat in the warm morning's sun and visited, new to eachothers's company. The dark-haired female introduced herself as Sonja, and I smiled. It was an unusual name, but a pretty one at that. She appeared to be a little shy, by the way she blushed, and reminded me of myself for a moment. Color always seemed to flush my face, too. The poor thing blushed even a shade redder when she introduced Blue, and I only nodded, not wanting to bring attention to the fact that yes, I had known that. Sonja then turned her attention to Gold, and I smiled. "Yes, he's a palomino appaloosa. The sun was getting warmer, I could feel it on my back, and Gold shifted idly, probably reposition his weight. She explained the Blue was getting restless, and I smiled, watching her and patting Gold.

As I watched the other female, I saw dark, brown hair, beautifully complimented by hazel eyes. She had a small round nose that looked nice on her face and high-set cheekbones that stood out and gave her a striking appearance. She was pretty. So far she seemed sweet and a bit shy; I think that we could be great friends. I am not a bragger, but I am pretty myself. I don't think I am beautiful or gorgeous, but I am not ugly. Golden is the beautiful one. He's got a short, stocky body, perfect for barrels. His sleek, shiny coat is a brilliant gold color, and is splashed with pure, snow-white droplets. He's got a short, lean body and is over all handsome and very pretty. He's a fine example of his breed, and I'm proud to own him.

I became aware of the other rider and horse, and turned to them, watching. the breath caught in my throat as I saw the new horse, a dark bay, just as my brother's horse had been. I felt a tug on my heart, and sighed inwardly. No matter how long ago he had died, it never stopped hurting. The mare was clad in purple, and I smiled. They, too, warmed up and trotted, going through all the normal figurines and works. I wasn't surprised when she came over. Hey "Heyy, I'm Mae, and this is Golden Goodbye, Gold for short." I looked to Sonja and decided to let her introduce herself. I flashed a smile to Sonja and then back to the new rider.

Words~ 413?
Muse~ Gross.

[huntersgotstyle]

ooc;; speaking of hayden, is it ok if she drops by? if not delete this reply.

ic;;
I walked towards the ring, Izzy following closely behind. Izzy was a fairly laid back mare, not near as much as the geldings but she wasn’t a spazz. She was decked head to tail in purple gear, she had purple open front boots, purple saddle pad and a purple crop that I had stowed away down the middle of the saddle. She looked gorgeous in purple, but you could tell she had been clipped during the winter because her bay coat was so light she looked almost buckskin, but she still looked okay in purple. I felt the slack in the reins leave and gave a small tug on the brown leather and clucked softly. She kept walking but she was noticeably slow. I didn’t bother correcting her, I wasn’t exactly leading her properly. Izzy loved to move, when there were jumps. As for flat work, she was nothing. Lazy as ever, meaning she was a pretty terrible hunter. Go, Go, Go and nothing after her three jumping rounds.

I looked into the arena, a girl riding western and the girl from the tack room. Hopefully they wouldn’t mind me jumping, Izzy had had her flatwork day yesterday and my legs couldn’t take another. I looked at myself and was glad neither of them were overly well dressed, I wore a pair of old tall boots I’d shown in a few seasons ago( Due to my lack of growing, everything just moved from show ring to schooling as my little sister was taller then me), dark tan breeches, a black light spandex track jacket that wicked away sweat nicely. I slipped my old IRH helmet with little jewels around the vents on my head and then mounted the mare effortlessly as she gazed at the other horses. I pushed Izzy into a forward walk smiling as a rubbed the crop against her shoulder so that she’d know I had it-sometimes that resulted in less leg. Izzy marched on, meaning for a normal jumper she was walking, and I started warming her up. I did small circles, large circles, leg yields and bending of all sorts. I felt Izzy start to get bored and new she’d had enough warm up, so I pushed her into a nice forward trot.

I was still planning what I wanted to do over fences today, preferably a course but since other people were riding that seemed a little rude. What could a do with a couple of jumps? Maybe a line down the quarter line, that would be nice. Izzy needed the most work with jumping a whole bunch of jumps together, so a line of bounces would be fun. Or I could stick to flat work again, but that was painful. I hate flatwork, with a passion and this mare did not help at all. Though she had to be the worst for flat work ever, at least in horses I rode. But devoting one day a week and three quarters of every ride was pushing it for me- thank god for the other two horses. I felt her start to dog it some more and pushed myself into a more forward seat and gave her a slight kick and when she ignored my legs and tap with the crop. This time she went forward, and her trot regained the spring. I though about putting some poles down, she picked up a little over those but it was like a spruce meadow horse showing X’s, they just kind of trip over them bored. I started shortening on the short sides and lengthening on the long sides, making her think. Once she was fairly loose and listening to me I allowed her to take a short walking break to speak to the others. I had heard their voices in the air but had been to concentrated to actual hear what they were saying. “Hey” I said, speaking up and feeling slightly more courageous then usual since I kind of, sort of, knew the one girl. I hated not knowing everybody.

word count;; 676
muse;; you can tell it's been awhile since I roleplayed..

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[(ALEX)]

Sorry :/ I'm on another rp too and I just get really confused with everyone. D: hah.

[Innocence]

Mm. I replied.. It just doen't show up because of Alex's last reply; I modified my old post that I FINALLY finished.