February Year Fourteen
Workouts
Call of the Wild & Fleet Majesty.
Wish Upon A Star & Forbidden To Fly.
Royal Assassin & Demonic Desires & In The Spotlight.
CALL TO MAJESTY.
Call of the Wild & Krystal Yhate.
Fleet Majesty & Amber Black.
Don't give me any crap about that last race Krystal. You and Call were completely poised to do better in that race and instead you got dead last. Screw The Devil's Hourglass. You could have gotten Majestic Hero or Samhain. What the heck was going on in that race? Krystal Yhate kept her expression carefully neutral as she listened to the fire-breathing dragon that was her boss and best friend right now, fully aware of exactly what was going on here. Amber had been non-stop enraged since last week's races had run. In fact, she had been livid and had directed her anger towards the people around her. Krystal knew better. She had worked with Amber for the longest and knew her better than anybody. She knew what was running through Amber's mind that had her so upset - it was the fact that their best horses had just about all lost to horses they should and could have defeated last week. Lynara to Cross My Heart, Ventura to Mastermind, Anna to Paranormal Hunter, Ed to Supernatural. And there was one culprit - Witch Creek's horses had all the racing luck last month. Never had Stride Of Perfection had such a perfectly dismal opening month of the season. It was disheartening, to say the very least, and now the stable's Turf Triple Crown hopefuls were once again not up to par.
Amber had been keeping up this steady rant of anger directed right at her second-in-command. Krystal knew that she was just trying to hide her insecurities behind a curtain of anger. It wasn't going to work on Krystal. Sure, the comments stung, and some of them even rang true within Krystal's own dark thoughts, but she absorbed them like a sponge and did not redirect them or voice any objections. She stayed quiet and let Amber run her mouth. The small black haired green eyed woman was on an absolute tirade as she rode the one horse who had not failed her last month. Fleet Majesty had matured beautifully into her four year old body. She looked ethereal and gorgeous, each step lightly placed and eyes shining with quiet confidence and power. She had had a flying start to Year Fourteen as well, with a win and a second place finish. She was scheduled for bigger and better things this season and was truly coming into her own. And she would only improve with time as well. Krystal knew that yet Amber was having doubts. Krystal could see it in her eyes, the endless worry and concern Amber felt for the future of the stable. Sometimes Krystal wished she could run Amber over on the back of a thoroughbred in order to bring her back to reality. All they needed to do was wait for the luck to come their way. And work their butts off of course.
The sour taste of defeat remained in Krystal's mouth as she continued to tune Amber out and warmed Call Of The Wild up. The son of Foolish Lad and Wild Flower would be the final foal raced by his dam in the stable. He had a good nature and was easy to handle, and had grown on Krystal mainly because he keenly reminded her of his sire Foolish Lad. Laddy had never truly gotten the respect he deserved, but he had ended his career by winning the Breeders Cup Turf and contributing to Stride Of Perfection's turf legacy. Which appeared to be rapidly diminishing. Krystal frowned, the anger growing in her heart worming its way to the surface of her mind. Stride Of Perfection would rise again. One month would not define them, not when they had another eleven for payback. Her thoughts veered to Call. The colt was almost firmly set on the Turf Triple Crown trail, depending on his next few performances. The American Derby performance was one she would throw out the window. They could improve so much by Turf Triple Crown time and deny The Devil's Hourglass another sweep for Witch Creek. Krystal was done with being walked all over by that crew. They had been getting cocky and arrogant now. Little did they know that every person in SOPS was hell bent on making them cry by the end of the season.
Krystal's eyes burned and she finally snapped a retort to Amber's rant. Shut up and tell me what we're doing today she commanded, her tone hard. Amber abruptly stopped mid-sentence, shocked that Krystal had spoken so harshly to her. Her green eyes glowed with indignation. Classic she stated shortly. Fine. Anything else you want to say? It's time to get going snapped Krystal back. I don't know if you realized this yet, but Call and I have two races to win this month and you're not helping with your negativity. Do you think you could just shut up for about five minutes and focus? Krystal never spoke this harshly. Realization dawned in Amber's eyes. Just what had she been doing and saying for the last fifteen minutes? She snapped to attention. Mage had been moving choppily before, obviously distressed, but she straightened out now as renewed energy and vigor seeped into her rider. The ghost gray mare neighed once, settling more comfortably over the turf track. A challenge gleamed in her eyes as she appraised the younger colt at her side. Call seemingly paid no attention, but the cunning was there in his eyes. He was not to be walked all over. He was to succeed.
The two thoroughbreds accelerated to a gallop, remaining side by side. Both were closers for very different reasons. Call liked to enjoy the race, and Mage just liked the thrill of the hunt. Her eyes gleamed with excitement as she found her competitor sticking to her every step of the way, strong and true. She liked that. Krystal glanced out of the corner of her eye and saw Amber relax into the saddle, the tension flowing out of her figure. It seemed as though she was finally getting ready to roll again, and Mage appeared more sprightly as a result. They have to be careful. Krystal focused on her own mount. Call was galloping smoothly, ground eating strides eating up the turf. He was a beautiful mover and his pedigree was loaded with turf talent. It was all there waiting to be unlocked. Bad luck had ended them last time out, but no more. Their campaign for the Turf Triple Crown would be short but sweet, giving them everything they needed. It was in Call's blood to do well and excel, and he would. The Sassonogen Stakes would fall to them, and then the Coronation Cup. From there they would hit the Prince Cup and the Derby Stakes before taking a month off before the Kentucky Open. Ambition surged within Krystal's veins as she pondered the series. Stride Of Perfection had long sought to have a winner but never managed to have one. Maybe Call, as unlikely as it would seem, would be their horse. She had had a feeling about him ever since she had trained him as a yearling. He could be the one for her and for SOPS.
But first he had to get through game competition first, like Mage. The gray mare stubbornly stuck to them like glue, not slowing down or giving up. She was rock solid competition and sharp as tack. Call had to step up his game. The colt was so far maintaining a cool head and rating his speed fantastically. He would not be duped. He stayed strong and true right through the one mile gallop. When the two furlong blitz came he took off on command, but was shortly passed by Mage. The gray mare stormed right by with the lead, her eyes furious. Krystal wondered what had gotten into the mare until she saw the muted rage plastered all over Amber's face. Amber Black was hell bent with her fury and her will was transferring to her horse. Mage sprinted away like the demons of hell were chasing her and Krystal smirked lowly. This is a challenge boy. Knock 'em dead she whispered. Call heard her, and when she began to urge him on it was more heart felt than ever before. Her smirk turned into a smile and then a wide, gleeful smile as Call responded. The bay colt dug in and gave it everything he had.
There was no comparison to the exhilaration of thoroughbred racing. Krystal felt alive as the bay colt nobody thought was in with a chance gave it everything he had. He was liquid fire as he moved, his strides ginormous as he ran down the fleeing gray mare. They hooked to her inside and then sprinted past in a burst of sudden speed just before the end of the workout. Krystal laughed, and as she laughed Amber heard her and grinned. She also heard Krystal's sudden exclamation - Ladies and gentlemen, this is unbelievable. From nowhere, Call of the Wild has done it! He's taken the Kentucky Open! Amber grinned at that some more, wondered if it could come true and resolved to make it come true. Her face was set with determination as she rode up to Krystal, made eye contact with her and nodded once, slowly. Krystal's eyes immediately became more serious. She understood Amber completely, understood the seriousness and meaning behind that nod. She looked down at the proud curve of Call's bay neck and back up to Amber's eyes. Thank you...for not giving up on us yet she said, seriously. Amber nodded. Things have been tough lately Krystal. You better than anyone else understands how failure affects me. Thank you for not losing faith in me. Krystal smiled slightly at that. Never, Amber. I'll be here for you, always. Amber's green eyes moistened slightly at that, but she held the tears in, brusquely nodding in an effort to cover up her obvious emotion before departing.
Krystal watched her go, a small smile on her face.
Amber had been keeping up this steady rant of anger directed right at her second-in-command. Krystal knew that she was just trying to hide her insecurities behind a curtain of anger. It wasn't going to work on Krystal. Sure, the comments stung, and some of them even rang true within Krystal's own dark thoughts, but she absorbed them like a sponge and did not redirect them or voice any objections. She stayed quiet and let Amber run her mouth. The small black haired green eyed woman was on an absolute tirade as she rode the one horse who had not failed her last month. Fleet Majesty had matured beautifully into her four year old body. She looked ethereal and gorgeous, each step lightly placed and eyes shining with quiet confidence and power. She had had a flying start to Year Fourteen as well, with a win and a second place finish. She was scheduled for bigger and better things this season and was truly coming into her own. And she would only improve with time as well. Krystal knew that yet Amber was having doubts. Krystal could see it in her eyes, the endless worry and concern Amber felt for the future of the stable. Sometimes Krystal wished she could run Amber over on the back of a thoroughbred in order to bring her back to reality. All they needed to do was wait for the luck to come their way. And work their butts off of course.
The sour taste of defeat remained in Krystal's mouth as she continued to tune Amber out and warmed Call Of The Wild up. The son of Foolish Lad and Wild Flower would be the final foal raced by his dam in the stable. He had a good nature and was easy to handle, and had grown on Krystal mainly because he keenly reminded her of his sire Foolish Lad. Laddy had never truly gotten the respect he deserved, but he had ended his career by winning the Breeders Cup Turf and contributing to Stride Of Perfection's turf legacy. Which appeared to be rapidly diminishing. Krystal frowned, the anger growing in her heart worming its way to the surface of her mind. Stride Of Perfection would rise again. One month would not define them, not when they had another eleven for payback. Her thoughts veered to Call. The colt was almost firmly set on the Turf Triple Crown trail, depending on his next few performances. The American Derby performance was one she would throw out the window. They could improve so much by Turf Triple Crown time and deny The Devil's Hourglass another sweep for Witch Creek. Krystal was done with being walked all over by that crew. They had been getting cocky and arrogant now. Little did they know that every person in SOPS was hell bent on making them cry by the end of the season.
Krystal's eyes burned and she finally snapped a retort to Amber's rant. Shut up and tell me what we're doing today she commanded, her tone hard. Amber abruptly stopped mid-sentence, shocked that Krystal had spoken so harshly to her. Her green eyes glowed with indignation. Classic she stated shortly. Fine. Anything else you want to say? It's time to get going snapped Krystal back. I don't know if you realized this yet, but Call and I have two races to win this month and you're not helping with your negativity. Do you think you could just shut up for about five minutes and focus? Krystal never spoke this harshly. Realization dawned in Amber's eyes. Just what had she been doing and saying for the last fifteen minutes? She snapped to attention. Mage had been moving choppily before, obviously distressed, but she straightened out now as renewed energy and vigor seeped into her rider. The ghost gray mare neighed once, settling more comfortably over the turf track. A challenge gleamed in her eyes as she appraised the younger colt at her side. Call seemingly paid no attention, but the cunning was there in his eyes. He was not to be walked all over. He was to succeed.
The two thoroughbreds accelerated to a gallop, remaining side by side. Both were closers for very different reasons. Call liked to enjoy the race, and Mage just liked the thrill of the hunt. Her eyes gleamed with excitement as she found her competitor sticking to her every step of the way, strong and true. She liked that. Krystal glanced out of the corner of her eye and saw Amber relax into the saddle, the tension flowing out of her figure. It seemed as though she was finally getting ready to roll again, and Mage appeared more sprightly as a result. They have to be careful. Krystal focused on her own mount. Call was galloping smoothly, ground eating strides eating up the turf. He was a beautiful mover and his pedigree was loaded with turf talent. It was all there waiting to be unlocked. Bad luck had ended them last time out, but no more. Their campaign for the Turf Triple Crown would be short but sweet, giving them everything they needed. It was in Call's blood to do well and excel, and he would. The Sassonogen Stakes would fall to them, and then the Coronation Cup. From there they would hit the Prince Cup and the Derby Stakes before taking a month off before the Kentucky Open. Ambition surged within Krystal's veins as she pondered the series. Stride Of Perfection had long sought to have a winner but never managed to have one. Maybe Call, as unlikely as it would seem, would be their horse. She had had a feeling about him ever since she had trained him as a yearling. He could be the one for her and for SOPS.
But first he had to get through game competition first, like Mage. The gray mare stubbornly stuck to them like glue, not slowing down or giving up. She was rock solid competition and sharp as tack. Call had to step up his game. The colt was so far maintaining a cool head and rating his speed fantastically. He would not be duped. He stayed strong and true right through the one mile gallop. When the two furlong blitz came he took off on command, but was shortly passed by Mage. The gray mare stormed right by with the lead, her eyes furious. Krystal wondered what had gotten into the mare until she saw the muted rage plastered all over Amber's face. Amber Black was hell bent with her fury and her will was transferring to her horse. Mage sprinted away like the demons of hell were chasing her and Krystal smirked lowly. This is a challenge boy. Knock 'em dead she whispered. Call heard her, and when she began to urge him on it was more heart felt than ever before. Her smirk turned into a smile and then a wide, gleeful smile as Call responded. The bay colt dug in and gave it everything he had.
There was no comparison to the exhilaration of thoroughbred racing. Krystal felt alive as the bay colt nobody thought was in with a chance gave it everything he had. He was liquid fire as he moved, his strides ginormous as he ran down the fleeing gray mare. They hooked to her inside and then sprinted past in a burst of sudden speed just before the end of the workout. Krystal laughed, and as she laughed Amber heard her and grinned. She also heard Krystal's sudden exclamation - Ladies and gentlemen, this is unbelievable. From nowhere, Call of the Wild has done it! He's taken the Kentucky Open! Amber grinned at that some more, wondered if it could come true and resolved to make it come true. Her face was set with determination as she rode up to Krystal, made eye contact with her and nodded once, slowly. Krystal's eyes immediately became more serious. She understood Amber completely, understood the seriousness and meaning behind that nod. She looked down at the proud curve of Call's bay neck and back up to Amber's eyes. Thank you...for not giving up on us yet she said, seriously. Amber nodded. Things have been tough lately Krystal. You better than anyone else understands how failure affects me. Thank you for not losing faith in me. Krystal smiled slightly at that. Never, Amber. I'll be here for you, always. Amber's green eyes moistened slightly at that, but she held the tears in, brusquely nodding in an effort to cover up her obvious emotion before departing.
Krystal watched her go, a small smile on her face.
SKYHIGH.
Wish Upon A Star & Krystal Yhate.
Forbidden To Fly & Henna Turath.
So how was your experience with the Queen of Gloom? asked Henna Turath glumly, her usually bright honey colored eyes dark with worry and her form sparked with annoyance. Krystal had gotten back to the track just ten minutes after her last workout with Wish Upon A Star in tow. It hadn't been hard to locate Henna, who as always had been aboard the loudspeaker stallion Forbidden To Fly. Krystal frowned slightly, her dark brown eyes flashing. Watch it Henna. You know how she gets. Henna sighed. Yes, I know how Amber gets, but come on! It's racing luck. Things will improve with time she stated confidently. Krystal inclined her head in a neutral gesture. Henna pouted. What's that supposed to mean Ms. Second-In-Command? Krystal smirked at Henna's confusion and accelerated, making Henna complain half-jokingly before catching up to her. Fly easily matched Wish's pace, his quick strides in tune with his near constant neighing. Wish snorted, her eyes sparkling with the enjoyment of challenge. She drew herself up suddenly, a dark bay mare intent on victory, but as per usual the never-serious Fly didn't even notice her tactics. Wish would be a frustrated mare if she didn't figure out how Fly worked, fast. Krystal smirked at the antics and thought about her mount. Wish Upon A Star had found a forever home here. The pretty bay mare worked perfectly with her and Krystal wasn't letting her go. She was rock solid, not easily intimidated and a lover of distance running. Unfortunately, her racing luck was not constant. She'd won the New Year Dirt Stakes with style before somehow fading to last in the Green Horse Dirt. Krystal couldn't explain the suddenly bad performance but had thrown it out the window a long time ago. They were prepping for the Miracle Stakes this week and the Fusionelle Derby next week. If all went well, they'd go to the Spring Cup too for their first major appearance together. Krystal certainly hoped it did, for the sake of the stable's morale.
Henna suddenly turned her head fully to Krystal, aware that Fly was simply too silly to try much of anything. Seriously though. How is Amber doing? She nearly cried when me and Fly won the Unicorn Horn Dirt Sprint and actually did cry when she realized we had defended our title. And since then she's barely spoken to me, but locked herself up in that secret office of yours. I swear you know the combo to get in there. Krystal briefly considered going off on a tangent about the office in order to steer the conversation away from Amber, but she knew it would be pointless and Henna did have the right to know what was going on. Well...she's doing better after I trumped her ass on Call. She's committed to getting us to the winners' circle in the Open at least. Henna smiled encouragingly. Well, at least she's out of doom and gloom! Krystal shook her head slightly. Oh, we're not out of the water yet. Have you seen the entry lists for the Test Stakes and the Forego Stakes? Henna's face immediately became more serious, and she nodded. Oh yes. We're up against Mastermind in the Forego. Krystal nodded. You know what that means? Now Henna looked down at her gray stallion. Forbidden To Fly, the most uniquely annoying stallion in the barn, danced sideways and nearly bumped into Wish, who flattened her ears in annoyance and whinnied shrilly. I have to beat him she stated simply. We have to defend our title again and make up for our loss in the Breeders Cup Sprint. Hey, he's coming in off the Dubai World Sprint and the Unicorn Horn Dirt Mile...but Fly is good. And he's surprising, and he has rated speed and a clear target. We won't lose focus. This is the colt that took the Breeders Cup Juvenile through magical means Krystal, don't forget. And.... Her voice deepened. I want to beat that arrogant chestnut into the ground. Krystal smiled. That's the spirit girl! Henna laughed, and her horse skittered sideways with her happiness, picking up on it and enjoying it. His lightning fast movements did not escape Krystal's notice. The five year old was a truly gorgeous creature and he could be capable of a fantastic season this year if the Unicorn Horn Dirt Sprint was any indicator.
Krystal wondered about the fate of her own mare. Wish and her were still working out the kinks, but they were very strong marathoners and they would be shadowing Sweet Inferno, the toughest marathoner in the barn, for the majority of the season. Their coming out race would be in the Lady's Secret. After that...they would be on the map. Krystal grinned, eyes twinkling. Their competition would fear them by the end of Year Fourteen. A nudge from Henna attracted her attention, and she turned to find her friend grinning widely. What? she questioned. Henna smirked. You're plotting to take over the world she stated in a dead-pan voice. Krystal smirked and did not deny or confirm the claim. The silence lasted for all of three seconds before both women burst out laughing uncontrollably. Wish snorted, displeased with the frivolity and wanting to get back to the workout, but she wasn't as insisting or demanding as she had been. She had softened up a bit since coming to SOPS and seemed to enjoy more things about running and racing than before. I don't know what we'd do without you speed demon declared Krystal, her eyes merry. Anyway, Amber neglected to mention what she wanted for this workout. How about a mile gallop for you with a four furlong blitz at the end? Me and Wish will do a mile and a quarter gallop with a two furlong blitz. Make sure we don't catch up! Henna cackled. You guys don't stand a chance of that. Fly's quick as lightning. Krystal retorted He's as silly as a two year old, and lacks the focus of a weanling. Henna snorted. Let's just go! Krystal couldn't agree more, and a smile remained on her face as they began to warm up and then gallop.
Fly definitely was lightning quick on his feet. He was in fantastic form and Henna honestly thought he had never felt better. They marched over the dirt track and Fly was suddenly focused. He knew there was competition and he put himself together enough. He had come such a long way. He still acted silly and lacked focus before a race, but during a race he was one hundred percent focused and listening. Just like right now. Henna dreamed of win number twenty-seven and smirked widely as, all on his own, Fly accelerated slightly to clinch the lead. Wish snorted and settled, her marathon instincts tuning in as she waited for the right moment to pounce. Cunning intelligence glittered in the mare's eyes. She was not to be underestimated in any of her starts and was most certainly a rising star. Krystal did nothing but let the mare run. Nothing else was required - she was like a seasoned professional. She could go turf or dirt if Krystal wanted, though the dirt seemed to be more to her liking right now. And Forbidden To Fly was swift competition. Wish could use his speed. The mare was rock solid as she tracked her opponent around the turn. Her focus never broke for an instant, and her constant presence at Fly's side kept the scatter-brained stallion focused as well.
They galloped down the backstretch and around the final turn, still side by side. Now Henna let her stallion out. The gray exploded into his sprint as they raced down the homestretch, unadulterated joy gleaming in his eyes and filling the air around him. Forbidden To Fly was off. The son of Flying Colours and Forbidden Wings was undeniably quick as he bore down the stretch, whipping under the wire and running his first quarter in twenty one flat with untapped speed waiting in the wings. He was in the best form of his career and Henna laughed into the wind as she welcomed the feel of speed beneath her legs. This was what it meant to gallop a sprinter. Behind them, Wish Upon A Star was just starting her run. The sight of Forbidden To Fly so many lengths ahead of her was working as extra motivation for the dark bay Everyday Hero daughter. She was a tsunamii bearing down on the land, scorching the dirt beneath her feet as she propelled herself forward with muscular hindquarters and unbendable, undying willpower.
As Fly finished his workout and eased up, Wish came storming by five seconds later, speed not ceasing until she had buried the gray stallion in a hurricane of dirt. Krystal laughed as she eased the bay mare up. Wish was only getting better and better while Fly was loaded with speed and focus. Their next races could very well be theirs if luck held with them on race day.
Henna suddenly turned her head fully to Krystal, aware that Fly was simply too silly to try much of anything. Seriously though. How is Amber doing? She nearly cried when me and Fly won the Unicorn Horn Dirt Sprint and actually did cry when she realized we had defended our title. And since then she's barely spoken to me, but locked herself up in that secret office of yours. I swear you know the combo to get in there. Krystal briefly considered going off on a tangent about the office in order to steer the conversation away from Amber, but she knew it would be pointless and Henna did have the right to know what was going on. Well...she's doing better after I trumped her ass on Call. She's committed to getting us to the winners' circle in the Open at least. Henna smiled encouragingly. Well, at least she's out of doom and gloom! Krystal shook her head slightly. Oh, we're not out of the water yet. Have you seen the entry lists for the Test Stakes and the Forego Stakes? Henna's face immediately became more serious, and she nodded. Oh yes. We're up against Mastermind in the Forego. Krystal nodded. You know what that means? Now Henna looked down at her gray stallion. Forbidden To Fly, the most uniquely annoying stallion in the barn, danced sideways and nearly bumped into Wish, who flattened her ears in annoyance and whinnied shrilly. I have to beat him she stated simply. We have to defend our title again and make up for our loss in the Breeders Cup Sprint. Hey, he's coming in off the Dubai World Sprint and the Unicorn Horn Dirt Mile...but Fly is good. And he's surprising, and he has rated speed and a clear target. We won't lose focus. This is the colt that took the Breeders Cup Juvenile through magical means Krystal, don't forget. And.... Her voice deepened. I want to beat that arrogant chestnut into the ground. Krystal smiled. That's the spirit girl! Henna laughed, and her horse skittered sideways with her happiness, picking up on it and enjoying it. His lightning fast movements did not escape Krystal's notice. The five year old was a truly gorgeous creature and he could be capable of a fantastic season this year if the Unicorn Horn Dirt Sprint was any indicator.
Krystal wondered about the fate of her own mare. Wish and her were still working out the kinks, but they were very strong marathoners and they would be shadowing Sweet Inferno, the toughest marathoner in the barn, for the majority of the season. Their coming out race would be in the Lady's Secret. After that...they would be on the map. Krystal grinned, eyes twinkling. Their competition would fear them by the end of Year Fourteen. A nudge from Henna attracted her attention, and she turned to find her friend grinning widely. What? she questioned. Henna smirked. You're plotting to take over the world she stated in a dead-pan voice. Krystal smirked and did not deny or confirm the claim. The silence lasted for all of three seconds before both women burst out laughing uncontrollably. Wish snorted, displeased with the frivolity and wanting to get back to the workout, but she wasn't as insisting or demanding as she had been. She had softened up a bit since coming to SOPS and seemed to enjoy more things about running and racing than before. I don't know what we'd do without you speed demon declared Krystal, her eyes merry. Anyway, Amber neglected to mention what she wanted for this workout. How about a mile gallop for you with a four furlong blitz at the end? Me and Wish will do a mile and a quarter gallop with a two furlong blitz. Make sure we don't catch up! Henna cackled. You guys don't stand a chance of that. Fly's quick as lightning. Krystal retorted He's as silly as a two year old, and lacks the focus of a weanling. Henna snorted. Let's just go! Krystal couldn't agree more, and a smile remained on her face as they began to warm up and then gallop.
Fly definitely was lightning quick on his feet. He was in fantastic form and Henna honestly thought he had never felt better. They marched over the dirt track and Fly was suddenly focused. He knew there was competition and he put himself together enough. He had come such a long way. He still acted silly and lacked focus before a race, but during a race he was one hundred percent focused and listening. Just like right now. Henna dreamed of win number twenty-seven and smirked widely as, all on his own, Fly accelerated slightly to clinch the lead. Wish snorted and settled, her marathon instincts tuning in as she waited for the right moment to pounce. Cunning intelligence glittered in the mare's eyes. She was not to be underestimated in any of her starts and was most certainly a rising star. Krystal did nothing but let the mare run. Nothing else was required - she was like a seasoned professional. She could go turf or dirt if Krystal wanted, though the dirt seemed to be more to her liking right now. And Forbidden To Fly was swift competition. Wish could use his speed. The mare was rock solid as she tracked her opponent around the turn. Her focus never broke for an instant, and her constant presence at Fly's side kept the scatter-brained stallion focused as well.
They galloped down the backstretch and around the final turn, still side by side. Now Henna let her stallion out. The gray exploded into his sprint as they raced down the homestretch, unadulterated joy gleaming in his eyes and filling the air around him. Forbidden To Fly was off. The son of Flying Colours and Forbidden Wings was undeniably quick as he bore down the stretch, whipping under the wire and running his first quarter in twenty one flat with untapped speed waiting in the wings. He was in the best form of his career and Henna laughed into the wind as she welcomed the feel of speed beneath her legs. This was what it meant to gallop a sprinter. Behind them, Wish Upon A Star was just starting her run. The sight of Forbidden To Fly so many lengths ahead of her was working as extra motivation for the dark bay Everyday Hero daughter. She was a tsunamii bearing down on the land, scorching the dirt beneath her feet as she propelled herself forward with muscular hindquarters and unbendable, undying willpower.
As Fly finished his workout and eased up, Wish came storming by five seconds later, speed not ceasing until she had buried the gray stallion in a hurricane of dirt. Krystal laughed as she eased the bay mare up. Wish was only getting better and better while Fly was loaded with speed and focus. Their next races could very well be theirs if luck held with them on race day.
NEVER COUNT OUT A GOOD DROWNING.
Royal Assassin & Henna Turath.
Demonic Desires & Amber Black.
In The Spotlight & Valencia Andrews.
The second week of February brought more warmth and more challenges. Slowly, Amber was starting to calm down from a traumatic January and enjoy the challenge of Year Fourteen racing. A plan was hatching in the back of her mind that only she could act out. Her thoughtful green eyes rested on the black form of her most promising colt for the Turf Triple Sprinter Crown. Demonic Desires was easily one of the most impressive juveniles born out of his generation. He had pulled off win after win after win during his first season on the track and he wasn't stopping anytime soon. The bold black son of Speed Demon and Deadly Desires glimmered with brilliant talent and crackling power. He was easily becoming one of the fastest sprinters Amber had ever ridden. Amber loved Demon, loved him for his power, arrogance and majesty. He was a fantastic horse to ride, a real colt to handle. Her smile remained on her face even as she considered their first start to the season - third in the Unicorn Horn Turf Sprint. He had lost to Paranormal Hunter and Innocent Passion. Amber snorted. One race wouldn't hurt them, and there were many more. They were going to the Rush Stakes this week and then the Spring Cup after that. They would work to be ready for their competition.
Stepping out of the barn now was yet another horse that had been hard hit in the Unicorn Horn series. In The Spotlight had finished third in a highly competitive Unicorn Horn Turf. The race had been hard to handle, monstrous even, and third place was completely respectable and even good. Valencia smiled at that and considered their next steps along the Turf Triple Tiara trail. They were racing in the tough All Along Stakes this week and had another tough race in the Coronation Stakes the week after. These races would truly test their mettle and Valencia wanted to be nothing less than ready for a powerful Turf Tiara attempt. They deserved to do nothing less. Innie was a fantastic turf filly. Her chestnut coat glimmered beautifully in the morning sunlight and there was enough energy dancing in her eyes to run the universe. She stretched out, lean muscles rippling as she worked some kinks out of her muscles and looked around for eyes to feast on her form. Oh yes, Innie was an attention hog of the worst kind. But it was her fighting spirit that had endeared her so much to Valencia. She loved how Innie never gave up, never gave in and always gave it her best shot. It wasn't often that you found such heart within any horse.
The final member of their trio was Henna Turath. The speed demon looked to her boss warily, always alert for any depression from Amber these days. Royal Assassin strode forward like complete royalty, his eyes alight with arrogance as he viewed his competitors. The now grade two stallion had shown an appreciation for the turf that was being tested again in the Apple Stakes next week. He was a good stallion rounding into form for his five year old season, which could end up being the final season of his career. Henna smiled at the thought. Prince would make a fantastic stud. Her eyes were wary as she glanced at Amber, causing Valencia to loudly sigh and turn to Amber with a conspiratorial smile on her face. So, been busy doing your voodoo? Amber snorted, green eyes sharp. Who have you been talking to Valencia? Laura DeComte again? She had caught them chatting numerous times, and it was likely Valencia picked up the Witch Creek gossip through these exchanges. Valencia's light brown eyes darkened. Just hanging out with friends, is all Amber. That wouldn't be a problem would it? Henna's honey eyes brightened with alarm as Amber straightened in the saddle, her green eyes crackling with lightning as she stared right at Valencia and saw into her soul. I'm not attacking Witch Creek Valencia. No need to get all defensive. She paused. And I'm not really doing voodoo. Just...planning. Henna laughed, accustomed to her boss's never ending schemes. Well Amber, you'll be happy to know that I've been drilling Kylie in what she needs to do. She has a lot of potential as a jockey, you know. A lot of our staff do. We should consider training them up to it. Amber nodded thoughtfully, taking heed of the suggestion before jumping into the workout.
Major races are coming up guys. I want a six furlong gallop, two furlong blitz. Get them feeling as fast as possible. They're going to need the speed. Her riders nodded and they began, swinging right into the gallop. Prince snorted, bay muscles flexing as he powered into the lead with the lean and focused Innie tracking him from the outside. Demon settled comfortably behind both, Amber smirking as they jumped right into tactical mode. Demon had a real talent in tactics. He was brilliant both physically and mentally. She had been right to make this cross all those years ago. They ate clods of turf for now, but not for long, for soon they would go right in and take the killing shot. Six furlongs was not enough time for his workmates to run away from him. Demon was a Green Mile candidate alongside Innie. These two were apt at a mile, and Prince was only getting better with age. Even now Henna could feel the swirling power within his hindquarters. That was where Prince's talent came from - he had a lot of power in his legs that he was able to utilize in explosive bursts of speed. Each horse had their talents. Innie's, Valencia thought, was her burning heart and desire to be in front. In total, they had brilliant talent, explosive speed and fiery hearts - a deadly combination.
The pace was beginning to quicken as they raced down the backstretch. Innie pulled up more as they approached the final turn, getting into position. Demon continued behind, but the black colt was able to change positions in a second if he had to. He was a quick tactician and he knew the angles. Amber merely waited to cue the colt. All horses knew the time was coming. The final turn was coming up, and upon its arrival a volcano of speed was asked for from each horse. Each horse was quick on the uptake, but none quicker than Royal Assassin. The son of Royal Red Richard used the explosive power he had become famous for and exploded. Henna was nearly thrown back in the saddle as Prince fed on the two furlong blitz like a raging lion. His giant strides were quick and powerful as he darted forward, completely throwing his younger counterparts for a loop. But not for long. Demon switched into the space, darting between Innie and the rail and completely throwing her off yet again. He was in full pursuit and Innie was furiously watching as the attention faded from her.
Hell hath no fury like an Innie scorned whispered Valencia. The chestnut filly was throwing herself forward now, in furious pursuit. Her pace doubled, tripled it felt to Valencia. She urged the filly on who needed no urging, just the heart beating within her chest. Heart and determination shone in this filly's eyes, showed in her every movement. She was not going to be blindsided, not going to be denied. Prince and Demon were going at it up there and they were finally in the stretch. And she was coming on now, strides quick and amazingly powerful. She chopped the distance, flooded the outside and lunged forward to take it by a desperate nose at the wire. Valencia cheered loudly, her eyes alight with triumph as she punched the air. Amber smiled. Demon and Prince had been dead even and were glaring at each other with deadly promises in their eyes. Overall, the workout had produced three ready horses who wanted to drown the next horses they faced. And one could never count out a good drowning in a horse race.
Stepping out of the barn now was yet another horse that had been hard hit in the Unicorn Horn series. In The Spotlight had finished third in a highly competitive Unicorn Horn Turf. The race had been hard to handle, monstrous even, and third place was completely respectable and even good. Valencia smiled at that and considered their next steps along the Turf Triple Tiara trail. They were racing in the tough All Along Stakes this week and had another tough race in the Coronation Stakes the week after. These races would truly test their mettle and Valencia wanted to be nothing less than ready for a powerful Turf Tiara attempt. They deserved to do nothing less. Innie was a fantastic turf filly. Her chestnut coat glimmered beautifully in the morning sunlight and there was enough energy dancing in her eyes to run the universe. She stretched out, lean muscles rippling as she worked some kinks out of her muscles and looked around for eyes to feast on her form. Oh yes, Innie was an attention hog of the worst kind. But it was her fighting spirit that had endeared her so much to Valencia. She loved how Innie never gave up, never gave in and always gave it her best shot. It wasn't often that you found such heart within any horse.
The final member of their trio was Henna Turath. The speed demon looked to her boss warily, always alert for any depression from Amber these days. Royal Assassin strode forward like complete royalty, his eyes alight with arrogance as he viewed his competitors. The now grade two stallion had shown an appreciation for the turf that was being tested again in the Apple Stakes next week. He was a good stallion rounding into form for his five year old season, which could end up being the final season of his career. Henna smiled at the thought. Prince would make a fantastic stud. Her eyes were wary as she glanced at Amber, causing Valencia to loudly sigh and turn to Amber with a conspiratorial smile on her face. So, been busy doing your voodoo? Amber snorted, green eyes sharp. Who have you been talking to Valencia? Laura DeComte again? She had caught them chatting numerous times, and it was likely Valencia picked up the Witch Creek gossip through these exchanges. Valencia's light brown eyes darkened. Just hanging out with friends, is all Amber. That wouldn't be a problem would it? Henna's honey eyes brightened with alarm as Amber straightened in the saddle, her green eyes crackling with lightning as she stared right at Valencia and saw into her soul. I'm not attacking Witch Creek Valencia. No need to get all defensive. She paused. And I'm not really doing voodoo. Just...planning. Henna laughed, accustomed to her boss's never ending schemes. Well Amber, you'll be happy to know that I've been drilling Kylie in what she needs to do. She has a lot of potential as a jockey, you know. A lot of our staff do. We should consider training them up to it. Amber nodded thoughtfully, taking heed of the suggestion before jumping into the workout.
Major races are coming up guys. I want a six furlong gallop, two furlong blitz. Get them feeling as fast as possible. They're going to need the speed. Her riders nodded and they began, swinging right into the gallop. Prince snorted, bay muscles flexing as he powered into the lead with the lean and focused Innie tracking him from the outside. Demon settled comfortably behind both, Amber smirking as they jumped right into tactical mode. Demon had a real talent in tactics. He was brilliant both physically and mentally. She had been right to make this cross all those years ago. They ate clods of turf for now, but not for long, for soon they would go right in and take the killing shot. Six furlongs was not enough time for his workmates to run away from him. Demon was a Green Mile candidate alongside Innie. These two were apt at a mile, and Prince was only getting better with age. Even now Henna could feel the swirling power within his hindquarters. That was where Prince's talent came from - he had a lot of power in his legs that he was able to utilize in explosive bursts of speed. Each horse had their talents. Innie's, Valencia thought, was her burning heart and desire to be in front. In total, they had brilliant talent, explosive speed and fiery hearts - a deadly combination.
The pace was beginning to quicken as they raced down the backstretch. Innie pulled up more as they approached the final turn, getting into position. Demon continued behind, but the black colt was able to change positions in a second if he had to. He was a quick tactician and he knew the angles. Amber merely waited to cue the colt. All horses knew the time was coming. The final turn was coming up, and upon its arrival a volcano of speed was asked for from each horse. Each horse was quick on the uptake, but none quicker than Royal Assassin. The son of Royal Red Richard used the explosive power he had become famous for and exploded. Henna was nearly thrown back in the saddle as Prince fed on the two furlong blitz like a raging lion. His giant strides were quick and powerful as he darted forward, completely throwing his younger counterparts for a loop. But not for long. Demon switched into the space, darting between Innie and the rail and completely throwing her off yet again. He was in full pursuit and Innie was furiously watching as the attention faded from her.
Hell hath no fury like an Innie scorned whispered Valencia. The chestnut filly was throwing herself forward now, in furious pursuit. Her pace doubled, tripled it felt to Valencia. She urged the filly on who needed no urging, just the heart beating within her chest. Heart and determination shone in this filly's eyes, showed in her every movement. She was not going to be blindsided, not going to be denied. Prince and Demon were going at it up there and they were finally in the stretch. And she was coming on now, strides quick and amazingly powerful. She chopped the distance, flooded the outside and lunged forward to take it by a desperate nose at the wire. Valencia cheered loudly, her eyes alight with triumph as she punched the air. Amber smiled. Demon and Prince had been dead even and were glaring at each other with deadly promises in their eyes. Overall, the workout had produced three ready horses who wanted to drown the next horses they faced. And one could never count out a good drowning in a horse race.