not your everyday visit [Intrepid-closed]

[Ripley]

The Witch Creek family was coming off a very high mountain. Everyone had been waiting for a victory after a case of seconditis and thirditis. Mastermind had given it to them, a stunning, authoritative victory that left everyone wanting more. Ripley Marsh leaned against the stall, back to a sleepy Mastermind, facing a long-legged defiant filly. Enrapture, a light bay filly by the Triple Crown winner Furious Passion, stood with legs spread looking every inch the irritable mother-trucker she was. Ennie was notorious for her bad attitude. Malcolm was tired of her, tired of her mean-as-a-snake counterpart Lady Timeah as well. Ripley loved Ennie's fire, craved it with a passion.

It was something her current roster was lacking in severely. It doused the yearling crop like gasoline to fire. Ripley rubbed her hands together, green eyes bright as emeralds. It was time to get a little more serious with the next crop, stir up some buzz on Witch Creek's future. Ripley gave Mastermind one last stroke and stepped up to Enrapture. The powerful filly eyed her with all the testiness in the world. She respected Ripley... but only after a handful of arguments and wars. Ripley glanced around, stepped onto the mounting block and from there onto her Furious Passion filly.

Maggie looked up from where Brandon was shoeing Swing Dancer. The sleek gray filly's ears were pricked at the movement, absolutely the curious one that she was. Danny mouthed the bit enthusiastically, yanking her foot away from Brandon and prancing away just as he finished. Maggie crooned to the fast filly, admiring her willingness to work and her diva nature. Curtain call had arrived today. With a boost from the farrier, Maggie settled into the saddle of the Popcorn Blitz baby. She grinned at Ripley, turned to eye Justin and Laura as they emerged from the stalls of Uno Momento and Lady Timeah.

One was a fire-breathing dragon, the second a freight train. The filly, Ripley's latest acquistion, was the fire breathing dragon. Dark red bay, almost black, Lady Timeah prowled alongside Laura with flames in her eyes. She screamed and Enrapture returned with a furious rebuttal, scraping the ground with a flint-sharp hoof. Lady Timeah shook her head violently, nearly dislodging Laura's hand from her bridal.

Malcolm stepped from the shadows then, cussing the Limitless Time filly, and boosted Laura into the saddle. He sent an annoyed glare in Ripley's direction as the dark filly stepped away, carrying herself proudly. The filly ignored Ennie's threatening protests and sauntered away. Laura chuckled. Justin shook his head, exchanged a glance with Mal as Mal boosted him onto Uno Momento's back.

The horse was brilliantly built, strong, supple, glittering in good health. Uno was every inch the gloriously well-bred colt he'd been planned to be. He mouthed the bit nervously, but settled down when Justin nudged him into a walk. Justin patted the colt's thick neck, admiring his genuine gaze and his bullish body.

Ripley followed the trio, still as a statue in the saddle. Ennie bowed her neck, snorting fog through her nostrils. Her body was just warming up to the new environment. The light bay filly was searching for something. Ripley nearly shivered as the filly turned her head and let out a ringing whinny. The fillies ahead stopped, echoing the warning, while Uno Momento plowed on as solid as he always was.

Ripley smiled, loosened the reins. "Well if it isn't the Intrepid Racing crew..."

[Cavallo]

<sub>Michael's eyes had gleamed in fiendish delight when he'd walked in to see Sy greet him with the classic flattened ears and bared teeth. Others knew that Sy was no bluffer and many innocent people who had wandered too close to his stall door had met an unwelcome surprise - but Michael had done it. He'd been bitten, stomped on and he'd fought back with the cantankerous Night Stalker son and he'd won the colt's cool tolerance - it didn't mean he would ever greet him on friendly terms, but it did mean that Michael could saddle the colt and ride him. Michael let himself into the stall and the colt's body didn't budge, but his head raised making the man work to get a hold of his bridle. Unwilling to compromise his own space Michael stood his ground and pushed the colt back and snagged the bridle. Sy's eyes blazed fire, but his body shifted back slightly and this time he only mildly tossed his head from side to side, but by then Michael had the lead clipped and was waiting to lead the colt out to get tacked up.

Ethan Marino watched with an ever observant eye as Michael led Night Visions to the tack area as Adele walked out towards the door with a dancing grey filly. Ethan glanced at his clipboard and nodded in consent. Sophie's Pride had been added to today's little excursion. The filly needed to accept that there would be other horses in her space and what better place to do that than the track? Adele smiled as she led the filly into the morning light. The sun's rays were able to sneak through the branches of the paddock tree and oh how they danced and played like watery ripples on the filly's almost snow white coating. Adele stroked the filly's neck and she responded to the light soothing touch with quick side-stepping action. Adele shook her head and smiled, but had the filly well in hand. Ethan approached from behind and gave the woman a leg up onto the filly's back. Adele was quick to find her seat and with unmatched eagerness, Adele yelled back at the others to hurry up and began to lead the parade to the track.

Nick Landing rolled his eyes at the woman and her flashing filly. Tell me Ethan, what was it exactly you were thinking when you put those two together? He teased the man and the two laughed. Lyra was a high maintenance filly with high spirits and it was going to take Adele's calming touch to bring the filly along. Nick you know I don't have to explain myself to you. Trust me. He winked and watched as Nick moved up into the saddle of his own mount. World Dominion. Ethan watched with an appreciative eye as the young muscles of the chestnut colt began to dance. The sole chestnut of this crop, it couldn't be denied that Duke stood out, but if he was honest, the coat had little to do with that. The colt was pure energy, barely contained and always dangerously close to breaking free and wild. Nick followed the dance steps of the colt and smiled at the challenge Duke represented. The colt was possessive, high energy and had a competitive drive that could put others to shame and he was all his. He'd been itching all last season as he'd watched the colt grow alongside his dam Alluring Assault and now this season he was all his - per order of Ethan or course...

Duke would test his patience, but Nick had all the time in the world to bring along a horse like Duke and he couldn't wait to get the colt onto the track. Working the colt with his legs, he prodded the chestnut forward as he spared a glance back to see Michael and Sy emerging from the barn shadows. The last son of BHOF Night Stalker and the first of Y13 Mare to Watch, Admirable could only be regarded with respect, even if he acted like the Devil incarnate. He nodded and followed after Adele, expecting the other two to soon fall in.

Ethan dodged a near bite and whacked the colt on the nose in reprimand. After over a year, the colt knew better than to try and take on Ethan, but it never seemed to deter the black colt. He rolled his eyes as Michael took advantage of the colt's sulking moment to swing himself on-board and braced himself. He wasn't denied. The colt immediately attempted a buck in place, but Michael had learned the colt's tricks and rode through his attempt at unseating him with a smug grin and a gleam of appreciation for the colt. His first attempt at mounting the colt had ended up with him in the dust, as had everyone else who'd attempted a flawless mount - they had all eaten dirt, but having been assigned to the colt he didn't give up and knew that with time, the colt would learn that he wasn't going anywhere. But for now, it made for good entertainment. Ethan shook his head, exasperated with the colt and glad that he would soon be turned over to the racing barn staff - his calendar was counting down the days...

There was the clip of shodded hooves striking the pavement as a smartly dressed Ariel and a stunning looking Flying Fashion emerged from the barns in Michael and Sy's wake. You two need to hurry it up. Adele and Nick are already headed to the tracks. Ariel smiled a humoring smile, but nodded all the same as she readied to mount up on Captain. Ethan went over and gave her a leg up as she settled astride the prancing colt. He extended his neck briefly and lipped Sy's flank, which the colt rewarded with a brief flattening of his ears and then a swivel of recognition. Ethan had never understood it. Sy who was as tough as nails and as mean as a snake and Captain who was simply pure colt and demanding as a woman, got along. The two high energy colts got along and Ethan had quit trying to understand it and had long ago accepted it. The Flying Colours and Fashionista colt had always been easy on the eyes and now with his recent growth spurt he was leaning out, but tight with muscling that would grow in size and definition as he aged and worked. He was going to be a powerhouse kind of colt. Ariel smiled astride her mount and nudged the colt forward alongside the now moving Sy.

Adele's keen eyes scanned the tracks and rolled her eyes with an amused grin as she saw the Witch Creek crew. A bay filly that Ripley was sitting on let out a shrill challenging call and Lyra was quick with her own response as Nick and Duke came alongside them. Nick turned slightly in the saddle to see the other two riding through the gap. Nodding and pleased that they weren't too far behind schedule. Ethan sauntered a respectful distance behind the two colts. Captain he trusted, but he wouldn't put it past Sy to try and seek retribution for his early discipline with a well-aimed kick. Arrogant colt. he muttered, but it was all talk. Ethan loved his horses, even if ones like Sy tested his every limit.

Lyra and Duke fell into an easy walk on the track, with the filly consistently keeping her nose in front of the colts. Adele rolled her eyes...always having to be first... Ripley's mount had announced their presence and as they drew near Nick smiled at Ripley's greeting.

Nick stopped the colt a respectful distance and Adele as well. Lyra was unashamedly staring down the new bay filly, her eyes flicking about as she tried to get a read on the new equine. Adele settled deeper into the saddle, reminding the filly of her presence and to prevent Lyra from doing something rash. Her competitive nature was going to get her into big trouble one day and taking on an unknown horse on a first encounter wasn't something she was willing to experience today. The filly tossed her head almost dismissively of the bay, but Adele could still tell she was still attuned to the bay's every move. Duke would never truly be able to stand still to save his life - you just had to ask Liam and the farrier to know that. More than once, the on-site vet had cursed the chestnut colt during a check-up or vaccinations.

Nick was firmly in control though of the shifting and shuffling colt as he warmly greeted Ripley. Well, if it isn't Ripley Marsh and the Witch Creek crew. Fancy meeting you all here...and with some of your yearlings too...Great minds think alike I guess. His clear blue eyes were sharp, but warm as he engaged Ripley. The other two stopped soon behind them, with Sy's thorns flattened against his skull glaring at every living thing on the track. Michael saw all the people and sent a silent prayer to the Lord that he would put extra strength in his body to contain this hellion.

Ethan stopped walking along the ground and leaned on the rail as he watched the spectacle. Eight yearlings on the track. Eight and all of them were superior horse flesh. He calmly watched in admiration, glad, that for the moment his part was done and he would get to watch some of the results of his hard work. It was for sure though that this wasn't a normal everyday encounter and he silently wondered what all would happen.

By the way Ripley congrats to you and Mastermind on your DTC win. He winked and was genuinely glad for them. Nightshade was coming along nicely and he knew that it wouldn't be too long until her and Michael were claiming the wins. Mastermind's competition could only make them better. And... it looks like you have some surprises here too... His eyes had been immediately drawn to Lady Timeah. So you did buy Lady Timeah... He groaned. I'll say this Ripley Marsh. You keep me and my crew on our toes and that's for sure.</sub>

[Ripley]

Justin watched with sharp eyes at the interaction. Intrepid and Witch Creek had been rivals and partners over the last several racing seasons. Intrepid had given Witch Creek bloodlines that had revolutionized Ripley's breeding programs. Witch Creek had responded by crushing it on the track. In his opinion, Intrepid had set Ripley up as the ultimate trainer, but the woman could train anything. Anything and turn it into a rockstar of the ages. When Ripley was granted top of the line horses, success came quite naturally.

Uno watched through his steady eyes, identifying the threats. The big black bay colt with a detestable attitude immediately caught his and his rider's eye. Justin liked the look of the horse and from the look in Ripley's gaze, he knew she knew this colt quite well. When he glanced back at the horse, he could see the likes of Midnight Thriller, Roussong and Saintly Touch. This colt was a Night Stalker descendant. Justin patted Uno Momento's thick shoulder when the colt danced sideways. Uno wasn't a coward by any means, but he preferred to throw it down while running and not facing off with the devil himself.

Justin found it funny that Uno Momento, a half-sibling to Midnight Thriller, was the least flashy of the eight yearlings. His dam was a Hall of Fame horse, his sire a Dubai World Cup winner, his half-sister, the Belmont Stakes winner, Sweet Inferno, his other half-sister Eternal Phantom, a Horse of the Year herself, and a relation to the aforementioned Summer Dawn Treader Cup winner Mastermind. Justin didn't mind Uno falling by the wayside. He liked the gargantuan colt, saw potential in him and recognized the need for the colt to be nurtured.

Ripley cocked a brow at Nick Landing and his crew. She knew all of their yearlings by name. World Dominion, Night Visions, Flying Fashion, and Sophie's Pride. She saw a bit of Spotlight Pride in the light gray filly, the wild arrogance. It was a family trait from the sire. She saw the intensity and loathing of the world in Night Vision's dark gaze. She had flashbacks of Worldbreaker and The Wire Champion Alluring Assault, when she looked at World Dominion. Flying Fashion was the only horse she was not so keen on. She hadn't keep as much of an eye on Star Thoroughbreds' Flying Colours, made a note of it to do. The gray colt looked every inch the robust sprinter his sire had been.

Enrapture danced beneath Ripley, not as intent on Sophie's Pride as she was on Night Visions. The light bay filly had good taste and she recognized a snake when she saw one. Ennie was the leader of the band with Lady Timeah her reluctant deputy. Witch Creek's black bay minx, the Limitless Time daughter, stepped up to Ennie's side upon a nudge from Laura. Ripley smiled at Nick, spotted his admiration for the filly, "Even you couldn't have thought I'd let her fall into someone else's hands. We also took in Roussong, a Night Stalker grandson, he's a bit like your Night Visions, more of a blood-bay though.

No, Timeah was coming to me. We had Dirty Diana for a season and I've fallen in love with the female family. It was only natural to get her half-sister. And she's fallen beautifully into the Witch Creek pattern of things."

Laura murmured an agreement as Lady Timeah stood pointedly beside Enrapture. Her gaze was fiery, if not untamed. She was a minx and a damn good horse. Laura was eager to keep this mount for herself, especially knowing what a good mare Diana had turned into.

Swing Dancer let out a low nicker beneath Maggiletti Reynolds. She wasn't one for standing around. While she wasn't the most spectacularly bred horse, she was related to Mastermind and bore many of his same traits. The lean, elegant body coated in a silky metallic wrapper. She was a dream to ride, perfect in every sense of the word. Maggie loved the sassy horse, appreciated her brilliance and intelligence. She wasn't one for outright competition like Timeah and Ennie. She stood in the shadows, ready for more.

"Thanks on the congratulations. Mastermind really is exceeding expectations. It's making the combination of him and Arachne look genius for next breeding season, isn't it?" Ripley smiled, knowing full well that most of Nick's breedings for next season intermingled with Witch Creek's. She was finally getting to return the favor and was very happy to not be so reliant on Nick Landing's breeding stock.

"So what's the plan today? I was just going to have my group gallop a mile over the sand, toughen them up a bit. Want to partner them up and have them run alongside one of mine. Ennie would keep World Dominion on his toes. Swing Dancer, Flying Fashion? Timeah, Night Visions? Uno, Sophie's Pride? Any of them not work for you?"

[Cavallo]

<sub>Nick smiled at Ripley. One thing was for sure, Ripley was a woman who knew her stuff as he saw recognition flash in her eyes as they rested on his stock. He quickly recognized the Furious Passion filly she was on. There was that fire that reminded him of his own Calypso's Fury, He liked the filly's fire and it was easy to see which horse here was in charge. He secretly hoped that the filly didn't think to try and throw her weight around Night Visions. Nick caught a glance of Uno Momento and liked what he saw. He had an invested interest in the colt's bloodline and was expecting a foal out of the colt's HOF dam. Uno was not the flashiest, but he saw something great in the colt. He looked closely at Swing Dancer and was intrigued to see for his own eyes how the first crop for the freshman sire had turned out. The filly didn't have the presence of Enrapture or Lady Timeah, but she was nicely formed he saw the strong dam line of Starbucks lurking within the form of the grey filly. She was a nice solid filly and he was curious to see how Ripley brought her along.

Sy didn't miss a beat and he didn't give a care that multiple pairs of eyes were focused on him. He stood his ground, his legs like stakes in the ground claiming the ground as his own, his gaze daring anyone to defy him. Michael had a soft smile on his face. Sy had the effect of drawing the eye, but working with him was a hazard. Ariel preened in the saddle as Captain sidestepped away from the black bay colt. He didn't mind following the colt in the pasture, but he wasn't the kind of horse to hide in anyone's shadow. Ariel listened in rapt attention to the dialogue taking place between the two legendary trainers and riders. Between the two of them, there was millions of dollars of success and they were both legendary in their own rights. She waited with an eager ear to hear what exactly was going to go down today.

Adele watched Nick closely as he engaged with Ripley and then allowed her eyes to roam across the sand tracks as she took in some of the Witch Creek yearlings. They were all outstanding in their own unique ways and she knew that Mal had a hand in all of this. She had to admit that the man was good at his job. Her thoughts began to wander and suddenly were brought back to the present as she heard Ripley's voice mentioning their horses working in pairs. Her stomach did a little flip flop of excitement at meeting new competition.

Nick was engaged with Ripley and then cocked an eyebrow as he heard her ask what his plans were for their day here on the sand tracks. Today was intended to be a process of developing stamina and endurance within the yearling's developing legs and it seemed that Ripley and her crew were along the same lines. He gave her a winning smile as she proposed joint workouts. That is a brilliant idea Ms. Marsh. A mile gallop with your crew has just made this planned outing a bit more enjoyable. Duke hadn't stopped for a second to truly stand still and Nick was more than relieved to allow Ennie to take some of the energy out of his mount. Just lead the way and I'll yell at my crew to partner up.</sub>

[Ripley]

Ripley nodded, smiling at Nick's polite directive. He was something else. He had a way about him that was both offputting and drawing. Perfect match for Amber Black. Ripley hadn't seen that particular rival in sometime, in races, but not out in public. She wondered if the two of them were still an item. Shrugging off the socialite thoughts, Ripley motioned for her riders to pair up. She stayed alongside Nick and World Dominion. Ennie watched the proceedings behind her with keen eyes, but did not fight Ripley's hand. She had begun to accept that being partnered with Ripley meant leadership and top dog. The light bay turned to analyze her ruby counterpart, a serious intent filling her eyes. Perhaps this colt was the top dog of their group?

Maggie directed Swing Dancer to the sprinter counterpart of Intrepids. The gray hooked up with Flying Fashion as though she'd been planning on it all along. Her stoutly built body was smaller than Flying Fashion's. Where he was gangly, she looked more even and tougher. The filly snorted at the colt, playing with her ears and tossing her head. Her playful eyes took in his countenance, deemed him not very threatening. Maggie patted Danny appreciating her willingness to socialize. She was no Ennie and thank God, definitely not a Timeah. Maggie smiled at the woman aboard Flying Fashion's back, stuck out a hand, "Hi, Maggie Reynolds, at your service."

Laura DeComte had a much tougher time getting Lady Timeah to line up with Night Visions. The girl's eyes filled with irritation when Timeah reared up in objection, mouth agape. The filly had fire, a tough-love attitude. Because of that, Laura responded with tougher love. She threw her body down on the filly's red-bay neck, forced the wraith-like mare to the ground. Laura sent a smirk in Michael's direction, shook her head. "She's a little more difficult than I like. Just wait til we get them moving."

Uno Momento, the mannerly soldier he was, stepped right up to Sophie's Pride, big ears flicking nonchalantly. He wasn't bothered by a single thing, though he was curious. Justin stroked the colt's thick black mane, appreciating his solidness. He was a good horse, a strong one with a consistent nature. It would be beneficial to their partnership in the long run. Justin's dark eyes shifted from Uno's proudly arched neck to the woman aboard Sophie's Pride. Adele, Mal's girlfriend, if that's what she was, looked shy and a little lost. "Hey Adele. Haven't seen you around Witch Creek lately. Mal's here somewhere. He's in a bit of a mood. He had a going out with Reese this morning. I'm sure he'll tell you all about it after we gallop."

Ripley let Ennie step out into her purposeful stride, kept a loose rein as the bay filly moved. She was so in her element, so perfectly refined and confident. Ennie was the one to watch in the future. Ripley posted lightly in the saddle, keeping rhythm with the smooth striding filly. She wouldn't be Ennie's rider for long, plans had already been made and Ennie was going to be placed into the hands of another rider while Ripley watched from the sidelines. A soft sigh passed through Ripley's mouth as she looked at Nick Landing. "He looks awfully nice. Makes you miss his mommy a little doesn't it?"

Mal watched from the sidelines as the eight horses passed by, paired off so neatly. Each yearling had clean legs and beautiful form. He was proud of them, of himself. He'd accomplished a lot in very little time, particularly with Swing Dancer and Lady Timeah. His blue gaze flickered to the last pair, noted Justin riding alongside Adele. It'd been a while since he'd seen her. The whole system they had going right now really wasn't fair to either of them. Each of them were too busy for their own good. He had a question to ask her, pondered over her response as he had every damn day for the months since Lawless' birth. He shifted uneasily, placing his hands in his pockets, shook his head and turned back to watching the most fiery yearlings he'd ever had the horror and pleasure to deal with.

[Cavallo]

<sub>Nick watched as each yearling paired up and surveyed the transaction with a critical eye. Known around the parts for being easy-going and wearing a smile, Nick knew that on a personal level those who regarded him generally liked him, but sometimes that meant they underestimated him in business world and that was one of the biggest mistakes the competition could make. The success of IRS and WCS partnership and rivalry is that they didn't underestimate their counterpart, but rather pushed each other onward to greatness. He felt it in his bones, the time was coming and coming soon when IRS would be claiming serious wins, but it all started with every horse in situations like today. Here. On the track and working hard.

Nothing slipped his notice as he monitored his crew and once satisfied that all was well, was able to relax more calmly in the saddle as he let Duke step out and match Ennie's pace. It was a smooth leisurely pace, but the surface of sand would mean more of a workout for these developing yearlings. It was perfect reinforcement and strengthening of their legs, chests and hindquarters - all essential for a successful racehorse of course. Nick let himself admire Ennie. She was stamped without a doubt as the daughter or Furious Passion. She was clearly WCS yearling's ring-leader and there was a natural flowing range of motion in her strides. This was a filly that knew what she was about. Duke had no trouble matching the filly's pace and once settled alongside the foreign filly he quickly began to take stock of what he'd already labeled as competition. Then again anything breathing on something he deemed to posses as his, was in his mind competition and he had always looked at the track as his. He smiled as he saw the colt's brain working, observing, but not in the least intimidated by this dominatrix. He hedged closer to the filly, his natural instinct seemed to be that of a bully's and Nick was swift to slightly correct and maintain proper space. He would not be paying for Ripley's prized filly to have an emergency vet visit. The colt's stride was long and easy and it was apparent he was glad to be moving. His ears flicked horizontally, his eyes and ears trained on the filly at hand, watching and studying for a chink in her armor. Duke was not the kind to take things lying down and he did not share well. Not space. Not food. Definitely not his toys. And not the track. He'd schooled Night Visions once for touching his things and he had no issues handing out the same lesson. He was no ones second. Nick rode the colt with a light touch after the auto correct, but he could sense the colt's growing expectation and eagerness. He listened as he heard Ripley begin to talk and smiled at her words. Yeah, you can definitely see her in him and boy do I miss racing her. Haven't had a horse yet that's had her kind of drive, but he's looking like he might give his dam a run for her money. He's got his sire's coat, his dam's build and boldness and a personality that is all his own. He threw us for a loop as he began to mature. He's a possessive son-of-a-gun. But you know me. I like 'em feisty. He chuckled, but continued on. Enrapture here though without a doubt is a foal of Furious Passion. She turning out to be everything you were hoping for? Duke hedged the pace, thrusting his nose in front as far as Nick would allow, daring the filly to question him. His mouth was playing with the bit and his body thrumming to be ready to blitz at a moment's notice and if not for the man on his back, he'd be long gone.

Ariel smiled at Maggie's hand and quickly placed hers within it. Nice to meet ya Maggie. I'm Ariel Winslow here to simply brighten your day. Her sarcastic teasing was light, but her heart was genuine. She was quite taken with the woman and her filly. Well. Don't we just make a pair. Two flashy greys and two of the best women jockeys on the circuit...I always say that favor isn't fair. She gave her new partner a conspiratorial wink and shifted her leg slightly on Captain as he chaffed slightly in his own random rebellion. He was good at those, but she was better and she had Captain moving at what could only be described as beautiful fluidity. Ariel observed their filly counterpart and she smiled at her friendliness. She is adorable. Ariel stated it as a fact and she knew Maggie would agree. Captain, however, was the cliche colt with an overabundance of energy and mood swings. Today, fortunately for her, was a good day for the colt and he inhaled and huffed slightly at the filly. He wasn't in the mood at this moment to be disagreeable, but that didn't mean much in another few. He was a lot of horse with a competitive edge and that was just the way she liked them. Tell me a little bit about your filly. Nick is a know-it-all, but I'm too busy riding to know half the stuff Landing does.

Of course the other grump would be paired with the other grump. It just made sense. Michael watched as Lady Timeah and Laura approached. They got a first rate show, but Sy was not impressed. If anything the colt was annoyed at the filly's proximity and he let it be known with flattened ears and bared teeth. He didn't know who this filly was and he didn't care, but he did like his own space and wanted her to be well aware of that. Michael pushed the colt briefly out towards the middle to prevent the colt from savaging the filly and quickly administered his own discipline to come back into row alongside their partner. The colt didn't like anyone, but he respected Michael and that was only because he'd been quick to learn to think a few steps ahead of the brute. He gave Laura a small half-smile at her words. It would save both of their arms and legs when they did finally start really moving. As it was now, Sy had no intentions of letting up on the bit, everything within the colt screaming to be free of these obstacles in his way. I bet Lady Timeah here is a thing of beauty in motion. Nick and he had talked at length one time about the filly when ARS was closing, but they simply just couldn't take in another yearling. He was pleased though to see the filly in WCS' hands. It meant Sy here would actually have decent competition. If Sy could have his way, he'd be ripping through people and horses alike to the finish. He laughed slightly, but he knew it was true. There were only a few things Sy liked. Food. Aggravating Duke. And of course demolishing competition and right now... there was one striding right alongside him and his intolerance and intrigue were stirred. Yup. It was definitely going to be something when they started really moving...

Adele quirked an eyebrow at Justin's comment, but smiled slightly. Things were never dull at Witch Creek and she should know that. He made mention of Malcolm being present and something within her fluttered slightly. She couldn't place the feeling. It had been hard the past few months, what with getting Intrepid back up to snuff after their month hiatus. Face to face encounters were a rare treat, but was this excitement or apprehension. She sluffed off the thought. Mal was as black and white as they came and if there was a problem he would tell her. As would she, but now was not the time to ponder about these things. She hadn't come here to see Mal. She had a job to do and she needed to get back into that frame of mind. Lyra took full advantage of her brief lapse to playfully bump shoulders with the colt. She was all fire today and she shook her head in an attempt for control, but one small pull on the reins from her and the filly begrudgingly settled into her stride. Uno Momento was massively bulkier than her, but as size went it was easy to see that these two would come out about even height wise, but Uno would have that muscled edge. He was a handsome colt and there was no mistaking it, but as she observed the colt she noted that he wasn't the typical Witch Creek dragon horse. She gave Justin an apologetic glance for Lyra's bump. The filly hadn't meant harm, but was always finding ways to drag her partners into competitive games. This bump, was her invitation to the colt to play along. She was a sturdy framed filly, but with her long legs she set an easy pace, ears flicking in constant perusal of her intriguing new competitor. She rubbed the filly's neck affectionately. You had to admire her spunk. Mal and Maggie in a row...hmm I wonder what that had been like. She teased lightly. In her short time at WCS, she'd come to know that where Maggie was concerned things were never done quietly and wherever Mal was concerned there was a stubborn unyielding quality about him. She laughed at the mental picture. That must of been fire fighting fire! She shook her head and focused again on Justin and his mount. He's not the typical Witch Creek horse. I love him already. She teased, but her eyes conveyed admiration for the solid looking colt.

Ethan noticed that he wasn't the only one admiring the horse flesh and his sharp blue eyes took in the fellow man. What he saw was a broad shouldered man, tall with sharp blue eyes and there was an unflinching quality about the man. Ethan moved. He had a good hunch this was a man he'd been wanting to meet for a while. He walked over at an easy pace and stopped alongside the sidelines to the man's left. Fine sets of horseflesh don't you think? He held out a hand in greeting, Name's Ethan Marino, the Weanling and Yearling trainer for Intrepid and I might gander to guess that you might be the rumored Malcom Floyd? He had a half-smile on his face. Well. There was always talk going on in the barns and one had to always be aware of the competition and have ammo to tease certain individuals with - though often he left that job off to Jeff Saunders.</sub>

[Ripley]

Ripley Marsh knew many things when it came to horses. Never let a horse push you around. Never let another horse push your horse around. And never get in the way when your horse was eager to deal out punishment. Enrapture was the queen among the latest yearling set, her dark eyes were fiery and grew more so when World Dominion moved in closer, becoming an ominous threat. Ennie didn't take ominous threats lightly. She regarded them as full blown ones. The light bay filly pinned her ears to her head, launched herself at World Dominion sideways with her mouth agape. Ripley snapped the reins an inch before Ennie was able to connect. The minx squealed furiously, tossing her head with all the wrath of a woman scorned. Her black marked legs flashed beneath her lean body, as her body filled with contempt. The chestnut horse wanted to have a go of it. She'd stick it right back to him if he kept prodding. And even Ripley wouldn't be able to control her when she wanted to attack.

Ripley wriggled the reins, listening to Nick Landing talk. She felt that, as with horses, you learned more from their human counterparts when you kept your mouth firmly shut. She smiled at him as he described the colt's personality, laughed when she finally saw the possessive edge to the colt. He was handsome and a very different mixture than Worldbreaker and Alluring Assault had been. "We have our own Worldbreaker filly currently. Shatter is a bit more like Screaming Mimi though. Thank God. I love passion and heat and that little chestnut packs a punch." Ripley nudged Enrapture into a free-flowing canter, feeling the smooth power overwhelm briefly. Ennie was a different sort of horse, a very, very different one. She'd lived up to expectations so far, and beyond. "Don't tell Malcolm that though. He's still thinking one of these days, he'll get a good-natured baby." The woman snickered, glanced around for her yearling trainer, saw him speaking with what could only be Intrepid's man. The rest of the track was devoid of life. "And yes, I have to say Ennie is beyond expectations. I had higher hopes after seeing Calypso's Fury on the track. She's a marvel that one. Perhaps one day they will meet on the track. You may not agree at the moment, but Ennie will be capable of giving her a run for her money." She played with the leather reins some more, debating how she was going to tell Nick Landing something she hadn't told Mal or Brooks or any of her female jockeys. Caught in indecision, Ripley just shrugged the thoughts off and moved on. Perhaps this moment wasn't the best time.

Maggie laughed at Ariel's playfulness. Definitely felt at home with the woman. She was a lighter version of Reese. Reese had a doom and gloom edge to her sometimes, but not this character. Maggie thought she was a little more aggressive than she was letting on, hiding behind the coy comment on Swing Dancer. Danny was indeed adorable, but she was more than that. She was a brat with a need for speed. She was hyping herself up even as Maggie reached for control. Her legs pistoned beneath her steely body, breaking the sand with precision and aggression. She was not just adorable, Maggie thought. The blond patted the filly's neck, "You sound like me in regards to Ripley. I swear that woman knows more than she should. It's like she has cameras everywhere and knows exactly how to interpret every situation." Maggie nodded to her filly, "Danny's a brat, but she's got more gate-speed than any horse I've ridden. I'm used to closers like Paranormal Hunter, but this one is more like Cross My Heart. She's a little bull-dog, comes from Popcorn Blitz and through him Speed Demon." Maggie smiled, relishing in the sire line. Speed Demon was becoming more relevant this season through the success of his offspring. "Makes her a relation of Mastermind and Demonic Desires. She's got a bit of your Cosmic Warfare lines through Starbucks. Her half-brother Tears No More, is a pretty good sprinter. She's a good little horse this one. Someday she'll be making headlines." Maggie paused, turned briefly to take in Flying Fashion. She had to return the favor, knowing any information would be great to turn into Ripley. Flying Colours was not exactly a strong suit. "What about your guy?"

Laura didn't mind Michael Landing. She would have tried to talk more if she wasn't sitting on the cobra filly. It was such a difference between Lady Timeah and her half-sister Dirty Diana. There was more aggression within Timeah. She was rougher around the edges, definitely a whole lot meaner. Her talent spoke for itself in volumes. When the pairs ahead of them kicked into a gallop, Timeah did as well, surging forward as though desperate to get into gear. The dark horse rolled over the sand as though she'd been born to it, mane and tail waving out behind her like a pirate's flag. She was an in-your-face presence. Her mean eye swung over Night Visions, taunting him to keep up. Laura kept her hands still at the filly's withers, knowing that Timeah was not as responsive as Swing Dancer, nor as willing to oblige commands as Enrapture. Laura nodded to Michael, "If you don't mind, want to keep going past the leads. We pretty much know where to stop, but to keep her down to this pedestrian pace is going to make her crazy." Laura paused, a sly light filling her eyes, "You two can always bow out if you can't keep up."

Justin didn't have to know Laura was teasing the Landing brother in order to read her movements. Laura was one of the trickiest riders on the place. Even Justin felt as though she were more of a natural jockey than himself. She seemed to have an internal clock built in, letting it run down to the specific moment that would leave her horse with the win even though they could be on their last running legs. Justin was getting there, but it hurt a little to see Laura doing so well and himself floundering. But he could not flounder on Uno Momento. Uno was destined to be good, maybe better than good. He reminded Justin a little of In Front, quiet until he reached a certain age and then ready to demolish those in his path. The big bay cantered over the course with relative ease, thunderous hoof beats muffled by the sand. He was more Barely A Moment than El Sol del Mar, but the horse could flat out run.

"Mal and Reese," Justin corrected in a louder voice. He could barely hear above the roar of the wind. "They had a row over our Touch Up baby. She's a full sister to Winning Touch." Justin closed his mouth quickly, out of the silly fear of not swallowing bugs. He turned his head sideways to speak, "It was quite a loud and inspiring grudge match if you ask me." Uno bowed his neck, big blaze bared when his lengthy fore-lock pitched back between his ears. He strode over the sand, purposefully and strongly. Justin was impressed, but he kept a good poker face. "Oh Uno is my favorite out of the bunch. He's actually a good horse compared to the rest. And by good, I mean good-natured. Talent wise he is a bit immature, but that will catch up to him in time. The others are just more precocious. By the time he's running, maybe some of Sunny will kick in. God knows, her other babies are beyond gifted. He's my Adonis."

Justin looked over Sophie's Pride, recognized the build and the wild-beauty. "Deathflash's Pride throws some pretty neat foals, doesn't he? Reese is totally enamored by Spotlight Pride. To watch him run is like something else. He's bloody quick."

Mal heard the shuffle of boots before the voice. He didn't turn his cobalt blue eyes off of the track to acknowledge the human. He was focused on his horses and their riders. "Definitely fine. The finest I've laid my hands on. And this isn't even all of them." He had two horses waiting back at home, both fillies, who could potentially be the best out of the crop. He held his tongue though, finally turned to look at the stranger who was not so much a stranger. "Depends on what the rumor is. Bad, I'm not Malcolm. Good, well, I guess that's me."

He recognized the man from Adele's stories of Intrepid. The thought of Adele brought a frown to his face. He had a question to ask her later and he didn't need this man bringing him smart reminders of the pending event. The big man leaned against the silver rail, shifting his attention to his yearling crop. "How many yearlings do you have waiting in the wings back home? The ones here are pretty fine." Mal was making rapid comparisons between Witch Creeks and Intrepids. Witch Creeks had more of a wild light, less care had been taken to grooming them just perfectly for the day. Mal liked his yearlings out in the pasture rather than in a stall. His girls were more wild than Intrepid's one. Even Danny was mighty full of herself this morning.

Mal liked the look of Uno. The colt was so gigantic and he made his gray counterpart look small in comparison. He was getting over the sand good, showing an inheritance of the sand affinity that both his sire and dam had possessed as racers. Lady Timeah was a domineering force, daring Night Visions to break rank. Whether that was Laura's decision or hers, Mal was less sure. More likely, it was a decision of both. And Ennie just simply looked gorgeous, glittering like copper in the morning light. She matched World Dominion stride for stride, black eyes full of contempt and dominance. He loved his babies, wouldn't have traded them for the world. Mal wondered, if it was the same for the man beside him.

[Cavallo]

<sub>Duke's thorns flattened against his skull and upon Ennie's retaliation, he was more than willing to return the favor and had opened his mouth all the same and that's when Nick pressed the colt forward into the canter. The colt flicked his fiery tail like a whip in contempt, whisking Nick's arm and directed solely for the filly that he found to be in need to scolding. They couldn't all be the top dog here, but these two yearlings couldn't seem to fathom that they might have met their match in each other. The canter wasn't enough for the colt, when all he wanted was to shake the nuisance filly off and her follow his tail. For all of his aggravation at the moment, World Dominion wasn't a mindless colt. He'd tested the filly's mettle and hadn't found her wanting in the competition arena. He knew this was a counterpart that could give it and take it and his mind wheels were spinning. He arched his crimson hued neck briefly and then relaxed into a quiet foreboding. He would not be bowing down to this filly and even in his relaxed state of motion he thrummed with self-assurance. Nick shook his head at the colt and felt his mental shift to that of the cunning captain, plotting his next course of action. Calypso's Fury has proven to be the spitfire we were hoping to be and I'm sure her and Angelina would love to take on Enrapture here whenever you'd like. Cali thrives on a challenge. It was true. As one of the first foals out of TC winner Furious Passion, Nick had bred the filly in hopes of getting a hard, hitting, no-nonsense kind of horse and so far Cali hadn't disappointed. He was pleased with the filly's future. Nick was intrigued and pleased to hear that Mims had thrown another foal for WCS. The mare had always attracted his special attentions and she hadn't discredited his confidence in her when she'd raced in the WCS silks. He was rooting for her breeding career as well. Nick looked over briefly at Ripley, usually all prickly pride and confidence, but he saw something like indecision flash across her face. He cocked an eyebrow, but made no mention of it. Ripley was a private person when it came to her personal life and if she wanted to tell him something, well then, that was her decision. He took a peek back to see Lady T breaking the ranks and smirked as Michael and Sy moved in sync. The dark colt didn't miss a beat. He had the filly's number and there was no intimidation, only a cold ruthless desire to do what he did best - to demolish things. We have two yearlings trying to pull rank here Ripley. He arched an amused eye back at the approaching yearlings. I'm surprised they haven't taken a pound of flesh yet out of one another. Duke's ears flicked back hearing the thundering approach of more rivals and he scented his arch nemesis on the wind. Duke shook his head and his canter began to hedge towards a gallop, but his stride never broke of faltered. Nick rated the colt slightly to maintain pace alongside Marsh and Enrapture. I don't think that neither your filly nor my colt will stand for this kind of insubordination... don't you think? He eyes danced with challenge, fingers light on the reins and ready to allow the colt a chance to really run. But that of course was only if Marsh was game...

Ariel smiled at Maggie. She definitely liked this girl and handled her light sarcasm well. That was of course because the cat's claws were sheathed. For Maggie's return of banter she sensed that this was a woman that could have fun, but she sensed she wasn't someone to underestimate and she wasn't planning on it. She could see a faint hint of the tenacity that Maggie had mentioned. She was a cute little bugger, but Ariel was beginning to think that this filly might be more like a burr in an actual race, sticking to the lead and refusing to let go of it. Tenacity was trait that she could admire. She smiled at Maggie's polite request about Captain and she couldn't help but widen her smile. You see. I like to think that Flying Fashion here, or Captain is probs one of Nick's best secrets. Sooo well kept that I'm not sure that even Nick himself know what he has here. She smiled at her own joke, but she meant every word of it. He's a bright colt and to think otherwise will result with you on your butt. He's a colt through and through and demanding as all get-out and while it's a bear to deal with that kind of attitude in the barn, I know it'll help him kill on the tracks. She paused briefly, keeping the colt in check as he flexed his muscle slightly hedging for a faster pace and as the crew shifted into a canter, she reward the colt for his obedience and let him ease into the faster pace. The colt thought he'd won, but they knew better. She winked at Maggie. See. Demanding. haha Nah, but his sire was a show-off, but he's thrown some solid foals like G1 Seraphim a ways back. That's what turned Nick onto the stud - Flying Colours and out of our own Fashionista. His siblings are showing that there is something to his pedigree, but I think that in the end it's gonna be all Captain that will make a name for himself. She knew that not many people had tracked with the HOF Flying Colours, but Ariel could see quality when it was before her and Captain had all the raw materials. He's gonna take some work, but I think he'll surprise us all. Ariel's eyes flashed dangerously as Michael and Night Visions soared past them, but he didn't act like they were there - he was all focused on their counterpart which was steamrolling past Maggie on the other side. Now. Why do they get to have all the fun?

Michael grinned. Why Laura is that your idea of begging? You can do better than that. He released the dark colt and there was no lingering mercy or consideration within the colt, he was simply off. Michael had only to flick the reins and this "pedestrian pace" was a swift thing of the past. There was more at stake here than this one dark filly. Up ahead, a crimsom flag waved in the air like a homing beacon and all Sy saw was red. Red, meaning his arch rival Duke of course and nothing would have given the colt more satisfaction than to outstrip the colt and the rest of the horses on the track. Michael knew he was playing with fire, but what was excitement without a little bit of danger. He had full control of the colt, but both man and beast were thrilled with the power now that was thrumming through them. It didn't take much to pass Ariel and her partner, now the only obstacles left to their little match was two head trainers...but surely they wouldn't interfere with their little game. Right? He smiled and prepared for the worst, while Sy did what he did best, run.

Adele nodded at the correction. Of course it would have been Reese. She smiled and listened intently to Justin as he talked about Uno Momento. It was obvious he was enamored with his own mount, just as she was endeared to Sophie's Pride. Her eyes came to life as he mentioned Spotlight Pride. She'd been watching the colt's career with calculated interest and she had liked what she'd seen and it had prepared her to work with Lyra, though the filly in and of herself was her own unique experience. Lookers with wicked Speed. That's our Deathflash. She purred with pride and she had every reason too. Lyra was everything she'd need in a mount, she just needed to tame some of the filly's wildness to a manageable level and that would come with time and experience. Sophie here is fast for one reason - she's a selfish diva. She laughed, but there was a hint of truth, but it was all blanketed with admiration for the filly. I'll tell you this Justin. One day she saw me working Bellefire before her and when her time slot came, she legitimately threw one of the biggest hissy fits I've ever seen and all because she knew she wasn't my first priority that day. Little brat. She affectionately rubbed the filly's neck as they moved into a gallop. Lyra's steps became more animated, but she relished the speed and the tension that sandy surface pulled at in her muscles. It was quickly turned into a game for the filly as she cruised about on the surface of sand. Adele's touch was light and directional and like one they moved, but things ahead were looking more like rough waters than smooth sailing. Well. That's typical for Michael. She watched as the duo broke ranks and galloped for the finish. Not much of a surprise there now is there? she smirked, but her own fingers played with an eager expectation on the reins.

Ethan smile slightly and nodded as he watched the track. Well then. Nice to meet you officially Malcolm. Each horse out there was unique, but each one was also uniform in their quality and he agreed with Malcolm. This was one of the finest crops yet he'd had the pleasure of working with. He was glad they hadn't brought the whole crew out, just the thought had him almost suck in a breath of stress. Night Visions and World Dominion were enough together. King and Dana to the mix. He continued to watch the field as he heard Mal's voice rise in query. Thank you. We have four left back at the barn, but one will shortly be put up for sale. He didn't mind sharing the information, they would need to find a buyer soon anyways for the colt and the more people who knew, they smoother his process would be. Nick took in the True Enough x Luscia colt due to a reclaim and I've been working with him in prep for a sale. He watched as Michael and Sy took off and he lowered his head briefly with a shake of his head. It wasn't unexpected coming from those two. Even for all the drama that happened with large personality horses he loved each and every single one of them.

World Dominion was a picture of fierce refined savagery. His crimson pelt rippled with fluid motion and he was pleased to see that he wasn't all talk. He had always been one of the ones to never cow-tie to anyone and he was pleased that others could now see it too. Duke would prove to be able to hold his own and in the racing world that was a must. He watched Sy in gallop and marveled at the massive form that was somehow able to move with lightning speed and accuracy. He always knew what he wanted. Captain was warming up and begining to come alive under Ariel. The woman had a way with bringing out the zest in people and animals alike and he liked the competitive glint he saw rising as Sy took off. Sophie's Pride was small in size to the massive hulk beside her, but she didn't seem to even notice it. To her the world was her footstool and it showed as she galloped with a wild air and a competitive glint, yes. He had to agree with Malcolm these were some of the best and he had some even better ones sitting at home. How about you? Is this all for Witch Creek or are there more waiting at home? What you have here is already impressive.</sub>

[Ripley]

Malcolm smiled at Ethan's gentle prodding. He'd wanted to know about Intrepid's remaining youngsters, just as Ethan wanted to know about his. Mutual admiration for the others' horses. This is why Mal had come to love the Intrepid and Witch Creek partnership. Mal held a collective breath as Lady Timeah moved like a flash with Night Visions. The dark bay filly was a hurricane compared to the others. She was swift and devilishly beautiful. Not to mention she could run the nose off the likes of these. Mal was impressed, but her talent didn't make him like her any more. She was still a snake.

"Yeah, we have two. Artemis' Glory, a filly out of Finale Slew, Screaming Mimi's grand-dam, and Awestruck." Mal's eyes darkened with something like contempt and puzzlement. Awestruck was a mystery. "The first is dear to my heart. The second, well, she's way out in space. But mark my words, Ethan, that is the name you want going forward. She's a full-sister to Winning Touch, but definitely more like The Devil than like Winning Touch or Indian Darling." Seriousness filled the man's words, making them important and bold. The bay filly was semi-wild, reminding him of Cross, but definitely of The Devil's Touch. He still hadn't cracked her code, the reason that she wasn't here with the others.

"Good luck with placing the True Enough colt. Market got more full after our recent sales. Solid blood-lines. If we hadn't sold a yearling to Stride of Perfection recently, I'd have told you to send that one there." Mal straightened up, blue eyes glued to the track. The atmosphere had grown inordinately darker, more vicious. He braced his hands on the rails.

Ripley Marsh was not one for backing down from a challenge. But she knew when hope was lost and was ready to step back for the moment. Her green eyes and her acute ears had assessed the situation quickly. Lady Timeah and Night Visions were gunning for them, a peek under her arm basically confirmed it. The dark filly was a vision to watch, ears pinned to her head as her great stride easily kept pace with the Night Stalker colt. Ripley cocked a brow at Landing, pulled on the right rein, basically giving Landing the go ahead to run on with his red charger. Ennie briefly objected, but once Timeah and Night Visions swept by she relented. Without breaking stride, the light bay filly backed out of the way, cantering along as horses parted around her.

Laura's teeth gritted as Timeah galloped strongly alongside Night Visions and now, the Alluring Assault colt. Two words passed through Laura's brain, Challenge Accepted. She kept her hands light on the yearling filly's mouth, knowing that victory came from a partnership not a battle of wills. Timeah settled in between the colts, making a stand for the central position. Laura knew that being a buffer between stable-mates was a bit discouraging, but Timeah trucked on, keeping her solid frame level with the others.

Maggie's brain clicked off from Ariel rather rudely. She'd had to steady Swing Dancer when the Night Visions colt and Lady Timeah bolted by. Her stout filly wavered under the onslaught of speed, needing a little bit of a confidence boost from her rider. Maggie nodded to Ariel, "Well lets not allow them to have all of the fun." Glancing under her arm, Maggie found that Uno and Sophie's Pride were not making any game-changing decisions. With the flick of her wrist, Maggie sent Danny soaring, stout legs turning into cannons. The Popcorn Blitz filly left a dust cloud in her wake as she soared by a steadied Enrapture and settled definitively for fourth behind World Dominion, Timeah and Night Visions. Usually a front runner, Maggie could not help but be impressed with Danny's eagerness to settle. Perhaps she knew that no race could be won on such a wild pace.

Uno Momento thrummed to life under Justin, his great head lifting at the sudden gap in distance between himself and the top six horses. Justin did not need to reprimand his colt for taking off. Uno stayed steady and relaxed, muscles uncoiling beneath his bay hide. He would listen for his cue to run. For the moment, he was content to run beside Sophie's Pride. Justin was a little curious to see Enrapture fall back so quickly from the leaders, but his tactical mind quickly recognized Ripley's hand in the motion. The light bay filly looked so cool and collected that Justin knew Ripley was just letting her gallop along until the homestretch once again. Justin sent a whirling glance in Adele's direction, pondering what the blonde woman would do. Would she send her gray filly after the others or linger at the back, recognizing as Ripley had, the necessity of staying out of the onslaught of speed.

Uno made up Justin's mind for him. The Barely A Moment colt picked up the pace, bounding magnificently over the sand to engage with Enrapture. The lighter-framed filly pinned her ears, but made no response to his presence. She'd recognized him. Her cunning shark-eyes were solely on the leaders and Ripley was poised in the saddle as though she had a ton of horse. Nick had wanted her to challenge World Dominion, Timeah and Night Visions right off the bat in a gallop. Hell, no. Ripley's game was going to be saving her filly for the staggerfest at the end. She would not push her closer to keep up with a bunch of speed horses and stalkers. No way. A light pat on Ennie's shoulder reflected Ripley's praise. Her dirt filly was the queen of this crop. She would prove it at the end.

Malcolm laughed at the abrupt change of positions, noted Ripley's brilliance. He wondered how the Intrepid riders would react to the sudden change. He knew Justin would move with Ripley. He knew Timeah and Danny would never wave the flag of surrender. He didn't know what the X factor was in this Intrepid crop, but he sure as hell would stay tuned to find out.

[Cavallo]

<sub>Nick watched with an alerted flag that Ripley and Ennie had held back. It was a mad speed, but it was like a fresh song to be sung to the eager chestnut. Right on the rail they ran and even Nick had been impressed with the colt's get-up and go as they settled into a three way run. Nigh Visions' eyes gleamed in fiendish delight as he saw Duke join the action and the colt rated himself allowing Timeah and Duke to have the front. Michael schooled his features but in his head, the colt was friggin diabolical. He felt the constrained power and knew for a fact that the colt hadn't lost drive or propulsion. He'd baited his quarry and they had bit. Duke was too prideful to allow Timeah to pass and that was exactly what the colt had planned on. They trailed slightly on the outside lagging back a half length and then a whole and then some more as Duke and Timeah charged. Let the chestnut wear out the filly and then this stalking game would become something legendary.

Nick watched as Michael and Sy dropped back, but he knew there was no going back now. They'd been baited like Ripley had foreseen and now it was up to them to see this through with Swing Dancer behind their flanks effectively pushing them forward. Nick guessed it was about time to see how enduring this colt's stamina really was. The pace was grueling but Duke ground out on the bit, his stride naturally long and sweeping was firing fluidly like a well-oiled machine and the thrill of the run was bright in his eyes.

Michael watched as Swing Dancer settled behind World Dominion and knew that Nick had no choice but to take point with Lady T. He smiled and monitored the gap. It never lengthened and didn't shorten, his black banner calling for the filly he knew lurking in his wake to join his game. Both horse and man knew there were other fish that needed to be fried and they had the time to wait for the fish to bite.

Ariel watched as Swing Dancer and Maggie flew into the fray and she shook her head, there was no chance in hell she was joining that match and almost laughed allowed at Michael's cunning move. Captain didn't think anything was funny and strained at the bit, especially when he heard the thunder of approaching hooves.

Adele nodded to Justin with a small nod as she watched the crew disperse into a gallop to the finish. The front end was a mad pace, her eyes quickly assessed the situation and decided on the best course of action. To chase down the front would only tap them out, but somewhere in the middle sounded nice. She watched as Swing Dancer moved and Flying Fashion and Ariel remained. A devious light filled her eyes as she fed the filly some of her head. The grey colt was eager. It was obvious even from here that his mind was set on asking for more. Adele wasn't so concerned about finishing ahead of everyone, just one in particular and she made her move. She winked at Justin with a devilish smile and shouted over the wind. I need to give Ariel here some friendly fire. I have a few scores to settle. She watched as Uno bounded ahead to where Enrapture lingered and they remained. Lyra sensed a challenge, her eyes already locked onto the frustrated colt as he watched the pack fly. It almost didn't seem fair, Adele thought. They didn't need to chase down the leaders right now, she knew her sprinter filly didn't stand a chance against the routers, but Captain and Ariel was another story. Plus it didn't help that she had no affinity for the Canadian woman. In-house rivalry. What could she say. Lyra moved forward with cat-like power, her prey in her sights as Adele had directed. She knew the colt and liked the frustrated air. It was something to feed upon and manipulate. Ariel dared a glance to see Adele and Sophie's Pride hot on their right flank and it pushed the colt faster. Adele smiled and winked at the woman's turn and Ariel shot her the bird briefly before trying to rate the colt, but the damage was done and Flying Fashion was doing just that - flying in fine fashion as they all flew through the final lengths of the backstretch towards the final turn. Lyra was fresh and her victim was off sorts and that made Adele a very happy woman.

Ethan watched with rapid intrigue. He cursed the black bay colt and saw him for the demon he was, but he had to give props to Michael and Night Visions. It was apparent that World Domionion didn't seemed concerned about his stablemate, but Ethan saw the novice mistake and noticed that Nick did too, but now that they were committed he had to admit he was eager to see how far the colt would go and secretly hoped that he'd make Night Visions eat his dust.</sub>

[Ripley]

Laura was now sitting chilly on Lady Timeah. The dark filly was absolutely floating over the sand, wild thing that she was. She was perfectly in tune with World Dominion, relaxed where he was pressured. She had Night Visions just behind her, but she was cruising in the captain's seat. Laura had caught a sliver of silver in her rear view and knew that Danny had effectively trapped World Dominion into the front-running spot. Laura didn't mean to push the chestnut colt too far, but no way was she going to teach Lady T to play nice. She brought the filly in closer, boxing World Dominion in closer to the rail. He may have played with Ennie a bit, but he hadn't played with Laura's mount. Lady T was not a sucker and she didn't have rules to follow.

Maggie knew that Danny was on a suicide mission, but she was taking great pleasure in Nick's problem and in Laura's cunningness. Lady T was traveling smoothly and with Night Visions further out, under not much pressure. But Lady T was putting a hell of a lot of pressure on World Dominion. Danny galloped along, not liking the kickback too much, but didn't duck out. She wasn't one for spitting for the bit and calling it quits. The stout filly kept in close, running fast, but catching a breather as she slipped in behind World Dominion and just cruised.

A flying presence on Maggie's outside had the blond looking up to see Flying Fashion tearing up to Danny. Danny slammed her ears down, took in a giant breath and bolted, accepting the challenge. Maggie barely had her wits about her when she realized that the filly had spotted daylight. Slick as a fish, Swing Dancer shot between World Dominion and Lady T, legs flying beneath her as she dashed into the final turn. Laura was slightly stunned by the move, almost positive that Swing Dancer had made a hole of her own between World Dominion and Timeah.

Uno Momento carried on proudly, his strides strong and fluid despite the ruckus up front. Adele had triggered a domino effect causing first Flying Fashion to move and then Swing Dancer to bolt for the lead. Justin had released a big breath of relief when he saw Danny thread the needle and sweep to the lead. Someone had a tremendous amount of courage. A flicker of movement caught Justin's eye, so subtle he'd barely missed it. Ripley was finally revving the engine on Enrapture.

The head trainer of Witch Creek had taken in everything, from the sprinters causing issues, from World Dominion being forced to run by his own stablemate. She was sitting on a sports car ready to make the most of the golden opportunity. Her green eyes had noted Justin's interest in following her and while Justin had a solid horse, he did not have the closing kick of Enrapture.

Justin swore profusely when Ripley set Ennie down for the drive and Uno could only lumber along and not follow. The big blazed colt followed, bullying his way beyond Sophie's Pride and then beyond Flying Fashion. He wondered if Ripley would cut inside between Lady T and Night Visions for a gap had opened up there as well.

And that she did. Ripley snapped the reins to the left, nearly cutting off Uno Momento and sent Enrapture blazing through the gap and viciously taking on Lady T and Night Visions. Quarters got a little tight, but the light bay snake slipped into the clear, leaving Lady T in her wake. Thrilled, Ripley let the reins loose around Ennie's neck, allowed her to gallop under her own brain power. The light bay had her sights firmly set on Swing Dancer, but could already see the gray miss faltering.

Mal held his breath as Danny fell back, sucked between Lady T and World Dominion once again. Her brilliant move was forgotten under the onslaught of stayers. He would not forget that uncanny move. She was a brave sucker. Lady Timeah had pulled up as well, finding the speed too tough and leaving Ennie to bare the brunt of three colts.

Three, only because Uno Momento had come to life. The colt had trail-blazed up to run side by side with Night Visions, his big ears flat into his flying black tresses. Justin was impressed with the horse, thrilled that the colt could move once he straightened out. He kept his hands low on the horses neck.

To Ripley's count, Ennie was the lone female taking the stand. She knew World Dominion was on her inside, knew Night Visions was on her outside. On the other side of Night Visions, was the grinding Uno Momento. Ripley's filly was on the lead and she was doing her best to stave off all her enemies. She was a good show girl, a suspense maker. Enrapture lingered, packing a punch to the colts' swollen egos. There were fifty yards left and Ripley had plenty of horse. She knew they had Uno beaten, but did World Dominion have what it took to run a blistering mile and hold off a fresh Ennie and a cunning Night Visions? Ripley's green eyes flashed, shifting sideways so that Ennie was forced to engage with Night Visions. They were not going to make it easy on the Night Stalker colt.

After all, he was the whole reason the gallop had turned into a race.

[Cavallo]

<sub>Nick had two options. One: Push the colt to the finish. or Two: wait...what was the other option? It had been a pickle. The pace had been rocking fast and while Nick had been concerned Duke had been running on sheer exhileration, but he sensed that the change was in the air as a filly slipped through a hole and then fell back and then there was the prize. Enrapture and Nick felt Duke's full possessive nature come to life, he was done playing games. He put on more speed as he began to pull away from Swing Dancer and Lady T, running sure on the rail. It was a mad dash to finish and Nick fully released the colt and he flew with a kick that had him gasping. Where had this been for the mile gallop? With fifty yards left it was coming down to a four horse contest. Michael watched as Enrapture powered by them and he'd let go.

Sy flew like an arrow down the middle, straight and true. He lingered a brief moment as Duke fired up, but he was already rolling with a turn of foot that had Michael wanting to squeal like a little school-girl, but naturally of course he didn't. Sy had only eyes for Enrapture and he was firing and closing with a ruthlessness that would give no quarter. He'd wanted this filly all along and Duke was just an added benefit. Michael saw Nick and World Dominion firing, truly firing and he had to admit that for the grueling mile pace, this colt had more. So that's what all that extra energy can do. Ethan mused as he watched the chestnut fire for the finish and ride the lead's inner flank. Seeing a glimpse of the chestnut colt snapped something within the colt. The time had come. The fish had bitten and now it was time to reel it all in. Michael let the colt do his thing and before he knew what had happened he glanced over to see a cat-eyed Ripley Marsh and a fighting Enrapture and the finish was only strides away. Michael felt the colt maintain for a moment, latching onto the filly's eye and then he felt the pull for more as the colt reached ahead, one final dare for the filly to accept. She would either be an equal and rise to the challenge or be lumped with Duke. Michael held his breath as the wind whipped by and then the finish mark as the colt kept pulling away, tail and head held high as he slowly brought the colt down. He didn't know what had happened, but he was absolutely and irrevocably addicted to this Night Stalker son. He was like crack and he knew that he would put up with any hell this colt might throw to be able to bring along that kind of talent.

Nick and Duke pulled up a half length behind the front two and he hadn't even seen who'd done what. The grinding Uno had been a major propulsion for the chestnut's final pursuit and he was pleased to see the colt handled himself well under pressure. He slapped the colt's neck and allowed the lathered colt to slow down at his own pleasure, which was obviously past Night Visions who was shooting a smug challenge at the colt's back. They had been bamboozled into taking a lead that had run at a suicide pace, but the colt had been firing up for more. He liked that. He could do wonders with that.

The herd passed, but Ariel Winslow didn't give a rats butt about those ahead. She and Captain soared at a steady rate, much to the colt's chargrin, but as they all entered into the final turn she'd sent Captain flying as Sophie's Pride and Adele roared to life alongside them. It suddenly had become a two horse sprint race to the finish and it looked like neither was willing to bend, but Adele had made a cunning move in pushing Captain earlier. The colt had messed up and they were here to collect on their investment.

Lady T and Swing Dancer loomed ahead and she wanted to be done with the grey colt by her side and so Adele was more than happy to oblige. With a flick of the reins she sent the filly to truly fly and as she shot off, Ariel and Captain rode hard on her butt, but alas they couldn't run through horses and as Sophie's Pride gunned along the outside unhindered to reach the leading fillies flanks he was pushed back. As World Dominion powered up on the rail she pushed the colt to make for the new hole on the inside to take on the three fillies, but he'd lost time and fell short by a neck as the fillies flashed to a finish before him.

There was no way for Adele to tell where Sophie had fallen in the filly herd, but all that mattered was a certain woman had come up short. She schooled her features, but she burst with pride for her competitive filly as she slowed her down to an easier pace. She smiled over at Laura and Maggie. Good run guys! She genuinely meant it too. Ariel flashed a smile to the other girls, her brown eyes darkening as they rested on Adele, but she decided not to stew on it. She didn't understand Adele's dislike for her, but she knew she didn't have to retaliate and in all honesty, she had to admire the cunning of her riding, though...if she hadn't run into her little road block she was sure she would of been the one to have the flashy smile. She shook her head as she let Captain canter out. To fall behind to horses like these wasn't a bad thing and someone had to come in last...

You did great Captain. We'll bring you along just fine. We made last place look really good. She ruffled the lathered colt's mane and let it all worry slip off like water on a duck's back.

Nick smiled as he approached Ripley and her fiery filly. Well Ripley. She is a killer closer and no mistaking it.

Ethan exhaled at the finish and hadn't even realized he'd been holding his breath. This was only two stables. TWO. And yet the talent here was beyond understanding. He couldn't even begin to comprehend how competitive the juvenile division was going to be in Y15. It was going to be a cut-throat field if this little exhibition was any indication.</sub>

[Ripley]

Enrapture was not going to be outfinished by Night Visions. She kept steady with him through the wire, head and tail carried high. Her shark-like eyes stayed even with the Night Stalker colts, daring him to call her weak like his stablemate. Ripley stayed still as the light bay filly cantered out, slowing from a gallop into a trot and then into a high-prancing walk. Ennie was a different kind of filly, a rough and tough filly who could look anyone in the eyes and not be made submissive. She snorted furiously, shaking away the dust and sand that caked her black lashes and stuck to her slick chest. Yet, she looked awfully proud of herself. Ripley patted the filly animatedly, felt a pinch of sadness when she realized that she would not get to be apart of the filly's journey on the track, at least not for a year or so.

She let out a hoot, shaking off the emotion and smiled at Michael and then Nick who approached aboard World Dominion. The chestnut colt had been all heart in that last fifty yards. Ripley was thinking he would have made a stronger showing had her fillies not put him so on the spot. He was one to watch for next season, but Ripley wasn't sure who she'd have against him. Her thoughts flickered to the wild filly back home. Perhaps Awestruck would be up to the task. Mal seemed to hold that one on a high pedestal. Ripley narrowed her eyes on Dominion in thought, but smiled at Nick's words.

"She's malleable which makes her the killer she is. Honestly, one of our more professional horses." Ripley looked up at Justin as he rode up aboard Uno Momento. Her green eyes swept over the bay colt, stunned to find him nearly cooled out. He'd been running just as hard as Ennie, Night Visions and World Dominion. The blaze-marked colt strode powerfully beneath Justin as though looking for more to do. Justin bumped fists with Ripley, smiled. "Just wait til he rounds into something. Sunny may have yet another grade one baby in the future."

Ripley nodded, gaze following Uno has he muscled his way forward. She'd have to keep an eye on him. He should have been soaked with sweat instead of clean and neat. "You've got two very good colts. I didn't get much of a look at the filly and the Flying Colours colt. Ennie wasn't about to give up a good fight."

Justin slapped his hand against Uno's thick neck. "Mal, we might turn this big hulk into something just yet." Mal grinned up at the boy, as he ran his hands over Uno's body in slight disbelief. The horse was hardly blowing. "He looked great out there. Fourth best in the long-distance ranks, but you crushed the sprinters to say the least."

Justin laughed as he rode Uno away back to the barn. They had a half year to make up a length on Enrapture and Night Visions. He wasn't counting World Dominion, after all that one was destined to be a turfer.

Ripley nodded to Nick, "I need to talk to you after, get some feedback on some things. Want to meet back near my barn? We have a spot to graze the horses." Not waiting for a response, the auburn haired woman trotted Enrapture off, keen to get a move on.

She waved at Adele as she passed, waved at Ariel. Ennie drew alongside a walking Swing Dancer and Lady Timeah. "You guys want to go back and feed. I'm taking Malcolm with me to talk to Nick Landing. After feed, just start packing things up. Trailer heading home comes in at nine with Brooks driving it. He likes to be punctual."


Justin, Laura and Maggie exit to feed.
Lady Timeah, Uno Momento, Swing Dancer exit.

Remaining: Malcolm, Ripley, Enrapture

[Cavallo]

<sub>Night Visions snorted pleased with himself and willing at the moment to reward Michael's coperation with temporary compliance. It was funny when Sy thought he was in charge, but that was the way the colt needed to perceive things in order to perform at his best and so...Michael let the colt think he knew it all...for now. He heard Ripley request a meeting with Nick and he arched his brow at his brother in question, but the older Landing shook his head and pointed Duke over to the rail. He paused alongside Ariel and Adele. Good work Ladies. Head over to Ethan. I have a meeting to attend to with Ripley. Adele cocked an eyebrow at the news, but waved back at Ripley in turn. Ariel didn't hesitate and preferring to distance herself from Adele was quick follow through on her boss' orders. She paused briefly and talked to Ethan and nodded in agreement and with a flick of Flying Fashion's tail was trotting towards the gap back towards the Intrepid area of the barns.

Ethan cocked an eyebrow at Ariel's hasty retreat, but said nothing as Michael rode by with solid looking Night Visions. Be honest Landing. Was that your cunning or his out there? Michael have the trainer a mischievous smile. Come on Ethan a good jockey never reveals his secrets. and with that was hot on Ariel's trail.

Adele's eyes watched Ariel's retreat and she felt a twinge of guilt. She'd made this ride a bit personal and she knew that later she would have to hunt the woman down and apoligize. The woman was just soooo...cocky. She shook her head and let the thought go. It would do to be in a row like this with one of her co-workers. Nick saw Adele's inner battle play out in her eyes and as Duke shifted restlessly after Sy, he asked her outright if something was wrong. Everything between you and Ariel kosher? She responded with a role of her eyes and click of her tongue to Lyra. Nick and Adele traveled over the sand with purpose over to the gap at the rail where Ethan was waiting and Nick was quick to dismount. He spoke quickly with Ethan and handed off the reins to the trainer and he turned to walk in-hand with the still dancing colt, though he was much easier to handle in light of the workout and for that Ethan was grateful. Nick looked up at Adele as she sat astride her mount. Well. Are you going to come with me? She smiled slightly and dismounted. Her feet touched the ground as the grey filly lipped the top of her shoulder in play, but sensing a bite to come Adele was quick to thwart the filly's attempt. None of that now. She shook her head in feigned hurt, but Adele knew better. It okay if I bring Lyra with? Her eyes darted to the far gone Ethan. Nick nodded and the two plodded along towards Witch Creek's area of the barn.

He waved at the Witch Creek people as they went off to finish their assignments, his eyes looking for the auburn haired woman. Seeing her exactly where she described the two strode over with a content, but alert Lyra taking in all the sights and sounds. Spotting the bay filly from before she rumbled slightly, but stilled at Adele's touch. They stopped at the grassy area and Adele allowed the filly to drop her head to graze, her mind made up to be indifferent at this moment to the other equine.

Hey there Ripley. He looked and saw Malcolm there as well. Malcolm. He nodded and turned back to the woman. What is it that you'd like feedback on? Hope it's okay that I brought Adele along. Adele nodded to both Ripley and Mal, her smile coming slightly alive as her gaze rested on Mal. She wanted nothing more than to step closer to the man and so she did, well as far as the grazing Lyra would allow anyways. Nick was intrigued. Well then again he always was intrigued when a woman like Ripley Marsh came to him vaguely asking to meet with him and he had no clue what was going on.

Ethan, Ariel & Michael gone.
World Dominion, Night Visions & Flying Fashion gone.

Nick, Adele, Sophie's Pride remain.</sub>

[Ripley]

Malcolm relaxed against the tree, sharp eyes going over his fingernails. He wasn't a city slicker by any means. His fingers were chopped, his hands calloused and black from dirt and manure. Somehow he was content with that, had no interest in going to find a hose to wash his hands. Clothed in a black t-shirt and blue jeans, Mal looked the very relaxed horseman he was. He was happy with how things were... in most respects.

He had a good, steady job, a boss who liked him and appreciated his wit and the most beautiful woman in the world. His blue eyes sparked when that woman appeared alongside Nick Landing and the yearling she'd ridden earlier. She was gorgeous and wonderful, a complication and a source of relief. He smiled at her, but his gaze was drawn to Ripley who remained stiff and quiet beside a grazing Enrapture. There was a puzzled look on the woman's face, a look that suggested the owner of Witch Creek was caught between a rock and a hard place.

She'd never said anything to him, but her face had shown flickers of worry. Everyone had their secrets. Ripley had more than most. Mal slapped a hand on the tree, purposely, and nodded in the direction of Nick and Adele. The slim woman's eyebrows rose, her shoulders rolled as though she were shaking out of a memory.

"Adele's always welcome around Witch Creek. She was a big help during foaling season." Mal nodded in agreement, felt a longing to move to Adele's side. Something held him to the spot he stood in. Ripley's voice had been strong, but uneasiness had him shifting from foot to foot. Her usually bright eyes were dimmer and it was as though she were about to dole out a death sentence rather than speak about something bright to a rival and friend.

"Might as well get right to it, huh?" Ripley sighed. "I think I'm going to be leaving the jockey ranks for a year or so. Maybe for a while longer than a year."

Mal felt his heart lighten and sink all at once. It was the kind of words you didn't expect to hear. You didn't expect to hear a Hall Of Fame rider just say these kind of things. Especially a rider who had been around for as long as he could remember. It was different for a female jockey, Mal knew. "For what reason," Mal asked, voice soft and supportive.

"I think Brooks and I are going to be having a baby."

Mal could barely stop the breath from whooshing through his lips. If it had been any other woman, Mal would have run to Ripley and hugged her, congratulated her. But the way she'd said her words, told Mal she wasn't so happy about the prospect. Mal wasn't so sure the woman had told Brooks yet. From her uneasy eyes, Mal figured she hadn't. Word would get back to the assistant trainer soon enough. Hopefully, not before Ripley got to him first.

Ripley did not meet Mal's eyes or Nick's or Adele's. She moved closer to Enrapture, placing her shaking hands on the warm honey colored hide of her yearling. Ennie lifted her head, nearly meeting Ripley's gaze, her expression serious but not threatening. Ripley felt as though the world would tumble at her feet. Her career was gone, potentially forever, but she could not give up this baby. Even if it was out of wedlock. Ripley had never been one for tradition anyway.

Ripley went on, voice turning clipped and professional, demanding as always. "Anyway, I'm going to be quite a bit shaky for the next months as you can imagine. First trimester is not exactly the most pleasant. I have full plans to ride in the Breeders' Cup. It'll be like a bit of a going out party for me." Ripley's fierce gaze dared someone to deny the right to ride, dared them to question her safety. Mal remained quiet, though he had more than enough reservations. He would speak to Ripley in private.

"I will ride as strongly as I have ever ridden, make no mistakes about that. Then after the Breeders' Cup, I'm on the sidelines until I pop. I'm thinking I'll miss a year and a half of riding, hopefully."