Camp Hobby Horses

by Kentavritsa

Chapters

Summer Camp; the Spirit Horse: 2
Prologue: 1
The Arrival: 3
In a Bit: 4
A New Day: 5
Facing the Elder: 6
A Crescent Moon: 7

Summer Camp; the Spirit Horse: 2

<--- --- --->

Prologue

<--- --- --->

“Page 02: 'the Spirit Horse” I read.

I am flipping the page, falling forwards and down into the narrative in a swift, fluid motion.

“Whoa!” I exclaim, thanking my lucky Star, for being in this secluded location where I don't expect anyone to see me or find out.

<--- --- --->

I had just received my catalogue: “Summer Camp: for Girls”.

“Camp: Spirit Horse” I read; as I come across one particular camp, I had not seen before.

“Either this camp is new, has changed location, or I was too young to partake in the activities of the camp!” I am realizing.

“Either way, I am eager to go; maybe I could have my sister by my side, enjoying the camp right alongside me?” I breathe. (No Age Limit is mentioned, anywhere in the description)

“Duration: 2 Months” I read, “That is almost the entire summer break!” I ponder.

Of course, I had read the description thrice over; in order to make sure, I knew exactly what it entails.

“This is the Camp, I want to be at, this year..” I ponder; “now I just need to talk my sister into following me, to the camp!” I conclude.

<--- --- --->

“Yes, Sis..” she responds; “but of course, I want to follow you to Camp: Spirit Horse!” she concludes.

“A new, and very exciting camp..” she ponders; “if she had not introduced me to it; I would have been regretting missing out, to the end of days..” she realizes; “I am so grateful, for her introducing me to this camp!” she concludes.

I had packed everything, the camp expected me to carry; just as I had seen my sister, completing her packing, last night. You don’t ruin your experience, by missing packing one essential; not when it is the entire summer’s worth, of experience.

It isn’t, in the cost of going; but in the cost, of failing.

The return address is already printed, on the envelope; just as the catalogue holds the form, I need to fill in to confirm my desire to partake in the camp. Since this camp is so long, I can only partake in the one; but I managed to squeeze in, how my sister wants to follow me to the camp.

My response is prompt, much swifter than I could possibly have been anticipating; I have the confirmation, that we are to be on the camp. The two tickets are included, right along with the description of how to get to the camp: step by step. (Granted, the camp is still a week in the future.)

<--- --- --->

When the day finally arrives, on the Saturday; everything is packed and ready to go, we had both checked and double checked that everything is in and ready. Well, why not? This is the single greatest event in our lives, after all. Besides; this is our first trip alone, and together as sisters.

Father had driven us to the station, where the train is awaiting us. Naturally; the train had already been parked, well in advance; even if it had been expected to wait for a good long while, before the last participant had finally boarded. (If only I had realized; just how important this Camp really is, to the Participants taking part.)

For this long a trip, we are assigned to compartments; six girls in each compartment, for the entire trip.

Since the train is standing still, we have more than enough time to board the train; there is not all that much activity, so finding our compartment is a breeze.

I count the individual coaches: one, two, three; choosing to enter the train, close to the compartment we had been assigned. The door on the right side of the coach is open, eagerly awaiting us. I step in, with my sister in tow.

Everything I will need, ready and waiting in my back pack; just as the instructions demands. Never break the demands given; or you will end up regretting the mistakes, when the issue is finally revealed. Doesn’t matter how long it takes, it will be revealed. (I don’t chance escaping. {something as silly as a single bottle of water; could spell disaster, once it comes into play.})

<--- --- --->

As I am stepping in, into the coach; I am greeted by the lavish decorations, even if it isn’t the first class standard. Maybe I should have been expecting it, if I had realized where we are going.

The walls had been laid with Mahogany wood, aged by time. Should I be escaping, fearing where we were going? Why? I can’t leave the train now, just as I had stepped in.

I read the numbers on the doors to the compartments, counting up to the number indicating our seats. Apparently; my sister and I had been afforded the window seats, permitting us to sit face to face. How generous. Or, is it just luck of the draw? The seating arrangements had not been described, or specified; even if I had realized, that we were to go by train from day one.

I slide the door up, stepping in with my sister in tow; the compartment is empty, devoid of people. (No little girls, to be seen.) Oh, well.

Once inside, I close the door; sliding my back pack off of me, before I am helping my sister to store hers under the seat. Conveniently enough; there is more than enough space under the seat; for one back pack, such as I had been instructed to carry.

Several minutes later, I can see the door once more slide up; two girls in my age stepping in, before they close the door behind themselves.

“Hi!” I exclaim, greeting the new girls with which I am to share the time at the camp.

“Hi!” the girls respond, as they step into the compartment.

With the greetings out of the way, they soon find their seats. I quietly watch them, as they slip their back packs in under their respective seats, before they claim their respective seats.

I guess, we could as well make ourselves comfortable; this is going to be a long ride, even before the train had even departed. (We had been among the first to arrive, and the train is holding the position for an entire hour.)

After a moment, I notice the two girls making curious expressions; as if they had not been expecting me and my sister to share the compartment, with them. (If only I had realized, the true cause of their surprised {curious} expressions) If they step onto the train, at the same station; they had to be living in the neighbourhood, or at least, reasonably close by. (Wouldn’t they?) I don’t ask, and neither does my sister.

“Oups..” I exclaim and my sister is looking up; “did you slip the accessories off of you?” I inquire.

“No..” she responds; “it never occurred to me, I should!” she concludes.

“Maybe we should have, but I guess it is too late now!” I put forth.

One of the girls is looking critically at me, examining my face; in the hopes of figuring out, what I had been talking about. Only for her companion to exclaim; “Oh..” as her eyes caught the equine ears on my head, whereupon I hear them giggling, for a long moment.

“Camp Spirit Horse..” the girls breathe.

“Yes..” my sister supplies, “you are going there, too?” she inquires.

“That is the destination of this train, yes!” the second girl confirms.

A moment later, the door is sliding up; whereupon two more girls step in, closing the door behind themselves.

The compartment now full, there is a click; the door temporarily locking, denoting that the compartment is fully occupied.

“Hi..” the new girls put forth, and the rest of us echo the greeting.

I notice, just how eager the girls are; partaking in this camp: Spirit Horse, even if I haven’t quite figured out just how important this is to them. Oh, well; I will learn, soon enough. (Even if they don’t let on or tell me.)

They had all known of this camp, preparing for it in their own time; we had merely stumbled upon it, as we just so happened to qualify for this event. It will prove, to be a water-shed event; in the life of a young girl’s life, proving one ready for certain levels of responsibility. If you grow up in the culture, there is no escaping what is to come; for the rest, you will just have to learn as you go.

I notice; that none of these girls are wearing any make-up, or the traditional accessories one is expecting a girl to wear. Just as they all had noticed, what accessories my sister and I are wearing; even if certain items had still escaped them, as we had chosen skin-tone for these accessories. It had just felt prudent, at the time; now it is going to have entirely new connotations, in our place. Who could have guessed? Certainly not I; nor, my sister.

The expression of the girls slowly change, over time; as it is occurring to them, what the implications of us being on the train. They had never expected to see us, on the train; largely, because they could not have been prepared to see girls outside of their community. While they may have expected to see new faces, along the ride; but that was not including us, as they had been expected to see only girls from their community in this compartment.

By the time, the train is starting to move; the girls we share the compartment with, all smile at us. Either of us fully grasping the significance or meaning; but to make a few new friends, with people you view as like-minded, is always welcome. At least, it is in my opinion and experience.

Since we had been invited to partake, we are here; strictly under the understanding, that we are following their customs. As the guest, you follow the rules of the location; you can’t expect, to be given special privileges on the account. (Am I becoming an honorary member, of this community; simply by partaking in this camp, and what it is representing to them?) I should be feeling honoured, just by being here; able to partake, in the camp to which I had been invited.

At first, little is said. I am casting scattered glances out the window; but since there is little of interest outside the train, I soon turn my attention back to the new friends by my side. Of course; my sister is facing me; just as I had been expecting, from the beginning.

I am a bit worried, at first; not sure, what I am supposed to say or ask. On the other rubbery hoof; I soon notice, they are a bit confused and unsure what to ask. Gone is the interest, in reading any of the books I had brought with me.

After an hour, of journey; the door is sliding up; a woman is peaking in, examining who is on the train. I guess, this should have been expected. I just had not realized it, from the start. She had denoted who is in the compartment, scribbling down the names; making sure, everyone who should be in, is actually present.

She leaves, after closing the door behind herself.

I pull the table out, expecting to be served the meal; since this is a very long ride, and knowing just how hungry we will be as we arrive.

Once she had completed her round, she is returning to our compartment. She is sliding the door up; before she is placing a plate, before each of us. I feel my mouth watering, as I am salivating.

The other girls are also finding the meal appetizing, eager to dig in; taking their time, enjoying the meal and savouring the flavours on display.

“Eating like a Horse..” I whisper; “they certainly are not eating like Dogs!” my sister responds.

The girls, in whose company we are sitting; has heard nothing, not even reacting on the conversation I share with my sister.

“While it may have been prudent, to leave our accessories at home..” I whisper; “now is not the time to take it off!” I conclude.

“Oh..” my sister responds; “but I couldn’t..” she continues; “I would feel weird; even if I just slipped them off, for an hour!” she explains.

I just nod.

One girl is looking up, momentarily; trying to make sense, out of what she thought she had perceived.

The other girls had not even noticed it, engrossed in their meal as they are; the girl returns her full attention to her own meal. Enjoying the offering, the meal is representing; preparing for what is to come, as best she can.

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

The Arrival

<--- --- --->

Prologue: 1

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

Summary

<--- --- --->

“Page 01: Prologue” I read.

I am flipping the page, falling forwards and down into the narrative in a swift, fluid motion.

“Whoa!” I exclaim, thanking my lucky Star, for being in this secluded location where I don't expect anyone to see me or find out.

<--- --- --->

I step into the crafting supply shop, intent on browsing their wears. It's fun, shopping, even if you don't intend to actually buy anything. Just browsing their wears, looking at various items.

After a while, I enter the section for crafting hobbyhorses. How curious. Not only do they have a set of more or less complete hobbyhorses; but various odds and ends intent to craft what you like to personalize and dress up your favourite hobbyhorse as well. Including the crafting of a stable for your hobby horses. Plural, as in multiple hobbyhorses.

From the components I can see, I could craft anything and everything for a hobbyhorse, as if it had been a horse of flesh and blood. I find it curious, almost stumbling over the implications. Hobbyhorses seems to have been the latest screech.

Of course, they had to include bits to these hobbyhorses. In the same vein, these bits have to look as if they had been intended for actual horses; just in the size for a hobbyhorse in place of the actual horse.

Incidentally, the size of the bit would actually fit in the mouth of a Human, wouldn't it? I just had to pick up one of these bits in my hand; wiping it off with my hands and a small piece of cloth in order to try it on, for myself.

There was none around at the time, thankfully. I think it would have been embarrassing no end, had I been found out; trying this bit replica on for myself, in the store. While I don't know if anyone would actually had cared, if they had seen it; maybe this is just in my head, but it is still embarrassing to me all the same.

While the bit appears to fit me, perfectly; but it would not stay in place, all by itself. I will need a halter, in order to hold my bit in my mouth. Just as the bit will not stay in the mouth of a horse; without this halter, either. Not just because the horse may choose to spit it out, for any reason; but the bit was never designed, to stay inside the mouth all by itself in the first place. Why would it? It's supposed to be taken out, every once in a while.

On closer inspection; I can see various types of bits, to look as if they had been intended for use on horses. How curious? But, if you want to sell the idea, you have to play the part; which includes making several different models. For the same reason, they had plated or coated these bits with various metals of different colours to sell the idea. Though I could see it, as if the colour could play a more decorative role as well. Maybe I want the light gray, high polished finish? Or, I may prefer a mater finish, or a different hue? I pick up a white, yellow and red bit; intent on purchasing them, for myself. The price is reasonable enough, for me to afford picking them up; even if I were to change my mind tomorrow, without even attempting to return these items afterwards.

“Gold and Silver!” I ponder, knowing they are not truly gold or silver; just made to look like it, for my benefit.Gold and Silver are far too expensive, for these items, in the price-range I or anyone like me could possibly afford.

Though the red could actually be copper, even if I know it is just plated with a thin layer of the precious metal.

Picking the bit proved only too easy. It is simple to pick up a standard bit, of course.

Once I had confirmed that the bit was to fit comfortably in my mouth, I had selected the type that was closest to my idea. I choose the double link model.

What isn't quite as easy, is to find the halter. Since I can't use the standard model, I have to craft it from scratch; or it could never fit my face, of course. Just as I could not ask, for what I am looking for.

I end up, picking a length of leather looking straps matching what is used in the standard model. I choose to pick one black, white and light pink branded skin-tone. How this would possibly work, but I ran with the idea just for the fun of it. Maybe I could use this, to craft a bracelet too?

“Should I have one or two inch wide?” I ponder.

Since the store is not oriented towards the hobby horse exclusively, I could ask for the information I need; just so long as I don't explain the exact intent, but dress up the questions for a more general crafting purpose.

How convenient, I don't need to pick up material for the blinders; but I don't feel, as if I need them in the first place. This is not the kind of store, where they sell the item in the first place.

Conveniently enough, I find the item intended for cutting and linking the straps respectively. With these in hand, I can craft the halter with relative ease.

<--- --- --->

I had paid for my purchase and left the store, smiling.

The bit itself is fitting into my mouth, comfortably; partially due to the fact, I am missing the teeth where the bit is intended to fit into the mouth. Silly detail? But, it's what it is; I am currently missing these teeth.

With the bit securely in my mouth, the rings are sticking out in the corners of my mouth. I'm quietly giggling at this image, as I am looking into the mirror, as I am examining my appearance.

Of course, I had to see how I am looking; with the new bit in my mouth, and to see if and how well it is actually fitting. Maybe I had picked it up on a whim, but once I had picked it up, it is no longer a random act.

On second thought; I have a tiara with Pony ears on top of it. I rearrange my hair, before I am sticking it in on top of my head; changing my hair style, by combing enough hair back over it to hide the tiara completely.

In the mirror, I can see myself smiling back; the equine ears on top of my head, sticking out between the strands of hair. How curious, but it does look pretty cute this way. I snicker.

<--- --- --->

While I had to craft the halter free-hand, stretching a strap under my chin and another behind my neck; but I think I had managed to get the size and fit just right, in order to give me a comfortable fit for me.

The only real trick, is in how to make these Leather straps to hold my bit in place. With a bit of experimentation, I soon get the straps to hold the bit in place.

“There...” I exclaim, under my breath, as I complete the first of my bits.

“Whoa!!” I proclaim, as I manage to insert the bit and secure it behind my neck.

The fit is surprisingly tight and snug around my face, as the halter is holding the bit in a firm grip; securing it into my mouth, quite comfortably.

Since I have the first bit, just right, I cut straps of the next colour in exact length; crafting myself the second halter. Repeating the process, crafting the halters for all my bits. Black straps for the gold, skin-tone for the Copper and white for silver.

“Okay, that was actually rather fun!” I mouth, under my breath.

If I am looking at my reflection, in the mirror; I can barely see the outlines of the halter, while I wear the light pink, skin-tone halter. How curious? Yet, I barely feel it, as the straps are hugging my skin; in its skin-tight fashion, and it slips smoothly over my skin, as my skin moves.

What if I were to attach a head-set mike to this halter, even if the bit is restraining my speech a little. I can't exactly deny the effect, even if I can put effort into minimizing it.

I just so happen to have such a head-set, in a matching tone; I had chosen this a while back, in the hopes of wearing it without it showing.

With just a little bit of an effort, on my part; I manage to attach the mike on the side of my face, on the halter-strap on my right side. Slapping the tiny ear-pieces into my ears with the halter on my face, proves only too easy.

I undo the strap behind my neck, before I am polishing the halter-straps up nicely; putting the halter back on, before securing the halter firmly and seamlessly.

Once I had repeated the entire process, perfecting each of my remaining two halters; I place them on their respective make-up head-model. I leave these on my desk, as if I was expecting them to respond to me; permitting me to converse with them, if I sit before my desk.

I walk up to the door of my room, opening it before I step out of my room without a thought; before I continue to walk and ends up before the door to my sister, knocking.

<--- --- --->

“Enter!” my sister exclaims, bidding me to enter her room.

I open the door and enter her room.

“Hi, Sis!” she responds, as she sees me entering her room.

“Hi, Sis!” I respond, just as I had closed the door behind myself.

She is looking at me, studying me critically; without really notice the halter and bit I am wearing.

“Kind of unexpected..” she now offers;”what did you have in mind?” she inquires.

“I wanted to see your reaction, on what I had crafted..” I explain; “and hear your opinion on this as an accessory; if you don't mind!” I conclude.

“Wait, you are wearing an accessory, you crafted yourself?” she inquires, critically looking at me even closer.

“You recall the skin-tone head-set I bought a while back?” I inquire.

“Oh, yes..” she responds; “and you are wearing it right now?” she then inquires, giggling.

“Oh, but of course!” I respond, nodding my head.

“It's very hard to see, in the skin-tone hue!” she affirms; “so I had to ask!” she then points out.

“So, you approve of my accessory?” I inquire.

“Wait, what?” she now blurts out; “If I had one, just like yours; we could talk to one-another, without anyone even realizing!” she then pushes forth.

“If you like; I could take you to the stores, and help you craft one of your own!” I promise.

“You could?” she inquires; “I would love that, very much!” she continues; “Just curious; are the ears part of the item, or are they optional?” she then inquires.

“My ears are a separate accessory, for now!” I respond; “Though I guess, one could integrate them into the design, if so desired..” I then add; “if you would like it, that is!” I offer; “Just have to figure out, how to integrate these ears and make the best use of them!” I then ponder, nodding as I giggle at the result.

“Are you thinking of Wi-Fi, or Mikes?” she inquires.

“Since you mention it; both could work, all depending on what you want!” I offer.

“If possible; both is better than just the one!” she points out; “This could be our sisterly secret..” she suggests; “if this is what you had in mind, I am all for it!” she responds.

“Sisterly Secret it is!” I confirm; “While I could make hers without the bit, but I should still leave this choice up to her!” I ponder; “We'll hit the mall in a few days, and you can pick the items for yourself!” I then promise.

<--- --- --->

“These are the straps you used to craft your accessory?” she inquires.

“Yes..” I respond; “but you could choose straps in any hue available; if you don't want them skin-tone!” I then add.

She is picking up a skin-tone, a black and a red strap, all one and a half inch wide. I point out the equipment I had used in crafting the halter; without directly naming it, as such. In public, I leave the sensitive details out.

“These are the hobby-horse bits!” I indicate, pointing the items out.

“Whoa!!” she breathes.

“Rather cute, if I can say so myself!” I put forth.

“Yes, you can..” she responds; “and I will need one of these!” she puts forth, as she is picking up a double-jointed bit in Copper, as we continue.

I take the opportunity, picking a head-piece for my hobby horse; which incidentally happens to be me, matching my ears just for the fun of it.

She is blushing, as she is picking a black, a red and a gold one for herself.

“Sisterly secret!” she whispers; as we are walking up to the counter, in order to pay for our respective purchases.

“Exactly!” I respond.

<--- --- --->

Just as I had promised, I had crafted a halter for my sister. I used the straps she had selected, in the process.

Once she had put the halter on, with the bit securely in her mouth; I attach the mike and the head-phone.

“Neat!!” she exclaims; "and you don't even notice it is there!” she now concludes; as if she is indecided on if she describes what she is feeling, or what she is seeing in the mirror.

Since she chose the skin-tone, the straps blends in with her skin perfectly. Considering the material of the straps, the halter is all but impossible to feel.

Once the mikes and Wi-Fi antennae had been integrated into the ears; one could connect them to the head-set and quietly converse even well out of earshot and eye-sight with ease.

Just for play, I had crafted a second halter for the both of us. Choosing a red double-jointed bit, only to polish the mid-section with a gel to make a curious sensation. Though I guess the gel is inducing increased salivating as well.

I watch her putting on her new halter, inserting the bit into her mouth; only for her to blush, as the bit is slipping over her tongue. How could I blame her, when I am reacting the same way? I find my face go read and hot as I find myself a bit excited and wet.

“Sisterly secret!” we exclaim in chorus, still experiencing the blush.

Once the proclamation had been pronounced, the flush slowly resides.

She had chosen to play along with the idea I had presented, sharing in the secret. Just that she had expanded on the secret, I offered her. If she had been interested, impressed or excited initially, but the secret had eventually been shared.

“You surprised me, as you shared this with me!” she points out.

“But you enjoy, what I offered you?” I inquire.

“You presented your idea, in such a light as to make it irresistible!” she responds; “It may be a bit out there, but since you chose to forgo the blinders and any other overtly obvious item; you sold it to me, and now I find this exciting!” she pushes forth.

“An open secret, hidden in plain sight?” I inquire.

“We can wear this in plain sight, yes..” she responds, giggling; “and none would be the wiser!” she concludes.

“I was never into being loud, but I still love to chat and have things to share with you!” I mouth.

“I have always loved the sisterly secrets, we have shared; and I will love sharing them with you, always!” she concludes.

<--- --- --->

The story works like a charm, playing out like a dream. Not quite like the regular book walking, but is still enjoyable to experience.

And just like a dream, it slowly fades and blurs out; permitting me to return to the land of the living, still remembering the entire adventure as if I had experience it in the flesh.

I sit, where I had been sitting; as I was starting to read the book, as the adventure claimed me. It is almost, like an Isekai, aside from me being returned to my own body.

“Whoa!” I exclaim; closing my mouth, as I am coming back to myself.

I had been the girl, for the duration of the entire adventure; experiencing everything, as if I had been her.

I recall what had happened, every last tiny minute sensory perception. Not just the images and the words, but how she felt and what she had thought; in the moment of the event, taking place.

Guess I had known this all along; since it isn't exactly the first chapter, of the book.

The book is already closed, as I am exiting the book. Just like the previous chapter of the adventure.

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

Summer Camp; the Spirit Horse

<--- --- --->

The Arrival: 3

<--- --- --->

Summer Camp; the Spirit Horse

<--- --- --->

“Page 03: The Arrival” I read.

I am flipping the page, falling forwards and down into the narrative in a swift, fluid motion.

“Whoa!” I exclaim, thanking my lucky Star, for being in this secluded location where I don't expect anyone to see me or find out.

The meal had been glorious, and I had enjoyed every last bite of it; as had my little sister, and the companions of my compartment. I expect, the girls on the train had all been enjoying it; even if I am assuming they had been better prepared, for what is to come.

Maybe, just maybe; the surprise is just serving, as extra seasoning? I certainly did enjoy this meal, all the same.

The train had made a few stops, along the way; precious few stops, though. Maybe this should have been expected? Why use several trains, when you only need the one? This train is not even all that long, as trains go; just long enough, to hold all the girls who are to partake in this camp. Spirit Horse, is a very special camp; a ceremony, a rite of passage.

I had been accepted, to partake; but what will this mean to me, when all is said and done? I am still the daughter of my father, and the sister of the girl before me. This will not change. What will change, depends on how I am making it, at the camp. (Although; some may claim, it is all a foregone conclusion.)

Not that every girl partaking is automatically making it; but if I am here, I have a fair chance. Why bother sending girls, if you know they had already failed? Just to make them into failures? I certainly hope, this is not the case.

Maybe I should ask? Preparing for what is to come.

<--- --- --->

I feel surprisingly unweird. (Yes, that is ‘Normal’, isn’t it.)

<--- --- --->

“One more stop, and we are there..” one girl on my right says.

“Finally..” the girl on the right of my sister responds; “Not that the ride has not been pleasant; but I am very eager, to get to the camp!” she concludes.

“We have all been looking forwards, to this camp!” my sister responds. (Talking for everyone, even if she could know only her own feelings{Including mine, of course.})

Everyone just nods, confirming what she had just stated. She had been right, of course. But, we had all known that; since before we had even entered the train.

Since our compartment had already been filled up, we never saw another girl entering. Maybe they had planned it, all along; to fill up each compartment and coach at the same station. Well, why not?

Either way, the train stops, at the final stop; the doors unlock, indicating that we have reached our destination.

We had already folded the table up, before we arrive; just as the woman herding the trolley had fetched our dishes, once we had concluded the meal.

The girl on the right of the door is raising to her feet, sliding the door up; before she is stepping out, with the rest of our group in tow. Had they planned for us to be a united group, or is it just coincidental? Either way, we slowly file out towards the door; stepping out the door, continuing to walk as a united group.

Maybe, just maybe; I should be referring to these girls, as my herd now? I eagerly follow these girls, with my sister by my side. (of course; both my sister and I had grabbed our back packs, as had the other girls.)

What is surprising me, is that there is luscious, green grass, where we are exiting the train, even though we clearly are indoors. I just snicker, enjoying the experience I had opted to experience. Knowing, my sister is reacting exactly like I am. Well, why not? She is after all my sister.

“It feels, as if we should have been barefoot, at the very least..” my sister observed; “or, possibly, bare hoofed?” she concludes.

“When you put it like that..” one girl exclaims; “yes, we should have!” she concludes.

“Wait..”another girl exclaims; “uhm, did you just say: Bare-hoofed?” she concludes.

“Yes..” my sister responds; “just feels right!” she confirms.

“I.. I.. I..” the third girl stutters; “just had never expected to hear anyone suggesting this..” she continues; “let along considered it possible, myself!” she concludes.

“Probably for the better..” I whisper; “they never saw us, as we were before; how would they have reacted, on seeing us trotting around?” I inquire.

“They would probably have been shocked..” my sister opines (Just a matter, of for what reason{s}); “I am sure I would have been; had I been them, or anyone else for that matter!” she puts forth.

“This is going to prove interesting..” the second girl suggests; “yes, very interesting!” the fourth girl prompts.

<--- --- --->

Of course, word had reached the elder; where he is sitting, waiting for us to arrive at the location where he is waiting for us.

“Wait..” the elder gasps; “the girl suggested that one should be walking Bare Hoofed on the grass?” he inquires.

“Yes..” the elderly woman by his side responds; “That is, what I have been told!” she concludes.

“Most curious..” the elder responds; “most curious, indeed!!” he considers; “But, alas; why does it sound, so logical?” he inquires.

“It is, like saying: the sky is blue..” she responds; “once you look up, it is so obvious!” she concludes.

“Yes, it is..” he merely breathes.

<--- --- --->

While there are no real trees inside; there are a few bushes, once we leave the original clearing. (Well; how could there be any trees, inside?)

After a while, the bushes and shrubs starts to encroach on the path; leading us towards the exit, through a winding path into the shades.

Rather than an actual portal; there is the mouth of a cave; taking us outside; only once we had walked all the way through, as it is opening up once more. It isn’t, as if it is hard to walk through the cave. While the grass, and the intended bushes are leaving us behind; the soil is still soft, as if intended for bare feet to walk on. (In which case; the soft pitter-patter of soft feet, would have been heard)

The walls of the cave are glowing warmly, with an eerie glow. (Is there a pattern, {Or; are there by chance pictures and images, intended to be seen and interpreted?} in the glow in this cave?)

Once we have managed to walk through the cave, the light slowly filters in; through the thick canopy of tall trees, only permitting sparse light down to the ground.

While we continue down the winding earthen path; the elders are deliberating the curious words, spoken by a girl, who had just stepped off of the train after a long trip.

Oblivious of the commotion, we continue to follow the shaded path; while my sister and I feel the pang of hooves left behind, on the account on instructions best followed. (I guess, we make do; enjoying the adventure, this camp is offering us.)

After several minutes, walking in the dark. Hand in hand; we finally reach the edge of the shade, stepping out into the bright day once more.

“While I am sure, the train could have deposited us at the camp site; but that would have defeated the purpose, of this camp in the first place!” the first girl of our herd supplies.

“I guess..” I respond; “we do have a full two months to enjoy out here!” I conclude.

“I’ve heard; that it is planned to take us two months to finish, what we have before us!” the second girl puts forth.

“The experience would be lost..” the third girl suggests; “if we were to just walk up, enjoy the event, before we walked out!” she concludes.

“Time does not exist, while we are out here..” the fourth girl points out; “it’s just an illusion, pushed upon us by those who want to own us like pets!” she concludes.

I am enjoying myself, out here; in the company of these girls, making out what is now my heard. I just had not realized it, when I were signing up for this camp for myself and my sister.

“So peaceful!” I ponder. (If only the rest of my heard could share the intimate bond I am sharing with my sister; but it isn’t, as if I could offer them their own halters? {I don’t even have the materials, required to craft them with me.})

<--- --- --->

After a long walk, we finally do reach our destination, for the day; the camp site, for the night.

While this IS; Camp: Spirit Horse, but it appears we have been referred to as: Heard Little Hooves. (At least, it is a name one could be proud of.) This is the first time, there is a Heard: Little Hooves. Not that it would have made a difference to me. Though I guess my new heard mates may beg to differ. I’m not protesting; they have been quite nice, this far.

Who knows, maybe I will even see them, again. Somewhere. Not as if I would mind, I guess; and they are not giving me the impression, they would mind either. (Not as if I gave them a reason to mind seeing me again. Why bother? {That just is not me.} Besides; I want to enjoy the Camp, as intended.)

While I may be oblivious, of the hows and whys; but it is a great shame and inconvenience on everyone, if one were to be estranged from one’s herd. The Herd, is like a second family; with which one shares experiences, and relay upon in times of hardships. (At least, it is here.) One may not expect to be (close) friends with each and everyone in the tribe, but if one is to not get along with the members of ones Herd; that would be most unfortunate, and very inconvenient.

Somehow, it seems to be a custom; to name herds after quirks and strengths, demonstrated while introducing the herd to the tribe. If only I had known, but it is too late to start to complain now. (Would it have made a difference, anyway?) Too late, by far.

“Hmm, little hooves!” the third girl is pondering, snickering to herself.

“Not exactly the name for my herd, I had been expecting..” the second girl ponders; “but somehow, it sounds like a name I could be proud of..” she realizes; “even if it makes me think, I had been expecting!” she concludes.

<--- --- --->

In the end, we do reach the clearing; where the first camp site is to be set up, for the first night of this camp.

I notice, that each herd had been offered a tent of their own.

“Little Hooves” I read, as I find the tent we had been assigned. (Of course; there can be only one herd by the same name)

“Yes, this appears to be our tent!” my sister suggests.

“The real adventure, starts first thing tomorrow morning!” the first girl puts forth, repeating what she had heard back home.

While the chance of being rejected is very small, but it is still a very real possibility; a great shame, both to the individual and the herd in question. It isn’t a banishment, but the shame of failure is still immense, all the same. Even if there is a chance to regain the status of passing the rite of passage.

I slip out of my back pack, just before I am entering the tent we had been assigned; the next girl follows suit, as does each of the girls following. Once inside the tent, we are extracting our bed rolls; placing the bed roll along the side of the tent. I’m taking the same place, as I had in the compartment; finding each girl following suit, one by one.

Only, there is no window; or, table inside the tent.

Once I had prepared for the night; I notice a dream-catcher over my pillow, just as I realize each girl has been gifted one dream-catcher of their own. Furthermore; there is a personal Totem, by the end of each bed-roll as well. What its purpose could be, I have no idea; but I imagine it is to be revealed, in due time. (How it is revealed, isn’t all that important; just that it is revealed, one way or the other. {Or it would be most embarrassing, and possibly a great (personal) shame for the affected})

<--- --- --->

After the meal, it is getting dark. While there may still be light outside, in the tent it still is growing dark. (and fast) I find myself growing tired.

I had managed to slip out of my clothes, I had been wearing the entire day; slipping them away for the night, before I had slipped into what I am to wear, for the night. The other girls of my herd does the same; none needs to remind them, and we soon slip into our respective bed-rolls.

There is a roaring fire, in the center of our camp sight; lighting up the area. It is both a center, by which to orient; as well as a light, keeping wild-life clear of our camp. Not that is expected to be a problem, but preparing before the catastrophe is better, than finding oneself in the dire straights, because of failed planning ahead of time.

While it is starting to become cool, to chilly inside the tent; it is still warm and cozy, inside my bed-roll.

“Sleep tight, and sweet dreams..” I exclaim, as I slide into my bed-roll.

Each girl is echoing my sentiment. Had they been prepared, told about what is to come? I have no idea, but the wishes are well received. It is, what I use to say, before I go to bed. Both to my parents, and to my sister. But, why not? I just feel right, wishing them these things. (If only I had realized; what my wishes means, in context.)

I hear the noises of the fire, roaring outside; finding it comforting, as it had become pitch dark in the tent.

No time to read, it is already far too dark inside. While I had planned to read, expecting the time for a good book; but I guess, that request had been denied. At least, for the first day of the camp. Oh, well; this is camp Spirit Horse, no time for reading.

I close my eyes, soon finding myself fast asleep.

It feels, as if it is but a short while later; I find myself wide awake and the bright light surrounding me. (I am dreaming; but I have no idea, that this is the case. {Should I have realized; that I am dreaming} You are rarely aware, of being in the middle of a dream, while you are in the middle of the dream; it is part of the dream.)

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

In a Bit

<--- --- --->

In a Bit: 4

<--- --- --->

The Arrival

<--- --- --->

“Page 04: 'In a Bit” I read.

I am flipping the page, falling forwards and down into the narrative in a swift, fluid motion.

“Whoa!” I exclaim, thanking my lucky Star, for being in this secluded location where I don't expect anyone to see me or find out.

The first thing I am realizing, is that my ears had fallen off of my head during the night; but I still have my ears on the top of my head, and the ears I had hidden under my hair is no longer there.

“I am wearing a bit..” I ponder; “my bit..” I continue; “While my ears fell of, my bit is still on!” I breathe.

“Where am I?” I hear my sister exclaiming; “Where am I?” I hear the herd mates inquiring, echoing one after another.

“Of course I am hearing them, I had already known that; but why are they so shocked and surprised?” I ponder.

“At camp Spirit Horse!” I respond, without a thought, whereupon I hear their breathing calm down and slow to a more comfortable rate.

“Oh, wow!” I ponder; “I managed to calm them down!” I proclaim.

“Of course!” I hear my sister responding; “You know I trust you, I always have!” she concludes.

“Yes, Sis..” I respond; “I know!” I respond. (When did I become the herd Alpha?)

Of course, Camp Spirit Horse means something to them; they had already known what it entails, and what it means. Just that I only know, what I had read in the catalogue.

Naming the herd is one thing, but now I had managed my first point; by calming my herd mates down, when they needed it. I guess it had been natural to me, to respond, when they were asking. Why shouldn’t I? Had it been explained, that I shouldn’t; but I had not heard that, I had missed this explanation if there had indeed been one.

This dream is mirroring real life, coloured by our experiences; even if it is guided, by the mysterious Totem placed over my head. (Over the head of each girl, of my herd; just as it had been placed, over the head of each of the girls at this camp.)

Since I am wearing my bit, and the bit being present in my experience; it is still there, in my dream too. With that, we are all wearing this bit and halter; with everything that comes with it, even if my sister may be the only one aware of this. Should I tell them, should I have told them; but this will simply have to wait, until tomorrow. If indeed I am to tell anyone, explaining the situation. Should I, or should I not?

While the situation may have been confusing, and indeed scary; but once the location had been established, by my pronouncing the fact, the fright simply evaporates like mist in the morning.

Now I am finding myself standing up, barefoot in the wet grass; standing in a bright clearing, both feet in the luscious wild grass. At first, I am alone.

While I am still alone, standing in the luscious grass; I soon notice stands of proud trees, scattered around the clearing. I hear each girl, as if they had been standing next to me; while I can clearly make out the direction of where they are, hidden by just one stand of trees. Each girl, separated from the herd; out of sight, keeping each isolated. Until, that is; I am speaking up, leading them to my location.

While I can hear their voices, as if they had been close by; I also hear their steps, as they are walking in the grass.

I can hear each girl, as they walk around, slowly taking out the direction of my voice; before they find my location, just a few minutes later. The intended illusory trick, losing its power; the instant one realizes where one is, just by calling out to one’s friends.

The first change, had been my ears; I had already changed, and my ears appearing like the once of my accessory placed on top of my head. This had been the first, but only the first of many. I just don’t know what these are, or in which order, or for what reason they will be occurring.

As I can see my sister, her muzzle is already firmly in place; as is my own, and the muzzle of each of the girl in my tribe. Naturally; they are all wearing their bits, even if they no longer are skin tone and thus easy to spot and recognize.

“Whoa!!” the first girl exclaims; “You are wearing a halter and bit!” she concludes.

“Wait, you did not notice before?” my sister inquires.

“No..” the second girl responds; “should I have?” she then inquires.

“This is a dream..” the fourth girl points out; maybe the halter was never on her face, or it may have changed in colour or design?” she suggests.

“It just feels weird..” the third girl puts forth; “to actually be wearing a bit and a halter..” she continues; “as if someone would have crafted a halter, adding a bit that could possibly fit me?” she concludes, somewhat uncertain. (At least; no reins had been added, to this halter.)

“As a herd, wouldn’t we all move towards harmonizing the image of self?” my sister inquires.

“Yes..” the first girl supplies; “I guess; that would be making sense..” she continues; “even when the details just fails to make any sense to me!” she concludes.

It is a dream, it should not be making sense; at least, not all by itself. What if this had been the intent, the purpose of the Totem, each girl had been afforded for the purpose of this camp?

“Someone is clearly identifying with a Horse!” the third girl suggests; “wouldn’t that make these changes make sense?” she inquires.

“This is camp Spirit Horse..” the first girl points out; “we should have an affinity for Horses; why else would we be here, in the first place?” she inquires, in turn.

“Oh, but of course..” I ponder; “wouldn’t that make sense?” I exclaim; “What if this is the explanation; why we could see this camp, this year, Sis?” I whisper.

“Yes, Sis!” my sister responds, snickering in enlightened amusement.

“Little Hooves!” the second girl breathes.

“So we should be trotting around, bare hoofed!” the fourth girl concedes.

“Wouldn’t that be..” the first girl exclaims; “wonderful..” she breathes.

Since we are all bare foot, there is nothing in the way; the next moment, we all find ourselves changing in order to stand on our own two hooves.

“Wonderful..” the first girl exclaims.

Oh, but of course it is. I enjoy feeling the soft grass under my bare hooves; like I had never felt it before, even if the experience is not new to me.

While the change itself is a bit of a surprise; but the feeling of the grass under my bare hooves, is not.

“Uhm..” the first girl puts forth; “why do I have the impression..” she continues; “the two of you had been expecting these, or even experienced it first hand already?” she inquires.

“Would it be all that shocking, to you; if we had indeed experienced this?” my sister inquires.

“Are you confirming, or denying having this experience before?” the third girl inquires, somewhat taken aback by the response.

“This IS Camp: Spirit Horse..” my sister points out; “I did not propose we should all be trotting around bare hoofed for no reason; but because it felt, as if it had been the most natural thing in the world!” she confirms.

“There are Other camps..” the second girl concedes; “but this IS camp: Spirit Horse, as you said..” she continues; “so, maybe we should have been expecting this, after all!” she concludes.

“I am proud to be part of herd Little Hooves!” all the girls chorus as one.

Of course, there would be other events; aside from the camp: Spirit Horse, even if I had failed to find the slightest trace of these in the catalogue. Maybe they were held at other times of the year, or I simply lack the required affinity for these events. Even if my sister had acquired these Crescent Moon boots for the Deer and the cow, aside from the Horse, though. She could have been too young, to partake this year. But, since I had signed up for this camp; she had been accepted, as she is following me to the camp.

While there is no age limit, for partaking in the camp; there is a requirement, for the corresponding affinity.

By the end of this camp; maybe, just maybe I would know what camps there are. If so; I could see if I could harmonize, with the requirements to partake? Somehow, the idea is enticing to me; I feel, as if I should at the very least consider the idea. (At least, hoping there is a camp I would enjoy.)

I feel a strange sensation, a sensation I can not quite put a finger on (or a hoof), it is just growing stronger, with certain events coming. (This is just such event.)

While I had been distracted, my skin had changed; no longer the light pink,, but a pristine white. I have inky black socks, while my hooves curiously enough are a bright red.

I have no fur, as I had been expected; but neither do I have the hairs in certain places, where it had made no sense having it. My mane still remains, almost entirely unchanged; even if the fact that my ears had moved, still places certain restrictions on my mane. (Though my mane does reach all the way down my neck, almost to the point of reaching my back.) For a mane, this would be most reasonable, and quite reasonable. Not that I mind, even if it may feel a bit weird.

Should I have been complaining? Everyone in my herd had been affected in the same way; so at least, I am not standing out. Something, for which I will be eternally grateful. I never really liked to stand out. Even if I may not have put all that much of an effort, into avoiding it. Though I had still accepted the accessories Rarity had offered me, to the effect; and look, where this is taking me. (Yes, Sis; I am at Camp: Spirit Horse, with you.)

On second thought; I do have a pair of nipples, in the place a Mare is expected to have them too. As is all my herd mates, though.

As a Horse, if a very spirited one; all these things are quite natural to me.

As a Horse, I am nude; not giving it a second thought, simply finding it natural. Maybe I could have worn shoes, boots or even a quilt; but we have none of these here, though.

What if, I had had a full set of hooves; but no, that could wait for a while longer.

As a Horse, I also have a tail, matching my mane. A long, full tail, reaching almost all the way down to my hooves. But just almost. Thus, I don’t need to worry, stepping on it, by mistake.

Whether anyone else would recognize my voice, or understanding what I am saying; but everyone in my herd, still do. If I had changed, so had they; we had all experienced exactly the same changes, so we don’t really experience being changed in the first place. (What is up, about that?)

What is up, is the sun; what is down, is the thick and luscious grass we’re trotting over. (Or standing on, when we are standing still.)

<--- --- --->

In the end, I had changed completely. Not that I mind, particularly. (Even if this is a dream, with no bearing on the reality; of the real world, to which I will return as I wake up.)

Of course, I will be waking up; in a few hours, that is. Still; that is neither here, nor there.

Once the final changed had come over me, completing the transformation; I had found myself a Mare, a Horse in company of the rest of her herd. (Well, what a shock!)

I had just rested for a moment, a few minutes at the very most; before I had started to trot forwards, with the rest of my herd in tow. Yes, my herd; I had found myself, the Alpha Mare of the herd after all.

Not to say that I mind, particularly; someone had to take the lead, and I had accepted the responsibility before I had even realized it. (I had been the Master of the change, my changes; choosing exactly when what change were to take hold of me, even if I had not tried to change back.)

Maybe, just maybe; I just enjoy being the Horse too much, to try to change back. If it is the dream, or my personality in charge; but I am still enjoying myself, and the company of my herd. (Shouldn’t I be enjoying myself, and the company of my herd?)

The freedom, the wind in my mane; as I am free to move as I please, knowing my herd will follow without question. (As if there is such a thing as: Question, in the first place!).

If I slow down, I can have a bite of grass, grazing to my heart’s content; just as I can drink the water in the nearest creek at will. Non to ask permission, and none to question me or my decisions at any time.

<--- --- --->

Just in time for when I am to wake up; I stop and change back, leaving only my ears, my muzzle and my hooves in place. Just enough to leave proof of what had happened. Just not more, than I could hold on to, without a second thought. The other girls had followed suit; stopping and changing back right alongside me.

The next moment, I am waking up; knowing they are waking up, as well.

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

A New Day

<--- --- --->

A New Day: 5

<--- --- --->

In a Bit

<--- --- --->

“Page 05: A New Day” I read.

I am flipping the page, falling forwards and down into the narrative in a swift, fluid motion.

“Whoa!” I exclaim, thanking my lucky Star, for being in this secluded location where I don't expect anyone to see me or find out.

I had just woken up, bright and early. The camp-fire is still burning, if yet slowly dying down. It had after all served its purpose, so there is no point in keeping it alive for much longer.

My herd mates are waking up, right alongside me, I can feel it.

It feels strange, as I know my ears had fallen of; but I am fine with it, as none outside of my herd would even pick up on it. Though I guess, they would notice my muzzle. As if they could miss, to pick up on my hooves?

I am just a bit curious, as to how they will be reacting on it; though this is the camp: Spirit Horse, after all.

<--- --- --->

While they are still stirring, I had slipped out of my panties and top from the night before; slipping on a fresh set of panties and top. With the underwear changed, I slip into my daytime wear, such as expected.

There is but the one thing; I have already planned for it, as I had been forewarned. Rarity’s friend Pinkie had known this all along. How she had known, none even bother considering. “Pinkie is being Pinkie..” they say. (Should I blame them? How could I?)

Strangely enough, my old shoes will still fit me (us); even when I am not wearing my boots, I had bought from Rarity.

“Should I put my shoes on, now; or should I wait and see?” I ponder, saying nothing.

On second thought; my sister has already woken up; she is just putting her clothes on for the day. What had I been expecting?

I should stop playing coy, within my herd; they are my herd, after all. It will just take time, overcoming old habits; habits, I had grown up with. What was common sense back home; may not apply here, among these girls now part of my herd. I will just have to get used to it.

“Good morning!” I exclaim.

“Good morning!” my sister responds.

“Good morning!” the other girls echo in turn one after the other.

After some consideration, I am starting to let on; showing what Pinkie had let slip, to everyone in the herd.

While I don’t have anything for them, they will just have to wait until these are given freely; my sister is carrying her own, so I need not worry about her, either.

Since we are outdoors, which the camp is counting as in its entirety; I only packed the Stainless Steel shoes, as did my sister. Oh, and I probably should be thanking Pinkie properly; for what she let slip, once we get home.

“Wait; you already have your own shoes?” the first girl inquires.

“Yes..” I respond; “me too!” my sister fills in.

“I.. I.. I..” the third girl stutters; ”had not expected that..” she continues; “these were never on the list of recommended items, to carry to the camp!” she finally concludes.

“No..” my sister confirms; “they were not even mentioned, on the list of items!” she concludes.

“They never mentioned them..” the second girl inserts; “because you can’t know the size, before you have arrived at the camp!” she points out.

“I could as well confess..” I suggest; “I do have some prior experience!” I concede.

“I love this camp..” my sister agrees; “I can be myself, wearing these shoes at will; no questions asked, without as much as a second glance!” she concludes.

The girls just blink, staring owlishly; not sure what to say, or think.

“Well; this is Camp: Spirit Horse..” the fourth girl points out; “horsing around, is a prerequisite!” she finally concludes.

“Just one small detail..” I put forth; “what happened in that dream, is not limited to the dream..” I suggest; “even if it was a dream, these things actually happened!” I conclude.

“Does that imply??” the second girl inquires; “that you actually wore these halters and bits?” she inquires; “and that we all still are wearing them?” she concludes.

“With all the implications, it carries!” my sister fills in, confirming what she had been fearing or hoping for.

“Does this mean..” the first girl puts forth; “that we can maintain contact, and talk even after the camp?” she inquires.

“I would very much believe so..” I suggest; “at least, within reason..” I continue.

“Since we did enter the train at the same station..” the first girl supplies; “I guess this is a very strong possibility!” she suggests.

Once we had all dressed up for the new day at the camp; we are emerging from our tent, the first herd to exit.

This is the first day at the camp, and we had already established ourselves; not just by claiming the name for our own herd, but we are first out onto the arena as a united herd.

This will be spoken of, for generations to come. The camp is taking two months, on purpose; giving each and every one ample time to finish what we are set out to accomplish here, in order to be recognized.

We had almost past the test, already; barely even out of the tent, our herd tent.

Our families will be proud of us. How could they not? Even if one knows, the family will be proud of all girls; establishing themselves within their respective herds, as adults. Doesn’t matter, if you barely scrape by, so long as you complete the task and pass the test.

What could we possibly do, now; in order to fail this test? One simply does not contemplate this matter, or voice the words. (Lest it may come true, simply out of spite; because you voiced the notion.{Murphy is not forgiving by nature, but is eager and spiteful to a fault.})

“The Spirits favour the Brave, aiding those who helps themselves and strive forwards over these who stray or hang back in Regret and Sorrow!” the third girl supplies.

“One foot (or hoof) before the other..” I ponder, even the greatest journey starts with one small step!” my sister suggests.

“In context..” the first girl suggests; “I think we are going with the hoof, here!” she concludes.

Everyone nods in agreement, as they are looking up to me; following my suggestions, as I am giving them. I can but assume, I had already earned my position, and the trust that comes with it.

With an entire night’s worth of experience; I am leading my herd forwards, as I leave our tent behind. I am being watched, even before the girls of the other herds had even poked their noses out of their respective tents.

“Why can I no longer see these halters?” the first girl inquires.

“Because they were never intended to be seen..” I supply; “but the dream opted to share their presence with the herd..” I suggest.

“Are these a herd secret, then?” she inquires.

“Until proven otherwise, I would assume that is the case!” my sister confirms.

“Then..” the third girl utters; “this secret will remain secret!” she concludes.

Probably for the better, but who is to say? If none speaks, the secret will be contained.

“Dreams have meaning..” I put forth; “we may have to inquire further, at the convenient opportunity!” I conclude.

“Yes..” the first girl responds; “but of course, dreams have meaning!” she confirms.

“It is just a matter of interpreting the dream..” the second girl puts forth; “gleaning its message, and understand the inner truth presented!” she concludes.

“If we all experienced this dream..” I suggest; “it was intended to be shared?” I inquire; “It is just curious, what came out of it; spilling out into the physical realm of our waken minds!” I finally conclude.

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

Facing the Elder

<--- --- --->

Facing the Elder: 6

<--- --- --->

A New Day

<--- --- --->

“Page 06: Facing the Elder” I read.

I am flipping the page, falling forwards and down into the narrative in a swift, fluid motion.

“Whoa!” I exclaim, thanking my lucky Star, for being in this secluded location where I don't expect anyone to see me or find out.

<--- --- --->

I had been chosen unanimously, to face the elder for the herd. I could but accept the honour they had bestowed upon me, for what it is worth. (When you earn the honour; you step up!)

With the herd behind me, I am trotting along the path from my tend; over to the position by the fire, where the Elder is already waiting. (Had he known, or had he been informed?)

If I had not taken the halter off of me before, it certainly is too late now. While the original ears had fallen off, replaced by my new equine ears; I can no longer take these off, as if they had been an accessory. I could have chosen, to retract them; in favour of my original, human ears. The only problem; being that it would be akin to spit in the face of the Elder, before the entire tribe. I could not do that, not now; when I know, everyone had already seen it, or at least the elder knows.

How, who cares? I could as well ask Pinkie, how she is performing what she is doing. What’s the point? Not even she would say, even if she knew.

Some things, simply are not meant to be known, let alone to be shared.

<--- --- --->

My herd is cheering me on, waiting for me to see the Elder. A great honour, a Most Great Honour, indeed. Just to wait, from afar, is an honour in and of itself. Not meant for everyone, to experience in a lifetime.

I am trotting along the path, the grass under-hoof as I enjoy the short jaunt.

The pleasure, clearly showing on my face, as I casually trot over to the spot beside the fire.

They all hear, what I hear; while I hear, everything they hear. I had known it, at least since when it had been revealed; in the dream we had shared, the other night. It had been an experience, sharing everything with my nascent herd.

“Clip clop, clip clop..” is heard, as I am trotting along the path.

I reverently stop, three steps before the Elder. The Elder is the Elder, I am not. I show deference to the elevated position, as is due.

This elder is not just old and honoured; it is a position, earned from the wisdom shared with the tribe for the good of everyone of the tribe. A most revered position, and the greatest of honour to hold. If meeting the Elder is a rare honour, it is exactly nothing compared with being the one actually holding the position.

After a moment, maybe a minute; I feel an impulse calling out, and I finally rise to my hooves and take a step forwards. How did I know? I have no idea, but I acted upon it all the same.

“Welcome, to the position beside me..” the Elder prompts, in a low voice.

I merely look up, waiting; the time has no meaning, it is what comes out of the meeting that makes it all worth it in the end.

“I see you..” the Elder proclaims; “Most impressive..” he then continues.

“I see you..” I merely respond, waiting for further inspiration.

“Alpha of herd: Little Hooves, you lead your herd well!” he commends me.

“Thank you, Elder..” I respond, “it just felt natural!” I conclude.

“You honour the camp of Spirit Horse, with your presence..” he prompts; “you even guided your inner Equine out of the dream realm provided!” he acknowledges.

“Yes, Elder..” I respond; “I did!” I conclude, ears perking up while facing forwards.

“I hear the spirit of the Horse in you, speaking to me!” he proclaims, in excitement.

“The dream..” I utter; “is real!” I conclude.

“You met your Spirit, your inner equine in the dream..” he suggests; “and one such as you, already acquainted with the spirit of the horse?” he inquires.

“The spirit of the horse called out to me, summoned me..” I suggest; “urged me, to partake in the camp!” I continue.

“Wait?” he utters; “the Spirit summoned you?” he inquires.

“How else to put it?” I inquire; “I may be here, but I can feel the spirits in the air..” I probe; “I certainly am not here by chance, I was summoned!” I put forth.

“While I did not see your hooves, when you stepped off of the train; yet you trot, as if you have experience!” he points out.

“I can not deny it..” I merely respond; “how could I?” I inquire; “You heard of my sister, suggesting the path should be traveled bare hoof?” I inquire.

“I did..” he responds; “thus Little Hooves!” he confirms.

Snickers are heard on the air, followed by neighs and whinnies. I heard it all, I had indeed heard it. My ears clearly showing, as I am reacting to what is being said.

Time is lapsing, while I am listening to the Spirits; knowing the elder is being spoken to, listening to the spirits taking an interest in this camp activity.

Wait, had I drawn the attention of the Spirits to me (my herd)? Well, they are here, now. Since I am hearing them, the rest of my herd is also hearing them. I feel their eyes resting upon me, from where they are watching me.

“Whoa..” my sister exclaims; “I hear the Spirits!” she concludes.

“We all hear them, loud and clear!” the first girl confirms.

The spirit speaks with the voice of my Mother, and my Father..” I suggest; “do you hear your Ancestors too?” I inquire.

I hear an audible gasp, as I am mentioning the ancestors; “That had not been expected..” I realize.

The Elder is taken aback, by one such as I; that alone is a shock, I had not been prepared for.

I am looking up, at a loss for what to say and how to react.

“Stop, right there..” he exclaim; “you are going too far, too fast!” he whispers; “while it is indeed true..” he confirms; but this is far too early, for one such as you to even ponder!” he whispers.

One could have accused me for suggesting something, I had not known or realized the depth of what I was saying; but I had still said, what I had felt to be true. To shock an Elder, is a rare occasion; particularly, in a meeting such as the one I had been called to partake in.

“It is a bit much, to take in..” hearing you speak of such things, in such certain terms as if it had been old news!” the Elder supplies.

<--- --- --->

I had enjoyed talking to the Elder of our tribe. Yet, the meeting had come to an end, just as it had to; all things come to an end, there is no other way. Yet, this had been a productive and uplifting experience. Sharing this with my herd honours my herd and its members equally.

“Imagine that..” my sister exclaims; “you spoke to our Elder!” she concludes.

“We heard you, Alpha!” they all chorus.

“I guess; that should have been expected, even if I guess I am guilty of permitting you to hear the conversation!” I put forth.

“Oh..” the first girl supplies; “how so?” she inquires.

“My sister and I crafted these halters..” I explain; “just as my sister and I chose to wear them, at the camp!” I conclude.

“They are so natural, to us; we did not even consider them, when we stepped onto the train taking us here..” my sister explains.

“Wait..” the second girl inquires; “you didn’t?” she continues.

“No, why?” my sister inquires; “Why? We had already grown so used to them..” she continues; “we did not notice them, more than we notice our panties!” she concludes.

“Oh!” the fourth girl exclaims.

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

A Crescent Moon

<--- --- --->

A Crescent Moon: 7

<--- --- --->

Facing the Elder

<--- --- --->

“Page 07: A Crescent Moon” I read.

I am flipping the page, falling forwards and down into the narrative in a swift, fluid motion.

“Whoa!” I exclaim, thanking my lucky Star, for being in this secluded location where I don't expect anyone to see me or find out.

<--- --- --->

Incidentally, I did pack a second pair of shoes; standard Stainless Steel, Crescent Moon shoes.

Let’s have some fun, trying something out; before we continue with the activities of the camp, I do have something to show you!” I offer.

The girls follow me back, into our tent.

“What is it, what is it?” the girls chant, in chorus, eager and excited to see what I intend to show them.

“If you all gained these halters, enabling you to speak to us over distances; maybe you picked up something more..” my sister suggests.

“Oh..” the first girl exclaims; “but since we did hear your conversation with the Elder; that is actually quite possible!” she concludes.

I extract a pair of shoes, identical to the once I am currently wearing; offering the first girl to try them on, before she is to extend the offer to each of the girls in my herd.

The girl accepts the shoes, slipping them on finding the shoes a perfect fit, before she is slipping the shoes off for the next girl in line to try. Each of the girls have a go, trying the shoes on; passing the chance to the next in line, only to realize that they all are the exact same size and thus a perfect match.

“Ooh’s” and “Aah’s” are heard, as the shoe-testing is progressing.

“Oh, but wait..” my sister exclaims, as something is hitting her; “You should check your back packs..” my sister points out.

More “Ooh’s” and "Aah’s” are being heard, as they open their back packs, only to find a pair of shoes of their own.

While I had not placed these shoes in their back packs, I would suspect Pinkie Pie had prompted Rarity to arrange for Twilight to teleport these shoes, for them.

“I know I did not pack any shoes with me..” the first girl exclaims; “and you could not have done it either!” she points out.

“Maybe the Spirits gave the shoes to us?” the third girl suggests.

<--- --- --->

“It is time, to go out and face the day..” I proclaim, leading my herd out of the tent and towards where our breakfast is being served.

The other girls of my herd eagerly nods, in consent; “Yes” they chorus, as one. (Just in highly equine: Neighs, whinnies and snickers.)

While my sister may be the youngest, in the herd, she is on my right; even if I may not be the oldest, I had become the Alpha. How and why, at least I do have a few guesses.

Naturally; the rest of the girls follow me out of the tent of our herd, in the order of our herd. If any of the other girls see us, they will hear nothing but the: Neighs, whinnies and snickers; as if they had been listening to the next Horse, in the pasture. What none is prepared to deny, as they see us; is that we already sport the ears on top of our heads, the muzzle and trot on shoed hooves. I guess the curious side-glances are in order, not to be denied; whether they are envious, or just wish they had their own hooves is up in the air. (Who cares?)

Oh, well; maybe they can hear the Spirits, in time? If so, maybe they can live up to the name of this Camp: Camp; Spirit Horse. Oh, well, not my problem; I’m already the Horse, the Alpha of my herd. (..and I will be enjoying the rest of the camp, for all it is worth!)

But first, breakfast. I’m hungry. (Who isn’t?)

I just lead my herd to the camp fire, where the food had already been prepared.

I ignore the question, permitting the food speak for itself. Why waste the time, pondering what is to be served; when the breakfast is to be served, in just a few minutes. I’m only waiting for the time it takes to trot over from our tent. (Our Herd tend, of herd: little hooves.)

“Smells delicious!” I hear the second girl ponder.

“The scent is divine!” my sister responds, snickering. (Well-prepared food, as in breakfast; long awaited!)

“I guess: she just could not help herself?” I ponder, quietly.

I continue to trot over to the camp-fire, with my herd in tow; only to be greeted by the Elder himself, as well as his companion. (Well, what had been expected?) I can only guess: they are hungry, after a long night. As am I.

“Greetings, Alpha Little Hooves..” he exclaims, “I see you!” she concludes.

“Greetings, Elder..” I respond; “I see you!” I conclude.

“The breakfast is prepared..” his companion puts forth; “awaiting your participation, Little Hooves!” she concludes, leading us to the first spot before the camp-fire.

I guess I had been the first up, trotting over to the camp-fire; but still, I am honoured to have this spot. (It is a sign, of the prestige, the honour I had already gained at the Camp.) As is my herd, now sitting beside me; enjoying the meal prepared for us.

This is the first breakfast in the camp. This meal had been intended to be enjoyed together, as a group. Question is: will everyone be up and ready, in time to be enjoying it as a group.

“Eating like a Horse!” I suggest, and my herd is snickering at what I had just said.

“We do have time, so we can eat slow..” my sister suggests; “the food is before us; it isn’t, as if it is going anywhere..” she suggests.

At that, the Elder is chuckling; as he sees the deeper understanding of the expression, in context. His Companion is expressing her mirth and merriment with us.

Of course, the next herd soon steps out of their tent; moving over to the camp-fire, in companion union. I notice how they are walking slowly, as if they had not quite woken up, only hunger driving them forth from the tent.

The Elder and his Companion are creating them, as is due; only for the herd to greet them in return. Anything else would have been utterly unthinkable.

No porridge, thankfully. However; we do get a fairly rich spread of the local, traditional vegetables the Tribe is priding itself of. They have cultivated these vegetables with great pride, producing the produce they can enjoy.

While I imagine this tribe is not strictly vegetarian; but the Camp itself, still require to serve a wealth of the finest vegetables, all the same. This is after all, Camp: Spirit Horse.

Once the participants of the camp, herd by herd is exiting their respective tents and walking towards the camp-fire, they soon notice us and the elevated position I am holding as the Alpha of my herd. Of course, it is inevitable; everyone will be noticing it, soon enough. (I will just have to get used to this, together with my herd.)

As much as they may wish they were eating by this table, and that the position had been theirs; but it is obvious to any and all, that I had earned the spot. Making a move on me, at this point; would only shame them, removing them from the competition entirely. This camp is not about the competition, or the position; it is all about the Spirit of the Horse within, and enjoying the freedom in the union. One can only see the spirit of the Horse, if one is actively focusing on the Spirit in the first place; as the competition and rivalry only serves as a distraction, in this pursuit.

I had started ahead of the pack, only due to the preparations I had done with my sister before I had even learned of the camp in the first place. I can only imagine, the spirit had been looking for me; offering me the chance to attend the camp, in the first place. Not that I will complain. I had enjoyed the preparations; even if I had not realized, that I was preparing for something more than the fleeting fun with my sister, in the first place. (Maybe, just maybe; that is why I had been enjoying it so much, I had even applied for a place on the Camp in the first place.) I had enjoyed every moment of that, back then; not as if I am regretting it now, or ever will be. (Why? I had enjoyed the time spent with my sister immensely. {The little investment I had put into it, had paid off even before I had even realized it; aside from what it is doing for my relation with my sister, as well.} I can’t see, how any of this, could even get in the way of what I want; or where I want to go, either.)

<--- --- --->

I had enjoyed the food, quite Royally.

The breakfast could have been served, at a Five star Hotel and I would still have found it opulent for the place.

I am sure, everyone had been enjoying the breakfast. I had. Just as I have an impression, so had the Elder and his Companion. Well, why shouldn’t they?

Even if they are used to eating outdoors, around a camp-fire no less. Still. This had been very enjoyable.

On the other rubbery hoof; the meal had come to an end. (Just as it had to, we all knew that.)

Only once I had finished the meal, I sit and enjoy the moment with the herd.

I, we have nothing better to do; so we sit and wait, until everyone had finished their breakfast. (What’s the hurry, anyway?)

<--- --- --->

The elder had just announced the upcoming activity: a full day’s hike. (Sounds rather exciting, to me.)

We had returned to our tent, as had everyone else; fetching a small, light backpack. I had opted to include two bottles of water and a sharp knife. (Keeping a little water on hand is not heavy, unless you have already packed too much else already.)

Each of us takes the responsibility to pick one aspect of what we need for the hike, aside from a few personal items required for the hike. (This is just the first hiking adventure, we will be enjoying at the camp; what the next hike’s theme will be, I have no idea as of yet. I will learn, soon enough; thus there is no point, in worrying about it!)

<--- --- --->

Pass: From one, to another; a Lavender Camp.

Taking a Hike

<--- --- --->