[PHASE THREE] - Her Spirit Renewed

Time passed so quickly together, Ale couldn’t believe how many days had gone by since the first dreadful event. Things hadn't ceased entirely, but Pepper’s days of pricey vet bills and ripped up trailers and stalls were over. Progress was slow, but steady. 

“Good morning, Pepper,” Ale smiled and unhooked the stall rope, picking up her treat ball quickly. Her stall toys played a significant role in Pepper's improvement. Ale had theorized that Pepper’s past had a mental effect on her, causing her irrational restlessness and boredom. After being left alone in a run down pasture, Pepper didn't have much ambition. She was sweet at heart, but required clear goals and interaction with her handler. Ale worked on first introducing her to new spaces and then giving her access to further training. The stall toys were a way for Pepper to remain content in her stall until turnout and daily activities. On a rotation, toys would have various cognitive problem solving, such as the shape ball that was present today. Pepper would have to nudge the ball around, guiding the treats to a hole that was big enough to let them through; something she enjoyed.

 “I’ll get your breakfast and refill your toy for tonight.” Pepper’s ears swiveled at the thought of more treats, excitedly waiting for what was to come. Her adjustment to Mistveil was quick. She became accustomed to the daily schedule, enjoying the nice sunshine and her pasture pals. Afternoons meant new, exciting work and activities. Being located on an island also meant lots of trail riding and traveling. It was a long walk to get back to the mainland, including a short boat ride from the outside island ring. Although strange for a horse, Pepper enjoyed these trips, allowing Ale to take her to special locations for fun. 

Today was a special day. Unknown to Pepper, today would be the first official competition for her. Due to Pepper’s condition, Ale worked with her under various disciplines. Pepper seemed to enjoy all of them, learning how to pace herself over poles and dance in the arena. The long-term goal would be to train with Pepper for eventing, allowing her to find her passion in multiple ways. Dressage was Pepper’s top priority for now, and this evening would be her first opportunity to show off what she's learned. 

“We’re going for a trip today, Pepper!” Ale smiled and dropped off the grain and carrots into her feeder. Pepper munched happily as Ale walked over to the tack room. She picked out a matching tack set with white wraps and saddlepads. Pepper seemed to like fluffy things, so a soft halfpad was added on top. This event, while a true competition, was more casual and allowed the pair to not be as stressed about formalities. Closing the tack box softly, she carried it to their truck and returned to Pepper. The mare was already finished and ready to go. Traveling with her seemed like such a breeze. 

The trailer windows were cracked, letting the cool ocean salt smell reach Pepper. She calmly relaxed in her stall, anticipating the future throughout their journey. 

The actual arena was gorgeous, sporting nice light sand and pretty scenery. The sun was beginning to set, dipping the sky in many shades of pink. Pepper took in the area, watching and listening to the bustling around her. Many handlers were there, grooming their horses endlessly to look their best. Families and locals were huddled around, getting ready to watch the event. Suddenly, loud voices on the speaker started up, instructing everyone in different ways. The first competitor went up and performed so beautifully. Pepper watched eagerly, recognizing the different moves that she had also learned. Before long, it was her turn to go; she entered the arena a little quickly but pulled herself together and completed a perfect run. Crowds were cheering, and the vibe was amazing. Anything that Pepper did was incomparable to her lonely pasture. It was all so beautiful and full of joy. Every new moment was priceless. She exited the arena and stood quietly as the rest of the competitors went. The anxious waiting made minutes feel like seconds. 

“We are ready to announce the winners!” The crinkly speaker voice said aloud. “Please give a warm congratulations to Ale and Pepper!” As a horse, Pepper did not understand at first what was occurring. Even so, she felt immense happiness as she was brought her ribbon and flowers. This day really solidified Ale’s thoughts. Pepper wanted to be loved and have an eventful life. She wanted to do something with her time, rather than just be a lawnmower. 

“You did it, Pepper! You did such a good job!” Ale dismounted and walked her precious horse into the local stable to untack her. Gently removing the tack, she brushed away the sweat and dirt Pepper had collected from the arena. Pepper enjoyed every second with Ale, soaking in the attention. This competition was only the beginning for her journey, and while she didn't quite understand, the future was so bright for her. 

Back at their own facility, Ale happily added Pepper’s first place to the stall string. She now had two ribbons, one from a little mock competition and one from today. It was weird thinking about the condition that Pepper arrived in. She had ruined one pasture, one trailer, one stall, and an insane amount of hay bags (small thin twin was a favorite to destroy). Upon general work with her and allowing her stimulating cognitive opportunities, Pepper stopped destroying everything in her wake. Ale knew that Pepper was a special loshenka, and even though many improvements had been made, their work together was nowhere near being finished. Pepper was here to stay.