Chapter 2: Training Grounds

The afternoon sun was warm but bearable as Mistress Tara led Stardust and Sunbeam out into the open fields adjacent to the barn. The expanse was dotted with various training setups, each designed for different aspects of pony play. Stardust felt a mix of anticipation and nervousness; although she was still settling into her new role, the environment was supportive and intriguing.

Mistress Tara stopped at a large, circular track lined with small hurdles and cones. “We’ll start with some basic trotting exercises,” she explained, her voice firm but encouraging. “It’s about grace and control, not just speed. Watch Sunbeam first.”

Sunbeam, more experienced and visibly at ease, moved effortlessly through the course, her movements fluid and precise. Stardust watched intently, the sight instilling both awe and concern within her.

“Now, your turn, Stardust,” Tara said, unclipping the lead from her bridle. “Just a light trot. I want you to focus on your posture and the rhythm of your steps.”

Stardust nodded, feeling the weight of Tara’s trust in her hands. She took a deep breath and started into a trot, her hoof boots thumping softly against the grassy ground. Her first few strides were clumsy, her body not yet accustomed to the constraints of the harness and the boots. But as she rounded the first cone, the rhythm began to find her, each step growing more confident.

Mistress Tara followed alongside, offering pointers. “Lift your knees a bit more. Good. Keep your back straight—excellent.” Her voice was a constant guide, steering Stardust through the physical and mental barriers she faced.

After several rounds, they moved on to the next exercise: pulling a light cart. This was a step up in complexity, requiring not just physical effort but coordination and a deeper trust in Tara’s commands.

“The cart will feel strange at first,” Tara cautioned as she helped Stardust into the traces. “It’s about balance and steady pacing. You’re strong enough for this; trust in yourself.”

The cart was a simple two-wheeled affair, elegant and light, but to Stardust, it felt like a significant burden. Tara attached a set of reins to Stardust’s bridle and climbed aboard, her presence in the cart adding weight but also comfort. “Let’s go, nice and easy,” she directed.

The initial pull was harder than Stardust anticipated. The cart jolted slightly as she found her footing and began to move forward. The path they took wound around another part of the estate, lined with flowering bushes and the occasional shade tree, providing a scenic backdrop to their efforts.

As they continued, Stardust’s confidence began to build. The cart’s weight became less of an obstacle and more of a companion in her dance across the fields. Tara’s commands were clear and supportive, guiding her through turns and stops.

“Very good, Stardust! You’re doing beautifully,” Tara praised, her words boosting Stardust’s spirits. They completed several laps, and with each, Stardust felt less like a novice and more like a part of the intricate dance of ponyplay.

The training session evolved through the afternoon, incorporating more complex maneuvers and even some playful challenges that had Stardust weaving through intricate patterns of cones and barriers, designed to test her agility and response to Tara’s subtle cues.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the field, they concluded their training. Exhausted but exhilarated, Stardust had transformed in just a few hours from a bundle of nerves to a more confident and relaxed participant in her chosen role.

Mistress Tara led her back towards the barn, her hand resting lightly on Stardust’s back. “You’ve done exceptionally well today, Stardust. I’m proud of you.”

The day’s experiences had woven a new persona of Kelly’s life as Stardust. She felt a sense of accomplishment and belonging that she hadn’t imagined possible that morning. As they reached the barn and the lead was finally unclipped, Stardust knew she had found a new home—not just in this space, but within herself.

As the sun began its descent, casting a golden glow over the fields, Mistress Tara led Stardust and Sunbeam back to the barn. There was a sense of accomplishment in Kelly, but also a soothing calm as the day’s activities drew to a close.

“Let’s get you out of this tack,” Tara said, starting to unfasten the harness on Stardust. As she worked the straps, she revealed something that made Kelly’s heart skip a beat. “Sara provided your measurements a couple of months ago and paid for all of this custom gear—the tack and boots. She wanted everything to be perfect for you.”

Kelly was stunned, her eyes wide as she processed Tara’s words. The care and thought Sara had put into this was overwhelming. As the last pieces of the harness slipped away, and her boots were carefully removed, Kelly felt a rush of emotions—gratitude and affection toward Sara.

“Now, why don’t you two head over to the shower? I’ll take care of everything here,” Tara suggested with a knowing smile, gesturing towards the pony barn which was equipped with a small but functional shower area designed for after-training cleanup.

Kelly and Sara, now free from their gear, walked together to the barn’s shower. The warm water was a relief on their muscles, and the act of washing each other was both an intimate and cleansing ritual, washing away the remnants of their physical exertion and symbolically marking the end of their day’s journey into their roles.

As the steam filled the air, Sara broke the silence. “I wanted your first experience to be perfect. I knew if you had gear that fit well and felt right, you’d be able to really let go and immerse yourself in the experience,” she explained softly, her hands gently scrubbing Kelly’s back.

Kelly turned to face Sara, her expression softening. “Thank you, Sara. Today ... it was incredible. I felt so many things—scared, excited, powerful. I didn’t know I could feel all that at once.”

Sara smiled, rinsing off a layer of soap with a gentle spray of water. “That’s what it’s all about. Finding parts of yourself you never knew existed. I saw you out there, Stardust. You were amazing.”

Dressed and feeling refreshed, they made their way back to Sara’s car. The drive home was filled with light conversation, rehashing moments from the day, and planning for future events. When they arrived, the warmth of home enveloped them.

Daisy and Chrissy were eager to hear about their day. As they all gathered in the living room, Kelly and Sara shared their experiences, careful to keep the details age-appropriate. Sara spoke of Kelly’s bravery and how she took to the training, while Kelly shared how supportive Sara had been.

Chrissy, ever curious, asked, “Can I see the boots sometime?” Her eyes sparkled with the thrill of the secret world her mother and Kelly shared.

“Yes, one day when we go to the next family munch,” Sara replied with a wink. Daisy, a bit more reserved, simply hugged Kelly, glad to see her so happy and animated.

The evening wound down with laughter and shared stories, the bonds between them deepened not just by shared secrets, but by shared lives and mutual support. Kelly felt truly part of a family—a family that embraced all parts of her, Stardust included.

The Community Munch

A month after Kelly’s transformative training session, the anticipation was palpable as they approached the venue for the community munch. The event was special, designed to include families and allow older children to participate in pony play activities under supervision. The clear, sunny day was perfect for the occasion, with banners fluttering in the breeze and the sound of laughter and chatter filling the air.

The morning sun filtered through the curtains as the house buzzed with excitement. Sara was in the kitchen, preparing a quick breakfast, while Kelly, Daisy, and Chrissy gathered their gear for the day. The air was filled with the clatter of dishes and the chatter of anticipation.

“Can you double-check that we have all the gear packed? I don’t want to forget anything,” Sara called out to Kelly, who was overseeing the packing.

“Already on it!” Kelly responded, rifling through the bags. “Harnesses, boots, bridles ... Looks like we’re all set!”

Daisy bounced into the room; her energy palpable. “I’m so excited to be Butterscotch today! Chrissy, are you ready to race as Applejack?”

Chrissy grinned, tying her shoelaces. “Oh, I’m ready! I’m going to zoom past everyone!”

Kelly laughed, handing them their pony play kits in a gym bag. “Just remember, it’s all in good fun. Winning is great, but let’s make sure we enjoy ourselves and learn something new, okay?”

“Okay!” the girls chorused; their enthusiasm undimmed.

In the Car

As Sara drove towards the venue, the car was abuzz with excitement. The windows were down, letting in the fresh air and the sound of the wind mingling with their voices.

“Mom, will there be a lot of kids there?” Daisy asked, looking out the window.

“There should be a good turnout. Many families enjoy these events because they’re fun and safe for everyone,” Sara explained, her eyes on the road.

Chrissy piped up, “Kelly, did you ever think you’d be doing something like this when you met Mom?”

Kelly smiled, recalling her first foray into the community. “Honestly, no. But I’ve found so much joy and friendship here. It’s a special thing we share, isn’t it?”

“It really is,” Sara added warmly. “I love that we can share this part of our lives with you now.”

Arrival at the Event

Pulling into the estate, the sight of banners and the sound of music created a carnival-like atmosphere. The girls pressed their faces against the car windows, their eyes wide with delight.

“We’re here!” Daisy exclaimed as they parked the car.

Chrissy’s excitement bubbled over as she unbuckled her seatbelt. “Look at all the ponies! And the obstacle course!”

As they got out of the car, the girls took in the bustling scene—families gathering, laughter echoing, and participants in colorful gear milling about. Sara gathered them close for a quick pep talk.

“Remember, today is about fun and learning. Support each other, and let’s show everyone what a great team we are.”

Daisy and Chrissy nodded eagerly; their nerves mixed with excitement. Kelly watched them, her heart swelling with pride. She felt deeply connected to Sara and the girls, grateful for the shared experiences that had brought them so close.

“Let’s go have some fun,” Kelly said with an encouraging smile, watching as the girls, bubbling with excitement, hopped out of the car almost before it had fully stopped. They were eager to join the festivities, their eyes scanning the crowd for friends and the day’s activities.

“Whoa there, hold on a second, girls!” Sara called out to them as they started toward the event. “Remember your gear and make sure you’re wearing your swimsuits under your tack, okay? It’s required.”

“Right, our gear!” Chrissy exclaimed, jogging back to the car. Daisy followed, both retrieving their bags from the trunk.

“Thanks, Mom! Almost forgot,” Daisy and Chrissy paused, a brief moment of disappointment flickering across their faces as they remembered the protocol and turned back to grab their bags from the trunk.

Sara and Kelly quickly gathered their own gear, ensuring everything was accounted for. Once all the bags were collected, Sara double-checked the car to make sure it was locked and that nothing essential was left behind.

The family regrouped, each carrying their customized pony gear. Daisy and Chrissy wore one-piece bathing suits under their casual clothes, as per the guidelines for minors participating in the event. This was to ensure modesty and comfort as they donned the various harnesses and decorative elements of their pony personas.

“All set?” Sara asked, her voice a mix of motherly care and co-conspirator in adventure.

“Ready!” both girls responded, now fully equipped to start their transformation into Butterscotch and Applejack.

Together, they walked towards the registration area, passing other families and participants. The atmosphere was festive, with music playing in the background and the sounds of laughter and excited chatter filling the air. Vendors lined the path, selling everything from custom tack and costumes to snacks and refreshments.

As they walked, Kelly leaned over to Sara, whispering, “It’s amazing how inclusive and fun these events are. It’s like a whole other world.”

Sara nodded, her eyes scanning the crowd with a content smile. “It’s important for everyone to feel welcome and safe. Plus, it’s great for the kids to see a community in action, respecting each other’s interests and boundaries.”

They reached the changing area, where Daisy and Chrissy quickly found their trainer, Mr. Green, “Good to see you all! Ready to turn into beautiful ponies?”

“Yes, Mr. Green!” they eagerly replied, their earlier impatience replaced by a focused enthusiasm.

“Butterscotch, Applejack, you’re just in time for a quick warm-up before we start the events,” he said, ushering the girls toward a small, enclosed area where other children were gathering, all dressed similarly in colorful, playful tack.

Sara gave Kelly a satisfied look, whispering, “It’s going to be a great day,” her voice full of pride and excitement.

Kelly nodded, watching Daisy and Chrissy join the group, their earlier nerves now transformed into eager anticipation. “Yes, it really is,” she agreed, feeling a sense of belonging and happiness wash over her as they all settled in to enjoy the day ahead.

Kelly and Sara set their bags on a table next to the empty bags belonging to Daisy and Chrissy and headed out to the stands to watch the girls train and prepare to compete.

Morning Events: Children’s Training and Race

As Daisy and Chrissy, now fully transformed into their pony personas Butterscotch and Applejack, took their places on the training grounds, Sara and Kelly found seats in the stands. The field was abuzz with the energy of young participants and the focused attention of family and friends in the audience.

The morning sun cast a perfect light over the grounds as Mr. Green began the warm-up session. “Let’s start with some dressage moves to get into the rhythm,” he called out to the group, his voice carrying over the field. The kids lined up, and Daisy and Chrissy, with their distinctive gear, began to execute a series of precise, elegant moves. They moved with fluid grace, practicing high-stepping and controlled movements that mirrored classical dressage.

“Look at them go!” Kelly remarked, her eyes tracking Daisy and Chrissy. “They really look the part, don’t they?”