Chapter 4

New Heights and Fresh Anxieties

Maeve’s phone buzzed with an incoming text, and she glanced down to see Mariah’s name flash across the screen.

“Starfire’s win means a spot at Nationals! Dallas in four weeks. Since you’ll be competing blindfolded, I’ll start training you that way. We’ll also keep you in the mask to preserve anonymity. Let’s chat in person soon.”

Maeve’s stomach sank as she read the message. While she was proud of winning regionals, the thought of competing on a national stage made her pulse quicken with anxiety. She hadn’t anticipated the competition progressing to this level, and she felt a mix of excitement and dread at the prospect.

The next morning, after completing her early workout and breakfast routine, Maeve went to find Mr. Lawson. Spotting him near the barn, she approached him with a determined stride, steeling herself for the conversation.

As she spotted Mr. Lawson near the barn, Maeve steadied herself. “Mr. Lawson, I heard about Nationals. But ... I didn’t realize winning at Regionals would mean competing on a national level,” she began, her tone both cautious and resolute. “And with a commitment like this, I feel I’d need to negotiate a bit.”

Mr. Lawson met her gaze with a mixture of patience and understanding. “Maeve, competing at Nationals is a significant opportunity for you. It’s rare for someone so new to training to advance this far, and you’ll be up against the best. I believe you’re ready—but if you’re concerned about the time and effort, let’s talk about what you need to feel fully prepared.”

Taking a deep breath, Maeve voiced her thoughts. “If I’m going to invest the time, including extended training and traveling, I’d like to negotiate splitting the purse at Nationals as well. I’d also need to know that I’ll keep my current living arrangements here until after the competition so I can fully focus.”

Mr. Lawson considered her words, nodding. “I can agree to that, Maeve. We’ll continue as we have been, and the purse split from Nationals will be the same arrangement as Regionals. I’ll extend your room in the barn until after Nationals so you can maintain your training schedule.”

Relieved, Maeve nodded in agreement. “Thank you. I’ll give it everything I’ve got.”

That evening, Maeve sent a quick message to her roommate, Kayla: “Hey, Kayla! Just letting you know; that my work-study program has been extended another four weeks. I’ll also be traveling to Dallas to assist in a national competition for part of it, so I’ll be away for about a week to ten days in October. I should be back in about 5-6 weeks.”

Kayla texted back almost instantly: “You and this fancy ‘internship’! No worries; it’s giving me full reign of the room, so enjoy your Dallas trip and keep me posted!”

Maeve smiled at her roommate’s response, her thoughts turning back to the training ahead. Nationals was just four weeks away.

Maeve took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the challenge. “Four weeks,” she thought to herself. I can do this ... right?

Meeting the Examiner

The day after the competition, Maeve was up before dawn, her usual morning routine of an enema, shower, and breakfast of pony feed already setting her mind on the busy day ahead. Her encounter with the examiner meant she’d need to keep up appearances. Mr. Lawson suggested she leave the farm for a short while to prevent any suspicion, so she quickly dressed and drove off the property.

At 8:00 a.m. sharp, Maeve re-entered the farm alongside the examiner’s car. Mr. Lawson greeted them both and introduced Maeve as “our dedicated trainee.” The examiner, a tall woman with a sharp, yet warm demeanor, gave Maeve a polite nod. “I’ve reviewed the records Mr. Lawson submitted, and it seems you’re quite a promising trainee, Maeve. Let’s see how you do with the full assessment.”

As they entered the training arena, Maeve was introduced as a trainee with a solid grasp of ponygirl training protocols. “Maeve’s been training rigorously,” Mr. Lawson explained. “She’s focused on observing and guiding ponies through proper form, timing, and endurance.”

The examiner nodded approvingly. “Alright, Maeve, let’s see how you work with a pony.”

With Nadia as her “test” pony, Maeve began her demonstration. She directed Nadia through warm-up routines, emphasizing posture and fluidity as Mariah had drilled into her. The examiner observed each step as Maeve adjusted Nadia’s positioning, signaled transitions, and guided her to maintain rhythm and pace through more complex maneuvers.

Each section of the evaluation was an opportunity for Maeve to apply her knowledge. The examiner watched carefully as Maeve adapted commands to maintain Nadia’s form, corrected minor missteps, and coordinated Nadia’s movement through the final paces.

By the end of the assessment, the examiner gave a slight, approving smile. “Very well done, Maeve. I see precision and control in your guidance, which is essential in training ponies for competitive work. I look forward to seeing how you might work with a pony of your own in the future.”

Maeve thanked the examiner, proud of her performance. Mr. Lawson congratulated her privately, commending her flawless assessment and she felt another wave of accomplishment. Being one of the youngest to achieve certification with zero errors was just the encouragement she needed to push herself for Nationals.

Alex’s Involvement and Preparations for Dallas

Afterward, Maeve met up with Mariah to discuss a plan she’d been considering since the close call with Alex. She knew the extra support would ease her nerves, and with Mariah’s approval, Alex could officially join them as her groom.

As they settled into the tack room, Maeve admitted, “There’s something you should know. Alex and I know each other from school. We met in a study group, and ... she knows the whole story. She’s already proven she can keep a secret.”

Mariah raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “And you’re sure she can handle the demands of being a groom in Dallas?”

Maeve nodded. “Absolutely. I trust her. And I’ll be more comfortable with her there as a familiar face.”

With Mariah’s support, they finalized Alex’s role as her groom. Alex would accompany them to Nationals, helping Maeve stay grounded while Mariah focused on her duties as a trainer. It was an unexpected, but welcome relief for Maeve.

Blindfold Training for Nationals

The following morning now that the certification training was over, Maeve’s new training schedule kicked into high gear. Mariah had adapted their regimen to include blindfold training. Starting slow, Mariah would lead Maeve through each drill, gradually increasing speed and complexity while reinforcing her trust in the commands and signals alone.

The first few sessions proved challenging, the world around Maeve was reduced to the rustle of grass, Mariah’s voice, and the soft clink of tack. She had to rely entirely on her instincts and trust in Mariah, blocking out all distractions to focus on the rhythm and timing of the commands.

Maeve had just finished a particularly demanding drill when Mariah pulled her aside. “You’re improving with each session, Maeve. Remember, trust and precision will be key in Dallas. And with your mask covering half your face, the blindfold will actually be an asset to you.”

Maeve exhaled deeply, her heart racing with a mixture of exhilaration and anticipation. She was on track, and with each new challenge, her confidence grew. Dallas was no longer a source of anxiety but a testament to how far she’d come.

Finally, the day came when they were scheduled to leave for Dallas. Maeve and Nadia were awakened well before the sun came up. Maeve and Nadia were led to two separate shower stalls for their morning routine of an enema and shower. This time Maeve was embarrassed to learn that her friend and classmate, Alex, would be giving her the usual enema.

“Don’t worry, Maeve, I’ve done this many times before.”

Maeve looked at Alex briefly before nodding and placing her arms in the rests as Alex strapped her in. Since Maeve has continued the ritual on her own as well as the daily enemas she received while living on the farm the last few months, it only took a few minutes to see clear water coming from Maeve’s backside. A quick rinse and then the hair removal cream. Fifteen minutes later Maeve and Nadia were being led into the pony trailer; barefoot and naked.

The trailer is outfitted with specially crafted frames welded to the walls, designed to keep each ponygirl safe and steady throughout the journey. Maeve steps in first, her eyes adjusting to the dim interior, and is guided onto her form by Alex. Her arms are stretched out to either side, legs spread and secured into place, resembling the iconic “Vitruvian Man” stance.

The two women handle Maeve and Nadia with care, ensuring they’re positioned comfortably. A silicone cup is placed over their most sensitive areas, connected by a hose to allow for relief on the long road. Maeve’s apprehension is visible in her face, but she keeps still, focusing on the trust she has built with Alex and Mariah. The securing process feels clinical and steady, though Maeve’s nerves are buzzing with anticipation.

Once both women are firmly strapped in, Mariah steps back to check the setup one last time, giving Maeve and Nadia an encouraging nod. Maeve takes a deep breath and closes her eyes, centering herself.

In a low voice, Mariah says, “You two are all set. We’ll stop frequently to check on you. It’s a long haul, but we’re doing this together. After sunup, we’ll stop for fuel and breakfast. We’ll release you to stretch and we’ll feed you at the same time. Maeve, I need you to remember to not leave the trailer. No one must ever see your face. You never know who is watching and may take a picture. Our ruse would be all over and you would be taken into custody to determine your fate if it was ever found out that you are not a real ponygirl.”

“Yes, Ma’am, I understand. Nadia and I will remain inside the trailer and eat here.” Maeve quietly responded, her anxiety increasing at the thought of a witness taking a photo with their smartphone and posting it on their social media page.

With the last few checks complete, Alex and Mariah close the trailer doors, the soft thud echoing in the quiet lot. They walk over to the truck and begin loading luggage and supplies into the truck bed, preparing for the hours on the road.

On the Road — Maeve and Nadia’s Conversation

Hours into the trip, with the hum of the highway and rhythmic jostling of the trailer, Maeve finally breaks the silence, her voice barely audible over the road noise. “Nadia ... do you ever worry about me being caught? Like, what if they figure it out at nationals and force me to stay a pony?”

Nadia turns her head slightly, her eyes meeting Maeve’s. “Maeve, we’re all here to make sure that doesn’t happen. You have Mariah and Mr. Lawson—trust that they’ll protect you.” She pauses thoughtfully before adding, “But ... let’s say, hypothetically, it did happen. Would it really be so terrible?”

Maeve’s breath catches as she thinks about it. “I don’t know. I mean, I’d miss my independence, the life I wanted after school but I’d be lying if I said I haven’t enjoyed some parts of this.”

Nadia’s gentle gaze encourages her to continue, and Maeve adds, “It’s a lot to give up, you know? But I’m not sure it would be completely devastating.”

Nadia’s reassuring smile is full of understanding. “And that’s natural. It’s a different life, but it’s not a terrible one. Just remember, though—you’re not alone in this. Trust your team, Maeve.”

As the truck hummed along the highway, Maeve finally broke the silence. “Nadia,” Maeve asked hesitantly, “you’ve been a ponygirl since I met you, and you seem ... completely at ease with it. I’ve wondered—how did it all start for you?”

Nadia gave a thoughtful smile as if choosing her words carefully. “It’s a fair question. And the truth is, becoming a ponygirl wasn’t in the plan, but it was ... a chance I didn’t expect.”

Maeve looked at her, intrigued. “How do you mean?”

Nadia continued; her voice soft. “I grew up fascinated by it. My family was pretty conservative, but we lived near a large training center. I’d watch through a pair of binoculars, watching the women who trained there—nude women dressed in leather harnesses, bridles, and boots; moving like horses, always so graceful and strong. I admired them, but it seemed like another world.”

Maeve nodded, encouraging her to go on. “When I was fourteen, I got mixed up with the wrong crowd. One night, a few friends and I had this reckless idea to break into the mall after hours. We hid until closing and then picked the locks of the shoe store, thinking we’d just take a few things and slip out unnoticed.” Nadia laughed a bit as if embarrassed by her younger self. “We were far from quiet, though, and the security guards found us. We ran for it. The others got away, but I wasn’t fast enough. I remember the cold, hard floor of the mall as they tackled me.”

“Were you ... scared?” Maeve asked quietly.

“Terrified,” Nadia admitted. “But I also thought I was honorable and didn’t want to drag anyone else down with me. My father taught me about honor and trust, so I refused to say who was with me. I pled guilty and chose to take my punishment, but I would not betray the trust of a friend. I won’t betray yours either Maeve. I consider us friends because you were kind to me and had the courage as a free woman to explore my lifestyle.

“At my hearing, I was given a choice: juvenile detention for four years or a unique rehabilitation program as a ponygirl. The judge said I’d still be under close supervision and would get a fresh start after serving my time.”

Maeve was surprised. “So, the court actually offered pony training as a punishment?”

“It sounds strange, I know. But the program was supposed to teach discipline.” Nadia’s eyes took on a distant look. “I thought it would be humiliating being naked in front of the world, or at least harder than anything I’d faced before. But from day one, I felt ... free. Life had always been so structured for me. But being a ponygirl wasn’t just about control—it was about freedom; in a way I hadn’t felt before. No one cared about my past. I was learning to channel all my energy into something I loved.”

Maeve listened, a growing respect in her eyes. “And when your time was up?”

“I chose to stay,” Nadia replied, smiling. “It was the first choice I made entirely for myself. And even now, every day, I feel more like myself as a ponygirl than I ever did before.”

Maeve took it all in, and after a moment, she admitted, “You know ... I came to the farm to get certified, but I couldn’t afford the fees. I’m just a broke college student, so when Mr. Lawson offered to pay for it if I agreed to spend Saturdays training as a ponygirl I jumped at the offer. I spent time experiencing the ponygirl lifestyle at the last farm I worked on so I knew I could do it here. I spend so much time naked back then that it is normal to me now. Even if I’m still a little nervous, I think I’m starting to get it. There’s something freeing about it.”

“Tell me about your time on your last farm, Maeve. I’d like to here your backstory, as well,” Nadia asked.

“It’s only fair, right?” So Maeve spent the next few miles telling Nadia about how Erica talked her into working in a bikini, then naked. How she talked her into wearing the tack and boots and then training alongside Pebble. She even shared some of Pebble’s story to explain how it all got started.

Nadia grinned, nodding in agreement. “Just remember Maeve: whatever happens, this is your choice too. And whatever you choose, you’ll have us there for you.” After they had run out of things to talk about, they decided to just take a nap until the next rest stop.

In the Truck — Conversation Between Alex and Mariah

As they cross into another state, Alex and Mariah are settling into the rhythm of the drive. Alex glances over at Mariah, her voice reflective. “So, how did Maeve end up in all this? I set up her meeting with Mr. Lawson, but I didn’t realize things had gotten so ... intense.”

Mariah glanced over with a small smile, understanding her surprise. “Well, Maeve actually struck a deal with Mr. Lawson early on. She wanted to get certified but couldn’t afford the full fee, so they arranged that if she agreed to train as a ponygirl on Saturdays, he’d waive the fee and cover her exam.”

Alex raised her eyebrows. “So, in exchange for the free certification, she’s been ... doing this?”

Mariah chuckles, shaking her head. “She has. I think that her first experience at Maplewood opened her eyes, and it was Erica who encouraged her to go all-in. Maeve’s got a lot of resilience, but she’s also got a lot to lose if we’re not careful at nationals.

“But then she went and won the regional race. And that got her invited to Nationals, which wasn’t exactly part of the original plan. She’s had to really step up to meet the competition. Maeve’s definitely shown more commitment than we expected,” Mariah added, a note of pride in her voice. “She’s in deeper than she anticipated, but she’s handling it incredibly well.”

Alex raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “She really committed, didn’t she? I guess she’s all in for this experience.”

“Absolutely,” Mariah replied, glancing at Alex with a knowing smile. “I think she’s found something she didn’t know she was looking for. She’s adapted better than anyone expected—even herself.”

Alex nods, her expression serious. “So, we’re sticking to the plan with the mask, right? I mean, I know the disguise worked at regionals, but this is a bigger stage. She’s nervous enough as it is.”

“Absolutely. The mask stays,” Mariah assures her. “And as for anyone who questions it, we’ll just say it’s part of her training—that she was blind when she came to us. The last thing we want is for her to be singled out. She’s got too much on the line for that.”

Mariah chuckled, keeping her eyes on the road. “She’s come a long way since that first meeting. Maeve dove into this world headfirst. And you can see the change in her—she’s found a rhythm to it.”

Alex nodded, reflecting. “I saw that at regionals. I had no idea that Starfire was Maeve and I go to school with her. She’s ... committed, that’s for sure. It’s wild to think that she goes to classes each weekday like nothing has changed.”

Mariah glanced over with a grin. “Trust me, Alex, you’ll see just how deep her commitment runs by the time Nationals are over.”

Their conversation shifts to lighter topics—the best rest stops along the route, a shared love of Texan barbecue, and a few humorous stories about past training mishaps. But the underlying current is clear: they’re both fully committed to keeping Maeve safe and her identity hidden.

As they cross into Texas, Mariah looks at Alex and says, “We’ll make a quick stop soon. Let the girls stretch, and then we’ll be back on the road. It’s the last stop before we get to Dallas.”

Alex nods in agreement, feeling the weight of responsibility. They both know the risks involved, but they’re determined to protect Maeve and make sure she’s given every chance to compete at nationals without worry.

After a long journey, the truck finally crossed into Texas. Alex and Mariah decided to make one last stop before their final leg to the arena. Alex exited the truck, stretching her legs before heading to check on the ponies. She stepped up into the trailer, finding Maeve and Nadia still secured in their travel frames, calm yet visibly ready to be free of the restraints.

Upon arrival at the competition grounds, they parked the truck and carefully opened the trailer doors. Alex reached for Maeve’s bridle with the blindfold attachment and fastened it securely, adjusting the bit in her mouth and settling the blindfold so it blocked her sight entirely. She leaned in close to Maeve and whispered reassuringly, “You’re almost there, just a few more steps.”

Alex unbuckled her from the travel frame, attaching reins to her bridle before gently guiding her out. Maeve stepped down cautiously, her other senses heightened as she adjusted to her unfamiliar surroundings.

As Maeve waited outside, Mariah unfastened Nadia, who was calm as ever, ready for the next stage. Both ponies were now free and ready to make their way to the stables. Alex and Mariah led Maeve and Nadia across the grounds, weaving through the bustling arena grounds. They entered the designated barn area where Maeve and Nadia would be housed for the duration of the competition.

After settling them in separate stalls, Mariah and Alex prepared water and feed trays for each. Maeve, still blindfolded, leaned forward, instinctively finding the feed. As she ate, she tried to calm herself, focusing on the familiar routine to keep her anxiety in check.

Midway through the meal, an official approached Maeve’s stall, his curiosity clearly piqued. He peered into the stall, noting the blindfold and turning to Mariah. “Why is this pony blindfolded?” he asked, his tone a mix of curiosity and mild concern.

Mariah quickly responded, her voice calm and practiced. “Starfire was diagnosed with severe panic attacks when she was still a free woman. Her anxiety in public settings became so overwhelming that she opted to become a ponygirl, but with one special condition: she must wear a blindfold whenever she’s out of her stall. This way, she feels safe in new environments. Since these are new surroundings, I felt it would be best for her to wear it full-time to avoid any complications.”

The official frowned slightly, but after a moment, he nodded. “Unusual ... but if it keeps her calm and she’s not a risk, it’s fine by me. Just make sure she stays quiet and well-behaved.”

“Of course,” Mariah replied with a reassuring smile. “Starfire is perfectly docile with this setup and won’t cause any issues.”

With a final nod, the official moved on to another stall. Mariah let out a quiet sigh of relief as he walked away, grateful that her story had been convincing. She reached out, giving Maeve a gentle pat on the shoulder, silently reassuring her that all was well.

The day passed slowly, with little more than soft chatter and an occasional visitor passing by the barn. Most of the ponies and trainers were taking the opportunity to settle in, letting the ponies rest from their travels. Maeve, still wearing the blindfold, spent much of the day in quiet reflection, trying to relax amid the unfamiliar sounds of the bustling grounds around her. Alex and Mariah checked in frequently, making sure Maeve and Nadia were comfortable, watered, and well-fed.

As evening settled, Mariah entered Maeve’s stall to help her settle down for the night. “Rest well, Starfire,” she whispered, giving Maeve a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder. “Tomorrow will be a big day.”

Early Morning Routine

The following morning began early, even before the first light crept into the sky. Alex and Mariah arrived at the barn, greeted by the familiar quiet of ponies slowly awakening in their stalls. Maeve and Nadia were both gently stirred awake by the sounds of trainers preparing for the day’s events.

“Morning, Starfire,” Alex said softly, resting a hand on Maeve’s shoulder as she began unbuckling her from her resting position. Maeve shifted, her senses still adjusting to the bustling around her.

“Today’s the big day,” Mariah reminded her in a whisper as she handed Maeve her breakfast—a tray of pony feed and fresh water. “But first, we’ll go through your morning routine.”

Maeve gave a small nod, sensing the encouragement in Mariah’s tone. After she finished her meal, she felt Mariah’s familiar touch as she guided her to the stall’s designated cleaning area. There, Maeve went through her usual routine under Mariah and Alex’s careful guidance, focusing on each movement and centering herself for the day ahead.

Once Maeve and Nadia were both clean, fed, and refreshed, Mariah attached Maeve’s lead to her bridle and guided her out of the stall. As they moved toward the staging area, the crisp morning air and soft hum of conversation from nearby trainers reminded Maeve of the day’s importance. She straightened her back, ready to put all of her training and preparation to the test.

Day One: Preliminaries

The morning was filled with a sense of challenge as Mariah led Maeve, still masked, to the warm-up area. The arena was alive with competitors, the tension palpable. Maeve’s breathing quickened behind her mask, feeling the weight of the competition for the first time. Sensing her hesitation, Mariah placed a steadying hand on her shoulder.

“Starfire,” Mariah whispered, using her competition name, “this is just the beginning. Focus on my voice and tune everything else out.”

Maeve nodded, mentally repeating Mariah’s instructions. The dressage preliminaries were up first, and as she entered the arena, she could feel every subtle shift in Mariah’s tone as the routine began. Each step was meticulously timed, every lift and turn polished by weeks of practice. Maeve moved gracefully through each maneuver, letting the rhythm of Mariah’s cues guide her. As she completed her routine, the crowd murmured in approval.

After their performance, Mariah led her out of the arena, her voice filled with pride. “Top three in dressage prelims!” she announced, squeezing Maeve’s arm.

The race preliminaries were next, a grueling circuit with high stakes. Mariah prepared Maeve at the starting line. “This is about pacing yourself—stay close to Nadia, follow my cues, and give it your all at the final stretch.”

Maeve’s heartbeat echoed in her ears as the race began, the sound of hooves pounding the dirt track drowning out everything else. She pushed forward, each stride harder than the last. Nadia was just ahead, her steady pace setting the rhythm. As they neared the final bend, Maeve tapped into her reserves, surging forward. She crossed the line in third, just behind Nadia, exhilarated.

“You did it, Starfire!” Mariah cheered, pulling her into a brief hug as they exited the track.

Day Two: Semifinals

The next day, the stakes were higher. Mariah carefully checked Maeve’s tack, adjusting the blindfold. “Today, we’re not holding anything back,” she murmured, brushing Maeve’s shoulder reassuringly. “You know the routine, trust yourself.”

In the dressage semifinals, the arena was silent as Maeve entered, the crowd’s anticipation thick in the air. The preliminaries had been intense, but this round had a different energy—competitors watching each other closely, each trying to gain an edge. Maeve stayed focused, feeling Mariah’s presence beside her and listening intently to each command.

The movements flowed together seamlessly, and as they hit the final steps, Maeve felt a rush of pride. They finished strong, earning a roar of applause from the spectators. Once outside, Mariah clasped her hands together in excitement. “Second place! That’s what I’m talking about, Maeve!”

The semifinals for racing brought a new wave of competition. Competitors jostled at the starting line, their determination evident. Mariah tightened her grip on Maeve’s reins, leaning close. “Run your race, Starfire. Follow my lead.”

Maeve bolted forward at the gunshot, the crowd’s cheers blurring in her mind as she focused solely on Mariah’s directions. Each lap grew more intense, a mix of sharp turns and sprints that tested her stamina. She almost lost her footing near the last curve but caught herself, pushing forward in the final stretch. She came in second, barely a breath behind Nadia.

Mariah grinned widely as they crossed the line. “That’s my girl!” she said, patting Maeve’s shoulder. “One more day.”

Day Three: Finals

On the morning of the finals, the barn was buzzing. Mariah carefully adjusted Maeve’s tack, securing her mask one last time. “Today’s it, Starfire. Everything you’ve worked for leads up to this.”

Maeve nodded, her pulse racing. She could feel the pressure, but Mariah’s encouragement calmed her. As she entered the dressage arena for the final time, Maeve could sense the heightened anticipation. She tuned out the crowd, honing in on Mariah’s voice.

The routine was flawless—each movement precise, each command executed without hesitation. At the end of their set, the crowd erupted in applause. Mariah’s triumphant voice came through as they exited. “You took first place, Maeve. You did it!”

The race finals were the last hurdle. Mariah steadied Maeve’s reins at the starting line, giving her a firm nod. “This is your moment, Starfire. Show them what you’ve got.”

The gunshot echoed, and Maeve shot forward, her blindfolded world narrowed to the rhythm of her strides and Mariah’s guiding calls. Competitors surged around her, but Maeve held steady, keeping pace with Nadia through the first few laps. When they reached the final lap, Mariah’s voice urged her to give it everything.