"You'll do fine. Its an honour to be in this competition, especially at your age. If you win, its a bonus." Cassie said. Lee nodded. That was true. But this was such a big competition, and everyone else was so much more experienced. She patted Nights neck, and he willingly followed her. They watched the competitors go through the course one at a time, not one going clear, and only a couple making the time. First, a single, turn and an oxer, across the ring to the double, another single, then around to the 12 ft wide water jump, then to a double oxer combo, and around to the last jump. Her name was called, and she mounted up, Cassie patting her leg. She waited for the competitor to finish his round, and then rode out.

She walked, nodding to the judges, and listened for the bell. It rung, and then it went quiet for her. The crowd was a soft hum, the commentator just a buzz as she cantered him to take a look at the water jump. Then they turned, past the beginning flags, and began. They were one as they sailed over the first. Their thoughts shared, his long legs ate up the ground as they flew to and over the oxer. They turned, galloping across the arena, slowing at the double, as he easily took them both on, which was surprising for most. His black coat was damp, and so was Lees brow, as she took him over the single, using it to slow him to a steady canter. Here's where being a friesian helped. He shifted back and then they exploded forward, over the water, not a single drop hitting them. They flew towards the oxer combo, clearing one, then the next. And around to the last jump they sprinted, leaping. He tilted slightly, but Lee fixed her balance, and he landed safely, bounding between the finish flag. And the crowd roared. She had cleared the course, and in time too.

Denis was watching from the stands and he made his way down to the arena when she finished. He was clappig as he reached her, "You guys were great.!"

She grinned breathlessly as Night stopped. Cassie ran over grinning. "I can't believe you did it!"

Denis smiled up at Lee, "Good job." He patted Night's shoulder, "You looked great."

Cassie grabbed Denis around the wrist, gently tugging. "We have to get out of the arena guys." She nodded towards the beckoning people in the exit tunnel. Lee nudged Night into a jog toward the tunnel.

Denis followed, winking up at Lee with a congratulations.

She smiled, and others congratulated them as they entered. Lee hopped off of Night, and the stallion followed her lovingly. Cassie grinned for her friend.

Denis smiled and followed them.

Cassie twirled when they got to Nights stall, eyes a bright bright aqua. Blue. She pulled nights sheet over his back and saddle. "Now go collect your prize!" She grinned, as Lee was called again.

Denis smiled and did a little clap, "Go!" He laughed.

"I can't believe it! Its so surreal. And I'm not even the rider. Cassie chimed when Lee had leapt on Night and they rushed to the ring. "We're partying tonight, definitely." She beamed, her features seemingly glowing.

Denis laughed at both of their comments, "Yeaaa. We're gonna tear it up!"

She grinned, eyes full of excitement. "Oh, but I should probably avoid the drinks. Anything tipsy and over, I get uncontrollable."

He laughed, "Yeah we will keep you away from everything!" He laughed again, "Maybe you can have one or two appletinis though. Those are pretty good and they won't get you too tipsy."

She grinned mischeviously. "Oh I get it." She glanced towards the arena. "Come on!" She grabbed his hand, fingers slipping into his, and began to tug him along.

He laughed and followed her.

She led him through the maze of people to the tunnel, where Lee and two other riders were standing to receive the medals and ribbons.

He watched Lee as she was awarded her prize and cheered along with the crowd.

Cassie grinned, clapping and whistling. Lee beamed as she got her awards, Night bobbing his head and dropping his muzzle on her shoulder.

Denis smiled happily, he watched Lee and Night. They had done so well..

After they got given the awards and paraded, lee finally ddlismounted besides them, face flushed. "That was exciting." She said breathlessly. Cassie smiled, and kissed Lees forehead. "You're amazing."

Denis grinned, "Yes, I agree with Cassie, You are amazing." he smiled, "And Night is too."

Lee blushed slightly as they started back towards Nights stall.

Denis smiled and followed happily.

As they came to his stall, Lightning popped her head out of the one next to it, nickering. Cassie stroked her nose, and Night stopped to great her.