"Well, see the pony finally warmed up, and no bleeding hand. Good sign." Alex said,

paying only half-attention to them. Cherokee was in the dressage ring, close to the others.

He probably had to raise his voice minimally to have Acacia able to hear him. A grin was

on his face, though his eyes were still tired. He had Cherokee almost into a perfect

levade when she flew forward, hind legs kicking in the air. Audits were pinned to her

cranium, and she was clearly angry. Alex had barely enough time to grab onto her

mane before she plunged backwards, thankfully, more than usual awake. He whispered

something indian to Cher, and she stopped, but stood still as Alex patted her. With a

slight pressure - knee- he led her into a collected trot, every few paces a little off-beat

from her ordeal. He knew exactly what the problem was. Alex looked over again at

Acacia, a smile on his face, "I think that little pony annoys Cher, do you?" He asked,

quite sarcastically. You could tell by his face, his language, everything, that he was

not in the least bit angered himself.

"Fine, just give me a little giggle and I'll be on my way." Alex muttered, dismounting

from Cherokee. He patted her neck, and grabbing the reins tightly, led her outside the

ring, tying her to the side. Walking over he leaned on the rails to the jumping

arena.

"You look good."

The comment was directed to Emily and Acacia, and even to Allie if she could hear.