Sparkling Jade

EARLY RELEASE FOR MY $30+ PATRONS!

I was gonna wait to write another Siegfeld fic but then I heard it was Shiori's birthday and my initial idea dealt with spoiling her so I figured I'd just do it for her birthday fic aha. Also, I couldn't think of a title, so this one is just to show our Frau Jade is gonna have a fun birthday.

This is the first time I'm writing all 5 of them so I hope I wrote them decently... I have no clue if they did anything like this in Starira or referred to it or anything, I'm just winging it.

Disclaimer: I do not own Shoujo Kageki Revue Starlight.

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														Sparkling Jade

Shiori had already been awake for close to half an hour this morning, but remembering it's a Sunday, she hadn't gotten up right away.

It's calm, sunny mornings like these where she prefers to linger in her bed just a little while longer to enjoy the beaming rays of sunlight slipping through her window. She appreciates the softness of her bed, and the fact that she has no responsibilities or expectations to fulfill today, at least in terms of school work.

But as she slowly turns over now to face her window and hug her blankets to her chest, she can't help but feel there is something she should be remembering today…

That's when a knock comes on her door. Puzzled, Shiori sits herself up now and rubs her eyes.

"Ah, y-yes?"

"Shiori~?" Yachiyo's voice drawls. "It's us. Can I open the door?"

"Eh-?" Shiori blushes and starts to fidget. She doesn't know who or how many of them 'us' means. "S-Sure."

Her door opens slowly, and Yachiyo steps in first, dressed casually in shorts and a t-shirt. She gives a tiny wave.

"Morning~ Sorry. Hope we didn't wake you."

"N-Not at all!" Shiori squeaks. "I've been awake, but I was just getting up."

Yachiyo smiles.

"That's good. So listen, we were-"

But before she can finish, Shiori hears a sound coming from behind her. It's the sound of someone who's been really excited for something finally breaking their restraints and letting out their voice.

"Shiori!" As Mei Fan's gleeful squeal fills the room, Shiori stiffens a little bit. But before Yachiyo can even hope to stop her classmate, Mei Fan hurries in past her now and runs straight to Shiori's bed. Shiori tries to brace herself as much as possible before the inevitable impact of the exuberant hug collides with her.

"M-Mei Fan-senpai-?"

"Happy birthday, Shiori!"

"E-Eh-?"

"Ahh darn," Yachiyo sighs. "I knew she'd spoil it."

"Sorry," Michiru says sheepishly from out in the hallway. "I couldn't hold her back any more…"

Somehow Shiori hears all of them past Mei Fan's nuzzling and cooing.

"H-Hold on a second, M-Mei Fan-senpai-!"

"Mei Fan," the final, deep voice of Akira calls out. "That's enough. Let her get her bearings."

"Oh! Sorry, Shiori!"

As Mei Fan finally releases her, Shiori is left a little frazzled and confused. She blinks up at her first, then to the others at her door. And only now does Shiori remember the important thing about today.

"Ah! Th-That's right! It's my birthday!"

"Eeeeh?" Yachiyo drawls again. "Don't tell me you forget your own birthday."

"No way!" Michiru says. "Shiori, you've gotta remember your birthday!"

"S-Sorry!" she mumbles. "It really slipped my mind this time…"

"Well, no matter," Akira says firmly. "The fact that it's fallen on a Sunday is fortunate and means we can celebrate."

"Shiori, you're so lucky~" Yachiyo chuckles. "Normally, Akira-senpai wouldn't want anything to do with frivolous parties and stuff like that."

"What are you saying? That isn't true," Akira defends. "Of course we'd celebrate a fellow Edel's birthday."

"Okay, okay!" Michiru cuts in. "No arguing on Shiori's birthday!" She grins and turns to the girl still in her bed. "We've got something super fun planned for you today, Shiori!"

"Eh? You have something planned…?"

"Of course!" Mei Fan says. "We were planning it in secrecy all week! Yachiyo did a lot of research on a good place-"

"Aaahh Mei Fan!" Michiru stops her. "Don't spoil it!"

"Oh!"

"Enough." Akira steps forward now and calls for silence. She looks to Shiori, who blushes due to her unkempt appearance. "Shiori, get dressed and meet us for breakfast. We have a bus to catch."

"E-Eh? W-We're leaving campus?"

"Yup~!" Michiru says. "Don't worry, we already asked the school for permission to leave."

"That's right!" Mei Fan smiles. "You're going to love what we have planned for you!"

"I-I'm sure I will…"

Now that the initial shock has worn off, Shiroi smiles back at all of them. A warm feeling spreads throughout her chest at the notion that they'd all go so far as to surprise her like this for her birthday.

"Oh," Yachiyo says. "And one last thing - make sure you dress comfortably. Kind of like we are."

With this, Akira has everyone else leave the room so Shiori can get out of bed and get ready.

Shiori ponders what she should wear as she makes her bed. For whatever reason, the others had all been wearing pants and shorts, so she opts to do the same. She pulls on a pair of white leggings and then a light green mini-skirt, then a white blouse and a cardigan of darker green. As she brushes through her hair, her heart is fluttering in excitement.

I can't believe everyone is doing something like this for me!

She's nervous but giddy as she quickly gets herself ready and tidies her room before scurrying to the door. She meets the others in the common room, then they head to breakfast together. As they eat, Mei Fan keeps casting her happy glances.

"So, Shiori! How do you usually celebrate your birthday? Like when you were younger at home and stuff?"

"W-Well… We'd pretty much just have a small party at home, and my parents and sister would give me my presents. And we'd have cake for dessert! It was always very nice."

"Did you ever go out with friends before?" Michiru wonders.

Shiori lowers her gaze a little bashfully.

"No… it's a bit complicated…"

"Ah, Michiru-senpai, you asked something weird~"

"Ehhhh? No way!"

"N-Not at all!" Shiori pipes. "It isn't that I didn't have many friends or anything like that… I just preferred to celebrate and spend time with my family."

"I see," Akira nods. "Then I hope you won't mind us taking up your birthday this year."

"Of course not!" Shiori gasps. "I-I'm very happy you all planned something out for me! I'm so thankful!"

"Ah, Akira-senpai made her feel like she was being unappreciative~"

"Y-Yachiyo-senpai!" Shiori squeaks. "I-It's all right!"

They all share a good-natured laugh as they continue eating. Akira finishes first and keeps an eye on the time, then rounds them all up so they'll have ample time to make it to the bus stop.

Shiori walks at the center of the group as they visit the main office to let the staff know they're leaving campus, then head outside.

The weather is absolutely perfect for this time of year. It's warm, but not warm enough to be hot, and the sun shines down brightly from a lovely blue sky. As they head down the sidewalk bound for the bus stop, Shiori jolts as Mei Fan suddenly takes hold of her right hand, and then Michiru takes her left.

"Don't mind us!" Michiru grins.

"Right!" Mei Fan agrees. "Is this all right, Shiori?"

"Y-Yes. It's all right."

"Haaah?" Yachiyo whines. "No fair. I wanna touch the birthday girl, too." She comes up from behind and slumps against Shiori's back, wrapping both arms around her collar in a lazy hug. Shiori staggers a little bit between the three of them.

"E-Everyone…"

"Enough messing around," Akira huffs. "We've got a bus to catch."

"Eh~?" Yachiyo smirks. "Akira-senpai, are you just jealous cuz there's no room left for you to touch her~?"

"Don't be ridiculous."

"Aw, Akira!" Michiru giggles. "You should've said something! Here, I'll move back and you can hold Shiori's hand!"

"I said enough," Akira grunts. "We're going to be late."

Shiori chuckles thinly as she's ushered along amongst them all the way to the bus stop. When the bus arrives, she fishes out her coin purse from her cardigan's pocket to pay the fee, but before she can pull out so much as a penny, Akira holds up a hand to stop her.

"I've got it covered."

"Eh?" Shiori blinks. "B-But Yukishiro-senpai-"

"Shiori~" Yachiyo murmurs from behind. "Let Akira-senpai do this for you, okay~?"

Shiori dips her head in understanding.

"Right."

They all board together and take their seats. Michiru, Mei Fan, and Akira sit together, and Yachiyo stays with Shiori, who is offered the window seat. As the bus takes off, she gazes outside, wondering where they could possibly be bringing her.

I'm a bit nervous, but this is so exciting!

For now, she glances to Yachiyo, who has pulled out her phone to look through costume designs, but glances up to her now with a smile.

"Don't be nervous," she says, reading Shiori like a book. "I promise you're gonna have fun."

"Oh, of course!" she gasps. "It's not that I'm worried I won't like it! I know I'll love whatever it is you all planned for me! It's just that… I hope you can all enjoy it, too. I don't want you to just be tagging along and I'll be the only one having fun. I hope you're not going through any trouble for my sake…"

"Not at all~" Yachiyo rests a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We all agreed this would be perfect not just for you, but for letting us have a good experience, too. So don't worry about it. Just enjoy~"

Shiori already feels so much better in hearing that it's something the others will like too. She sighs and dips her head with a smile.

"All right. Thank you, Yachiyo-senpai!"

"Don't mention it."

They ride the bus for about ten minutes, and Shiori recognizes they're heading away from town and more toward the rural areas. She's admiring the scenery of the trees and open grasslands when her vision suddenly goes dark as two hands cover her eyes from behind.

"Okay~" Yachiyo murmurs in her ear. "Please close your eyes now so you won't get spoiled for the surprise yet~"

"Eh? A-All right…" Shiori does as she's told and closes her eyes, and Yachiyo removes her hands.

"No peeking~"

"I won't!"

Shiori keeps her word and doesn't open her eyes for the next few minutes, even when the bus comes rumbling to a stop. She hears Akira speak up to all of them.

"All right. We're here."

"Oh my!" Mei Fan says excitedly. "I can't wait! I haven't done this for quite some time!"

"It's been a while for me, too," Michiru says.

Shiroi is eager to open her eyes and see where they've taken her, but she controls herself and keeps them closed for now.

Yachiyo takes her hands and helps her up, then guides her down the aisle and the steps as they thank the driver. As Shiori takes the last wobbly step off the bus and onto solid ground, she feels Mei Fan and Michiru take her hands again, while Yachiyo keeps a hand on her back to steer her.

"All right~" Yachiyo says. "We made it."

"Wow!" Mei Fan gasps. "This place is incredible!"

"Don't give it away yet, Mei Fan!" Michiru says.

"Ah, you guys!" Shiori whimpers. "I want to know so badly…"

"Don't tease her," Akira says, and then Shiori feels another hand on her other shoulder. "Come on."

"R-Right…"

Now with Mei Fan and Michiru guiding her by her hands, and Yachiyo and Akira guiding her by her shoulders, Shiori is coaxed forward.

"I'm sure you'll figure it out in a second," Yachiyo says. "Who wouldn't? This place has a very distinct kind of smell."

"And the sounds!" Michiru adds.

"It does?" Shiori tilts her head a little as they continue leading her forward. She draws in a deep breath, and right away she can tell they're right. This place smells very strongly of soil and dry grass.

And now, as she focuses on her hearing past the little murmurs of her friends and the crunching of their shoes over the gravel, Shiori can make out a certain, and very familiar sound.

The sound of whinnying.

She gasps out loud just as her friends bring her to a halt.

"All right," Akira says. "Open your eyes, Shiori."

Shiori does so instantly, and an absolutely wonderful sight awaits her.

She finds herself now on a massive property bordered with acres and acres of fenced-in pastures, with a large barn and stables at the center. And of course, all around them in the fields and in the corrals and just walking freely with their riders, are dozens and dozens of horses.

Shiori is grateful for all of her friends still holding onto her, because if not for them, she might've swayed and sunk to her knees. Her jaw drops, her heart leaps, and her eyes twinkle.

"H… Horses!"

"Happy birthday, Shiori!" Michiru cheers.

"Yes!" Mei Fan says. "Happy birthday! We're bringing you to an equestrian club for the day!"

"I managed to find one close by," Yachiyo explains. "And we all pitched in a little for the payment."

"It should prove to be quite a valuable experience for all of us," Akira says. "What do you think, Shiori?"

Shiori is still in a bit of a stupor, and she can't remember how to speak for a moment. She just marvels at the sights around her, of so many horses galloping and grazing and whinnying and being brushed and fed and pet…

"Hello~?" Yachiyo taps her shoulder. "Earth to Shiroi?"

"I think we broke her," Michiru giggles.

"Shiori?" Mei Fan prompts gently. "Do you like it?"

And at last, Shiroi lets out another gasp and snaps back to her senses.

"Like it?" she cries. "Yes! I love it! I-I can't believe you all thought to do something like this for me! This is so wonderful!"

Akira gives a nod of approval.

"I'm glad. Now then, let's get our visitors' passes for the day so we can take a look around."

Shiori's heart backflips with joy.

"Okay!"

Now that her surprise has been revealed and she no longer has to close her eyes, Shiori bounds to the head of the group and starts leading the way herself. She's just about skipping now, and she can't keep the smile off her face as she turns her head back and forth to glimpse the various horses walking around.

She has to push herself to actually step inside the building for a moment and leave the animals behind out-of-sight. A woman seated at a small office-like area waves them over with a smile, but from here Akira takes the lead. Shiori hangs back, clutching her hands together.

"Gosh… I hope you all didn't pay too much for this."

"Don't worry!" Michiru says, patting her shoulder. "Yachiyo managed to book this place when they were having a promotion sale, so it was nothing when the four of us combined our wallets!"

Yachiyo gives a peace sign. Mei Fan comes up on her other side wearing a big smile.

"That's right! It was no trouble at all! So please, don't worry about any of that and just enjoy your birthday, Shiori!"

Feeling a blush coming on, Shiori dips her head.

"Yes. Thank you, all."

By now, Akira has finished speaking, and the clerk waves the girls over to get their visitors' passes. Even the lanyards have little horses on them, and Shiori's smile gets even bigger as she puts hers on.

"Now then," Akira explains. "We have a few options. We can start by walking around to see the horses-"

"Great!" Shiori pipes up. "That sounds wonderful! Let's go!" Normally, she'd never dream of interrupting Akira like that, but today she's just far too excited to be mindful. And though Akira sighs, she takes no offense.

"All right. Lead the way then, Shiori."

"Okay!"

Shiori takes them back outside, back to the sounds of whinnying and a clopping hooves. She first brings the group over to a large, green, fenced-in pasture where at least a dozen horses are roaming at their leisure. She scurries right up to the fence to gaze adoringly at the animals. The horses vary in color, but all seem to be very placid and content as they walk around grazing.

"Wow! Just look at them! They're so magnificent!"

As her friends move in beside her, they agree.

"They certainly are," Akira says. "Horses have played an essential role in mankind's history since the very beginning. Without them, it's uncertain of exactly how far our societies would be developed by now."

"They're super strong," Yachiyo says. "Ah, look that one has a shawl on. I'd like to try making one of those sometime…"

"Truly amazing creatures," Mei Fan agrees. "It's been a while since I've been so close to horses."

"And they're so cute!" Michiru finishes. "Shiori, what do you think?"

Shiori is barely listening at this point, simply because she's so fixated on the animals she loves so dearly.

"So many chestnuts… Ah, and that one back there is dappled! And there's a palomino, and a buckskin!"

"You're losing me a little bit," Yachiyo admits.

"Wow!" Mei Fan praises her. "Shiori, you really know your breeds!"

"Impressive," Akira smirks. "Shiori, you're quite knowledgeable when it comes to horses."

"Thank you!"

"Oh, and look!" Michiru says. "It seems like we can even feed them." She directs everyone's attention a bit further down the length of the fence to where a woman in a jockey's outfit is standing with a bag of carrots, handing the vegetables to a group of other visitors. Already, a few horses are making their way over for the treats.

All five girls seem at least a little intrigued by the idea, but by far Shiori is the most excited. Her jaw drops again, though she covers it this time, but she can't hide the sparkle in her eyes. The others share bemused glances.

"All right," Yachiyo says. "Guess that's settled."

"Good observation, Michiru." Akira actually seems surprisingly interested in the idea. "This will be a first for me."

"Oh, I can't wait!" Mei Fan cheers. "Shiori, please demonstrate first and show us how it's done!"

"Really? Everyone is all right with it?"

The four of them nod.

"Of course!"

"Definitely!"

So with a smile so big her face starts to ache, Shiori leads the group to the little feeding station. She starts explaining how to hold the carrot and feed the horses even before the worker can.

"When you feed a horse, you've got to keep your fingers together and open your palm flat. Horses don't try to bite you, but it could happen by accident if you curl your fingers."

"My," the woman says good-naturedly. "I'll have to watch out or you might come for my job, Miss."

"O-Oh! N-Not at all!"

"Calm down, Shiori," Michiru giggles. "She was just kidding."

"Oh. I see…"

"Shiori!" Mei Fan says. "Please show us how it's done!"

"Sure!"

The five girls wait their turn to be handed carrots, and already there are more horses making their way over. Shiori, who would probably be a bit nervous doing just about anything else in the entire world, now steps boldly and confidently up to the fence as the animals look at her expectantly.

"Don't worry!" she smiles. "You'll all get to have a treat! One at a time."

Her fellow Edels watch her with interest.

"Wow," Yachiyo murmurs. "She's really in her element, huh?"

"Such confidence!" Mei Fan agrees.

"And she isn't acting!" Michiru says. "This is 100% genuine Shiori."

"Are you three playing attention?" Akira snaps. "Watch how she does this."

The others all obey and observe as Shiroi offers out her carrot to the nearest horse - a grey mare dappled with white flecks. Shiori holds her hand out flat as she'd told them all do too.

"Actually, I guess that doesn't really apply as much for a carrot," she says. "Since it's big enough they can just bite one end. But still, it's better to be safe!" As she finishes speaking, the mare gently bites down on the carrot in Shiori's palm and begins munching away. Shiori is absolutely glowing.

"There you go! Good girl!"

Her four classmates can't help but either grin or try to fend off blushes behind her.

"Shiori," Michiru whispers. "You're too radiant right now!"

The woman in charge of the horses speaks up just then.

"You can pet them if you'd like."

"R-Really?!" Shiori half-gasps, half-shrieks in her glee. When she's granted permission, she slowly reaches out toward the mare still munching on the carrot to run her fingertips gently down her muzzle. The horse stays put, clearly enjoying the bit of contact, so Shiori adds in her other hand to pet the horse's ears.

"There, there. What a good girl!"

The others are quiet for a moment, basking in the shine of Shiori's glee before she turns around to them.

"Come on, everyone! It's so much fun!"

The Edels' hearts all flip or flutter to some varying degree, as seeing and hearing Shiori this happy would have an effect on even the most stoic person of the school.

Akira acts unfazed and steps up the fence next to feed a brown horse with a white diamond on his forehead. She says nothing as he inspects the carrot in her palm, but doesn't get close enough to take it. Instead, he stands back a few feet and just waits. Akira tilts her head.

"What's the matter? Not hungry after all?"

"Ah-Actually…" Shiori murmurs. "Y-Yukishiro-senpai… it may be that he's nervous around you…"

"Huh? What for?" she grunts.

"J-Just because you have such a strong, commanding presence. Horses can sense that sort of thing."

"Pff," Yachiyo chuckles. "Akira-senpai, please don't scare the horses~ You're too intimidating."

Akira glares at her, but then realizes that's exactly what's making the animals hesitant. So she draws in a deep breath and tries to relax her posture a bit. The horse in front of her perks his ears, but doesn't move. Shiori steps in beside her king.

"Try clicking your tongue!" she suggests. She demonstrates, and the horse takes a step toward them. Akira tries to mimic the sound, but for whatever reason it just sounds so strange to the rest of them; their Frau Platin cooing to a horse. They have to hold back their reactions.

But the horse does approach now that Akira's changed her energy a bit. At last, he accepts the carrot from her.

Shiori claps gleefully.

"You did it, Yukishiro-senpai!"

"Good job, Akira!"

"Hmph." Akira crosses her arms. "Something like this was easy." But she does offer a smile to Shiori. "Thank you for the pointers, Shiori. I always thought of horses as creatures of labor. I never knew they could be so sensitive and in-tune to human emotions."

"Yes!" she smiles. "They're very smart animals!"

"I see."

Now, the other three step up to offer their carrots as well. Shiori watches fondly as they all feed different horses, talking to them softly and petting their heads and necks. She's overjoyed that they'd brought her here for her own sake, but even happier at the fact that they're all enjoying themselves as well.

After a few more minutes of lingering by the fence to pet and watch the horses, the five Edels move back to let other guests have their turn. The woman handing out the carrots also gives them a package of hand wipes for them to use before directing them to the garbage can. They all thank her as they leave the area, though Shiori does keep looking fondly back at the horses.

"So?" Mei Fan asks her. "How is it so far, Shiori?"

"It's wonderful!" she says. "I haven't gotten to see a horse in-person for several months now!"

"Akira-senpai," Yachiyo calls. "Why don't you tell Shiori the other things we can do here today?"

"Oh!" Shiori gasps. "Th-That's right! Yukishiro-senpai, you'd been trying to tell me before but I got so excited I cut you off! I'm so sorry!"

"Never mind that." Akira waves her hand dismissively. "I'm glad to know you were that enthusiastic, Shiori. In any case, from what I recall, we can also observe the jockeys and their horses performing various techniques."

"Probably over there!" Michiru points up ahead to a series of wooden bleachers that overlook a wide open arena of sorts. There are several horses trotting around with their riders in preparation for the course of cones and jumps. Shiori clasps her hands together in delight.

"Oh! That looks wonderful! Let's-" But before she can go leading them all off again, she pauses. "A-Ah, I'm sorry. I should be asking what the four of you would like to do as well…"

"Don't worry, Shiori!" Mei Fan grins. "We'll do whatever you want to do today!"

"That's right!" Michiru agrees. "You're the birthday girl, after all!"

"If you're happy we're happy," Yachiyo smiles.

"Shiroi, lead the way," Akira invites her.

So with a blush on her cheeks and a bound in her step, Shiori brings the group to the bleachers. They all sit in a row and observe as the jockeys warm up their horses before taking turns on the course.

The horses first zig-zag through a line of cones, then loop around to clear several hurdles. Every time the horses make a jump, the girls watching hum or cheer to express how impressed they are, save for Akira who sits quietly with her arms crossed to watch seriously. The final jump is quite high, however, and Mei Fan expresses her concerns.

"Are they seriously going to make that?" she frets. "It looks higher than some of the horses' legs are long!"

Shiori gives her a reassuring smile.

"Don't worry, Mei Fan-senpai! Horses are much more capable of things when they have a rider they trust! The bond between a jockey and their horse is essential, not only for success, but to avoid injury and remain safe." She fixes her gaze back on the course now. "So long as they trust one another, they'll be fine!"

They all watch now as the current jockey and her horse approach the final jump. The horse increases its speed, and right at the last second leaps to clear the bar, then lands neatly on the other side. The girls all clap and cheer, and even Akira looks impressed.

"That was great," Yachiyo says. "It always makes me nervous to see a horse stop at the jump right at the last second."

"Ah, me too," Shiori sighs. "But even that shows a strong bond between the horse and jockey! If one of them has doubts about it, it's best to trust the other and let them do what they feel comfortable with! It's better to not clear the jump than to push through it and risk the horse getting panicked or injured."

The five of them sit a while longer and watch other jockeys and horses going through the course. They always cheer when the last jump is cleared, and even Akira makes comments like "Impressive" every once in a while.

They watch until the last of the horses has finished the course, then give a round of applause. At this point, Shiori is smiling and even panting for breath a little bit.

"Ah, that was wonderful!"

"Hey, Shiori?" Michiru asks. "Are you all right?"

"You're sweating a bit," Yachiyo informs her.

"The sun is getting pretty strong now," Mei Fan says.

"Eh? Oh, no! I'm all right!" Shiori assures them. "I'm sorry. I was just getting really into it."

Akira is already getting up from her seat.

"That's no good. We'd best get out of the sun for a while. Luckily, there's something we can do for that."

They all get to their feet, and this time Akira takes the lead. She brings them toward the stables now, where all five of them are grateful for the shade.

"From what I recall," she says. "Guests are permitted to walk through and look at the horses inside. Is that right, Yachiyo?"

"Yes, yes~" Yachiyo sings. "You got it, Chief."

"Good. Then let's do this now."

Shiori does her best to contain her excitement as they enter the stables. There are several farmhands and staff inside either feeding the horses or cleaning stalls.

The first stall they stop by is occupied by a white mare who walks right up to the door to be pet. Next to her is a larger stall where two brown horses are standing together, rubbing their heads together.

"Oh!" Shiori smiles. "They must be siblings!"

"Is that so?" Michiru muses. "It's nice they get along so well."

"Yes." When the topic is brought up now, Shiori finds herself thinking about her own sister. She and Fumi had worked out their differences by now, but it's just been a while since she'd gotten to see her outside of a ReLIVE or school-related function.

The others seem to know exactly what she's thinking about and quickly try to change the subject.

"Oh, look at this one!" Mei Fan exclaims. "He's so tall!"

"Wow! You're right!" Michiru says. "Shiori, what do you think?"

The horse in question occupies the next stall over. Unlike most of the others, his mane and tail are shorter and more course, and his stature overall is much more muscular. Shiori marvels at the sight of him.

"A Clydesdale!" she squeals. "This is the breed I've always imagined Red Hare to be! It's been so long since I've seen one! He must be 17- no, 18 hands at the withers!"

"18 what now?" Yachiyo puts a finger to her chin. "Shiori, maybe this all makes sense to you, but please explain for the less-knowledgeable."

"Oh, of course! You see, a horse's height is typically measured in hands, which is about 4 inches. The average horse is about 15 hands high at the withers, which just means their shoulder."

"Ah, I see. Thank you, Sensei."

Shiori blushes. "Y-Yachiyo-senpai! I'm younger than you…"

"Maybe, but you're the expert in this field."

"She's right," Akira agrees. "Shiori, you know more about horses than the rest of us combined. Don't hesitate to tell us all you can."

"O…Okay!"

They continue on through the stables at their leisure, pausing at one point to observe two women brushing and rinsing off a horse, who shakes his head and sprays the girls a little bit.

They pass by several more horses, and Shiori tells them all she knows before they find themselves at the other end of the stables.

"That was wonderful, Shiori!" Mei Fan praises her. "I learned so much!"

"Now then," Yachiyo says. "If I recall, there's one more thing we visitors can do here~ Akira-senpai, would you care to lead the way?"

"Right."

"Eh? There's still more?" Shiori squeaks.

"Yup!" Michiru hums. "Is that okay with you? Do you feel up for it?"

"Of course! I just… wasn't sure if you'd all be all right with taking up so much of your day for my sake…"

"Shiori." Akira's firm voice travels back to her and makes her jolt a little.

"Y-Yes?"

Akira sighs, then softens her tone a bit.

"We've told you already. We're more than happy to spend the day with you. No one here is forcing themselves, are we?"

"Not at all!"

"Nope!"

"Negative."

Shiori feels her heart beat a little faster as all four of them pause now to smile back at her.

"See?" Akira says. "We want to do this, Shiori. It's not an inconvenience in any way."

"Totally!" Michiru agrees. "I'm having a ton of fun!"

"Me, too!" Mei Fan nods. "Shiori, I've learned so much already! Horses are truly magnificent!"

"Plus," Yachiyo adds. "We get to see a different side of you, too. It's invaluable."

Shiori can feel a slight stinging behind her eyes now.

"E-Everyone…"

"Ah. We're making her cry."

"Shiori!"

"Don't cry!"

Mei Fan and Michiru move in to hug her first, and Yachiyo is right behind them, patting Shiori's head soothingly. Akira stands back and heaves a sigh, but waits until Shiori has gotten ahold of herself.

"I'm sorry," Shiori sniffles. "I'm just… so happy!"

"Then don't be sorry!" Michiru grins. "Let's go enjoy our last activity!"

"Okay!"

As they walk now, Shiori finds herself in the center of the group just like before, with Akira leading, Mei Fan and Michiru each holding one of her hands, and Yachiyo gently pushing at her back.

Akira takes them away from the main stables and corrals, and instead toward the edge of the property. Several more staff are standing by a dozen fenced-in horses, all with saddles and bridles already fastened on. Shiori blinks curiously at them.

"What's this?"

"You'll see~" Yachiyo hums.

"I'm not sure, either," Mei Fan says. "Only Yachiyo and Akira-san know the full details about this little outing."

"I think I might have an idea though~" Michiru giggles.

Akira holds up a hand for the four of them to stay put as she approaches the workers herself to talk to them. Shiori's eyes have naturally gone to the horses again. About a moment later, Akira gives them all the signal, and they make their way over.

Shiori looks to her upperclassman curiously.

"Yukishiro-senpai, what exactly are we doing?"

Akira smirks.

"Shiori, you didn't honestly think we'd bring you here just so you could look at the horses, did you?"

"Eh? I-I mean-"

"Silly," Yachiyo says, giving her a pat on the back. "We're gonna ride them, too~"

"E-Eh?!" Shiori actually almost shrieks this time, and she has to pull her hands from Mei Fan and Michiru to cover her mouth. "We… We're going to ride them?!"

"Of course~"

"I thought that might be the case," Michiru says. "Good job keeping it a secret, Akira, Yachiyo."

"Oh! That's exciting!" Mei Fan claps. "I can't remember the last time I've ridden a horse!"

Shiori is baffled beyond words for a moment. She just watches as the workers open the fence up to begin leading some of the horses out.

"Shiori?" Michiru taps her shoulder. "Are you okay? Do you maybe not wanna ride after all?"

Shiori is snapped from her trance instantly.

"N-No! Of course I do! I just- I-I didn't expect-"

"All right, all right." Yachiyo gives her back a few more pats. "Don't hurt yourself."

"Shiori," Mei Fan grins. "I've never seen you quite so flustered and happy!"

"All right," Akira calls to them. "They said we can choose which horse we'd like from the five they've selected."

Once Shiori has blinked enough times to realize this isn't just a dream, they bring her up closer to the horses.

"You choose first, birthday girl!" Michiru invites her. "Who speaks to you?"

Shiori fidgets a little as she looks at each horse. They're all different colors, ranging from white to black.

"I-I feel bad to only choose one…"

"I don't think the horses will take any offense," Yachiyo reassures her.

"The four of us will ride the other ones!" Mei Fan reminds her. "So none of them will feel left out!"

Their words make Shiori feel a little better now as she looks over the selection of horses. Ultimately, she can't keep her eyes off of a small grey-and-white speckled mare. She walks up to the horse slowly and offers out her hand, waiting patiently. The mare steps up to her calmly, and Shiori pets her muzzle.

"I think… I'll go with her."

All of her friends nod approvingly.

"That seems fitting."

"Perfect."

"Now then," Yachiyo says. "I think we can all agree on Akira-senpai's horse, no?"

"Oh, absolutely."

"Akira! You gotta take the white stallion!"

"No question about it."

"That's a definite."

Akira raises an eyebrow at the rest of them who are all nodding and content with their decision. She looks to the stallion in question and shrugs.

"I don't mind."

The other girls sigh blissfully, particularly Mei Fan.

"Be still my heart! To see Akira-san riding a white stallion! Truly a dream come true!"

"We're gonna make a lot of people jealous since we get to see it~"

Akira gives them all a puzzled stare, completely oblivious about why this is such a big deal, but she has no qualms with the horse they've decided for her.

Michiru chooses a palomino stallion, while Mei Fan takes a black mare, and Yachiyo decides on the red-chestnut stallion.

When they've all made their selections, the woman in charge instructs them on how to mount. Shiori, Michiru, and Yachiyo use small steps to help boost them up, while Mei Fan and Akira manage it without. The second Shiori is settled in the saddle, a rush of nostalgia comes over her.

"Ah… this is so wonderful!" She pats her horse's neck and gets into the proper posture, lifting herself up just a little as her body naturally remembers all there is to know about horseback-riding. She gazes around at her friends, who are also petting their horses and getting comfortable holding the reins.

Shiori knows these horses are well-trained to follow a specific course and will do as they've learned regardless of what the rider does, as these trail rides aren't meant for experienced riders, but rather just for the enjoyment of the experience. But even so, it makes her indescribably happy to be riding once again, and with her friends, no less.

Their guide gives them all some instructions, the basics about steering and whatnot, and describes the layout of the trail they'll be taking. She leads the group on a dark brown Arabian mare with a black mane and tail. The five other horses fall into line with a bit of nudging from the girls.

Shiori has to admit Akira looks stunning on her white stallion, though he seems to do whatever he pleases, which consternates Akira to no end. He falls into place behind the lead horse, and Shiori nudges her mare forward after them. The horse obeys calmly with a toss of her head, and Shiori gives her a pat. Michiru's spunky palomino comes in behind them, and then it's Mei Fan's excited black mare, while Yachiyo's laid-back chestnut horse brings up the rear.

Shiori's heart is pounding as they start down the path that leads to a small forest beside the property. She just loves the feeling of being supported by a horse, of getting to bond with such an amazing animal, even if only for a short period of time.

And to her relief, as she checks behind her, all of her classmates seem to be having fun as well. And in front of her, even though Akira is struggling a bit, she never once looks as if she isn't enjoying herself to some degree.

The group travels through the forest, which is bright with sunlight and green with foliage. The trail is quiet and peaceful, with birds flying and squirrels scuttling all around them.

Shiori loves everything about horses, but it's the experiences like these that are her absolute favorites. She loves being out in nature, being carried along without feeling like she's being a burden somehow. Even now, her mare walks with her head held higher than a walking horse typically does. Her easygoing but confident personality brings out the same qualities in Shiori, where they'd normally lie dormant.

Shiori sighs, closing her eyes and taking in a deep breath of fresh air while enjoying the warm sunlight filtering through the trees.

Their guide leads them along a path the horses know well, requiring minimal input from the riders so they can enjoy themselves. The girls call out to one another and chat idly as they go, and continue petting their horses all the while.

They pause at a small stream where the horses drink, then get back into formation. All except Akira's stallion who decides to stand around by the water. She grunts as she gives the reigns a slight tug.

"Come now. It's time to go."

"Pff~" Yachiyo chuckles. "Seems he's even more strong-willed than even you are, Akira-senpai."

"I've never seen Akira-san struggle this much before," Mei Fan mumbles.

"Akira! You can do it!"

Shiori giggles just a little, but eventually decides to take action to help. She walks her mare out of line and back toward the stream. Akira gives her a curious glance.

"Shiori? What's this?"

"Let me see if I can help," she smiles. "I think this one can get him to follow along," she says, patting her horse. "I can tell he's still pretty young and lively, so since she's older she might be able to make an impression."

As she speaks, her mare gives a soft snort, and the stallion looks up and takes a step back, almost looking like a child caught messing around when he had work to be doing. Shiori walks her horse around Akira's, putting them between him and the lake and coaxing him to turn back to the others. Slowly, with Akira's coaxing on the reigns, he begins to walk back in line. The other three watch in amazement.

"Whoa…" Mei Fan says. "Shiori, that was amazing!"

"Indeed!" Even their tour guide applauds her. "You know your horses, Miss!"

"Th-Thank you."

Akira looks back to her and nods her appreciation.

"Well done, Shiori."

Shiroi feels her face turning pink, and she bows her had bashfully.

The procession continues on through the woods, until they come to a wide, flat, open path. Their guide explains it used to be for vehicles, but now is only for horses.

"Here is where we canter," she says.

Yachiyo calls out from the back of the group.

"Hey, Shiori? What's that mean?"

"Cantering!" Shiori pipes. "It means we'll get to go a little faster! Not quite a gallop but a bit more than a trot."

"…All right, whatever you say."

Their guide begins first, giving her horse a few kicks to the flanks before the mare takes off down the path. Shiori copies her, and her mare begins speeding up as well. The others' horses all seem to know what to do at this point and start pushing ahead as well, and even Akira's horse follows along properly.

Shiori lifts herself up out of the saddle a bit and leans forward, maintaining a flawless riding position. It doesn't take more than a few bounces for the others to realize they'd best do the same, or else they're going to get very sore very quickly.

The six horses take off down the path, sending up clouds of dust behind them.

The sounds of thundering hooves fills the forest for a few moments. Shiori's heart is pounding from the thrill of it all. She looks back to see all of her friends riding alongside her, their hair all flowing out behind them like the horses'.

They canter for about one full minute before slowing back down to a trot, and then a leisurely walk. Shiori tosses her hair back out of her face.

"Wow! That was so much fun!"

"I agree!" Mei Fan says. "I've never done that before!"

"I thought I was gonna fall off…" Yachiyo mumbles. "But I survived somehow."

"This is gonna be such a great memory!" Michiru sighs.

"Agreed," Akira nods. "And a great experience."

They continue on back through the forest, and then across an open field before the stables are in sight again. When they finally return, the girls dismount. Shiori hops off with ease, then turns back to give her mare a small hug.

"Thank you! I had a wonderful time!"

Akira carefully jumps down from her horse and pats his shoulder.

"I learned a lot. Thank you."

Michiru thanks her horse similarly as Mei Fan slips off her saddle, then goes over to help Yachiyo, who is still a little wobbly.

They all offer their thanks to their guide who waves them off with a smile.

From there, Akira leads them to a vending machine and pays for five bottles of water, refusing to let anyone reimburse her. They all sit together on a bench with Shiori in the middle, and drink as they watch the horses in the fields. When they're finished, everyone lets out a mutual sigh.

"Well?" Michiru prompts. "How was it, Shiori?"

"It was wonderful!" she cries. "I-I can't possibly thank you all enough-!"

"Don't sweat it~" Yachiyo says, twirling her wrist casually. "You deserve it, Shiori."

"Happy birthday!" Mei Fan finally lets loose after holding back all day and throws both arms around her, and had their water bottles not been empty they all surely would've gotten soaked.

"M-Mei Fan-senpai…" Shiori blushes a little, but her usual bashfulness is nowhere to be seen anymore. She's just too happy. So she hugs Mei Fan in return as much as she can. "Thank you!"

"Eh?" Michiru cries. "Shiori's giving out hugs? I want one!" Sitting directly on Shiori's other side, Michiru hugs her next. With a giggle, Shiori hugs her too.

"No fair~" Yachiyo gets up now and stands in front of Shiori, opening her arms with a pout. As Michiru lets her go, Shiori gets to her feet and timidly but happily wraps her arms around Yachiyo's shoulders. Yachiyo squeezes her back, smirking at all the others with eyes that say 'haha, I got her to hug me.' Mei Fan and Michiru glare a little bit, but Akira never backs down from a challenge. She stands with a dead-serious look in her eyes and opens her arms.

"Shiori."

Shiori eases away from Yachiyo and turns to see her king standing like that. Her heart almost stops.

"Y-Yukishiro-senpai?"

"Oh~?" Yachiyo purrs. "Akira-senpai wants a hug, too~"

"Eh? B-But-"

"Shiori! Don't leave her hanging!" Michiru cheers.

"T-To get to hug Akira-senpai…" Mei Fan blushes. "How blessed she is…"

Shiori looks nervously to her king and swallows.

"I-Is it really all right?" she murmurs. "I-I know you planned out and paid for most of this Yukishiro-senpai… A-And I'm not really sure how else I can express my gratitude, b-but I don't want to seem childish…"

"It's fine," Akira grunts. "If you're happy, you should express yourself, Shiori."

She glances to Michiru and Mei Fan, who are nodding eagerly. And Yachiyo gives a light, encouraging push to her back. Somehow, it feels awkward with everyone watching her now, considering Shiori has never voluntarily done anything like this with Akira outside of stage performance.

But as she looks Akira over now, she can see a genuine little sparkle in her eyes. Shiori smiles, then gives a short run before throwing her arms around her shoulders.

"Thank you so much, Yukishiro-senpai!"

Akira folds her arms around Shiori's back and closes her eyes to enjoy the moment.

"Happy birthday, Shiori."

The others watch in breathless, blushing silence, hearts fluttering at such a beautiful sight. When the two finally step apart, the others get to their feet and quickly speak up so no awkward silences occur.

"Well then!" Michiru says. "I guess we should be heading back now."

"Right!" Mei Fan agrees. "Shiori's final surprise should be ready by now."

"E-Eh?" Shiroi cries. "There's more? You didn't have to do so much!"

"But we wanted to~" Yachiyo whines. "Besides, this last one didn't take any effort at all~"

"Agreed," Akira says. "Let's head back now."

Shiori whimpers and blushes as she thanks them all over and over again for the wonderful day they'd given her. They express their gratitude to the staff and take one last look back at all the horses before heading to the bus stop.

They only wait about five minutes before boarding, and on the ride back to the school, Shiori falls asleep on Yachiyo's shoulder.

When they finally arrive back at Siegfeld, Yachiyo wakes her and helps her up.

"Did you sleep enough?" she wonders. "Cuz your final surprise is waiting~"

Shiori blushes again as she looks to the four of them as they make their way off the bus first, having her go last.

"Y-You seriously didn't have to do so much for me! What else could possibly-?"

But as soon as she steps off the bus, Shiori gets her answer. There are five other people in front of her now, not just four. The Edels stand in pairs on either side of their final guest and chant together.

"Happy birthday, Shiori!"

Shiori starts to cry tears of joy immediately.

"Onee-chan!"

Fumi is standing there before her with open arms, and Shiori runs right into them. Fumi laughs, picking her up and giving her a little spin.

"Surprise!" she says. "I was planning on coming by anyway, but then everyone else called me and said they wanted to surprise you like this."

Shiori sobs into her sister's shoulder, a wobbly smile on her lips all the while.

"Onee-chan… I'm so happy to see you!"

Fumi folds her arms more gently around her now.

"Me, too. Happy birthday, Shiori."

Fumi gives an appreciative look to the other Edels now, who all nod to show they're leaving Shiori in her care.

"I'll have her back in time for supper," she vows.

"All right," Akira nods her approval. "Have fun, you two."

By now, Shiori pulls away from her sister to face her classmates, throwing herself forward into a bow.

"Th-Thank you all so much!"

"Don't thank us!"

"Just enjoy your birthday!"

"Anyone have a tissue?"

Luckily, Fumi produces a handkerchief and hands it to her little sister.

The both wave now as they head into town. Shiori gives a tearful, beaming smile back to her fellow Edels before joining her sister as they start down the sidewalk.

"Onee-chan! I can't believe you came!"

"Of course I did. I wouldn't miss your birthday for the world."

"But what about your job?"

"I took off, so don't worry about it. Now, how does some ice cream sound?"

"Wonderful!" Shiroi smiles. "Are you going to put ponzu on yours?"

"Gosh, not you too…"

"I was just joking!"

"Right. Anyways, why don't you tell me why you smell like a farm?"

"Oh! Well you see…"

And so Shiori tells her older sister all about her eventful day as they spend some quality time together over ice cream.

All in all, Shiori's certain it's been the best day of her life.

-----------

A/N: I hope it didn't feel too rushed. I wanted to describe the activities but not take away from the characters' interactions too much... I hope my own inner horse girl didn't manifest too much in this haha

I wanted to keep it Siegfeld-centered so I sort of glossed over Fumi's part, but I absolutely wanted her to be the final surprise for her little sister.

Like I said before, I'd been planning to write the Edels taking Shiori horseback riding already, but when I heard her bday was approaching I figured I'd just write it for that. If only I had the brains to be able to write fics like this for all the girls' birthdays...

Lemme know what you think!