"How about these kids? They are pretty young, and this is their first time here. They shouldn't be too much trouble, " said the worker.
Anna smiled. In truth she would have been happy with anyone. But having a simple group like that for her first job would make it easier to make a good impression with her bosses.
She trotted over to the group and introduced herself. There were two girls - Sarah and Micah, and two boys - Bruce and Randy. Thankfully, they had all chosen to become riding horses instead of draft horses. She didn't expect any problems from them, but it would be easier to work with smaller horses.
"Why do we need a counselor? " said Randy angrily.
"Being a horse isn't as easy as it seems. If you aren't born a horse it takes while to hone your natural talents. But you aren't required to accept my help. You are free to go off on your own at any time, " said Anna.
The others gave Randy a hard time, and he reluctantly agreed to stay.
"Now the first thing we need to do is learn how to get to know each other. Horses do that by smelling each other's breath, like this .... see, " said Anna, as she pushed her snout against Bruce's and pulled in a powerful whiff from Bruce. She could still smell a little of his human nature, as he had just recently transformed.
"Yuck! I am not going to do that, " said Randy with disgust.
Anna sighed. There was always one bad apple in every bunch. But the others seemed eager to learn, and followed her lessons like good students. As she taught the others how to safely trot and run, Randy hung back and refused to participate.
During a lesson on hygiene, Randy acted rude and ignored her. Anna decided she had had enough of his bad behavior. She leaned forward and gently nipped him on the neck.
"Hey! You bit me! What the hell was that for?" yelled Randy.
"If you had been paying attention, you would know! That was one of the ways horses show dominance. I am your teacher, and if you want to stay in my class you better show me the proper respect, " said Anna angrily.
Randy just ducked his head and looked at the ground sullenly. Anna sighed. "Okay guys, why don't you go practice what I taught you by yourselves. I think I need to have a little talk with Randy .... alone," said Anna.
Once alone, Randy seemed a little different. He wasn't as cocky and self-confident, and he looked a little scared. Maybe she bit him a little too hard. She hoped she didn't get in trouble.
"Okay, Randy. We're alone, so you can speak freely. What's the big deal? You have been giving me a hard time all day, and I have been nothing but nice to you. I know it can be a little boring, but I am only trying to help you. You could have left at any time, but you still stuck around. Come on, tell me what is really bothering you?" asked Anna.
"Well, " said Randy softly, unable to lift his head to meet Anna's eyes, "The truth is ....."