Zjeena is sure rumors of her plight have spread both throughout Paradise and throughout the Bay. She is certain not every rumor is true and that not every rumor paints her in a positive light, but Zjeena tries not to care. She should have cared about what those in the Bay though of her while she was leading them, but now that Paradise has welcomed her, she is trying to focus, first on herself, and then only on Paradise. Paradise is her home now, and those who live here are her family. Caring about both herds will only tear her apart, especially since the two are now sworn enemies. Zjeena has chosen her path. Her feet must now not falter.
Zjeena has been separated from her children, but they were no longer at her teat. They were old enough to be weaned, and she raised them to be resourceful enough to take care of themselves. Zjeena misses them dearly, and wishes they parted on their own terms, instead of Liland's, but Zjeena had to get out of the Bay. This move, however difficult, was the best one for her own future, and for the future of hers and Rougaru's child.
The sound of Monster's voice is like sweet music to her ears. She didn't realize how much she missed her friend until they are reunited on the beach just now. Zjeena's ears are pricked forward, and her eyes are alight with joy. Zjeena is tempted to laugh at what Monster says, but she stifles a chuckle, and replies in earnest. "You'll feel better after they're born, but it never gets any easier."
The challenges of a pregnant mare remain purely physical. Once a foal is born, a whole new world of worry and discomfort opens up. Zjeena reflects back on that time that Nattergal and Havelle escaped to the common isle while Zjeena was too tired to notice. She was so upset. What if something had happened to them? Worries like that only get worse as they grow and gain their independence. Don't get her started on nursing either. It's a wonder she didn't kick them off of her every time they chomped down on her sensitive teats like a hungry couple of piranhas.
Zjeena only has to turn her head slightly to see her flank protruding. Maiden mares tend not to show as much, but Zjeena is no maiden and she has carried twins. She could be big enough to be carrying twins again. Her belly is well-stretched. "God I'm fat." She sighs. "I'm never going to be fit again am I?" And now she allows the chuckle she was holding in to escape.