Zjeena has spent the days since her return in quiet contemplation. She's been through a lot over the last few months. While she has come to terms with much of it, the absence of Nattergal and Havelle weighs heavily upon her. She worries too about losing her next foal to Liland. She hasn't even conceived that one yet and it pains her to think about. Zjeena doesn't regret returning to Paradise, but she regrets being so quick to accept Liland's terms. She should have bargained harder, or perhaps just challenged him for her freedom. Now that she's made promises, there is no turning back. Her one consolation is the foal she carries now. This one will not be lost to bargains or possessive fathers. This one light is just enough to illuminate the path moving forward.
She hasn't forgotten her friend here in Paradise, but Zjeena's not sure if Monster is open to company right now. They're both getting ready to foal, and some mares are not receptive to company during their final weeks of pregnancy. After carrying twins in the desert, Zjeena understands how miserable a pregnancy can be.
This pregnancy has been much easier on her. Zjeena is no longer a maiden, and is fairly confident there's only one this time. This climate is favorable to the desert too. Zjeena is looking pretty healthy right now. Her coat is still thick from winter and it's dappled with the good nutrition of Paradise. She is in good flesh (maybe a little too good). She is at least as wide as she is tall. She has developed a little of the pregnant mare waddle, but it hasn't slowed her down much. At least for now, she carries high, leaving room for her legs to move. When her foal shifts into a birthing position, things might change, but for now, Zjeena still gets around.
The little mare gets around well enough that when she hears Monster call for her, she trots to greet her. For so long, Zjeena's been mostly frowns, but a smile tugs at the corners of her lips now. She didn't want to bother Monster, but now that Monster calls for her, she is eager to respond.
She steps out of the shadows of the jungle and onto the shores. She closes the distance between herself and Monster with short, springy strides. Her broad belly swings back and forth. Zjeena halts and greets her friend with a welcoming nicker and an outstretched muzzle.