This long and difficult labor is suddenly worth it. Zjeena wouldn't trade her sore and bleeding body, or the moments she doubted her own survival, because in the end, she is left with this colt. Every mother thinks her own young the most beautiful, but Zjeena should be the only mother who is absolutely correct.
Tender grooming reveals a smoke-colored coat, darkened by the dampness of the womb. He is beauty rising from the flames of Zjeena's and Rougaru's fiery romance. He is strong like his parents. New legs are quick find purchase on the sandy ground. They wobble but they hold. When he looks to her for approval, Zjeena's face is already beaming with it.
Tears begin to fall, a cascade of sweet relief, as she turns to look at her dearest friend. "Thank you, Monster. Thank you for everything." The mare's throat is tight with emotion. She shakes her head, unable to form the words. "No, I wont. Never again.", she seems to say.
Of all the things today has been, a great learning experience is one of them. Zjeena has too much life to live. No hard labor, no sickness, no natural disaster, and no damn war will end her before she is ready. Zjeena may play the role of diplomat, but she houses the soul of a warrior. Surrender is not an option.