"Rhonda says he wondered why he waited so long to become a stallion" Ethel giggled "And to be honest, so do I! He loves being male. I think every mare in our herd is pregnant now, including me! And he's really good at keeping things running. All the time he was female, he was observing, and he certainly knows the mares better than I ever did."
"Great!" said Sally, "But how do you feel?"
"Remember, I was a female human for fifty years, and I still went back to it even after I drank my vial. It's familiar to me, and it's nice not to have the responsibility of the herd stallion. And I know I'm still Rhonda's first consort. I may feel differently after carrying a foal around in my belly for a few more months! Anyway, how do you feel?"
"Good. I liked being male, but there were things about it that weren't good for me. I don't know if I'll go back after the baby or not. But I feel good now, and I think Darius does too. I never actually had a baby as a human, so I'm excited about it if slightly terrified."
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Before looking for a mate, Darius decided to visit Rose and let her know that her sister was a brother again. Rose was glad to see him, and they chatted a bit about their upcoming babies. "I'm hearing a lot of good things from Mark about Leila" Rose said.
"Yes, she sent us a picture of her with a deer carcass she had killed herself along with her friend Medeina with nothing but teeth and claws--no magic, no technology, nothing. She was really proud. I think Medeina is the first real friend Leila has had. I don't know how much longer she'll stay, though--her powers should be returning in a few weeks."
"And how is Sally taking to being female again?"
"She seems to like it. I think she's excited about having a baby. Hopefully we'll have a better handle on this one than on Leila. How is being a naga working out for Ashley?"
"Good question. She's on her first manhunt, so I'll have a better idea after tonight."
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A half-drunk Minotauress stumbled up to Ashley and stuck out her arm. "Hey Naga, bite me and the next round for you and your friend is on me."