The fire in Mike’s belly spread, until it felt like his entire body was being submerged in acid. He reared up on his hind legs and bellowed in rage, as the pain increased to an incredible level. As he came back down, he felt the pain subside, as a strange numbness suffused his body. He watched in shock as his body began to grow, his muscles becoming huge bulging mountains of flesh, while his entire frame became larger and more powerful. The accursed saddle straps became tighter, but managed to stretch to accommodate his new size. He felt awful and wonderful all at once. When it was all over, his human part looked like a champion bodybuilder, and his equine part was equally impressive.
The farmer that had just purchased him and the potion looked quite pleased. “Excellent work, as always,” he complimented the alchemist, before buying yet another potion. He turned back to Mike. “You’ll be quite an asset on the farm.” The farmer climbed into the saddle on Mike’s back, and began issuing orders where to walk. Mike could not resist, but rather complied with all of the farmer’s directives.
About half an hour later, they arrived at a small farmhouse, several miles outside of town. The farmer directed Mike to the barn and dismounted once they were inside.
The farmer surveyed his purchase once more, a satisfied grin on his face. “Yes sir,” he said, as he ran his hand across Mike’s powerful rump, “you’ll really be a help here. You’re a horse and a man combined – you can pull the plow and wield the scythe! And your new strength just makes you that much better!”