It was a different time when Monster was with Liland. It appears Liland's heart was hopeful and his intentions true when he stole Monster from Rougaru. He lost Zjeena in battle so took Monster as a bargaining chip. It wasn't until after several lost battles and one giant bruise to his male ego, that Liland began to change for the worst. Zjeena isn't sure where Liland lost his way but it was somewhere between his time with Monster and when he won back the Bay. Somewhere in there, his pride became more important than their love.
Zjeena shouldn't be surprised that he would polish his own image after their parting but smearing her name. Zjeena is the whore of Paradise. She is Rougaru's bitch, and after everything that Liland has put her through, she wears her new reputation with pride. Let them think what they will. Zjeena knows her heart. Her path has been twisted, with stretches of darkness and danger alike, but she has moved no direction but forward, and carries no regrets. She would rather be Rougaru's bitch than Liland's idiot.
In all that she lost the day Rougaru stole her from Liland, she has gained so much. Monster may not know the value of their friendship to Zjeena, but it is beyond measure.
Monster's playful words and gesture to match, stretch a broader grin across Zjeena's lips. Monster claims she's sexy when she puts on weight. "Am I now?" Zjeena questions with a raised brow. "You're not lookin' bad yourself, but I expect you to help me get back in shape when the time comes. You think you'll be up for a few practice spars then?"