Monster is Zjeena's rock that she clings to when the tides of her life would drag her under. Their relationship was forged on a battlefield, where they learned more both from and about each other in the span of a few adverse actions that most might in a lifetime of shallow conversation. Since then, Monster has continued to both shape and encourage Zjeena. Monster is a best friend, a sister, sometimes even a lover, depending on the turn of emotion in any given moment. If there's one life she will defend as fiercely as her own, it is Monster's.

Rougaru and Grier are wise not to take Zjeena's actions to heart now. She means nothing by her pinned ears and bared teeth beyond a confession of love for her dearest friend. As Monster has done for her in the past, Zjeena will do this for her now. She stands a steady support physically and beyond, for Monster to lean on as she struggles to her feet to let her newborn colt enjoy his first meal.

The colt, though difficult to birth, is worth every struggle. He is a perfect mix of both mother and father, an adorable combination of their best traits. The observation triggers a wave of anguish. Zjeena's own colts should be Rougaru's. They should have the baroque arch of his neck and his silver fall of mane. Instead, they are pure-bred reminders of Liland's oppression. Zjeena won't resent them for circumstances out of their control, but in this moment, she makes a silent vow to allow no other to mount her. Her next brood, and all thereafter, will have the baroque arch of Rougaru's neck, and his silver fall of mane. Akela will know what it is to have full siblings, and Liland will never again use her body like this.

Rougaru makes his appearance, no doubt drawn by Monster's concerning cries. Zjeena promised never to attack him as she once did, and she keeps her promise, even now, but she never said she wouldn't communicate. The small mare turns her warning from Grier to Rougaru, urging him, with a feral intensity, to keep his distance. Give Monster the space she needs to find her feet and do what she needs to do for her newborn colt.

Grier, respectful as always, quietly takes her leave. The fire in Zjeena's eyes is reserved now only for Rougaru. Her teeth wait, only for his flesh to find itself within reach. She shakes her head at his unwelcome words. She won't hear talk of Monster's death bed, even in jest. No one is dying here tonight.