Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

INTRO QUOTE:
"Love isn't something you find. Love is something that finds you"
-Loretta Young
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In a serene, open clearing that rested in the center of a large series of trees, the sound of a mellow moving horse could be heard over a gently flowing stream that ran through the area before the animal came to a complete stop just inside the clearing. A moment later, the owner of said horse dismounted from the saddle and walked off to survey their surroundings before returning just a few moments later, where they were unable to keep themselves from letting out a small snicker at the sight that awaited them upon their return.

GABRIELLE
Uh Xena, a little help.

A smirk crossed Xena's lips as she stood there for a moment and placed her hands on her hips as she tilted her head to the side in an exaggerated manner to look at the odd, yet comical predicament that her companion had managed to get herself into while attempting to get down from Argo's saddle.

XENA
(Joking tone) That's certainly an interesting way to get down from a horse. Not the way I'd do it, but...

Xena shrugged casually as Gabrielle scowled at both the comment and the annoyingly pleased look on the warrior's face.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Don't start with me, Xena. Just help me down from here.

XENA
Well, if you had just waited a minute for me to get back and help you down, you wouldn't be hanging nearly upside-down with your foot caught up in one of Argo's stirrups.

The aforementioned mare snorted as if to agree with her owner as Gabrielle raised her head slightly to look Argo in the eye.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Hey, I don't need you chiming in here.

The bard let her head fall back to its previous position, causing the world and Xena to return to their previous upside-down state. As Gabrielle returned her focus to the dark-haired woman.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Okay, fine, I should've just waited for you to get back, there, you happy? Now can you please get me down from here? I think I can feel all the blood in my body going to my head.

Seeing how red Gabrielle's face was becoming from just what she had said, Xena decided that the fun was over and moved to lift Gabrielle to sit back in Argo's saddle before removing the younger woman's trapped foot from the stirrup.

XENA
Alright, come on.

The warrior reached up as Gabrielle swung one leg over the saddle and let herself drop into Xena's waiting arms who then placed the bard down to stand.

GABRIELLE
Thanks.

Gabrielle grimaced and made a small, slightly painful gasp as she put her full weight on the ankle that had gotten hung up in Argo's saddle and quickly shifted to lean mostly on her other foot. All of which hadn't gone unnoticed by Xena, whose demeanor quickly changed from lighthearted to slightly concerned.

XENA
You twisted your ankle, didn't you?

GABRIELLE
(Lying) I'm fine Xena. It's just a little sore from being tangled in the saddle, that's all. Now let's get the camp set up so I can get started on dinner. I haven't eaten since before we left that inn this morning.

Gabrielle moved to begin to unpack some of Argo's saddle bags, but as she took a step with the foot that had gotten caught, a jolt of pain shot through her ankle, causing her to cry out as she dropped toward the ground but was caught by Xena who prevented her from falling completely.

XENA
(Sarcasm) Oh yeah, you really seem perfectly fine.

Gabrielle let out a defeated sigh as she knew there was no point in trying to debate with the other women over the fact that she was indeed hurting as she quickly found herself being scooped up into Xena's arms as the warrior proceeded to carry her over to a small rock that was several feet away and deposited the younger woman there to sit as she went down to one knee and took Gabrielle's foot before beginning to carefully remove her boot.

XENA
Here, let me take a look at your ankle.

After the boot had been placed to the side, Xena began looking over the bard's ankle to check if she had seriously been injured.

XENA
This hurt?

The warrior carefully felt around the tender area as she gently moved Gabrielle's foot in different directions to check for any breaks as Gabrielle grimaced.

GABRIELLE
A little. But it's really not that bad.

Xena glanced up at Gabrielle to see if she was trying to hide the fact that she was hurting more than she wanted to admit and could tell right away that was indeed the case as she let her eyes fall back to the problem area.

XENA
(Suspicious tone) You sure about that?

GABRIELLE
(Defensive tone) What's that supposed to mean? Why would I lie?

The dark-haired woman raised her eyebrow in sarcasm.

XENA
I don't know Gabrielle, you tell me.

Xena then proceeded to give Gabrielle's ankle a bit more of a firmer grip that while it didn't cause any damage it did send another jolt of pain through Gabrielle's ankle that caused the younger blonde to let out a small, pain fueled yelp as she yanked her throbbing appendage away from the warrior's grasp.

XENA
(Disingenuous tone) Doesn't hurt much, huh?

Xena let a slightly satisfied smirk cross her lips as she received an annoyed look from the other woman in response to her obviously intentional prodding of what she clearly already knew was a highly sensitive area at the moment.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Okay, okay it hurts. You happy?

Xena's face returned serious as she resumed examining Gabrielle.

XENA
I hope that's not a serious question.

The warrior stood and went to their packs for a moment before returning with a spare cloth and knelt once again where she tenderly felt around the ankle in an effort to not cause the other woman any further discomfort.

XENA
You know I don't enjoy seeing you get hurt.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, I know.

XENA
Good.

Xena finished looking over Gabrielle's ankle and placed the injured foot in her lap while she wrapped it snuggly with the cloth to keep it from moving too much just to be safe as she looked up at the blonde.

XENA
(Joking) Even if you do get yourself into situations like today, that could've easily been avoided if you had just listened to what you were told and waited for me to help you down from Argo's saddle like I always do.

Xena smirked as she finished tying the cloth and gave a gentle pat to Gabrielle's ankle before lowering the younger woman's foot to the ground and standing from her kneeling position.

XENA
There, you're just gonna have to try and stay off that ankle for a few days and you'll be fine. Now, if you actually listen this time and stay put, I'll get everything set up and take care of Argo. Then I'll get started on dinner.

Gabrielle didn't have the opportunity to respond before the warrior turned and made her way over to her horse and proceeded to take all of their belongings off the mare's back and, after giving the horse a few pats and affectionate scratches, let Argo go on her way to roam and do as she pleased. Afterward, Gabrielle watched as Xena gathered up their packs and effortlessly carried the somewhat hefty bundles over to where she sat and dropped them at her feet before Xena placed her hands on her hips as she took in the layout of their campsite for the night and decided the best place for everything to go.

XENA
(Thinking out loud) Alright, now for the fire so I can get dinner started, then I'll get the bedding and Gabrielle situated while that's cooking.

GABRIELLE
You know my arms still work perfectly fine Xena. I can at least still cook while you're doing that other stuff.

Hearing Gabrielle's voice interrupt her planning, the warrior looked at the young woman.

XENA
Fair enough. Let me build the fire and we'll get you set up before I do anything else.

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It wasn't too long afterward when Gabrielle was comfortably seated beside a small campfire with her wrapped ankle and foot. She idly stirred the pot of simmering stew she put together from their supplies while watching Xena chopping more firewood after having quickly set up their bedding and the few other things that needed to be done to make sure the two were set for the night.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Boy, Xena really seems to be working extra hard today. I get that my ankles are a little hurt, but she doesn't need to push herself so much.

Gabrielle continued watching the warrior for a bit as Xena fetched the axe from their belongings and began to chop up some large branches that she'd previously gotten from some of the nearby trees to get a bit more firewood to last them the rest of the night before it got dark.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Then again I guess she's always been like this since we've met.

Gabrielle chuckled slightly to herself as she continued her inner monologue while watching Xena swing the axe down to split another piece of wood.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) She's always gone above and beyond for anyone we've come across that needed help. Always jumping in to save anyone who can't stand up for themselves.

A warm smile found its way to the blonde's face.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Just like that day in those woods just outside of Potidaea. Draco's men had raided our village and taken a bunch of us to be sold as slaves.

~~~ FLASHBACK ~~~

HECTOR
Okay, we can do this one of two ways. You can let us have the girls and go back to those hovels you call homes, or we can hack you all into little pieces and take the girls anyway!

The man let out a sinister laugh as a young woman pushed her way to the front of the huddled group of frightened people who had just been forcibly escorted out of their small, quiet village and confronted him.

GABRIELLE
Take me! Let the others go!

HECUBA
Gabrielle!

Ignoring her mother's plea for her to remain silent, Gabrielle stood there defiantly before the much larger, armed man as she tried to bargain for everyone else's freedom.

HECTOR
Nice try! But we'll take you and anybody else we want!

Hector reached out to touch Gabrielle but got his hand knocked away by the young woman, who brought a scowl to the would-be kidnapper's face as he took her persistent defiance personally.

HECTOR
(Sinister tone) I guess it's never too early to start training a slave girl.

With a sneer on his face, Hector held out his hand and was handed a whip by one of his fellow slavers. Gabrielle's eyes went wide in fear as the man raised his arm to strike her. Hector was just about to bring down the whip when he suddenly felt his arm being grabbed and like Gabrielle, looked to see a tall, dark-haired woman who had suddenly emerged from the nearby bushes.

~~~ PRESENT~~~

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) And then suddenly there she was.

Gabrielle's smile unknowingly grew as she reminisced over her and Xena's first time meeting and how she had heroically rescued not only her, but everyone so close to being forced into a horrible life of forced servitude as another piece of wood was split by the present warrior standing several feet away and Gabrielle's mind continued its replay of the fateful day that had brought the warrior into her life.

~~~ FLASHBACK ~~~

Though not knowing who the mysterious woman who had just appeared was, Gabrielle watched while keeping a firm grip on Hector's wrist, the other woman swiftly drove her knee into his midsection and caused him to double over before sending that same knee into his face and knocking him to the ground. Hector scowled as he scrambled back to his feet and angrily shouted to the other slavers.

HECTOR
(Angry tone) Round up the girls.

As the other men began to move toward Gabrielle and the other captives, Hector motioned to a pair of slavers who were standing near him to follow his lead as he drew his sword.

HECTOR
(Angry tone) We'll take care of this one.

The small group of men moved toward the dark-haired woman and, assuming that they had the upper hand, charged the unarmed woman. One man brought his arm down to slash at the woman but instead had it caught before it was twisted as the woman held on to it as she drove a powerful fist into the side of his face and dropped him to the ground before spinning around with a kick to hit another armed assailant in the jaw and knocking him to dirt as well.

~~~ PRESENT~~~

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I remember being so in awe of what I was seeing. She ended up forcing those guys to retreat and, in turn, saved us all. Sure, I had heard stories of all sorts of different heroes, but I'd never seen or heard of anyone like her. Especially not a woman. Being from such a small village like Potidaea, even in all my daydreaming of a life of adventure I never imagined that there could be someone like Xena. And who would have thought that after that day, we'd be here today? Me and Xena were on the road doing things that I never would've ever thought to imagine possible had I stayed in Potidaea. And even though things aren't always easy, I can't imagine being anywhere else than traveling with Xena. Who could've thought that someone like me could have someone like her for a friend? No, a best friend.

?
Hey, you okay?

GABRIELLE
Huh?

Feeling a touch on her shoulder, Gabrielle was pulled out of her thoughts to see Xena crouching beside her as she unloaded an armful of freshly chopped firewood next to where Gabrielle sat.

XENA
I was asking if everything was okay.

Gabrielle suddenly felt her face get slightly warm, though she was unsure why, as she averted her eyes from the other woman and pretended to brush something off her shirt in an attempt to act casual for reasons unknown to her at the moment.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, everything's fine, Xena. Why do you ask?

Gabrielle watched as the dark-haired woman picked up a piece of cloth and used it to reach over and pick up the pot that the blonde had forgotten about and was now billowing smoke as the stew she'd been cooking began to burn. Seeing this, Gabrielle let out a quick, somewhat embarrassed chuckle.

GABRIELLE
I guess dinner's done.

The young woman waved her head over the pot to get rid of the smoke and looked inside to see that most of the contents had either been badly singed or were burned completely black.

GABRIELLE
Or I guess well done is more like it.

Xena sighed as she set the pot of burnt food aside and stood up to walk over to their packs as she knelt and began to rummage through them.

GABRIELLE
Sorry, Xena, I guess I got lost in my thoughts.

XENA
Uh-huh.

Half listening to the blonde, the warrior found what she was searching for among their things and pulled out a small burlap sack before returning to the campfire and sitting down near Gabrielle. Then after looking inside for a moment, Xena reached into the sack and retrieved a sizable chunk of cheese, and took a big bite before setting the pouch down next to her as Gabrielle watched her chew.

GABRIELLE
Hey, you wanna toss some of that over here?

Xena smirked.

XENA
(Sarcasm) What you don't want any of that definitely edible stew you worked so hard on cooking?

GABRIELLE
Come on, I said I was sorry. Now give me some.

XENA
(Teasing tone) Give me? Now Gabrielle, where are your manners?

GABRIELLE
Come on Xena.

The blonde narrowed her eyes at the other woman but could tell from her devilish grin that Xena wasn't just going to give in and between her stomach growling and the way Xena had been so attentive toward her since twisting her ankle, Gabrielle decided to just play along and sighed.

GABRIELLE
Alright, please, Xena, would you pass me some?

Xena shrugged casually as she took another bite.

XENA
I'll think about it.

The smirk on the warrior's face grew as Gabrielle opened her mouth to express her now increasing frustration with the woman only to have the small satchel tossed her way. Catching the bag, the younger woman shook her head as a small smile to match Xena's formed on her face, and the two enjoyed their quiet evening meal.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

XENA
Hey, you almost done with that?

GABRIELLE
Yup.

Gabrielle looked up from the scroll she had been working on since finishing eating and, for the first time, realized how dark it had gotten from when she had started.

GABRIELLE
Looks like just in time too.

The younger woman stretched as she sat up straight as she watched Xena run a sharpening stone across the edge of her sword and then inspect its edge as she spoke without looking at the bard.

XENA
Good. We'll need to get up early if we plan on reaching Athens anytime soon.

GABRIELLE
Why's it important that we get to Athens?

Xena shrugged casually.

XENA
Not particularly important, I just figured you'd rather not spend an extra night sleeping on the ground..

GABRIELLE
You mean a night at an inn with hot water and a nice, comfortable bed? Yes, please.

The warrior shook her head in mock disapproval as she smirked at Gabrielle's excitement as the younger woman rolled up her scroll and put it along with her other writing supplies away in the small satchel where she usually kept them so they wouldn't get ruined while packed in with the rest of her and Xena's other belongings.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Ah, that's better.

Xena stretched her tall body out on the blanket as she settled down for the night after finishing one last patrol over the area.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) After such a long day of traveling, I'm surprised that she stayed up so late.

The warrior looked over at Gabrielle who appeared to be asleep on another blanket not far from her. noticing that she'd been watching the blonde for a few moments, Xena quickly shifted her focus elsewhere as she pushed aside the peaceful image of Gabrielle's face along with the reason it had seemingly captivated her in the first place.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I need to get some sleep. I must've done too much and stayed up too late.

Not putting any further thought into it, Xena turned to her side and faced away from Gabrielle as she eventually drifted off to sleep not noticing that the other woman was in fact not asleep as Gabrielle rolled to face Xena's back unable to sleep due to the thoughts that had been keeping her awake at night for quite some time.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Today would have been the perfect time to do it but yet again I just couldn't seem to say it. Why? I've never been afraid to speak my mind when it comes to anything. Yet for some reason when it comes to this I just can't.

Gabrielle sighed quietly as she shook her head to clear her thoughts and turned away from the woman laying beside her.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Come on Gabrielle, who are you kidding this is Xena you're taking about. She's my friend. And besides it's not like anything else between us would ever work. We're just too different. No it'll never be anything more than Xena and I being friends.
(Thinking to herself/ lying) And that's okay.

Gabrielle looked over at the warrior once more before turning away again and closing her eyes to go to sleep.

Soon after, a set of blue eyes peeked open after Xena noticed a shift in Gabrielle’s breathing that told her that the blonde was asleep. As many skills as the warrior might have, if being able to know what was in other people’s hearts was one, she would have known that everything she refused to allow herself to express toward the woman laying beside her was returned. But both women had remained silent about what they truly felt for each other for their own reasons, The coming days would bring about a chaos that would change everything that had been between them.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

It was a couple of days later as Xena and Gabrielle continued their travel on the road to Athens. A trip that was taking a little longer than Xena had anticipated due to Gabrielle's sore ankle, along with a bout of bad weather that had brought their venture to a stop when heavy rains forced the two to take shelter from the downpour. But with Gabrielle's ankle feeling better and the sun shining bright overhead, it now looked to be smooth sailing ahead. Or, for the most part, at least, as Xena had noticed that something about Gabrielle seemed a little off. Something that she couldn't quite put her finger on, and wasn't sure how or if she should even bring it up. After all, Gabrielle was the more talkative and open one of the two of them. So Xena figured if there truly was something bothering the young woman, she'd undoubtedly hear about it sooner rather than later. So, instead of bringing up a potentially unpleasant conversation, the warrior decided to just keep any conversation she made casual.

XENA 
How's that ankle feeling? It's not sore or swollen, is it? 

Hearing Xena's voice interrupt the quiet daydreaming she'd fallen into but not catching what she had said, Gabrielle looked toward the taller woman who was walking beside her.

GABRIELLE 
Huh?

XENA 
Your ankle, Gabrielle. How's it feeling?

GABRIELLE 
Oh.

Gabrielle raised her previously injured ankle out in front of her and rotated it.

GABRIELLE 
Much better actually.

XENA 
You sure? Because when I asked after you first got hurt...

Gabrielle put her foot down and turned to face the dark-haired woman.

GABRIELLE 
Look, I know I tried to hide that I was hurt before, but I really am fine now.

The blonde picked up her other foot to stand just on the ankle that had been hurt.

GABRIELLE 
See?

Xena studied Gabrielle for any indication that she was experiencing discomfort and was silently relieved to not see any before the other woman returned to standing normally.

GABRIELLE 
I'm fine. Now will you stop worrying?

Convinced that Gabrielle's ankle was indeed okay, Xena decided to let the discussion about it go.

XENA 
Fine. 

The two continued walking with Argo not far behind as Gabrielle tried to keep the conversation going with the typically quiet warrior woman and changed topics 

GABRIELLE 
So about how much further do you think we have 'til we get to Athens?

XENA 
Shouldn't be too long. Maybe a day and a half. Two if we run into more trouble or bad weather.

Gabrielle let out a small, sarcastic huff.

GABRIELLE 
(Joking tone) Well given that it's us, I wouldn't be surprised if we run into enough problems that it takes us another week before we get there.

Then suddenly, as if on cue, just as the words left Gabrielle's lips several voices came from the distance that caught both her and the warrior's attention.

GABRIELLE 
What's that?

Xena looked toward the source of the sound.

XENA 
Not sure but it sounds like there's a pretty big group coming our way.

Motioning for the younger woman to stay put, Xena stepped forward several feet as she focused her hearing on the unknown noise heading their direction. 

GABRIELLE 
Xena?

Gabrielle watched as Xena crouched down and placed her hand flat to the ground and saw a scowl appear on the woman's face.

GABRIELLE 
What is it?

XENA 
Trouble.

Quickly standing up, Xena reached over her shoulder and drew her sword before turning her attention to Gabrielle and grabbing Argo's reins.

XENA 
Quick, into the bushes.

GABRIELLE 
What? Why?

Xena began moving with the mare into the nearby trees and bushes to get out of sight, and was about to say something when both she and Gabrielle heard a man's voice shouting, telling Gabrielle the reasoning for the sudden heightened alertness that Xena had taken on, causing the blonde to hastily follow the other woman without any further questions.

SOLDIER 
This way. Kill 'em!

Under cover of the trees, both women stood silently; each pressed up against a large truck as a large group of armed soldiers came from up ahead and marched through the area. It was obvious that they were on the move for battle. Something that, despite her lack of firsthand experience on such things, it was just as clear to Gabrielle as it was to a battle-tested warrior like, Xena what was happening as the two waited several long minutes in silence for the soldiers to pass and move out of the immediate area.

GABRIELLE 
Maybe we should take the southern route.

Once the coast was clear, both women moved out from hiding, and Gabrielle walked over to where Xena stood with Argo as the younger woman looked in the direction that the soldiers had gone.

XENA 
This is the shortest route to Athens.

GABRIELLE 
Yeah, but if there's a war going on here, I'm not sure how much faster it can be if we have to keep dodging two armies.

Gabrielle shook her head in sadness.

GABRIELLE 
War, it's just so senseless.

Knowing from the time they had now been together on the road how much things like this bothered her friend, Xena placed a comforting hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.

XENA 
This one's more senseless than most. It's a civil war; brother against brother. 

GABRIELLE 
But why? What's so important here that's worth fighting and killing their own people?

XENA
Same reason we're here. This forest is the only way between Thessaly and Mitoa. So whoever controls it, controls...

A sudden noise cut Xena off as she held her sword ready and moved toward another group of bushes to investigate as Gabrielle followed. Then motioning for the younger woman to stay quiet, Xena cautiously reached out and pushed aside the plant life to find a shocking sight that neither she nor Gabrielle would have expected to find in the middle of the war-torn area.

GABRIELLE 
Ephiny?

Surprised to find her Amazon friend in the area, Gabrielle looked around for signs of any other of her Amazonian sisters but quickly realized that Ephiny had clearly come alone; otherwise, there would surely be someone with her. 

XENA 
That's a pretty nasty gash. Fortunately, it's not life-threatening.

The warrior sheathed her weapon as she moved to crouch beside the Amazon to examine her condition as concern fell over the warrior after having easily taken notice of Ephiny's drastically enlarged belly from the last time they had met.

XENA 
Your baby, it's just about due.

EPHINY 
The pains started not long ago.

While letting Xena continue her examination, Gabrielle knelt beside the curly-haired Amazon.

GABRIELLE 
What are you doing here so far outside of Amazon territory?

Ephiny took a breath as she fought through a bout of sharp labor pain and waited a moment for it to pass before answering.

EPHINY 
Phantes and I were on our way to Athens. We wanted the baby to be born there.

Hearing the Centaur's name and realizing he was nowhere to be seen, Xena questioned the Amazon woman about his whereabouts.

EPHINY
He was trying to find a safe way around the battle. But he... 

Ephiny paused for a moment as both Xena and Gabrielle could see a look of grief fall over the Amazon's face.

EPHINY 
(sad tone) ...was captured and killed by Mitoan's. I've been hiding here since. I think for two or three days. I'm not sure. He was killed trying to protect me. 

The woman looked down as she fought the tears building from her heartbreak and guilt.

GABRIELLE 
It's not your fault, there's nothing you could've done like this.

Gabrielle took her friend's hand to offer what small comfort she could.

GABRIELLE 
Plus, why would they even attack you or Phantes in the first place? 

XENA 
It's war, Gabrielle. And Phantes got in the way.

Gabrielle shook her head in disgust before looking over to the dark-haired warrior.

GABRIELLE 
(Slightly angry tone) Well, someone has to stop it. How many innocent people need to suffer because of this madness? 

XENA 
You're right Gabrielle. Something does need to be done.

With a look of determination, Xena stood and moved to retrieve Argo.

XENA 
Stay here with Ephiny.

Not liking where she thought Xena's mind was going, Gabrielle quickly reached out to take Xena's arm causing the warrior to stop and look back at her.

GABRIELLE 
Wait, where are you going?

XENA
I'm gonna find a safe place for Ephiny to have her baby. And then I'm gonna stop this war.

Gabrielle looked at the older woman in disbelief as she let go of her..

GABRIELLE 
Xena, you can't be serious. I get that you're capable of doing things that no one else can, but even you can't stop a war single-handedly.

Turning away from Gabrielle, Xena looked over her shoulder and uttered three simple words to the young woman before turning her attention ahead and walking off with a purpose in her steps.

XENA 
Just watch me.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

?
Gabrielle? Gabrielle?

GABRIELLE
Huh.

Gabrielle looked at Ephiny who was seated against a tree after hearing the Amazon calling her name.

GABRIELLE
Sorry Ephiny. Are the pains getting worse? Is there something I can do?

EPHINY
No. It's about the same as it's been.

Ephiny took a breath as she got through another contraction and shifted slightly to try and get a little more comfortable where she was sitting, as she and Gabrielle waited for Xena to return from scouting out the wartorn area that the trio had unfortunately wandered into at the wrong time.

EPHINY
But maybe that's a question I should be asking you.

GABRIELLE
What do you mean?

EPHINY
Come on Gabrielle, I know we don't see each other often but I can still tell when you're not acting like yourself. So, do you wanna talk about what's on your mind?

GABRIELLE
I don't know what to say.

Gabrielle sighed as she walked over and sat beside the Amazon.

GABRIELLE
It's Xena. She. I mean I...

The young woman paused not knowing what to say as she leaned back as she looked up at the sky leaving Ephiny to try and piece together what she was trying to say.

EPHINY
I wouldn't worry too much Gabrielle. I know she's your friend but this is Xena we're talking about here. I'm sure she'll be fine.

Gabrielle shook her head slightly.

GABRIELLE
It's not that I'm worried.

Gabrielle returned her eyes toward Ephiny who she could tell didn't believe her.

GABRIELLE
Okay, maybe I am a little. But that's not anything different from normal.

EPHINY
Then what? Are things not going well between you two?

GABRIELLE
What? No. Things have been great.

Gabrielle smiled softly as she looked down at her foot.

GABRIELLE
Even if I did injure my ankle not too long ago.

Finding herself confused by Gabrielle's expression as the younger woman talked about getting hurt, Ephiny quietly waited a moment for Gabrielle to continue.

GABRIELLE
But you should've seen how Xena took care of me when I got hurt. She didn't even think twice before she was doing everything she could to make sure I was comfortable.

The young woman chuckled slightly.

GABRIELLE
She actually does stuff like that all the time. She always seems more than willing to do things just to make me happy. Even if it sometimes means she has to go out of her way. Xena's just so caring and thoughtful like that. And that's on top of everything else she does with helping all the other people we inevitably come across. You know Xena really is amazing. I'm lucky to be her friend.

Ephiny watched as Gabrielle finished speaking and her smile faded and she began to have suspicions as to what might be bothering the young woman.

EPHINY
But you wish you were something more.

Gabrielle nodded slightly.

EPHINY
I'm guessing you haven't told Xena how you feel.

GABRIELLE
No.

EPHINY
Why not? I never would've taken you to be shy about anything.

GABRIELLE
I'm not. I just... I'm worried that if I do tell her, everything between us will change and if she doesn't feel the same...

Gabrielle paused, not wanting to finish the thought.

EPHINY
You don't wanna risk losing her as a friend.

GABRIELLE
Yeah.

Ephiny winced as she felt another contraction and Gabrielle's focus shifted back to making sure her friend was okay, as she looked out for any sign of Xena so they could get Ephiny somewhere safe.

GABRIELLE
But that's not important right now. Just hang in there a little longer Ephiny. Hopefully Xena will be back soon and we can get you and your baby somewhere safe.

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GABRIELLE
You don't think they'll attack a temple do you?

XENA
That's the hope.

Both Xena and Gabrielle helped Ephiny down from Argo's saddle where she had been riding, after Xena came to get her and Gabrielle once she had finished her analysis of the situation surrounding the war.

GABRIELLE
And what about him?

Gabrielle nodded toward the injured high ranking soldier that Xena had come back with.

XENA
Don't worry about that, I'll deal with him later.

Xena glanced over at the captive and got a scowl from the man in return as he tried to hide the pain from the stab wound in his shoulder that he received from the warrior woman.

XENA
First let's get Ephiny inside.

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Inside of the temple, Gabrielle helped Ephiny into a bed as Xena attempted to drag the captured soldier in behind her until he pulled away.

XENA
Oh no, Marmax, you're not going anywhere.

The warrior swiftly grabbed his armor and shoved him ahead.

XENA
(Stern tone) You stand there and don't even think about trying anything.

MARMAX
Are you insane?! I'm a Mitoan! This is a Thessalian healing temple.

XENA
Well, you need to be healed, don't you? So you're going in.

MARMAX
You obviously know nothing of war. The Thessalians are the enemy of the Mitoans. They'll kill me on sight!

XENA
Don't be ridiculous, these people won't kill you.

The dark-haired woman gripped Marmax's shoulder and moved forward. Forcibly pushing him further into the temple.

XENA
(Dry tone) You're good slave material.

GUARD
Hault.

Hearing the voice, the small group stopped as Xena, Gabrielle, Ephiny and Martax looked to see a large armored man approach them.

GUARD
This is a place of worship, what brings you here?

XENA
We have an injured man and a pregnant woman who need assistance.

The guard looked at the group and then behind him at the large room that was already full of injured people who had been displaced by the ongoing conflict before returning his attention to Xena.

GUARD
Well as you can see we have a lot on our hands here already and we're running short on people able to do anything.

GABRIELLE
Well ,two of us here don't need any medical attention. So we caould help.

The guard studied Gabrielle then Xena for a moment, as he weighed his opinions before deciding and turning around.

GUARD
This way.

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Inside the temple was a chaotic scene as Xena and Gabrielle checked on Ephiny's condition.

XENA
Here. How're you holding up?

Xena eased the Amazon down to the bed.

EPHINY
Not good. I'm so tired and my soul feels like it's been sliced by a razor.

XENA
I'm sorry Ephiny, I know Phantes is gone, but what you and he created is within you, ready to come
out into the world. You have to go on.

GABRIELLE
Don't forget you're not alone. Your friends and your family are right here with you.

EPHINY
My Family?

GABRIELLE
Hey, I'm you sister Amazon, remember?

A small smile managed to work its way onto Ephiny's face

GABRIELLE
You have nothing to worry about Ephiny. Xena and I will take care of you.

Though feeling a bit of relief that Ephiny was safe for the time being, the comforting moment was quickly interrupted when a painful cry rang through the temple, which caught Xena and Gabrielle's attention, causing the pair to finally take in just how dire the situation within the crowded safe haven was as Gabrielle looked around at the numerous injured people that were occupying the beds, chairs and even places on the floor.

XENA
Gabrielle, stay with Ephiny, I'm gonna go see what I can do.

Xena moved through the chaotic scene looking for whoever needed to be tended to first when a man's painful cry caught her attention, and she hurried over to where a priest that was trying to move an injured man.

XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) Put him down! Can't you see he's in terrible pain?

The priest looked at Xena.

?
But we need to move him to the altar so the gods can heal him.

Xena sighed in annoyance of how many people put what she believed to be far too much faith in the gods for anything. Especially since in her own personal experience the gods in general were always more of a hindrance than anything. And that was if they even bothered with humanity at all.

XENA
What's your name?

HIPPOCRATES
I'm Hippocrates.

XENA
Well, Hippocrates, a man with a wound like this shouldn't be moved.

HIPPOCRATES
But Aesclepius, the God of Medicine, has to grant Galen with the knowledge and Medicine on the ltar! So we have to move him, it's Galen's orders

Xena looked over to see another man dressed in priest robes standing near the altar.

XENA
Is that Galen?

HIPPOCRATES
Yes.

The raven-haired woman swiftly marched over to the priest.

XENA
That injured man you ordered to be placed on the altar can't be moved.

The priest looked at the woman confused.

GALEN
And who are you?

XENA
Someone who's spent a lot of time healing on the battlefield. And you could help a lot more people if you spent more time with them and less with your god.

Galen scoffed.

GALEN
Am I supposed to believe some random harlot knows more about healing than the priests of Aesclepius?

Xena scowled at the man's pompous attitude.

XENA
(Irritated tone) This one does.

More shouting broke the tense moment between them as Xena's attention was pulled to a man with an arrow lodged in his throat and quickly moved to try and save him as she called over Gabrielle to help. As the day continued on Xena took over giving instructions to the priests and any other able-bodied people in an effort to help as many people as they could. Even if it weighed heavily on some when there were some patients who were too bad of shape to be saved.

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GALEN
(Angry tone) You vile woman! What have you done to my temple?!

XENA
Is there a problem?

Xena looked up from the injured woman she was working on as the enraged priest stormed up to her.

GALEN
(Angry tone) You have a Mitoan on our altar! And you're murdering our soldiers!

Galen looked to the soldiers he brought over.

GALEN
(Angry tone) She must be stopped!

Pointing at Xena, the priest ordered the soldiers to force her out of the temple. Ready to defend herself, Xena reached over her shoulder for her sword but when she didn't find it there she was reminded that she had used it to brace a broken leg, earlier and was forced to duck out of the way of one of the soldiers swings as she shifted to taking down the soldiers unarmed. A punch to the face of one and a knee to the stomach followed by an elbow to the back of another man's neck after he was forced to bend forward, she easily dropped two of her attackers. Another soldier charged her, and Xena stopped his attack with one hand and grabbed a handful of his hair with the other before forcing his head down as she swiftly raised her knee and drove it straight into the center of his face breaking his nose and knocking him to the floor. Then standing there amongst the crumpled soldiers, Xena set her sights on the priest who had sicked them on her.

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) If you want me out of here Galen, you're gonna have to do better than that. Or do you like seeing people die?

GALEN
(Angry tone) I am a priest of Aesclepius, I've devoted my life to stop human suffering. You're the one who stormed in here with your absurd ideas on healing and an appalling lack of respect for the gods!

XENA
(Angry tone) What you do isn't healing. All you do is sit and wait for some god to help out when he feels like it, while the sick and injured who come to you for help die.

The priest stood there in silence for a moment not knowing how to respond as Xena's attention was again drawn to a more pressing matter at hand when she heard someone else shouting.

GABRIELLE
I can't stop the bleeding!

The young woman began to panic as she pressed the cloth she held tighter against a man's deep wound as Xena moved to stand on the other side of the bed to help.

XENA
Tie it off and then get a bandage on it tight.

Gabrielle quickly did as Xena instructed, and then continued trying to stop the bleeding until she noticed that the man had stopped breathing.

GABRIELLE
No... Breathe. Come on... Breathe.

The young woman began shaking the still man as she continued to try to wake him.

GABRIELLE
Come on... Breathe. Breathe!

XENA
Gabrielle, stop.

Xena placed her hand over Gabrielle's and stopped her from continuing.

XENA
(Soft tone) Stop. It's over, you have to let him go.

The blonde lowered her head in defeat for a moment before raising her tearful eyes to look at the other woman.

GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) But why? We worked so hard. We did everything we could but why wasn't it still not enough?

XENA
It's not your fault Gabrielle. He lost too much blood. There wasn't anything that anyone could do

GALEN
See, I told you that only Aesclepius can choose who lives and dies. Maybe now you'll finally pay proper respect to his almighty power.

Xena scowled as the priest walked over to her.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Your god had nothing to do with it.
(Somber tone) He lost too much blood. It's as simple as that.

GALEN
And you can't heal that, now can you?

XENA
(Somber tone) No, I can't.

Satisfied that he had appeared to have proven his point, Galen walked off leaving Xen,a who pushed her own emotions about the situation aside, and instead turned her focus to Gabrielle who was just standing next to the man they couldn't save.

XENA
Come on.

Feeling Xena put a hand on her upper back, Gabrielle took her eyes off the body she'd been staring at to look at the warrior woman.

XENA
Let's go sit down. Things are running smoothly for the moment so I think we can take a break.

GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) I'm sorry Xena. I tried. I really did.

XENA
It wasn't your fault. Death's an inevitable part of this work. That's just something you're gonna have to get used to.

GABRIELLE
I know. Sometimes it's just hard to remember that. But I'm not gonna give up in trying to do whatever I can to help these people.

Giving Gabrielle's shoulder a gentle, reassuring squeeze, Xena smiled slightly as they spent the next few moments in silence before Xena realized she had been staring at the other woman, and moved her hand away.

XENA
I should get back to work. If you're up to it, why don't you go check on some of the people who've been worked on and see how they're doing.

GABRIELLE
Sure.

Xena watched Gabrielle stand up and walk away as the high ranking officer, Marmax, came over to where she still stood.

XENA
You know people like us can learn a lot from people like her.

MARMAX
Indeed. She's a lovely young woman.

Xena kept her eyes on Gabrielle for another few moments as the soldier stood next to her also watching the blonde.

XENA
Yes, she is.

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It was getting late in the day as Gabrielle made her way through a series of beds to check on people when she was stopped by a man who had grabbed her arm in obvious desperation

WOUNDED MAN
Miss, please. Someone has to go out there and get my little boy. Please. He wasn't brought in. He's still out there, alone. Someone has go get him.

GABRIELLE
Okay. Where is he?

WOUNDED MAN
He was by the stand of trees, near the river. I told him to hide there when I saw the enemy coming our way.

Gabrielle put her hand on the man's forearm to try and comfort him.

GABRIELLE
Don't worry, I'll find him.

WOUNDED MAN
Thank you.

And with that Gabrielle left the temple to search for the missing boy in the hopes that it wouldn't be too late.

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Unaware of Gabrielle leaving due to being kept busy taking care of a series of serious injuries that had recently been brought into the temple, Xena looked up from the patient she was just finishing working on when she heard a commotion and saw what she figured was yet another batch of injured people being brought in.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Is there no end to them?

Xena watched for a moment as more people filled in until she saw a man push through the crowd as he called for someone to help while carrying a battered, limp body in his arms that caused Xena's heart to sink when she saw who the man was holding in his arms.

XENA
Gabrielle.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

There was a new wave of chaos in the temple as more injured people were being brought in. But for all the new arrivals in need of treatment, Xena's sole focus in that moment was Gabrielle as she rushed over to the soldier who was carrying her.

XENA
Gabrielle.

Looking at the young woman, Xena could see that she had multiple cuts and bruises all over her body and hoped that the extent of Gabrielle's injuries weren't actually as bad as they appeared.

XENA
Here, put her down.

The warrior quickly moved to the nearest open bed and motioned for who brought her in to lay her there so she could look her over.

XENA
It's okay, Gabrielle. Just relax. You're safe.

Xena cupped Gabrielle's cheek as she let her thumb gently brush a fresh bruise that had begun to form, and tried to reassure herself that the young bard would be okay.

XENA
You're safe now.

After standing there for a long moment as she took in the terrible state that Gabrielle was in, Xena set her focus to what needed to be done and proceeded with her examination and treatment of the other woman.

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It was a while later, as Xena finished stitching up yet another wound. She then shouted out instructions to someone else that was tending to another patient, who had been brought in at the same time as Gabrielle.

XENA
Make sure that soldier doesn't fall asleep. If he does, he may never wake up.

GALEN
If she had hit him an inch lower, she could've killed the monster.

Xena dipped her hands into a nearby bucket of water as she washed her last patient's blood from her hands.

XENA
Gabrielle knew that, that's why he's still alive.

MARMAX
Are you telling me that she'd rather die, than take the life of a man she doesn't even know?

XENA
Gabrielle lives by her own code. That code doesn't include killing.

MARMAX
As I said before, a girl like that should not be brought into a war zone.

Xena didn't say anything as a part of her agreed with the soldie,, and instead decided to go check on Gabrielle.

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Feeling a light touch on her arm, Gabrielle opened her eyes to see Xena standing beside the bed where she laid.

XENA
(Soft tone) Hey, I didn't wake you did I?

Gabrielle opened her heavy eyes.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena, where's Ephiny?

XENA
Ephiny?

Xena motioned over her shoulder.

XENA
She's just over there.

EPHINY
Actually I'm right here.

Hearing the Amazon's voice, Xena turned slightly to see the woman walking over to Gabrielle's bed.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Good.

The bard looked at the Amazon, as she continued to speak.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) I want... I want you to take my... my right of caste.

Both Ephiny and Xena looked at each other for a second, neither liking the way Gabrielle was talking, before the Amazon returned her attention to the young woman in bed.

XENA
Stop talking like that Gabrielle, you're...

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena, don't.

Gabrielle cut the warrior off before she could go any further with her insistance that she would recover from her injuries.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) I know you don't wanna hear it, but this is important.

Gabrielle's attention returned to Ephiny.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Please Ephiny, I want you to have it. I won't be needing it soon enough.

Having already lost so many of her Amazon sisters from various conflicts, and then the father of her unborn child just a few days prior to the horrific war they were unwillingly stuck in the middle of, Ephiny was determined not to lose yet another person that she cared for. However, at the same time she felt that if Gabrielle was to succumb to her injuries, how could she deny her fellow Amazon and friend her final request to give her something so important to not only their people, but to Gabrielle herself?

EPHINY
(Somber tone) Gabrielle.

Ephiny looked at Xena who she could tell was about to interrupt the unpleasant conversation, but was herself interrupted when a messenger came running through the temple until he found the head priest that was standing nearby.

MESSENGER
Galen, the Mitoans are on the move. They're coming this way. What do we do?

Hearing the news, and taking stock of the influx of injured that had come into the temple recently, Xena realized what must've been happening.

XENA
They must smell victory. They'll destroy anything in their path at this point.

The head priest scowled.

GALEN
(Stern tone) Well, I'm not leaving. They won't dare desecrate my temple!

Xena looked at the priest.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Fine, you can be a martyr and die to protect a building, meanwhile we'll take care of getting the the people out out of here that you say your faith would have you help

HIPPOCRATES
I'll get the walking patients out of here.

The warrior glanced at the younger priest as he hurried off to begin helping people evacuate before looking back to the head priest.

XENA
Well at least one of you seems to practice what you preach.

Not having a retort for Xena's comment, Galen scowled and without a word stormed away as Xena joined the others in doing whatever they could to save the people who were too injured to be moved.

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With the less critically injured people out of the temple and what defenses that could be mustered set up, Xena stood over Gabrielle who was asleep for the moment. Standing against the wall across from her, Marmax could see the clear worry on the warrior woman's face as she glanced up at him.

XENA
(Somber tone) You were right, I never should have brought her here.

MARMAX
I guess we all make mistakes.

XENA
My pride may have killed my best friend.

Suddenly there was a loud crash that shook the building that brought a new sense of urgency to their situation.

XENA
Catapults. We're caught in the crossfire between the Thessalian's defense and the Mitoan advance.

Immediately, Xena began to move.

XENA
We need to get out of here. Now!

MARMAX
My forces are converging on this temple. If we overrun them in the valley, we cut off their attack. .

XENA
That can work.

HIPPOCRATES
Where can we go?

XENA
Doesn't matter as long as it's not here. This building's gonna come down.

HIPPOCRATES
But many of these patients can't be moved.

XENA
I know. I'll stay with them. Marmax will move his men to higher ground, which allow you and everyone able to leave a safe way out of here

The soldier nodded in agreement with Xena's order, and began to ready people to leave.

HIPPOCRATES
What about you and those who can't be moved? If you stay here, you'll die.

XENA
(Stern tone) There's no time for debate, I'll keep everyone here safe, now go.

With that Xena moved to do anything she could to keep the people still in the temple protected but was stopped when she heard Marmax call her.

MARMAX
Xena, over here. Quick!

Hearing the sense of urgency in the man's voice, Xena hurried over to where Marmax was assisting Ephiny as the Amazon cried out in pain.

EPHINY
The baby, it's coming!

Immediately, Xena's focus shifted to helping deliver the baby that couldn't have picked a worse time to come. However, after a lot of trying, it soon became clear that something was wrong when the baby wouldn't come. Xena knew she needed to act fast if she was going to save both the baby and Ephiny.

XENA
Marmax, hand me that knife.

After using one of the tricks she knew to block pain on Ephiny, with help from Marmax, Xena got to work and soon the cry of a healthy baby was heard. But as Xena finished making sure that everything there was taken care of, she heard a strange sound that brought her attention to Gabrielle who had begun convulsing uncontrollably.

XENA
Gabrielle!

The warrior rushed as fast as she could back to the young woman's side, as she tried to hold her still.

MARMAX
What's wrong with her?

XENA
I don't know!

Fear had set in, not knowing what else to do, Xena tried to keep Gabrielle's body still as the younger woman continued to shake for several more moments, until with a loud gasp, Gabrielle's body suddenly went still.

XENA
Gabrielle?

Xena gently shook the young woman to try and wake her, but didn't get any reaction as Gabrielle remained completely unresponsive.

HIPPOCRATES
She's dead.

Xena scowled as she looked at the young man.

XENA
She is not dead. I wouldn't let her. Come on, Gabrielle, wake up.

Once again, Xena shook Gabrielle to try waking her

XENA
Come on, wake up... You're scaring me. Wake up.

Xena could hear her heart begin to pound in her ears as everything around her faded away. A level of fear and dread took over as she continued to try and get any kind of response from the other woman before her, as now Gabrielle had stopped breathing.

XENA
Wake up. Gabrielle, breathe. Come on. Come on, breathe. Breathe! Maybe she just needs air.

Xena put her lips to Gabrielle's to try forcing air into her lungs. But again there was no esponse.

XENA
Come on, breathe!

Xena's eyes started to overflow and tears began to run down her face.

XENA
Just breathe.

Xena felt a hand on her shoulder as the young priest tried to comfort her.

HIPPOCRATES
Please, you need to stop. There's nothing you can do. I'm sorry, your friend is gone.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

Standing there beside Gabrielle as the young woman laid motionless, Xena looked at the priest Hippocrates, after stopping her seemingly pointless efforts in continuing to try and bring Gabrielle back.

HIPPOCRATES
You need to let her go.

The warrior scowled.

XENA
(Angry tone) Get out of my way.

She shoved him away.

XENA
(Angry tone) You don't know anything.

Xena then returned to her pleas with Gabrielle to wake up while desperately searching all the medical knowledge she had stored in her mind for anything she could do. The seconds passing by felt like a lifetime to the warrior.

XENA
Come on Gabrielle You've never ran from anything in your whole life. Now fight!

MARMAX
Xena.

Ignoring everyone else around her and throwing away all sense of logic that she would normally have, Xena continued as she cried, not willing to let Gabrielle go. It hadn't even occurred to the dark-haired woman until right there in that temple as she stood willing to fight the gods themselves to bring Gabrielle back, just how much the young woman had come to mean to her, since coming into her life and inadvertently pulling the warrior back from the brink of her own self destruction.

MARMAX
Xena! It's time to stop now. It's over. Let her cross over in peace.

Finally turning her attention to the soldier, Xena glared at him with a mix of sorrow and rage, reflected in her piercing blue eyes.

XENA
What do you know? You've killed so many.

MARMAX
And so have you.

XENA
No... No. I can still save her.

Again Xena went back to trying to resuscitate the other woman, pressing her mouth to Gabrielle's as she continued forcing air into her.

XENA
Come on, Gabrielle. Come on. Don't leave me.

Not knowing what else to do, Xena slammed a frustrated fist down onto Gabrielle's chest.

XENA
Don't you leave me!

She raised then brought her fist down again.

XENA
Don't leave me!

Xena repeated the action again and again as with each desperate demand, more and more of her hope faded away.

XENA
Don't leave me! Wake up! Wake up! Wake up!

Raising her fist once more, all hope seemed to drain from the warrior as she lowered her head and just let her hand drop against Gabrielle's chest one final time, suddenly feeling as though everything in her life had lost all meaning. Then, without warning Xena heard a loud gasp that caused her to raise her eyes as her tears changed from sorrow to joy, when she saw Gabrielle remarkably start breathing again.

MARMAX
Unbelievable.

Relieved and overjoyed beyond belief, Xena lifted Gabrielle slightly as she just stood there holding the young woman who was still getting her bearings as she looked around confused as to what was happening.

GALEN
Its' amazing, you're Aesclepius! You've come back to Earth!

The priest knelt at Xena's feet as the woman glanced down, not liking being compared to any god.

XENA
Get up, Galen. I'm not Aesclepius, you should know that by now. This was Gabrielle's doing.

A relieved smile appeared on Xena's face as she looked back at the woman in her arms.

XENA
Isn't that right?

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It was early the next morning as Xena stood watching Gabrielle, while the young woman sat and talked with Ephiny and doted over the Amazon's new baby. The chaos of the previous day behind them, as the attack on the temple had been stopped by the combination of Xena's strategies and Marmax's men. The amount of injured people being brought to the temple had finally stopped, and the patients who couldn't be evacuated during the attack were all in stable condition.

MARMAX
I've come to say goodbye. I must return to my men and start negotiations with Thessaly. I believe that with some hard work, the killing will soon stop.

Hearing the soldier's voice, Xena turned away from watching Gabrielle as she looked at the man who walked up to her.

XENA
I wish you much success.

The two grasped each other's forearms.

MARMAX
Thank you, Xena. You and your friend have been an inspiration to me. Tell Gabrielle that I did find
that peace within me, and I plan to share it.

XENA
I'm sure she'll be glad to hear that.

The man smiled as he then bid Xena farewell, and left the temple with the mission of ending the war that he now realized had cost far too many, far too much.

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GABRIELLE
So I'm an aunt now.

Gabrielle smiled at Xena as she used her staff to help her walk out of the temple.

GABRIELLE
Ephiny said she named him Xenan. After you.

Xena smiled, happy to see that Gabrielle appeared to be recovering well as they made their way to where Argo was waiting.

GABRIELLE
You know, I wanted to thank you Xena, for saving my life, again.

XENA
I didn't do anything. It was your decision to come back.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) Well, how could I leave you when we have so many wars to stop, and despots to foil.

XENA
And I wouldn't wanna do any of it without you. But you're gonna have to rest up for a while. Now come on, let's get out of here.

After reaching Argo, Xena got into the saddle and helped Gabrielle up behind her before the two rode away from the temple that left Xena with a lot to think about.

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A door opened, and a bundle was dropped on the floor just inside the dark room as booted footsteps against the wooden floor followed.

XENA
Hold on, let me get some light in here.

Xena walked further into the room and found a candle. Once it and a couple others were lit, the warrior returned to where Gabrielle still stood in the doorway to the room at the inn they had arrived at just after dark, after leaving the temple.

GABRIELLE
You know we don't have to stay at an inn tonight. I'm fine to sleep outside like we normally do.

XENA
Yeah I know.

Xena picked their packs up off the floor, and set Gabrielle's on the small table that the room had and, hers on the floor beside it.

XENA
But it's been a long day and I figured neither of us are gonna feel up to setting up camp, cooking and all that.

Xena began going through their things, and pulled out Gabrielle's nightgown before tossing it on the bed.

XENA
Why don't you get ready for bed and comfortable while I go downstairs and get us some dinner?

Gabrielle leaned on her staff as she looked at the other woman, who had been even more quiet than usual since they had left the temple.

GABRIELLE
Xena, is everything okay?

The warrior looked over her shoulder for a moment, before quickly turning away so Gabrielle couldn't read what was behind the look Xena had on her face.

XENA
(Lying) I'm fine. Like I said, it's been a long day.

Finishing getting everything settled, Xena walked toward the door.

XENA
Get ready for bed and I'll be back with something to eat.

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Larter that night, Gabrielle was peacefully sleeping as Xena sat by the open window. Her thoughts of the day raced through her mind. How close she had come to losing Gabrielle... The sheer fear and sickening feeling she had when she saw the young woman slipping away. How many people had Xena lost in one way or another through the years? She had never had such an emotionally devastating reaction like that before. Afterall, she had not long before told Gabrielle that death and loss were a part of life; and that she would need to learn how to deal with it” So, why when it came to what happened to the blonde was it then different? Why did Xena refuse to let Gabrielle go? Why had she fought so much harder to save her? But of course these were questions that while she had tried to ignore, Xena already knew the answer to.

Xena wondered how it had taken until Gabrielle was nearly snatched away from her forever for the warrior to finally admit it to herself. But after all the time the two had been through together, somewhere along the way Xena had fallen for the enthusiastic young woman. However, even with this new revelation, Xena convinced herself that she and Gabrielle becoming romantically involved would never be a good idea. And that Gabrielle deserved someone who wasn't an ex-warlord or had done so many horrific things that no amount of good deeds could erase the blood from their hands. So as Xena did her best to push her thoughts of ever having anything more than friendship between them, Xena moved to lay in the other bed next to where Gabrielle slept. But, while each woman had told themselves that what they had come to feel for the other would never be anything more than wishful thinking, they were unaware that it was fate that would soon change everything between them forever.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

With a small breeze in the air, Xena stood silently as she overlooked the scene before her. The events of the war between the Thessalians and Mitoans, and the events that took place at that temple were now a fading memory as Gabrielle walked to stand beside her.

GABRIELLE
So this is Cira. It's beautiful.

The warrior kept her eyes fixed on the open field stretched out ahead of them.

XENA
To me, it's the ugliest place on Earth.

Trying to comfort the dark-haired woman, Gabrielle placed her hand on her shoulder.

GABRIELLE
I know you blame yourself for what Callisto became, but I don't think you should keep punishing yourself for what happened.

XENA
I didn't come here to punish myself. I wanna understand why it happened. Why I was who I was. And how... if I can ever atone.

GABRIELLE
You're not that person anymore, Xena.

Gabrielle looked at the raven-haired warrior.

GABRIELLE
Look at this valley. Once it was a place full of violence and death. But now it's full of beauty and life. It's the same kind of change that's happened to you.

XENA
I wish that I could see it that way.

Xena moved to mount Argo.

XENA
I'm going down there.

GABRIELLE
You want me to come with you?

Xena looked down at the blonde from the mare's saddle.

XENA
No, I'll be okay. Stay here. I won't take long.

GABRIELLE
I'll be here.

Standing there leaning casually on her staff, Gabrielle watched as Xena rode away and toward the ruins of the village that had so long ago been completely destroyed by the warrior's army, prior to her leaving a life of war, pain, and destruction behind. The same village that, in turn, had created one of Xena's greatest enemies in Callisto, who, as a child, had been the sole survivor of the attack, and now had intern become a monster much like what she referred to Xena as. And felt herself justified in her actions due to the horrors she was forced to endure because of Xena.

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Riding back to where she had left Gabrielle, Xena stopped her horse as she looked around for the younger woman who she didn't see anywhere.

XENA
Gabrielle?

After not getting a response, the warrior looked around for any signs of Gabrielle, and when she saw no trace of the woman but her staff lying on the ground, Xena knew immediately that something must've been wrong, as Gabrielle knew not to go anywhere without her only source of defense. And especially when Xena wasn't around.

XENA
Come on girl.

Giving Argo a quick nudge with her boots, the mare kicked Gabrielle's staff up into the air, and after catching it, Xena got the horse moving and galloped off to find where Gabrielle could've gone.

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GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) If I had a Dinar for everytime I've been kidnapped and tied up...

Gabrielle looked at her kidnappers who were doing some type of ritualistic dance as she tried to free herself from the ropes, keeping her restrained. Unable to get free, the young woman let out a defeated sigh and leaned her head back against the tree.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Hopefully, Xena realizes I'm gone soon. I really don't wanna find out what these guys are planning on doing with me.

Gabrielle stood there silently for another moment until she heard a sudden rustling in the tree above her. She was just about to look up when something dropped out of the tree and landed in front of her.

XENA
You lose something?

Gabrielle smirked as Xena waved the blonde's staff in front of her, before drawing her sword and cutting through the ropes holding Gabrielle captive.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) 'Bout time you showed up.

Xena handed Gabrielle her staff back just as the two heard a man's voice.

CULTIST
(Angry tone) What's going on?! Stop them!

Turning to see the cultists leader had spotted her freeing Gabrielle, Xena stood ready to fight as a confident smirk crossed her lips.

XENA
You're welcome to try.

Before the cultists even had the chance to do anything, Xena grabbed her chakram from her hip and sent it flying from her hand. The weapon quickly traveled through the air, and after bouncing off of a tree, sliced through the ropes that were holding the other people prisoner, before returning to the warrior's waiting hand.

XENA
Gabrielle, make sure the rest of these people get out of here.

GABRIELLE
On it.

With that Gabrielle rushed off to free the other people the cultists had kidnapped, as Xena taunted the enemy group before taking off herself to join Gabrielle and the others as they made their escape.

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Gabrielle ran with the freed captives as she led them through the wooded area. They moved for a while before the blonde came to a halt.

GABRIELLE
Hold on.

The young woman motioned for the rest of the group to stop.

GABRIELLE
I think I hear something.

?
Hey, good to see ya.

Hearing a familiar voice, Gabrielle lowered her guard as she looked over to see Xena emerging from some bushes.

GABRIELLE
That was quick.

Xena shrugged as she walked over to meet Gabrielle and the rest of the group.

XENA
Meh, they weren't so tough.

CULTIST
There they are! Don't let 'em escape!

Turning around, Xena and Gabrielle saw the cultist's leader along with a group of others heading their way.

XENA
(Flat tone) Though, they are persistent.

Quickly, Xena prepared to face the cultists once more as Gabrielle moved to get the other people to safety.

GABRIELLE
Hurry. Go... Run!

As Gabrielle worked to get the freed captives out of there, Xena clashed with the enemy. Throwing a kick, Xena knocked one of the cultists that came at her away. She blocked another's attack with her blade, before pushing him back and sinking it into the stomach of a third, and letting that one drop to her feet. The raven-haired woman let out a yell as she dodged another taller, but scrawnier cultists and spun around, slashing him in his back and leaving him to fall, as she continued fighting. Suddenly, a small voice reached Xena's ears as she pushed away another cultist and looked toward the sound to see a little girl that had gotten separated from everyone else in the chaos.

CULTIST
(Angry tone) Get her!

Hearing the leader of the group shout, Xena turned slightly to find a battering ram coming straight for the little girl, and ran as fast as she could toward her.

XENA
Move, get out of the way!

With no time to lose but still several feet away, in a desperate move to save the little girl, Xena dove forward and shoved her out of the way just in the knick of time as the battering ram came through. However, unfortunately for Xena, the warrior was unable to get out of the way, and was slammed into by the ram, sending her crashing into the tree several feet behind her before dropping to the ground.

GABRIELLE
Xena!

Seeing the whole thing, Gabrielle ran up behind the cultist's leader as she swung her staff at the man's head, knocking him unconscious before rushing to where Xena had fallen.

GABRIELLE
Xena. Xena, are you okay?

Xena mumbled something that Gabrielle couldn't understand, as the younger woman tried to see what she could do.

GABRIELLE
Hold on Xena. You're gonna be okay.
(Talking to herself) Oh gods.

Panicked and unsure what to do, Gabrielle pushed Xena's hair out of the woman's face, and felt something warm and wet that caused her to notice Xena was bleeding. Gabrielle looked and found a large gash on the back of the warrior's head.

XENA
(Weak tone) The girl.

GABRIELLE
What girl? One of the captives?

XENA
(Weak tone) Only she can save me.

GABRIELLE
They're safe.

XENA
(Weak tone) Mount Nestus.

GABRIELLE
Mount Nestus? Why there? Xena, I don't understand.

XENA
(Weak tone) I need you to take me there.

GABRIELLE
I--I can't.. It's too far away. I don't even know how to get there.

Gabrielle watched as Xena's eyes slowly closed, then opened a few times as the warrior fought to stay conscious.

XENA
(Weak tone) Gabrielle... please.

Seeing the bad shape Xena was clearly in, Gabrielle knew that it wasn't the time for debate and agreed to Xena's odd request.

GABRIELLE
(Soft tone) Okay, Xena. We'll go to Mount Nestus.

So after whistling for Argo, Gabrielle helped the barely conscious warrior lay over the saddle, and led the mare away as they began their journey to Mount Nestus.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

Gabrielle had traveled a long time when she brought Argo to a stop, and walked behind the horse to where Xena lay out on a makeshift wooden sled that Gabrielle had made out of tree branches, after getting Xena through the mountain snow on Argo became too difficult.

GABRIELLE
Xena, can you hear me? Xena? Mount Nestus. Is it north of the Strymon River?

Xena mumbled something incoherent as Gabrielle tried to keep her worry under control. She quickly made sure that the warrior was warm enough beneath the blankets she was under, and moved back ahead of Argo and spoke to her, as she grabbed the mare's reins.

GABRIELLE
I hope that's a yes.

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Cold and exhausted, Gabrielle pushed on through the snow with Argo as she fought through the cold that had turned her fingers and toes numb. She shivered as she glanced back to where Xena remained unconscious, before passing onward, until she finally spotted a small building that sat alone amidst the snowy wasteland. With what she prayed was her destination in sight, Gabrielle moved faster, as she hoped that her journey to get there would be worth it to help Xena.

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Reaching the small building, Gabrielle knocked on the door and waited a moment, before a man opened it and looked at her, seemingly a bit surprised to find someone at his doorstep.

GABRIELLE
Please, help me. My friend needs help. She's hurt and asked me to bring her here to find someone named Nicklio.

?
I'm Nicklio,

The man looked passed Gabrielle to see Xena laying bundled up behind Argo and walked over to her.

NICKLIO
Xena? What happened to her?

Nicklio quickly examined the warrior.

NICKLIO
Her organs are swelling from internal bleeding.

He stood up.

NICKLIO
Quickly, we need to get her inside.

Together, Gabrielle and the healer lifted Xena and carried her into the small house

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NICKLIO
You've traveled a long way in this cold, here let me look at you.

Moving Gabrielle closer to the warmth of the fire that was lit in his fireplace, the healer Nickilo began to look Gabrielle over.

GABRIELLE
Will you help my friend?

NICKLIO
Xena can wait. You, I can do something about.

GABRIELLE
What do you mean?

NICKLIO
Unfortunately I can't do anything for her right now. Whether Xena recovers or not is up to her.

Gabrielle shook her head.

GABRIELLE
What? I don't understand. You're a healer and Xena told me to find you. I could've taken her to someone much closer but I figured since Xena insisted on coming to you, you could help her. But now you're telling me you can't do anything? Why not?

The man sighed as he motioned for Gabrielle to sit in a nearby chair as he sat in the one across from her.

NICKLIO
Listen....

Nicklio paused as he realized the young woman across from him hadn't told him her name and noticing this Gabrielle quickly told him so they could move on.

GABRIELLE
Gabrielle.

NICKLIO
Gabrielle. Xena's injuries aren't just physical. Her mind and soul are severely wounded. Right now she's fighting a battle within herself.

GABRIELLE
Her mind and soul? Why? I know that Xena lives with alot of remorse and regret about her past but what does that have to do with her physical injury?

NICKLIO
Because while medicine and other forms of treatment can be very beneficial toward healing, many times it's a person's spirit and will that contributes the greatest to whether or not they can recover from whatever is ailing them.

Gabrielle scowled.

GABRIELLE
But I know Xena and she isn't someone who would just give up on anything.

NICKLIO
For her sake Gabrielle, let's hope you're right.

Gabrielle looked over to Xena for a moment before returning her eyes to Nicklio.

GABRIELLE
If you don't mind me asking, how do you know Xena.

NICKLIO
She came to see me long ago when she was badly injured.

The man leaned back in his seat

NICKLIO
I'm not sure if she's mentioned it to you and while I can't tell you details, given that you two are clearly very close if she trusted you to bring her here, I'm sure she'd be okay with me telling you what brought her to me the first time we met.

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GABRIELLE
I see. So she was brought to you after Ceasar betrayed and left her for dead.

The young woman shook her head solemnly after hearing Nicklio tell her what he knew about Xena's encounter with Ceasar. As the man moved to check on the warrior's condition, Xena's body began to twitch.

NICKLIO
Something's happening.

Immediately, Gabrielle stood to follow the healer as he briskly made his way to where Xena layed.

GABRIELLE
What's going on?

Nicklio began examining the warrior once again and held his fingers to her neck.

NICKLIO
Her pulse is weakening.

A deep sense of fear began to fill Gabrielle.

GABRIELLE
No. We have to do something.

The healer lifted his eyes to the blonde.

NICKLIO
I'm sorry Gabrielle, I've done everything I could, there's nothing more I can do for her.

GABRIELLE
No. Xena can't die. She can't.

Gabrielle looked down at the warrior laying in front of her and took her hand.

GABRIELLE
You hear me, Xena? You're stronger than this. I don't know what's going on inside you right now, but you can't just give up.

NICKLIO
It's still falling.

GABRIELLE
You can't do this Xena. Why? You have to wake up. Xena!

Suddenly Gabrielle felt a hand on her shoulder that made her look up to see a disheartened expression on Nicklio's face.

NICKLIO
She's gone.

GABRIELLE
She can't be gone.

Hearing those woods, Gabrielle began to cry.

GABRIELLE
No.

Gabrielle reached out and took Xena's face in her hands.

GABRIELLE
No!

NICKLIO
I'm sorry. She's passed over.

GABRIELLE
Please, please wake up. Wake up!

Crying and heartbroken, Gabrielle layed her head on Xena's chest as she held the deceased woman.

GABRIELLE
No, Xena.

Seeing how upset Gabrielle was, Nicklio thought it best if he quietly excused himself, and left Gabrielle to mourn the loss of her friend as Gabrielle continued speaking to the warrior's body.

GABRIELLE
I know you always told me to be strong. I can't be, not now. You can't leave me. I know it's not your time. I can feel it in my heart. I just feel this emptiness that I've never known before, and it scares me. Xena, above all, just remember your destiny. Remember it and fight. Just, fight to come back. This world needs you. I need you.

Gabrielle closed her eyes as she finally uttered the words that she had wanted to tell Xena for so long and now regretted more than anything not doing so as it was clear that now she would never again have the chance.

GABRIELLE
I love you, Xena.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

GABRIELLE
You can't do this Xena. Why? You have to wake up. Xena!

Suddenly, Gabrielle felt a hand on her shoulder that made her look up to see a disheartened expression on Nicklio's face.

NICKLIO
She's gone.

GABRIELLE
She can't be gone.

Hearing those words, Gabrielle began to cry.

GABRIELLE
No.

Gabrielle reached out, and took Xena's face in her hands.

GABRIELLE
No!

NICKLIO
I'm sorry. She's passed over.

GABRIELLE
Please, please wake up. Wake up! Wake up!!!

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GABRIELLE
Xena!

Gabrielle suddenly sprung up to a sitting position as she breathed heavily, Her reality sinking in as her tired eyes began to adjust to the dark cave that she had taken shelter in from the raging storm outside. Though the terrible weather outside couldn't even begin to compete with the storm of emotions that Gabrielle was feeling within.

GABRIELLE
Another nightmare.

Gabrielle's breathing began to return to normal as she looked to the side at the sarcophagus that rested just a few feet away.

GABRIELLE
Though not much different from this nightmare I'm now living.

Slowly, Gabrielle pushed her covers away as she moved to kneel beside the coffin and layed her head on its lid.

GABRIELLE
Every night I see it happen. Every morning, I wish it was a dream. Xena.

A few tears escaped the young woman's eyes before she wiped them away, as she thought of Xena's recent death.

GABRIELLE
Why'd you have to go? You just gave up. I never...

Gabrielle took a breath to try and keep herself from crying yet again. Something that she had done a lot in the past number of days since the warrior's passing.

GABRIELLE
I never got to tell you just how much you mean to me. At least, not while you were here. Something that I've wished everyday I had done, before it was too late.

Gabrielle looked up.

GABRIELLE
So, wherever you are now Xena, I hope you can hear me, and that you're at peace.

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Morning came and Gabrielle set out again toward Amphipolis. She walked along quietly while leading Argo by the reins as the horse pulled Xena's coffin behind them. Her mind was on Xena and what she'd say to the warrior's mother, Cyrene. The two had only recently reconciled after the years of Xena's dark past, and her brother Lyceus' untimely death. And now Gabrielle had to bring the woman who had already suffered so much heartbreak, one of her other children and only daughter's lifeless body. Causing Gabrielle to think of how cruel the fates must be to let some people suffer through so much tragedy.

?
Well, well, well. Look at this boys. I told you she was dead.

Hearing an unfamiliar voice, Gabrielle stopped in her tracks before seeing several bandits emerge from behind a group of trees a moment later.

GABRIELLE
What do you want?

The blonde scowled, as she held her staff ready to defend herself. The bandits moving toward her before stopping to stand surrounding her, Argo and Xena's coffin.

BANDIT 1
Why, we've simply come to pay our respects.

The man flashed a disingenuous grin, as another one of the group spoke.

BANDIT 2
Yeah, it's not everyday you get to see the legendary warrior princess' corpse up close and personal.

Several of the group laughed at the callous comment before the first bandit spoke again.

BANDIT 1
Then when we're done we're gonna sell Xena's body to the highest bidder. There are a lot of people who'll pay quite the hefty sum for that woman's lifeless corpse.

Gabrielle stood unintimidated by the group as she shifted her stance and tightened her grip on her staff, while readying herself for the fight she knew was coming. The last thing she was going to do now was let anyone stop her from fulfilling the warrior's funeral request.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly angry tone) Back off! I'm warning you.

The men looked at each other for a moment, and laughed because they, like so many others didn't think Gabrielle was capable of posing any level of threat toward them.

BANDIT 1
Hey, little girl. Think logically here for a second. You think a corpse is worth getting beaten up for?

Gabrielle stood firm, carefully watching each man's movement's as they edged closer and within her reach.

GABRIELLE
You tell me.

Suddenly, Gabrielle swung her staff and cracked one of the bandits in the side of his head, dropping him before anyone else knew what happened.

BANDIT 2
(Angry tone) You'll pay for that!

With that, the remaining bandits drew their weapons and charged for Gabrielle. The young woman quickly ducked out of the way of a sword strike, and drove the end of her staff into his midsection, and swinging it upwards and connecting another hit to his jaw before going low and sweeping his legs from under him. As he fell, Gabrielle blocked another bandit's strike but was shoved back with a boot to her stomach, sending her back and to the ground. The bandit then stood over her and was about to raise his blade to strike, before he felt a sharp pain between his legs as Gabrielle brought her foot up to land a hard hit right in his groin. A small, high pitched groan escaped the man's throat before he fell over into a ball, clutching his family jewels as Gabrielle hurried back to her feet to continue fighting, but ended up being grabbed from behind by another one of the bandits.

BANDITS 1
(Angry tone) Big mistake little girl. You have no idea how much pain you're in for now.

?
Funny, I was just thinking the same thing about you.

The bandit turned his head to investigate the new voice, and was met with a fist to the side of his face that caused him to release Gabrielle, before he felt the wind driven out of him from a kick to his stomach that drove him to the ground.

?
Anyone else?

The remaining bandits stood looking at the new arrival to the scene, and decided it wasn't worth the hassle of actually having to fight for a dead body, as they stepped back to give Gabrielle one last sneer, before reluctantly turning around and walking away.

?
Hey there Gabrielle. You okay?

The young woman sat up to find an outstretched hand and a surprising, but comforting familiar face standing before her.

GABRIELLE
Iolaus?

The man smiled as Gabrielle took his hand, and he helped the young woman to her feet.

GABRIELLE
What are you doing here?

IOLAUS
Oh, I just happened to be coming through when I ended up hearing a commotion and ran into you and your friends that just ran off.

Gabrielle hugged her friend, leaving Iolaus a bit surprised by the sudden greeting but was happy to return the gesture.

IOLAUS
(Laughing slightly) It's good to see you too.

The man's light-hearted mood quickly shifted to concern when instead of Gabrielle replying with some upbeat banter of her own, she instead began to cry. Causing him to hug her just a little tighter in an attempt to comfort the young woman.

IOLAUS
Gabrielle? What is it?

Iolaus looked around for a second and in that moment, realized that someone was missing.

IOLAUS
Hey. Where's Xena?

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IOLAUS
I'm sorry, Gabrielle.

GABRIELLE
She's gone. She just left me.

Gabrielle lowered her head as she leaned slightly over Xena's coffin, after explaining what happened to Iolaus, who stood unsure of what he could do to comfort her.

GABRIELLE
I miss her so much.

Though she tried to hold it back, Gabrielle began to cry again as Iolaus moved to hug her.

GABRIELLE
There's so many things that I wish I could tell her. Things I wish I had said when I had the chance.

IOLAUS
What would you have told her?

GABRIELLE
I would have told her how empty my life was before she came, and all the lessons I learned, just how much she meant to me, that I love her.

Iolaus gave a gentle smile.

IOLAUS
You just did.

The man let Gabrielle go and stepped back.

IOLAUS
You gonna be okay?

Gabrielle let out a small sigh.

GABRIELLE
I will be. Thanks Iolaus.

She looked down at Xena's coffin.

GABRIELLE
I gotta get Xena to Amphipolis. She wanted to be put to rest next to her brother.

IOLAUS
Do you want me to come with you?

Gabrielle returned her focus to Iolaus.

GABRIELLE
No I'll be okay. Thanks anyway though.

IOLAUS
Sure. I guess I should go tell Hercules about Xena before he hears it from somewhere else.

GABRIELLE
Thanks.

The two shared one more hug before saying goodbye and headed off in different directions, as Gabrielle continued toward Amphipolis.

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After continuing on for some time, Gabrielle again came to a stop when she heard a rustling in the trees surrounding her. However, this time she kept her staff casually at her side, as several figures suddenly descended from above, and a small smile made its way to Gabrielle's otherwise sullen face.

GABRIELLE
Ephiny.

The young woman walked up and hugged her Amazon friend, who in turn did the same.

GABRIELLE
What brings you guys all the way out here?

EPHINY
We heard about xena. We're so sorry, Gabrielle. The entire Amazon nation mourns her loss.

?
As we should.

Gabrielle pulled away from Ephiny to see Velasca remove her mask.

VELASCA
Though she never wanted to admit it, Xena was one of us, a true Amazon. We'd like you to bring her
body back to the village, where we can pay our respects with an Amazon funeral.

GABRIELLE
I'm honored. And I know Xena would be too. But I promised Xena I'd bring her back to Amphipolis.
so she can be buried with her brother.

Gabrielle looked around for a moment before continuing.

GABRIELLE
But since you're here, I'd like to talk to Queen Melosa about something. I was thinking about maybe coming back to the village. At least for a bit, until I figure out what I'm gonna do...
(Sad tone) Now that Xena's gone.

EPHINY
Gabrielle, Melosa's dead.

The unexpected news of Melosa's death took Gabrielle by total shock as she tried to wrap her mind around how this could've happened to the strong Amazon leader.

GABRIELLE
What? But how? Who's the Queen?

EPHINY
Velasca.

Ephiny sent an angry glare toward the aforementioned Amazon as she continued.

EPHINY
She issued a challenge to Melosa and then killed her.

Velasca stood there seemingly unfazed by the accusation.

VELASCA
(Smug tone) As is permitted by Amazon law. Whether you like it or not, I beat her in a fair fight, Ephiny. Funny how you keep conveniently leaving that part out.

The curly-haired Amazon scowled, not liking how satisfied Velasca was to have killed their queen. Or the prospect of her becoming the next ruler of their people, as it seemed that all Velasca actually cared about was the power that becoming queen would give her.

EPHINY
So it would seem.

Ephiny's attention returned to Gabrielle.

EPHINY
But, that doesn't really matter, now that the Amazon Princess has returned.

VELASCA
That's true.

Velasca eyed Ephiny, as she tried to hide her disdain for the subject even being brought up.

EPHINY
Which makes you, Gabrielle, the next in line to be queen.

Gabrielle almost couldn't believe what she was hearing, as it took a moment for reality to begin to sink in.

GABRIELLE
Wait a minute. Me? Queen? This is a lot. I still have to deal with Xena. I need to think this over.

Ephiny put her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.

EPHINY
It's okay Gabrielle. You don't have to decide anything right now. Why don't you come back to the village with us and we'll help you with Xena's funeral? You can decide what you wanna do later.

GABRIELLE
Thanks Ephiny. I'd like that.

Gabrielle managed a small smile, as she grabbed Argo's reins and followed the other women to their village to prepare for Xena's funeral. And as Gabrielle prepared herself to say her final goodbyes to the woman she loved but could never let her know face to face, she was unsure that very soon Xena's funeral would become the furthest thing from her mind.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

Sunlight peeked into the large room as a hidden figure crept inside, and quietly shut the window behind them, before stealthy moving between various large items for cover in an effort to avoid being seen by the priest who was in charge of tending to the temple.

?
(Whisper) There you are.

Avoiding detection, the figure made their way to a small pedestal, where silent, steady hands carefully reached out to size a large dagger that sat there. They stopped when a few people came closer, and instead turned around and just stood there as the people walked by.

PRIEST
Good day to you.

?
Yeah, same to you.

The figure looked around casually for a few moments as the priest went about their business, before walking away. The figure continued on with their previous task before also moving on, until a sudden clanging sound echoed through the temple.

PRIEST
Oh no, the dagger.

The priest walked over to where the sacred weapon fell and picked it, up as the other priest cleared the temple of visitors.

PRIEST
The Dagger of Helios must be kept safe

The priest brought the item over to a large cabinet, placing it on a small pillow before shutting and locking the door. Meanwhile the guards finished searching the area for intruders and then left with the priest.

?
(Talking to self) Ah, another day, another defilement.

The figure from earlier peeked out from their clever hiding place behind some very large paper made to match the temple walls.

?
(Talking to self) And now I take my prize.

The figure held up the stolen dagger to admire it for a moment.

?
(Talking to self) And my exit.

Taking a small hook and rope out from their belt and tossed it overhead where it latched onto a windowsill. The figure was about to start climbing when their arm suddenly shot out to the side, dragging its owner several feet back toward the cabinet.

?
What the...?

Then, just as quickly as the figure lost control of their arm, it returned to normal. Leaving the person it was connected to looking at the hand in confusion. But after wiggling their fingers for a few seconds, and seeing that everything seemed to be as it should, the figure shrugged and decided to ignore the odd incident, and moved to climb the rope once again. But just as the figure began to walk away, their arm stretched out on its own again and this time dragged the rest of the body back to the cabinet where the wayward hand picked up a book. Confused, the person looked at the book they had unwillingly grabbed as complete control over the hand returned.

?
Okay? I guess this could be valuable.

The figure examined the old, warn down item a little closer

?
(Snickering) To a junk peddler.

The figure went to toss the book aside, but couldn't seem to get his hand to let it go. Now, even more baffled than before, the unknown would-be thief shook their arm around as they tried to force the book out of their new vise-like grip. This however caused some unwanted noise that the priest heard and immediately turned around to go investigate, and became more concerned when the door to the room wouldn't open.

PRIEST 1
Who's in there?!

PRIEST 2
Open up!

PRIEST 1
Break the door down!

With the priests at the door, the would-be thief decided it would be in their best interest to just go along with whatever strangeness was going on, and just take the book he had grabbed without wanting to.

?
Okay, okay, I get it. I'll take the book

He put the item in his shirt, and looked at his hand that finally let go of the book.

?
You happy?

The door was barely holding as the figure hurried back to the rope that was waiting, and scurried up and out of the window. The thief managed to slip away just in time, as the doors to the room flew open and the priest stumbled inside to find no one there, and that they had just been robbed.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Gabrielle walked along with Ephiny after seeing to the final preparations for Xena's funeral.

GABRIELLE
You know, I don't think I met Velasca when I was here before.

EPHINY
She's Melosa's adopted daughter. After Velasca lost her mother during the first war against the Centaurs, Melosa took her in and raised her as her own.

GABRIELLE
I see. Speaking of the Centaurs, how's Xenan?

EPHINY
He's good. He's staying with his uncle for a while. That's not to say I don't miss him everyday.

Ephiny smiled as the two continued walking through the Amazon village, as Gabrielle returned the conversation to the topic of Velasca.

GABRIELLE
So where was Velasca the last time Xena and I were here?

EPHINY
When Terreis was named Melosa's heir instead of her, Velasca put up a challenge to take Terreis' place but lost. As a result, she left the village, and only returned this past year.

GABRIELLE
Is she a good leader?

Ephiny shrugged.

EPHINY
It depends on who you ask. But I think her ambitions will only lead our tribe to ruin.

GABRIELLE
And that's why you want me to come back. To become queen so Velasca can't.

Gabrielle stopped, which caused the other woman to do the same, and turned to face the younger woman.

GABRIELLE
Ephiny, I told you I can't stay. I have to bring Xena home I promised.

EPHINY
Gabrielle, I'm saying this as someone who's your friend. I know you wanna honor Xena's wishes but she's gone, and we need you here. I'm sure Xena would understand. We'll give her a proper Amazon funeral. Her soul will go free and you can begin to...

Ephiny paused, realizing that she might've sounded a bit insensitive to what Gabrielle was going through, as Gabrielle sighed and looked up to the sky.

GABRIELLE
I can begin to move on.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Meanwhile, in a tavern not far away, a weary bar patron picked up the mug of ale placed before him only to have his own hand unwillingly slammed back onto the counter.

?
Oh no. I need you sober, Autolycus.

Autolycus looked around for the person that just spoke until he realized no one had, and raised his mug to drink again.

AUTOLYCUS
(Thinking to himself sarcastically) Oh great, not only am I losing control of my own body, now I'm losing my mind too.

?
(Stern tone) Hey, drink, down, now.

Autolycus' hand involuntarily slammed the mug back onto the bar, as the thief averted his eyes from the other people staring at him.

AUTOLYCUS
(Talking to himself) What's wrong with me? I can't control what I do and now I'm hearing voices.
.
?
Oh good, you can hear me. That'll hopefully save me a lot of effort.

AUTOLYCUS
(Talking to himself nervously) Okay, I'm officially freaking out here.

?
Autolycus, calm down. It's Xena. I'm here with you, inside you.

AUTOLYCUS
Inside me?!

The rest of the people at the bar shot the thief a suspicious look after hearing his seemingly bizarre
outbursts, Autolycus slouched down in an effort to avoid prying eyes.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Yes. And as a word of advice. You might want to keep your voice down while talking to me unless you want people to think the king of thieves has gone completely insane.

AUTOLYCUS
(Muttering) Yeah, well maybe I have. I mean, I've heard the news, Xena's dead. So unless you can prove that I'm actually talking to a dead woman, I just wanna sit here and drink until the voices stop.

XENA'S SPIRIT
(Irritated tone) Look, I don't have time for this. Now get up!

Without doing so himself, Autolycus swiftly rose from his seat.

XENA'S SPIRIT
I need you for a job that only the king of Thieves can do. And you're gonna help me whether you like it or not.

Autolycus made a somewhat frightened groan as Xena forced him to awkwardly walk out of the tavern, and over to a nearby water barrel while the thief tried his best to act natural.

XENA'S SPIRIT
There, see?

Autolycus looked into the barrel and couldn't believe his eyes when instead of his own face reflected back at him, he saw Xena's

AUTOLYCUS
Xena? It really is you that's been controlling my body. You were the one who was trying to stop me from stealing the dagger of Helios.

Xena's reflection spoke back in the thief's head.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Stop you? Who do you think gave you the idea to go there in the first place?

AUTOLYCUS
Okay, but why?

XENA'S SPIRIT
I don't have a lot of time or energy, the more you fight me, the less chance I have at pulling this off. So listen and do exactly what I tell you. I need you to help get me to my body. We don't have long before it's too late. If we can get our hands on the ambrosia and use that on my body, I'll be able to be brought back, using that book and dagger to help us get it.

AUTOLYCUS
The food of the god,s huh. I guess I could find some way to make a profit from this.

Xena rolled her eyes.

XENA'S SPIRIT
(Flat tone) Glad we have an agreement. Now let's go.

Autolycus staggered forward as Xena took over moving his body, and went off to retrieve the ambrosia. Unaware that that had even less time to get the ambrosia to Xena's body then they thought.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

AUTOLYCUS
I can't see with this thing on.

The thief lifted up the Amazonian mask he had put on, after sneaking his way into the Amazon village that Xena led him to, as he looked around, enjoying the sight of so many scantily-clad women walking around.

AUTOLYCUS
Oh yeah, that's much better.

XENA'S SPIRIT
(Annoyed tone) Would you focus? Might I remind you that you have a very time sensitive job to do here

AUTOLYCUS
Relax, I'm working on it. I already think I know where I need to go.

Autolycus stealthily moved through the village until he made his way to a small hut, in the hopes that Xena's body would be there, as the Amazon women began to dance and sing.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

?
It's time, Gabrielle. Are you ready?

Having changed into her Amazon clothing, Gabrielle turned around to see Ephiny standing in the doorway to her hut, and gave her friend a sad smile.

GABRIELLE
Yeah. Or as ready as I could ever be anyway.

The younger woman followed the other Amazon outside. They made their way up to a stage where Gabrielle stood before the rest of the village, ready to accept her new place as their queen. There she stood quietly as she watched another Amazon stepped forward holding the ceremonial mask that all of the Queen's had worn before her.

SOLARI
My fellow Amazons, I give you the mask of the new Queen.

Gabrielle reached for the mask, but was stopped as someone yelled from the crowd and interrupted the ceremony.

VELASCA
(Angry tone) Enough of this!

Everyone watched in stunned silence, as Velasca stormed up to the stage and addressed the village.

VELASCA
(Angry tone) She has no right to wear the mask of the Queen! She wasn't born of our flesh! She isn't one of us.

Ephiny stepped forward from the crowd.

EPHINY
I was there, Velasca. I heard Terreis give her the caste.

Velasca sneered at Ephiny, as she turned her ire toward the woman.

VELASCA
(Angry tone) And why should we believe someone who married the enemy, bore his child and left our people?! What good is your word to an Amazon? If you ask me, you have no more right to be here than she does.

Velasca angrily pointed her finger toward Gabrielle, who just gave the woman a scowl. Then, while looking directly at Velasca, picked up the queen's mask and slid it over her face as the crowd cheered and Velasca scowled.

VELASCA
(Angry tone) This isn't over, little girl.

Without another word, Velasca stormed off, as the celebration continued on as if nothing had happened.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

It was a little later, when Autolycus snuck into where Xena's body was being held.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Would you hurry up? They're about the light the funeral pyre.

AUTOLYCUS
Would you calm down? I'm working on it.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Alright, so what's the plan?

Autolycus smirked.

AUTOLYCUS
Oh-ho Xena, my friend, you just sit back and watch the king of thieves do what I do best.

Autolycus moved over toward the coffin, and was just about to get to work when the door opened.

GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) Autolycus?! What do you think you're doing here?!

AUTOLYCUS
(Slightly nervous tone) Now, hold on Gabrielle, I have a very good explanation.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Don't try and explain, Autolycus. I don't wanna get Gabrielle's hopes up if this doesn't work.

AUTOLYCUS
(Slightly nervous tone) Or not.

GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) You stay away from Xena's body, Autolycus. Don't think I don't know people are willing to pay good money to have Xena's body. Though, I thought you were better than that.

AUTOLYCUS
Wait, wait, Gabrielle I can explain. You see Xena's here. Her mind or her soul or whatever you wanna call it. What I'm trying to say, is that Xena's inside of me and she wants me to steal her body.

Gabrielle stood there for a moment in stunned silence as she looked at Autolycus with disgust.

GABRIELLE
What is wrong with you?

XENA'S SPIRIT
See, this is the other reason why I didn't want you to tell her. You sound insane.

AUTOLYCUS
You know, you're really not helping right now.

Seeing what appeared to be Autolycus talking to himself, Gabrielle figured that he was just trying to get her to believe his nonsensical lie, and called for the guards, who came in seconds later and took Autolycus off to a cell until Gabrielle could decide what to do with him. Then with a heavy heart, Gabrielle gave the signal to light the the wood pile that Xena's coffin sat atop of. And as the fire was lit and Autolycus was locked away, time was very quickly running out for any hope that Xena could be revived as Autolycus worked as fast as he could to escape his cell and get to Xena's body before it was too late.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

AUTOLYCUS
Almost. Almost. And just a little twist right there.

An audible click came from the lock to the cell door that the thief had been thrown into after being caught by Gabrielle trying to retrieve Xena's body.

AUTOLYCUS
And there we go.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Good. Now let go and hold on.

AUTOLYCUS
"Let go and hold on?"? That doesn't make any sense. How am I supposed to... Hey! Ah. Hey. Oh. Wait a minute. Xena!

The cell now unlocked, Xena took control over the thief's body as she ran out of the cell and dove through an open window. Once outside, she quickly spotted the funeral pyre with the coffin containing her body on top of it. She ran for several long strides before letting out her signature battle cry as both of Autolycus' feet left the ground, and she along with the thief lept an impressive distance through the air, flipped and landed standing right on top of the coffin in front of everyone in the village.

VELASCA
What in the?...

Immediately after landing, Xena began kicking the burning wood away from her body as Gabrielle looked on in utter disbelief of what she was witnessing.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) That sound. The way he just came jumping in out of nowhere like that. There's no way… It can't be

VELASCA
(Angry tone) Archers, stop him!

A group of Amazons raised their bows to take aim at Autolycus.

GABRIELLE
Wait, no!

Gabrielle ran to stand between the archers and Autolycus, as Xena grabbed her chakram that laid on the coffin, and threw it. The weapon ricocheted off a pole, before flying right in front of the archers and cutting off all of their arrowheads. Xena jumped off the coffin, doing a mid-air flip before landing right in Argo's saddle, who was standing nearby. Autolycus grimaced at the rough landing.

AUTOLYCUS
Ugh! Easy on the merchandise there Xena.

Seeing the whole scene play out, though she wasn't sure how, left no doubt in Gabrielle's mind of what was happening as her face lit up with excitement.

GABRIELLE
It is Xena!.

Using her whip to latch onto the sarcophagus, Xena gave Argo a shout to get the horse moving, as Gabrielle quickly moved to follow before feeling her arm get grabbed.

EPHINY
Gabrielle, what are you doing?

The new Amazon queen looked at Ephiny.

GABRIELLE
I can't explain, Ephiny. I'm sorry. But I have to go.

Pulling away from her fellow Amazon, Gabrielle ran to catch up with the speeding horse and was just able to dive onto the sarcophagus being dragged behind the Xena, controlled Autolycus as they rode off.

VELASCA
Ephiny, organize a war party.

The woman scowled as she stormed over to the curly-haired Amazon.

VELASCA
Go after them, and bring their bodies back to me.

EPHINY
There's no need, I'll go, but by myself. Gabrielle wouldn't have done this without a good reason.

VELASCA
(Angry tone) She betrayed us! I want Gabrielle dead! You hear me?! Now is the time to show where your loyalties lie! You saw it for yourself, Gabrielle is a traitor to the nation! I am the rightful Amazon Queen!

A number of other women cheered in support for Velasca.

EPHINY
No Velasca, like it or not, Gabrielle is queen. And I won't let you or anyone else discredit her right to the throne.

Out of the crowd, a number of voices cheered their agreement with Ephiny. Which only served to anger Velasca further as she turned to address the crowd.

VELASCA
(Angry tone) Regardless of what Gabrielle, or Ephiny might say, the role of queen is rightfully mine. And I refuse to allow anyone else to say otherwise. Those who stand against me, stand with her. And as a result will be punished.

Several Amazons moved from the crowd to stand alongside Ephiny,, as the rest of the larger group remained standing in solidarity with Velasca, who glared coldly at the woman who dared to defy her.

VELASCA
So be it. Take them. They can die alongside the traitor.

Ephiny scowled silently at the power hungry Amazon, as a number of the woman's supporters grabbed her, along with the rest who believed Gabrielle was their rightful leader. The women were all taken and locked away in a cell, as Velasca began shouting orders for the others to go out and search for Gabrielle. Offering a reward for anyone who brought her back dead or alive.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

GABRIELLE
Looks like we have a bit of a lead on them.

Night had fallen as Gabrielle stood up from where she'd been riding on Xena's coffin, after finally coming to a stop as Autolycus dismounted from Argo's saddle, now back in control of his body.

AUTOLYCUS
(Joking tone) Well, that was certainly an exciting day.

GABRIELLE
Autolycus, what is going on? Why is Xena in your mind?

The thief smirked as he idly twirled his mustache.

AUTOLYCUS
(Joking tone) Well, I guess she, like most other women, just finds the great king of thieves utterly irresistible.

Suddenly at Xena's doing, Autolycus' grabbed and yanked on his mustache.

AUTOLYCUS
Ow!

Gabrielle squinted her eyes as she moved up close to Autolycus, trying to see any hint of Xena as the thief rubbed his upper lip.

GABRIELLE
Where is she?

Feeling just slightly uncomfortable with how up close and personal Gabrielle was, the thief stepped back.

AUTOLYCUS
I don't know. It's not like I've been possessed by a ghost before.

XENA'S SPIRIT
I'm right here.

AUTOLYCUS
Oh, and there she is again.

Gabrielle looked around for a moment.

GABRIELLE
So you can really hear her?

AUTOLYCUS
As clear as if she were standing right here.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Autolycus, I'm going to take control. I wanna speak directly to Gabrielle.

AUTOLYCUS
Now hold Xena, you can't just decide to take control over someone's body whenever y...

Autolycus paused as his face went completely blank for a moment, and Gabrielle watched him blink a couple times. Afterwards the thief stood up straighter and his manner of speech completely changed to match Xena's as the warrior fully took over the man's body.

XENA (IN AUTOLYCUS' BODY)
Yes, Gabrielle, I'm right here.

GABRIELLE
Xena? How..? I...

XENA (IN AUTOLYCUS' BODY)
Listen, I want you to do something. Close your eyes.

GABRIELLE
Close my eyes? I don't understand.

XENA (IN AUTOLYCUS' BODY)
Just trust me. Close your eyes tight and think of me.

Though still not understanding how any of this was happening, Gabrielle did as she was asked and closed her eyes. Letting her mind become flooded with the thoughts and memories of Xena.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

XENA
Gabrielle, Gabrielle it's me. I'm here.

The young woman opened her eyes and to her amazement, there Xena was. Back in her own body and standing right there in front of her. Though they were no longer in the forest where Gabrielle was just standing with Autolycus just a moment before.

GABRIELLE
Xena. It really is you.

Tears of joy began to fill Gabrielle's eyes as she moved to hug Xena, who held up her hand to stop her.

XENA
Yes, but not entirely.

GABRIELLE
Why did you leave Xena? There's so many things I wanted to say to you.

XENA
There's things I wish I had told you too. Things I wish I had the time to say now. But unfortunately, time is something we don't have much of right now. I need to get to the ambrosia, otherwise, I will be gone.

GABRIELLE
Xena, I can't lose you again.

Xena gave Gabrielle a warm smile as she moved closer to the blonde. She knew that if they were to fail to get the ambrosia, this could be her last chance to tell Gabrielle exactly what the younger woman mentioned to her.

XENA
Gabrielle, no matter what might happen, or whatever might physically separate us, I'll always be here.

The right words for what the raven-haired woman actually wanted to say suddenly escaping her, and feeling her strength fading, Xena did the only thing she could think to do and leaned in close to press her lips to Gabrielle's, giving her a soft but meaningful kiss that conveyed so much more than anything Xena could have actually said.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

A moment later Gabrielle opened her eyes to see Autolycus who pulled back from her, slightly after Xena relinquished control of his body and cleared his throat awkwardly.

AUTOLYCUS
Well, I um, hope you two worked things out.

Gabrielle smiled at the realization of Xena having feelings for her. Having never imagined it possible.

GABRIELLE
We did. Thank you. I mean that.

AUTOLYCUS
Oh, certainly, the king of thieves is at your service. I'm here for you both.

GABRIELLE
Autolycus.

AUTOLYCUS
Hmm?

GABRIELLE
Get your hand off my butt.

Having not realized where his hand was, Autolycus quickly removed it from Gabrielle's backside as he let out an awkward chuckle.

AUTOLYCUS
Hey, now how'd that get there?

GABRIELLE
You're impossible.

Gabrielle gave the thief a disapproving look before walking away, as Autolycus heard a chuckle from Xena who was actually the one who had gotten a little handsy with the blonde.

AUTOLYCUS
(Muttering) Very funny Xena. Are you trying to get me slapped?

GABRIELLE
So what do we do now?

Autolycus looked to see Gabrielle leaning against Xena's coffin.

XENA'S SPIRIT
Get rid of the sarcophagus.

AUTOLYCUS
What?! Why would we get rid of your coffin?

GABRIELLE
She means we have to hide it.

AUTOLYCUS
Sure. But that seems a bit easier said than done.

Gabrielle thought for a moment for where they could stow away Xena's body for the time being, and came up with an idea.

GABRIELLE
We could take it to the river. It'll float downstream, and we can pick it up later when we have the ambrosia.

AUTOLYCUS
That's actually a good idea, Gabrielle. I'm impressed.

XENA'S SPIRIT
That's my girl.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

After Xena's body had been taken care of, Gabrielle and Autolycus followed the map that Xena had the thief take from the temple as they searched for where the ambrosia was hidden, until they reached a cave.

AUTOLYCUS
This must be it. Come on, let's go inside.

Autolycus began to walk forward but was forced backwards by Xena, making him fall to the ground.

AUTOLYCUS
Hey, what was that for?

Spotting a torch on the cave wall, Gabrielle picked up a couple of stones and struck them together over the torch until it was lit, and brought it over to where Xena had stopped Autolycus and the new light revealed a pit that was full of spikes.

GABRIELLE
Good thing Xena stopped you.

AUTOLYCUS
She could've just said something instead.

Autolycus stood back up as he and Gabrielle began looking for a way across the pit. As they looked around, an odd rock caught the thief's attention.

AUTOLYCUS
Gabrielle, does the design on that rock look a bit odd to you.

XENA'S SPIRIT
(whispering) It's the dagger of Helios. The dagger you stole, Autolycus. Use it.

AUTOLYCUS
What's that, Xena, I can barely hear you.

Realizing what was happening, Gabrielle knew that they were running out of time to bring Xena back.

GABRIELLE
She's getting weaker. We have to hurry.

Gabrielle began to try figuring out what they needed to do, when she and Autolycus heard a voice behind them.

?
Oh there's no need to hurry at all.

Turning around, the blonde and the thief saw Velasca entering the corridor with several other Amazons following her.

VELASCA
There's no hurry at all. With ambrosia, you have all the time in the world.

The Amazons' eyes began to scan the cave.

VELASCA
And here I thought it was merely just legend. Now, where is the food of the gods?

With an evil smile on her face, Velasca motioned for the other women to attack Gabrielle and Autolycus.

AUTOLYCUS
Okay, Xena, this is where you come in. So if you wanna take over… any time now.

Xena didn't respond as Gabrielle and Autolycus were then forced to defend themselves when Velasca and her allies came at them with weapons drawn.

GABRIELLE
Autolycus?

AUTOLYCUS
She's gone. Xena's gone.

GABRIELLE
No. We can't be too late. We're so close.

VELASCA
(Angry tone) Where is it? Where is the ambrosia? You know, don't you?

Velasca stormed up to Autolycus, and grabbed him by the front of his shirt.

AUTOLYCUS
Well, I have an idea. But, there's just one small problem.

VELASCA
And what's that?

AUTOLYCUS
You see if I don't tell you, you'll kill me. And if I do tell you, you'll still kill me, take the ambrosia for yourself, and become a god anyway. So, as you can see there really isn't anything I'm gonna get out of this deal no matter what I do. So, I don't see much logic in helping you here.

VELASCA
Oh, but it's not whether you die, it's how you die that counts.

Velasca smiled as she pushed Autolycus back.

VELASCA
See, I enjoy inflicting pain. I like what it does to people and I like what it makes
people do.

Velasca threw Autolycus to the ground, and kicked him several times before spotting something fall off his belt.

VELASCA
The Dagger of Helios.

The Amazon bent down and picked up the dagger, realizing it must've been needed for getting to the ambrosia.

VELASCA
Now with this, nothing will stop me from taking what should be mine.

Velasca smiled as she clutched the dagger and began to leave.

GABRIELLE
No, stop!

VELASCA
Lock those two away. I'll be back to deal with them later.

Gabrielle tried to chase after the mad Amazon, but was stopped by the woman's allies as Velasca disappeared from sight, taking the key andto the last hope of reviving Xena with her as Gabrielle and Autolycus were brought back to the village and imprisoned with the others who opposed Velasca's claim to power.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

AUTOLYCUS
What are we supposed to do now, Gabrielle? That Amazon’s got the dagger. And she's going after the ambrosia.

Autolycus sat on the floor of the cell as Gabrielle paced back and forth trying to come up with anything they could do.

GABRIELLE
I don't know yet. Xena's usually the one who comes up with the plans.

EPHINY
That's it then. We lost. And now Velasca will become a god.

Gabrielle stopped walking and looked at Ephiny who was in the same large cell along with the rest of the women who opposed Velasca.

GABRIELLE
No. We can't give up. As long as there's anyone to stand up to her it's not over.

Gabrielle turned to walk away, but stopped momentarily to look back over her shoulder toward Ephiny.

GABRIELLE
And on top of that I'm not about to stay here and waste my only opportunity of getting Xena back.

The long-haired blonde turned her attention toward Autolycus.

GABRIELLE
Okay Autolycus, you think you can get us out of here?

The thief smirked.

AUTOLYCUS
Why Gabrielle, I thought you'd never ask.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Once Autolycus picked the cell's lock, he, Gabrielle, Ephiny and the others made their way outside and after taking out a couple of guards they all hurried out of the village.

GABRIELLE
Ephiny, I need you to follow the river downstream and find Xena's coffin. Then bring it to the hall of ambrosia. Autolycus has the map for where to find it.

The thief handed Ephiny the folded up map before the Amazon headed off, taking another of the women there with her as Gabrielle and Autolycus hurried to stop Velasca before she could getgett her hands on the ambrosia.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

VELASCA
This is it.

The Amazon entered a large corridor, seeing her prize, the ambrosia sitting on a pedestal high above her and began to climb up toward it.

VELASCA
My destiny. It turns out Melosa was right about my not being meant to be Queen. I was meant to be a god.

Several moments later as she continued her accent, a voice echoed around her.

?
Velasca!

The Amazon smiled as she looked down to see Gabrielle and Autolycus enter the corridor.

VELASCA
Ah, Gabrielle, how nice of you to show up. Now I won't have to go back to the village to kill you. And how lucky for you that before you die, you'll get to witness the birth of a god.

The Amazon continued to climb as Gabrielle and Autolycus tried to think of how to stop her.

AUTOLYCUS
How are we supposed to catch her before she reaches the ambrosia? I can't climb with a broken arm.

GABRIELLE
But I can.

AUTOLYCUS
I don't know Gabrielle, If you fall, Xena's liable to come back just to kill me.

GABRIELLE
Don't be ridiculous Autolycus, I wouldn't actually kill you.

AUTOLYCUS
"You" wouldn't? Wait.

The thief looked a little closer at Gabrielle and noticed a much more focused and intense look in the woman's eyes.

AUTOLYCUS
Xena?

XENA (IN GABRIELLE'S BODY)
Yup.

Then without another word, while controlling Gabrielle's body, Xena grabbed her chakram from Autolycus and lept upward to grab one of the vines and quickly began climbing after Velasca. She was easily able to catch up to the Amazon who kicked at her when the warrior got close and shook the vine Xena held, trying to get her to fall. Instead Xena grabbed Velasca's ankle and pulled at her. Feeling herself beginning to slip, the Amazon held tighter to the vine with one hand as she grabbed the dagger on her waist and cut the vine Xena was on, causing the woman to drop several feet down before she was able to catch herself on another vine and resumedresumeed climbing until she reached just below the pedestal that held the ambrosia.

VELASCA
It's mine. It's all mine.

The Amazon drove the dagger into the stone, causing a trap door to open from above and drop the ambrosia. Velasca reached out to catch it but feltfeels Xena shake her vine, causing her to miss it.

VELASCA
No!

Immediately, Velasca began to slide down the vine after it, not even noticing when she passed Gabrielle's Xena possessed body, until she heard Gabrielle's voice make an angry yell and looked up just in time to see the vine she was holding get cut. This sent Velasca plummeting down to the spikes below that impaled her in multiple places on impact, as Xena's last bit of strength faded and Gabrielle regained control of her body. Regaining consciousness, the bard looked down to where Velasca and the ambrosia had fallen and quickly averted her eyes at the gruesome sight of Velasca's motionless body that had been skewered by the spikes. Her mind then returned to Xena as the hope of reviving her began to fade until she looked down once again and spotted the ambrosia laying splattered next to Velasca.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) If I can just get a small piece, maybe it'll be enough.

Not ready to give up hope just yet, Gabrielle reached over to another vine and cut it, before bringing it with her as she slid down the vine she was holding until she neared the bottom. She then pulled up the rest of it to tie it together what the long section of vine she had cut and then continued further down until she hung just over the spikes and Velasca.

GABRIELLE
Oh gods.

The blonde looked away for a moment after seeing Velasca's condition up close, but quickly reminded herself that she needed to hurry and put all her focus on just getting a piece of the now scattered ambrosia. She lowered herself as far as she could and held on as tight as she could with one hand , reached down between the spikes for a piece of the godly fruit. All the while, hoping that the vines she had cobbled together would hold. As not only her life, but Xena's depended on it.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

EPHINY
Gabrielle. We're here. We got Xena's body.

Ephiny, along with a few other women entered the corridor carrying Xena's coffin. Before stopping when she didn't see Gabrielle anywhere.

EPHINY
Gabrielle?

GABRIELLE
Right here.

Ephiny turned her attention toward where Gabrielle's voice had come from, to see the young woman climbing out of the pit.

EPHINY
Gabrielle, what happened? Are you okay?

GABRIELLE
I'm fine.

The young woman stood up before rushing over to where the Amazons had sat Xena's body.

GABRIELLE
Hurry and open the coffin,

The Amazons did as Gabrielle requested as Autolycus came over to stand beside them.

AUTOLYCUS
But the Ambrosia got destroyed when it fell into the spike pit.

Gabrielle smirked as she reached into her top and pulled out a small piece of the ambrosia.

GABRIELLE
Not quite.

AUTOLYCUS
So that's what took you so long to get back up here.

The thief let out an exaggerated sigh of relief.

AUTOLYCUS
And here I was beginning to think the worst had happened and you didn't make it.

The other Amazons opened Xena's coffin as Gabrielle knelt down beside the warrior.

GABRIELLE
To any of the gods out there, please let this work.

Gently, Gabrielle parted Xena's lips just enough to place the ambrosia in Xena's mouth, and then rested both her hands on the edge of Xena's coffin as she waited, hoping that she had given Xena the ambrosia in time.

AUTOLYCUS
What now?

GABRIELLE
I don't know.

The younger woman reached into the coffin and took the warrior's hand in hers.

GABRIELLE
Xena. Xena. Can you hear me? Xena, come back. Please, come back.

The seconds passing felt like the longest in Gabrielle's life as she hoped with everything she had that all their effort to revive Xena hadn't been for nothing.

GABRIELLE
Xena?

Suddenly, Gabrielle felt Xena's hand moving and looked down to see it lightly close around hers before she heard what to her in that moment was the most beautiful sound in all the world.

XENA
Gabrielle.

Gabrielle felt her heart leap with joy as she raised her eyes to see Xena looking back at her and smiled as she fought to keep from throwing herself over the woman and never letting go.

GABRIELLE
It's okay now. Xena. Let's get out of here.

Having not completely regained her strength yet, Xena was helped out of the coffin by Gabrielle and Autolycus as the trio and the rest of the Amazons made their way out of the cave.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

GABRIELLE
I don't really know how to thank you, Autolycus.

The thief smiled as he, Gabrielle, Xena and the other Amazons stood in the wooded area just outside the Amazon village.

AUTOLYCUS
Don't mention it Gabrielle. After all, pulling off such an amazing feat is all in a day's work for...

Autolycus took an overly dramatic bow before standing back upright as he continued.

AUTOLYCUS
The king of thieves.

XENA
You can't take anything seriously can you?

Gabrielle and Xena looked at each other for a moment, as the blonde smiled before Xena returned her attention to the thief.

XENA
But seriously, thank you for helping to bring me back. If you ever need a favor, just ask.

Autolycus scoffed sarcastically.

AUTOLYCUS
Bringing you back? Oh ho! No, no, no. I let you experience what it's like to be Autolycus. You were in there. You were controlling my bodily functions. That's not something I do for everyone. And besides, think of all the fame I can gain for being the man that helped bring the great Xena, warrior princess back to life.

Xena smiled at the man's obviously fake brovato..

X ENA
You know, Autolycus, you might not like letting people see who you really are, but despite all that bluster you like to show, you're a good person. And I should know, I could see everything going on in your head and heart while I was inside you.

AUTOLYCUS
Oh, come on, don't say it like that.

Gabrielle giggled slightly at Autolycus' comment as Xena rolled her eyes and continued.

XENA
The point is. I knew I could trust you. And I will always be grateful to you for helping me.

Autolycus shrugged due to him being a thief, he didn't much care for being called a "good person" and decided to move the conversation forward.

AUTOLYCUS
Yes, well...yes, there you have it. Thank you. And if it's all the same, I think I'll keep that favor
thing in mind. It might just come in handy one day for...

The thief bowed slightly before raising his head and giving Xena a wink and a smile.

AUTOLYCUS
The King of Thieves.

Standing back upright, Autolycus bid Xena farewell as Gabrielle came over and said goodbye to their friend before the thief left and just the two women standing there.

GABRIELLE
Xena.

XENA
Yeah.

The warrior turned to face the other woman and was taken a little by surprise when Gabrielle threw her arms around her and laid her head against her chest.

GABRIELLE
Promise me that you'll never die on me again.

Xena smiled as she wrapped Gabrielle in an embrace and the two stood there in one another's arms for a long while as Xena placed a light kiss on the blonde head.

XENA
I promise, Gabrielle. I promise.

After a few moments, the two separated.

XENA
Now, why don't we go find an inn for the night? I'm pretty sure there's not one far from here and I think we could both use a nice hot meal, relaxing bath and comfortable bed after the last few days we've had.

Xena reached over and brushed a few golden strands of hair from Gabrielle's face.

XENA
Especially you.

Gabrielle smiled softly as she felt Xena's hand linger against her skin just a little longer than necessary.

GABRIELLE
That sounds perfect.

Not saying anything else, Xena whistled for Argo who was munching on some grass not far away and came over when she heard the warrior call. It was only a few moments later that Xena reached down from Argo's saddle and helped Gabrielle up to sit in her usual spot behind her. She smiled to herself as she felt the other woman wrap her arms firmly around her midsection and lay her head against her back, unable to see the look of pure love and contentment on Gabrielle's face as they rode off, happily together once again. And as the horse made a turn onto a dirt road, what neither woman knew was, come nightfall, the past day’s events would finally bring everything that had been kept silent between them to light.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

The sun was low when the newly revived Xena brought Argo to a stop in front of a small inn within the nearest town she could find, after she and Gabrielle had parted ways with Autolycus and the Amazons.

GABRIELLE
It's a good way from that cave. I can't believe you actually walked all the way here.

The raven-haired warrior shrugged nonchalantly.

XENA
I guess, after being dead for a bit I figured I could use the exercise.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly angry tone) You know, you're unbelievable, Xena.

Hearing the sudden change in the blonde's tone, Xena turned around to look at the woman that was still seated on the horse behind her.

XENA
What?

GABRIELLE
How can you be so casual about dying? You could've been gone forever and you're standing here making jokes about it.

Hearing the hurt in Gabrielle's voice, the warrior moved to stand beside her.

XENA
I'm sorry, Gabrielle.

Xena put her hand on Gabrielle's knee as she looked up into a pair of saddened green eyes.

XENA
I didn't mean to make light of everything. I know it's been hard for you. But I'm here now, and I'm not going anywhere.

Xena patted the other woman's leg before holding out her hand and giving her best comforting smile.

XENA
Now come on. Let's get you down from there so I can get Argo settled in the stable while you see about getting us a room.

Managing a small smile in response, Gabrielle let Xena help her down from the mare and was then handed a few coins, before the warrior began leading Argo toward the stable.

XENA
See about ordering some dinner too, and I'll meet you in our room in a little bit.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Gabrielle walked into the small room she had gotten for her and Xena, putting her bag on the floor by the door, before moving further inside to light a candle that sat on the nightstand to see better.

GABRIELLE
That's better.

The young woman then returned to where she had left her things, and brought them over to the bed and got out a fresh scroll along with her quill and ink, realizing that with everything that had happened between Xena dying, things with the Amazons and racing against time to bring Xena back, it had been a while since she'd written anything. So Gabrielle figured now that things finally seemed to be returning back to normal, it might be a good time to write about those latest events, and sat down on the bed to do just that.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

XENA
Sorry I took so long.

Hearing Xena's voice, Gabrielle looked up from her paper and smiled, as she saw the warrior standing in the doorway, holding a tray of food.

XENA
Hungry?

GABRIELLE
Starving.

Xena walked over and placed the tray on the bed, and went back to shut the door to their room as Gabrielle put her writing supplies away.

GABRIELLE
Sorry, the only room they had open only had one bed.

Xena shrugged as she walked back over and sat on the foot of the aforementioned bed to take off her boots.

XENA
No big deal. I can just sleep on the floor.

GABRIELLE
Don't be silly Xena, the bed’s plenty big enough for both of us.

The bard walked over to where Xena was still working on her boots.

GABRIELLE
And besides, in the time you've been gone, I've missed waking up to see you next to me.

The raven-haired warrior looked up at Gabrielle and smiled softly.

XENA
I've missed that too.

GABRIELLE
You know it's funny how you don't notice a lot of those little things until you don't have 'em anymore

Hearing those words brought a heavy feeling to Xena's heart as she felt for what Gabrielle must've been going through in the days since the warrior had died. Her own mind going back to the temple where she nearly lost Gabrielle and everything she felt while doing whatever she could to save the young woman.

XENA
Yeah. I can imagine that must've been hard.

Xena returned to pulling off her boots only to hear Gabrielle ask her something she had anticipated was coming but still had no answer to.

GABRIELLE
Why'd you leave like that, Xena? I've seen you take far worse and walk away relatively fine before, so why? Why'd you just give up?

Xena sighed as she got her second boot off and sat up straight to see the other woman standing right in front of her.

XENA
I don't know. I guess after seeing Cira, while I was unconscious my mind went to a dark place. Back to what I used to be. I think a part of me just figured I'd never be able to make up for everything so...

GABRIELLE
You left me because of your guilt.

Xena sighed as she tried to better explain herself.

XENA
Gabrielle. Iit's not like that. I wasn't leaving you.

GABRIELLE
But you did, Xena. You left, and I didn't know what to do.

The younger woman fought to maintain her composure, but Xena could see Gabrielle fighting to hold back the tears from the pain that still remained surrounding the warrior's death.

XENA
Gabrielle, come here.

The dark-haired woman took Gabrielle's hand and had her sit on the bed next to her as she turned to face the blonde.

XENA
I never wanted to leave you. I...

Xena paused for a moment, uncertain of how she wanted to continue. But then gathered her thoughts and resumed speaking.

XENA
It was never my intention to hurt you. But I'm so sorry I did. You are so important and dear to me.

As she spoke, Xena reached up and softly cupped Gabrielle's cheek.

XENA
And if you don't know that, I suppose that's just one more thing that I have to make up for.

Seeing the warmth and sincerity on the warrior's face, Gabrielle couldn't help but think back to when she first discovered Xena's spirit was in Autolycus, and what had happened between them. Something that if Gabrielle was being honest, had been replaying in the back of her mind. And now she was afraid to know if it had meant the same to Xena as it did her.

GABRIELLE
Xena, can I ask you something?

Xena lowered her hand to hold Gabrielle's, that rested on her lap.

XENA
Always.

GABRIELLE
While you were in Autolycus' body, what happened between us? I mean, it felt like you were telling me something and...

Suddenly, despite having wished for Xena to see her as more than a friend for a good while now, Gabrielle began to feel uncertain if she should bring up the subject. After all, what if the kiss they shared didn't actually mean anything other than a way for Xena to prove it was really her? So feeling embarrassed for even bringing the subject up, Gabrielle looked away as she tried to play the whole situation off.

GABRIELLE
You know what, never mind. It doesn't matter. I'm probably reading too much into it.

Wanting to move on, the young woman began to stand, but was stopped when Xena didn't let go of her hand.

XENA
Gabrielle, wait.

The blonde looked back at the woman who was still seated on the bed, looking up at her.

XENA
You're right. There was more I wanted to tell you.

Not letting the other woman go, Xena rose from her spot on the bed to stand in front of the blonde.

XENA
Something I wish I had said back in that temple after I thought I'd lost you.

The warrior moved in close to Gabrielle so there was barely an inch between them, and gently lifted Gabrielle's chin to look her in the eye.

XENA
I love you, Gabrielle.

Lowering her head slightly, Xena placed a light kiss on the bard's lips. And was repaid with Gabrielle closing her eyes and pressing deeper into the kiss as she wrapped her arms around the warrior's waist. After standing there for a long moment, Xena finally pulled her head back a little as she matched Gabrielle's embrace and the bard laid her head against the taller woman's chest.

GABRIELLE
I love you, Xena. And the truth is, I have for a long time. I was just too afraid to say anything. You're my best friend and I didn't wanna ruin that. But then when you died, I regretted not telling you how I felt so much.

XENA
I'm sorry. If I had told you how I felt sooner, you wouldn't have had to carry that guilt.

Xena chuckled.

XENA
Though, I guess we really are two very different people.

The blonde raised her head to look at the warrior.

GABRIELLE
What do you mean?

XENA
I realize I have feelings for you after almost losing you and decide I'm better off keeping it to myself. Then I die, and you regret not saying anything.

GABRIELLE
(Joking) If this is what it takes for us to just be honest with ourselves, I'm starting to think there's something wrong with us.

Xena smiled.

XENA
(Half joking) Come on Gabrielle, you already know there's plenty wrong with me. Which begs the question of what you could possibly see that made you feel the way you do?

The younger woman pulled back from the warrior with a slightly unhappy look on her face.

GABRIELLE
That's not true, Xena. You know I don't like it when you talk about yourself like that. You're a good person. I don't care about what you've done in the past. You've put that life behind you. The Xena I see standing here in front of me is nothing like the woman you've told me you once were. And this Xena, that's right here, with me, right now, is the only one I care about.

Gabrielle raised up to her tiptoes to capture the warrior's lips with hers once again. The kiss continued for another long moment before becoming more impassioned when without thinking, Xena let her tongue pass into Gabrielle's mouth and began to dance with other woman's. The room fell silent except for the small audible moans that managed to escape the women's otherwise busy mouths, until the need for air forced the pair to separate for air, their hearts beating rapidly as they tried to catch their breath. And Gabrielle laid her head back against the warrior's chest as another thought came to her mind.

GABRIELLE
Hey, can I ask you something else about what happened with you in Autolycus' body?

XENA
Mmm?

GABRIELLE
That wasn't Autolycus that put his hand on my butt, was it?

XENA
Oh, you remember that?

Having not expected Gabrielle to bring that particular part of that interaction, Xena found herself feeling somewhat flustered for what she should say as she pulled back to look at the other woman.

XENA
Sorry, I just got lost in the moment there. Not that it makes it okay.

Gabrielle couldn’t help but let out a small giggle at how uncharacteristically uncomfortable Xena seemed from her bringing up the subject. But then decided she couldn't just leave the woman to worry that she had crossed a boundary she shouldn't have.

GABRIELLE
Don't worry Xena, I'm not upset.

XENA
You're not?

GABRIELLE
Well admittedly, I was a bit annoyed with Autolycus when I thought he was just trying to take advantage of an opportunity. But then I thought about it later, I kinda figured out it was you when nothing happened to Autolycus afterwards.

The dark-haired warrior raised an inquisitive eyebrow at the comment.

XENA
So, just to get this straight, you were upset when you thought it was Autolycus that grabbed you, but you're okay with me doing it.

Gabrielle smiled bashfully, feeling her face becoming hot as she looked down, trying to keep the blush from showing on her face.

GABRIELLE
And what would happen if I was?

The younger woman felt Xena's hand touch her cheek as the warrior gently lifted her face back to look at her.

XENA
What would you like to happen?

GABRIELLE
I don't know. I mean I've thought about it. About us being together like that I mean. Well kind of. But I never... you know, with anyone before, so I guess I didn't really have much to go on. Especially since you're another woman, and until you came along I never really thought about women that way. Not that there's anything wrong with that. I just always figured when it did happen iIt'd be different and...

XENA
Gabrielle, Gabrielle relax.

Xena placed her hand on the woman's knee to get her attention and try to calm her nervous rambling.

XENA
Nothing's gonna happen between us, unless you want it to.

Gabrielle put her hand over Xena's as she took a moment to gather her racing thoughts, before speaking again.

GABRIELLE
It's not that I don't. I do, actually. I guess, I'm just a little nervous about whether I'll do things right or not.

Xena gave the woman a small, reassuring smile.

XENA
That's understandable. Most everyone feels that way about their first time. But trust me, you have nothing to worry about.

Xena placed a light kiss on Gabrielle's lips.

XENA
So if you're sure you wanna do this, we'll take it as slow as you want.

Gabrielle smiled as she could feel herself stirring with desire as she looked into the ocean of blue eyes of the woman she loved. Who she had dreamt of being in this moment with for too long. And knew without that the answer she was about to give would start her and Xena down a new road in their relationship. A road that Gabrielle had been dreaming of walking down with the warrior, and wasn't about to turn away from now as she kissed the dark-haired warrior and gave her reply.

GABRIELLE
I'm sure.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

In the dimly lit room of the inn, Xena took Gabrielle's hand and pressed her lips to the soft skin after hearing the young woman tell her that she wanted her.

XENA 
I love you.

The warrior brought her mouth to meet the blonde's several times.

GABRIELLE 
I love you, Xena.

Short words of affection were spoken by both women between their lips and tongues meeting a few more times, before Xena began to smooth her lips down Gabrielle's neck. The blonde took a sharp inhale as the warrior made contact with the exposed area of her chest above her shirt, feeling the woman's breath against her skin. Xena continued tracing her lips across Gabrielle's upper chest and neck, all the while hearing the clearly increasingly delighted rasps from the young woman who brought her hands up to entangle in the warrior's dark hair as she softly mewed the woman's name. The sound was like music to Xena's ears as she brought her mouth back up to Gabrielle's, as her fingertips began to roam across the woman's toned stomach and slowly move upward to lightly graze her palms over young woman's covered breasts.

GABRIELLE 
(Eager Whisper) Xena.

Hearing the way Gabrielle spoke her name into her ear, Xena could feel her center quiver and had to push down the urge to take Gabrielle right then and there, as the warrior wanted to go slow with the inexperienced woman, knowing that it was her first time. So instead, Xena continued to lovingly handle the blonde's peaks for another few moments before catching the string to Gabrielle's top between her fingers and slowly tugged at it to undo the tie. The string came undone and Xena continued to pull at the strings until the bard's shirt fell open and exposed her breasts to the warrior's eyes. Gabrielle felt the warmth of Xena's direct touch and let out a small sigh as she felt the other woman begin molding her hands over the sensitive flesh. They shared another deep kiss before Xena again traced her lips downward. Gabrielle then let her head fall back a little as she felt Xena's lips graze her nipple. The warrior then traced around the area with the tip of her tongue, flicking it a number of times before the younger woman let out another small sigh as she felt Xena close lips around the nipple and suck on it. Xena continued to suckle the bard's breast for a little bit before moving her lips to the other peek, and alternated between using lips and tongue to tease the supple skin. All the while loving the symphony of tantalizing sounds coming from Gabrielle, who could feel her nippleshardening and the area between her legs becoming increasingly wet as it almost seemed to ache with need.

GABRIELLE 
(Wanting tone) Oh gods, Xena.

The dark-haired warrior continued to suck and mold Gabrielle's breasts for another few moments before taking her mouth away, and pushed Gabrielle's open top off her shoulders and the blonde let it fall off her arms to the bed before bringing her hands up to cup Xena's face, pulling the woman closer seize her lips passionately. Their lips pressing together several times, Xena pulled back just out of Gabrielle's reach as both women breathed heavily.

XENA 
(Seductive Whisper) Lay down.

Doing as Xena asked, the younger woman laid back onto the bed as Xena stood to remove Gabrielle's boots, crouching down beside the bed as she set them on the floor before tracing her fingertips up Gabrielle's leg to her skirt, pushing it up as her hands continued toward their destination. Gabrielle let out a deep exhale when she felt Xena's fingertips brush up against her heated center through her underwear, causing the dark-haired woman to smirk at the reaction she got as she began to stroke her finger against the covered folds.

XENA 
(Seductive tone) You like having me touch you there?

Gabrielle raised her head to look at Xena and nodded, before another moan escaped her lips when she felt Xena's finger press a little harder against her as the warrior began slowly stroking up and down, the young woman's sex and the blonde laid her head back down. Xena continued lightly touching Gabrielle over the fabric of her underwear for another few moments, feeling the evidence of Gabrielle's increasing arousal beginning to seep through the thin piece of cloth separating Xena from directly touching her. She carried on for another couple moments before taking her hand away, and smirked when she heard a slightly disappointed groan and looked up to see a matching expression on Gabrielle's face.

XENA 
(Seductive tone) Don't worry, we're only just getting started.

The warrior then stood and undid the button keeping Gabrielle's skirt up and with a little assistance from the blonde, slid both it and the woman's underwear down and let them drop to the floor. Afterwards Xena stood there for a moment, taking in the beautiful sight of Gabrielle's fully nude form, and felt her breath catch in her throat, before having to mentally remind herself to breathe.

GABRIELLE 
Everything okay, Xena?

The raven-haired warrior smiled as leaned over the blonde and placed a small kiss on the woman's lips.

XENA 
Just making a mental note of how lucky I am to have you.

The blonde felt herself blush but tried to play it off.

GABRIELLE 
(Joking tone) Oh stop, Xena.

XENA 
I'm serious.

Xena brushed a bit of golden hair behind Gabrielle's ear as she continued.

XENA
You really are amazing Gabrielle, and I don't know where I'd be right now if not for you.

GABRIELLE 
...Xena.

The warrior laid a light kiss on Gabrielle's lips before standing upright and undid the buckles to her armor, setting it on the chair nearby and reached behind her, undoing the string to her leather top and Gabrielle watched as Xena seemed to move in slow motion when pulling off the leather revealing her ample breasts, and Gabrielle unintentionally swallowed hard as her yearning for the warrior suddenly intensified greatly, until she realized that she had been staring at the woman and lowered her gaze from her chest.

GABRIELLE 
Sorry, I didn't mean to stare.

Xena chuckled at the younger woman's bashfulness as she moved to sit on the edge of the bed.

XENA 
Come on, Gabrielle, it's not like this is the first time you've seen me naked. Or me you.

GABRIELLE 
Yeah, but this is different than just doing stuff like taking a bath together.

XENA 
Sure, but there's nothing for you to feel embarrassed about. If anything I take it as a compliment that you clearly like what you see.
(Teasing tone) Unless you'd rather I keep my clothes on.

Gabrielle smiled as Xena's lighthearted comment made her forget her embarrassment, and Xena stood to finish getting undressed before moving to kneel over the young woman. She kissed her as she lowered her body to cover Gabrielle's, feeling the other woman's arms wrap around her as she positioned her center against the woman beneath her, and the warrior began to slowly rock her hips back and forth. Gabrielle let out a soft sigh as she felt Xena's sex pressing against hers. She looked up into the raven-haired woman's eyes and couldn't see anything but love as Xena gently moved against her. 

GABRIELLE 
I love you, Xena 

The dark-haired woman smiled softly as continued to grind her femininity against Gabrielle's, and after a few minutes heard the woman beneath her begin to breathe a little harder as she moaned.

GABRIELLE 
(Quiet moan) Oh, Xena.

The warrior kept the slow pace for a bit, letting Gabrielle enjoy a gentle and gradual build to orgasm. The blonde tightened her grip around Xena as she began to feel something building deep within her. 

GABRIELLE 
(Panting) Xena, I...

XENA 
(Panting) It's okay Gabrielle. Just let it come.

Knowing the blonde woman was nearing her climax, Xena forged on, driving against Gabrielle a little faster. The increased momentum propelling the warrior toward her own release. The bard clung tightly to the woman above her. The warm, tingling sensation continued to grow stronger within her depths, and she let out a series of blissful cries until Xena's movements finally sent her over the edge and Gabrielle felt her nether region begin to quiver and a warmth flooded through her depths as she came. Her own orgasm on the horizon, Xena continued to thrust herself against Gabrielle as the other woman's rapturous cries pushed her even closer to the edge of ecstasy. The raven-haired woman raised up from laying on top of Gabrielle as she ground herself harder against the blonde's heated core, feeling the good deal of wetness that had gathered there from the both of them as she could sense her climax just moments away.

XENA 
Yes. Yes, oh f...

Xena surged forward one more time as her words were abruptly interrupted by a loud, primal sounding moan that was caused by the warrior beginning to feel her sex pulse and spasm as a euphoric sensation surged through her depths and her orgasmic high overtook her. Gabrielle watched as the dark-haired woman threw her head back and she rode out the remainder of the rapturous climax as her previously rhythmic movements changed to erratic, short thrusts as Xena bucked against Gabrielle several more times. Enjoying the lingering, gratifying aftershocks that vibrated through her core, before lowering herself down to lay over the woman under her as she began trying to catch her breath, and felt the exhilarating sensation between her legs beginning to subside.

GABRIELLE 
That was wonderful, Xena.

The warrior raised her head and smiled as she brushed a bit of hair from Gabrielle's face and kissed her.

XENA 
Glad to hear you enjoyed it.

The raven-haired woman slid to Gabrielle's side and put her arms around the woman, pulling her into a loving embrace as the blonde laid her head on her shoulder. The pair then laid there together contently for a few moments before Gabrielle broke the silence.

GABRIELLE 
Xena?

XENA 
Yeah?

GABRIELLE 
I was just wondering.

XENA 
'Bout what?

GABRIELLE 
Well, I was wondering if you could do something.

XENA 
That depends.

Xena idly traced her fingertips along the other woman's arm and shoulder as she continued.

XENA 
(Joking tone) If it involves me leaving this bed right now, I'm afraid you're out of luck. 

Gabrielle chuckled a little as she laid her arm over Xena's midsection and tilted her head to look at the other woman.

GABRIELLE 
Don't worry, I don't want you to go anywhere.

XENA 
Well in that case ask away.

GABRIELLE 
Well I...

The blonde paused, realizing she was unsure of how to word what she wanted to ask. Watching the woman beside her, Xena could see the conflict on Gabrielle's face and rolled to her side to face the younger woman.

XENA 
Gabrielle if something's on your mind, you know you can tell me, right? After everything that's happened with both of us nearly losing each other, and then finally getting out of our own way to tell each other how we truly felt, I was hoping that would be the end of us keeping things from one another.

Gabrielle turned her head to look at the woman beside her.

GABRIELLE 
I know. 

The young woman returned her gaze to the ceiling, feeling too embarrassed to look at Xena as she continued.

GABRIELLE 
I just don't really know how to put it.

Xena chuckled,, causing the blonde to return her attention to the woman laying beside her.

XENA 
Gabrielle, I've seen you come up with things on spot while trying to talk your way out of a situation or to get something you want. Along with the way you can spin a story when you write like no one else I've seen. So you'll have to excuse me if I find it a little hard to believe that you, of all people, can't find the right words to say something.

GABRIELLE 
Yeah but...

Gabrielle paused again as she lowered her eyes and Xena could see the younger woman's face turning slightly pink which caused the raven-haired woman to realize what Gabrielle's question was likely about.

XENA 
(Soft tone) Gabrielle, look at me.

Hearing the tenderness in the warrior's voice, Gabrielle raised her gaze to meet the other woman's as she felt Xena's hand taking hers.

XENA 
You don't ever need to be embarrassed or nervous to ask me anything. No matter what it might be about.

Xena smiled as she continued.

XENA 
And besides I sincerely doubt you of all people could say anything that would surprise me when it comes to anything that happens between the sheets... 
(Thinking out loud) Or other places.

Gabrielle couldn't help but smile and shake her head at the last bit the warrior said, as it seemed to do the trick in helping to ease her apprehension.

GABRIELLE 
Okay.

XENA 
Good.

The raven-haired woman brought Gabrielle's hand to her lips and lightly pressed her lips to it before continuing.

XENA 
So what did you wanna ask?

GABRIELLE 
Well I was wondering if maybe you could, or rather what it would feel like to have you in...  

Despite her reassurance, Xena could tell that it would take some time before Gabrielle felt completely comfortable with voicing what she wanted when it came to sex. Something that the warrior honestly found somewhat adorable about the young woman. As it was a stark contrast compared to the usual bold and vocal approach Gabrielle took toward everything else, Xena had seen the younger woman face. And so, having a good guess as to what Gabrielle was trying to ask, Xena felt for the blonde and took the initiative in finishing Gabrielle's sentence.

XENA 
You want me inside you.

Actually hearing her desire vocalized, Gabrielle felt her face get hot. Which gave Xena the answer to her question without the young woman even saying a word as Xena smirked, finding it impossible to stop herself from lovingly teasing the blonde.

XENA 
(Teasing tone) What's that Gabrielle? I couldn't hear you.

GABRIELLE 
Come on Xena, you know.

XENA 
(Teasing tone) Do I?

The dark-haired warrior brought her lips close to Gabrielle's ear and whispered into it seductively.

XENA 
(Seductive tone) Tell me, Gabrielle.

Gabrielle gasped softly as she felt Xena's hand move down between her legs, and begin to lightly rub her fingers along her folds.

XENA 
(Seductive tone) What do you want me to do?

The blonde shuddered in anticipation as she felt a renewed yearning quickly awaken within her core, but still couldn't quite bring herself to say what she wanted or what she knew Xena was waiting to hear. 

GABRIELLE 
(Wanting tone) I...

XENA 
(Seductive tone) That's it, just say the words and your wish is my command.

The warrior continued to gently stroke a single finger along Gabrielle's womanhood, as the younger woman's desire soon became too much and she pushed her embarrassment aside, and gave the other woman a pleading expression as she let the words fall from her lips.

GABRIELLE 
(Wanting tone) Please, Xena. I want... I wanna feel you inside me.

The dark-haired woman smiled as she brushed her lips against Gabrielle's ear.

XENA 
(Sensual Whisper) See, that wasn't so difficult. Was it?

Xena paused stroking Gabrielle's center and moved her mouth to kiss the blonde before continuing to speak.

XENA 
All you ever have to do is simply ask for anything, Gabrielle. And it's yours. Whatever it is.

A smile crossed Gabrielle's lips as she realized the reasoning for the warrior pushing her on what seemed like such a trivial thing.

GABRIELLE 
I got it.

XENA 
Good to hear.

Xena resumed lightly teasing her finger along Gabrielle's womanhood for a little longer before finding the woman's clit and began moving small circles on the sensitive little nub. The action immediately getting the exact reaction Xena wanted, as she got a rousing moan from Gabrielle in response.

XENA 
(Seductive tone) You like that?

GABRIELLE 
(Breathing deeply) Yes. Oh, Xena.

Gabrielle grabbed at the blanket under her as the warrior smiled, continuing to rub against the bard's little bundle of nerves for a little longer, before switching to using her thumb as she moved her fingers lower toward the young woman's entrance.

XENA 
Are you ready?

Gabrielle nodded.

XENA 
Alright. Just try to relax and focus on what I'm doing here.

The raven-haired woman pressed down a little firmer on Gabrielle's clit, causing an erotic groan to leave the younger woman's lips, before Xena continued speaking.

XENA 
It might hurt a little, but I promise I'll be as gentle as I can.

GABRIELLE 
I trust you, Xena.

Xena captured Gabrielle's lips with hers as she continued moving her thumb, before pulling her face back slightly. She then slowly guided a single finger into the blonde's opening, careful not to go too far just yet, as she heard Gabrielle let out a pleasing sigh. The warrior then began to slowly glide her finger back and forth, as she heard the bard whisper her name. After a little bit, Xena gradually began to press into the blonde's warmth just a little faster as she gently introduced a second finger into Gabrielle, who arched her shoulders slightly at the thrilling feeling of having more of Xena inside her.

GABRIELLE 
(Quiet blissful tone) Oh, gods.

Xena carried on, now deliberately weaving two of her digits in and out of Gabrielle's sex, as the woman relished the sensation of the warrior touching her so intimately. Keeping a slow moving pace, the dark-haired woman continuously burrowed into the bard while simultaneously maintaining her onslaught of the blonde's clit, who could feel herself already beginning to build once again toward a second orgasm as she brought her arms up to wrap around Xena's neck and held tightly to the woman.

GABRIELLE 
(Breathing heavily) Xena.

After another couple moments of hearing Gabrielle's intensifying cries of passion, Xena slowly began to press her fingers just slightly further into the young woman's depths with every thrust of her hand, until she reached Gabrielle's barrier and stilled her probing fingers while continuing to stroke the bard's clit. Gabrielle mewed as she enjoyed the sensation of her nub being stimulated while feeling Xena inside of her. The dark-haired woman continued just sweeping her digit over Gabrielle's most sensitive spot for another moment before looking into Gabrielle's eyes.

XENA 
Remember, just relax.

Gabrielle didn't get to respond as she let out a loud gasp when she felt Xena's fingers swiftly enter her fully as they pushed past the barrier of the young woman's virginity.

GABRIELLE 
Xena!

Gabrielle clung as tightly as she could to the raven-haired warrior, who did her best to soothe the younger woman.

XENA 
(Soft tone) Shhh, I know. It's okay.

The warrior continued rubbing the woman's clit while keeping her other hand still for the time being, giving Gabrielle some time to adjust to the intrusion as she kissed the blonde's forehead. 

XENA 
(Soft tone) The pain will begin to subside soon.

Continuing to thumb Gabrielle's little nub, Xena could feel the blonde's body becoming less tense and begin to acclimate to having the warrior's fingers so deep inside her. The dark-haired warrior carried on like that for a little longer and smiled softly when she heard the other woman begin to make satisfying sighs, telling Xena that Gabrielle was beginning to become at least a little more comfortable. 

XENA 
That's it. Just focus on that sensation you feel building.

Gabrielle moaned as she felt Xena's thumb continue to stroke her bundle of nerves, as the woman's expert touch pushed the bard closer toward release. 

GABRIELLE 
(Breathing deeply) Oh, Yes. Oh.

Taking note of the lustful sounds the bard had begun to make, Xena maintained her work on the woman's sensitive little bud and slowly began to retract the fingers that had been resting nestled inside Gabrielle's cavern until just the warrior's fingertips remained in contact with the sensitive flesh, before easing them back into the bard's opening. Gabrielle gasped, feeling the raven-haired woman beginning to pump her fingers in and out of her as Xena slowly repeated the motion again and then again, pressing deep into the young woman.

GABRIELLE 
(Breathing heavily) Xena.

The combination of Xena's fingers moving within her along with the attention the warrior was giving to Gabrielle's clit, was propelling the bard ever closer to release. This was made clear by the exhilarating cries Xena heard coming from the bard as the warrior's fingers forged on in their task, burrowing in and out of the young woman. This continued for another minute or so before Gabrielle felt the same warmth she'd felt not long before beginning to build within her core once again as she moaned Xena's name, urging the woman to continue what she was doing. The dark-haired woman smiled as she not only continued, but began rubbing Gabrielle's clit more vigorously while her penetrating fingers also moved a bit quicker. Xena maintained the new faster movements before only seconds later,  Gabrielle's eyes squeezed shut and her back arched slightly off the bed as she clutched the blanket under her tightly when she felt her depths begin to vibrate and she let out a euphoric yell as she was taken over the edge of ecstasy and came. Causing her body tensed up for several moments as the orgasmic waves rolled over her as Xena could feel Gabrielle's core spasm and constrict around her fingers. The dark-haired woman then moved her hand once more before ceasing in her thrusting and stilled her penetrating fingers inside the woman while continuing to run her thumb over the blonde's over stimulated bud for another couple of moments, coaxing Gabrielle's climax on a little longer, who shuddered at the continuous high and groaned at the touch.,until Xena saw the blonde beginning to settle and finally brought her last moving digit to a stop as she used her other hand to brush away the few blonde locks that had fallen over Gabrielle's face and smiled softly.

XENA 
(Soft tone) You alright?

Gabrielle nodded as her breathing slowly began to return to normal. The dark-haired woman brought her lips down to meet with the bard's and the two shared several tender kisses, before Xena pulled her mouth away to rest her forehead against the other woman's, as she gently removed her hand from inside the bard,  who made a small sigh as she felt the warrior slip out of her.

GABRIELLE 
I love you, Xena.

XENA 
And I love you.

The warrior smiled as she kissed Gabrielle once more before sitting up to grab a light blanket that sat at the foot of the bed and pulled it over her and Gabrielle's naked bodies as she laid back down next to the other woman. Gabrielle then moved closer to Xena and quickly found herself gathered in the woman's arms and smiled contently,  as she laid her head on Xena's chest. Listening to the woman's heartbeat as the two shared a bit of idle conversation before Gabrielle felt her eyelids soon becoming heavy and Xena placed a soft kiss on the blonde's head as she fell asleep in the warrior's arms. And as the room fell silent and both Xena and Gabrielle were soon sleeping soundly in one another's embrace, it was already clear that the two shared a deep and powerful bond. A bond that while neither would ever be able to express through words, the journeys that they would face together both near and far ahead would more than prove that the two had been destined to be together.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

The forest was quiet with the exception of the soft songs sung by the birds in the trees above a small camp Xena and Gabrielle had set up the night before. And where the pair now peacefully slept with the bard happily wrapped in Xena's arms. At least until Gabrielle rolled over, curling up with her blanket before smiling and giggling slightly as she mumbled the warrior's name in her sleep before settling back down, unaware of the footsteps that were drawing near.

SOLDIER 1
Well, would you look at what we have here?

A couple of men laughed quietly as a group of bandits stepped out from the trees as they happened upon the two women's camp.

SOLDIER 2
Sleeping like a baby.

SOLDIER 3
This is almost too easy.

The group drew their weapons as they approached where Xena and Gabrielle laid and one of the men stopped to stand over the dark-haired woman and smiled menacingly at the easy prey as he raised his sword above his head.

SOLDIER 3
Now, she's ours!

The man let out a yell as he drove his blade straight for Xena's chest, already imagining all the fame he would achieve from being the man who had finally been able to take out the famed warrior princess. However his fantasizing was very quickly cut short when before he knew what was happening, Xena's hands shot up and sandwiched the soldier's blade flat between her hands. The soldier didn't even have the opportunity to react before he felt Xena's foot connect with his face and he was knocked to the ground.

SOLDIER 1
(Angry tone) Get her!

The rest of soldiers that were still standing charged for Xena as she sprung to her feet and dodged out of the way of one the soldier's attacks and drove her elbow into another, knocking him back before she ducked under another sword, and rolled forward to where she grabbed the first things she spotted and stood as she turned to face the soldiers.

XENA
(Sarcasm) Anyone want some breakfast?

The dark-haired warrior spun the pot and pan she held in her hands as the soldiers came at her again, and she smacked one across the face with the frying pan and bashed another on the head with the pot, knocking both of them out cold before spotting another one of the men approaching the still sleeping bard and leapt into the air.

XENA
Rise and shine, Gabrielle.

The raven-haired woman landed not far from the sleeping woman with a foot stomping on a waterskin that sprayed a stream of water into the sleeping blonde's face who was then jarred awake as Xena continued fighting.

GABRIELLE
Gah! What the...

The bard wiped the water from her face as she quickly sat up before finally realizing that they were under attack. Grabbing her staff, Gabrielle hurried to stand and joined in the fight, sweeping at one of the soldiers legs to trip him, and smacking him in the face with her staff to keep him down.

XENA
Come on, is that the best you got?

The warrior taunted the soldiers as she smirked while avoiding another attack and countered by swinging her arm back and cracking the frying pan over the back of his head, taking another enemy out of the fight.

GABRIELLE
Xena!

Hearing the bard shout, the raven-haired woman looked to see Gabrielle had been cornered by several soldiers. Unable to reach her at that second, Xena hurled the frying pan, sending it ricocheting off a rock and a couple of trees before colliding with the side of the soldier's head and dropping him to the ground at Gabrielle's feet.

SOLDIER 1
Forget this. Anything we would get from this isn't worth it.

Seeing how easily Xena had beaten his comrades, as the last of the others fell, the soldier turned to make a hasty retreat but was grabbed from behind, preventing his escape.

XENA
Where do you think you're going?

Xena jabbed two of her fingers into the soldier's neck and crouched down as she let him sink to the ground.

XENA
Okay, listen up...

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) Xena, what did you do?!

XENA
(Defensive tone) What?

Hearing the unexpected tone in the young woman's voice, Xena looked in Gabrielle's direction to see an unhappy bard marching over to her.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) Look at this.

Gabrielle held up the pan that Xena had used to beat down some of the now defeated soldiers.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) This was our only frying pan. Why do you do things like this? We both know you have perfectly good weapons.

Xena shrugged.

XENA
I like to be creative in a fight. It gets my juices going.

Gabrielle scowled.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) Can we cook with your juices?

The raven-haired woman smirked.

XENA
(Joking tone) Extra flavoring.

Unamused by the warrior's suggestive comment, Gabrielle opened her mouth to give Xena a piece of her mind when she was interrupted by the soldier that the warrior had previously put her signature pinch on.

SOLDIER 1
(Gasping) Gah, d-do you guys think you can talk about this some other time?

Xena looked down at the struggling soldier she had forgotten about.

XENA
Oh, right, I've cut off the-

SOLDIER 1
(Gasping) The flow of blood to my brain that'll kill me in about a minute, I know all about it. Just tell me what you wanna know.

XENA
Why'd you attack us?

SOLDIER 1
(Gasping) We're planning to go after a village not far from here that's about to take in a big harvest.

XENA
What village?

SOLDIER 1
(Gasping) Piedmont. When our leader, Zagreas heard you were in the area, he sent us here to stop you before you could get in his way.

XENA
Guess we're going to Piedmont.

The dark-haired woman stood up as Gabrielle let out a disappointed sigh, before tossing the destroyed frying pan behind her.

XENA
All right, Gabrielle let's get going.

SOLDIER 1
(Gasping) Hey! Wait!

The soldier's voice getting her attention, the warrior looked down at the man who now had a trail of blood coming from his nose as he struggled against the grip of death threatening to claim him.

XENA
Oh, right. Sorry, I guess I haven't completely woken up yet.

With another swift jab to his neck, the soldier gasped in relief as the hold was released.

XENA
Thanks for the info.

Xena gave the man one more good shot to the head, and let him fall unconscious to the dirt before walking back to where her and Gabrielle's blankets were now scattered.

XENA
Let's get this stuff picked up, Gabrielle, so we can get to that village and check things out.

Gabrielle sighed as she heard her stomach growl and looked back to where she had tossed the busted frying pan.

GABRIELLE
(Muttering to herself) Sure, it's not like I can make breakfast now anyway

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

GABRIELLE
Okay, so which way are we supposed to go?

The blonde stood looking at the fork in the road she and Xena had come to a stop at, on their way to Piedmont.

XENA
Not sure. I've never been through here before.

Gabrielle gave the warrior woman a blank expression.

GABRIELLE
Xena, you know, you could've just had that guy tell you where this village is when you had your pinch on him.

XENA
Hey, no one stopped you from asking him yourself.

The bard scoffed sarcastically.

GABRIELLE
Oh please, like you would want me butting in on one of your pinch interrogations?

Xena shrugged in indifference.

XENA
Why not? You ask good questions.

GABRIELLE
Really?

Xena gave the woman a small smile as she shrugged once more.

XENA
Sure.

The young woman repaid Xena with a smile of her own.

GABRIELLE
Thank you.

Gabrielle moved to stand on her tiptoes and placed a small peck on the dark-haired woman's cheek before the two returned to trying to figure out which way they should go. It was then that they both heard someone yelling and Gabrielle looked to see a man coming toward them, waving his arms.

GABRIELLE
Look, here comes someone. Good, maybe he'll know where we're going.

Xena shot the bard a suspicious look.

XENA
And just what's that supposed to mean?

Gabrielle looked away coyly.

GABRIELLE
What? You're the one that said I should've asked that other guy for directions.

Despite knowing Gabrielle had actually meant for the comment to be a shot at her typical unwillingness to ask for directions, the warrior decided to ignore it as the man finally made his way over to them.

XENA
Hey there, you wouldn't happen to know where...

?
(Huffing) You're Xena, aren't you?

The man stopped right in front of the dark-haired warrior as he caught his breath.

XENA
Yeah, that's me.

The man smiled as he just stood there staring at Xena for a long moment before Xena raised a questioning eyebrow and broke the silence.

XENA
And?

Suddenly realizing that he had been just standing there in silent awe of the renowned warrior woman, the man quickly spoke.

?
Oh, ah, my-my village is in great danger. Can you help us?

XENA
So I'm guessing Zagreas after your village too?

HOWER
No. A giant wanted us to pay him for protection. But we told him that didn't have the money he wanted. He, he threatened to come today and flatten our village.

Hearing that news, Xena and Gabrielle looked at each other as they now found themselves needing to make a rather difficult situation for which village they were going to help, and which of the townspeople sadly be forced to leave the people to fend for themselves.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

GABRIELLE
(Thinking out loud) What to do? What to do?

Xena stood watching Gabrielle walk back and forth as the blonde woman thought about what they should do now that the two were faced with making what looked to be an impossible decision.

GABRIELLE
Two villages in dire straits. I hate it when that happens. I guess we'll have to methodically examine the needs of each village and then determine where we can do the most good.

Gabrielle moved over to Argo and began looking through her bag for an empty scroll.

GABRIELLE
I think we should make a list to see which village is in the most immediate danger. Which has the most to lose, giant versus warlord, and so on. It might not be easy, but I'm confident that in the end, we'll make the right call.

XENA
Heads. Giant it is.

Gabrielle looked over at Xena who was putting the coin she had just flipped away as the blonde closed her satchel back up.

GABRIELLE
Of course, we can always go with that too.

With the decision of where to go made, the dark-haired woman turned her attention toward the man who had come to them for help.

XENA
Alright, now where's your village?

HOWER
Oh. It's this way.

Hower turned slightly as he motioned down the road.

HOWER
I can take you there if you'd like.

XENA
Lead the way.

The man smiled as he turned fully to begin walking.

GABRIELLE
Hey! Hower! Does your village have a shop or something where I can get a frying pan?

Xena glanced over at the younger woman with an annoyed look on her face at the mention of the cooking utensil.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) You know, I really don't wanna hear about this all day.

GABRIELLE
Ok sure, I'll drop it.
(Sarcasm) I suppose raw meat can't kill you, right?

The warrior just rolled her eyes in reply before moving to follow Hower to his village with Gabrielle and playfully nudged her in minor annoyance, only to have the bard do the same and stumble back when the larger warrior didn't budge, getting a small chuckle out of her as a result.

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The small group walked along the road for a bit as Gabrielle and Xena followed Hower, making casual conversation to pass the time. All seemed to be going smoothly until without warning, Gabrielle swung her staff directly at Xena's face. Using her lightning-quick reflexes, the warrior effortlessly caught the staff as the two women stood there smirking at each other for a moment.

GABRIELLE
Ah ha! I almost had you that time.

XENA
(Teasing tone) You keep telling yourself that.

GABRIELLE
What are you talking about? I was this close.

The bard held up two fingers that were nearly touching as Xena then did the same.

XENA

(Teasing tone) You were this close because I let you get this close.

GABRIELLE
(Teasing tone) Sure, and you just keep telling yourself that, warrior princess.

Xena let go of the blonde woman's staff as she walked over to Hower who was standing nearby waiting for her and Gabrielle.

XENA
Hower, how big is this giant?

HOWER
Don't know. He-he's never been to our village before. He just sends threats through a messenger.

GABRIELLE
Then how do you know there's actually a giant coming for your village?

HOWER
We've heard about the village he's already destroyed in the next valley over.

XENA
So he's never been to your village, huh?

Gabrielle and Hower watched as the warrior became thoughtful for a moment.

XENA
I think we might be able to use that to our advantage and buy ourselves some time to come up with a plan.

Suddenly an audible growl rang out, causing Gabrielle and Hower to look in the direction of the source of the sound.

XENA
What? I haven't eaten yet today, okay?

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Really, Xena? Why not?

Gabrielle eyed Xena, who gave the blonde an unamused look in return before the warrior turned her attention to their temporary travel companion.

XENA
Hower, is there a creek or stream nearby?

HOWER
Ah, yeah, just over that ridge.

The man pointed to his right, where a series of rolling hills layed not far away.

XENA
Great. Let's take a detour and get something to eat.

GABRIELLE
Fish sounds good.
(Sarcasm) You know, a frying pan would sure come in handy right about now.

Xena glared at the younger woman.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Get off it, Gabrielle.

The bard just smirked as she, Xena, and Hower took a short detour to get some lunch.

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HOWER
Doesn't she need a fishing pole?

Hower glanced over at Gabrielle, who was seated next to him in the grass on the bank of a small creek as they watched Xena wading into the water after removing her boots.

GABRIELLE
Nah, that's not really her style. Like most other things, when it comes to fishing, Xena prefers taking a much more hands-on approach.

Keeping her eyes on the water, the warrior called back to the shore.

XENA
What do you like, Hower? Trout or perch?

HOWER
Trout.

GABRIELLE
I'll take salmon.

XENA
Wrong kind of creek, wrong season, wrong-

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) Fine, how about eel?

The dark-haired woman eyed the blonde suspiciously.

XENA
(Flat tone) Eel.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) What?

XENA
Fine. Eel it is.
(Thinking to herself unamused) She thinks she's sooo funny.

Xena's eyes then happened to look a little further up the bank of the creek where she spotted something.

XENA
Look over there, horse tracks. And lots of them too. My guess is they were likely made by Zagreas' army. From the looks of 'em, I don't think they were here that long ago. So it likely won't be long before they reach Piedmont.

GABRIELLE
What are we gonna do? I wish we could save that little village from being raided.

The dark-haired woman returned to looking into the water.

XENA
Well, it's a good thing I'm not gonna let that happen, Gabrielle.

GABRIELLE
Xena, how are you gonna stop it. You can't be in two places at once.

XENA
I don't have to be.

Suddenly Xena's hands shot down into the water as she grabbed something swimming by and pulled a large, squirming eel out of the creek.

XENA
Here you go, Gabrielle. One eel. Nice and fresh.

Before she could get the chance to react, the bard was slapped in the face with the long, slimy fish that had been tossed at her before it landed wiggling in her lap. Letting out a small scream, Gabrielle quickly threw the eel off of her and wiped the wetness from her face.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) That's real funny, Xena.

The warrior laughed quietly as she walked a little deeper into the water to find some bigger fish.

HOWER
Hey, Gabrielle, mind if I ask you something?

The bard finished drying her face and wiped her hands on her skirt.

GABRIELLE
Sure.

HOWER
Does Xena ever think about settling down or getting married?

The blonde woman smiled.

GABRIELLE
No, she likes what I do...

Before she could continue, Gabrielle was once again hit in the face with a flying fish that she threw off of her and shot Xena an annoyed look as she continued talking to Hower.

GABRIELLE
I think she likes what she's doing. No, I don't think getting married is for Xena. She seems to be enjoying things as they are now.

HOWER
Hmm, maybe she just hasn't met the right guy.

GABRIELLE
Actually s...

Yet again, Gabrielle had another wiggling fish thrown at her, and she let out an annoyed grumble before looking at Hower, who had clearly developed a crush on the warrior woman and decided to put an end to their conversation.

GABRIELLE
Hower, would you mind getting some wood so we can get a fire going? We're gonna have to cook these fish.

The bard paused as she remembered their lack of things to cook in.

GABRIELLE
...Somehow.

HOWER
Sure thing.

Gabrielle watched as the man stood up and walked off to gather some firewood and Xena came to sit next to Gabrielle, stretching out her long legs as she leaned back against the tree.

GABRIELLE
Another one's fallen for you.

Xena made a small, annoyed sigh as she looked at the younger woman.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) Again?

GABRIELLE
Yup.

The warrior watched unamused as Hower looked up from grabbing a small, broken branch from the ground and smiled at her.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) Why does this always happen?

Gabrielle chuckled.

GABRIELLE
Tall, powerful woman that walks around in leather. Some guys just love that sort of thing.

Xena smirked as she glanced toward the woman sitting beside her.

XENA
(Joking tone) Yeah, because they're definitely the only ones.

Gabrielle didn't say anything as she just shook her head slightly at Xena calling her out and the warrior spotted Hower sneaking another infatuated glance her way and lost her grin.

XENA
(Flat tone) I think maybe a wardrobe change is in order.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) You could switch to chain mail.

XENA
Yeah, but I think that'd just attract a kinkier group.

Xena smirked as Gabrielle chuckled at the comment.

GABRIELLE
You might have a point there.

XENA
(Joking tone) I suppose I could just stop bathing and wear a smelly wolf skin or something. That'd probably turn 'em off.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) Sure. But then you'd also be traveling alone.

The pair giggled again as Hower made his way over to them and held out some freshly picked flowers for Xena.

HOWER
Flowers for a flower.

The raven-haired woman sighed as she took the flowers, not wanting to hurt the man's feelings as she stood up.

XENA
Oh, gee, thanks, Hower.

Xena looked at Gabrielle who shrugged for what she should say before the warrior turned her attention back to Hower.

XENA
(Lying) I need to go check on Argo.

Standing up, Xena grabbed her boots and walked away muttering to herself as Hower smiled at Gabrielle.

HOWER
Did you see that? She took the flowers! She likes me.

No longer finding someone else pinning for the woman she loved amusing, Gabrielle rolled her eyes and stood up as she wished that Xena had just been honest with Hower about his chances with her before picking up the bucket of fish to go make lunch.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

It was a little after lunch had been cooked and eaten, and Xena had decided to send Hower on an errand to get him to take a break from him gawking at her for a bit. After everything had been cleaned up, Gabrielle sat thinking of a new part of a story that she had been working on and stood up to go write it down.

GABRIELLE
Ah, here it is.

The bard found and pulled out the scroll she wanted and began to unroll it when she realized that it had a large torn-off piece missing.

GABRIELLE
What in the...?

?
Whew, that's better.

Hearing the voice behind her, Gabrielle looked back to see Xena emerging from some bushes who had not long before left to go answer nature's call and Gabrielle suddenly realized what had happened to the parchment. She scowled angrily as she stormed over to the warrior, holding up the torn paper.

GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) You used my scrolls?!

Knowing that she was clearly in trouble with the bard, Xena quickly began trying to explain herself.

XENA
Now, take it easy. There were no good leaves in the bush.

She pointed to the ripped portion of the scroll.

XENA
I made sure I only used a piece that didn't have much writing on it.

GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) You know what Xena, sometimes you...

The young woman was about to give Xena a piece of her mind when the ground suddenly shook and the two looked off into the distance.

XENA
The giant's coming. Come on, I have an idea.

The dark-haired woman hurried off as Gabrielle looked at her torn scroll before clutching tightly in her frustrated fist as she stomped after Xena as they hurried to reach the village before the giant and it would be too late.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

It was quiet as Xena and Gabrielle came to the small village and the warrior stood taking in the scene.

XENA
(Thinking out loud) Interesting.

GABRIELLE
Huh?

The bard looked over to the woman beside her.

GABRIELLE
What's so interesting about this place? It looks just like every other village we've seen.

XENA
It is when no one's here.

Gabrielle turned her eyes back to look at the seemingly deserted village for a moment before looking back at the warrior.

GABRIELLE
Oh yeah. Wonder where everyone is. You think they fled to get somewhere safe?

XENA
Not sure, but we...
?

Ooh! Hold still! Quit wiggling you... rotten goat!

The voice catching the women's attention, Xena and Gabrielle looked over to see another woman walking through the village while trying to wrangle a fidgeting goat that was trying to escape her arms.

GABRIELLE
I guess someone is here after all. Let's ask her what's going on here.

The blonde began walking toward the woman as Xena followed.

GABRIELLE
Um, excuse me, hello?

The bard's voice getting her attention, the woman looked their way and gasped as she saw Gabrielle and Xena coming her way and hurried to meet them.

?
It's you. You're Xena, aren't you?

The woman flashed a large, excitable grin as she stopped right in front of the dark-haired warrior.

XENA
Yes.

The farm woman's smile grew as she got a better hold on the animal she was holding and looked on in amazement of the warrior actually coming to her village.

?
(Excited tone) No way! I can't believe I finally get to meet "the" Warrior Princess herself! I've heard about all your adventures. How you unchained death, and--and liberated Prometheus and nailed that Callisto witch.

XENA
Yes, well I was actually here becau....

Too in awe of Xena's presence, the woman didn't notice her trying to ask her something and continued gushing over meeting her.

?
You are the main thing, the real deal, you know?! The number one attraction...

The woman suddenly paused as she finally noticed Gabrielle.

?
Oh, and you must be uh, uh, Lariel.

GABRIELLE
It's Gabrielle, actually.

Having paid no attention to Gabrielle's correction, the woman continued.

?
Lariel, you have to tell me everything you know about what's it like to travel with the hottest warrior in the butt-kicking bizz? Like what's her favorite food? How does she do that awesome yelling thing? Does she sleep in the...

Annoyed with the woman's rambling questions, and having better things to do than have yet another person fawning over her, Xena quickly broke into the one-sided conversation

XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) Hey! Lady, we're on a mission here. Now are you gonna help us out or not?

The woman stopped her rambling and looked at Xena as she brought her excitement under control.

XENA
Alright then.

GABRIELLE
Can you tell us what happened here... uh?

?
Oh, sorry. The names Minya

XENA
Are you the only person here, Minya?

MINYA
Yeah. We stayed behind to help. All the other villagers ran to the hills. Well, except for me and my boyfriend. You've probably met him already.

Minya looked around for a moment.

MINYA
Where is he anyway?

XENA
Oh, you must mean Hower. He's doing me a favor. He's the one who told me about your problem.

MINYA
Well, I want you to know I'm ready to do anything you need. Just name it. So, what's your plan? How're you gonna whip this overgrown fleabag?

XENA
Not sure yet. Give me a bit, I'll come up with something

MINYA
Sure thing. Is there anything I can do to help you concentrate?

Xena looked over to Gabrielle as she thought for a moment.

XENA
Actually, there is something.

************************************************

Gabrielle let out a relaxed sigh as she sank into the large tub, submerging herself into the hot water.

GABRIELLE
I gotta say this bath was a great idea.

A small smile crossed Xena's face as the bard settled down across from her.

XENA
I had a feeling you'd like it.

Gabrielle watched for a moment as Xena grabbed the soap and began to wash herself as they continued the guessing game from earlier, until Minya came in with a fresh bucket of water and added it to the tub

MINYA
Is it too hot?

XENA
No, it's just right.

MINYA
I'll go get some more.

The farmer woman smiled as she headed back out of the little hut and Gabrielle watched Xena for another couple of moments as the dark-haired warrior continued to wash.

GABRIELLE
You want me to get your back?

XENA
Sure, thanks.

Xena handed Gabrielle the bar of soap and turned around, moving her long, wet hair to the side as the bard began rubbing the soap over the woman's shoulders and back. Xena smiled contently to herself as she felt the blonde woman's hands moving across her wet skin, just enjoying the simple, gentle touch.

GABRIELLE
So, what are we going to do about the giant?

XENA
Don't know. I'm still working on it.

GABRIELLE
Why not ask Minya to gather up all the mirrors in the village?

XENA
What?

Xena glanced over her shoulder, giving Gabrielle a questioning look.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, so we're ready if he's a helmet. You know, like what we did with Goliath when we used the sun to heat up his helmet, so he had to take it off, and we were able to target the soft spot between his eyes.

XENA
Yeah, but I've done that already.

GABRIELLE
So... It worked, didn't it?

The blonde continued to mold her hands over the warrior's back, pressing a little firmer into Xena's shoulders, where she knew the woman tended to carry a lot of tension in those muscles.

GABRIELLE
You know Xena, you don't have to be original every time you fight.

The dark-haired woman let out a small groan of pleasure as she felt Gabrielle's fingers working in just the right spot in the middle of her shoulders, loosening up the area.

XENA
I suppose not.

Gabrielle glided the soap over the warrior's skin for another moment before letting it drop into the water and continuing to caress the toned back with just her hands.

XENA
(Sighing) Gabrielle.

The younger woman brushed her lips against Xena's shoulder as both she and the warrior could feel a burning craving beginning to stir between their legs. Gabrielle let her hands slowly massage down Xena's back, before reaching the woman's waist beneath the water and guiding them around to her stomach. Xena breathed in deeply as she felt the other woman's hands slowly moving up her body. She felt Gabrielle's fingertips just reach and graze under her breasts when Minya came bursting back into the room with more hot water. Gabrielle quickly took her hands away from the warrior as they moved apart and pretended nothing was happening as the farm woman dumped the bucket into the tub. Leaving the dark-haired warrior a bit annoyed with her repeated intrusions but tried to hide it so as not to seem ungrateful for the woman's effort.

XENA
That's enough, Minya.

Minya just smiled and left once again as Gabrielle chuckled at the annoyed look on the warrior woman's face.

GABRIELLE
She's just in that, "I'll do anything for the Warrior princess" phase.

XENA
Yeah, well, I suppose her heart's in the right place.

Xena sighed as she leaned back against the side of the tub.

XENA
I just wish people like her didn't try so hard around me.

Gabrielle smiled.

GABRIELLE
I guess that's the burden you bare when people see you as a hero.

The raven-haired woman rolled her eyes.

XENA
Come on, Gabrielle, you know how I feel about the "H" word.

GABRIELLE
I know. I'm just telling you how a lot of people see you

The bard scooted toward Xena once again as the woman put an arm around her, pulling the bard closer, who happily leaned up against her.

GABRIELLE
You know, her boyfriend is in love with you.

XENA
(Defeated sigh) Don't remind me.

Gabrielle idly ran her fingertips along the warrior's arm.

GABRIELLE
Hmm. Guess I'll have to straighten that out, too.

XENA
Why you? Don't tell me you're jealous.

The blonde chuckled as she tilted her head back to look at the woman.

GABRIELLE
Oh no. I'm plenty confident I have nothing to worry about there. I'm just the one of us who's better with these sensitive things

Xena gave the younger woman a slightly disapproving look.

XENA
(Defensive tone) Hey, I'm plenty sensitive.

Gabrielle moved back to sit up straight next to the dark-haired warrior.

GABRIELLE
Why do you have to be so competitive about everything?

Xena smirked.

XENA
(Teasing tone) Oh, and you're not?

The bard moved closer toward the other woman defiantly.

GABRIELLE
I'm less competitive than you are.

XENA
(Mock threatening tone) Oh yeah?

The warrior leaned her face closer toward Gabrielle as the blonde woman did the same.

GABRIELLE
(Mock threatening tone) Yeah.

The two women could feel their passions beginning to build once again as Xena placed her hands on the edge of the tub and pressed her body against Gabrielle's. As she lowered her lips toward the younger woman's before hearing the door to the bath hut open again and quickly returned to just sitting next to the bard as Minya dumped yet another hot bucket of water into the tub, jarring both bathing women and waring on Xena's patience with the farmer.

XENA
That's enough, Minya! Thank you.

MINYA
Oh. Okay.

Minya put down the bucket and crouched down to lean on the side of the tub between Gabrielle and Xena.

MINYA
So, did you think up a plan yet?

XENA
Well, I'm...

Before the dark-haired woman could finish, Gabrielle decided to speak up.

GABRIELLE
We want you to collect all the mirrors in town.

The comment got a disapproving glance from the warrior as Minya caught the exchange.

MINYA
Is that it? Are mirrors part of the plan, Xena?

XENA
Sure.

The warrior turned her attention forward as she relaxed against the side of the tub.

XENA
For now.

MINYA
Okay, got it. I'll go gather them up right away.

The farm woman stood up and hurried out of the hut yet again as Xena returned her attention to Gabrielle who looked at the warrior with an annoyed expression on her face.

XENA
What?

GABRIELLE
You said, "For now."

XENA
So?

GABRIELLE
You're not gonna do that again, are you?

XENA
Do what?

GABRIELLE
Don't play dumb, Xena. You know what? We have a perfectly good plan ready and then you go change it at the last minute.

The warrior shrugged.

XENA
Hey, you gotta be flexible with these things. It comes with the job.

The bard rolled her eyes.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) So you say.

It was Xena's turn to roll her eyes in exasperation as she moved her hand around beneath the water, searching for the soap that had been discarded earlier, but couldn't seem to find it and looked at the woman next to her.

XENA
Are you sitting on the soap?

Having felt something under her, Gabrielle shifted slightly and pulled up the bar of soap to hand to Xena.

GABRIELLE
I was wondering what that was.

Giving her an unamused look, Xena slapped her hand against the water, splashing Gabrielle. The blonde returned the favor, sending some water back at Xena, who retaliated with a slightly bigger surge of water. The blonde then narrowed her eyes at the other woman and sent an even larger spray in her direction that seemed to finally be the last straw as a full-fledged splash fight broke out between them. Laughter rang out as water was sent spraying all over for several minutes as they moved around the tub until Gabrielle found her back pressed up against the side of the tub with Xena kneeling over her. The two breathed a little heavily as they sat facing one another for a moment. The warrior braced her hands on the edge of the tub as she looked down into Gabrielle's eyes, and then to her lips, which seemed to beckon her. Not saying a word Xena lowered her mouth to the young woman's, seizing her lips. A moan escaped Gabrielle's throat as she and the warrior shared a series of several more impassioned kisses before she parted her lips slightly and let the dark-haired woman's tongue pass into her mouth. The two went on like this for several moments before Xena pulled away to let them both catch their breath, as the warrior could feel her center ache beginning to ache with need.

XENA
(Seductive tone) Do you know what you do to me, Gabrielle?

Gabrielle's face turned flush as Xena kissed her a couple more times before resting her forehead against the younger woman's as she felt the bard's fingers begin to roam across her back. She shuddered under the younger woman's touch beneath the water, as Gabrielle skated her fingertips along Xena's sides before bringing them slowly inward to the warrior's stomach and tracing up to her breasts. The dark-haired woman let out a long, low, hungry groan when she felt Gabrielle move her hands to gently cup both of her mounds. The blonde then proceeded to lightly squeeze and manipulate Xena's chest, producing another shallow heave from the warrior woman in response. The bard continued manipulating Xena's bust for another moment before bringing a single breast up out of the water and lowering her lips to it, lightly licking the droplets from Xena's nipple before raising her eyes to meet the warrior's. The raven-haired woman shuttered at how incredibly erotic she found the hungry look in the pair of green eyes looking at her, before feeling Gabrielle's tongue flick against her again and then wrapping her lips around the nipple.

XENA
(Sighing) Mmm, Gabrielle.

The younger woman licked and sucked Xena's breast as the warrior's hand moved to rest on the golden head. Her own falling back slightly as she let herself become absorbed in the moment and the feeling of the bard's lips on her body. Gabrielle continued sweeping her lips and tongue over the nipple for another moment or so, before moving her mouth over to its match and giving that peak the same treatment. The warrior groaned quietly as she ran her fingers through Gabrielle's wet, golden locks, before pressing the young woman's head further against her breast. The bard moaned happily as she took more of Xena's flesh into her mouth. Feeling what the woman was doing having a direct impact on the growing warmth between her legs, Xena wasn't sure how much longer she could let Gabrielle continue to just tease her senses. This was made very clear when she felt Gabrielle lower a hand to cover her heated center and let her fingers lightly toy along the warrior's sex for a moment before bringing it back up to Xena's chest.

XENA
(Wanting tone) Damn it, Gabrielle. Are you trying to drive me insane?

The bard chuckled as she laid a kiss on the woman's boob.

GABRIELLE
Like you don't like doing the same to me.

Xena smirked as she thought briefly of how it was just a short time ago that Gabrielle had been so shy about doing this sort of thing. And while their sexual relationship was still relatively new, the blonde had quickly grown more emboldened and confident when it came to the subject. Not to say that Xena wasn't more than okay with this. In fact, the warrior found it quite stimulating. So much so, that right then, Gabrielle just lightly teasing her was not going to cut it. And if she didn't find release soon, she might very well go crazy.

XENA
(Half joking) Yeah, but I know when to get to it.

Gabrielle moved back slightly when Xena rose from the water to stand in the tub, the warm water cascading down her tall form as the bard's eyes drank in the ever-stunning sight. A lustful smile then crossed the bard's lips as she began running her fingertips along the warrior's leg.

GABRIELLE
(Seductive tone) Well, then allow me to do something about that.

Xena smiled as she moved to stand directly in front of the sitting woman, and Gabrielle brought her lips to kiss up the warrior's thigh before bringing her lips to rest just above the warrior's opening. Her breath hot on Xena's womanhood, only served to provide the dark-haired woman's burning desire further. The bard lingered in place for a moment, teasing Xena just a bit more, before letting her tongue sink into the warrior's folds. Feeling Gabrielle finally touch her right where she needed it, Xena shuddered as she let out an exhilarating heave. Slowly, the bard then began to drag her tongue from bottom to top of Xena's center, and the raven-haired woman somehow felt some relief from the need within her depths, but yet sensed it becoming more urgent at the same time.

XENA
(Moan) Yes. Oh, Gabrielle.

The bard's tongue skimmed up the standing warrior's sex before moving back down and then up again. She repeated this motion over and over for a few moments, before opening her mouth more to cover Xena's entrance and burrowing her tongue further into the woman.

XENA
(Gasping) Yes!

The warrior held firmer to Gabrielle's head as she felt the bard darting her tongue as far as it could reach. Feeling her carnal desire beginning to overtake her, Xena's hips began to move on their own. Holding Gabrielle tightly against her, slowly, Xena started to grind herself against the bard's face. She let out a sultry groan, as Gabrielle's oral activity soon began to become more ravenous. The blonde woman brought her arms up to wrap around Xena's waist as feasted on the warrior, her mouth and tongue searching to touch and taste every inch of Xena's warmth. Her hands soon after found their way to the warrior's ass, before she grabbed onto the firm muscles and pulled Xena further against her. As her tongue continued to move around the woman's femininity. Soon Xena started to breathe a little harder, feeling the beginnings of an orgasm starting to build.

XENA
(Gasping) Oh yeah. That's it, Gabrielle. Don't stop.

More than happy to comply with the dark-haired warrior's demand, Gabrielle started to stroke her tongue over Xena's womanhood more quickly. She licked, tasted, and stroked Xena's sex as she heard the woman's breathing becoming more erratic by the second, telling her that it wouldn't be much longer before she reached her apex. The warrior's breathing soon became more labored still, as Gabrielle's tongue began to push her further toward the edge of euphoria. She began to feel the warmth that had been building within her core threatening to overflow at any second. She grunted and groaned as she moved harder against the younger woman's mouth, feeling her orgasm lingering just over the horizon.

XENA
(Gasping) Gabrielle. Gabrielle.

The bard's tongue moved within Xena again as the warrior's hips surged forward one more time before a rapacious, piercing cry erupted from the woman's throat as her depths erupted and her sex began convulsing in orgasm. Xena held Gabrielle's head in place as her legs quivered and the exquisitely consuming waves crashed through her. The blonde let her tongue continue to lap at Xena's still-spamming core for another few moments as the dark-haired woman began to feel the aftershocks of her high beginning to fade. Xena let out a satisfied sigh as the blonde took her mouth away from her, leaving a couple of light caresses of her lips on the woman's mound before the warrior sank back down into the water.

XENA
(Sensual tone) You really are something else. You know that?

The dark-haired woman smiled as she pulled Gabrielle to sit between her legs and wrapped her arms around the woman, before pressing her lips to the younger woman's. Her tongue soon found entrance into the bard's mouth, and Xena moaned into her as she tasted herself on Gabrielle's lips. The bard reached her hand to the back of the dark head as the kiss deepened. Their lips each still seeking the other woman's, Xena's hands began to tease down the front of the other woman's body. She dragged her fingertips across Gabrielle's stomach for a moment before bringing them up to seize the bard's breasts. With her fingers still tangled in Xena's long, dark hair, Gabrielle moaned into the warrior's mouth as she felt Xena grope and knead her bust. Their heated kiss lingered for another long moment before their lips finally separated, and the dark-haired woman then moved her mouth slightly lower as she left a trail of loving, yet passionate kisses down the bard's neck.

GABRIELLE
(Wanting tone) Xena.

Xena's lips then reversed direction, and the warrior brought her mouth up to lightly nibble on Gabrielle's ear as one of her hands skated down the young woman's stomach to rest between her legs. The blonde took a sharp inhale in excitement as she felt Xena's fingers beginning to stroke up and down her center.

XENA
(Seductive tone) You like that, don't you?

GABRIELLE
(Moaning softly) Yes.

The bard let out a gratifying whine as she felt Xena's digits press more firmly against her. She arched slightly while the warrior's hand continued to rub up and down her sex. Xena's fingers continued to sweep back and forth, stroking the bard, as she listened to the woman's soft moans soon beginning to become louder.

GABRIELLE
(Moaning) Oh gods. Xena.

The dark-haired woman held onto the blonde a bit tighter as her hand moved faster. Gabrielle felt Xena's fingers running over her folds again and again, causing her depths to begin to react to the woman's touch. She reached out to hold onto the side of the tub as she felt the familiar tingling sensation building inside her. The bard arched as she leaned back against Xena behind her and the warrior, able to see the woman was nearing her release, brought her fingers up to rapidly begin rubbing Gabrielle's clit. The blonde moaned emphatically as the warrior whispered into her ear.

XENA
(Seductive Whisper) Come on, Gabrielle. That's it. Come for me.

Hearing those sultry words in her ear pushed the bard ever closer to her finish. Her body felt as if it was on fire as the vibrations within her femininity became increasingly more powerful. Xena's fingers kept moving over the younger woman's little nub in a quick, yet steady rhythm as she whispered for Gabrielle to come one more time. This finally caused the younger woman to be driven over the edge and she felt her nether region pulsate as she came. Gabrielle let out an enraptured cry as she felt the heavenly warmth filling her depths as they twitched and convulsed in orgasm against the warrior's fingers. The dark-haired woman continued to stroke over Gabrielle's center for another few moments as the bard rocked against her and she let the woman ride out the rest of her release.

GABRIELLE
(Content Whisper) Gods, Xena.

The warrior took her hand away from the other woman's sensitive center and put both of her arms around her as Gabrielle relaxed against her. She pressed her lips against the blonde's wet hair as the two sat there for a bit, just enjoying the stillness of the moment, knowing that they'd very soon have to return to dealing with the outside world's problems.

XENA
We should probably go check on how things are going out there.

Gabrielle sighed as they looked up at the warrior, now fully relaxed after the pair had been sitting there for a few more minutes. The lingering sensations of their lovemaking, now nothing but a wonderful memory.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, you're probably right. We do still have to deal with that giant after all. Even if I do wish we could stay just like this for a while longer.

XENA
You and me both.

Xena smiled as she lifted Gabrielle's face toward her and softly kissed the bard's lips.

XENA
But unfortunately, that's a luxury we simply don't have.

The blonde woman moved as Xena stood and stepped out of the tub before turning back to offer her hand to Gabrielle.

XENA
Now come on, we have a giant to deal with and a village to save.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

MINYA
(Talking to herself) Almost. Come on, last one.

Minya grunted as she pulled a large mirror over to where a series of other mirrors stood, before getting it where she wanted and standing up straight as she took a breather and spotted Hower coming her way.

MINYA
Oh, Hower.

The farmer woman walked up to Hower.

MINYA
Xena's here. Isn't she amazing? She's so strong, so confident, so brave, so...

HOWER
Beautiful.

MINYA
Wha...?

Minya looked in the direction that Hower's attention had suddenly been drawn, to see Xena walking out of the bath hut as the warrior rang out her wet hair, seemingly in slow motion to the man as Minya scoffed.

MINYA
Well, she's all right, if you like that type.

Ignoring the woman's comment, Hower eagerly hurried over to the warrior woman.

HOWER
Xena, I delivered your message to Zagreas.

XENA
Good. And let me guess, he wanted to know what I was up to and decided to hold off his attack on Piedmont until he could figure it out. So he didn't have any interest in my offer.

The farmer looked at Xena in surprise.

HOWER
Uh, yeah. How did you know that?

XENA
Zagreas and I go back a ways. And honestly the man's a coward who wouldn't even trust his own mother.

Xena paused for a moment as more of her plan began to take shape in her head, before giving Hower new instructions.

XENA
Hower, go back to him and tell him that I don't mind if he raids Piedmont, but he'd better not come anywhere close to Laurel. Got it?

HOWER
All right, anything you want, Xena.

Hower smiled bashfully as he began turning to leave once more.

HOWER
Well, I'm going now, Xena.

MINYA
Bye, Hower.

Minya smiled at the man who just eyed her uninterested as he continued on his way, leaving Minya's smile to quickly fade. Seeing the interaction, the warrior then took it upon herself to try and fix the issue that her presence had unintentionally created.

XENA
Hey! Hower.

Hearing the woman call him, The man looked back toward Xena.

XENA
Say goodbye to Minya.

Hower looked from the taller dark-haired woman to the other and sighed as he nodded toward Minya and bid her a reluctant goodbye before much to Minya's surprise, ran off

MINYA
He's running? He doesn't run for anything except when I call him for food.

Minya then turned her eyes toward Xena and gave her an unseen glare as Gabrielle exited the bath hut and came over to meet the other two women.

GABRIELLE
Where's he going?

XENA
Another errand.

Tired of the man's infatuation with her along with the dagger's being stared at her from Minya, the raven-haired woman turned to talk quietly to the bard..

XENA
When Hower gets back, one of us has got to talk to him.

Rolling her eyes at the situation, Xena headed off to escape the farm woman's silent fury, as Gabrielle tried to think of what she should say to Minya before noticing something sitting on a barrel behind her.

GABRIELLE
Minya, that wouldn't happen to be your frying pan, would it?

The farmer woman looked over her shoulder for a moment before bringing her attention back to the bard.

MINYA
Yeah, why?

Gabrielle smiled as she got an idea of her own.

GABRIELLE
Can I interest you in a trade?

Minya looked at the young woman with interest.

MINYA
Depends. What did you have in mind?

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

It was a little later as Xena stepped back slightly, avoiding the swing of Gabrielle's staff as the warrior helped Gabrielle get a bit of fighting practice in.

XENA
(Teasing tone) Come on Gabrielle, you know you're gonna have to do better than that.

The bard smirked as she began to swing at Xena again, then abruptly stopped and changed the direction of her attack. But again missed her target as Xena easily ducked out of the way. While crouched, the warrior suddenly heard a noise that seemed to catch her attention as she looked away from Gabrielle, who saw this as an opportunity and immediately continued her offense by bringing the bottom of her staff up but was stopped by the warrior catching the weapon without even having to look.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Oh, come on.

XENA
What was that?

Having a suspcion of what the sound she just heard was, Xena eyed the younger woman for a moment before walking away to investigate.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Xena made her way around a hut to see Minya standing there rubbing her leg and couldn't help but notice something that the woman was holding.

MINYA
Ow!

XENA
Hey!

The dark-haired warrior marched over to Minya and snatched her whip from the farmer woman's hand.

XENA
What are you doing with my whip? You're gonna hurt yourself with that.

Minya scoffed.

MINYA
It's not your whip, anymore. I traded blondie there my best frying pan for it.

Not happy about what she had just heard, Xena looked over to Gabrielle with an annoyed expression on her face, as the bard immediately tried to explain.

GABRIELLE
Look Xena, we have to cook our food with something. And I really don't enjoy having to worry about things not being done before I eat it.

Xena narrowed her eyes in suspicion at the other woman.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) This isn't just about cooking, is it? I messed with your scroll, so you decide to trade my whip for a frying pan?

Turning her eyes away after being caught red-handed in her true motivation, Gabrielle tried her best to play innocent.

GABRIELLE
(Lying) I don't know what you're talking about.

XENA
(Irritated/ Sarcastic tone) I'm sure you don't.

Giving the woman a low, annoyed growl, Xena turned her focus to Minya and held out her hand.

XENA
Yeah well I'll be taking that back now.

MINYA
No, it belongs to me.

Minya held the whip further away from the warrior.

XENA
(Flat tone) You can't be serious.

MINYA
(Slightly Irritated tone) Hey! I traded for this fair and square. Or do you not understand the concept?

Xena gave Minya a slightly confused look as the farm woman continued.

MINYA
(Slightly Irritated tone) The whip is mine. The frying pan's yours.
(Irritated tone) Hower is mine!

Minya looked at Gabrielle for a moment.

MINYA
She's yours.

The bard leaned in to speak quickly to Xena.

GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Why do I feel like I'm supposed to be insulted?

Not wanting to deal with the nonsense anymore, Xena sighed to herself as she turned to leave.

XENA
I'm going to see where that giant is. Get the mirrors over to the northern most part of the village.

Not saying another thing, Xena walked over to where Argo was waiting, and after getting into the saddle rode off. But not before she heard Minya shout after her as she left.

MINYA
You're not the only tough broad around here, you know?! You can run, but you can't hide!
(Muttering to herself) Warrior Princess, my ass.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Xena rode outside of the village for a bit until she met up with Hower, who hurried over to meet her as she dismounted her mare.

HOWER
Oh Xena, glad you're here. Zagreas...

XENA
Is heading this way.

Hower was about to ask how Xena knew what he was going to tell her, when the warrior, also anticipating that question as well, continued.

XENA
Scum always floats to the surface. He wants to see what I'm doing in Laurel. If I'm here, he figures there must be some profit in it.

HOWER
Okay. But why do you want him to come this way? Won't that make things worse when we have both the giant and Zagreas' army to deal with?

Xena smirked.

XENA
Not if we do things right.

Hower watched as Xena walked past him and crouched down to investigate something on the ground.

HOWER
What are you doing?

The man moved to stand beside Xena to see what the woman was looking at.

HOWER
Woah. And I thought my feet were big.

Hower watched for a moment as Xena measured a very large footprint that sat amongst many others which had very clearly been left behind by a giant.

XENA
Yup, this has gotta be Gareth all right.

HOWER
Who's Gareth?

The dark-haired woman stood and brushed off her hands as she looked out to the distance and a small smirk crossed her lips.

XENA
Only the biggest and meanest giant who ever walked the Earth.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

MINYA
And thanks to Xena, the Bacchae were turned into the beautiful women they were before.

GABRIELLE
So what do you think?

Minya lowered the scroll she had been reading that Gabrielle had written about one of her and Xena's many adventures and looked at the bard.

MINYA
It's fine. Do you have one where Xena tries to steal somebody's boyfriend, or do you usually leave that part out?

The bard sighed.

GABRIELLE
Minya, Xena would never take anyone's boyfriend. She has integrity, and would never do something like that. She'll make sure Hower gets the message that he doesn't have a shot with her. Trust me.

MINYA
You really think so?

Gabrielle smiled.

GABRIELLE
I know so.

HOWER
Minya.

Hearing Hower's voice, both women looked over to see Hower approaching them after he and Xena had just returned to the village.

MINYA
Hower, you're back.

The man stopped in front of them as he looked at Minya.

HOWER
Minya, I feel like I owe it to you to be completely honest with you.

Hower took a deep breath before continuing.

HOWER
I'm sorry Minya, but I'm in love with Xena.

Hearing what Hower had just said, Minya glared over at Gabrielle.

MINYA
(Sarcasm) Oh yeah, she really sent him a message all right.

Gabrielle was about to try and figure out some way to defend Xena when the warrior walked up to them.

XENA
Alright, it turns out that our giant problem might be a bit more serious than we initially thought.

GABRIELLE
Why? What happened?

XENA
The giant's name is Gareth. And believe me, he's trouble. Using mirrors won't work. We don't have much time to come up with a way to stop him.

MINYA
But Gareth is one of the biggest, meanest giants ever to walk the Earth. Xena's old buddy, Goliath, wanted to get revenge on Gareth for killing his family. But then, Xena and Goliath ended up on opposite sides during the Israelite-Philistine feud. And then Goliath got wasted.

Both Xena and Hower stared at Minya with confused yet surprised expressions on their faces at the woman's unexpected knowledge of the subject, as Minya shrugged.

MINYA
What? I read it in one of her scrolls.

Minya motioned toward Gabrielle who then took the opportunity to speak up.

GABRIELLE
Does Gareth wear a helmet?

XENA
Yeah, but it has a heavy nose guard.

GABRIELLE
Well, I know you don't like using the same strategy twice, Xena but I really think if we just did the mirror thing again...

XENA
It won't work.

The raven-haired warrior pointed over the hills in the distance.

XENA
There are heavy rain clouds moving in. We won't have any sunlight we could use to reflect onto the helmet.

GABRIELLE
Then what're we gonna do?

Xena looked out toward the approaching storm clouds as a roll of thunder rumbled in the distance as a new plan came together in her head.

XENA
We're gonna harness the power of a god.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

XENA
There, that should do it.

Gabrielle cocked her head to the side as she looked at the odd contraption that the warrior had put together using sticks, string and a large piece of material that had been donated by Minya.

GABRIELLE
What is it?

XENA
I don't have a name for it. But if I can get it to fly, I think this can be just what we need to nail Gareth.

GABRIELLE
Get it to fly?

The warrior finished her creation by attracting a buckle to a string that hung from the fabric.

XENA
Yup. We're gonna use the wind to carry it.

Xena then held her invention pointed toward the sky.

XENA
And. Here. We. Go!

Xena then threw her arm forward, releasing the contraption from her hand as it flew forward before nose diving just a second later and landing at her feet.

XENA
(Flat tone) Or at least that's the plan, anyway.

The warrior made multiple more attempts at getting her creation to stay airborne as Gabrielle, Minya and Hower all looked on, and Xena's patience with repeated failures began to wear on the warrior's nerves.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Damn it. Stay up there.

Nearby, Minya looked at Hower who was standing beside her.

MINYA
Looks like your precious warrior princess has got a screw loose.

After watching another handful of failures, Gabrielle rose from the tree stump she'd been sitting on as Xena tried unsuccessfully to get the contraption she made into the air.

GABRIELLE
Look, Xena, I don't wanna doubt you after all we've been through, but I just don’t think this is gonna work.

Xena scowled as she picked up her invitation from the ground and straightened it out for another attempt.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Well if you have a better idea, I'd like to hear it.

GABRIELLE
Hey, there's no need to get all defensive. I just don't share your vision for whatever you're trying to do here.

The warrior looked at the other woman.

XENA
So? There were plenty of other times when you didn't.

Xena made air quotes with her fingers as she continued.

XENA
Quote, "share my vision".

The bard gave an unamused look at the comment.

GABRIELLE
Fair. And I'll admit that you ended up being right those other times. But, just out of pure logic you gotta be wrong about this sort of thing at some point. So given the stakes here, I just think it might be better for everyone if we moved on to trying a different strategy.

XENA
(Talking to herself) Maybe if I ran with it.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) And you're not even listening to a word I'm saying. Are you?

XENA
(Joking) Uh huh. Yeah sure thing Lariel.

The sarcastic comment got an annoyed eye roll from the blonde as Xena threw her invitation skyward yet again and this time had it glide for a bit as the warrior gave Gabrielle a satisfied "I told you so" smirk. Though that was only until the contraption abruptly took another nose dive and landed right on the bard, knocking her to the ground.

GABRIELLE
(Annoyed tone) Xena!

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

XENA
And there we go. Ste-e-a-ady, Ste-e-a-ady.,

Xena gently tugged on the string to the flying fabric, that after an ungodly amount of attempts, she had finally to keep in the air.

GABRIELLE
I can't believe it.

Gabrielle watched excitedly at the wonder before her, before looking over to the other woman.

GABRIELLE
(Lying/) You know I never actually doubted you for a second, right?

XENA
(Teasing tone) Oh sure.

GABRIELLE
We did it! We did it! We did it! Boy is Gareth in for it once he gets here. He might be a big, mean giant but we have a .piece of flying parchment with a belt-buckle attached to it.

Suddenly realizing the ridiculousness of what she had just said, the bard stopped her celebration and looked at Xena.

GABRIELLE
Xena, what is this even supposed to do exactly?

XENA
Bring the power of Zeus to Earth.

Xena gave Gabrielle the string she was holding to control the flying contraption.

XENA
Here, you take over. Keep it flying as long as you can. I think it's about time I tried talking some sense into Hower.

With that, Xena walked away, leaving Gabrielle to her own devices as a big gust of wind blew in and the bard struggled to keep control over the flying parchment.

GABRIELLE
Hey, wait a minute. Xena.

Another strong wind blew that ripped the string from the young woman's grasp and she scrambled to try and catch it.

GABRIELLE
No, no, no.

Gabrielle jumped up to grab the string before the parchment could get away but missed and it left her standing there, able to do nothing more than watch as Xena's invitation glided away.

GABRIELLE
(Annoyed tone) Oh come on!

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

After looking around for Hower for a bit, Xena spotted the man brushing Argo and walked over to him.

XENA
Hower, you and I need to have a little talk.

The farmer turned to look at the warrior and smiled.

HOWER
Oh, Xena. I hope you don't mind. I thought I'd brush Argo for you. I think she likes me.

Xena sighed at the overly doting look Hower was giving her and knew she needed to put a stop to the man's infatuation with her.

XENA
Listen Hower, Minya's a good woman. She loves you. You should consider yourself lucky to have a woman like her.

Hower shrugged indifferently at the mention of his girlfriend, before smiling at the warrior.

HOWER
Sure, but she could never come close to comparing to you, Xena.

Tired of the man's delusion of getting with her, Xena decided that a more stern approach to the situation was necessary.

XENA
(Stern tone) Now you listen up little man, there's a snowball's chance in Tartarus of you ever getting with me. So you had better start living in reality instead of whatever ridiculous fantasies you've been cooking up in that head of yours. You got that?

Hower just smiled at the warrior as he shrugged and went back to brushing Argo.

HOWER
You can deny your true feelings all you like, Xena. But I can be patient. I know you'll come around.

Unable to think of anything else she could say or do short of physically trying to knock some sense into the man, Xena made an exasperated sigh as she turned around and left the barn to find Gabrielle. Hoping that the bard's more gentle approach might do better at getting through to Hower.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

XENA
Gabrielle!

Xena stepped outside the barn as she looked for the bard for a moment, until she heard a noise from above her and casually stepped to the side as Gabrielle came flying down from the roof in an attempt to catch Xena off guard. But instead she landed face down in the dirt, as Xena looked down at the blonde.

XENA
Nice try.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, yeah. Laugh it up, warrior princess. You know, I would have had you if I hadn't done the war cry.

XENA
(Sarcasm) Yeah, sure you would.

The bard then proceeded to grab onto the warrior as she used Xena's tall form to make her way back to a standing position, before finally grabbing onto Xena's breastplate as she steadied herself.

XENA
(Joking) You know, Gabrielle, if you wanted to get a feel all you gotta do is say so.

Having not even realized where her hand was until Xena's comment, Gabrielle just rolled her eyes as she took her hand away.

GABRIELLE
I'll go talk to Hower.

The bard began walking toward the barn entrance as she called back to Xena.

GABRIELLE
And if you're looking for it, your flying parchment's stuck in a tree.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Gabrielle let out a defeated sigh as she exited the barn after talking to Hower, and somehow having even less success with getting the man to see reason than Xena did.

MINYA
Okay. I'll give it a try. Thanks Xena.

Gabrielle made her way over to where Xena stood as Minya hurried off.

GABRIELLE
What was that about?

XENA
Oh, just giving a little advice about something. Though I'm not sure how well it'll work since she doesn't particularly trust me. Any luck with Hower?

GABRIELLE
Not really.

The bard looked at Xena and smirked.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) You could try kicking him around a bit.

XENA
Oh trust me I've considered it.
(Half joking) The thing is, I'm afraid he might enjoy it.

GABRIELLE
Good point.

Xena sighed as she shifted the conversation to a more serious topic.

XENA
You know, if we take out Gareth, I'll finally be able to repay Goliath.
(Sad tone) I wish things with him could've gone differently. I always regretted that he had to die.

GABRIELLE
I know. But at least now you can make it so he and his family can rest easy now.

Gabrielle put her arm around Xena's waist to comfort the warrior.

GABRIELLE
You know the dead can hear our thoughts. I'm sure that Goliath knows you care about him.

A soft smile found its way to Xena's face as she looked at Gabrielle.

XENA
Yeah. I'm sure you're right.

Suddenly the ground shook beneath their feet and Hower came running over to the pair in a semi-panic.

HOWER
What was that?!

Xena smirked.

XENA
Sounds to me like Zagreas just met a certain giant.

HOWER
You're amazing! So that was your plan from the start. Luring Zagreas and his army straight into Gareth's path. Do all your plans work this well?

The ground shook again as Xena looked out into the distance.

XENA
I'm hoping this one does. Because once Goliath is done with Zagreas and his men, he's coming for us next.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Xena sat on a tree stump idly shining her chakram as Gabrielle spun her staff around, practicing some new offensive techniques she had been learning. After a little bit, the bard planted the end of her staff on the ground beside her as she took a breather and looked over at Xena.

GABRIELLE
What's taking him so long?

Not looking up from her task, Xena gave an idle reply.

XENA
Cut him some slack. Gareth just got done stomping out a whole army. He probably needs a break.

The blonde looked around as she noticed that something was missing.

GABRIELLE
Hey, where'd Minya go?

XENA
Probably taking a bit of friendly advice from one woman to another.

?
(Angry tone) Xena!

Hearing her name, the warrior smirked as she stood up and watched as a very disheveled man stood several feet away, glaring intensely at her.

XENA
(Sarcasm) Hey there, Zagreas. Bad day?

The warlord sneered as he drew his sword and pointed it at Xena.

ZAGREAS
(Angry tone) You set me up, Xena! That damned giant destroyed my entire army! It's not fair! I'm just a simple warlord trying to make a living! You know, raiding and looting. The same thing that you used to do, Xena!
(Mocking tone) But no, you had to go and change, and then ruin everything for the rest of us.

Zagreas stepped toward Xena.

ZAGREAS
(Angry tone) You've made fools of all of us. But now I'm here to end it, Xena. And I'm gonna make sure you don't walk away from this alive.,

Filled with rage, the warlord yelled as he prepared to charge Xena, but was stopped when he heard another person's voice.

?
Hey, tough guy! Are you here to fight, or just talk?

Zagreas turned to see who was speaking and saw Minya standing there in a new outfit that looked oddly similar to Xena's.

ZAGREAS
(Angry tone) Now there are two of you?!

The warlord yelled as he reached his breaking point and with his sword ready, charged at Minya.

ZAGREAS
(Angry tone) I'll kill you!

Gabrielle was just about to chase after the warlord to stop him before he could hurt Minya, when she saw the farmer woman nail Zagreas right in the side of his face, spinning the man around before he dropped face down into the dirt unconscious. Meanwhile, having witnessed the whole encounter, Hower ran up to Minya as he looked at the woman in amazement.

HOWER
Whoa! Minya! That was amazing! I had no idea you could... I mean you...

Seeing that Hower was clearly at a loss for words, Minya smirked as she stood with a hand on her hip and looked away as she acted disinterested like Xena told her.

MINYA
Look good in leather?

Minya flipped her hair nonchalantly before walking away as Hower smiled, watching the woman for a moment before quickly following after her.

HOWER
Hey, Minya, wait up.

Gabrielle smiled as she and Xena watched the two villagers run off.

GABRIELLE
Well, I guess that takes care of that problem.

The bard then looked at the unconscious warlord that now laid sprawled out on the ground.

GABRIELLE
Along with our warlord issues too.

The ground shook again as the tremors got stronger

XENA
It's Gareth, he's headed toward the giants' burial ground first.

The warrior looked at the sky.

XENA
I've gotta go out to meet him. If this doesn't work, or if the bad weather doesn't hold, I want you to get Hower and Minya to safety. Don't let them die for a lost cause.

Xena began to walk away but stopped when she felt the bard grab her wrist.

GABRIELLE
Xena, wait.

The dark-haired warrior turned to look at Gabrielle.

GABRIELLE
I'm sorry I traded your whip for a frying pan.

Xena smiled.

XENA
Don't worry about it. I suppose I shouldn't have used your scrolls.

GABRIELLE
I love you, Xena. Please stay safe.

XENA
I love you too.

Using her free hand, the warrior lifted Gabrielle's chin upward as she placed a soft, loving kiss on the young woman's lips.

XENA
Don't worry. I'll see you soon.

Smiling, Xena turned away as the bard released the warrior from her grasp and watched her leave, before moving to find Minya and Hower.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The ground trembled as the giant stomped his way across the field, stopping by a large tree when he heard a voice.

?
Hello Gareth.

Gareth turned his head to find Xena standing in the tree and scowled at the sight of the woman.

GARETH
(Angry tone) Xena.

The giant swung his fist at the woman, but missed when she quickly dropped from the tree and landed at his feet.

GARETH
(Angry tone) I'm gonna squash you like a bug!

Gareth raised his foot to stomp on the warrior, and Xena dove and rolled out of the way. The giant then brought his massive sword down to strike the woman, but again she dodged. And as his arm was still lowered, Xena quickly jumped onto the giant and ran up his massive limb, jumping forward when Gareth tried to grab her with his other hand. Once she reached his shoulder, Gareth turned his head to look at the woman and was taking off guard when Xena launched her fist into his eye. The giant let out a painful and angry yell as he turned his head away and threw his arm to the side as he tried to shake Xena off of him. Instead the woman lept and dropped down behind him. On her way down, she grabbed onto a string that she had wrapped around the tree branch and caught herself on the bottom of Gareth's shirt before attaching the string to the giant's belt and then dropping the rest of the way to the ground.

XENA
Ha! You missed, Gareth.

Gareth looked down as he again tried to crush Xena under his boot. The dark-haired woman easily dodged yet again.

GARETH
(Angry tone) You can't dodge me forever, Xena.

Xena smirked confidently up at the giant.

XENA
We'll just see about that.

The warrior then took off as she called back to Gareth, taunting him as she ran.

XENA
(Mocking tone) Come on, Gareth, catch me if you can.

The giant let out an enraged roar as he chased after Xena. All while threatening the woman with all the different ways he was gonna make her suffer before finally killing her.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Dark clouds gathered overhead as Xena ran with the giant, Gareth hot on her trail.

GARETH
(Angry tone) Come back here, Xena. You can't get away from me.

Gareth stopped as he lost sight of the warrior and began scanning the new area for her, while standing amongst the bones scattered amongst the giant's graveyard.

GARETH
(Angry tone) Now where are you hiding?

XENA
You know, you should really have more respect for the dead. Especially since you're about to be joining them soon.

The giant looked behind himself to see Xena standing on a large rock with her arms folded confidently across her chest as she looked up at him.

GARETH
(Angry tone) Xena!

Seeing only red, Gareth picked up one of the long dead giant's leg bones and raised his arm to throw it at the woman. Then suddenly, before he could throw it a bright light suddenly lit up the sky as lightning flashed and was drawn to the kite that Xena had made and attached to the giant's belt after she jumped off of his shoulder. Upon connecting with the flying parchment, the lightning instantly traveled down the string to strike Gareth, who screamed in agony as he felt the pain of pure electricity surge through his body and everything in him short circuited. Then a moment later, after the lightning stopped, Gareth crashed to the ground and laid there completely motionless with his eyes open, but unseeing as Xena stepped closer to the now slain giant.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

MINYA
Look, here she comes.

Hearing Minya call out, Gabrielle looked up from the patch of dirt she was absent-mindedly poking at with a stick and smiled as she quickly stood from the stool she'd been sitting on, as she saw someone entering the village.

GABRIELLE
Xena.

The bard hurried over to meet the other woman.

GABRIELLE
I'm guessing you managed to stop Gareth?

Xena smiled as she looked over to Minya and Hower.

XENA
Everything's taken care of.

The two smiled at the news that their village was now safe as they made their way over to the warrior to thank her and Gabrielle for all their help.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The moon hung in the night sky as Xena and Gabrielle laid side by side on a blanket after leaving Minya, Hower and their village earlier in the evening. The warrior and the bard each took turns pointing out the different things they saw in the patterns of the stars hanging high above them.

XENA
And that bunch right there looks like a big dipper.

GABRIELLE
You mean like one of those cups you use to get water from a bucket?

Gabrielle squinted her eyes as she tried to spot what the warrior was seeing.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, I don't see it. Looks more like a bear to me.

Xena looked over at the younger woman.

XENA
A bear?

GABRIELLE
Yeah, look.

The bard pointed toward the sky and moved her hand to trace the shape of what she saw in the stars as Xena yawned.

XENA
(Lying) Oh yeah. There it is.

Gabrielle lowered her hand as she looked over at the dark-haired woman and smirked.

GABRIELLE
Liar.

Xena chuckled as she put her hands behind her head and closed her eyes.

XENA
(Joking tone) Nothing gets past you, does it?

The two laid there peacefully for a bit until Gabrielle peeked a green eye open and stealthily reached her arm out to the side as Xena began to drift off to sleep. Then when all seemed calm, Xena suddenly felt a sharp sting on her face as Gabrielle grabbed her staff and swung it at the other woman, hitting Xena right in the nose.

GABRIELLE
Oh, no.

Having not expected to actually catch the warrior off guard, Gabrielle instantly felt terrible for hitting Xena with her staff. And turned to face the woman who was now holding her nose.

GABRIELLE
Xena, I'm so sorry. I swear I thought you would stop it. Are you okay?

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) I'm fine.

Xena rolled to her side so her back was facing the bard.

GABRIELLE
I really didn't think I'd actually hit you. I mean you can catch arrows right out of the air. And you always seem to have a sixth sense for anything coming your way.

XENA
It's all right, Gabrielle. I know you didn't mean it.

Xena looked over her shoulder.

XENA
It's been a long day and I'm tired, so let's just go to sleep, okay?

The bard smiled, relieved that Xena wasn't upset.

GABRIELLE
Okay.

The dark-haired woman laid her head back down and closed her eyes once again as Gabrielle shifted to lean over the warrior.

GABRIELLE
Goodnight, Xena.

The bard placed a quick kiss on Xena's cheek as Xena jokingly shooed her away. Then Gabrielle laid down completely and got comfortable for a moment before the dark-haired woman rolled over and put her arm over the blonde, who snuggled closer to the woman as the two settled down to go to sleep. It was silent for a few moments until Gabrielle spoke when she had a thought creep into her mind.

GABRIELLE
You just let me hit you, didn't you?

Xena sighed as she didn't bother opening her eyes to respond.

XENA
No. You got me fair and square.

Hearing what she thought was way too casual of a tone, Gabrielle raised her head to look at the warrior.

GABRIELLE
You did, you let me hit you, because you feel sorry for me.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) Go to sleep, Gabrielle.

The bard laid her head back down and looked at the semi-asleep woman and smiled as she closed her eyes, and listened to Xena's steady breathing for a few moments until she was certain Xena was nearly asleep.

GABRIELLE
I know you let me hit you.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

It was after dark when Xena and Gabrielle made their way into a town after a long few weeks on the road after leaving Minya and Hower. Along with their giant and warlord problems behind.

GABRIELLE
Boy, will I be glad to take a break from riding for a while.

Gabrielle shifted slightly in Argo's saddle behind Xena as she tried to get more comfortable.

GABRIELLE
I think my butt’s gonna be sore tomorrow.

Xena snickered at the comment and got a playful slap on her arm for it from the bard, who knew exactly where the warrior's mind went.

GABRIELLE
From riding Argo all day.
(Joking tone) Geez, sometimes I swear I don't know what to do with you, Xena.

The warrior chuckled as she glanced over her shoulder at Gabrielle.

XENA
(Joking tone) Oh, you know you like it.

The blonde just shook her head in mock disapproval as they continued toward the local inn until they heard a voice calling to them.

?
Hey Gabby! Xena!

The dark-haired woman brought her horse to a stop as both she and Gabrielle looked behind them to see their friend, Joxer jogging over to meet them.

JOXER
Long time, no see. How've you guys been?

GABRIELLE
Hey Joxer. It's good to see you.

JOXER
So what brings you here?

Xena shrugged.

XENA
Nothing in particular. You?

The man rested his hand on his sword's handle at his side as he tried to play it cool.

JOXER
Oh, you know, just a little saving a village here, taking out a group of warlords there. You know how it is.

Knowing that despite his good heart, Joxer wasn't particularly the best fighter and was kind of a goofball, so what the man said was likely a vast exaggeration of his recent exploits, Xena decided to just let it go.

XENA
(Flat tone) Uh-huh, sure.

Meanwhile, Gabrielle decided to change the subject.

GABRIELLE
Joxer, you wouldn't happen to know where the local inn is, do you?

JOXER
Oh, yeah. It's just down that way.

The man motioned over his shoulder to a path that led further into town.

JOXER
But I'm pretty sure that they're all filled up.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Of course they are.

Turning Argo toward where she found the town stables, Xena looked down at the bard.

XENA
Well, the town stables are just over there. I'm sure we can stay there for the night.

Gabrielle stretched out her back that had gotten stiff from sitting all day.

GABRIELLE
As long as it's even half decently comfortable, I don't care. I'm sure it'll be better than just sleeping on the ground.

XENA
Well let me go get Argo settled and you can go see if the inn has anything left for dinner until we can restock on our supplies when the shops open tomorrow.

GABRIELLE
Sure.

JOXER
I'm heading back to the inn anyway. I'll walk with you.

With that Xena and Gabrielle parted ways for a bit as Gabrielle went with Joxer to the inn, and Xena brought Argo to the stable and after getting the mare settled and cared for, found a comfortable spot in the fresh hay to spread out her and Gabrielle's bedding.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

GABRIELLE
Ah, that was good.

It was a little later as the blonde laid back on the blanket after finishing her dinner, and Xena sat on a hay bale making sure her sword was well sharpened and polished.

GABRIELLE
So what are we doing after we get what we need tomorrow?

The dark-haired woman shrugged as she kept her eyes on her weapon.

XENA
Don't know. Guess we'll just have to see what the day brings.

The barn fell quiet for a few moments as Gabrielle idly picked at the edge of the blanket she was laying on while watching the warrior focus on her blade in the moonlight that came in through the upper open window of the barn. Xena's focus, the movement of her skilled hands, seemed to capture the bard's full attention as her mind slowly began to drift elsewhere toward other things that those hands were capable of. Things that made the young woman begin to feel a familiar yearning beginning to awaken between her legs as she continued quietly watching the warrior for a few more minutes before speaking again.

GABRIELLE
Are you coming to bed soon?

XENA
Soon. Why?

The warrior looked up as Gabrielle shifted to get more comfortable and tried to play off her increasing arousal.

GABRIELLE
(Lying) No reason. Just that you shouldn't stay up too late.
(Half joking) Warriors need their beauty sleep too you know.

Xena chuckled as she went back to sharpening her blade.

XENA
Well, I wouldn't say that.
(Joking) But don't worry "mother", I'll be sure not to stay up all night.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Funny.

Gabrielle laid there quietly once again as she continued watching Xena work on her sword for another minute or so. All the while feeling herself becoming wet as she found herself unable to keep her mind from picturing Xena's naked body against hers. But seeing that Xena was busy making sure her primary weapon was ready to defend them when needed, Gabrielle figured that was more important, so she thought it better not to bother the other woman. But still her desire was too much to ignore. So with Xena fully occupied with her own task, the bard slowly let her hand drift down to her skirt and slipped it under the waist and into her underwear. Then making sure that Xena's focus was elsewhere, Gabrielle let her fingers begin to slowly rub along her sex. She held in a satisfying sigh as she moved her hand while continuing to watch the warrior woman work. Her mind picturing that it was Xena's hand touching her. Gabrielle continued to touch herself for another couple moments as she felt her longing continuing further and decided that what she was currently doing wasn't going to be enough. So quietly, she moved her legs a little further apart and slid her hand a bit lower before slowly inserting two of her fingers inside herself. The bard unintentionally let out a small gratifying gasp when she pushed into her womanhood and quickly covered her mouth with her other hand as she froze for a long moment, unsure if Xena had heard her. Though she didn't know what the woman would say if she caught the bard in such a compromising position, the fact that Xena could simply look over and catch her at any moment also kind of excited Gabrielle. Even if she wasn't exactly sure why. So after realizing that the raven-haired woman hadn't noticed her, the bard began to slowly slide her fingers out of herself before pushing them back in. She made certain to remain as quiet as possible as she sunk her fingers back into her warmth before retreating them almost completely again. Gradually, the bard began to get into a slow, but steady rhythm. One hand moving beneath her skirt as she repeatedly pumped her fingers in and out of her opening, Gabrielle grabbed at the blanket as she let the building sensation within her take over and she slowly began rocking her hips ever so slightly against her hand. The bard carried on for another couple moments and began to move her fingers faster within herself when she could feel the very early beginning of her orgasm starting to build.

GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Oh gods.

Too enthralled in her own little world at the moment to realize she had said anything or that her breathing had become quite a bit louder, Gabrielle didn't know how to respond when she suddenly heard a voice cut into her self entertainment.

XENA
(Teasing tone) Enjoying yourself?

The bard completely froze as she looked over to see Xena staring right at her with an amused look on her face.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly nervous tone) Oh, well I, uh...

Gabrielle could feel her face turning beet red after getting caught masturbating and quickly took her hand out of her skirt as she averted her gaze from the other woman, not hearing the warrior walk over to her. That was until Gabrielle heard the woman whisper into her ear.

XENA
(Seductive Whisper) Don't stop on my account.

The bard turned to look at Xena in surprise as the warrior who had removed everything but her leather top and skirt, then laid next to her on the blanket.

GABRIELLE
You mean… you wanna watch me while I...

Not having expected the warrior to say something like that, and still feeling somewhat embarrassed about being caught touching herself, Gabrielle paused as she wasn't sure how to react. Xena smirked coyly in response as she tried to make light of the situation in an effort to ease the bard's awkwardness.

XENA
(Seductive tone) Maybe I wanna just sit back and fully get to enjoy just how beautiful and sexy you are while you're in the throes of passion.

The bard smiled as she shook her head in amazement of how yet again the warrior somehow knew just the right thing to say to put her mind at ease, as Gabrielle realized how much she over-thought this sort of thing. She made a quick mental note to remember that Xena wasn't the type to be judgmental when it came to sex. Remembering that the warrior had told her that she never needed to be embarrassed about anything in that regard as Xena had likely done, seen or at least heard of far more than anything that Gabrielle could likely ever think of. And so the blonde decided to put any further worry aside as she put on her best sultry expression and let her desire take over and guide her to whatever she would do next.

GABRIELLE
(Seductive tone) Okay. Then in that case, you just make yourself comfortable and let me take care of this.

Xena's only response was a raised eyebrow, before she motioned for the blonde to go ahead as she got a little more comfortable and watched as Gabrielle turned to face her and began undoing her top, giving the warrior a bit of a strip tease. Getting the string undone, Gabrielle let the shirt fall open and brought her hands up to fondle her breasts for a few moments as she let out a pleasing sigh. She looked at Xena and seeing the way the warrior's eyes watched her every moment, Gabrielle knew that Xena was clearly telling the truth about enjoying just seeing her like this. So feeling emboldened, the bard continued to smooth her hands over her mounds. Periodically cupping them for a moment before just touching. As she did this, the bard repositioned how she was sitting as she leaned back against a hay bale and brought her knees up with her legs open, giving Xena a clear view up her skirt. The warrior kept her eyes on the other woman, feeling her lust for Gabrielle grow stronger by the moment as she laid there watching the blonde's every move.

Soon after, the bard lowered a hand go between her legs and she began rubbing her fingers over her nether region through her underwear. She moaned softly at the resumed attention to the area as she stroked her hand against her center. Gabrielle laid her head back a bit as she continued to stroke her fingers up and down her sex. It wasn't long until she could feel the moisture from her arousal beginning to soak through her underwear as her demand for more continued to grow. Still, she knew how Xena liked to tease her, and that doing so was clearly a turn on for the warrior. So the bard continued to just gently touch herself for a bit longer, feeling her carnal need build a little longer. But as Gabrielle felt her femininity beginning to almost ache with desire for more, the young woman knew that she couldn't hold back any more.

Xena looked on as Gabrielle stopped her casual petting and moved to hike up her skirt and remove her underwear before returning to her previous seated position. Giving Xena a completely unobstructed view of her womanhood. Gabrielle shot the woman a seductive smile as she brought a hand back between her legs and ran her fingers lightly along her center. She rubbed back and forth for a few moments before pressing down a little harder to get more friction and let out a long breath as she relished the feeling. The bard watched Xena's reaction and could tell by her slightly increased breathing that she was fully engrossed in what Gabrielle was doing. And as the blonde continued on, her actions having an obviously more direct impact on herself, she knew that she couldn't keep teasing herself any more and stroked herself just a couple more times before bringing her fingers to her entrance and sunk a pair of digits into her warmth.

GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Oh yes.

Xena watched the other woman's head fall back as she began to pump her fingers in and out of herself. The bard moved her hand back and forth as she felt her nether region being repeatedly penetrated, enjoying every second of it. She continued weaving her digits in and out of her depths for a while, fully enjoying the sensation of both being stroked from within and the fact that it was her own fingers inside of her. Not to say she had never touched herself before, but until her first time with Xena, no one, including the bard herself had ever actually been inside of her. Prior to that, anytime Gabrielle would sate her own arousal, she had always just rubbed her hand and fingers against her center until she was satisfied. But now, feeling herself being filled by her own hand, as the warrior watched made the blonde think of how naughty she felt doing such a thing. But in the best possible way.

GABRIELLE
Oh, gods.

Xena watched as Gabrielle began moving her hand faster and the blonde put her free hand on the floor beside her to lean on as she began pushing herself further against her hand that had in turn started to move faster. The bard soon became a little short of breath as she continued to thrust both her fingers and femininity together. She could feel the tell tale signs of an orgasm rapidly starting to build and continued propelling her fingers in and out of her increasingly wanting sex. Xena's eyes never left the bard as she heard the woman's impassioned cries becoming louder as her movements became more erratic and almost desperate. Her own need becoming near impossible to ignore as she saw Gabrielle getting so close to her release.

GABRIELLE
(Moaning) Yes. Yes. Oh gods. Ye...

The bard's last word got caught in her throat as with one more thrust of both her hips and her hand, she suddenly felt her nether region begin to spasm from within as the euphoric rush of an orgasm crashed into her. With the first wave hitting her, the bard's hips surged forward, as her hand stilled and her eyes turned to the ceiling. The blissful sensation filling her core, the blonde jerked her hips several more times until the warm tingling in her womanhood began to subside and she ceased all movement for several moments leaving her fingers buried within herself, she smirked at the warrior who appeared to be breathing just as heavily as she was.

GABRIELLE
(Teasing/ seductive tone) I'm guessing you enjoyed the show?

Xena smirked, her arousal after watching the bard nearing a fever pitch as she stood and began to undress.

XENA
You could say that.

Pushing her skirt back down, Gabrielle sat up straight as the warrior removed her battle skirt and underwear. Xena’s mind was far too focused on the need for the other woman's touch to bother getting fully undressed, as she sank down to her knees next to the bard, kissing her deeply as her hands began roaming over Gabrielle's body. The women's lips and tongues tangled for several long moments before they separated and Xena spoke seductively into the bard's ear.

XENA
(Sensual tone) Lay back.

Moving away from the hay bale, Gabrielle laid flat on her back and watched as the dark-haired woman positioned herself over her. Xena brought her lips to the younger woman's before whispering something else into her ear, causing Gabrielle to blush slightly as she heard Xena's requests.

GABRIELLE
Are you sure?

The warrior woman smiled.

XENA
Of course if you don't want to.

GABRIELLE
No. I'll do it. I just don't wanna do something wrong or that...

Xena chuckled.

XENA
Trust me Gabrielle, none of this is the least bit new to me. So you have nothing to worry about.

GABRIELLE
Oh right. Sometimes I forget that.

The blonde returned a relieved smile.

GABRIELLE
Okay.

XENA
Only if you're sure Gabrielle. You know you never have to do anything you don't want to.

Gabrielle reached up to bring Xena's face down to hers and captured the warrior's lips with hers, before letting Xena pull back slightly.

GABRIELLE
It's okay Xena. If that's something you want then I wanna give it to you.

The raven-haired woman smiled as the two shared a series of impassioned kisses and Xena slowly ground her sex against Gabrielle's thigh for a bit, coating the younger woman's leg in her wetness. The warrior groaned as she moved her hips back and forth against the woman beneath her for another moment or so as she tasted the bard's lips once more. Then taking her mouth away, Xena crawled over Gabrielle's body to straddle the blonde’s head. Kneeling over the young woman's face, Xena felt Gabrielle's hands come up to begin to smooth over her backside for a moment before the warrior lowered her sex to the bard's waiting mouth. The raven-haired warrior sighed contently as she felt Gabrielle's tongue sweep up her heated center, her urgent need finally about to be sated. As her tongue went to work on the warrior's sex, Gabrielle's hands palmed and pawed at Xena's thighs and ass as she moaned into the woman. While the young woman licked and feasted on her womanhood, Xena started moving against the bard's face. Rocking her hips slowly as the blonde woman's tongue greedily lapped at her center that was overflowing with the sweet juices of the warrior's excitement.

XENA
(Moaning) Oh yes, Gabrielle.

Xena thrust back and forth as she felt Gabrielle's tongue continue its explanation of her nether lands, keeping a steady pace. The bard's moaning vibrated through her depths as the young woman held the warrior tightly against her face. Xena's fists grabbed at the blanket under them as she moved, feeling the bard's tongue touching her femininity just where she needed it, but yet, she craved more as she groaned Gabrielle's name in a way that she hoped conveyed her desire to the other woman. Hearing the tone of the warrior's voice, Gabrielle got the message and continued running her tongue against Xena's womanhood for another moment before taking her mouth away when Xena took one of the bard's hands around between her legs. She guided Gabrielle to skim her finger along her core for a moment before pushing it inside of her to stroke her from within. The dark-haired woman let out a satisfying sigh as she felt Gabrielle's finger enter her and let go of the bard's hand to let her thrust into her at the womans own pace. Xena's head fell back slightly as she enjoyed the blonde's fingers pushing and pulling in and out of her center. The bard's digits reached deep as Xena pressed her hips forward and the warrior gasped loudly as when she felt Gabrielle hit just the right spot within her as a result.

The exquisite feeling sent shivers down Xena's spine as she repeated the motion again and again. She did this several more times, loving every time she felt the bard's fingers press so deep inside of her. Until using all the restraint she could muster, the warrior pulled Gabrielle's fingers from between her legs and felt her center quiver at the loss of the much-needed attention before letting go of the bard's hand as she raised herself up slightly to settle on her hands and knees still over Gabrielle's head, before bringing her womanhood back to meet with the blonde's mouth. Xena moaned as the bard immediately resumed licking, her tongue moving repeatedly up and down the warrior's mound, as Xena pushed closer toward her climax.

XENA
(Breathing heavily) Okay Gabrielle, do it.

Xena moaned, knowing that it wouldn't be much longer before she came, and urged Gabrielle to do what the bard knew she wanted. So hearing the obvious desperation in the warrior's voice, the blonde went into action. While continuing to lap at the raven-haired woman's core, Gabrielle took the hand that had just been burned in Xena's femininity and brought it up behind the warrior where she traced her up and down the center of Xena's ass for a moment before finding the woman's back opening and after lingering there for a moment, slowly began inserting her finger into her. The dark-haired woman let out a satisfied gasp as she felt the bard penetrate her dark opening and groaned the woman's name who simultaneously continued to lick her femininity. Once her finger was about halfway inside Xena's puckered flesh, not wanting to go too far, Gabrielle began moving it back and forth slowly. Feeling the bard's attention to both her front and back openings was near enough to send Xena over the edge right then and there, as it had been quite a long time since anyone had touched her like this. But still the warrior did her best to contain herself as she wanted to enjoy this feeling as long as she could. However, despite what she was hoping for mentally, Xena's body wanted otherwise as her hips seemed to thrust on their own accord, grinding firmly against Gabrielle's mouth as she sent herself back against the bard's finger, pushing it deeper inside her.

XENA
Oh fuck. Gabrielle.

Xena urged the other woman to move her hand faster and after feeling Gabrielle comply, picking up a little speed as she drove her finger in and out of the warrior's puckered flesh, breathed deeply as her arms began to feel weak. The younger woman continued to stroke her tongue against Xena's femininity while keeping her hand moving, sending her finger into the woman again and again. The continual onslaught to both her front and back openings pushed Xena faster toward her release than she had anticipated as her arms shook, threatening to give out completely and forcing the warrior to lower herself down to the blanket. She clung to the blanket as she felt herself racing toward ecstasy. Gabrielle kept her tongue moving over the dark-haired woman's warmth as her finger worked in and out of the dark-haired woman's back door.

While keeping her hand moving, the bard brought her mouth to suck on Xena's clit. The direct contact with the sensitive bundle of nerves added onto the rest of the sensations that she was experiencing was the last straw for the warrior, and Xena was sent past the point of no return as she came hard. Her depths trembled as Gabrielle heard Xena let out a rapacious cry of euphoria, and felt the warrior's anus tighten around her finger as the woman's orgasm ripped through her. Xena's back arched as she bucked against Gabrielle's face, feeling the shockwaves roll over her as both of her overly stimulated openings spammed and twitched with each wave.

The bard slowed her tongue and hand as she let Xena begin to come down from her high. Finally she completely stilled her hand as she lightly rolled her tongue over Xena's sex a few more times, sending shivers through the woman. Finally after the last lingering twitches of her climax faded, Xena looked down at the woman under her and smiled as the bard's eyes met hers and the woman took her mouth from the warrior's sex and removed her digits from the woman's back opening as Xena moved to lay beside her, draping another blanket over their semi-nude bodies.

GABRIELLE
Was that okay?

Xena smiled as she turned to her side and cupped Gabrielle's cheek as she lightly kissed the blonde's lips a few times.

XENA
That was perfect.

She pressed her lips to the bard's again before continuing.

XENA
Thank you for that.

Gabrielle smiled as she moved to lay her head against the warrior's shoulder as she draped her arm over Xena's midsection, feeling the woman pull her into a loving embrace.

GABRIELLE
I'm happy I could do that for you. But if that was something you wanted, why didn't you say something before?

Xena shrugged as she began lightly tracing her fingertips against Gabrielle's shoulder.

XENA
I didn't want to overwhelm you with this sort of thing. So I wanted to wait until I knew you were more comfortable with just having sex in general.

The blonde smiled as she thought of all the ways Xena seemed to care for her, including ways that she clearly hadn't even realized until now.

GABRIELLE
Well I'm glad you trust me enough to share those things with me.

Gabrielle lifted her head to look at the other woman.

GABRIELLE
I love you, Xena.

She kissed the warrior who replied, telling Gabrielle she felt the same and after laying there together for a little longer, decided that it would be better if they got dressed before going to sleep so the barns owner wouldn't get an eyeful in the morning if they came in before either of the women woke. Gabrielle agreed and after reluctantly pulling herself from the warrior's arms the two got dressed except for their boots and Xena's armor. Not long after, Xena smiled as she looked over at the newly asleep bard and kissed the blonde's forehead as she brought the covers further over the bard before closing her eyes and drifting off herself.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The morning sun crept in the quiet barn, as all seemed peaceful and still as Xena opened her eyes to the sound of a rooster crowing and a new day. Not wanting to move just yet, the warrior layed there for a bit, just enjoying the peace and calm of the moment, of which she so infrequently got to do, and thus savored the times when she could. However this particular time quickly proved to be even more fleeting than most as Xena heard the barn door swing open and a voice call out as someone entered.

JOXER
Rise and shine everyone, rise and shine.

Hearing the man shout, a still semi-asleep Gabrielle sat up from her pile of hay that she had worked her way under as she slept through the night.

GABRIELLE
(Flat tone) I'll rise, I refuse to shine.

Ignoring the unhappy comment, Joxer reached into his helmet that he was carrying and pulled out a fresh egg.

JOXER
Yeah? Well, I got us breakfast. Goose eggs.

Then suddenly a horseshoe dropped from the upper level of the stable, hitting Joxer right on the head before dropping into the man's helmet and shattering all of the eggs he had just gotten, and spattering his face with yolk, causing Gabrielle's mood to instantly brighten at the sight.

?
Sweet Equestra! I'm so sorry. I didn't hit anything, did I?

Joxer rubbed his head that was gonna be sore for a while but otherwise appeared to be okay as Gabrielle looked up at the man standing above.

GABRIELLE
(Joking) Nothing important.

Seeing the horseshoe fall, Xena looked up at the man and asked where she could get Argo fitted with a much needed new set. And after getting that settled, headed out of the stable with Gabrielle and Joxer to take care of the restocking they needed to do before heading back out on the road. However, little did any of the trio know that this day would be a day like no other... or rather as Xena would soon find out that was exactly what it would be.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Gabrielle stretched a bit as she stood out in the morning sunlight, before picking a few pieces of hay out of her hair and turning to look at Xena who had walked out of the barn right behind her.

GABRIELLE
I think I'm gonna get some goose eggs for the road. You want me to grab anything else while I’m at it?

XENA
No. I think we’re good on everything.

GABRIELLE
Okay. I’ll meet you out by the city entrance in a little while then.

Giving Xena a quick smile, the bard began making her way toward the market as Joxer quickly followed and caught up with her.

JOXER
Oh, can I go with you?

Hearing Joxer call after her, Gabrielle stopped and looked back at the man.

JOXER
I mean, uh, you know, it's kind of a dangerous town and, um, it might not be safe for you to wander around by yourself.

The blonde smirked.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) You're right. Xena should go.

JOXER
Why Xena? I'm the one who got us those goose eggs to begin with. I mean, if you want a big goose egg, I'm your man.

Gabrielle smirked at the comment as she pictured how clumsy Joxer could be at times and watched him walk off to get the aforementioned eggs.

XENA
So, when do you plan on telling ‘em you don’t like goose eggs?

The bard just gave a shrug and a smirk as she walked off, before Xena followed not far behind.

Xena and Gabrielle made their way down the busy city streets, as the bard took in the sights and made a few brief stops at the various stalls along the way. However, Gabrelle’s casual browsing was soon interrupted when both she and Xena overheard loud shouting that rang out over the rest of the busy people around them, and the pair’s attention was pulled to a sudden commotion that had broken out.

GABRIELLE
Wonder what’s going on over there?

XENA
Let’s find out.

The warrior began moving toward the crowd as Gabrielle quickly put back what she had picked up to look at, and followed Xena to investigate. Walking closer, the pair saw that two men were arguing.

JOXER
Hey now, why don’t we all just calm down here.

?
I don't wanna fight you, Tybelus.

The man who was just referred to as Tybelus stepped closer to the other unknown man as he drew the sword from his side.

TYBELUS
(Angry tone) As if I care what you want. Now defend yourself, or prepare to die right here and now.

Again Joxer spoke up to try and calm the two arguing men down before things got out of hand.

JOXER
Let me interject.

XENA
Joxer.

Xena approached the group as she tried getting Joxer’s attention over the shouting by calling him again. But as the warrior neared the trio, she saw one of the unfamiliar men suddenly lunge for the other as an all out fight quickly erupted.

XENA
Hey!

Jumping into action, the raven-haired woman moved to break up the fight, grabbing one of the assailants by the shirt and pulling him away.

GABRIELLE
Joxer, what are you doing? I thought you were getting more eggs.

Hearing the young woman call him, Joxer turned around slowly.

GABRIELLE
Joxer?

Both Gabrielle and Xena froze in their tracks at what they saw as Joxer held up a hand that was covered in blood. Leaving Xena to notice even more of it coming from the man's side, before his legs gave out and Gabrielle caught him.

GABRIELLE
Joxer!

The young woman lowered the injured Joxer to the ground as Xena swiftly crouched in front of them to see what she could do as the other woman looked at her.

GABRIELLE
Xena.

The warrior was silent as she felt for a pulse and got a better look at the man’s wound before taking her hand away and giving Gabrielle a mournful look.

XENA
He’s gone.

GABRIELLE
No.

The bard shook her head in disbelief as the reality of the situation set in and she lowered her eyes to Joxer’s motionless body in front of her.

DABRIELLE
(Sad tone) No, Joxer.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

It was dark as Gabrielle stood on the bank of a river not far from the city, watching the flames that rose from the funeral pyre as Xena sang a song of mourning for their now deceased friend.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself sadly) Joxer. This can’t be real. You can’t actually be gone.

The bard wiped her tears as she heard Xena finish singing and looked over at the warrior.

GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) This is all my fault, Xena. If I hadn’t sent Joxer for those eggs, he’d still be…

XENA
(Soft tone) No, Gabrielle.

The dark-haired woman put her arm around the bard and held her close as she tried to comfort her.

XENA
None of this is your fault. Joxer died a hero, just like he always wanted.

The two stood there watching the flames in silence for a little longer before the warrior looked down at the other woman who had her head resting against her chest.

XENA
It’s been a long day. Come on, let’s get some rest.

GABRIELLE
I don't know. I don’t think I can.

XENA
We can at least lay down and try. Come on.

Xena took the bard’s hand and led her away from the water, where she spread out a blanket and the two laid down, with Gabrielle wrapped in the warrior's arms.

XENA
Sleep now. It'll hurt less in the morning.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

All was still as the sun rose on another day, and Xena and Gabrielle laid sound asleep. That was until the warrior heard an oddly familiar sound that woke her, leaving the woman confused at what she saw when she opened her eyes to find herself looking up at the ceiling of a building instead of the open sky that she had fallen asleep under the night before.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Where am I?

The warrior looked around for a moment as her concern quickly shifted to Gabrielle and where the bard might be now if she had also been moved from where the two had slept the night before.

XENA
Gabrielle?

Xena was about to sit up, when she heard the sound of a door open, followed by the sound of a familiar voice that caused the warrior to question her normally incredible senses when she saw someone step into the doorway with a friendly shout.

JOXER
Rise and shine everyone, rise and shine.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Completely confused by what she was seeing as Joxer, who both she and Gabrielle had witnessed die just the day before, Xena stood up from where she had awoken and moved to where Joxer stood.

XENA
Joxer?

The warrior looked her friend up and down for a moment as she tried to piece together the puzzle of how the man was standing right there before her.

XENA
How are you…? You should be dead.

Joxer shrugged slightly as he puffed out his chest in a humorously exaggerated fashion.

JOXER
True. I suppose a man like me should have died a thousand times over. But when you're as skilled as me, with all the grit and nerves of steel I have, it would take a whole army to take down an unstoppable warrior like me.

Ignoring the man’s typical outlandish grandstanding, Xena just smiled as she grabbed Joxer and pulled him into a playful headlock, before ruffling up his hair.

XENA
Come here, you!

JOXER
Hey! Ow! Ow! Ow! Xena!

Ater a moment, the raven-haired woman released Joxer, who responded by giving her a curious look as he flattened out his tousled hair.

JOXER
What was that all about? You know I don’t remember you ever being this happy to see me.

XENA
I can’t quite explain it, but I had the strangest dream last night. It all felt so real.

JOXER
Okay?

?
(Unhappy grumble) Rise and shine, rise and shine.

Hearing the sudden interjection into the conversation, Xena looked behind her to see Gabrielle sit up from the pile of hay.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) I'll rise, but I refuse to shine.

The bard’s comment seeming oddly familiar, the wheels in Xena’s mind began to turn, as she sensed that something about this whole situation seemed amiss.

JOXER
Yeah? Well…

Joxer carried on as Xena watched him hold out his hemet.
JOXER
I got us all breakfast. Goose eggs.

XENA
Joxer, move.

The woman pushed Joxer away, who stumbled back several steps and gave her an unhappy look as he regained his balance.

JOXER
Hey, you don't have to eat 'em. Geez I try to do something nice and this is…

The man’s complaint was brought to an abrupt halt when a horseshoe dropped from the upper level of the stable and landed on Joxer's foot.

JOXER
Ow!

EDOS
Sweet Equestra! I'm so sorry. I didn't hit anything, did I?

Remembering that very same thing happening, Xena looked up to see the stable owner standing above as she now knew for certain that something very strange was going on.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) That was no dream.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

It was just a short time later that the trio were standing together outside of the stable, and Xena looked around at the people going about their day, but all of which the woman had somehow seen before. Meanwhile at the same time, something also seemed slightly odd to Gabrielle as she watched the warrior, she could tell that there was something on the woman's mind.

GABRIELLE
Xena, why did you seem so excited to see Joxer when he came into the stables?

Hearing the blonde’s question, Xena looked at the younger woman.

XENA
I can’t explain it, but Joxer was killed yesterday. He was dead, I know it. But now, here he is.

Overhearing the conversation, Joxer himself chimed in as they walked and looked over at Xena.

JOXER
Well, as you know, Xena, warriors like us always have a sixth sense. We can always tell when something's off or heading our way. OW!

Not watching where he was going, Joxer smacked his head on a low hanging tree branch, as Xena and Gabrielle continued talking as if nothing happened while they tried to figure out why everything that was happening felt so familiar to the warrior woman.

GABRIELLE
Could it have been some kind of vision?

XENA
No, it was all too real.

JOXER
Wait a minute.

The two women looked over at Joxer who had caught back up with them.

JOXER
What if this, right now isn’t real?

Gabrielle rolled her eyes at the ridiculous sounding question.

GABRIELLE
Can you feel this?

She punched his arm..

JOXER
Ow! Yes.

GABRIELLE
Then I guess we’re real.

Joxer rubbed his arm as the bard returned her attention to Xena.

GABRIELLE
So let me get this straight, Xena.You're saying that I forgot everything that happened yesterday?

XENA
Technically, no. Because it doesn't seem like any of it actually happened for you.

GABRIELLE
Well, if it never happened, then what's to forget?

XENA
Today.

GABRIELLE
But today hasn't happened yet.

XENA
Well, it happened to me.

GABRIELLE
Yesterday.

XENA
No, the other today.

GABRIELLE
So you're saying that today is actually yesterday for you, but, for us, today is today, because we can't remember that today really happened yesterday, right?

XENA
Right.

GABRIELLE
Okay, now I’m confused.

JOXER
Oh, oh! Wait, I got it.

Gabrielle and Xena looked at Joxer as he continued.

JOXER
What if none of this is really happening and we're all just some figment of someone else's imagination? Like everything we do is just part of some really long play or story or something, and none of us are actually real.

Both Gabrielle and Xena looked at Joxer for a moment as they briefly contemplated the man’s sanity.

GABRIELLE
Joxer, how much did you have to drink last night?

JOXER
Actually I didn’t drink at all last night. Why?

Pushing past the momentary nonsense, Xena decided to get the conversation back on track, as her focus returned to the younger woman.

XENA
You don't remember anything? Even Joxer's death? We mourned and had a funeral for him. You cried.

JOXER
She cried over me?

Joxer looked at the bard and smiled.

JOXER
Aww, Gabby. You do care.

The blonde rolled her eyes in annoyance, and quickly changed the subject.

GABRIELLE
I think I'll get some goose eggs for the road.

JOXER
I'll go with you.

Gabrielle turned to walk away, but was stopped when Xena grabbed her arm.

XENA
No, wait. We stay together.

GABRIELLE
Why? You don’t really think what you saw before will really happen?

XENA
Maybe, or maybe not. Either way I don’t wanna take any chances.

Suddenly the trio overheard yelling that caught their attention.

TYBELUS
What jackass taught you people how to drive a cart?!

NERON
I heard about Casca, Tybelus.

Meanwhile Joxer felt Xena grip his shoulder and looked at the woman.

XENA
Don’t you even think about getting involved.

JOXER
Oh, come on. Do you honestly think I'd be stupid enough to step in between two guys with swords?

XENA / GABRIELLE
Yes.

Feeling insulted, Joxer scoffed at the pair’s response as they watched the argument continue for another moment, before Xena stepped forward to take matters into her own hands.

XENA
I'll take care of this. You two wait in the alley.

JOXER
Alley? You’ve got to be kidding. I'm not running to wait in some alley!

He stepped forward and struck a heroic pose.

JOXER
I'm Joxer the Mighty!

Not in the mood to debate the plan she had already laid out, Xena shot the overly confident man a sinister glare that told both him and Gabrielle that going against what she had said was not a wise decision.

JOXER
On second thought, I should probably stay with Gabby to make sure she stays safe.

The bard just rolled her eyes at the comment, as she grabbed the man’s arm, and the two made their way toward the alley. Then with that settled, Xena hurried over to break up the fight.

?
I don’t wanna fight you, Tybelus. It was an accident. I swear.

Tybellus scowled as he swung his blade at the other man.
TYBELUS
(Angry tone) Nice try. There are no accidents between the houses of
Menos and Lycost!

Tybelus swung his sword, but was shocked when his arm was caught and he heard an unfamiliar voice, before looking next to him to see an unknown woman standing beside him.

XENA
(Stern tone) All right, that’s enough!

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Meanwhile, in the alley, Joxer idly fiddled with a horseshoe as they waited for Xena.

JOXER
Hey, watch this one.

In an attempt to show off, Joxer tossed the horseshoe to bounce it off of a pole and inadvertently hit one of a pair of men who just happened to be walking by in the stomach.

JOXER
Oops. Sorry.

The man scowled as he and his companion stormed over to Joxer.

MAN 1
(Angry tone) Menos bastard.

The man shoved Joxer into the stone alley wall.

JOXER
(Slightly nervous tone) Actually, we're not affiliated with the house of Menos.

MAN #2
You insult my house?

JOXER
(Slightly nervous tone) What?! No. Of course not. It's not a bad house. Needs a little sweeping. O-oh!

The two men drew their swords and pointed them at Joxer, who now sensed that both he and Gabrielle were about to be in some serious trouble. He quickly began trying to talk his way out of the now very dangerous situation.

JOXER
(Nervous tone) Whoa. Now let me just interject a little thought,
here. Menos, Lycost. What's in a name, huh?

Then from above, a figure dropped behind the men and cracked their heads together, knocking them out as they fell to the ground.

GABRIELLE
Xena!

JOXER
(Lying) Thanks for the help, but you know I had them right where I wanted ‘em.

XENA
(Flat tone) Uh-huh.

Hearing more fighting nearby, Xena took off once again as she effortlessly lept between the buildings to get to the rooftops. She jumped from building to building as she hurried to break up another fight. Finally, the warrior came to the town square where a large group of people had gathered and where yet another fight was threatening to break out. She jumped down from the roof just as one man was thrusting his sword at another and caught it in her hand, stopping his attack. Unfortunately, the second man saw the warrior’s intervention as an opportunity and lunged forward, driving his weapon into his enemy’s stomach and killing him before Xena could do anything.

XENA
(Angry tone) Damn it.

She threw her elbow into the surviving man’s face to get him to let go of his weapon and lowered his victim to the ground as she heard a couple more arguing heading her way.

?!
(Angry tone) Now, you're hiring mercenaries to do your killing? This is a new low. Even for you Menos.

LORD MENOS
(Angry tone) Don’t be ridiculous, Lycost. Why would we hire strangers to do something we're more than happy to do ourselves?

LORD LYCOST
(Angry tone) I swear, I will have vengeance on you, Menos. Along with the rest of your gods forsaken house. You realize, this means all-out war?

LORD MENOS
(Angry tone) I look forward to it.

The two men drew their swords and were just about to fight when again, Xena took it upon herself to put a stop to it.

XENA
Sorry, I don’t think so.

The warrior brought her own sword down hard over the men’s weapons. Breaking them both in half and rendering the two sides unarmed.

XENA
(Stern tone) Now, go home.

She turned to the crowd as she continued.

XENA
(Stern tone) All of you. Until you people can learn to play nice.

Both leader’s of the feuding sides glared at one another.

LORD LYCOST
(Angry tone) This isn't over.

He turned his attention to Xena.

LORD LYCOST
(Angry tone) I don't know who you think you are, but as far as I’m concerned, you're one of them, now.

He gestured to lord Menos who just shot both him and the dark-haired woman an irate glare before storming away, with Lycost leaving right after in the opposite direction,

GABRIELLE
That was amazing, Xena.

The bard walked over to stand next to Xena.

GABRIELLE
It was all happening exactly like you said.Only for whatever reason, you had a second chance to save Joxer.

JOXER
Oh, please. I had the situation totally under control.

Xena and Gabrielle turned toward Joxer, who had made his way to join them.

XENA
Joxer may be still alive, but someone else is dead. And now there are a whole lot of seriously pissed off people in this village who consider us the enemy. So, we need to be careful now. Who knows what they might do in retaliation.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

It was late when Xena and Gabrielle headed back toward the stables after parting ways with Joxer to turn in for the night. Everything seemed as it should be until they spotted what looked to be a person sitting up against the barn door, slouched over. Without thinking twice, they hurried over to find the stable owner had been severely beaten.

XENA
What happened?!

The warrior crouched down to look at the man’s injuries.

EDOS
They demanded to know which horse belonged to you. I wouldn't tell them. I tried to stop them but they just slaughtered them all.

Xena raised her head to look at Edos as she realized what he was saying.

XENA
No.

She quickly stood and ran into the stable as Gabrielle looked on, unsure of what was going on.

GABRIELLE
Xena?

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

It was dark in the stable as Xena stepped inside before grabbing a lantern that hung on the wall and lit it to see.

XENA
Argo?

The warrior whistled for her ever reliable mare when she didn’t respond to her name being called.

XENA
Here girl.

Still not getting any response, Xena began to fear that her suspicion of what had happened in that stable were true. She made her way to look in the stalls, there in the first one, the woman laid eyes on exactly what she had feared she would find.
XENA
(Sad Tone) No, Argo.

Xena closed her eyes to the horrible sight as Gabrielle stepped into the barn to find the warrior standing at the far end of the building and made her way over to the woman.

GABRIELLE
Xena?

The bard was about to ask the older woman what was wrong, when she reached where Xena was standing and looked into the stall to see Argo laying on the barn floor in a mess of crimson stained hay. Then, not saying anything, Gabrielle took Xena’s hand in hers as she just stood there in silence with the heartbroken warrior for a while. Later she stood with Xena and Joxer as they watched the flames carry Argo’s spirit to wherever noble creatures like the warrior's mare went after they died.

JOXER.
I’m sorry, Xena. If this day really did happen again, just so you could save me, then, in a way, Argo's death is my fault.

Feeling guilty for Xena losing the horse he knew she loved so much, Joxer decided it would be better to leave the warrior to grieve without the potential reminder of why Argo was now gone, staring her right in the face, and leaving Xena and Gabrielle standing silently by the fire.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

With the sun rising, Xena was awakened by the sound of a rooster's crow. Her eyes opened to the ceiling of the stable yet again as the memory of the previous day made its way to the front of her mind.

XENA
(Thinking to herself sadly) Argo.

She then heard a snort that got her attention, and instinctually looked in the direction of the sound, only to see an unbelievable sight.

XENA
Argo?

Quickly, the warrior sat up and turned to get a better view of her beloved horse standing in the nearby stall, peacefully munching on some hay.

JOXER
Rise and shine, everyone…

Hearing Joxer’s voice, Xena’s eyes were drawn to the barn entrance to see him standing in the doorway saying the same line that she had heard him say for the past two days, with his helmet full of eggs.

JOXER
Rise and shine.

GABRIELLE
I'll rise, but I refuse to shine.

Again, Xena watched as the bard sat up from the same pile of straw giving her same complaint about being woken up so early. Then remembering what happened next, the warrior brought her attention back to Joxer, telling him to step aside.

JOXER
Why?

XENA
Just do it.

JOXER
Why?

The dark-haired woman sighed as she looked up to see that it was now too late for her to change what happened next.

XENA
It’s too late now, never mind.

JOXER
What are you…?

Before he could finish his thought, Xena watched as a horseshoe fell from above yet again, hitting Joxer on the head and dropping him to the ground..

EDOS
Sweet Equestra! I'm so sorry. I…

Knowing what the stable hand was going to say, Xena finished the man’s sentence along with him.

EDOS/ XENA
Didn't hit anything, did I?

Now very confused by how the warrior appeared to know everything that was going to happen before the events took place, Gabrielle looked at Xena with a surprised, yet baffled expression.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Outside of the barn, Xena explained the strange situation she had found herself in, to Gabrielle and Joxer again.

GABRIELLE
Poison dart? Did you hit your head? Or maybe you’re sick or something. How’re you feeling?

Concerned about the lack of sense that Xena seemed to be making, the bard put her hand to the other woman’s forehead to check for a fever.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) Stop that.

The warrior swatted Gabrielle’s hand away.

XENA
There’s nothing wrong with me. I’m telling you, Everything keeps repeating itself. This is the third time I’ve woken up to it being the same exact day.

The blonde looked at Xena in disbelief.

GABRIELLE
(Lying) Sure, I always hate it when that happens.

The dark-haired woman scowled at the condescending comment, but had to admit that what she was saying did sound completely crazy. But even so, she knew that she wasn’t just imagining things, and needed to do something to stop the day from repeating, otherwise she could be stuck living out that same day forever.

XENA
I'm telling you, I’m not imagining things. This village is on the verge of an
all-out bloodbath. And there’s something that happens today that’s causing everyone here to relive the same day over and over. I don't know why I’m the only one who seems to be aware of what's going on, but I’m gonna find what’s causing it. Then finally bring this day to an end for good.

GABRIELLE
Xena…

The blonde stood there for a moment, unsure of what to say or think of what the warrior had just told her, as Joxer decided to speak up.

JOXER
Okay, so let's assume you're right, for the moment, and it has something to do with the feud. Then the solution to the problem is simple.

XENA
Which is?

JOXER
The enemy of my enemy is my friend. If they had a common enemy, they'd
have to work together.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly sarcastic tone) Sure, that’s easy for you to say. But just who would be that enemy?

Joxer smiled.

JOXER
The three of us.

GABRIELLE
(Flat tone) Seriously?

JOXER
Yeah. Look, if we declare our hatred of both houses. Then, when they get together to kill us, we throw down our weapons, and get them to join us in
peace. It's a great plan! I've known plenty of people who've bonded over their mutual hatred of me.

Xena and Gabrielle looked at each other for a moment, as they contemplated the man’s plan.

GABRIELLE
Well, he does make a good point.

Xena thought for another moment before making her decision on whether to go with Joxer’s plan, and began to form one of her own.

XENA
(Thinking out loud) The best time to stop something is before it starts. If I can break this cycle somehow…

Xena’s thought process was then interrupted by the feuding families arguing in the streets, over a nearby cart.

TYBELUS
(Angry tone) Neron! I've been looking for you, you jackass.

NERON
(Angry tone) I heard about Casca, Tybelus. He’s dead because of your people.

XENA
Casca.That’s it.

Over hearing the men’s argument, Xena got an idea for where to begin to hopefully put an end to the cycle that everyone in the town was stuck in.

XENA
If I can find Casca and save him. Then these two guys will have no reason
to fight. And no fight means no duel, which means no bloodbath, so the day will no longer have a reason to repeat itself.

GABRIELLE
And that makes sense to you?

Xena looked at the blonde.

XENA
Gabrielle, nothing about any of this makes any kind of sense to begin with.

JOXER
So when it comes to what you say is happening, then what you said actually does make sense.

XENA
Exactly.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) I think I'm just gonna stop trying to understand any of this, it’s giving me a headache.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The next repeating day started as all the others before, with the sound of a rooster and Xena shot up, fully ready to tackle the upcoming events before the barn door even opened.

JOXER
Rise and shine, everyone, rise and sh-

Not wasting any time, Xena closelined the man, knocking him to the ground as she hurried outside, and raced through the town to find Casca and prevent his death.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Making her way through the busy city streets, Xena moved quickly to locate her target. She searched the area where she had learned from her research that Cassca was at that time. Then through the crowd, the warrior overheard the name, before looking to spot an elderly man moving through the street, and realized that she had found her man. She was about to approach him when the warrior heard another sound and saw a horse drawn cart racing down the street toward them. The people in the way heard the cart coming and swiftly got out of its path, with many complaining about it going too fast in such a crowded area. However, there was one person who didn't move, and Xena realized that the elderly man must have been hard of hearing and couldn’t tell that the cart was coming right for him.

XENA
Look out!
The warrior lept into action and ran toward the man, before getting a few feet away and with the cart nearly on top of the man, dove forward to push him out of the way just at the last second.

CASSCA
(Slightly irritated tone) Hey, watch where you're going.

The old man brushed himself off as Xena gave him an annoyed look of her own.

XENA
(Flat tone) Good to see that you’re clearly okay.

The man looked down at where the cart had just come through to see his hat that hat fallen off when Xena shoved him, laying flattened out with dirty wheel tracks on it

CASSCA
(Irritated tone) My hat! Damn Menos driver!

The man shook his fist angrily at the disappearing cart as Xena sighed at the man’s priorities before walking away.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The day went on and Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer walked through the city as the bard tried to wrap her mind around what Xena had told her about the day being on a loop.

GABRIELLE
And every morning, you wake up back in the stable.

XENA
That's right.

JOXER
Well, what if you stayed awake all night?

XENA
No, I've tried that. No matter what I do, once it reaches a certain point during the night, I just blink and I wake up right back in the stable again, and it's still today.

GABRIELLE
But that just doesn't make sense.

XENA
(Flat tone) No kidding.

GABRIELLE
How many times have you woken up to the same day?

The warrior thought for a moment as she realized that all of the repeating days were beginning to blend together for her and sighed.

XENA
Too many.

GABRIELLE
What do you think-

Knowing what the bard was going to ask just like everything else that took place that day, Xena had experienced this very same conversation multiple times before, and because of that, already had her answers ready.

XENA
It's not the Fates, it's not Ares, it's not something
that I ate.

She moved her hair to the side to show her neck as she continued.

XENA
No, I have no poison dart marks, or any Bacchae bites.

JOXER
Is that a hickey?

Xena let her hair fall back in place as she turned away from Joxer, and Gabrielle looked away to hide her face that had turned a bit red from someone noticing the mark that she hadn’t realized she had left on the warrior’s neck from their lovemaking the night before they had gotten stuck in the time loop.

XENA
Look.

Xena let the slightly awkward moment pass as she continued.

XENA
You can believe me, or not. It doesn't matter. Today has happened before. Multiple times. But now hopefully, by saving Casca, it won't keep repeating anymore.

The group walked on for a bit, before hearing people shouting and Xena knew that it was the feuding houses going at it yet again. But this time, over something completely different than she had seen them fighting over before.

XENA
(Irritated Tone) This feud is even worse than I thought. These guys'll
find any excuse to fight.

The warrior, bard and their friend looked on as the warring sides drew their weapons to attack one another.

XENA
It's gonna take more than saving Casca to end this level of deep-seated hate.

JOXER
You know, the enemy of my enemy-

A scream rang out and knowing that Joxer would be killed if he intervened, Xena looked to Gabrielle.

XENA
Get Joxer out of here.

JOXER
(Slightly insulted tone) What’s that supposed to mean?

XENA
(Stern tone) Go!

Seeing how serious the warrior woman was, Gabrielle took Joxer by the arm and began dragging him off as the man complained.

JOXER
Hey, I don't wanna go. This is stupid. I'm a warrior.

Xena watched as the two left and was feeling good that they would be safe. That was until she saw them make a turn between some buildings and she remembered that was where Joxer was killed before.

XENA
Wait, not down that alley!

The warrior woman ran to catch up with Gabrielle and Joxer in the hopes that she could reach them before it was too late.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

GABRIELLE
Joxer, no!

Hearing Gabrielle yell, Xena pushed herself to move faster as just a moment later she rounded the corner and froze as she saw Gabrielle laying on the ground.

XENA
Gabrielle!

In an instant, the warrior was kneeling at the young woman’s side, holding her as she pressed her hand over the deep stab wound in Gabrielle’s stomach to try and stop the bleeding.

XENA
Gabrielle?

The bard didn’t respond, as Xena tried again to get any kind of reaction from the woman.

XENA
Gabrielle!

She pressed her fingers to Gabrielle's neck to check for a pulse and only felt her heart sink when she didn’t find any signs of life

XENA
No, Gabrielle. No.

Knowing based on the wound, that there was nothing she could do, and that Gabrielle was dead, Xena cried as she gathered the bard’s body in her arms. She stayed like that, just holding the blonde for some time, as Joxer looked on and silently cried before walking away to give Xena some space when he saw just how devastated Gabrielle’s death had left her.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Later, Xena stood looking at the night sky after Gabrielle had been laid to rest. She let out a sorrowful yell into the air as she sunk to the ground and cried, cursing having ever stepped foot in the city before her tears eventually gave way to the warrior’s exhaustion and the heartbroken Xena slowly drifted off to sleep.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

The sound off of a rooster roused Xena from her slumber, as she yet again found herself back in the same barn she’d woken up in for an unknown number of times now. As she fully came to her senses, Xena’s mind flashed back to the prior repeating day and how Gabrielle had been killed. So actually hoping that she was in fact reliving the same day once more, the warrior cautiously pushed a hand into the pile of hay where she knew Gabrielle had awoken from in all of the looping days prior. The warrior began to feel around for a moment, until she felt something, and heard a small yawning giggle.

GABRIELLE
(Half asleep/ giggling) Xena, it’s too early for that.

XENA
Gabrielle!

Incredibly relieved to hear the bard’s voice, Xena pulled a now startled Gabrielle out of the mountain of hay.

GABRIELLE
Xena?!

The bard looked around completely puzzled as to what the other woman was thinking, as she swiftly found herself wrapped in the warrior’s arms.

XENA
You're okay. I was so worried I might’ve lost you. I don’t think I'd ever be so glad to wake up in this damned stable again.

GABRIELLE
Xena, what are…

The confused blonde was interrupted as the barn door opened.

JOXER
Rise and shine. Rise and…

Suddenly Joxer paused as he saw Gabrielle and Xena in what most would have seen as an intimate or possibly compromising position. But the man being at times a bit too oblivious to some things for his own good, just smiled and hurried over to the women.

JOXER
Awww. Group hug!

Both the bard and warrior groaned slightly as Joxer wiggled his way between them, throwing his arms around the pair and pulling them into a somewhat uncomfortable embrace.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Joxer. Get, off.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) Okay, that's enough, Damn it, Joxer. Get off!

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A few minutes later the group had made their way out of the stable as Gabrielle and Joxer watched the raven-haired woman pace back and forth after she had gone over informing them of the vicious cycle they all were stuck in.

XENA
Every day, the rooster crows, Joxer walks in, the horseshoe falls, I save the old man, stop a duel and then the whole thing starts all over again no matter what else I do.

Joxer thought for a moment before getting an idea.

JOXER
Maybe it's the rooster.

The warrior was about to comment on how ridiculous the suggestion sounded, but then stopped to think that given how crazy the fact that she was reliving the same day over and over already was, the rooster did have the possibility of somehow being the problem. A problem that Xena knew exactly how to fix.

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It was early when Xena awoke the next repeating morning and grabbed her chakram before moving to the barn window. Then looking outside, she spotted the rooster that had given the town its wake up call. The animal stood fluttering its way onto a fence and geared up to let out its cry. The sound was just about to leave the rooster’s throat, when it was suddenly hit with a sharp, round, flying object, causing it to make a very different cry as a flurry of feathers were scattered around and Xena caught her chakram as it came back to her.

XENA
(Muttering to herself) Stupid bird.

Xena laid back down and went back to sleep for a bit, before spending the rest of the day making sure that nothing happened to Gabrielle or Joxer, and then going to bed after sun down with the hopes that she had finally solved her problem.

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With the sunrise came the sound of the rooster and the warrior pulled the blanket over her head over her head, letting out a loud, frustrated yell as a result of knowing that her attempt to escape this day had failed yet again. Again, she made her way through the day, trying another idea to end the cycle. And again, she went to sleep, hoping that she’d finally wake to a new day. Then the sun rose, the rooster crowed, and Joxer opened the barn door with the same happy “rise and shine” line. Tired, frustrated and just done dealing with all of it, Xena sat up with an angry yell as she grabbed her chakram and sent it flying into Joxer’s chest, who was killed on impact and dropped to the ground as Gabrielle looked on in horror and disbelief.

GABRIELLE
You just… You killed him!?

The bard looked at Xena as the warrior laid back down to go to sleep.

GABRIELLE
Xena! Why? He was our friend and you just…

XENA
Don’t worry, tomorrow he’ll be just fine and you’ll forget this ever happened.

GABRIELLE
What are you talking about?!
(Angry tone) Joxer is dead! You just killed him for no reason! I don’t even know what to say to you right now!

The bard watched as the seemingly remorseless Xena just rolled over to get comfortable, and let out a yawn as she closed her eyes.

XENA
I’m not worried about it. When I wake up tomorrow, it’ll be today again, and none of this will have mattered at all.

Gabrielle looked at the warrior, certain that she had completely lost it before moving over to see if there was anything she could do for Joxer before leaving, unsure of what could have driven Xena to commit such a heinous act after having been so intent on making up for this sort of senseless evil like she had done in the past.

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Xena finished tying her boot as the day began again, and she ignored the muffled sounds within the barn before grabbing her chakram that was sitting on the hay bale beside her and hooked it on her waist.

XENA
Okay, all set.

The warrior looked over toward where the muffled noise was coming from to see Gabrielle and Joxer, who she had tied up and gagged to prevent either from getting into any potentially dangerous situations while she continued her mission to end the seemingly endless cycle.

XENA
Now, you two stay out of trouble while I figure out a way out of this.

With that, the warrior left the pair tied up in the stable as she headed into town with the mission to gather as much information as she possibly could. In the hopes that someone would give her at least some kind of clue as to why this was happening or how to stop it.

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The warrior spent the day asking various locals if anything seemed odd about the town, with nothing being particularly helpful. She sighed to herself as she walked through the streets, trying to think of where to go next, until the warrior found herself at the local apothecary and decided to go in to question the owner.

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XENA
I see. So, you've treated both houses?

APOTHECARY
Treated, cured, buried. I'm the closest thing to a doctor they have. What was it you needed again?

XENA
Night's bane.

APOTHECARY
Night's bane, hm?

The man turned to look through the various small bottles on his shelves for what the dark-haired woman requested.

APOTHECARY
Huh. That’s odd.

XENA
What?

APOTHECARY
My Night’s bane seems to be missing.

XENA
Could you have sold it?

The man returned his attention to the warrior.

APOTHECARY
Oh no. I would definitely remember selling something like that. Night’s bane is deadly. Just one sip of that stuff, and the next day you're on a one-way trip to Tartarus.

Finding this new information rather interesting, Xena continued the line of questioning.

XENA
So, anyone drop dead lately?

APOTHECARY
No.

Xena continued her mission and after a long day of investigating, went to bed fully prepared to wake up to the same day, but with a good plan of how to make this time the last.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

XENA
Rise and shine. Raise and shine. Blah, blah, blah.

The door to the stable opened, and Joxer was nearly run over as Xena rushed outside. Having already awoken earlier, she left the man to stare in the direction she had gone.

JOXER
Oka-a-ay?

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Later that day, as Xena found a little while to rest, the warrior stood in the city with Gabrielle and Joxer to explain things yet again, hoping that, like everything else happening that day, she’d be doing that for the last time, too.

GABRIELLE
We've repeated the day that many times?

XENA
Yes.

GABRIELLE
But-

Knowing everything that was about to be asked, the warrior decided to speed the process up by answering every question before they could even be spoken.

XENA
No, no, yes, no. I tried that. Yes, both ways. No, I don't know. No, again. Are there any more questions?

Gabrielle and Joxer gave the woman a look of pure confusion as they sat there, not knowing what to say, and Xena continued before walking away.

XENA
Good. Moving on.

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Moving quickly, Xena made it to the pair of feuding men and their supporters and got to work on stopping the fight before it could truly begin.

XENA
Put your swords down! It is time to talk peace.

The men scowled at the warrior for a moment as they told her to mind her own business, and then began to go after each other, before being grabbed and shoved apart once again, as Xena tried a more diplomatic approach to solve this particular problem.

XENA
They say that the man who kills his own flesh and blood is cursed forever.

The warrior looked at one of the men as she continued.

XENA
Is that what you want? To kill your own brother?

Both men first looked at Xena, then at each other in shock before the woman got them to agree to put aside their differences at least for the time being, and to try to settle their dispute peacefully. But even with one problem solved, there would be no easy solution to fixing the deep hatred between the others involved in the feud. A fact made clear when another man stepped forward with an accusation of his father nearly being run down by a cart, whom Xena had saved that day already and explained as such, along with the fact that the old man was almost run down due to him being hard of hearing, and not because of any ill will from the cart driver.

XENA
And Lycost…

Next, the warrior turned her focus to the two leaders of the warring houses.

XENA
Didn’t you nearly lose your wife and son in childbirth?

LORD LYCOST
The midwife was sure they'd both die. But thank the gods she ended up being wrong.

XENA
Actually, it's not the gods you should be thanking here. It's your enemy. Or more specifically his wife. While you were away at war, it was Lady Menos that came to your house and ended up saving your wife and son. She hated this feud more than anyone.

LORD MENOS
(Somber tone) She did.

Menos looked at the other man.

LORD MENOS
Maybe, she's right. Perhaps it's time we laid down our weapons and talked.

LORD LYCOST
Perhaps it is.

The house leaders looked back at Xena and thanked her for her help, before one asked how the woman seemed to know so much, and why she would bother to intervene in something that didn’t involve her, and stood to gain nothing from going out of her way to help.

Xena smiled.

XENA
No thanks necessary. Let’s just say I have far too much time on my hands not to help.

With that, the two leaders clasped arms in friendship and the crowd cheered as Gabrielle and Joxer walked over to Xena.

GABRIELLE
Congratulations, Xena.

JOXER
Yeah.

GABRIELLE
You saved two lives, stopped three duels, and made peace between lifelong enemies. That’s gotta be everything that needs changing, I bet this'll stop the day from repeating.

XENA
Here’s hoping.

JOXER
Well, you did great. Why don't we just go and relax, and have a little party?

GABRIELLE
Yeah.

The warrior smiled.

XENA
Sure. Why not?

The trio left the square and made their way to the city’s tavern to celebrate long into the night, before Joxer finally retired to his room and the warrior and bard got a newly open room and went to bed themselves, this time with Xena completely convinced that she had at last fixed everything she needed to, and that the day would no longer repeat.

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A loud angry yell rang out after the sound of a rooster’s crowing woke Xena, who sprung up to a sitting position back in the stable yet again. She let out a series of profanities as she threw around the hay that woke Gabrielle, who didn’t even get to say anything before the warrior got up in a huff and stormed away muttering to herself.

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XENA
The first day, everything seems normal…

Xena spoke as she laid in a pile of hay, going over the events that had taken place since her and Gabarielle’s arrival to the city, as she tried desperately to find what she must have been missing.

XENA
Well, except that Joxer gets killed. Then the day resets and I fix that, but then Argo gets killed. The third time I fail to stop the feud and the day repeats. So I find out all about the old man getting hit by the cart, and I save him. But doing that wasn’t enough and the fighting still breaks out anyway, which that time, gets Gabrielle gets killed.

Xena continued to think as she looked up at the ceiling.

XENA
So somehow, I’m supposed to save the old man, stop everyone else from getting killed, and make peace between the two houses. But that still doesn't work. So then, I decide I’m gonna find out every single, little, damn thing there is to know about these people, Because of that I save the old man, stop the fighting and then use the information I've got to make peace
between the houses.
(Irritated tone) But it still isn't enough.

Suddenly, the warrior sat up as an idea came to her.

XENA
I'm missing something. Something small. And I think I know what it is. Thanks.

Xena stood.

XEAN
I think I just needed to go over everything out loud.

Without another word, the warrior turned and hurried out of the stable, leaving Gabrielle and Joxer sitting on the floor with a blank stare on their faces as they both tried to process Xena’s very strange behavior. Unaware of the puzzling loop they had been stuck in. Or that the warrior may have finally solved it. But even believing that she now knew what she had to do to end the cycle once and for all, Xena would soon learn that actually being able to stop it would be a virtually impossible task.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Racing through the city, Xena moved as fast as she could to stop what she had discovered was the trigger to the day resetting time and time again. Finally, she arrived in a small garden where she spotted a young woman seated on a bench with a small bottle in her hand.

XENA
Hey, give me that vial.

Before the young woman knew what had happened, the warrior closed in and snatched the small container from her, giving the contents a quick sniff.

XENA
Night's bane. You're aware this stuff is deadly?

The young woman nodded slightly as she looked away sadly.

XENA
When did you take this?

?
Just after sunrise.

XENA
So, you're the one who's been causing all this trouble.

Seeing an unhappy expression on Xena’s face, the young woman didn’t say anything more, and instead just turned her eyes away with a defeated look before quickly leaving.

XENA
Hey, wait.

The warrior attempted to follow, but stopped when she heard someone behind her.

?
No, it's not her fault. It's mine.

Xena turned around to see a young man.

XENA
And you are?

?
Neron. And I’m afraid there's nothing you can do.

XENA
Why’s that?

NERON
Because her house is at the north end of town, and the stables you're in are at the south.

The warrior narrowed her eyes in suspicion at the young man.

XENA
And just how would you know about that?

NERON
Because like you, I’m fully aware of what’s been happening. So, no matter how fast you run…

XENA
I'll never get there in time to stop her.

Now realizing just what she was up against, the woman moved to sit on a nearby bench to think, as Neron sat at the other end.

XENA
Okay, Neron, you’re clearly aware of what’s been happening, so why don’t you fill me in here. Like why she took the poison.

NERON
Because we're in love. But our families hate each other, so we were forbidden from being together.

XENA
That must’ve been hard.

NERON
It was. But for a while we were still able to sneak away to see one another in secret.

Neron looked down sadly as he continued.

NERON
That was until we found out that her father was gonna make her
marry someone else.

Finally, Xena was beginning to put together how they had gotten to where they were.

XENA
So, she decided to kill herself.

NERON
(Sad tone) Yes. She didn’t know that I had planned for us to leave together and elope, And when I told her, she began to cry, telling me that she had already taken the Night's bane.

Neron shook his head.

NERON
I couldn't face the thought of going through life without her. So I prayed to Cupid for help. But when he came to me, he said that he couldn’t stop Hermia from dying tomorrow. But when he senses that our love was true, he granted me a single wish for anything.

Finally understanding what had happened, Xena already knew what the young man’s wish must have been.

XENA
And your wish was that tomorrow would never come.

NERON
Yes. Cupid said that until a hero could come and fix everything, the day would continue to reset every morning.

XENA
So why not just ask for help?

NERON
Well, frankly, I was kind of expecting someone like Hercules, or Sinbad or something and not a, umm…

Neron paused as he realized what he was about to say would very likely offend the one person who might finally be able to help him, and with a raised eyebrow, Xena finished his sentence for him.

XENA
A woman?

The man let out a slightly uncomfortable laugh as he apologized for potentially offending the warrior woman, who paid the comment no mind as things like that had stopped bothering her a long time ago, as Neron quickly moved the conversion forward.

NERON
Well, anyway. I'm not allowed to interfere, so I couldn’t really ask you for help to begin with.

The young man watched as Xena fell silent for a moment, as she began to think.

XENA
So, now I've got to save Casca, stop the duel, and keep Hermia from taking poison. And do it all right after the rooster crows.

NERON
It's impossible. No matter how fast you run, there just isn't enough time. No one person can pull all that off.

Xena stood up.

XENA
We'll see.

With that, Xena walked off with a renewed sense of determination for breaking the cycle for good.

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The next few repeating days Xena tried multiple methods of reaching Hermia before she could drink the poison, but each time was unsuccessful at preventing the young woman from taking her own life. So knowing she’d never be fast enough to reach Hermia before it was too late, The warrior decided that it was time for a change in strategy. A few more days repeated as Xena looked over every inch of the town, taking measurements of buildings, along with various angles between them and other items, all the while ignoring the chaos around her, leaving Gabrielle and Joxer to fend for themselves. Knowing that getting involved in such things wouldn’t make any difference before everything was ready anyway.

XENA
Alright. That should do it.

Xena stood in the center of town as Gabrielle walked over to her with a defeated look on her face.

GABRIELLE
This is horrible. So many people dead. And for what?

XENA
Don’t worry I’m gonna fix all of this.

The bard looked at the taller woman.

GABRIELLE
How? Even if we do stop this violence, It’s not like you can bring back all the people that were killed today.

XENA
You’re right, Gabrielle. I can’t bring them back. But I can stop them all from dying.

The bard gave Xena a confused look as she watched the woman walk away with purpose.

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The rooster crowed as Joxer casually whistled his “Joxer the mighty” tune while making his way to the stables. He just made it to the barn door, when it suddenly flew open and smacked him in the face, knocking him down, as Xena came flying out of the building.

XENA
Rise and shine, Joxer. Raise and shine.

Xena ran into town and launched her chakram at a building, sending it ricocheting throughout the city as she continued to run.

CASCA
Hey, my hat!

The old man shouted as Xena’s chakram came flying by and knocked his hat off, causing him to stop to pick it up before he could step into the path of the runaway cart as it sped by, and the weapon continued on its path.

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Elsewhere Hermia lifted the bottle of poison to her lips to drink when the warrior’s chakram came flying by and shattered the vile the young woman was holding, shocking her as she let out a small surprised scream and Neron ran in.

NERON
Hermia.

The two embraced as Xena dropped from the roof above and caught her chakram as it flew by her, and after giving it a little twirl on her finger, holstered it to her hip before turning to walk away.

XENA
Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a feud to end.

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Not long after, Xena stood a few feet away from the two house leaders after having used the same diplomatic approach she had before, as the two men clasped hands in peace as the crowd cheered.

NERON
Because of you, Xena, I think now I'll be able to ask Hermia's father for her hand in marriage.

The warrior smiled as she and Gabrielle stood looking at the now peaceful townspeople.

XENA
Something tells me that now you won’t need to worry about what his answer will be.

GABRIELLE
Or Hermia’s.

Neron smiled.

NERON
Thank you, Xena. Now, we all finally have a tomorrow to look forward to.

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The rooster crowed as the sun rose and Xena rolled over, her eyes still closed before she heard the barn door open and Joxer shout as he walked inside.

JOXER
Rise and shine, everyone, rise and shine.

GABRIELLE
(Flat tone) I'll rise, I refuse to shine.

Hearing those words caused the warrior’s eyes to shoot open as she sprung up to a sitting position.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) No. That was supposed to have stopped it. I fixed everything. It’s never gonna end.

JOXER
Yeah, well I got us breakfast…

Ignoring the unhappy comment, Joxer reached into his helmet that he was carrying and pulled out one of the items.

JOXER
Turnips.

XENA
Turnips?

The dark-haired woman quickly stood.

XENA
Did you say turnips?

Xena moved to where Joxer was standing and looked into his helmet to see a whole bundle of the root vegetable. Never being so happy to see a turnip in her life, the warrior hugged Joxer.

XENA
You brought us turnips. Oh, you beautiful, beautiful man.

JOXER
Huh, who knew you liked turnips so much.

GABRIELLE
Xena, are you all right? What's going on?

The warrior let Joxer go as she grabbed a couple of the turnips from his helmet and turned toward the blonde.

XENA
Life, Gabrielle, life! Life is going on, at last!

Xena pulled the bard close.

XENA
Gabrielle, you know if there's one thing I’ve learned from coming here is that you've gotta, seize the day! 'Cause, who knows? Tomorrow may never come.
GABRIELLE
Um, sure?

The bard eyed Xena in confusion for a moment before they saw Joxer have a hammer land on his head and watched him fall face down on the barn floor, as the stable hand looked down from above.

EDOS
Oh no, not again.

The pair of women burst out laughing for a bit before making sure that Joxer was okay.

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Soon after, the trio along with Argo, were all standing at the city’s entrance. Deciding to part ways, Xena and Gabrielle said their goodbyes to Joxer until when they would undoubtedly meet up again. And after Xena pulled the bard into her place behind her in Argo’s saddle, the two rode away from the town that was now free to move forward with their lives, just like the warrior and bard as they moved down the road toward whatever lay in their coming days together.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

In a typically calm and serene spot, a ruckus broke out as a group of hooligans ran amuck in a temple dedicated to one of the Greek people's many gods. They hooted and hollered as they jumped all over, and trashed the place before finally running outside laughing, and as they scurried away, one of the vandals left behind a scribbled message in paint on the temple wall, before following his companions. Suddenly, there was a flash of light as the god to who the temple was dedicated to appeared and walked up to the messages left on the walls.

GRAFFITI
Xena rocks! Aphrodite blows! ELECT XENA GOD. XENA RULES! XENA'S DA BOMB.

The goddess scowled as she looked at the rest of her trashed temple.

APHRODITE
Delinquent losers! I've got half a mind to hit you with-

?
A love bolt?

The goddess turned around as another flash of light filled the room before fading to reveal another god.

?
(Joking tone) Well, they certainly made a mess in here, didn’t they?

APHRODITE
(Irritated tone) Not now Ares, I’m so not in the mood.

The god of war smirked.

ARES
(Lighthearted tone) Hey, don’t get mad at me.
You know what your problem is.

APHRODITE
Duh! Your little Xena!

Ares made a buzzer noise.

ARES
Nope. The answer you're looking for here, is actually her little bard friend, Gabrielle.

Aphrodite scowled as she motioned to the warrior’s name that still adorned her walls.

APHRODITE
(Irritated tone) Well in case you forgot how to read, it’s Xena’s name that's plastered all over my temple, not her little blonde friend.

ARES
True. But you see, while I made Xena the warrior she is today, she made the legend. Clearly, you haven’t read those so-called stories she writes about the woman. "A warrior who fights for the common person." The things in those stories, you'd think she was a goddess. And soon enough, when people think of love, it’s not gonna be Aphrodite they think of. It’ll be Xena.

APHRODITE
(Angry tone) Xena?!

ARES
Don't blame her. It's Gabrielle and her busy little quill that's your problem.

Ares smirked.

ARES
So, what are you gonna do about it?

Aphrodite didn’t say another word, as she saw red and disappeared in a huff, leaving the god of war to let out a satisfied chuckle to himself, before he too vanished from the temple in a flash of light.

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Near a small wooded area, far off of any marked trails, Gabrielle sat on a rock as she watched Xena do some routine maintenance on her armor and weapons. They had been traveling for quite some time since the warrior had solved the mystery of the town that was stuck reliving the same day again and again, and have had many exciting adventures since. The blonde rummaged through her satchel that held her writing supplies as she felt it might be a good time to document some of Xena’s latest heroic exploits.

GABRIELLE
Ah, I love starting a new scroll. The feel of it in your hands.
They look, so clean. So perfectly empty. The way it crinkles the first time you open it. And that smell. It's just a special, untouched scent.

Gabrielle sniffed the blank paper before holding it out toward Xena.

GABRIELLE
Here, try.

Xena sniffed at the paper, as a light that went unnoticed by both women flashed behind the bard as Aphrodite appeared, but chose to remain unseen to mortal eyes.

XENA
It smells like musty old leather to me.

GABRIELLE
Maybe to the non-creative person.

The blonde brought the scroll back to her lap to begin writing.

GABRIELLE
Now, where to start with our last adventure?

XENA
Don't you ever get tired of just writing down what I do all the time?

Gabrielle shrugged.

GABRIELLE
Not really. Why?

XENA
No reason. Just thought it might be more fun for you to come up with some of your own characters or adventures.

GABRIELLE
You mean fiction? Well, I thought about trying that, but I’m not really sure if I could do it.

XENA
Sure you could.

The bard smiled.

GABRIELLE
You think so?

XENA
Won’t know ‘til you try. Give it a shot.

Xena laid down on one of the blankets they had spread out.

XENA
And make someone else the hero for a change. Now keep it down, I’m taking a nap.

Gabrielle smiled to herself as the dark-haired woman rolled over and pulled a blanket over her to go to sleep.

GABRIELLE
Sleep well, Xena.

The bard then stood up and moved a bit further from the warrior to make sure she wouldn’t disturb her, before finding a comfy patch of grass to sit in and laid her scroll over her lap to begin writing. Aphrodite followed, watching the young woman as she dipped her quill into the ink and began to write a new exciting adventure that had begun to take shape in her mind.

GABRIELLE
Xena had gone fishing. The lone warrior, Gabrielle, awoke with a jerk, as five barbarians rode out of the woods. Twirling her trusty staff, she delivered kicks of fury.

Gabrielle paused for a moment, as she found a whole new way of making her writing more exciting.

GABRIELLE
Hey, this fiction stuff is pretty fun.

Meanwhile, a smirk appeared on Aphrodite’s face as the goddess got an idea, and with just a wiggle of her finger infused the bard’s scroll with some magic.

APHRODITE
Oh, yeah, a lot of fun.

And with that the goddess disappeared, leaving Gabrielle to write a tale that the young woman would never forget.

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The next morning, Gabrielle was sound asleep until she was jarred awake by the sound of yelling. Her eyes opened and she saw a group of barbarians had found their camp. Quickly, the bard grabbed her staff as she stood and called out for Xena.

GABRIELLE
Xena! We've got company!

The bard easily blocked, and dodged the oncoming attacks for several moments before realizing that Xena still hadn't joined in the fight.

GABRIELLE
A little help here, Xena! Hey, wake up! Xena!

Still not getting any response from Xena, the bard continued to fend off her attackers before finally growing tired of waiting for the warrior's help and knocked one of the barbarians away and planted her feet firmly on the ground with a scowl.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly Irritated tone) That’s it, you asked for it!

Then using her staff for leverage, and with shockingly little effort, the bard leapt up and began rapidly kicking her assailants that had surrounded her again and again. After knocking the men down, Gabrielle landed back on the ground where she then began twirling her staff in her hands at a virtually inhuman speed, before raising it above her head while still spinning and jumping straight up. There the rotating staff acted as a propeller and carried the bard through the air as she unleashed a series of kicks to drop any unfortunate barbarian that came across her path. Gabrielle had just knocked out another one of their attackers when she noticed their leader standing over Xena’s bundle of blankets. He raised his blade to impale the warrior, and the bard knew she needed to act fast to save the woman. So without even thinking about it, Gabrielle proceeded to perform a series of multiple back-flips toward the man before landing right next to the blankets and bent over backwards just as the barbarian leader brought his sword down. But incredibly, instead of running the bard through, the blade simply just bounced off of her toned stomach as though she were wearing thick, plated armor. Just for a moment, the barbarian looked on in shock as he regained his slight loss of balance from the unexpected resistance. Suddenly amidst the commotion, Xena’s blanket finally began to move. The covers slid down and the bard was met with a very unexpected sight as she saw Joxer lying there instead of the warrior woman, who screamed as he saw the barbarian standing over him with weapons in hand. The Barbarian still being thrown off, Gabrielle took the opening and sprung upright once again to land a hard head butt right between the barbarian leader’s eyes, knocking him out as he fell flat on his back.
GABRIELLE
Ow!

The bard rubbed her now sore forehead, having not thought the move through, before looking down at her midsection that had gone completely unscathed despite being struck with a sword. Not finding any logic in that, Gabrielle’s thoughts shifted to other things she noticed that didn’t make sense as she heard Joxer shout after the fleeing men.

JOXER
And don't come back!

GABRIELLE
Joxer? What are you doing here?

The man looked at her and shrugged.

JOXER
Don’t look at me. I was staying at an inn last night. No clue how I woke up here.

The bard ignored Joxer’s answer as her thoughts had moved on to the other unexplainable events that had just taken place.

GABRIELLE
Did you see that?! Back flips! I don't do back flips. And my stomach…

Joxer poked at the bard's mid-section, having witnessed the young woman go unaffected by the sword attack against her bare flesh.

JOXER
Do you have armour on, under there?

Again The blonde didn’t hear her friend as she finally realized that something, or rather someone was missing.

GABRIELLE
Hold on. Where's Xena?

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Gabrielle looked around for the missing warrior for a moment as she called the woman’s name to no reply.

GABRIELLE
She’s gone.

JOXER
Mayne, she went to get some breakfast or something.

GABRIELLE
No. If she had, she wouldn’t have gone that far. And look, Argo’s gone too.

The bard thought for a moment before remembering something.

GABRIELLE
Wait a minute.

She walked over to where her satchel containing her writing supplies sat and pulled out the scroll she had been writing last, before opening it to read it aloud.

GABRIELLE
"Xena had gone...the lone warrior, Gabrielle...five
barbarians...she started twirling her trusty staff,
delivering kicks of such fury...deflected the thrust
of a sword with her mighty abs."

The bard paused to look up at Joxer.

GABRIELLE
I wrote this. Everything that’s happened this morning is right in this scroll that I wrote earlier.

JOXER
Whoa, whoa, whoa, So you;re you saying, anything you write in there comes true? Excuse me while I laugh.

Joxer laughed at the ridiculous idea as Gabrielle gave him an annoyed look.

GABRIELLE
Okay. Then let’s test my theory.

The blonde picked up her staff.

GABRIELLE
Here, catch.

She tossed her staff to the man who caught and looked at it curiously.

JOXER
What am I supposed to do with this?

GABRIELLE
Just hold it for a minute.

Gabrielle then moved to sit on a rock and layed the scroll over her lap to write something. Suddenly Joxer began to smack himself in the face with the staff several times before falling back.

JOXER
Ow!

He sat up, rubbing his forehead and looked at the staff still in his hand before quickly tossing it away from him and turning his attention to Gabrielle.

JOXER
Why'd I do that?

GABRIELLE
Because that’s what I wrote you did.

The bard picked the piece of paper up from her lap and she looked at it in amazement as she realized what was happening.

GABRIELLE
I can write anything.and it comes true.

Gabrielle smiled as she lowered the parchment and her mind began to flood with countless Ideas for what she could do with this unexpected power that she now held.

GABRIELLE
I don’t know where this magic scroll came from, but just think of all the good I can do with this. In the right hands this could be a gift to mankind.
Xena will be very proud when she comes back from fishing.

JOXER
Fishing?

GABRIELLE
I wrote that she went fishing.

JOXER
Okay but why'd you write to bring me here?
Gabrielle looked back at the paper and quickly scanned what she had written, not remembering mentioning Joxer in her story at all before returning her focus to the man with a confused expression.

GABRIELLE
I didn’t.

JOXER
Let me see.

The bard handed over the scroll for Joxer to go over.

JOXER
Okay "Gabrielle, appeared with a guy with the heart of a lion, soul of a warrior, Xena had gone fishing and Gabrielle awoke with a jerk.”

Confused, Joxer reread the last sentence.

JOXER
“Gabrielle awoke with a jerk." That's a funny phrase. Huh, I can't
find anything that mentions me in here. I guess I must've come here on my own.
(Talking to himself) Though I’m not sure why I don’t remember coming here.

He handed the scroll back to the bard.

JOXER
Anyway, what do we do now?

Gabrielle took a moment to think.

GABRIELLE
Well, the best thing about stories is they can be anything we want them to be. Anything can happen. Even happy endings. Which now can truly happen.

Gabrielle smiled at the thought as a couple of women came walking by and the bard recognized them as being priestesses’

GABRIELLE
Excuse me. Are you priestesses'?

PRIESTESS 1
Yes. We’re sisters of the temple of Gaea.

GABRIELLE
Is there anything we can do to help you?

PRIESTESS 1
We're collecting goods for our orphans, things we can sell in our shop in town.

Gabrielle moved to go through her pack again as Joxer began putting himself down for anything he could donate, but both came up empty-handed as the bard and Xena always traveled light and other than the warrior’s weapons, didn’t particularly keep much of real monetary value. The same being true for Joxer, the two looked at each other for a moment before returning their attention to the priestess as the bard got an idea.

GABRIELLE
Unfortunately, we don’t have anything on us, but If you wait just a moment…

She grabbed her scroll and quill and spun Joxer around to use his back as a surface to write on as she quickly jotted something down.

GABRIELLE
I think you're going to get a surprise gift, right about… now.

Suddenly, out of nowhere an unknown man walked out of the nearby bushes and approached the priestess, giving them what was clearly a very expensive sword, leaving the women stunned as without another word, the man walked off.

PRIESTESS #1
This will provide for our orphans for years!

PRIESTESS #2
It's a miracle. Thank you.

Gabrielle smiled.

GABRIELLE
Don’t mention it. I’m happy I could help.

With that Gabrielle and Joxer walked away.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Elsewhere, trouble began to stir as the man who had given the priestess the sword ran into several guards.

GUARD
You! Give me back my kinsman's sword!

MAN
I can’t. I gave it away.

The man paused, suddenly baffled by his own actions.

MAN
Wait, why did I do that?

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Meanwhile, not far away, the barbarians who had been run off by Gabrielle earlier were met with an unexpected guest as the goddess, Aphridite appeared before them.

APHRODITE
(Condescending tone) Aww did the little girl and her stick scare the big, scary men?

The leader of the barbarians scowled at the comment.

BARBARIAN LEADER
We are barbarians. We fear nothing and fight with the heart of a lion.

Aphrdite laughed.

APHRODITE
To me It looks more like you run with the feet of a chicken.

BARBARIAN LEADER
We are not chicken.

The goddess smiled as she knew she could get the men to do anything she wanted without even using any of her godly powers.

APHRODITE
Then why don’t you prove it, and show the goddess of love just what you’re capable of?

BARBARIAN LEADER
Yes, my goddess.

APHRODITE
Good. Now get back on your horses and go back after her.

With a quick salute and a “Yes ma’am” to the goddess, the group of barbarians rode off to search for Gabrielle once again. leaving the bard to very soon learn that the things she was writing, no matter how harmless or good-intentioned they may have been, were about to have some very unintended consequences.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Gabrielle and Joxer made their way into a busy tavern, where they found an empty table to sit at as a server came to take their order. The bard then smiled as she wrote something on the scroll as their food was brought to the table.

TAVERN OWNER
Here you go.

JOXER
How much will that be?

The tavern owner smiled.

TAVERN OWNER
Don’t be silly, your meal is completely free.

The tavern owner then turned to address the rest of the patrons with a smile.

TAVERN OWNER
And all drinks are on the house.

The bard smiled at her handy work until the ceiling began to leak heavily.

PATRON 1
What the?

PATRON 2
Wait a minute, it’s mead.

The tavern erupted in cheers as most of the patrons began filling their mugs with the free-flowing drink, while Jover took a more direct approach and just leaned back with his mouth open to drink straight from the source.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I think I’m gonna have to be a bit more careful with my wording from now on.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Some time later, the roof had stopped leaking booze, and most of the tavern goers had drunk themselves into an inebriated state. Gabrielle and Joxer had eaten and drank their fill and the blonde stood from her seat.

GABRIELLE
Well, time's a-wasting. We've got a lot of good to do today, Joxer, a lot of good.

Joxer smiled before downing the last of his drink and getting up to follow the bard toward the door. But as they were just about to leave, they heard a commotion behind them. The two turn around to see that in their drunken state, some of the patrons had begun to cause trouble.

GABRIELLE
You know? There's always one drunk who spoils
it for everyone.

JOXER
One drunk?

Before Gabrielle knew what happened, an all out fight had broken out across the whole tavern.

GABRIELLE
Wait, this wasn't supposed to happen.

The bard ducked out of the way of a chair that was thrown her way, as one man was slammed onto the bar and another smashed a full mug onto someone else’s head.

GABRIELLE
This is chaos!

The fighting continued to escalate when a small unseen light flashed and Aphrodite materialized sitting casually on the bar and smiled to herself as she kept her presence hidden and watched the mayhem unfolding around her.

JOXER
Well at least it can't get any worse, right?

?
(Angry tone) Where are they?!

Hearing the sudden shout, Joxer and Gabrielle turned their attention to the door as they saw the barbarians they had encountered earlier storm into the tavern.

JOXER
I take that back. It just got so much worse.

The barbarian leader scanned the chaotic scene before spotting the bard and her friend.

BARBARIAN LEADER
(Angry tone) You! You think you can make fools of us?!

Joxer put his hands up defensively as the barbarian leader walked toward them.

JOXER
(Nervous tone) Hey now. I’m sure this is just one, big misunderstanding.

BARBARIAN LEADER
(Angry tone) Do you know who you’re dealing with?!

The man drew his sword as he and his men closed in. Meanwhile Gabrielle quickly got her scroll.

BARBARIAN LEADER
(Angry tone) We are barbarians! And we will…

The young woman hastily began to write, finishing just as the leader of the barbarians raised his weapon to strike Joxer down.

BARBARIAN LEADER
...go west. Yes. We will go west.

Joxer felt a rush of relief and slight disbelief as the leader of the barbarians suddenly lowered his weapon and left the tavern with his men to head west. The problem appeared solved until Gabrielle heard someone shout that the barbarians were headed toward the orphanage and the young woman hastily wrote for them to change direction. She again hoped to have gotten anyone out of harm's way of the group, when she heard someone else yell that a village was now in the barbarian’s path.

GABRIELLE
Okay. Minor setback.

She wrote again.

GABRIELLE
"They turned east."

Elsewhere, the barbarians did just that, and shortly after, Gabrielle heard another person in the tavern yell.

MAN
Now they're heading for Akanacia!

The bard sat back in her seat in frustration.

GABRIELLE
(Talking to herself annoyed) Oh, come on. How are you people even getting this information?

Aphrodite laughed as she watched the young woman try to come up with a way to move the barbarians somewhere that wouldn’t put any innocent people in danger. She tried writing several other ways of getting rid of them, but each time found an unintentional flaw with what she had written, Until out of desperation she wrote them into a cave where they all fell into a deep sleep which finally seemed to do the trick.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

GABRIELLE
(Exasperated tone) Finally!

The bard slouched forward over the table.

JOXER
(Sarcasm) So, this is all the good you wanted to do, huh?

GABRIELLE
(Annoyed tone) Don’t start with me. I am not writing another word.

Aphrodite laughed in triumph as she disappeared, leaving a very disheartened bard in her wake.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

GABRIELLE
I don't get it. I mean sure, my writing has always been really vivid.

Some time later Gabrielle and Joxer walked through the town as the bard tried to figure out why everything she was writing seemed to be going wrong.

GABRIELLE
I must be missing something.

JOXER
Well, maybe it needs a little work. You know, like editing, or something.

GABRIELLE
That’s it, Joxer. I'm not editing my work. All I have to do is be more careful before I actually write something down.

The woman smiled as she found a renewed sense of hope in her new power.

GABRIELLE
Now that I understand the true power of this scroll, I can end hunger, disease. And even… war.

She smiled as a new, wonderful idea filled her mind and she began to write once again.

GABRIELLE
"The will of mortals won out and war lost all its power."

Suddenly, Gabrielle and Joxer heard a loud scream as a figure fell from the sky and landed flat on the ground in front of them.

GABRIELLE
Ares?

The god of war scurried to his feet as he looked at his hands in a panic.

ARES
My powers! What happened to my powers?!

The god then saw Gabrielle and scowled.

ARES
(Angry tone) You! I don’t know how but this is your fault.

GABRIELLE
Wait a minute.

Ares glared at the bard as she quickly tried to fix yet another problem she had inadvertently created.

GABRIELLE
Just give me a minute. I can fix this. Um, let’s try, "The force that enchanted the scroll lost its powers."

The young woman finished writing and she, Joxer, and Ares heard another scream before the god of war felt something drop on top of him, knocking him to the ground as the bard began to piece together what had happened.

GABRIELLE
Aphrodite.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Gabrielle and Joxer stood looking at the pair of gods that were laying in a heap on the ground in front of them, squabbling like any pair of mortal siblings would.

APHRODITE
Ow that landing was so not cool.

ARES
(Irritated tone) Would you stop complaining and get off me?

Ignoring the god of war, Aphrodite gasped in horror as she looked down at her hand.

APHRODITE
My nail! I broke a nail. I just got these done.

Ares growled to himself as he shoved his sister off of him and stood. Getting an unhappy glare from the goddess of love as he expanded his focus to Gabrielle and Joxer.

ARES
(Irritated tone) Okay I don’t know what’s going on here, but someone had better start explaining and fast.

APHRODITE
Hey, don’t look at me, I can’t control what little miss bard there writes.

The goddess stood as all eyes turned to her.

ARES
(Irritated tone) And just what is that supposed to mean?

The goddess shrugged casually as she explained the spell she had placed on Gabrielle’s scroll.

ARES
(Irritated tone) Are you out of your mind? You gave this blonde harpy the powers of destiny?

GABRIELLE
Hey.

APHRODITE
(irritated tone) No, I enchanted a scroll. I don't know why you’re suddenly acting so surprised. This whole thing was your idea to begin with.

ARES
(irritated tone) Oh no, you’re not pinning this one on me. I wanted you to deal with her so we could get Xena out of the way.

APHRODITE
Exsqueeze me. I’ll have you know that my plan worked... Kinda.

GABRIELLE
Wait a minute.

Gabrielle cut into the arguing god's conversation.

GABRIELLE
(irritated tone) You enchanted my scroll because you wanted Xena out of the way? Out of the way for what?

APHRODITE
Well, Ares has some army ready to attack some valley somewhere.
He knew Xena would try and stop his plan. So to make sure she couldn’t, he clearly manipulated me into getting mad at you, which he figured would also keep Xena distracted.

ARES
(Condescending tone) Look at you figuring things out all out by yourself.

The goddess scowled at her brother.

APHRODITE
(Annoyed tone) Can it “Are”. We wouldn’t even be in this mess if you could stand up to one measly mortal woman.

Aphrodite softened her expression as she returned her attention to Gabrielle.

APHRODITE
Look, Sweetpea, just give me back my powers, then I can unzap the scroll and set everything back to normal..

ARES
No, you need to write mine back in first. That army's waiting for me to give them a signal that Xena's gone.

The goddess glared at the other god.

APHRODITE
(Sarcasm) Yeah, threatening war. That’ll definitely get her to give your powers back

ARES
Okay. What if you give me my powers back, and I promise to call off the attack?

Aphrodite snickered, not believing her brother for a second.

APHRODITE
(Sarcasm) Pigs can fly.

Ares looked at Aphrodite.

ARES
You can.

The goddess glared at him as Joxer spoke up.

JOXER
Wait. If you undo the scroll, Xena can come back and the army won't attack.

GABRIELLE
That’s right.

The bard wrote in the enchanted scroll "Aphrodite is as she
was before." Suddenly the goddess disappeared and fell from above, landing on top of Ares again.

GABRIELLE
Okay, that didn’t work.

ARES
(irritated tone) Get Off!

GABRIELLE
What if I fill the scroll completely? Will the curse be broken?

APHRODITE
(Sarcasm) Oh, so now it's a curse. Before, it was a gift.

The two gods got back to their feet as aphrodite continued.

APHRODITE
But to answer your question, no. Once you run out of room, that's it.
Everything will stay the way you wrote it.

Joxer thought for a moment, before coming up with a suggestion to get them out of their odd predicament.

JOXER
Why not just write, "Everything is as it was before."

APHRODITE
That could send us all back to being in diapers and you'll
go back under your rock.

The goddess looked at the bard.

APHRODITE
Did you write him here?

GABRIELLE
Not intentionally.

Ares grabbed the scroll and looked it over for a moment before chuckling as he read the line he assumed brought Joxer there.

ARES
"Gabrielle awoke with a jerk."

Aphrodite laughed.

JOXER
I don't get it.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Later, Gabrielle, Joxer, Ares and Aphrodite looked over the scroll as they tried to deconstruct everything the bard had written in order to figure out the correct wording that would fix the chaos the enchanted scroll caused.

GABRIELLE
I have to deconstruct the story, starting from the beginning which means I have to bring Xena back, first.

ARES
Oh. How about something like, "Xena rides in at the head of an army."

GABRIELLE
That’s no good. We could end up with an army of ants, or children or Harpies.

JOXER
Whoa, whoa, whoa. I got it. We can just describe her.

GABRIELLE
Good idea.

The bard began to write as the others looked on.

SCROLL
Suddenly there was the arrival of the woman.

ARES
Ooo leather. Mention the leather.

Gabrielle eyed the god for a moment. Not appreciating how excited he sounded about that before moving on and continuing to write.

SCROLL
Wearing leather. With long, black hair, carrying her chakram.

JOXER
Wait. Does the scroll know what a chakram is?

GABRIELLE
Fair.

The bard crossed out the part about the Chakram and revised the sentence.

SCROLL
Carrying the whip of Xena.

Suddenly the group heard the sound of a whip crack and looked up to see a dark-haired, leather clad woman.

GABRIELLE
Minya?

MINYA
I'm here. I don't know why, but I'm here anyway.

ARES
Who’s she?

GABRIELLE
This is our friend, Minya. And…

The bard paused as she sighed, remembering something.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly defeated tone) She has Xena's whip.

ARES
(Irritated tone) Great. Now what?

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Later Gabrielle sat holding her head in her hands as she watched the now mortal Aphrodite and Ares getting drunk, not being used to booze having any effect on them as they drank from the ale that was still flowing from the roof from the last time the bard and Joxer were at that tavern.

APHRODITE
Mmm, you know this is one thing I like about being mortal.

The typically proper goddess took another drink from her mug before letting out a loud belch as Minya laughed.

MINYA
You know, my boyfriend, Hower, he thinks that the Goddess of Love is just so beautiful and perfect. Wait 'til he hears you're just as plain as dirt on a wagon wheel, just like me.

Minya gave Aphrodite a firm pat on the back that caused the goddess to spill some of her drink and Ares laughed. Meanwhile Gabrielle was spiraling deeper into self doubt that she could fix everything.

GABRIELLE
Nothing’s working. What am I gonna do? I'm supposed to be this great bard with all these wonderful stories. And now I can't even write a happy ending
without screwing it up.

The bard laid her head on the table they were all sitting at as Joxer tried to cheer her up.

JOXER
Sure you can. And if you ask me, I think your stories are beautiful, and besides not everything you wrote turned out to be a disaster. Remember what you did for the Sisters of Gaea? Giving them that valuable sword?

Suddenly the tavern door flew open as a man marched inside.

GUARD
(Angry tone) I’m looking for a man who stole my kinsman's sword.

JOXER
He could be talking about any old sword. Right?

The man walked further inside and for whatever reason made his way over to where the bard, her friend and the gods were sitting.

GUARD
You. I would like to ask you a couple of questions.

GABRIELLE
Uh sure. What's your name?
Hastily, Gabrielle wrote for the man to go to the nearby caves, just as she had done for multiple others at that point when she couldn’t think of anything else to do.

ARES
Boy, I bet those caves are starting to get pretty full.

The young woman shot the god a disapproving look.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) Shut it, Ares.

Gabrieelle sighed.

GABRIELLE
Maybe instead of trying to bring Xena here, we can just go find her instead. I mean there can’t be that many places around here to go fishing. Can there?

The bard stood and made her way out of the tavern, leaving Joxer and the powerless gods sitting at the table as Aphrodite fiddled with her hair that, to the goddess’ dismay, was rapidly losing its usual volume.

APHRODITE
Why won't it stay up?

Aphrodite huffed in frustration.

APHRODITE
Basic hair care was never this much of a drag as a goddess.

JOXER
I think it looks good on ya.

The goddess smiled.

APHRODITE
Flattery will get you everywhere, keep going.

JOXER
Um, actually your goddessness I was wondering if I could ask you something.

APHRODITE
Okay?

JOXER
Um, I… or well you see there's this guy and he really loves this girl, but this girl doesn't even know that-

APHRODITE
Hey the love goddess is off the clock. In case you haven’t noticed I’m dealing with my own problems here.

Joxer lowered his eyes and the goddess couldn’t help but feel for the man.

APHRODITE
Fine Poetry and if that doesn't work presents.

JOXER
Presents and poetry huh.

APHRODITE
Okay?

JOXER
Yeah.

APHRODITE
Good. Now, give me some space.

Joxer smiled as he stood to walk away before spotting the enchanted scroll that Gabrielle had mistakenly left behind and got an idea before leaving the table.

APHRODITE
(Thinking to herself) Huh, someone should really tell that poor sap he doesn't stand a chance with little miss bard. Especially if she’s able to get warrior babe to come back.

The goddess shrugged.

APHRODITE
(Thinking to herself) Oh well. Thanks to blondie, it’s not my problem anymore.

The goddess, her brother, and Minya made their way outside where suddenly there was a commotion as a bunch of passersby began to hoot and holler. The trio looked toward a crowd that had begun to quickly gather to see three Gabrielle's dancing who were completely nude.

GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) Joxer!

Gabrielle stormed over to the man and snatched the scroll from the man as he shrugged.

GABRIELLE
(irritated tone) You’re unbelievable. I put the scroll down for a minute and you pull something like this.

JOXER
(lying) Oh, I-I, well, I was just trying to write a limerick. You know to cheer you up a little.

The bard scowled as she read what the man had written.

GABRIELLE
"A warrior, Joxer the Mighty,
Asked a boon from the god, Aphrodite.
And what a surprise,
He saw with love's eyes,
Three times-"

JOXER
I kinda had a little trouble there. Couldn’t think of another word that ends in "ite"?

GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) You wrote on the scroll?!

She swatted him several times.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) What does "love's eyes" have to do with me?

JOXER
(Nervous tone) Well it's just… umm…

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) Forget it.

The bard swiftly jotted down what had clearly become her coverall solution for getting rid of any of the unwanted guests that had inadvertently come their way because of the scroll.

GABRIELLE
To the caves!

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

After walking for some time, Gabrielle, along with Joxer, Ares, and Aphrodite, all stood at the entrance to a large cave.

JOXER
Is this where you sent everyone?

GABRIELLE
I think so. I mean, these are the only caves I know of around here.

ARES
Okay. But why are we here?

The bard shrugged.

GABRIELLE
I was hoping it might get some kind of idea for how to fix everything.

The god of war scoffed.

ARES
(Sarcasm) Right, because where we are will make any difference in you fixing everything.

GABRIELLE
(Slight;y irritated mumbled sarcasm) And you complaining will?

Ares shot the young woman an unhappy look, but was unable to respond before she began walking further into the cave.

GABRIELLE
Now come on. Unless you want to stay mortal.

The god growled to himself as he reluctantly followed the bard, with Aphrodite and Joxer also in tow.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The foursome walked through the cave for a while as Gabrielle tried to think of how she was supposed to come up with just the right thing she should write that would put everything back as it should be. She looked at the scroll in her hands as she walked.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) What am I supposed to write that’ll fix all of this?

The bard looked up as she sighed to herself.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I wish Xena were here. She’d probably know what to do. Well, hopefully, she’s enjoying her day of fishing at least.

Lost in her thoughts as she came to a cross-section, Gabrielle was caught off guard when, out of nowhere, someone ran by her and snatched the enchanted scroll from her hand before disappearing down another corridor.

GABRIELLE
The scroll!

Quickly, the young woman raced after the man, leaving the other three behind.

JOXER
Hey, wait.

Following the same direction the bard and the scroll thief went, Joxer soon found himself standing in front of multiple pathways. He stood there for a moment as he tried to decide which way he should go, before choosing one at random to venture into further. He ran for a bit until finding a new open area and stopped dead in his tracks and stood there with a big dopey grin on his face as he found the trio of naked, dancing Gabrielles. Unaware that right behind him the scroll thief had emerged from a different corridor only to have the scroll thief taken from him by one of the barbarians that had been sent to those caves.

GABRIELLE
Joxer, the scroll!

Having shown up just in time to see the item change hands, Gabrielle hurried after the barbarian, who ran into another tunnel.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The barbarian moved through the cave, taking several different pathways, losing Gabrielle in the process, before turning a corner to find Minya and Ares.

MINYA
Look, they're coming our way! Come on.

ARES
Me? I'm mortal. I might be killed.

MINYA
Gods!

She rolled her eyes in disbelief.

MINYA
Forget it. I’ll do it myself.

Suddenly, the barbarians were intercepted, when Gabrielle ran by and snatched the scroll. She then scurried around a corner and hid in a small crevasse as she knelt with a quill in hand and opened the scroll. Still unsure of what she should write, her thoughts again went to Xena and what the warrior would do in the situation.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) If I could only get Xena here, she would know what to do with this scroll. But no matter how I word it, this stupid scroll won't bring her back from wherever I inadvertently sent her.

Suddenly an Idea hit the young woman and she quickly began to write. After a moment, her quill had just finished a word when the barbarians came charging through the area. Gabrielle quickly dove out of the way as they ran through, with one of them grabbing the scroll on the way by.

JOXER
Gabrielle.

The bard stood as Joxer, Aphrodite, and Ares entered the corridor.

JOXER
We lost track of the scroll.

GABRIELLE
I had it. Then those barbarians took it again. I’m pretty sure they were heading back out of the caves.

JOXER
Then we better go after them.

The four moved to make their way out of the cave.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

JOXER
Now what? I don’t see those barbarians anywhere.

Before Gabrielle could answer, the three naked, dancing Gabrielles, Scaborus, and Minya all came dashing out of the cave behind them and ran over some hills before disappearing into the distance.

GABRIELLE
Don’t worry Joxer, before the barbarians took it, I was able to write something in the scroll that might finally solve everything. … I hope.

JOXER
Why? What'd you write?

The bard smiled.

GABRIELLE
You’ll see. But first…

She turned her attention to Ares.

GABRIELLE
Ares, we have got to catch up with your warrior friend, so we can call off his attack.

ARES
Well, I can't stop them as a mortal. When I get my powers back, I promise.

The young woman eyed the god, unsure if she should believe him or not.

ARES
I'm gonna punish Thallonius and his army in some painful, horrible way.

GABRIELLE
You know, innocent people are going to die.

ARES
Oh, yes, innocent people.

The bard scowled.

GABRIELLE
(Stern tone) Look! With or without you, we're gonna stop that army.

APHRODITE
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Who, exactly, is “We”?

JOXER
Wait a minute.

Joxer sniffed.

JOXER
Anyone else smell something?

He sniffed the air again.

JOXER
Is that fish?

A very disheveled Aphrodite scowled.

APHRODITE
(Annoyed tone) Lay off me, turkey! I'm new to this mortal hygiene thing!

Suddenly, the group heard a voice from nearby.

?
Hey, you guys looking for something?

Gabrielle turned around and smiled as she saw someone approaching.

GABRIELLE
Xena.

The warrior smiled as she made her way over to the bard and the others, pulling a large cart that was overflowing with fish behind her.

XENA
I took this off a peddler I just happened to run into not far from here.

The woman stopped and lowered the cart as she held up the enchanted scroll for Gabrielle to see.

XENA
He was being chased by barbarians, who were being chased by MInya and, three naked Gabrielles. She's still chasing them too.

She smirked as she continued and handed the young woman the rolled-up paper.

XENA
Oh, and I read the scroll, just so you know.

Gabrielle fiddled with the scroll in her hands as she looked sheepishly at the dark-haired warrior.

GABRIELLE
I guess I kind of messed things up, didn't I?

XENA
(Joking tone) You could say that.

Xena smirked.

XENA
(Joking tone) Interesting little limerick you wrote in there, by the way.

JOXER
Actually, that one was me.

Xena rolled her eyes.

XENA
Figures.

GABRIELLE
You know, I tried writing anything I could think of that would bring you back. I tried, “Xena goes to her number one friend.”

XENA
You sent me to visit a girl I knew when I was five. Or my first friend.

GABRIELLE
What about, “Xena rejoins the woman who brought her to a new life”?

XENA
It was a good walk to Amphipolis. Mom says hi and thanks for the fish, by the way.

GABRIELLE
I guess that one makes sense.

XENA
Interestingly, when I did begin to make my way back, I suddenly got this irresistible urge to go back to fishing. That was when I realized something strange was going on. I had gone all over to see almost everyone who ever meant anything to me.

The raven-haired woman looked lovingly into Gabrielle's eyes as she continued.

XENA
Everyone except for you. That's when I knew where I needed to be.

The bard smiled softly as she got lost in the warrior’s gaze for a moment until she and Xena heard Aphrodite speak up.

APHRODITE
Look, I really hate to be the one to break up, like, a major love-fest. I mean goddess of love here and all. But look at me!

The unhappy goddess stomped her foot as she got the warrior and bard’s attention and gestured to her unkempt, homely appearance.

APHRODITE
I'm clearly not built to be mortal! We have to fix this and get everything the way it should be.

JOXER
Yeah, and don’t forget stopping the valley from being attacked by that army.

The goddess waved off the comment.

APHRODITE
Yeah, sure. I guess that stuff too or whatever.

Xena sighed to herself at the reminder of how little the gods truly thought of mortals before carrying on.

XENA
Aphrodite, what were the exact words you used when you enchanted the scroll?

The goddess thought for a few seconds as she tried to recall what she had said after finding Gabrielle while she was writing.

APHRODITE
Um, I’m pretty sure it was “Lies will make the world go 'round, 'til truer
words are written down.”

XENA
So, in other words, the scroll has the power to take anything someone makes up and writes down into a reality. And the spell can only be broken if things that are written in it are completely true. So that means all we need to do is write the truth and everything should be fixed.

Gabrielle let out a small, annoyed huff at the ridiculously simplistic solution to get around the scroll, taking what was written out of context.

GABRIELLE
Okay, so how do we get rid of this warlord?

XENA
That’s simple. I'll take care of him. You just write down everything I do. But It has to be exactly what I’m doing. That means no embellishing, or taking creative liberties with how you write. It has to be exactly as you see it/ Got it?

GABRIELLE
Got it.

ARES
But how will we know if it worked?

XENA
If you get your powers back, then it worked.

GABRIELLE
Makes sense.

XENA
Good. Now let’s get to work.

Xena grabbed the wagon full of fish she had been pulling before and walked off to meet the enemy army she knew would be there soon. Meanwhile, Joxer looked toward Gabrielle and couldn’t help but notice a somewhat nervous expression on the bard’s face.

JOXER
What's wrong?

GABRIELLE
I'm not really all that good at writing action stuff.

Suddenly all eyes turned to the young woman in disbelief.

ARES
What? You follow Xena around all day and make almost all your stories about her. How is it possible to do that without writing action?

GABRIELLE
I don’t write what she does in a literal sense. I use metaphors.

JOXER
Metaphors?

GABRIELLE
Yeah. Stuff like, “Xena burst on the scene in a blaze of glory.” You know, things like that.

JOXER
Well, you do that now, and we'll be picking her up in a million pieces.

The sudden full weight of the potential types of disasters that could happen if she wasn’t careful fully sank in. Gabrielle looked at the scroll in her hands before turning her eyes toward Xena and knew that she needed to be sure to do exactly as the warrior said. Otherwise, it could spell certain doom for the woman.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

With the army approaching, the group moved to intercept them. Standing back from where the fight would soon take place, Gabrielle, Joxer, Ares, and Aphrodite looked on as Xena stood ready to take on the enemy alone. A quill in her hand, the bard prepared to document everything that was about to take place. In the hopes that Xena’s assumption of how to get around the spell put on the scroll.

XENA
Get ready, Gabrielle. Here they come.

Just moments later, the army came into view and Xena prepared to fight. But instead of drawing her sword or tossing out her chakram, the warrior reached into the cart beside her and grabbed a large fish. She hurled it at the army, knocking down one of the men before grabbing another from the pile. Meanwhile, Joxer dictated what was happening as Gabrielle’s eyes were focused on the scroll.

JOXER
Xena smacks one guy with a pike. Another with a trout. Then she knocks down two more with the swing of a big bass.

Suddenly, the dark-haired warrior pulled an octopus from the cart and used its tentacles to whip a couple of the soldiers before tossing it at another, where its suction cups latched onto the man's face. Causing him to frantically try pulling it off as he ran around for a few moments before crashing into another soldier.

JOXER
Ooo, that octopus came out of nowhere. She must have thrown that just for the halibut.

Joxer laughed as everyone else in earshot just rolled their eyes.

ARES
Actually, you should write, “Xena hit the warrior with a squid.”

JOXER
No, that was an octopus.

The god gave Joxer a slightly annoyed look.

ARES
Hey, I think I know a squid when I see one.

The battle continued as Xena picked up another fish and threw a large swordfish right at a line of soldiers. Before they could do anything, the fish flew through the air and pierced through their shirts before getting stuck in the trunk of a tree behind them, pinning them in place. Gabrielle continued to write as Xena reached to her side for her chakram but was taken a little by surprise when she looked in her hand to find a looped eel instead. But with no time to question how the fish had gotten there, the woman just improvised and threw the eel just as if it were her chakram. She still managed to take down a number of the enemy in the process. Gabrielle’s quill continued to move along the page as Xena drew her sword and, with the weapon in one hand and a line of fish in the other, the warrior woman began striking down one enemy after another.

JOXER
Then Xena fought with the warrior leader.

The blonde wrote as Joxer read over her shoulder, and had something finally click with the odd wording from something back at the beginning of the scroll.

JOXER
Hey, what do you mean, “Awoke with a jerk”?

APHRODITE
(Sarcasm) Oh, now he finds that odd.

ARES
Never mind that. Just keep to the script.

?
I'm ready for action. Where's Xena?

Hearing the voice, Joxer looked over to see Minya standing beside them.

JOXER
Minya? What are you doing here? Where are the barbarians?

MINYA
Not sure why, but they suddenly stopped fighting and said something about going home. So I’m guessing they’re on their way back to Barbaria.

Then Aphrodite felt something and with a wiggle of her finger, Minya suddenly pulled Joxer in and kissed him.

APHRODITE
Yes! I’m back.

With a big smile on her face, The goddess zapped herself back to her usual proper, girly self, before looking at the others.

APHRODITE
I'm outta here. Later.

With that, Aphrodite vanished as Joxer and Minya regained control over themselves, and Minya shoved Joxer away with a disgusted look on her face. Meanwhile, Xena continued to fight as she let out her battle cry and leapt into the air, did a flip, and landed on the cart, sending the rest of the fish raining down on the enemy army. Crawling out from under a pile of fish, the army’s leader stood and, humiliated that he had been bested by someone using fish as a weapon, reluctantly called his men to retreat. Seeing this caused Ares to laugh as he too felt his powers return.

ARES
That's right. Run, you maggot!

The god of war chuckled to himself as he sent a bolt of lightning at the army leaders behind.

ARES
Oh yeah, I still got it.

Ares's attention then turned to Gabrielle for a moment.

ARES
Well, that was certainly an interesting experience. See you around, pipsqueak.

The god flicked Gabrielle on the forehead as he laughed and in a flash, Ares was gone.

MINYA
You know? I expected more from the God of War. I mean, without his powers, he's just another man. Just another big old, leather-clad, well-muscled, gorgeous, hunk of a bad-boy man.

Gabrielle rolled her eyes as she rubbed her forehead.

MINYA
I, uh, think I should get back to Hower.

Giving a quick goodbye, Minya walked off as Xena made her way over to where only Gabrielle and Joxer still stood.

GABRIELLE
Well. I guess this means everything's fine, now.

XENA
I guess so.

Joxer looked down at the scroll.

JOXER
Hey, look, you still got some extra space at the bottom of the scroll.

GABRIELLE
Huh, I guess so. I’ll have to figure out what else to write.

JOXER
Like what?

GABRIELLE
Don’t Know yet. But whatever it is, I’ll just have to make sure I’m careful when I do.

The young woman rolled up the paper.

GABRIELLE
I’ll figure it out later. It's been a long day and right now the only thing I wanna think about is what's for dinner.

So the trio left and after parting ways with Joxer, Xena and Gabrielle found a nice little spot to set up camp and make dinner.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

The stars hung in the sky as Xena walked over to the blanket that Gabrielle was sitting on beside the campfire after she had finished tending to Argo.

XENA
Whatcha doing?

The blonde looked up from her pack that she had been looking through as Xena took off her armor.

GABRIELLE
I was just thinking about what we should do with the rest of that scroll. I mean if some of it is left blank, someone could get a hold of it and do some real damage.

XENA
Or they can try and instead of an army of armed men, they end up with an army of ants.

GABRIELLE
I’m serious Xena.

The warrior sat down beside the blonde and took the scroll.

XENA
Well if you’re so worried, why not just destroy it? This way we’ll know for sure it can never fall into the wrong hands.

GABRIELLE
I thought of that, but It won't rip, water just runs off it, and it doesn’t burn.

XENA
Huh.

The warrior thought for a moment as she looked at the paper.

XENA
Then I guess the only thing to do is finish filling it up.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, but with what?

Xena shrugged as she gave the scroll back to the bard.

XENA
Just think of something you want and word it carefully.

GABRIELLE
Something I want? Like what?

Again, the raven-haired woman shrugged as she lay down.

XENA
I’m sure you’ll figure something out.

After watching Xena for a moment as the warrior got comfortable and closed her eyes, Gabrielle looked at the nearly full scroll as she tried to think of something she wanted. When nothing came to mind, she turned her eyes back to the warrior woman and smiled, thinking of everything the two had gone through together. She then looked around at the clearing they had set up their camp in and smiled as an idea came to her. Quietly, Gabrielle wrote, filling almost all the rest of the page. Then, once she was done, smiled as she looked up the scroll to see what she had written made into reality.

XENA
Gabrielle, what exactly did you write in that scroll?

Feeling the surface change beneath her, Xena opened her eyes to find herself looking up at a ceiling as she lay in a large, comfortable bed and sat up to look at the bard who shrugged cautiously.

GABRIELLE
I thought it might be nice to actually sleep in a bed for a change.

She quickly continued.

GABRIELLE
But I made sure to be direct and specific with what I wrote to make sure nothing unexpected happens. This is the closest inn to where we set up camp. No one was using this room. I used our own money that we already had to pay for it. Nothing’s wrong with the room. All our stuff is here, Argos safe in the stables. I think that’s everything.

Xena stood as she looked around to make sure that nothing was amiss, before walking back over to take a look at the scroll.

XENA
Okay, I suppose nothing seems off.

The warrior read on until she reached one line in particular and looked at the bard with an arched brow.

XENA
Xena and Gabrielle have a romantic night at the inn, Huh?

Gabrielle let out a slightly uncomfortable chuckle as Xena looked at her.

GABRIELLE
Things have been kind of even more hectic than normal. I just thought it might be nice to have at least one night just for us without needing to worry about anything else.

The dark-haired woman sighed as she put the scroll down and moved to stand before that bard.

XENA
Gabrielle, if you wanted some time for just us, all you had to do was say so.

She smiled as she put her arms around Gabrielle’s waist.

XENA
You should know that I’ll always try to make time for you.

GABRIELLE
I know. Just after a long day of everything going wrong, and you not being around, I just thought this would be something nice for both of us.

XENA
Well, if that’s the case.

Xena lightly pressed her lips to the other woman’s as she got an idea of her own.

XENA
How would you like to try something?

GABRIELLE
What did you have in mind?

Xena took the scroll and turned her back to Gabrielle as she wrote something. Then just a moment later, Gabrielle suddenly found herself lying on the bed fully nude as Xena looked over her shoulder at her with a smirk before turning away once more to write something else. Then the blonde watched as the warrior’s clothes also vanished, except for something unfamiliar around the warrior's waist, as she heard Xena let out a satisfying sigh. The bard then watched as the raven-haired woman turned to face her. That was when Gabrielle saw something between the other woman’s legs, resembling a particularly phallic shape as the warrior moved toward her. Seeing the woman’s eyes drawn to her groin area, Xena smiled as she stopped to stand before her.

XENA
(Sensual tone) So what do you say, Gabrielle? You up for having a little fun tonight?

The bard looked down at what had appeared around the warrior's waist, unsure of what to make of this sudden new item. Noticing the young woman's apprehension, Xena brought her hand to the bard’s chin and lightly lifted the younger woman’s eyes to meet hers.

XENA
You know, if you don’t wanna…

GABRIELLE
No, it’s okay. I just wasn’t expecting this, is all.

The blonde looked back down to the item in front of Xena as she sat up, and the warrior smiled as she took the bard's hand to touch the faux male member. She slowly guided the bard's hand along the length and back down again as she whispered into the woman’s ear.

XENA
(Seductive whisper) And what do you think?

The bard looked down as she moved her hand along the phallus and heard Xena gasp slightly when she moved the item upward and looked at the woman once more and got a sly smirk in return.

XENA
Let's just say there’s more to this thing you can’t exactly see right now.

Realizing what the warrior meant after a moment, Gabrielle pushed the phallus against Xena again. The warrior woman sighed as she felt the other, matching end of the phallus push further into her sex, where It had appeared after Xena had written the item into existence.

XENA
So what do ya say?

The younger woman smiled as she imagined where this could lead, and let go of the strap-on as she brought her lips to meet with the warrior’s.

GABRIELLE
I guess I’m open to giving this a try.

The dark-haired woman smiled before pulling Gabrielle into a deep kiss and laid them both down on to the bed, covering the bard's body with her own. The two pressed their lips together several more times before the warrior’s tongue passed into Gabrielle's mouth, where it tangled with the other woman’s as the blonde’s hands moved to roam over Xena’s back. They went on like this for several long moments until Xena finally pulled away and began moving her lips lower, tracing them down the other woman’s neck and to her chest. Gabrielle let out a soft sigh as she felt the warrior’s mouth reach her breast, shuddering as the woman’s lips grazed her nipple. Xena smiled at the reaction, always loving to see the bard’s response to just the slightest sensual touch. She then took the little peek into her mouth and lightly sucked it for a bit as she brought her hand to paw at the other breast, getting a satisfying groan from the woman beneath her in response. She continued to suck the bard’s nipple for a couple of moments, as Gabrielle groaned, feeling the attention to her breast’s having a direct impact on the growing dampness between her legs.

Finally, after a bit longer, Xena took her lips away from the other woman’s breasts to bring them back to meet with Gabrielle’s as she moved to position herself between the bard’s legs. After a couple more passionate caresses of her lips, Xena raised off the bard to kneel, and taking the phallic member in her hand, she began to rub the tip of it along Gabrielle’s center. The bard sighed happily as she felt the item slowly move against her, inciting her voracious desire further. Xena continued to stroke the end of the phallus along Gabrielle’s feminine center and watched as the bard’s hips began to rise slightly to move with it.

XENA
(Seductive/ teasing tone) You like that?

Gabrielle nodded as the warrior woman continued to guide the end of the phallic member along her nether region.

XENA
(Seductive/ teasing tone) You want me to put it inside you?

The bard just sighed as Xena continued her teasing.

XENA
(Seductive/ teasing tone) What was that?

The dark-haired woman leaned closer to Gabrielle to talk into her ear.

XENA
(Seductive/ teasing tone) Does my little bard want me to fuck her with this new little toy of ours?

The blonde shuddered at the rush she always felt whenever Xena talked dirty to her during their lovemaking and nodded as she spoke up. Knowing that Xena liked to both tease and hear her vocalize what she wanted the warrior to do.

GABRIELLE
(Wanting tone) Yes. Xena, please.

The response seemingly enough for her, Xena smiled as she kissed the blonde and slowly began to press the end of the strap-on into Gabrielle's sex, being as gentle as possible. Knowing that the bard hadn’t had anything other than Xena’s or the young woman's fingers inside of her. Gabrielle gasped as she felt herself being filled by the member, until Xena stopped pushing and looked at the woman.

XENA
You good?

Gabrielle nodded as she felt the phallus resting within her depths and smiled as she kissed the warrior, admiring how the woman always made sure that she was okay, regardless of the situation. Returning the expression, Xena placed both of her hands on either side of the bard on the bed and slowly pulled her hips back a bit before moving forward again. A small gasp came from both women as they each felt their end of the dual-sided strap-on push further within them. The warrior again moved back and then forth, sending the phallus burrowing into each of their depths again, and then again. The two groaned in delight as Xena thrust in a slow, steady rhythm. She relished the feeling of having something so far inside of her and the way it moved in sync with every time she rocked back and forth against the woman under her.

Gabrielle groaned softly as she felt the phallus surging within her each time the warrior propelled herself forward against her. She let her hands skate across Xena’s back as she felt the member continue to drive into her core repeatedly, each advance pushing her closer to a euphoric oblivion. The blonde whined the other woman’s name as she began to feel the gradual building toward her release, which she knew would soon overtake her as she held tighter to the warrior. She wrapped her legs around the woman, who continued to move against her, and began to thrust a bit harder, knowing the tell-tale signs that the bard was nearing her apex.

The phallus continuing to tunnel into her opening for another few moments, Gabrielle could feel herself now racing toward her climax as she breathed heavily, gasping for Xena not to stop. In response, the raven-haired woman proceeded to embed the faux member into the bard with an increased vigor, her own orgasm also drawing near as a result. The phallus now forging into her with deep, powerful momentum. It was only a matter of just a few more strokes until Gabrielle let out a rapturous cry of sheer euphoric bliss as she felt the depths of her femininity begin to contract and spasm. A thrilling warmth swept through the blonde as her body went rigid, and she tightened her hold on Xena, who sent the phallus into the woman several more times as Gabrielle rived in ecstasy as each additional thrust prolonged her impassioned delirium. Finally, after one more lunge forward, Xena stopped moving as she let the bard catch her breath, caressing her lips gently against the younger woman’s while Gabrielle felt the lingering aftershocks of her high beginning to fade.

GABRIELLE
Oh, Xena, that was so wonderful.

The bard kissed the woman above her before the warrior smiled.

XENA
What do you mean, ”was”?
(Seductive tone) I was just giving you a quick breather.

Before Gabrielle had the chance to respond, holding the younger woman, Xena rolled over, and the bard suddenly found herself straddling the warrior woman. The phallic member still buried within her sex as Xena’s hands skated up her thighs to her ass, where the woman took a firm hold, getting a gasp from the bard as she let out a seductive growl.

XENA
(Seductive tone) Ride me, Gabrielle.

Hearing the command, the bard groaned as she felt her nether region instantly respond as it twitched. The longing ache returned to the area as she slowly began moving herself up and down on the double ended strap-on, pushing it further into both of them. She moved her hands to Xena’s shoulders and held on as Xena groaned.

XENA
(Seductive tone) That’s it, ride me until you come.

The blonde breathed heavily as she ground herself against the warrior, steadily working her sex along the phallic member. The item pressed deep within her with each roll of her hips as she thrust herself onto the strap-on again and again. Feeling the end of the device that was nestled inside of her own sex propelling further into her every time Gabrielle came down on the other end, Xena could feel her orgasm approaching. A ravenous groan escaped her throat as a warmth began to build within her depths. As the bard kept moving, The warrior woman brought her hands to hold the blond’s waist as she began surging her hips upward, thrusting each end of the strap-on further into both women. The sudden sharp movement got a loud gasp from the bard as she felt the phallus resend a bit before Xena again drove her hips up to send the member right back in. Gabrielle let out an impassioned cry as she felt the woman beneath her plunge the phallus into her again and again and again. With every movement bringing her ever closer to the edge, Xena continued to buck her hips, rapidly driving the two-sided member into both the bard’s core and her own.

With a second climax about to take her as she felt the continuing, ravenous onslaught, Gabrielle moaned Xena’s name as she lowered herself to cover the woman. She grabbed at the bedding under them as Xena wrapped her in a firm embrace, the dark-haired woman remaining unyielding in sending the phallus into each of their openings. Her own depths saturated from her incredible, burning desire as she felt the familiar warmth within her sex ready to bubble over at any second.

As the member reached deep, the bard trembled when she felt the member hit the right spot one more time and sent her careening over the edge as she came again. Gabrielle let out an enraptured yell as her womanhood pulsed around the phallus that still thrust within her, while Xena continued to send the strap-on into the both of them. Reaching a fever pitch, the warrior sped up her movements as she let out a series of animalistic grunts. Then with one more, powerful advance of her hips, Xena came hard as her sex convulsed around the member inside her. Her hips jolted upward several more times as she held Gabrielle tightly against her, relishing the incredibly intoxicating sensation, as the euphoric waves of her orgasm crashed into her, and she felt the glorious warming rush of a jubilant release flood her feminine opening. Finally, after several moments, Xena’s frenzied core began to settle and the pair shared a number of tender caresses of their lips, and loving words spoken between them. Their ravenous appetites for one another sated for the time being as they laid comfortably in one another’s embrace.

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Later that night, they had finally dragged themselves from the bed and dinner had been eaten. All was quiet at the inn as Gabrielle sat at the small table in their room looking at the enchanted scroll that still remained unfinished.

GABRIELLE
So how should I end the scroll?

She looked over to Xena, who shrugged from her relaxed position on the bed with her body stretched out and her hands resting behind her head. Her eyes were idly following a spider as it weaved its web in a corner of the ceiling.

XENA
Doesn’t need to be complicated. Just write something like, “The End.” Simple enough.

GABRIELLE
Seriously?

The bard turned in her chair to face the warrior woman.

XENA
Why not? You know you don’t always have to do something big and elaborate. Sometimes the simplest option can be the best.

The bard thought for a moment.

GABRIELLE
Well, okay,

Gabrielle turned back toward the scroll on the table and began to write the words “the end” at the very bottom of the scroll as she continued to speak.

GABRIELLE
Though personally, I just think that sounds a bit…

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

The sun was high as another day of life on the road came for Xena and Gabrielle. On this particular day, the warrior stood by the side of the dirt path, with Argo watching the younger woman with an unamused look on her face.

XENA
I still don’t think this is a good idea.

GABRIELLE
You worry too much, Xena. Relax, I got this.

The bard stood ready to run as she eyed her staff that rested horizontally between some low-hanging tree branches. Then after a moment, she ran toward the staff, and once she got close, jumped up and forward, grabbing the staff and using it to help her flip head over heels in midair before landing on her feet.

GABRIELLE
Hey, I did it!

XENA
(flat tone) Terrific.
Now, I suggest you stop before you hurt yourself. So let’s go. I’d like to get to Thessaly at some point.

GABRIELLE
Hold on. I just wanna try one more thing.

Gabrielle walked over to the dark-haired woman and pulled a small doll made out of toothpicks from her cleavage. Xena raised a curious eyebrow at the item that she noticed looked oddly familiar.

XENA
Did you make a doll of me?

Gabrielle rolled her eyes.

GABRIELLE
It’s for visual aid.

She took the toothpick doll and began to move and rotate it in a mini-arc as she spoke.

GABRIELLE
You see, I've worked out the mechanics, the speed, trajectory, and finally, the arc of the spin. I’ve broken down all your flip’s motions to its most basic and simple steps.

XENA
Basic and simple steps, huh?
(Sarcasm) Alright, smarty-pants, then what foot do I start on?

The bard replied with a playful, smug smirk.

GABRIELLE
Don't try to confuse me.

She tucked the little doll back into her shirt as she turned around and began confidently walking away.

GABRIELLE
Just you watch. This time, no staff

XENA
Gabrielle, before I tried the flip without the help of a staff, I made three hundred attempts with it.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) Slow learner, huh, Xena? You know, basket weaving used to give me a hard time.

XENA
If you insist on doing this, you take off on the right foot, but I'd rather you didn't.
(Muttering to herself) Smart ass.

GABRIELLE
Relax, if I do mess up, it's not like it's gonna kill me. Let me try it one
time, okay? That's all I need.

The bard stood ready once again before taking off in a sprint. After several long strides, Gabrielle planted her left foot on a small rock and used it to propel herself forward.

XENA
(Talking to herself) Wrong foot.

The warrior looked on as Gabrielle did in fact flip as the bard had planned. However, actually landing the stunt properly was a different story as she came down much harder on one leg and twisted her ankle as a result. Sighing to herself, Xena walked over to where the bard was laid out to check on her.

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GABRIELLE
I'm telling you, it’s nothing serious. My ankle is fine.

The young woman tried her best to hide a painful grimace as she used her staff for leverage while limping down the road not long after her failed flip attempt.

XENA
Come on, stop being so stubborn.

Xena walked slowly behind the woman with Argo at her side as she watched her struggle.

XENA
So you tried something new and it didn’t work out this time. It happens. Just let me take a look at it.

GABRIELLE
Would you stop? I said I’m fi-INE!

Gabrielle let out a painful yelp as the other woman reached down and took hold of her ankle.

XENA
(Sarcasm) Gee, good thing it's nothing serious.

Xena felt the bard’s ankle, who made another pained groan.

XENA
Already swollen.

GABRIELLE
I'll walk it off.

The blonde stubbornly took her foot from the warrior’s grasp.

XENA
I'm not gonna say I told you so.

GABRIELLE
I’m sure you'll work it in.

She again began to slowly amble away as Xena sighed before suddenly shouting to the bard.

XENA
Gabrielle, quick! Get down!

Instantly, believing there must have been some kind of danger, the young woman dove to the ground as Xena grabbed and threw her chakram. However, instead of the weapon being sent toward an oncoming threat, it sliced up the side of Gabrielle's boot, who looked at her now-destroyed footwear before turning her attention to the warrior with a scowl.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) These were good boots, Xena. Why’d you do that?

XENA
I’m testing a new theory for treating sprains. Elevation and ice-cold water.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) I’m curious to know what that has to do with carving up my only pair of boots.

Xena helped Gabrielle up to sit on a nearby rock as she took off the cut boot.

XENA
Well, the tight boot would just make it swell more.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly irritated stone) Yeah, well, I'm not very thirsty. And now you owe me a nice pair of boots.

XENA
Yeah, yeah.

The warrior flicked at the young woman’s ankle.

GABRIELLE
Ow!

Gabrielle eyed the woman as Xena began wrapping the bard’s sore ankle.

SOLDIER
You, there! Run for your lives!

Hearing the shouting, both women looked to see a man running toward them, And the warrior stood to meet him as he stopped in front of her, huffing as he tried to catch his breath.

XENA
What's going on?

SOLDIER
A fleet of tall, foreign ships carrying a massive army landed on the shore two nights ago. They laid waste to our troops in Marathon. And now they're heading this way on a march toward Athens.

XENA
Tall ships with three masts and two rows of oarsmen?

SOLDIER
That's right.

The man looked at Xena in surprise at how quickly she was able to guess what they were up against.

XENA
Persians.

GABRIELLE
Persians? From the way you're talking, I’m guessing you’ve fought them before.

The warrior turned her attention to the blonde.

XENA
Gabrielle, we’re talking about the most ruthless army to ever go to war. If they reach Athens, there’s no question that Greece will be lost.

Hearing the seriousness in the raven-haired woman’s voice, Gabrielle knew immediately just how dire the situation must have been.

GABRIELLE
But what are we going to do?

XENA
The only thing we can do to save Greece from falling. Stop them.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

With the looming threat of the Persian army now bearing down on all of Greece. Xena and Gabrielle spoke more with the soldier that had approached them so they could try to get a better sense of what they were up against.

GABRIELLE
So the Spartans were fighting at Marathon, alongside the Greeks? That's a first.

SOLDIER
Yes, but unfortunately, they were slaughtered. They fought as hard as they could, but they were so outnumbered, they never stood a chance.

XENA
This is bad. If we don’t act fast, the Persians will swarm through this land like man-eating locusts. We'd better move.

Xena moved to where Gabrielle was still seated with her ankle bandaged and helped the young woman to stand.

SOLDIER
The scene was so horrific. I’ve never seen such an attack. There were so many arrows raining down on us, we couldn’t see the sun.

XENA
Someone needs to warn the Athenians. If the city is caught unprepared, the people there won’t stand a fighting chance.

As she spoke, The warrior draped Gabrielle’s arm around her neck as she assisted the bard over to where Argo was waiting a few feet away and helped the bard onto the mare’s back. Once the blonde was settled, Xena returned her focus to the soldier.

XENA
I never caught your name.

SOLDIER
Oh, it’s Phiddipides.

XENA
Okay, Phiddipides, do you think you can make it to Athens on your own and tell them about Marathon?

PHIDDIPIDES
Yes.

XENA
Good.

Xena patted the man's shoulder.

XENA
Be sure to pace yourself. In this heat, a run like that could kill you. We'll do what we can to try and slow their march.

With that, the soldier nodded his understanding before wishing the two women good luck as he took off in a brisk jog toward Athens to warn the city’s people of the impending threat.

GABRIELLE
Xena far be it from me questioning your abilities, but stopping an army ourselves just doesn't seem remotely possible with just two people. Even if one of them is you.

Ignoring Gabrielles’s reasonable concern over what just the two of them were supposed to do against a whole army, Xena took Argo’s reins and began moving to cut off the Persian army.

XENA
Keep your foot elevated.

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Moving down a path, Gabrielle sat riding Argo as the warrior walked, silently looking around at their surroundings as she thought of what it would take to stop the attacking army’s advance. Meanwhile, the extended time that had passed with a lack of conversation, continued to nag at the bard for some time, until finally, she couldn’t take sitting quietly with her thoughts any longer.

GABRIELLE
Okay, go on, say it. We'd move a lot faster if I hadn't tried that.

XENA
Tried what?

GABRIELLE
The flip? You warned me not to do it, but I didn’t listen.

Only half focused on the conversation, Xena stopped, bringing Argo to a halt also, as she was suddenly struck with an idea.

XENA
I got it. The pass.

The topic they were just discussing, quickly forgotten, The younger woman questioned the warrior's sudden comment.

GABRIELLE
The pass?

XENA
The pass at Thermopylae, that's the answer.

The bard gave the dark-haired woman a slightly confused look.

GABRIELLE
Wait, what was the question?

Xena turned to look at the blonde woman.

XENA
The pass. It's the shortest route from Marathon. The Persians have no choice but to go through there, so that's the best place to stop them.

GABRIELLE
I’ll say it again. Two people. Against a whole army?

XENA
No, an army against a landslide.

The warrior smirked as she continued.

XENA
A landslide that we’re gonna cause, thereby sealing off, and stopping that army in their tracks.

GABRIELLE
Okay, that sounds like a pretty good plan.

Gabrielle paused for a moment as she looked down at her injured ankle, before bringing her eyes back to The warrior.

GABRIELLE
But look, Xena, I'm slowing you down. Why don't you go ahead? You can create the landslide while I wait here.

XENA
Not gonna happen. Persians send out scouts ahead of the bulk of their army. They'd find you.

Gabrielle sighed as she again cursed herself for trying to do that flip earlier.

GABRIELLE
Stupid ankle. If only I hadn't tried that.

XENA
Well, We’ll be lucky if you twisting your ankle is the worst thing that happens today,

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GABRIELLE
Has it occurred to you that, well, maybe the landslide will just delay them?

Gabrielle spoke from her perch atop Argo as she and Xena continued toward where the warrior planned to cut off the invading army.

GABRIELLE
I mean, you do realize the Persians could just go around the mountain, and continue on to Athens that way?

The warrior glanced over her shoulder at the blonde.

XENA
Which is exactly where we want them.

GABRIELLE
Where?

XENA
Tripolis.

GABRIELLE
Why? What’s in Tripolis?

Xena turned her eyes forward as they continued to move.

XENA
I used to keep a secret armory in the area. If we're lucky the weapons will still be there. Then we'll be ready for 'em.

GABRIELLE
We? As in you and me? Okay Xena you keep saying that as in just the two of us are gonna be able to face down a whole army. But as much as I’ve seen what you can do, I’m telling you Xena there's no way only two people can stop an army on their own.

The dark-haired woman smirked.

XENA
Well you, me, and the Tripolis militia.

The bard breathed a small sigh of relief as she finally learned that it wouldn’t only be Xena and herself facing down such a devastatingly destructive and infamous fighting force.

GABRIELLE
Oh, that 'we.'

Suddenly there was a rustling sound that came from nearby, and Xena drew her sword. An armed soldier lept out of the bushes and came straight for the two women with his own blade raised and poised to kill.

SOLDIER
(Angry tone) Give up the horse, or the last thing you see will be your heart in my hand.

XENA
(Joking tone) Sorry, but I’m afraid someone else already beat you to it.

The warrior smirked as she shot a quick glance toward Gabrielle before she refocused on the man in front of her and her face went serious.

XENA
Now you've been following us for the last half an hour, and this is all you’ve come up with? Taking my horse?

Using his sword, the man motioned toward Gabrielle, who was still seated on Argo.

SOLDIER
(Threatening tone) Help her down, or I will!

XENA
All right, If that’s how you want it to be.

In one quick motion, the warrior jumped and flipped over the soldier to land behind him as she swung her sword. The man quickly brought his own weapon up to block, only to find himself staggering back from the impact when his and the warrior's weapons clashed. The soldier swiftly recovered as he planted his boots firmly into the earth before lunging forward with an angry yell to drive his blade into the woman standing in front of him. With the sword coming straight for her, Xena watched as it drew closer until at the very last moment she brought her blade down against the soldier’s, pushing the weapon down and away from her. Not stopping there, the woman brought up her boot and kicked the sword out of the soldier’s hands before spinning around and landing a hard elbow strike to the man’s face. A flow of crimson began to pour from the soldier's nose as he stumbled back only to catch a hard boot to his chest that laid him flat out on the ground as Xena stood over him. Her eyes glared at him as she pointed the tip of her sword toward him before she noticed something odd about him that had revealed a good portion of the man’s identity.

XENA
He's a Spartan.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

While standing over the soldier she had just bested in battle, Xena lowered her sword and scowled at the man, taking in his appearance.

XENA
So where’d you get that outfit? You an actual Spartan, or did you steal that get-up from a real warrior?

The man scowled as he looked up at the warrior woman.

SOLDIER
I am a Spartan! I competed in a Marathon! When my commander saw we were being overwhelmed, he sent me to find a fall-back position. But on the way my horse was injured, and needed to be put out of its misery.

Argo whinnied at the topic as the man continued.

SOLDIER
I wanted your horse to finish my mission and get this treated.

The man winced as he moved slightly to motion to his back. Xena crouched and helped him turn to his side to find a large gash across his back.

XENA
It's just a flesh wound. I can dress it. You get that running from battle?

She helped the man stand and got a scowl in return.

SOLDIER
(Insulted tone) Spartans don't run.

XENA
Oh, I know. They fight to the death.

The warrior looked at his sword that was still laying on the ground as she took note of its condition.

XENA
Look at that it’s completely clean without a single nick or scratch on it. Basically in perfect condition. Almost as if it’s never even been used.

Her gaze returned to the soldier.

XENA
You're a deserter, aren't you?

The man scoffed at the question.

SOLDIER
No,

His eyes looked away from the woman as Xena took the action as a dead giveaway to what had happened as the soldier continued.

SOLDIER
I swear on my father's life.

XENA
Oh, a coward and a liar.
(Sarcasm) Your father must be proud.

Being caught in his lie, the soldier bowed his head in shame and spoke.

DORIAN
Fine I admit it. I abandoned my fellow men to be slaughtered while I ran. I'm a disgrace.

GABRIELLE
Everyone feels fear.

Xena glanced at the bard.

XENA
True…

She brought her eyes back to the soldier.

XENA
But if we all ran away from that fear, there'd be no home left to run to.

Xena extended her hand to the man.

XENA
It’s not too late. You can still redeem yourself. Join us.

The soldier eyed the hand offered to him as he contemplated the dark-haired woman’s offer.

SOLDIER
Join you?! Huh, against that army?! What can just the three people possibly do?!

The bard shifted to put less weight on her sore ankle as she looked at the warrior, giving her a small smile. She put her doubts of how they would manage such a feat out of her mind and decided to put her trust in Xena as she had so many times before.

GABRIELLE
Xena says she has a plan to stop them.

SOLDIER
You do?

XENA
I do.

The warrior woman smirked as she continued.

XENA
And you'll fit into it nicely.

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It was sometime later as Xena, Gabrielle, and the soldier, who they had learned went by Dorian, walked along, the bard making idle conversation with their temporary travel companion to pass the time. All seemed quiet until, in the distance, Xena’s sharp eyes caught a quick flash of light that she knew had to be the sunlight being reflected off a metal object. The warrior’s senses went on high alert as she quickly figured out the metal object was most certainly a sword or some other similar weapon or armor. She chose to remain silent about the object for the moment while the trio continued on.

DORIAN
Xena, you still haven't told me your plans to stop the Persians.

XENA
(Flat tone) Oh, I haven't?

The woman stopped and in turn, brought Argo and Gabrielle in the mare’s saddle to a halt as she handed Dorian Argo’s reins.

XENA
Hey, I want you to take Gabrielle into the woods and keep her there, all right?

GABRIELLE
What is it, Xena? Did you see something?

Xena explained what she had seen.

XENA
It's likely the advance party I've been expecting.

GABRIELLE
I can still fight.

The bard tried climbing down from the horse but was quickly stopped as Xena held her in place.

XENA
No. I want you to get out of here.

GABRIELLE
But…

XENA
(Stern tone) Don't argue with me. You’re in no position to fight. I'll explain later. Now go.

The blonde opened her mouth to insist that she was staying but saw a look in the other woman’s eyes that she could tell meant there was no room for debate on the matter. So with a defeated sigh, Gabrielle took Argo’s reins and trotted off as Xena moved to stand with Dorian.

XENA
Get ready for a fight, Spartan.

Xena reached to her waist and took hold of her chakram, before letting it fly. It sliced through several of the oncoming enemy soldiers’ flesh before returning to the warrior’s hand as the enemy fell. But with more of the invading army coming toward her, Xena hooked her chakram back in its place and drew her sword. Then, letting out her battle cry, she jumped forward with a flip and landed right in the middle of a group of soldiers. She swung and slashed with her blade as she fought single-handedly against the group, while Dorian stood back and just watched the whole scene.

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Still unhappy about being sent away, despite knowing fighting would be difficult in her current state, Gabrielle rode up a nearby hill as she sighed to herself about being left out of the action. Argo was nearly completely over the hill when the bard looked back toward where she had left Xena and saw the woman fighting the invading forces by herself, as Dorian just stood there. Scowling at the soldier leaving Xena to fight alone, the blonde turned Argo around and swiftly galloped back down to where the man was standing.

GABRIELLE
Dorian! What are you doing?! Xena needs your help.

The man just stood there, clearly too scared to move.

GABRIELLE
Hey, snap out of it!

Using her good foot, Gabrielle kicked at the man to get his attention. As a result, the soldier finally snapped out of his trance-like state and looked at the blonde.

GABRIELLE
Fight or take refuge! Standing here out in the open like this isn’t helping anyone.

The man nodded in understanding as Gabrielle turned Argo to ride away from the battle once again as the soldier followed. They quickly moved to take cover amongst a patch of trees. As they drew close, the soldier ran ahead of the bard to get to safety. He suddenly stopped when he heard a painful cry ring out behind him as Gabrielle was struck from behind by an arrow, and she fell slumped forward in the saddle.

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Meanwhile, amidst the chaos, Xena continued to fight as she sunk her blade into yet another enemy. Blood sprayed onto the ground as she yanked the sword back out and let the soldier fall dead to her feet as she turned and carved her blade through another. The warrior woman quickly blocked an incoming strike before kicking the man away and cutting him down. But as his lifeless body to the ground before her, Xena’s heart sank as her eyes happened to catch sight of Gabrielle in the distance, who at this point had nearly completely fallen off of Argo.

XENA
Gabrielle.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Seeing Gabrielle barely holding on to the stampeding Argo, Xena ran her blade through an attacking soldier who charged her before taking off after the bard as Argo disappeared into a series of trees.

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XENA
Gabrielle?

The warrior pushed through the shrubbery to find Argo had come to a stop and quickly moved to Gabrielle.

XENA
Gabrielle.

Taking the bard in her arms, Xena got Gabrielle to the ground as Dorian approached through the bushes and crouched next to them.

DORIAN
I’m sorry. This is all my fault.

Xena scowled at the man as it took everything she had to not drive her fist straight into his face. Knowing that they would not have been in this situation if he had not run from his duty as a soldier.

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) Why don’t you go do something actually useful? Go make a damn fire!

Lowering his head in regret, Dorian apologized again before standing up and walking away to build a campfire.

GABRIELLE
It's not that bad.

Xena looked down at the woman in her arms to see Gabrielle grimace as the bard tried to play off her injury.

XENA
Gabrielle, I need to get that arrow out. This is gonna be painful.

The warrior helped Gabrielle sit up a bit more so she could work.

XENA
Ready?

The blonde nodded slightly as Xena grabbed the shaft of the arrow that was sticking out of Gabrielle’s shoulder and broke off the feathered end. She then began to push the arrow further into the bard, causing Gabrielle to let out a loud, pain-fueled cry as she felt the arrowhead pierce through the other side of her shoulder. Turning Gabrielle over, Xena took hold of that end of the arrow and began to pull it the rest of the way out.

GABRIELLE
Ahh! That's enough!

XENA
Sorry, I know it hurts, but it has to come out. We’re almost there.

With one more pull, Xena completely extracted the arrow from Gabrielle as the younger woman screamed before looking up at the warrior as she tried to mask her pain and watched as Xena examined and sniffed the arrowhead.

GABRIELLE
What is it?

XENA
This arrow’s been laced with poison.

GABRIELLE
Is it bad?

Xena lowered the arrow as she looked at the woman in her arms with a saddened expression in her eyes.

XENA
Without the proper antidote, it’s deadly.

Carefully, the warrior situated Gabrielle to lean up against a nearby rock before she stood up and went over to the fire that Dorian had gotten going and heated a decently sized stick she picked up in the flames. After a couple of moments, she returned to the other woman’s side, crouching down next to her.

XENA
This will help slow the poison’s progress through your body. Ready?

The bard nodded and then let out another loud scream as Xena pressed the scorching hot wood against the wound on Gabrielle's back. The warrior then repeated the process and held the stick to the front of the blonde’s shoulder, getting another pained cry from the woman.

DORIAN
Will that get the poison out?

XENA
No, it's already moving through her system.

Xena rose and went to Argo as she began rummaging through their bags, and Dorian turned his attention to Gabrielle.

DORIAN
Why did you come back for me?

GABRIELLE
I wanted you to see that waterfall and your son again.

Dorian looked at the young woman, not knowing what to say as after another moment Xena came back with a couple of items in her hands.

DORIAN
Can we still execute your plan?

Xena moved Gabrielle’s shirt off her shoulder and began applying the mixture to the bard’s wound as she spoke.

XENA
Don't you worry about my plan.

GABRIELLE
Dorian's right to be concerned, Xena. You should leave me and go on ahead.

The raven-haired woman raised her eyes from her task as she set down the rest of the mixture.

XENA
That is NOT an option.

She continued to speak as she took the bandage to cover Gabrielle's wound.

XENA
The advance scouts travel a day ahead of the main force, so we still have time to cut them off before they reach Athens.

GABRIELLE
Be honest Xena. How long do I have with this poison?

Xena did her best to put on a positive heir to mask her actual worry about the situation.

XENA
Well, the good news is it didn't hit a main artery. What I did should delay
the effects long enough until we can get to Tripolis and treat it with an antidote or serum there.

Xena stood as she helped the bard to her feet and back into Argo’s saddle.

XENA
You’ll see. By tomorrow, you'll be trying those flips again like nothing ever happened.

Grabbing Argo's reins, Xena began walking as she led the mare toward their destination once again, not knowing the true uphill battle they were about to face.

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Gabrielle groaned as she rode slouched over in Argo’s saddle, while Xena led the mare alongside her and Dorian as they moved along the hillside.

DORIAN
If she dies…

XENA
She won't!

The warrior sneered at the man as they continued.

DORIAN
Yes, but, if she dies, You'll end up blaming me for the rest of your life.

XENA
You’re the one that has to live with yourself. So If I were you, I wouldn’t worry about how I feel about you. Because after today, I'll never see or think about you again.
(Quiet angry tone) One way or the other.

DORIAN
But with Gabrielle hurt, what are we gonna do? Doesn't this change your plans?

XENA
It does.

The warrior stopped, bringing Argo to a halt as well, as she turned to face the soldier.

XENA
Look, with Gabrielle injured, we'll be moving too slowly now. So I need you to run ahead to Tripolis. I want you to tell the militia there to come meet me
at the pass at Thermopylae. There's been a landslide.

The man smiled.

DORIAN
You didn't tell me that the pass is blocked. That’s great. Finally, some good news.

XENA
Don’t get excited just yet. It's risky. There may be more Persian scouts ahead.

DORIAN
I’ll be careful.

XENA
Then you better get moving.

Dorian held out his hand and Xena took hold of his forearm as he did the same,

DORIAN
Thanks for giving me another chance. I'll be back with help soon.

He looked at Gabrielle.

DORIAN
This time, no amount of fear will stop me from doing my duty.

The blonde smiled.

GABRIELLE
Your son will be proud. Be careful.

DORIAN
Same to you.

Dorian smiled as he bid farewell to the bard and nodded his thanks to Xena before turning away and jogging off.

GABRIELLE
I think you might have changed him.

The warrior woman remained silent as she watched the soldier moving further away as Gabrielle thought of something.

GABRIELLE
Wait, there's no landslide at the pass.

XENA
You’re right. Just like there's no waterfall at Mizola.

GABRIELLE
What?

Xena turned her attention to the bard.

XENA
An interesting thing about Spartan fighters is from a young age they carry around a wooden stake and constantly squeeze it in their hands to callous them. But after I took his hand when I helped our little runaway soldier up this morning, I noticed he only had a few calluses on his sword hand. That man is no Spartan.

GABRIELLE
Then who is he? Where’s he actually from?

XENA
Persia. He's a spy.

TO BE CONTINUED

Chapter Text

From her seat atop Argo, Gabrielle looked at the woman standing beside her with a confused expression on her face as she tried to process what she had just heard.

GABRIELLE
A spy? But what about his wound?

XENA
One of his fellow Persians gave him that to make his story more convincing. And now, he's running back to tell them there's been a landslide.

GABRIELLE
Which means we don't have to do it. The army will just think there's been one and take the long route anyway.

XENA
And that will lead them right to the militia in Tripolis. Now, let's get moving so we can get you treated for that poison.

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The smell of smoke filled the air as Xena stood with Argo and Gabrielle, both women taking in the scene that they had just come across.

GABRIELLE
What is this place?

XENA
Tripolis, or at least what's left of it.

The land smoldered as Xena accessed their surroundings, taking in the damage that had clearly been caused by a fire recently sweeping through the area.

GABRIELLE
It looks like there's no one here.

The bard coughed, causing Xena to look at her and notice that the woman had begun to grow slightly pale. Making it clear that the effects of the poison Gabrielle had been infected with had started to take effect.

XENA
The militia torched their own town. They wanted to be sure the Persian army couldn't use anything here after the village was deserted.

The warrior scanned the area for a moment.

XENA
There, the physician's hut. There might still be something we can use. Wait here.

Gabrielle watched as Xena walked off and disappeared into a hollowed-out, burnt building.

Inside, Xena stepped over broken and charred furniture as she searched for anything that might help Gabrielle. Then, spotting a tipped-over shelf, she moved further through the wreckage to search where the antidote might most likely be found. Crouching down, Xena began rummaging through the mess until she noticed what looked to be a bottle amongst the broken containers that were intact. That was until she picked it up and saw that it was missing the bottom half and sighed.

Gabrielle coughed as Xena returned after leaving the burnt-down hut empty-handed with a sullen look on her face. Telling her that the warrior was unsuccessful in finding the antidote.

GABRIELLE
So no serum. Or militia.

The bard rasped slightly as she continued.

GABRIELLE
Next, the armory you said they'd have won't still be here either.

XENA
Doesn't matter.

Xena took Argo's reins.

XENA
We're not staying here. We'll go to Thessaly like we had originally planned. They'll have what you need there. We can take the back roads to avoid being seen.

The warrior began walking to leave the village, leading Argo and Gabrielle behind her.

GABRIELLE
But your plan?

The blonde paused as she coughed again.

GABRIELLE
Dorian must've told the Persians about Thermopylae by now. That means they'll be heading here. We're supposed to slow them down, that way the people ahead have the time to prepare.

XENA
No, first we get the serum. We can make it back before the Persians get too far.

GABRIELLE
Xena stop.

The raven-haired woman paused in her steps and turned toward the bard.

GABRIELLE
If we go to Thessaly, we won't make it back in time to stall the Persians. And if we can't hold them until the Athenian army arrives, you know Athens will be lost.

Gabrielle coughed and wheezed as Xena reached and patted her back to try to alleviate the young woman's struggle. After a moment more, Gabrielle's coughing fit ceased, and she saw the look of worry written on the warrior's face as she caught her breath before she spoke again.

GABRIELLE
I don't have very long. Do I?

Xena didn't say anything, but the pessimistic expression on her face told Gabrielle her assumption was correct as the blonde pressed on. Regardless of what her fate seemed as though it was going to be.

GABRIELLE
Then I guess we'll just have to stand and fight now, won't we? Thessaly will have to wait.

Xena clenched her fist at her side in frustration of their situation, as the bard again read what the warrior was thinking.

GABRIELLE
I know you don't wanna wait to get the antidote, but It's a chance that we have to take. Stopping this army is more important.

Xena growled to herself, knowing that if it was anyone else in their situation, she would say that stopping the army took priority. Even still, the warrior didn't like the idea. Gabrielle needed that antidote. But while her head and heart warred over what to do, she heard something in the distance, instantly recognizing the sound.

XENA
Horses. It's the advance party. Come on. We can hold up in the armory.

Walking hastily, Xena led Argo and Gabrielle into the barn-like building.

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Shutting the large doors behind her once Inside, Xena helped Gabrielle down from Argo's back and carried her to a pile of hay.

XENA
There, lay down. And just try to relax.

After settling the blonde, Xena moved to several crates that were stacked against a wall and used her sword to jimmy open the lid, before lifting it off completely and looking at the contents inside.

XENA
(Talking to herself) Not bad for sitting here for a few years.

She pulled a spear from the various weapons that were stored in the container and gave its condition a quick look over.

XENA
I hid these here in case I ever had another army. Though to be honest, I never thought I'd actually need them.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) I didn't know that I qualified as an army.

Gabrielle coughed as Xena grabbed a blanket from their things and brought it to the young woman.

XENA
(whispers) Okay. Let's make sure you're all set.

The raven-haired woman spread the blanket over the bard to make sure she was as comfortable as possible.

GABRIELLE
Xena, if this poison starts spreading faster, I...

She paused as she coughed again.

GABRIELLE
I have one last request.

Xena continued to focus on tending to the blonde, checking her pulse and visual indicators of Gabrielle's current condition. Pushing aside the likely possibility that the woman wouldn't survive through the night.

XENA
You can tell me about it later, years from now, when we're both old and gray.

GABRIELLE
I'm serious Xena. After you've stalled the Persians, if I can't make it, I want you to save yourself. I don't want you to throw your life away trying to protect me.

XENA
I can't do that.

GABRIELLE
Xena.

The bard grabbed one of the other woman's moving hands, getting Xena's full attention as she continued.

GABRIELLE
We're all gonna die, eventually.

XENA
Well eventually isn't today.

The warrior sighed.

XENA
Look, Gabrielle, I know it's bad, but we've survived worse, right?

The question posed more to convince herself than the bard, Xena finished tending to Gabrielle before letting the woman rest. She then moved to sit by a window where she could watch for the Persian army while keeping an eye on the bard. And as she watched the sun set, and counted the number of small glowing campfires in the distance, Xena never could have guessed the truly chaotic events that the coming day would bring. Or if both she and Gabrielle would even make it through it all alive.

TO BE CONTINUED...

Chapter Text

It was quiet as Xena sorted through the various herbs she had gathered from both the supply they kept on hand and what she managed to scavenge from searching the burned-down village. Once she finished taking inventory of what she had available, the warrior began to put some together to make something that she hoped would at least alleviate and slow the poison in Gabrielle’s system. Then, gathering the ingredients, the warrior woman moved to get a bowl and grinding stone from her pack and began to break down and mix the plants together. However, her work was soon interrupted when she heard Gabrielle have another coughing fit flare-up and moved to the woman’s side with the bowl.

XENA
(Soft tone) Hey. What are you doing sitting up?

The blonde shifted slightly.

GABRIELLE
I was uncomfortable on my back.

The warrior set the bowl down as she helped Gabrielle move to a more comfortable position on her side.

GABRIELLE
The Persians are out there, aren't they?

XENA
Yes.

Xena moved the bard’s shirt a bit and picked up the bowl again to resume mashing the herbs down.

GABRIELLE
How many campfires?

XENA
Thirty or forty.

The younger woman did some quick calculations in her head based on the bit of military knowledge she had picked up during her travels with Xena.

GABRIELLE
And that's about ten or so men per fire.

XENA
Something like that. From the looks of things, It's the main cavalry, filled with their best warriors.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Is that all? And here I thought we were in trouble.

She coughed a bit before continuing to speak as Xena applied the mixture to the bard’s wound.

GABRIELLE
Well, we only have to delay them, right? Just give them a bloody nose and a few black eyes.

XENA
You just let me worry about that. I gotta find someplace to hide you before they march through here.

The warrior finished putting on the mixture and re-covered Gabrielle’s wound.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) I guess this means I'm gonna miss out on all the fun, huh?
You know, if I didn’t know any better I’d say that this is just a clever diversion, to make me forget about my boots.

The woman’s attempt to even momentarily lighten the otherwise bleak situation quickly fell flat as another coughing fit hit. Which Xena noticed had grown significantly worse, as she did what little she could to help it pass by patting Gabrielle’s back. After a few moments, the bard gasped as she tried to catch her breath once the coughing fit had finally ceased.

GABRIELLE
(Breathing heavily) My chest feels heavy.

She looked at Xena and saw a look of sadness and dread in the woman’s eyes as she lightly ran her thumb over the corner of the bard’s mouth.

GABRIELLE
What?

XENA
Blood. The arrow must've grazed your lung. That’s why you’ve been coughing the way you have. Because of that, the poison…

Xena paused, not wanting to vocalize what she feared soon would happen to Gabrielle. But even without her hearing Xena say it, the bard knew from the way the dark-haired woman was looking at her exactly what she was thinking.

GABRIELLE
I just ran out of time, didn't I?

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XENA
All set.

A little time had passed, and Gabrielle watched as Xena tucked away the last of the things she had taken out of their packs to treat the bard. Then after making sure everything was tightly secured to Argo’s saddle, she returned to the bard.

XENA
Alright, come on.

She began to help the young woman sit up who coughed as she was moved.

GABRIELLE
What are you doing?

XENA
I'm getting you outta here.

GABRIELLE
Did the Persians pull back? 

XENA
No.

GABRIELLE
Xena, you can't do this. We can't leave. You're the only one who can stop them.

XENA
(stern tone) Quiet Gabrielle. I’m not debating this with you. I’m getting you out of here and that’s the end of it.

Gabrielle pushed the warrior's hands away.

GABRIELLE
We can’t do this, Xena. We can't just leave. If you don't hold them up, who knows how many innocent people will die.

XENA
(Stern tone) I am just gonna sit here and let you die. 

She softened her voice as she continued.

XENA
I can still get you to Thessaly and the antidote.

The bard scowled.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) And then what? What happens to Athens? You can’t tell me that my life is worth more than all those people.

XENA
(Stern tone) To me it is.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) And what about the greater good? You taught me that there are things in life worth dying for, things that hold a higher meaning
than our own life.

XENA
(Stern tone) Not your life.

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) Why? Because of your feelings for me?

XENA
(Stern tone) Yes!

Xena softened her tone again.

XENA
Gabrielle you mean more to me than I could ever say. How can you expect me to just stand by and do nothing while I watch you die?

GABRIELLE
You can honor my memory by saving those innocent people who will fall victim to the Persian army. We both know I'm right.

XENA
Gabrielle…

GABRIELLE
No, now you don’t argue with me. I want you to promise, Xena, that you will not leave this battle because of me.

Xena’s expression turned somber as she took Gabrielle’s hand and softly pressed her lips to the back of it.

XENA
(Soft tone) Okay. I promise.

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A large pot sat on an open flame as Xena stirred the big batch of tar she had made before moving to take another look at the assembly of weaponry she had laid out from her old stockpile. She picked up one of the hand axes for one more quick inspection, before in one quick instance the frustration of everything boiled over. She let out an angry shout as she sent the axe into the wall across from her.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Help.

Hearing the young woman call out, Xena’s anger instantly dissipated, and the warrior quickly hurried over to her.

XENA
Gabrielle?

She looked at the bard and saw that the woman was only talking in her sleep. 

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena.

XENA
(Soft tone) It’s okay, Gabrielle. I’m here.

She softly brushed Gabrielle’s hair, and the bard’s heavy eyes opened partway.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) You've got to take me with you, teach me everything you know. You can't leave me here in Poteidaia. I wanna go with you. 

Though her eyes were open, Xena could tell that the young woman was still asleep, even while she continued to speak.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) I've studied the stars, and spoken with philosophers. I have the gift of prophecy. I can be very valuable to you. Take me with you. I want so much to be like you.

The warrior watched as Gabrielle then closed her eyes once again and fell silent as she returned to a deep sleep. Seeing the blonde in this state tore at Xena’s heart as she sat there watching over the ailing woman, and a lone tear escaped her eye and ran down her cheek.

XENA
(Sad tone) And I want to be like you.

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The sun rose as Gabrielle awoke to a loud rumbling and opened her eyes to see Xena looking out the open doors of the armory.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena?

Not responding, the warrior quickly shut and barricaded the doors with a large board as Gabrielle slowly managed to sit up, feeling a sudden sense of dread fill her.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena.

The rumbling grew louder and the blonde watched as the windows and doors began to rattle, until suddenly the boarded-up doors were busted down, and the Persian army charged into the building.

Though vastly outnumbered, Xena stood undeterred as she drew her sword. Then, with an angry yell, she slashed at the first unfortunate soldier that came within her reach, slicing open his midsection and turning to drive her blade into another enemy before the first man’s body had even hit the ground. Another soldier came at her, and Xena responded by kicking his knee, which caused the man's leg to buckle from under him and fall. He looked up just in time to see the warrior woman with her sword raised above her head, pointed straight down, before she swiftly plunged it down, scraping against his sternum as it sank into his flesh. With another yell, the raven-haired warrior woman yanked her weapon out of the now-dead soldier as a spray of crimson spattered the ground and carved her way through another enemy that rushed her. A few more bodies fell to the ground after meeting Xena’s blade, before without warning, a man dropped through the roof above and landed on his feet directly behind her.

GABRIELLE
Xena behind you!

But her warning came too late, as everything around the bard seemed to move in slow motion as she watched the scene that then played out before her. Before she could react to the bard’s warning, Xena was grabbed from behind by the soldier, and Gabrielle could do nothing while looking on in utter horror as the Persian soldier sliced his blade across Xena's throat.

GABRIELLE
Xena!

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Green eyes shot open as Gabrielle suddenly found herself staring up into the darkness. Her heart pounded in her chest as she worked to slow her panicked, heavy breathing, before it caused another coughing fit, making it even more difficult for her to breathe. Then, finally noticing she wasn’t alone, the young woman looked over to see Xena sleeping beside her. Relieved that watching the warrior die so violently right before her eyes had just been a nightmare, Gabrielle felt an incredible sense of relief wash over her. She gently stroked the sleeping woman’s hair, hoping that the nightmare she just had was in fact just that, before her heavy eyelids won out again and she drafted back to sleep.

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Just before dawn, Gabrielle awoke again to see Xena pacing around, very clearly deep in thought as she did so.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena?

Hearing the bard speak, the dark-haired woman looked over to her as she moved toward her.

XENA
We're leaving.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) I thought that we agreed that stopping the Persian army was more important.

XENA
I changed my mind.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) There's no other way.

XENA
There’s always another way. There has to be. I'm gonna get us out of this.

GABRIELLE
It's too late for me.

XENA
I don't accept that. There are always choices.

Xena walked over and knelt next to Gabrielle as she continued.

XENA
I'm done paying for my past mistakes. My responsibility now is to you. That’s all that matters now.

GABRIELLE
Xena, you can’t…

XENA
(Stern tone) Don't argue with me. We’re leaving and that’s final.

GABRIELLE
(Weak/ stern tone) Don't you argue with me! We’ve been over this already. I know that I'm gonna die, and I accept that, Xena. Why can't you? 

The bard softened her tone as she carried on.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) I’ve known for a long time that one day our life together might lead to something like this. And because of that, now that It has, I'm not afraid. Because I’m here with you.

XENA
And to think you always said that I was the brave one. But look at you now. 

Xena pushed back the tears that threatened to fall as a sad smile crossed her lips.

XENA
Okay Gabrielle, If this is to be our destiny, then no matter what might happen going forward, let’s see it out together.

Reaching over, Xena laced her hand with Gabrielle’s as she continued. Making a vow right then and there that no force, mortal, or god would ever be able to break.

XENA
Even in death, Gabrielle. I will never leave you.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

As day broke, Xena watched Argo trot away after setting the mare free. Not wanting her beloved horse to get caught in the chaos that would soon be upon them, and uncertain that she and Gabrielle would survive the day, the warrior thought it best to send Argo away. Once Argo was out of sight, the warrior retreated back into the armory to finish preparing for what she felt might very well be her final battle.

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Back inside, Xena began moving a large container of oil, hoisting it up to the upper level of the building. Once done, she climbed back down the ladder and looked toward Gabrielle, who was laying unmoving in the shadows of the encroaching sun, and tentatively called out to her.

XENA
Gabrielle?

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) I'm still here. I think. Strange, I seem to have moved beyond the pain.

XENA
Here. I have a poultice ready for you.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) No, Xena please, don't bother with that. I can't fight. I can't help you. So please, just leave me here. At this point, I'm nothing more than a distraction to you.

XENA
But you're my source, Gabrielle.

Xena walked over and knelt beside the ailing bard as she continued.

XENA
When I reach down inside myself and do things that I'm not capable of, it's because of you.

She gently cupped Gabrielle’s cheek as she softly stroked her thumb over the soft skin.

XENA
Don't you know that by now? So no matter what might happen today, we’ll see it through together, all right?

Xena smiled softly before placing a gentle kiss on the young woman’s lips, and then lifted Gabrielle into her arms and over her shoulder as she walked over and carried the bard up the ladder.

XENA
(Soft tone) There you go.

Once on the upper level of the building, Xena eased the bard down onto another makeshift bed of hay she had prepared and covered her with a blanket.

XENA
You good?

Gabrielle coughed a bit before replying.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Yeah.

XENA
Okay. Listen, I'm gonna put the boiling oil over by the ladder.

Xena nodded toward where she had just carried the blonde.

XENA
If you see them start climbing up, just push it over onto them.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) But, what about you? You'll be down there with them.

XENA
You won't have to worry about that. If they make it to the point where they’re coming up here, then that means it’s already too late for me.

There was a moment of silence that passed between them as the meaning of what the warrior had just said sank in, until Xena stood to climb back down the ladder.

XENA
Until the other side, whether it be in this life or the next.

She turned to leave until she heard Gabrielle.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena, wait.

The warrior looked back at the young woman.

XENA
Yeah?

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Watch out for a man with a double-edged sword. I had a dream, he came through the roof and…

Gabrielle paused, not wanting to vocalize the possibility of Xena being killed right before the warrior was about to face what was her biggest battle to date alone. So instead, the blonde just told her the same thing she thought every time she watched the woman running straight into danger.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Just be careful.

A small, sad smile crossed Xena’s lips.

XENA
Always looking out for me, huh?

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Always. I loved you, Xena.

Xena moved back to where the bard lay and helped the woman sit up before wrapping her in a tight embrace.

XENA
I love you too, Gabrielle. You're my best friend, my family. Always remember, no matter what happens, nothing will ever change that.

The warrior pulled back slightly as she placed one more kiss on the bard's lips before continuing to speak.

XENA
'Til the other side, then. We'll be together.

GABRIELLE
'Til then.

Gabrielle laid back down as just a few moments later, the sound of multiple horses could be heard stampeding their way and Xena rose from her spot beside the bard with her sword in her hand.

XENA
They're coming.

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The sound of the approaching army growing louder, Xena stood pressed up to a wall of the upper level of the armory as she peeked through a crack to take stock of what exactly she was dealing with. Outside, she could see what looked to be multiple horses coming up over a hill. All of which were being ridden by soldiers wearing Persian armor. Signaling that the invading army had indeed arrived.

With an unseen scowl sent their way, Xena flipped down from the second story and moved to the building's large doors. She peered through the crack to gauge their distance once more, before taking hold of both doors and pulling so they flew open as she let out her famed battle cry, causing the army to stop dead in their tracks as they stood baffled by the brazen and bold behavior, most assuming that it was a call for hidden troops to launch their attack. That was until they realized there was no one else coming, and the leader called for the archers to open fire.

The archers lining up their shots, Xena Quickly shut and barricaded the doors once more, before stepping back and waiting for their next move as she heard a series of arrows hit the other side of the door. Hearing the commotion, Gabrielle managed to sit up slightly to see the warrior woman below, as a moment of silence passed before giving way to a sudden rumbling that began to cause the walls of the whole building to shake. Then, as if they were some sort of monster straight out of a scary story, one of the soldiers' arms burst through a wooden board that Xena had put over all the windows and began to claw away at the rest of the boards until he and several others started to climb in. Though she had hoped the boards would last longer, Xena stood unintimidated as she swiftly seized her chakram from her side and sent it flying to cut a rope that was holding back a large log embedded with multiple wooden spikes that then swung toward the window. Several painful groans rang out as the spiked contraption impaled multiple soldiers who had been trying to enter through the window, as a couple died instantly, while others remained stuck on the spikes alongside their dead allies as they tried both painfully and unsuccessfully to dislodge themselves from the spikes. Until they eventually stopped struggling and fell still like the others.

Meanwhile, with the windows now completely blocked, the invading army’s focus shifted to the doors. Which they were able to easily break down through sheer numbers before flooding into the armory as Xena stood ready despite the odds.

With several soldiers charging her, Xena reached over and picked up a stick from the fire that she had been using earlier and grabbed a bottle of ale that she had gotten out of their things and sipped on while setting everything up for the battle. Taking a big mouthful, the warrior held up the flaming stick and proceeded to spit the alcohol at the open flame, causing it to erupt in a large plume that set the men coming at her ablaze. Screaming in agony, the soldiers flailed helplessly as they felt themselves being burned alive, and Xena switched to using her sword and continued to fight against the others that were still rushing into the building.

Blood splattered onto the ground as the dark-haired woman’s blade cut into another soldier. Then, while leaving him to fall, she plunged her steel through a different soldier’s midsection, twisting her blade within him before yanking it out to fight the next man who came at her. Letting out an angry yell, Xena swung at another Persian soldier, cutting his arm to make him drop his weapon, before bringing her blade back the other way and catching him across the throat before moving on to the next soldier, and then the next, with seemingly no end to the onslaught in sight.

As the battle waged on, Xena kicked a soldier away before driving her blade into his chest. Then, with an angry yell, she slashed at the first unfortunate soldier that came within her reach, slicing open his midsection and turning to drive her blade into the next nearest enemy to her.

Meanwhile, Gabrielle kept watch from where she lay above the chaos as she watched another soldier come at Xena who responded by kicking his knee, which caused the man's leg to buckle from under him and fall. He looked up just in time to see the warrior woman with her sword raised above her head, pointed straight down, before she swiftly plunged it down, scraping against his sternum as it sank into his flesh. With another yell, the raven-haired warrior woman yanked her weapon out of the now-dead soldier as a spray of crimson spattered the ground and carved her way through another enemy that rushed her. Gabrielle felt her heart start to pound as she watched the exact scene from her nightmare seemingly playing out before her very eyes.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) No, Xena.

A few more bodies fell to the ground after meeting Xena’s blade, as the bard looked up to see the roof shake as just a moment later a man dropped through and landed on his feet directly behind the warrior.

GABRIELLE
Xena, behind you!

Fearing that her nightmare was about to become reality, Gabrielle fought with everything she had to move but could barely get off her blanket before she saw Xena duck and grab a spiked mace from a dead soldier lying at her feet before turning around as she stood and swung the weapon up, crashing it into the man’s face and dropping him to the ground where he then remained motionless.

As more Persian soldiers poured into the armory, Xena continued using the mace, as she swung and bashed a few more of the enemy in the skull, which even with their helmets, killed some of them on impact. While others, though not dead, laid twitching and, or semi-conscious at her feet. She swung the weapon again and again, but despite her efforts, Xena was beginning to become overwhelmed as more and more soldiers kept coming toward her and began to spread out and surround her. One man lunged to stab at her and managed to graze the warrior’s side and received an angry fist to his face in return. Another Persian soldier landed a cut to the back of the woman’s shoulder. In response, Xena threw her elbow back into the soldier’s nose before raising her sword to block another weapon’s strike. When yet another enemy grazed her leg with their spear, the raven-haired woman let out an enraged shout as she swung at the soldier but missed, only knocking off his helmet as he leaned back out of her reach. That was until Xena grabbed the spear’s pole and yanked it toward her with the man still holding the other end she drew her head back before sending it forward to connect with his, dazing him as he stumbled back a step or two before feeling the sharp pain of Xena’s sword being buried into his stomach.

Retrieving her blade from the soldier’s flesh, Xena was just barely able to block an axe strike that was coming down over her head as she yelled and shoved the man off of her before throwing the mace straight up and embedding the spikes in the ceiling and jumped to hold onto the mace’s chain as she kicked at the soldiers trying to grab her feet to pull her down,

XENA
Gabrielle, the oil! Do it!

Seeing the warrior woman in peril, though barely able to move, Gabrielle clawed her way out of her makeshift bed as fast as her weakened state would allow. Meanwhile, Xena kicked at another soldier who grabbed at her foot as she felt her grip on the chain beginning to slip, and she shouted for the bard again as she began being pulled down toward the mass of Persian soldiers waiting to tear her limb from limb.

XENA
Gabrielle, hurry!

Gabrielle crawled toward the pot as fast as she could as she heard Xena, who was pulled further down the chain, shout to her again.

XENA
Gabrielle!

Finally reaching the container, the bard used every bit of strength she could muster to tip the container over before collapsing completely as the soldiers below screamed from being burned as the scolding liquid was poured over them, which freed Xena from their grasp. Once able to move again, the warrior continued to ascend the chain while taunting the soldiers under her.

XENA
Come and get me!

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Outside, Xena’s battle cry rang out as she burst through the roof and flipped in midair before planting her feet on top of the building as the Persian forces that had gathered on the rooftop charged toward her. Spinning to dodge one of their swings, the warrior was unable to avoid the second and received another cut on her arm as she maneuvered behind the first man as she turned her sword down and thrust it behind her, burying its blade into the soldier behind the first man’s stomach. And as the soldier still in front of the warrior woman turned around, he was met with the sight of Xena pulling her weapon from the man behind her and him falling dead. Then before the still-living soldier could react, in one fluid motion, Xena turned her sword upright once again and thrust it forward in to his neck, causing him to make a sickening gurgling sound as he choked on his own blood, and she withdrew her weapon and let his limp body fall and roll off the roof to the ground below. Then as a third man came at her, the warrior woman yelled as she jumped up and planted a powerful boot to the soldier's chest, stomping down and driving him straight to his back, and crashing through the roof to land on the floor of the armory where he laid amongst the other slain bodies of his comrades below.

But then, as the dust settled, Xena saw a figure standing amongst the carnage that looked to be moving toward where Gabrielle laid, only to be cut off when she was forced to move in order to avoid another soldier that had climbed up to the roof, leaving the bard alone and defenseless.

WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

Laying right where she had collapsed after dumping out the oil barely able to keep her eyes open as she struggled just to breathe again, amidst the chaos above, Gabrielle heard the creaking of the old building’s floorboards and able to hear that Xena was busy fighting on the roof, lifted her head to see a familiar face smiling down at her with a sinister look in their eyes as the tip of a sword was pressed against the young woman’s chest.

DORIAN
(Sinister tone) Told you I'd be back with help.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

Fear filled Gabrielle’s eyes as Dorian stood over her, his blade poised to pierce her flesh. She tried to move, but in her severely weakened state, at this point the young woman could barely even sit up. So unable to get away, it looked as though Gabrielle’s death would come not from the poison as she had expected, but by the end of the Persian soldier's blade. Or so it seemed, until a loud crash caused Dorian to look behind him just in time to see one of his fellow soldiers drop from the ceiling as he crashed through the roof and land sprawled on the floor several feet from where Dorian stood. Then looking back up, he spotted Xena just before she jumped down through the hole in the roof, barely landing before leaping straight for Dorian. Swinging her blade, Xena forced the soldier to step back as she put herself between the soldier and Gabrielle. Her eyes burned through him as she glared intensely at the man for a brief moment before she let out an angry yell and lept toward him, bringing down her sword when she landed as Dorian dodged. The soldier turned to face the warrior woman with a swipe of his own blade that she blocked before shoving his blade away and followed up as she planted her boot in his chest, shoving him off of the upper level of the armory to the ground below.

Then without missing a beat, Xena cut through a rope that was tied onto one of the building's support pillars, releasing a flurry of arrows she had set up into a number of enemy soldiers, and killing all of them. Letting out her battle cry, the woman jumped down to land amongst more Persian soldiers and continued to fight. She slashed, stabbed, punched and kicked anything around her that moved as more bodies continued to fall by her hand.

Letting out a fierce roar, Xena sank her blood coated sword into yet another Persian soldier before ripping it from his flesh and grabbing a hand axe that was stuck in the wooden beam beside her and hurling it half-way across the room into a different man’s chest. The raven-haired warrior continued her relentless onslaught as she cut another rope that sent several heavy water barrels rolling down from the second floor crashing down onto a group of soldiers. Then, grabbing the rest of the hanging rope, she swung feet first into another, landing hard on his chest as her sword sank into the stomach of a different soldier. Her blade still embedded in the man’s flesh, Xena’s keen hearing picked up the sound of an arrow flying through the air. Not even turning her head, the warrior’s hand shot up and grabbed the projectile right out of midair, just in front of her face. Her eye’s then shifted to the side where she saw Dorian standing with a bow in his hand as he looked at the woman with a stunned expression on his face. Then looking at the arrow, Xena noticed that it matched the one that Gabrielle had been shot with and sniffed it to find that it too was laced with poison.

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) Poison, just like Gabrielle.

The warrior’s eye’s burned with rage as she tore her sword free from the soldier in front of her and leapt at Dorian. Seeing the woman coming toward him, the soldier tried to run, only to be grabbed from behind by the enraged woman and spun around before she drove the poisoned arrow into the man’s shoulder. Giving it a good twist, just to add a bit more pain,

XENA
(Sinister tone) Except I'm going to let you die quicker.

Xena then ripped it back out of the man’s flesh, getting a painful yelp in response.

XENA
(Sinister tone) But with far more pain.

The woman raised the arrow to stab him again, but was forced to push him away as more soldiers came at her. She cut down one man after another as they came toward her, and she spotted Dorian crawling away.

XENA
(Angry tone) That's right, crawl. Crawl for your fucking life!

Blood pooled on the ground around her as more and more bodies were laid out around Xena as she continued to fight. In the midst of the chaos, she found Dorian again as he made his way to where a fallen soldier laid, and saw him pull a small bottle from the man’s belt. Quickly, the man uncorked the container to drink its contents, only to have it snatched from his hand by the warrior woman.

XENA
You feeling better, now that you found your medicine?

He sneered at the woman as he grabbed his sword and stood, before charging at Xena with a furious yell. Standing firm as he rushed toward her, Xena waited until the very last moment before stepping just slightly to the side and let him run past her as she turned around. Having the woman so easily avoid him, Dorian sneered and spun to face her once again, only to let out a painful gasp as he felt Xena’s sword become buried in his stomach. His eyes locked with Xena’s that were colder than the steel buried in his flesh, as he tasted the blood that began to fill his mouth, and his legs began to buckle before he was kicked off of Xena’s sword to fall back onto the ground.

As more soldiers kept coming, Xena cut down one after another, after another. Carving through one, cutting down the next, and plunging her blade into another. Finally, as she gripped her sword’s blood soaked handle and yanked it from one more dead body, she looked to see the remaining Persian soldiers stop in their tracks as they looked at the lone warrior woman as if they had laid eyes on a real life monster. Her blood pumping and with a crazed look in her eyes as her body screamed with exhaustion that she had forced herself to push down, Xena raised her bloody blade to point at the drastically reduced number of remaining men standing before her.

XENA
Go home, there are thousands more like me!

Seeing the utter devastation that the woman had caused by herself, the invading soldiers knew they wouldn’t stand a chance if there were in fact more fighters of the same caliber as the warrior standing before them. So with no other option but to either stay and fight and likely die. Or leave and live to fight another day. The remainder of the army chose the latter, as they turned and fled the old, rundown building to return home in defeat.

Xena stood watching the men until the room was clear, and she quickly returned to where she had left Gabrielle.

XENA
Gabrielle?

The warrior moved to kneel beside the bard as she wiped what blood she could from her hands and got the small bottle out from where she was holding it after taking it from Dorian.

XENA
I have the antidote.

Not getting any kind of response, Xena feared the worst as a sinking feeling began to form in her stomach.

XENA
Gabrielle?

Again, the young woman didn’t react as the warrior reached out to gentle stroke the still woman’s cheek

XENA
Gabrielle? Hey, can you hear me?

No reaction still, Xena quickly lifted Gabrielle’s head slightly as she held the bottle containing the antidote to the young woman’s lips, forcing some of it into her mouth and down her throat.

XENA
Come on Gabrielle, just open your eyes.

Pouring a bit more of the liquid into the woman’s mouth, Xena watched as Gabrielle coughed a bit, and she quickly stopped pouring the antidote as she breathed a huge sigh of relief and let the blonde swallow the liquid she had been given and slowly opened her eyes to see the dark-haired warrior looking down at her.

GABRIELLE
(Tired tone) Are we dead?

Xena smiled softly.

XENA
No, not today. Here, drink this.

She held the bottle to Gabrielle’s mouth again as the bard took a few more swallows of the antidote before taking it away when the blonde coughed again.

XENA
There, that should do it.

Xena lowered the bard’s head back down and set the bottle aside.

GABRIELLE
(Tired/ joking tone) I thought that you said those guys were tough.

The warrior chuckled slightly as she laid down next to the blonde, completely exhausted, both mentally and physically.

XENA
Guess we caught ‘em on an off day.

Gabrielle looked over to the woman and noticed several cuts on her arms and legs.

GABRIELLE
(Tired tone) You're hurt.

XENA
I'm all right. It’s nothing serious. You just get some sleep. We'll be heading out in a few hours.

Closing her eyes, Xena settled down as she held Gabrielle’s hand, and the armory fell silent for a few moments until the bard spoke again.

GABRIELLE
(Tired tone) Xena?

XENA
Hmm?

GABRIELLE
(Tired tone) When we get to Thessaly, you still owe me a new pair of boots.

The warrior smiled slightly.

XENA
Sure thing Gabrielle. Whatever you want.

She sighed as her body finally gave way to exhaustion and began to drift off to sleep as she spoke.

XENA
Whatever you want.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

On a sunny day that appeared to be like any other, there was a loud ruckus in an otherwise peaceful temple as a man staggered through the doors in a desperate attempt to avoid his pursuers, of whom, were hot on his trail. He panted as he slammed the large doors behind him, and leaned back against them as he took a moment to catch his breath. Finally, after a moment when his breathing began to slow, the man stepped forward to move further into the large room as he called out.

?1
My goddess, I’m here.

The man looked around for a moment as he waited for any kind of response before receiving none and calling out again.

?1
My goddess?

?2
Yeah, yeah. I’m here.

The man turned around at the sound of the voice and dropped to a knee as he bowed his head to the deity that had just appeared before him.

?1
Aphrodite. It is my honor to be able to…

APHRODITE
Yeah, yeah, yeah. Worshiped goddess and all that.

The goddess waved her hand dismissively, clearly in a hurry to cut to the chase of their conversation.

APHRODITE
Well, Maecanus? Did you get it, or not?

MARCANUS
Oh. Yes, of course, my goddess.

The man reached into his shirt and retrieved a small pouch that he then handed over to the goddess, and watched as Aphrodite opened and dumped the contents into her hand.

APHRODITE
So this is the Mystic Diamond, huh?

The goddess held up the sizable gem as she took a moment to admire its beauty.

APHRODITE
Nice. Too bad I can't keep it.

The man gave her a look of confusion.

MAECANUS
What?! Then why did you just have me risk life and limb to get the thing if you aren’t even gonna keep it?

APHRODITE
Because it's a literal star from the night sky. Duh.

The love goddess rolled her eyes before returning to admiring the diamond.

APHRODITE
This little baby is gonna become the center of my constellation.

She casually tossed the diamond back to the man.

APHRODITE
Here, now take it to my priest in Parnassus. He's gonna shoot it into the night sky for me.

MAECANUS
I'll put it up there for you right now, most beautiful of goddesses.

He held out an arrow toward the goddess.

MAECANUS
Tie your gem on my arrow, so my shaft can bring you...satisfaction.

Aphrodite smirked at the obvious double entendre before reaching out and snapping the arrow.

APHRODITE
Trust me, you have no idea what would bring me satisfaction.

She put her hands on her hips as she continued.

APHRODITE
Look, just take the diamond to Pamassus. I got a guy there that’s gonna launch it into the sky for me. But you gotta be there by nightfall.

MAECANUS
As you wish my goddess.

The man bowed his head for a moment before returning his gaze toward Aphrodite.

MARCANUS
But there’s just one small problem.

APHRODITE
Yeah, yeah. Xena, her little bard, and their wanna-be tough guy friend are hot on your trail. Relax, I got just the thing to take care of them.

The goddess smirked as she snapped her fingers and a small bottle magically materialized in her hand.

APHRODITE
I call it 'Obsession.' One whiff of this stuff, and whatever you're thinking about at that minute turns into an overwhelming obsession.

The goddess motioned behind her.

APHRODITE
Now go. There's another way out, that way. You just leave the warrior princess and her pose to me.

Maecanus nodded before motioning to the rest of the men he had with him to follow as he hurried through the temple and out the back exit as Aphrodite smirked and disappeared just as a trio of travelers hurried into the temple.

GABRIELLE
How’s it even possible for Aphrodite to steal the North Star?

XENA
She stole the Mystic Diamond from the temple of the heavens.

The warrior stood looking for any signs of the men they had been pursuing.

XENA
And unless we get its powers back before nightfall, the North Star will go out, and the world will be in serious trouble. All travelers on land and sea look to the North Star as a guide. And it’s the Mystic Diamond's powers
that keeps it shining.

JOXER
So you mean without it, things that go bump in the night really will go bump in the night?

XENA
Exactly.

Xena looked toward Joxer who the two women had run back into some days before after having been on the road and having several more adventures since the warrior woman had single-handedly stopped the invasion of the Persian army against Greece. Of which Gabrielle had since made a full recovery from the poison that had nearly killed her thanks to the antidote Xena had managed to get off of an enemy soldier.

GABRIELLE
Xena, there's no sign of Maecanus.

The dark-haired woman began to scan the temple.

XENA
Look around and see if they could've stashed it somewhere around here.

In agreement, the trio spread out to look around the temple for the diamond.

While searching under tables and in baskets of various items left by some of Aphrodite’s worshipers in tribute to the goddess, Joxer came across an interesting series of paintings that he eyed with curiosity.

JOXER
What's this?

Gabrielle walked over to where the man stood and studied the painting for a moment.

GABRIELLE
Oh, that's the story of Attus, the ape-man, and the Princess, Gaea.

The young woman smiled as she recalled the tale that she had learned from another bard one night while she and Xena were staying at an inn.

GABRIELLE
It's actually quite the beautiful love story.

The bard moved on to continue to explore the temple as Joxer stayed looking at the painting in clear fascination with what the tale about the subject might be.

JOXER
Ape-man, huh?

Suddenly, unseen to Joxer or the others, Aphrodite appeared behind the man and with a smirk took out the bottle of obsession, sprinkled a bit of it onto him, and watched as he stood there for a moment and scratched his head and made an unintelligible grunt.

Moving along, Gabrielle stopped to look at a carved golden picture that hung on the wall, which depicted multiple people in various sexual positions. Some of which got a curious raise of an eyebrow from the bard, until her eyes fell on one pair in particular that she studied for a moment before turning to look over at Xena.

GABRIELLE
That's not humanly possible.

The warrior looked over to where the blonde stood, and after taking note of what the woman was pointing at, simply shrugged.

XENA
Sure it is.

Xena then returned to her examination of the temple as Gabrielle’s eyes went back to the mural on the wall and studied it a bit more as Aphrodite again appeared unseen to mortal eyes and poured some of the obsession mixture over her. After which, the bard smirked while looking at the mural, and out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Xena again as a series of thoughts began to flood her mind.

Meanwhile, Xena continued walking around the temple.

XENA
You know those guys Aphrodite had steal that diamond are probably headed for Parnassus.

The dark-haired woman stopped in front of the temple’s altar, where various items were laid out as offerings to the goddess.

XENA
The priest there is an expert astrologer. And who knows what stupid thing Aphrodite wants him to do with the thing?

Idly, Xena picked up a large fish that had been left there and gave it a sniff before grimacing at the smell of old fish as Aphrodite moved still unseen to where the woman stood.

APHRODITE
Okay, double dose for you, Warrior Babe.

Taking the bottle, the Goddess poured an extra large dose of the mixture over Xena as the warrior took a closer look at the fish in her hand.

APHRODITE
Big mistake. You're never getting that smell off your hands now.

Suddenly, Xena lowered her arm and turned toward Gabrielle and Joxer.

XENA
That settles it. The North Star is on the verge of extinction. And now the fate of the whole world lies in our hands. Which means there’s only one thing we can do now.

The warrior held up her arm again.

XENA
Time to go fishing.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

It was a short time later after Xena, Gabrielle, and Joxer had left Aphrodite’s temple, and the trio had made a brief stop along the road as Xena made another flying parchment, much like the one she had made to take down the giant Gareth.

GABRIELLE
It's beautiful, absolutely beautiful. The way it dips and curves?

The warrior looked over as Gabrielle walked up beside her.

XENA
The parchment's not supposed to dip and curve. It’s supposed to stay still up there.

GABRIELLE
Parchment?

The bard chuckled.

GABRIELLE
Oh no, I was talking about your waist and the way it makes me think of how it's the perfect spot to hold when…

XENA
Yeah, yeah, yeah.

The warrior cut Gabrielle off, not paying much attention to what the blonde was saying.

XENA
Look, that clip is supposed to release when you tug on that line. Go on, grab it.

GABRIELLE
Why?

XENA
Would you just do it?

GABRIELLE
(Sighing) Fine.

The blonde reached up to grab the clip that was tied to the flying parchment, only to have it soar higher out of her reach and stopped trying to look at the warrior with a sarcastic smirk on her face.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Very funny.
You know, I can think of plenty of other things that would involve me stretched out, and out of breath that I’d much rather be doing right now.

XENA
What?

The dark-haired woman eyed the bard for a moment, her words finally registering and catching Xena a bit by surprise by the obvious hints of what the bard clearly had on her mind. Especially since it wasn’t just the two of them around, but decided to not address it.

XENA
(Slightly annoyed tone) Gabrielle, just grab the damn line, will ya?

Again Gabrielle jumped to try to grab the string, and again the breeze moved the parchment and the string out of her reach.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed tone) Xena, if you think I'm gonna waste my time jumping up and down for flying parchment…

XENA
It is not a waste of time. I just…

The warrior was unable to finish her thought when Gabrielle cut in.

GABRIELLE
Oh, I get it.

The blonde smirked as she continued.

GABRIELLE
You’re enjoying the show of watching me jump around, aren’t you? You do tend to enjoy a little teasing before getting right down to it.

The warrior gave her a blank stare for a moment.

XENA
(Lying) Yeah, sure, that’s definitely the reason.
(Thinking to herself) Geez, what’s got her so worked up today?

The younger woman smiled.

GABRIELLE
(Seductive tone) Well, I do aim to please.

Gabrielle jumped a couple more times until finally grabbing hold of the string.

GABRIELLE
Got it!

She then began to sensually run her free hand up her body until she reached and lightly cupped one of her breasts.

GABRIELLE
(Seductive tone) Now, what?

Suddenly, the flying parchment dropped from the sky, landing on top of the bard and knocking her to the ground.

XENA
Mmm, still needs some minor adjustments.

Walking over to where Gabrielle was laid out, Xena picked up the kite and began to examine it.

XENA
I guess I can just make 'em up at the lake.

Gabrielle sat up.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, I guess being in water probably would make doing some of that stuff a lot easier.

The bard looked around for a moment.

GABRIELLE
Hey, where’s Joxer?

XENA
Over there.

The raven-haired woman pointed toward a fallen tree, and Gabrielle’s eyes followed to see Joxer crouched beside it as the man picked up a stick and put it into a small hole in the wood.

GABRIELLE
What’s he doing?

The young woman continued to watch the man as, after a moment, he pulled the stick back out to find a large insect attached to the other end.

JOXER
Mmm. Bug.

Then in one swift motion, Joxer took the bug off the stick, tilted his head back, and dropped the insect into his open mouth, causing Gabrielle to gag in response.

GABRIELLE
That is so disgusting.

Not wanting to continue to watch Joxer eat his lunch of the small creepy, crawlers, Gabrielle turned her focus back to Xena.

GABRIELLE
Xena, I think there’s something wrong with Joxer. He's been acting very strange. Maybe we should be seen in public with him.

XENA
He's acting strange because something happened to him at the temple. I had to guess, I’d say this is Aphrodite’s doing. She probably put some kind of spell on him. And now he's obsessed with that ape-man story.

GABRIELLE
Huh, I guess that would certainly explain it.

The bard looked back toward Joxer for a moment as he sat still crouched, picking through his hair for any more bugs while making a series of ape-like grunts.

XENA
You know, you’ve got the obsession thing, too.

GABRIELLE
What?

The blonde’s focus returned to Xena as the warrior continued trying to keep her flying parchment airborne.

XENA
Ooh, yeah.

Gabrielle scoffed before letting out a small chuckle.

GABRIELLE
That’s ridiculous.

Xena eyed the younger woman, who began to run her fingertips along the warrior’s arm

XENA
Is it?

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Okay, Xena, I’ll play along,
(Seductive tone) Then maybe after we can do a different kind of playing, Xena. You know, I have some new ideas I wanna try that I think you might like.

She leaned closer to the dark-haired woman as her hand sensually glided to Xena’s midsection.

GABRIELLE
(Seductive tone) But please, tell me, what am I supposedly obsessed with?

XENA
Sex.

Gabrielle chuckled at the thought.

GABRIELLE
That's ridiculous, Xena. If I were to say which of either of us was “obsessed”…

The bard used her fingers to mimic air quotes as she continued.

GABRIELLE
with sex, it would be you.

The warrior raised an eyebrow.

XENA
Oh, really?

She smirked as the bard's hand fell back on her.

XENA
Because if your hand goes any lower, Joxer’s gonna get quite an eyeful.

The bard lowered her eyes to realize that she had placed her hand right over the front of the other woman’s skirt and against her groin. Suddenly feeling incredibly embarrassed, Gabrielle quickly took her hand away as she for the first time took note of the images from the temple that had seemed to become burned into her mind.

GABRIELLE
All right. So maybe you’re right. I just can’t seem to stop thinking about that mural from Aphrodite’s temple. But, if we're all obsessed with something, what about you? What are you obsessed with?

Xena shrugged.

XENA
Well, that's the good news. For whatever reason, I don’t seem to have been affected by the spell. So even though the two of you are distracted, I can still take care of business.

The warrior gathered her kite under her arm as she continued and began walking away.

XENA
Now, let's fish.

TO BE CONTINUED…

Chapter Text

The trio walked down a dirt road as Xena tried to figure out how they were going to retrieve the Mystic Diamond from the men Aphrodite used to steal it for her own use.

GABRIELLE
I still don't see why we didn't bring Argo.

XENA
I let Argo roam free for a while. I need to concentrate on the mission at hand.