THE RETURN
by Anita Louise
XENA WARRIOR PRINCESS
The Return:
What a momentous, action packed ride. Take this incredible journey with Xena
and Gabrielle. The Xena and Gabrielle we have all come to know and love.
With each step you will become a traveler with them. Journey with them in
their desperate fight with the Gods as well as several old and new nemeses,
if they cannot win then they will be lost forever. Laugh with them, fight
with them cry with them. You will feel their frustration, their anger, their
tears of sadness and joy. The Return an incredible adventure. An ending that
will give you chills and show you the true bonds of friendship and love.
Violence Warning/Disclaimer:
This story depicts scenes of violence and/or their aftermath. Readers who
are disturbed by or sensitive to this type of depiction may wish to read
something other than this story.
It follows the television series in the respect of violence, subtext, the
closeness the two women share. There are not explicit sex scenes.
Hurt/Comfort Warning Disclaimer:
This story may be best classified as a Hurt/Comfort Story involving the
characters of Xena Warrior Princess. Readers who are disturbed by or
sensitive to this type of issue may wish to read something other than this
story.
The television series: Xena Warrior Princess belongs to MCA/Universal...
This is merely one fan's story about the travels of our beloved couple.
PROLOGUE
The smell of the rancid air still seemed to fill her nostrils. It had been
awhile since she and Gabrielle had arrived at Potidaea, Gabrielle's home
village. Gabrielle needed rest and Xena felt this was the place for it. As
she watched the young woman practice with her staff she could see the
difficulties she was having in some of her movements. Xena marveled at how
well Gabrielle was doing after the serious injury she had sustained at
Thessaly.
When they found themselves in the forest, she and Gabrielle had argued a bit
about what route they should have taken. Gabrielle had said that they should
have taken the Southern route and Xena had said that this way was shorter.
It was during this time the two women ran into the crossfire of the
Thessalian defense and the Matoan advance.
They found themselves in the middle of a blood bath. It was a war like no
other they had been through. The Matoans were not taking any prisoners, they
were killing the woman and children as well as the men. Xena and Gabrielle
found themselves in the Thessalian Healing temple which was the only
sanctuary in the area. Here Thessalians and Matoans lay wounded. Xena
quickly took over command of the situation and, with Gabrielle's assistance,
they began to sift through the wounded and dying, trying to save as many as
they could. It seemed at times to be hopeless. Xena could still hear the
screams of the man whose leg she had cut off, and the cries of the dying.
She could also hear through this mound of fear, the joyful cries of
happiness as she delivered Ephiny's baby.
It was during this time that a wounded man asked Gabrielle if someone could
go out to the tree by the stream and save his young boy, who was hiding
there. Gabrielle, being the very kind person she is, left the protection of
the temple to oblige the man.
She ran into a Matoan who was out for blood. Gabrielle would not kill but
she did try to defend herself and during the process was seriously wounded.
When Xena saw them carry the wounded body of her friend into the temple she
was horrified. She had stitched up many, and tended many but this was not
just anyone this was Gabrielle. This was the person who had become so
important in her life that she would have given her own life to save her at
any moment and now she was wounded. Xena did the best she could to sew up
Gabrielle's wounds. She tried to comfort her and now wished she had taken
the Southern route.
During this time Gabrielle went into convulsions and stopped breathing. Xena
was beside herself with worry, she tried everything she could to bring the
woman back but nothing seemed to work. Everyone around her told her to let
Gabrielle cross over peacefully to let her go. Something inside her would
not let this happen. She couldn't accept this, and she kept trying to revive
her. She used mouth to mouth resuscitation. She did everything she could and
at the end when she knew that she had lost Gabrielle she let herself go. She
cried, and begged Gabrielle to come back to her. During these moments,
wherever Gabrielle's soul was, she heard the Warrior Princess calling her
and she did come back. As she gathered the woman into her arms, Xena had
never been so happy. She told her, "Everything was going to be all right."
When the Thessalian and the Matoans finally made peace, Xena was happy that
the war was over. She was also happy to see that Gabrielle was on her way to
recovery, although not well, yet she was doing better. She would never
forget Gabrielle's words when she said to her, 'We have so many wars to
fight and despots to foil, your going to need my help.'
Xena smiled remembering the words she had spoken, "I couldn't do it without
you. But you're going to need some rest."
Chapter One
An Ill Wind Cometh
There was a soft wind blowing down the canyon. The tree limbs were gently
moving and the grass was weaving back and forth, as the palomino chased it
with her mouth. Argo didn't know why they had been in one spot for so long
but she was getting used to this lazy life. She nodded her head in her
masters direction and yes, she was still watching her friend. Argo never
really liked Gabrielle and wondered why Xena was always whispering in her
ear telling her to be nice to the woman.
That is until the day she took over for Xena when she was so sick. It was
then that Argo realized that this person was more than she seemed. And after
many travels, Argo could now see what Xena saw in her friend. The two of
them would give their life for the other and so the least Argo could do was
the same. It seemed the right thing to do. Argo had never been so happy,
after all Xena now had a close friend and she wasn't as grumpy as she had
been in the past. She even smiled once in a while. Yes, this was the life.
Xena set on the hillside looking down at Gabrielle practicing with her
staff, "Be careful, don't over do it."
Gabrielle looked up smiling as she waved, "It's all right, I'll just
practice a bit." Gabrielle took her stance and began to put the staff
through its paces. She had to admit that certain moves still caused her to
cringe in pain but she couldn't let her friend see this because when Xena
got ready to go she was going to go with her. She knew that if Xena knew
about the pain she wouldn't let her. Gabrielle bit her lower lip and
continued.
She heard the sound and looked up to see a staff flying at her. With the
left hand she reached out and caught it but not before she grimaced in pain.
She felt the strong hand grasp it from her and heard the cold voice as Xena
said, "I knew it, you have been faking your health. When are you going to
learn, you will never get well if you keep hiding it."
Gabrielle replied, "It's not every day I am almost hit by a staff flying at
me. You could have prepared me."
Xena reached out to grab her friends staff, taking it she asked, "Just how
are you feeling?"
Gabrielle could now see the concern in Xena's face, setting down she said,
"Ok, so I'm not in perfect health yet, that's the operative word, yet but I
will be. That's why I've been practicing so much. Besides you have been
watching me like a hawk." She reached out a hand and took Xenas right one in
hers as she pulled her down to the ground. Xena set crossing her legs
looking intently into her friends eyes and asked, "What's the matter?"
Gabrielle smiled as she said, "We have never spoke of this, but we need to
Xena, it happened and we have to talk about it." Xena looked away, "It
happened that's, that."
Gabrielle said, "No, that's not that. Xena I know you practically sold your
soul to Hades trying to get me to come back from the other side, I also know
what a toll this has taken on you. I know all that you did because Ephiny
has told me. Xena I really think that if I had died, you would have gone
back to your dark side."
Xena looked down, "I, I don't know I only know I realized if I had lost you,
I had nothing to live for. After all if someone as caring as you died... It
would have been my fault for insisting we take the short cut I would never
have forgiven myself. You are probably right and before you say it, I know I
promised you but things change. Anyway you're here and I will not make that
mistake again."
"That's what I'm afraid of, Xena you have to put that in the back of your
mind, I will still be with you and I will travel with you, but you have to
let me fight my own battles, you cannot be there all the time. I need to be
with you and I need to know this will not cause you any more pain."
Xena said, "I'm not the maternal type, Gabrielle but I will continue to take
care of you, I haven't told you this but we will be leaving here in a day or
two. I received a message from Toris and I have to go home, there is trouble
with a war lord who is trying to take the valley."
Gabrielle looked concerned, "Oh, Xena, I'm sorry, you probably would be
there if it wasn't for me."
"Don't start that, we will get you well and then we, we'll both go, there is
time."
"Hey you two."
They looked up to see Gabrielle's sister, Lila heading in their direction
"Boy you two are hard to find, When are you coming back to the village. They
are planning a celebration of your recovery Gabrielle and also to Xena
because she brought you back to us."
Gabrielle and Xena stood up Gabrielle said, "They shouldn't have done that,
after all it should just be a celebration thanking the Gods that we are both
here right now."
Xena laughed and said, "Your so right Lila, it's time we had a little fun,
couldn't hurt to listen to some good music, dance a little, and have a good
feast, besides Gabrielle, the food will help you regain your health sooner.
And I've never known you to turn away from that.
Gabrielle tapped Xena on the shoulder and said, "Would be worth it just to
see you dance."
Xena raised two fingers and pointed them at Gabrielle and said, "Oh no,
that's your speed, you'll never catch me doing that, but it is fun to
watch."
Back at the village Lila approached Xena, "Xena."
The woman turned and answered, "Yeah" "I want to thank you again for all you
have done for my sister, I don't know what I would do if I lost her."
Xena smiled "She is a wonderful person and the world would be lost without
her spirit and kindness. As I have said before, It was Gabrielle that
decided to come back I was merely there."
"Well I know better and so does Gabrielle but Xena, I have noticed you have
been looking tired, are you all right, maybe this has all been to much for
you. I have seen you attending to Gabrielle, and I know that worry can be a
terrible thing to have to carry, I owe you so much."
Xena took Lila's left hand in hers and said, "I have been repaid a million
times, just having your sister as my friend. So lets forget the thanks and
just enjoy the celebration." Lila smiled as she turned to go help with the
food.
Xena was beginning to feeling faint and she went into one of the huts, she
found a pan of water and began to splash water onto her face.
"What's wrong?" Xena whirled to see Gabrielle looking concerned. "Nothing,
just washing some of the dirt off."
Gabrielle threw her a towel and said, "You know, I really miss our dips in
the lake. Now that's the way to clean up, besides it can be an adventure,
and so much fun. Remember the fishing, bet you thought I'd never catch it."
Xena looked away, "No, I knew you'd get the hang of it, after all we had
only been practicing for months. It was worth it to see the look on your
face when you came up with that fish in your hand. I have to admit you are
getting really good, almost as good as me." (laughs as she throws the towel
at Gabrielle.)
Everyone seemed to be having a good time that evening, the music played and
they danced around the fire.
Xena wouldn't let Gabrielle join in. "I would rather you set here by me,
don't need you over doing it after today. Besides there will be plenty of
time to dance. Remember we have to go see Ephiny for the Celebration Of Life
Festival, the Amazons are having."
"Oh, yeah that's right, after all it was them that taught me most of the
things I know because a certain person wouldn't."
Xena wrinkled her nose at Gab.
The celebration went on into the night and toward early morning one could
see people laying about, some huddled together and others leaning up against
trees. Xena felt a blow to her back and immediately knew Gabrielle was
having another bad dream. She rolled over to catch her friends hands which
were beginning to strike out, she whispered, "Shhh, it's all right, it's
over. I'm here, your safe, Gabrielle, wake up."
Gabrielle opened her eyes, they were filled with terror and pain. This broke
Xenas's heart she couldn't stand to see her friend in such torment.
Tears began to roll down Gabrielle's face. Xena pulled her close as she
rocked her in her arms and began to hum the song that Gabrielle loved to
hear. Soon Gabrielle was fast asleep. Xena laid her back down covering her
with a blanket.
She set staring into the coming Dawn and said, "I am so sorry, If I could
take it all back, I would have gone the other direction. I only hope you
will forgive me..."
A cold wind could be felt blowing in from the hills and Argo knew that the
life of luxury was over, her master had saddled the horse and she could tell
things were different. Before long Xena and Gabrielle came out of the hut.
Gabrielle was hugging her sister and thanking her for letting them stay and
for taking care of them.
"I am just happy you are ok, and that you have such a good friend as Xena.
If you two ever need anything, you remember to come here." After a few hugs
and kisses the two of them were on their way, Gabrielle on Argo and Xena
walking, Argo thought, This was different usually Gabrielle walked.
Gabrielle looked down at Xena "You know, you really should be riding, I can
walk."
"No, No, I'm loving every minute of it, as soon as you get your strength we
can switch. If I get tired I'll ride up with you. For now we are going to be
taking it slow."
"Xena, are you all right?"
The warrior looked up at her and said, "I'm fine but will be better when I
reach home." They traveled most of the day and when Xena found a stream she
decided to put up camp. Gabrielle went to get fire wood and she went to get
some water. While at the stream she noticed a fish jump and thought, that
would be good eating, much better than bread or cheese. She put down the
bucket and proceeded to fix a stick, sharpening it. She went and set
watching as the fish would come up out of the water and go back down. She
waited and then, bam, without warning the fish was on the stick she raised
it out of the water and smiled being very pleased with herself. She walked
over, picked up the bucket and headed for the camp.
Gabrielle was setting down the wood, looking up she said, "Fish, wow, thank
the Gods, but how?"
Xena handed the fish to her, "It's your turn, fix it, one day I'll show you
this trick."
Gabrielle took the fish and turned, "You know there are plenty of horse
tracks back in the woods, looks like there have been a lot of people there.
I would say an army of some sort."
Xena looked worried, "I'll go take a look, you stay close to camp, be back."
Gabrielle was right, Xena knelt down and surveyed some of the tracks she
laid the palm of her hand over one and grimaced she knew the person the
horse belonged to, Draco, he was close, heading for her village.
She wouldn't tell Gabrielle, no need to worry her. She would go back and
tell her that it was probably a band of wanderers, nothing to be concerned
about but she would keep her eyes open.
That night they dined on fish, bread and cheese, with nut bread for desert.
Xena was happy, she glanced at her friend, whose strawberry, blond hair
seemed to be dancing in the light of the campfire.
And to think I wanted nothing to do with her when she first approached me,
Ephiny was right, Gabrielle grows on you, after all Ephiny was always asking
Xena how she put up with Gabrielle and now the two of them were the best of
friends. Ephiny and Gabrielle both Amazons one born to it an the other
through fate. When watching the two of them it was as if they never disliked
each other. Yes, not only had Gabrielle grown but also Ephiny.
Xena was feeling warm from the fire and she was full. Gabrielle was walking
about humming and Argo was grazing nearby. Xena thought if Draco wasn't
looming in the picture this was what made life worth living. Not realizing
just how tired she was she set back feeling the warmth of the fire listening
to the lovely humming of her friend she drifted off to sleep.
Gabrielle walked over seeing Xena sleeping she smiled, taking a blanket she
placed it over her and went back to cleaning up.
A Scream woke Xena, jumping to her feet, she felt the stabbing pain across
the back of her head, and fell forward. Seeing Gabrielle in the clutches of
a man, she shook her head trying to see clearer.
"Good to see you again my beloved." Draco, the voice was Draco's, once again
she underestimated him. Thinking he had traveled on and he had doubled back.
"Let her go, Draco, it's me you want not her."
He belted out a sadistic laugh, "Your right, it's you but I have found the
only way to get to you is through your little friend here. Everyone knows
how you brought her back from the dead and how you have been hovering over
her taking care to see she gets well. Now I have her and I have you. You see
Xena, I can get you to do what I want, as long as I have your pesky little
friend." He twisted Gabrielle's arm as she cried out.
Xena still shaking her head said, "Let her go, I will do what you want."
"No, No my pet. I know you will do what I want, as long as I have my knife
at your friends throat. Don't get any ideas, I would kill her without
hesitation. But right now I need your help."
Gabrielle yelled, "No, Xena, don't listen to him."
"You win, Draco. I will not do anything, don't hurt her. I will do what you
want."
He handed Gabrielle over to one of his men and said, "Take her to my tent, I
have to talk with Xena."
Xena felt helpless as she watched them lead her friend off. She was brought
back by Draco as he reached down grabbing her by the hair and pulled her to
her feet. Without warning his fist slammed into Xena's stomach. She doubled
over feeling another blow and then another. She crumpled to the ground
folding, feeling the boot, kick her over. She looked up to see Draco smiling
down at her, "That's only a start of what I owe you, just think of it this
way, you take the blows and I won't have to harm your little friend." He
turned to a guard, "Tie her up, I have to go see to my other prisoner."
Xena pleaded, "Please, don't hurt her. If you hurt her, I'll kill you. There
will be no place you can hide."
He laughed as he walked off.
Xena let the guard tie her up and pull her over to a tree as he bound her to
it. She was feeling extreme pain in her stomach but knew she had to make
herself stay alert. She had to keep an eye on Draco's tent. If she heard one
sound that meant Gabrielle was being harmed the ropes that held her would be
gone in and instant. But she could do nothing for fear he would carry out
his threat and kill her friend. She would have to bide her time.
Thinking back she had, had the chance to kill Draco and she let him go. She
faintly whispered, "One day you'll learn Xena, some people just can't be
trusted."
The next day they had picked up camp and were beginning to mount up, getting
ready to move on. Draco came out of his tent pulling a bound Gabrielle
behind him. She was trying to keep up with the man all the while her eyes
were darting around looking for Xena. There she was, her friend looked
haggard. She had dried blood about the mouth; she knew the man had hurt her,
"I must pray to the gods, to please help her, even Ares, who loves Xena very
much must be knowing what is going on, maybe he will help her."
Xena's eyes met Gabrielle's and she could feel the fire that was in her
friends eyes she shook her head as if to tell Gabrielle to be calm, not to
start anything. She tried to smile just to let her know it was all right. If
one could call the situation they were in, all right.
Gabrielle smiled back and then she said, "What have you done to Xena? What
is wrong with you, you'd be dead if it wasn't for her."
Draco lifted her up into the saddle as he climbed up behind her "She'll be
fine, your friend is a strong person and she's alive because she didn't kill
me, so think of that."
"I.... Can I go to her?"
He yelled, "Tie her to the horse she can keep up behind it walking or
running,"
"No, Please she's hurt, let her ride, I'll walk."
He snarled, "Really you two are something else. If Xena had never met you
she would not be in this mess and if you had never met her you wouldn't be
in this mess. So it looks like your fates have been sealed. Set back and
enjoy the ride. Lets go." He waved his men on.
As the horses started off, Xena felt the ropes tightening around her wrists.
She found herself running to keep up with them. A few times she stumbled,
falling and was dragged a small distance but she managed to regain her
footing, she would not let this man win. He would pay.
By the end of the day they had reached the plateau above Xena's village. He
ordered his men to dismount. When the horse stopped, Xena fell to the
ground. Her legs were shaking and her wrists were throbbing, she could see
the blood around the ropes. She knew that her wrists had been bleeding. She
sighed. "What's the matter? I thought the woman warrior was stronger than
this."
She looked into Draco's face "Try keeping up with a running horse all day
while being tied to it, Draco, it might improve your disposition." She never
even saw the boot coming at her but she felt it. She blacked out.
"Wake up, sleepy head, wake up." Xena felt the boot on her chest, there was
something about the rhythmic sound of the voice. She felt a chill run over
her body as she focused her eyes on the form towering above her. The blond
hair, the evil smile, the cold brown eyes, her worst nightmare had become a
reality. There stood Callisto, looking no worse for wear. Last time she had
seen her she was in chains heading for jail. How? What are you doing here?
"Well Xena, I told you we would meet again and under different
circumstances. Draco said you shunned every advance of his and every offer
he made you. Well I'm not that stupid. Together the two of us have made an
invincible army. Our only problem would have been you but with your pesky
friend ours so are you."
"Don't count your chickens before they are hatched, You will not win."
She shifted her weight causing more pressure on Xena's chest, "Chickens,
couldn't you think of anything more timely like a Hydra? Tssk, tssk you are
slipping Xena. I can see that Draco has made you right at home."
Xena realized the spot she was in as she said, "Look Callisto, I hold you no
ill will, what you have done in the past is your concern, you will have to
atone for that. But here, now. Think, joining Draco will only get you
killed."
"By who Xena, surely not you. You are bound up like a pig to slaughter.
Surely you don't think I fear you."
>From a tent came the cry, "Callisto, get in here." The woman looked away and
Xena asked, "What's the matter, your master call?"
Callisto said, "Don't you wish. No one is my master and Draco will soon
learn that. I will be back and we can finish our little discussion. Don't
worry your friend is now in good hands, mine!" She turned and walked away.
Xena strained at the ropes binding her hands. Realizing this was futile she
set up looking down at her breasts and closed her eyes mustering up all the
air she could get into her lungs. She prayed to the gods that she would have
the strength to perform this one more time. As she exhaled the dagger she
kept there popped out flying up, and as it came down she caught it with her
hands. She had used this many times and every time she thought about how
Gabrielle had come out of the shop looking so smugly, standing so straight
and tall. She had asked her if something was wrong, telling Gabrielle she
looked different, as her friend puffed up and said, 'No it was just the
air.' Then it fell, Gabrielle tried to make an excuse how the dagger got
into her clothes.
Xena had picked it up and put it between her own breasts, she knew it
wouldn't fall through on her. No it would set snugly, until she might need
it.
Gabrielle had told her she didn't need it because her breasts were dangerous
enough. She couldn't help but smile when thinking about her. Gabrielle's
face had turned a rich red from the embarrassment. Yes, her friend kept her
on her toes and she couldn't help but marvel at Gabrielle wanting to grow
up, It was as if she wanted to experience everything all at once. If only
she knew that sooner or later there was no going back, "Thank you Gabrielle
for buying this and I'm really glad it didn't fit."
She quickly untied her hands finishing with her feet. Her wrists were
covered with blood. She moved her hands slowly in and out trying to get the
circulation back into them. Holding the dagger she silently crawled toward
the horses. A guard was standing leaning his back to a tree. He never even
heard Xena creep up and before he knew it she put one hand over his mouth
and with the other she slit his throat as she said, "One less of Draco's men
to contend with."
She quickly found Argo and saddled her, leading the horse into the bushes
she tied her. Creeping back into the camp. She squinted her eyes focusing on
the surroundings. Draco had built up a big army and with Callisto joining
she was right, they would be hard to stop.
She centered her attention on Draco's tent. Although her wrists were
stinging with every move she whispered, "Come on Xena, you have to focus.
Gabrielle is the important one now."
Making it slowly to the back of the tent she proceeded to cut a slit into
the material. Making sure it was silent. She took a hand and opened the
flap. Surveying the inside she immediately saw Gabrielle laying on her back,
her hands, and feet tied to stakes.
She felt a stir within her, it was one she had, had before but could not
make any meaning of. The first time it had happened when Gabrielle had
reached over touching her hand, as she smiled telling Xena she could be so
clumsy. Gab's eyes had sparkled and danced as the words flew at Xena and she
was perplexed at them. 'For someone who can fall Giants, Hydras, Armies, and
Gods you are so nieve in somethings, Xena.'
Xena had fallen deep into Marcus's world and she had sworn when she lost him
that she would never feel again for that which would make her so vulnerable.
Yet the feeling was there. She chose to believe it was because she had been
beaten so mercilessly. Her senses were not as they should be. She knew she
was tired and her head was feeling fuzzy. What the cause, she only knew that
deep within she had a stirring she could not understand.
"If I never do another thing I have to get Gabrielle out of here."
Callisto tried to kill her before and she knew that Draco would not be able
to keep her from harming her friend.
Gabrielle was sleeping soundly, Xena put her hand over her friends mouth.
The eyes flew open in terror as Xena put a finger to her lips, "Shhh, I've
come to get you out of here."
She quickly cut the ropes loose and led Gabrielle out of the tent. The two
of them made their way to the bushes and a waiting Argo. Xena jumped into
the saddle reaching down for Gabrielle's hand she pulled her up behind her
urging, "Go Argo." The horse reared her head and began to gallop into the
forest. Gabrielle held onto Xena's waist laying her head against Xena's
back. She didn't say anything she was just so glad to see her friend and to
be with her again. The questions would come later but for now she felt
content.
Gabrielle reached down with her right hand feeling her stomach. As she
thought, I must be hungry for my stomach feels so different. She felt as if
someone had taken her and turned her upside down, hanging her over a high
cliff. For she felt as if her insides were up into her throat. Never had she
felt like this before she must remember to talk to Xena about this. There
must be some new sickness going around. They needed to go the see Hestia and
get a drink of the water there at the shrine. It was supposed to help health
and family.
Xena felt the wind against her cheeks, felt her hair blowing in the breeze
and felt Gabrielle's arms around her waist. She was glad she was able to
free her friend and she was glad to have her with her again. For now they
were heading for Xena's village to get them ready for Draco and Callisto's
army. Which would be coming down on them as soon as they knew Xena had
escaped and had taken Gabrielle.
Gabrielle said, "Thank you, you have saved my life again."
Xena answered, "Glad to have you back, we have a lot of work to do. As a
team we can't be beat."
She called, "Go Argo, Go." A smile crossing her face.
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Chapter Two
PREPARATION
As Argo's mighty legs took them into the village of Amphipolis a villager
could be heard yelling. "It's Xena, It's Xena!"
Xena pulled back on the reins as the horse slid to a stop. She helped
Gabrielle down and flew off onto the ground. Gabrielle stood staring at her
in amazement. She always marveled at the way Xena dismounted. She remembered
there was one time that she tried it and landed on the ground in a heap,
looking up at a smiling Xena.
Toris came running out of the tavern a wide smile across his face until he
saw the faces of the two women. "Xena, What's the matter? Your face..."
Xena scowled, "Never mind that, we have work to do."
Toris reached out to greet Gabrielle noticing she even seemed paler than
usual. "All right, Gabrielle, someone tell me what is going on, I can see
that Argo has been run hard, she is covered with lather. I know that you
wouldn't do that unless there was a good reason."
"Xena, Xena, you've come home." She turned to see her mother running toward
her. Reaching out her arms she embraced the woman. "You should have let us
know that you would be here, we could have prepared a feast."
Xena looked into her mothers eyes and said, "Mother try not to be alarmed."
"No, don't tell me something has happened to you. "Her mother now had a look
of dread in her eyes.
Xena took her right hand in hers and said, "Mother, we have come to warn you
and the villagers of an impending attack."
Toris swung her around and said, "All right, tell us, what has happened."
Xena replied, "Its Draco and Callisto, they have formed a union and they are
at this time probably bearing down on the valley."
He said, "There's more to this than that. What has happened?"
"I don't know about Gabrielle but I could use a drink lets go inside and I
will fill you in."
They all turned to walk into the tavern. Her mother went and got them
something to drink as she brought it over to the table she set the tray
down. Gabrielle reached out and took a goblet waiting for the others to get
theirs.
Xena set back in the chair, raising one leg she let it fall onto the table.
Her mother gave her a scathing look but didn't say anything. They all waited
for her to speak and finally after she drank down all the port in the goblet
she said, "I really needed that, ask Mendia to bring me another." Toris
smiled and called to the young woman at the counter and she walked over to
them. Smiling she went to bring some more port to the table.
Xena reached up to wipe her mouth and grimaced. Gabrielle reached out and
said, "Don't, Xena, I need to tend to that. You have a bad bruise and an
ugly cut on your mouth."
The woman replied, "I had forgotten, I have so many things on my mind. And
that's not one of them."
Her mother reached out touching her cut with her hand and said, "Gabrielle's
right, you need to have this cleaned."
"You two, worrying about a silly cut, we have more important things to tend
to, Toris we have to get the villagers together and tell them what has
happened. Those that want to stay and fight can and those that chose to run
can. These two people are a wicked lot and I won't begrudge any one who
runs."
Toris jumped up and said, "Well I won't run this time and I will fight to
the death."
"Don't be a fool brother, I have lost Lycias and I don't want to lose you
also and there is mother to think about."
"Don't worry about me, I can fight with the best of them."
"I know you can mother but I don't want to see you stand and fight the likes
of them. Besides if I know Callisto and Draco they will try to get to you
and to Gabrielle as well as Toris. They will try to hit me where it hurts
and that includes all of you."
Gabrielle set down her goblet and said, "She's right you know, they captured
me. Thank the Gods Xena saved me. Maybe you should go."
Xena slanted her eyes toward Gabrielle and said, "You too."
Gabrielles blue green eyes shot sparks at her as she said, "Not me, I will
stand by you. I'm not running and you can forget that right now. Now lets
talk strategy."
She was happy that her brother had not been idle since his return home. For
he already had trenches that were dug, covered with straw and wood. He had
barricades ready to put up if need be and he had an ample supply of weapons.
He told Xena that their mother was not happy with what he had done but he
was glad he had done it.
Gabrielle tugged at Xena's right arm and she turned to look at her. "Xena,
it looks like Toris was already prepared for something like this to have
happened."
Xena looked down at her and replied, "It's better to be prepared. We could
never get this place into any position to withstand what is coming and even
with all this, I'm not sure."
Her friends eyes glistened, "I have no doubt that you will be able to. Just
think about yourself don't get side tracked over me or Toris. You know
that's how they get you every time."
"Well not every time but your right if Callisto can get her hands on you or
Toris my fight is gone. I will not be responsible for the death of either of
you, you know that. And by the Gods if anything were to happen to you I..."
Gabrielle reached out and took her right hand in hers, "It's ok, nothing is
going to happen to me and right now you just have to think about Callisto
and Draco, prepare yourself for what's coming. I know that you can do it."
Xena smiled as she looked into her friend's wondrous eyes and gave her hand
a squeeze, "What would I ever do without you."
Turning she went to talk strategies with Toris as Gabrielle ran to catch up.
Xena and Toris gave their mother a hug good-by and reassured her everything
was going to be all right. When the few carts left the village Toris rode
with them he wanted to make sure they made it to the fork in the road then
he would return. Gabrielle gave him a startled glance and he said, "It's all
right, Gabrielle, I will be back, I won't let you two and the rest, face
them without me." He rode off and Xena even wondered if it was the last they
would see of him. She would reserve her opinion until the sun hid in the
great waters and darkness fell then she would know.
Watching one of the men struggling while trying to put up a barricade she
rushed to help him. She grabbed the heavy wagon just as it was about to fall
on the man. Pushing it back, he reached up and helped her set it down.
"Thank you Xena, It could have killed me."
She stood motionless as she said, "It's all right, go be with your family, I
will call you when it starts." Gabrielle had a special sense inside of her
that seemed to know when Xena was in trouble, within seconds she was by her
side and her hands had already reached out as if to catch her.
As if she could hold Xena up but she could soften her fall and that is
exactly what happened. Xena fell as Gabrielle grabbed for her. They both
landed with a thud. Staring into Gabrielle's eyes she said, "Thanks, you
make a great cushion." Gabrielle stared into Xena's bottomless blue eyes as
if mesmerized.
Xena rolled off onto the ground with a groan. She didn't move. Gabrielle was
on her side getting to her knees she said, "Xena, what's wrong?"
Xena answered, "Guess I'm not as invulnerable as I thought, Draco must have
messed up my insides."
Gabrielle seemed perplexed and Xena told her about Draco's beating her..
"Why didn't you tell me?"
"There wasn't any time and I wouldn't be telling you now except I seem to be
in a strange situation. I can't move. Gabrielle, we can't let the villagers
see me like this. If they do all hope is lost. You have to help me up and
into the tavern. Get Argo." Gabrielle was up and running for the stable as
quick as her feet could propel her. She found Argo and saddled her. Within
moments she jumped into the saddle, reining her in the direction of Xena. As
she slowed the horse down and Argo came to a stop she flew from the saddle
and hit the ground. Kneeling at Xena's side.
Xena asked her for the whip which Gabrielle tied to the saddle horn and with
Gabrielles help Xena raised herself up and was standing as she held onto the
saddle. Gabrielle walked along side her as the two made their way to the
tavern. Argo walking very carefully so as not to hurt her master. She didn't
know what was wrong she only knew that for Gabrielle to ride her like she
had just done Xena must be in some kind of trouble.
As they stopped in front of the tavern, Xena whispered, "Gabrielle get your
staff and bring it here. I will support one side with it and you can help me
on the other." Gabrielle ran into the tavern to retrieve her staff. She
rushed back out to the waiting horse and her friend who was hanging on to
the saddle looking paler by the minute.
"Xena here!" Handing her the staff. "Get a good hold and I will try to get
you from this side. If you fall. This time could you do it on my other side.
That way both sides will look alike, I will have a bruise on each." She
managed a laugh.
Xena took the staff and put one arm around Gabrielle as the two moved slowly
toward the tavern door. Once inside Gabrielle took her over to the closest
bench and helped her to set down. By this time Gabrielle was shaking and her
eyes were filling with tears. Xena reached out to wipe off a tear that was
rolling down her cheek and said, "Be strong Gabrielle. If something happens
and I can't... then its up to you"
Gabrielle took a deep breath as she replied, "Xena, I need to get someone in
here to look at you. You know I will do what I can but right now. I think we
should run, I think we should all run. And return to fight another time. You
know if you are injured there will be no way to protect yourself from them.
No, I won't see you killed."
Xena forced a smile as she replied, "Gabrielle it's going to be all right,
I'll be ok, just let me rest for a few minutes and get me some Henbane. I
know what it did to you but you ate to much of it. If I get just enough and
drink some warm leafed water I will be all right."
"Xena, if there is something really wrong won't that hide it? I mean you
could kill yourself couldn't you?"
"Not to worry, Gabrielle, I've done it before and everything will be fine.
Just get me some Henbane."
Gabrielle got up from the bench and said, "All right but don't go anywhere."
Xena forced a laugh and said, "I'll be right here, wouldn't leave without
you."
Xena tried to move but the fire that was coming from her insides sent a
lightening bolt of pain throughout her body and she set motionless muttering
under her breath, "What have you done to yourself now, Xena? Come on body,
your not going to let a pair of smelly boots do you in now are you? Have to
concentrate, have to think positive. By the Gods, I will not be defeated
this way. Ares, can you hear me?"
The silence was evident, there wasn't even a sound coming from outside. Just
as suddenly she saw a swirl of dust sweep through the doorway into the room.
She couldn't imagine how a wind devil had gotten into the tavern, but there
it was and she just hoped it didn't cause any damage. Just as suddenly as it
had appeared it stopped and there stood Ares, just as smug as ever. He
walked over to her reaching down he grasped her left hand in his. Raising it
to his lips, he planted a soft kiss. "Hello, my dear, we meet in the oddest
places. But at least this time your not attacking me with your sword. By the
way, where is your trusty friend."
She sneered up at him and pulled her hand back, "My trusty friend, would you
be speaking of my sword or Gabrielle?"
He raised his head and laughed, "Your sword of course. I know where she is."
"Ares, you haven't done anything to her have you? If you harm one hair on
her head, I'll..."
He said, "Do what, from what I have seen, you can't do much at the moment. I
can't believe that the one person to finally fail the mighty Xena is my old
friend Draco."
"Don't become to confident, Ares, I still have a lot of life left and I
wouldn't give you or him that satisfaction."
Walking around the room he turned and said, "You know the offer still
stands, I will make you the head of my army and you will rule the world.
Just say the words and I will make your pain go away. We will make a great
team. People will tremble at the names of Ares and Xena."
"I...I can't. It's not me anymore."
He snarled, "Its that pesky friend of yours isn't it? You just don't want to
leave her. Well I could find some place for her in my army. She would make a
great concubine." Xena jumped to her feet and swung at him, catching Ares
off guard. The blow landed a solid right to his chin and he crumpled to the
floor. He looked up to see her right leg swing and felt the blow to his head
from her boot.
As he lay dazed she leaned over him and whispered into his right ear, "Be
nice, don't ever underestimate me Ares. I owe you for what you have said
about Gabrielle, and you'd better think better of it in the future and if
there were ever to be anything between us you'd better remember that." She
pulled herself up standing above him statuesquely turned and walked out the
door. When she turned to look inside he was gone as quick as he had arrived.
Leaning up against the wall she felt a cold chill run over her body and felt
sweat pouring down her face. The earth under her feet began to swirl as all
she saw was blackness.
"XeenNAH. .XeenNAH!" She heard the words coming to her as in a fog but they
were strong and so was the hand that was slapping her face. She opened one
eye and squinted into Gabrielle's face. Her left hand reached up and grabbed
Gabrielle's hand. "I'm awake, what is going on?"
Gabrielle said, "I was so worried, Xena what in the world were you doing
passed out in front of the tavern. Of course I guess if one passed out in
front of a tavern it would probably be from to much port but in..."
Xena interrupted, "Gabrielle, there you go again, rambling. I'm glad to see
you."
The girl seemed to glow, her eyes sparkling at Xena, "Whew, makes me feel
better, now here set up you can lean on me and I'll hold the cup, just drink
it, I make a mean pot of Henbane if I do say so myself." Xena managed to set
up while leaning against Gabrielle, she reached out to grasp the cup her
hand shaking. Gabrielle grasped Xena's hand in hers and held it to the cup,
helping her raise it. Xena drank the entire potion. Wrinkling her nose, when
she finished she said, "Your right, I've never tasted a better cup of
Henbane, Gabrielle"
Gabrielle kept asking why she was outside and Xena finally told her of her
visit with Ares, she just left out a certain part. Xena began to feel warm
inside and the pain she had been feeling was ebbing away. Slowly she let
herself fall back. Gabrielle went to move but she couldn't. Xena muttered as
she closed her eyes. "Stay, Gabrielle, you make a great cushion." She
managed a smile and was fast asleep. Gabrielle looked down at her friend and
knew that the Henbane had to work. And also the praying she had done at the
Shrine couldn't hurt. She didn't know what she would do if Xena were never a
part of her life. She would never let that happen. She whispered softly,
"Sleep Xena, sleep, you'll feel better when you wake up."
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Chapter Three
RAGE
The sounds of people talking and the pleasing aroma of her mothers cooking
caused the woman to stir. She could almost taste it. Opening her eyes she
glanced around the room. Setting at a table was Toris and Gabrielle. They
seemed to be deep in conversation and she knew at once that Gabrielle was
probably telling him another of their adventures. If one could write a
scroll she knew it would be her friend. She always had people on the edge of
their seats with her stories, waiting for what was to come next.
She raised herself into a setting position.
Gabrielle was aware of Xenas movement and she turned and called, "Hey sleepy
head, glad to see you among the living again. Did you have a good rest?"
Xena stood swaying for a moment her head throbbing. The pain in her stomach
gone. She walked over to the table, pulling out a chair and set down.
Toris laughed, "If Gabrielle had not told me about the Henbane. I would
swear you were drunk."
"Well I've had fewer headaches from that. Did everything go all right?"
"Not to worry they are all on their way and I checked around a bit before I
came back. So far nothing. Gabrielle told me what happened."
Xena shot a cold stare at her friend, "She would. Is that mothers cooking I
smell?"
"Yes, she fixed it before they left and told me to warm it up. I knew if
anything would wake you up that was it." Gabrielle went to get a bowl and
spoon. After filling the bowl she walked over and set it down in front of
Xena.
"I guess I will have to live that down from now on." She looked at the two
of them questionly and Toris said, "Its ok we've already eaten. Its time for
me to take my turn around the village. Gabrielle fill her in will you." He
turned and left.
Gabrielle set and watched as Xena scoffed down the food. "I can see you must
be feeling better. Seriously, Xena did it work?"
In between bites she said, " I do feel better, just a headache but that's to
be expected. Stomachs back to normal and after this delicious meal I'm ready
for almost anything. Has Toris been back long?"
"He arrived right after you went to sleep. I had to tell him what happened.
He was surprised to see you sleeping with Callisto and Draco not far away."
"Is everything ready for them?"
"Best we can do, I only hope what we have will throw them off guard." She
reached over and grasped Xena's right hand, "It will be all right, you've
beat them before and you can do it again."
Xena smiled at her friend and said, "That's why I love you Gabrielle, you
are always the optimist. When I am down you always seem to have a way of
lifting my spirits." Pushing the bowl away. "I must tell mother how good
that rabbit stew was."
The Woman warrior had walked over to Argo's saddle, reaching up she removed
a leather pouch. Turning she walked toward the table where the strawberry,
blond haired woman had began scribing on a parchment. As Xena set down she
said, "Still writing your stories? Who are you writing about now?"
Gabrielle set down the quill she had been using as she turned to face the
mischievous grin on Xena's face. "As if you don't know. Of course I'm
writing about you. Why are you looking at me that way?"
Xena set the leather pouch down in front of Gabrielle and said, "Go ahead
open it."
Gabrielle reached for the pouch a look of anticipation on her face, "You
shouldn't have gotten me anything, but I'm glad you did. Did I forget
something?"
"No, Gabrielle, it's just my way of saying thanks for being you. I know I
may not show you often, but I appreciate all you do for me." Xena received
more pleasure in just watching the look on her friends face as she opened
the pouch. Gabrielle reached in and brought out a small package. Unwrapping
it she asked, "What in the world did you get me?"
Xena smiled, "I thought it would look good on you."
"OHHHHH! I love it, how did you know I have been wanting one?" Gabrielle
brought out a very delicate, beautiful Amulet.
Xena reached over, "Here let me put it around your neck." Taking the leather