All other Characters and events are the ideas and property of the author. They are not to be duplicated or used in other works without the authors permission.

There is no sex (only hints) but dark themes and violence. Good versus Evil sometimes gets nasty. If you are offended by this please read no further.

This story could not have been written without the contributions of I. Boldway and my thanks to her.

Thanks also to my editor Stonewulf for his contribution.

Bows and cheers to the members of my Xenavrse cyber-tribe Daughters of the Four Winds. They are inspirational and each one a treasure.

Last but not least my deepest thanks to the Big Guy Upstairs for the second chance.

This the first posting of my work. Please be gentile and I welcome feedback and thoughts at xenasis@yahoo.com or OTEREWQB@hotmail.com

Back To Part 1

6.

Melanie drove like the devil was on her tail. The long highways were deserted and she took advantage of it by trying to put as much distance between Hawks men and herself as possible. Gabrielle sat still in the seat, worry reflected in her features and posture. It wasn't until Melanie heard a soft groaning from the back that she eased off the accelerator a bit. Glancing in the rearview mirror, she knew it was Aven. Even in a drugged slumber, she couldn't escape Hawk's influence. She caught Gabrielle's questioning look, "She's having nightmares." She explained.

Nodding, Gabrielle leaned over the seat and watched their sleeping companions. Another soft groan from the back and Gabrielle climbed over the seats, placing herself protectively between Xena and Aven. Resting a calming hand on Aven's arm, she quieted immediately. Helpless, she could do nothing more but watch them sleep. Melanie kept her eyes on the road, every mile further from Navato, eased her fear.

Several hours later, Melanie was roused from her deep meditation by faint groans again floating from the back of the Bronco.

As a low moan escaped Xena's lips, Gabrielle placed a comforting hand on her friend's shoulder. Xena's head rolled softly from side to side as she fought her way back to consciousness. It was unlike Xena to acknowledge pain and her moaning worried Gabrielle. Looking up, Gabrielle relayed that worry in Melanie's direction, their eyes meeting in the rearview mirror. Seeing the concern and desperation in Gabrielle's eyes, Melanie snapped out of her reverie.

"There's a truck stop in Barstow. We'll stop there." She said reassuring Gabrielle.

Relieved at the sound of another's voice, Gabrielle nodded in agreement. With another moan, louder this time, Xena opened her eyes and struggled to sit up. She inched her shoulders up and instantly fell back into place. "Easy, we're safe now." Gabrielle said soothingly, "You were shot with a dart that made you sleep."

Knowing Gabrielle would never lie to her, Xena relaxed and stopped her struggles for a few minutes, but the Warrior couldn't be quieted for long. With a huge effort, she heaved herself up into a sitting position, Gabrielle steading her as she leaned against the side of the Bronco wall. She merely stared at the passing countryside for awhile, trying to focus her eyes, then turned her neck, a loud cracking of bone rupturing the silence of the Bronco. Melanie smiled as the same sound was repeated again before Xena settled into a more comfortable position, returning to her study of the barren country they traveled. Somehow she found the sand covered, rolling hills comforting. Xena cleared her throat to speak, her throat so dry that the sound was more of a croak, "What happened?" She finally managed to whisper to Gabrielle.

"We got away from Hawks' men with the help of Ram and his friends at the Faire'." Gabrielle informed her friend. She continued the simple tale of how Xena had been knocked out like Aven and loaded into the Bronco. Melanie blushed as she heard Gabrielle describe the way she had come to their defense while Xena was down and held off the attackers until they were safely in the vehicle. "We've been driving ever since." She finished, casting another look at Melanie.

Picking up on the cue, Melanie said, "We're on our way to our Grandmothers home in Utah. It's another state about a thousand miles away. Our grandmothers have been searching ancient sites for years and they may be able to help us get an exact fix on the Icon. At the very least it's a safe place to go for a while." She finished thoughtfully.

Before Gabrielle could break out the questions, they were interrupted by Aven as she started moaning. Gabrielle thought it was another nightmare, but then realized that the final effects of the drugs were starting to wear off and Aven was fighting as hard as Xena had to come awake.

Speaking softly, Gabrielle relayed to Aven that she was safe and it had only been dreams stalking her. This seemed to calm Aven slightly but she still struggled against the drugs effects. Soon she was sitting up, groggily looking around and rubbing her temples, trying to alleviate the monster headache she had acquired. "I'm thirsty." She croaked.

Relived that Aven was awake, Melanie nodded knowingly, "We're almost at Barstow." True to her word, three minutes later she was taking the exit leading up to a sprawling truck stop beside the interstate. Slowing as gently as possible, Melanie turned on her blinker and turned into the parking lot. "You may want to put your old clothes back on." Melanie informed the two visitors as she eased to the back of the truck stop, "What we're wearing is a little bloody and might draw police attention. Grab the backpacks and we can change in the restroom." She finished as she threw the Bronco into park.

She pulled the keys from the ignition and climbed out of the Bronco, her own bones creaking in protest from the extended still period. Stomping her feet to get the blood circulating, she walked around to the rear of the bronco and opened the door. "Come on." She said to her companions.

There was a moment of confusion as all tried to identify and grab their respective backpacks, and stumbled out of the truck, Xena and Aven taking a minute to still the dizziness that washed over them. Single file, Melanie led the way into the cool interior of the truck stop. Weaving through the aisles of souvenirs, she led them to the bathrooms in the back, thankful that the restrooms were a bit isolated from the busier areas of the stop.

A short time later all four emerged from the bathroom stalls. Aven and Melanie now wore khaki walking shorts, T-shirts and sturdy hiking boots. Gabrielle gave a sigh of relief to be back in her usual attire of skirt, top and boots. Xena made some final adjustments to her leather dress and knee length boots. All exchanged approving looks and left the restroom.

Once back in the store, Melanie grabbed several bottles of water, while Aven seized bags of chips, oreos, dried jerky, and a jumbo bottle of aspirin. Melanie wrinkled her nose in protest when she saw Aven's choices.

"Well, we have to eat." Aven said defensively, "And there's not too many gourmet choices around here."

"You call that food?" Melanie snorted, "If Hawks doesn't get us, that stuff will."

Aven set the basket down and placed her hands on her hips, "What would you suggest?"

"Let's put this stuff in truck and eat at the restaurant." Melanie smiled sweetly, knowing that when Aven had a headache her disposition became impossible.

Concern crept into Avens eyes, "Do you think it's safe to stop? Shouldn't we keep moving?"

Melanie gave an understanding nod. "It'll be okay. Ram is probably still running those guys. We can spare the time for a meal." She finished smugly.

Aven couldn't suppress the smile that Ram's name and Melanie's unconcealed interest brought. "You still got a thing for that macho ape?" She asked teasingly.

"Sure do." Melanie sighed wistfully.

Grinning, they paid for their purchases and shortly all four were seated in the restaurant. Xena and Gabrielle looked around apprehensively and Melanie could understand their unease. The last time they had been in such a place it had been shot to pieces.

This time their meal was uneventful. Conversation was kept to a minium as the smell of food made them all realize how hungry they were. Soon that hunger had been satiated with hamburgers and french fries, a modern delicacy that Gabrielle seemed particulary fond of. Melanie and Xena got their fill of coffee and Aven devoured several aspirin, trying to combat the after effects of the tranquilizer. With a fresh tank of gas in the Bronco, they were soon rolling down the freeway again.

Melanie and Aven rode in the front, while Xena and Gabrielle stretched out in the back. In no time the gentle sway of the road and monotonous hum of the engine soon lulled them into a deep restful sleep.

After a while, Melanie glimpsed in the rearview mirror to make sure her companions were sleeping. Reassured, she directed her gaze at Aven, "Hon, we need to talk about some things and make some decisions."

Surprised, Aven gave her a quizzical look, "What do you mean?"

"Well, we have two women from the past in the back. Not merely women, but our ancestors. We already know that this is deadly, serious stuff we're involved in and ... well... if something happens to them, that's it. There will be no us. No Pappy. No Janice."

"No mother and no grandmothers." Aven said thoughtfully. As the full impact of the statement sank in, she fearfully stared at Melanie. "I hadn't given that much thought." She admitted after a few minutes.

Janice was Aven's maternal grandmother and the person who had raised her after her mother died. She had gone to live with Janice when she was only eleven and stayed until she left for college at seventeen. Pappy, Melanie's grandmother, was just as dear, and Aven shuddered to think how lost and lonely she would have been without the two warm and intelligent women in her life. "What can we do? Aven continued, "We can't take on Hawks alone. He's got too many people with him."

Glancing at her, Melanie replied, "We don't have to defeat him, just keep him occupied long enough for Xena and Gabrielle to get the Icon and get back to their time."

"Do you think Pappy and Gram can help us?"

"I sure hope so." Melanie almost whispered.

Deep in thought, they both rode in silence as the miles passed beneath the wheels. Coming to a decision, Aven stated the obvious, "The only thing that counts is getting the Icon and getting them back to stop Dahok. No matter the cost. Deal?"

Understanding the implications fully, Melanie nodded acceptance, "Deal."

Silence once again fell between them. Aven stared out the window at the darkening desert, the dark cloud settling back in place over her. The motion and sound of the Bronco attempted to lull her into slumber, but she fought and only dozed occasionally. Melanie turned on the radio, keeping it low enough as not to disturb the others but loud enough to keep her company. Steadfast, she drove through the desert as the sun faded to darkness in her rearview mirror.

Bright lights and flashing neon signs finally woke Xena as they rolled into Las Vegas. Yawning, she sat up in and looked around in amazement. Never in her life had she seen such sights. Bright flashing lights were everywhere, even lining entire buildings. All colors of the rainbow announced the name of the establishments along the sides of the freeway. Darkness had been turned into daylight.

Turning and easing over the seat she startled Melanie by grabbing her shoulder. Rousing her self out of a trance Melanie looked in the rearview mirror, "Good morning, sleepy head." She greeted the rumpled warrior.

With a grunt, Xena turned to shake Gabrielle awake. Just as she suspected, Gabrielle was already stirring. In no time she was wide awake and enthralled with the fantastic light show. The activity in the back roused Aven as well.

Ignoring the gaudy show of Vegas she looked worriedly over at Melanie, stretching and yawning like a cat, "What time is it?"

"About two in the morning." She answered mechanically.

"You should have woke me up." Aven scolded, feeling remorse at the fatigue her friend was obviously feeling. "Pull over at the next station and I'll take over for awhile."

Gratefully Melanie assented and pulled off the next exit easily finding a gas station. Without a word Melanie got out and stiffly walked to the rear of the vehicle. Xena and Gabrielle wasted no time climbing out of the cramped quarters. Soon all four were stretching and looking around. Melanie walked to the restroom, her muscles protesting the sudden exercise after so long in one position. While Melanie and the others hit the bathrooms, Aven took charge of buying and pumping gas. Xena and Gabrielle quickly exited the restroom, anxious to get back to the enthralling skyline outside. The magic of the lights was almost overwhelming for the two ancients. As they stood staring at the light show, Xena glanced over at the building where they paid for fuel. Aven had been walking in, when a tall, lanky man had bumped into her. It was purely an accident and though the man had apologized Aven had glared at him with hatred. It was so strong Xena had seen him scurry away like an animal sensing a coming storm. It was another item she filed away in her memory. She watched Aven even more closely.

Soon they were underway again this time with Aven behind the wheel. Xena rode shotgun with Gabrielle tucked in between them, Melanie stretched out in the back and was sound asleep by the time Aven entered the freeway.

As the lights of Las Vegas faded, the moon, full and bright lit their way on the deserted interstate. Hanging high in the sky, it illuminated the sparse desert and stark mountain peaks which they now traveled through.

Gabrielle glanced over at Aven and smiled, "Tell us about the people we're going to see. Do you think they will be willing to help us?"

Xena noticed Aven's features relax and soften at the mention of Pappy and Janice. A gentle smile even played on her lips. Xena nodded approval at Gabrielle, her question obviously a good one. Both had been concerned by the tense, haunted look Aven had worn since recovering from the effects of the tranquilizer.

Clearing her throat Aven began, "They are two very special ladies. Pappy's real name is Melinda but we've called her Pappy for as long as I can remember. Janice, my grandmother was my mother's mom. She took me in when my parents died and gave me a home." The smile again appeared on Aven's face but was tinged with melancholy. Her voice full of warmth as she continued, "They met in the early 40's." Glancing at Gabrielle she added, "That's about fifty years ago." She clarified and went on with her story. "They met on an archeological dig. Pappy is a linguist specializing in ancient writings. She is a true southern lady, courteous, proper and polite. Janice was a bit of a hell raiser and adventurer and as she tells it, thought Pappy was a useless wimp. That changed when they ran into some trouble at the dig. Neither of them have ever told the whole story. From what little they have said, I think they were attacked by some outlaws and barely escaped with their lives. Whatever happened in that cave sealed their friendship and they have been inseparable since. They even lived next door to one another when their husbands were alive. Mel used to visit during the summers but it wasn't until we got together as adults that our friendship really got tight. On our twenty-first birthday, Pappy and Gram held this solemn ceremony for us. That's when she gave me the scrolls." Looking at Gabrielle she grinned, "Your diary."

Directing a look at Xena's chakram, "That's when Pappy gave Mel her chakram coat of arms. They were both really serious and mysterious. They finished the presentation by saying in unison 'through our progeny, the work and our heritage continue."

Aven cut her eyes at her companions. She and Melanie had thought the whole ceremony was unusal, but then so were their grandmothers. Only now did it hit Aven that they had known. Known that there was a destiny that surrounded their families. Giving herself a shake, Aven added, "If anyone knows what we need to do, it's them. They live in a little town in Utah called Bryce Canyon. It's supposed to be a mystical place and they are happy there." Taking a breath she fell into silence.

The silence remained as the Bronco continued down the highway. Each woman floated in their own thoughts. At some point Xena and Gabrielle drifted off to sleep. It was the faint glow of sunrise that awoke Xena several hours later. Gabrielle's head rested on her shoulder and she was snoring softly.

Holding Gabrielle's head steady, Xena struggled to sit up. She was surprised that she had dozed off again. But, then that was the warrior's way. Sleep when you can you never know when you'll get the next opportunity. Observing Aven, Xena softly asked, "How are you doing?"

Aven gave a tired smile and whispered back, "Fine. Just using the quiet time to think."

"About?" Xena asked.

Taking her eyes off the road for a second to look at Xena, she saw the expectant look on the warriors face. "Lots of things." She replied looking back at the road, "Anger, betrayal, fear. Just everyday things."

"For a bad day, maybe." Xena responded matter of factly.

Aven nodded, "I've been having a bad day for the last six months."

Xena remained quiet, waiting. She didn't wait long as Aven continued, "Dammit, I feel so used. He used me to help him research this stuff and find a way to bring Dahok back. I'm responsible for this mess."

Xena turned in the seat to face her, "You are not responsible for this. Yes, you were used. Dahok is a master manipulator, as is his line. You were a target because of who you are, but it's not your fault. Self pity is a waste of time, energy and especially your life."

Anger colored Aven's cheeks, "Self pity? You think that's what this is about?"

"Yes." Xena replied calmly, "Life isn't fair."

"I know that." Aven shot back, "I just don't understand how evil like Hawks' can continue to flourish despite our best efforts to stop it. Maybe if I'd been stronger at the cabin..." She stopped unwilling to revisit the ordeal.

Xena nodded in understanding, "Evil is strong. As long as there is good there will be evil. Together they make life worth living. Amid all the pain and trials are moments of true joy. Those moments make all the struggles worth it."

"I want it over. I want David dead. To feel his blood on my hands." She finished in an angry whisper.

Xena looked at her, compassion and understanding mirrored in her eyes. Leaning in, Xena's face darkened, "You like the way the killing makes you feel, don't you? You want to feel that way again. The rush and excitement. The release."

Aven was so startled she jerked the wheel causing the Bronco to swerve slightly. "Yes." She almost shouted, then remembering her sleeping companions, lowered her voice, "Yes, Xena. I -- the--knowing that I can release some of this anger and pain that way, makes me want to wipe out Hawks and all his minions."

Now they were getting to the heart of the conversation, and Xena watched her closely. "He hurt you Aven and at first you were terrified. When you told what he'd done that fear turned into anger. Now you want to release that."

Aven nodded. Tears threatening to erupt as Xena pressed on, "But deep down you know that it's wrong and that's tearing you up. That's why you let Hawk's men grab you at the Faire'."

"I want to die." Aven whispered weakly. It shamed that those feelings were so apparent.

Xena arched a well formed eyebrow at the woman and rested a hand on Aven's shoulder. "Hawks is like an oozing cloud of filth. Creeping in anywhere he can and try to destroy every thing he touches. That filth tried to destroy you at the cabin, but it didn't work. You are alive. Scarred and hurt but alive. What he did to you was terrible. But you will learn to deal with it in time. Life is worth living. It is what you make of it. If you let this destroy you, then Dahok and David have won. But, if you concentrate on what you love and the joys you have, then this other stuff is nothing but an adventure. A rocky stretch of road. That's all."

Aven looked at Xena skeptically.

"There was something more important to you than what David did. You proved that by keeping it safe for six months."

Now Aven cut her eyes to look in the rearview mirror. Melanie was sleeping deeply and peacefully. She watched her for a few seconds and then smiled in acknowledgment, "It is our destiny, isn't it?"

Sensing Aven's change of heart, Xena simply nodded, "The only way to lose is to quit." Xena said earnestly, "Please don't quit on us. On our line. On our Gods. On Melanie and on Gabrielle and me. We cannot do this without you. We need you and are counting on you. If you feel like the anger is overwhelming you just look at one of us. Remember that we are here for you. We're in this together."

Aven emitted a sigh of acceptance. With this acceptance came resolve. She cast a look at Xena, who looked at her with admiration, as a warrior. Again, she looked at Melanie's sleeping figure and sat up a little straighter. Melanie had never given up on her and she would not let her friend down, any of them. Gripping the wheel with a new strength she smiled at Xena, "You're very wise. Thank you."

Xena looked down at the sleeping Gabrielle, her own savior. It seemed only right to be able to repay the debt, "No problem." She said, her voice full of pride.

Hawks stepped out of the shower into the steaming bathroom, giving Barbara's rear a playful slap as he left. "Hurry up, minx. We have a mission to complete." He laughed.

Barbara grinned and gave her head a final dunk under the shower nozzle. Turning off the water she grabbed the towel Hawks held out to her. "Why thank you. Aren't you the perfect gentleman?" She said wickedly.

"The prospect of murder and conquest bring that out in me." Hawks smiled confidently. Barbara laughed in agreement, then looked at him seriously, "You know, I could get jealous about you and the irritating blond."

Hawks stopped and looked at her. For a moment she thought she had overstepped their cautious threshold. She relaxed when he grabbed her and planted a long, hard kiss on her throat. "My little minx." He said in a smoldering voice, "I have to have her to continue the line. To ensure my Father's Kingdom." He pulled her closer to him, squeezing her rear almost to the point of pain, "You are the one I want by my side to help me rule."

She knew he was lying but nodded in belief. They kissed once more and then dressed.

A short time later they emerged onto the roof of the Hawks building. There a Chinook helicopter was warming up it's engines. While the crew was loading the last bit of equipment, twenty armed men settled into their seats along the walls of the craft. Hawks gave a curt nod of as he and Barbara boarded. Strapping into their seats, Hawks leaned forward, "Let's go to Utah." He shouted above the din of the rotor, to the pilot.

The pilot increased the speed of the rotor and the craft lifted off the building. They hovered for a moment before heading east.

Melanie woke up with her own splitting headache. The sun was midway up in the sky and it was another clear dry day in the desert. She eased into a sitting position and weakly whispered, "Coffee. Please Coffee and a restroom."

Aven chuckled at the pitiful display.

Melanie glared balefully at the back of her friends head, "You are merciless." She croaked.

No longer able to contain it, Aven burst out laughing. "Hey!" She yelped as Melanie's hand made contact with the back of her skull. "Okay, okay, you wimp." Aven agreed, relenting to her friends pleading. "The next exit has a coffee shop and we'll get you some life's blood." She ducked as she felt Melanie's hand whiz harmlessly through her hair.

Xena and Gabrielle smiled at the exchange, noticing how light Aven's mood had become.

An hour later a refreshed Melanie emerged from the restaurant caring a large Styrofoam cup.

"I can't believe you drank all that coffee with breakfast and still got one to go." Aven grumble, shaking her head in disbelief.

Gabrielle looked at Xena who was also carrying a cup, "You're just as bad."

"Hey, don't interfere with our simple pleasures." Melanie retorted. She looked to Xena for support.

"I think the insolent blonds should ride in back." Xena responded.

Melanie nodded in agreement and she hopped into the driver's seat. Xena jumped into the passenger side and smiled at their companions.

"Well?" Xena said to the outraged blondes standing outside. They exchanged looks of disbelief at the treatment they were receiving. Shrugging in resignation, they climbed into the back.

Traffic had been light and they made good time, only hours from their final destination. Once they hit the highway again they spent the remaining time in chatter and light hearted banter. For a short time they were simply four women enjoying each others company and could almost forget their grim mission.

Melanie honked the horn as they pulled onto the long dusty driveway of Janice and Pappy's sprawling Spanish style home.

Janice eased out into the courtyard and shielded her eyes against the glare of the sun. Squinting, she tried to figure out who was driving up the road but the Bronco was unfamiliar. Inconspicuously, she dropped her hand down to the butt of the gun she had holstered to her waist. Two women living alone in the middle of nowhere needed to be able to take care of themselves, Janice reasoned, and the .44 helped nicely. "Pappy! We have company." She shouted.

A woman close in age emerged from the back of the house. "Who is it?" She asked.

"Can't make them out." Janice answered, "But it has California plates." The two women looked at one another, smiling hugely. Both snapped their heads back toward the fast approaching vehicle.

Melanie stuck her hand out the window and waved. She looked at the two dear women standing in front of the house. Janice in her khaki slacks and white T-shirt, the outfit finished by a khaki head band tied around blonde, white hair. Pappy wearing her usual Indian style full skirt and matching shirt, her greying black hair tied in a neat braid and laying down her back. Melanie could see the sparkle of Pappy's profuse silver and turquoise jewelry. Both women waved in unison as they recognized their visitors.

Sliding to a stop. Melanie cut the engine and jumped out of the Bronco. Once in range she flung herself at Pappy. Aven was repeating the motion with Janice. A few moments of joyous greeting and they changed partners, starting all over again. The grandmothers were clasping the younger women's faces in their hands and fussing about how tired they looked and how much they needed to have a home cooked meal. Then Xena and Gabrielle emerged from the vehicle.

Janice and Pappy saw the movement and stiffened. Melanie draped her arms around the grandmothers shoulders, "I want you to meet our friends."

Seeing the strangers for the first time, caused Janice to turn white. She looked at Pappy in shocked amazement. Pappy was having a similar reaction. Immediately Melanie went into action. She brought them out of their frozen state by introducing Xena and Gabrielle. Recognition flashed across Janice's face as she met the tall, leather clad warrior and she quickly hid it. Cutting her eyes at Pappy, she looked back at their visitors, "Pleased to meet you. Come on in and let me get you some coffee. You must be exhausted and I know how you are about your caffeine, Mel."

At the mention of coffee, Melanie and Xena groaned in unison. "We need a restroom more than coffee at this point." Melanie said, Xena nodding agreement.

"Well come on in. Let's get you fixed up." Pappy said chucked. And led them into the house.

Later Xena and Melanie emerged from the bathroom. Refreshed and considerably lighter they accepted the cups of coffee Pappy offered them.

Gabrielle and Aven shook their heads in disbelief. "How can you drink so much of that stuff?" Gabrielle asked in amazement.

"They have twelve step programs for problems like yours." Aven directed to Melanie.

Janice laughed sympathetically, "It must be a genetic thing. Pappy drinks it nonstop too." She said glancing at her house-mate.

"Well," Pappy said in pure southern drawl, "We can't help it that your side of the family are coffee wimps."

Laughing, Aven mischievously asked, "Who were the wimps squirming in their seats earlier begging not to hit any bumps."

The room dissolved into laughter as Xena and Melanie blushed in embarrassment. The last half hour over the road had been uncomfortable and the road particularly bumpy.

"So, what brings you girls all the way out here?" Janice asked, sobering the merry mood, "It's not that we're not glad you came but I get the feeling somethings up."

The four new arrivals exchanged nervous looks. None of them knew exactly where to start. Xena and Gabrielle looked to Aven and Melanie for direction. They didn't know how much information they were willing to share with the older women. Or if they would believe any of the events of the last few days.

A nervous silence descended over the kitchen. All six sat at the kitchen table sipping coffee and munching the sandwiches that Janice had made.

Aven cleared her throat, "It appears our 'destiny' has slammed into us. I'm sure you've already guessed that Xena and Gabrielle are our ancestors." She looked at Janice and Pappy for confirmation. At their nod she continued. Detailing the events of the last few days she explained how she had been involved with Hawks. She managed to lay out an informative summary of the adventure up to this point. "We need to find a religious artifact. It is referred to in the scrolls as an Icon. We've managed to narrow the location to this area." She anxiously watched for the reaction of the grandmothers to the news.

All were surprised by the unexpected reaction of the older women. They huddled together, whispering and tossing quick, frightened looks at their visitors.

"Pappy?" Melanie whispered, reaching across the table to squeeze her grandmothers hand. "What is it? We did not mean to frighten you."

Xena quietly stared at their hostesses for a moment. "They know."

Aven and Melanie exchanged looks of comprehension as Xena's words sank in. The older women fell silent. "You do know don't you?" Aven asked with dawning realization, "You have always known?"

Suddenly, Janice clinched her hands on the table and studied the visitors intently. Pappy's eyes darted from one of the young women to the other. A mixture of dread and uncertainty mirrored in her eyes. Flustered, she opened her mouth to speak but no words came out. Taking a deep breath she finally managed to stutter, "W...We did not want to damage the flow of time or the events themselves. We thought it best to keep what we knew a secret. We hoped that you might be spared. It is the destiny of our lines to battle evil. Each generation must face their trial, alone." She finished by bowing her head in embarrassment.

"We found the Icon while we were in Mesopotamia." Janice said coming to her friends rescue. "We knew it needed to be protected and that we could be targets. So we had a friend hide it for us. He didn't tell us where, only that when it was time for the battle it would be there." She said looking at Aven and Melanie earnestly.

"How can we find it? Can this guy be trusted?" Aven asked suspiciously.

"We've trusted him with our lives before." Janice promised. "You need to go see our friend. He will test your fitness and then determine if you're worthy. It is in his hands, the secret to remain in his family. To be passed down to the eldest son of each generation. We wanted it safe and we had prayed that it might skip a generation. We knew his family couldn't be linked to ours." Janice quickly cutting her eyes from her granddaughter.

Aven clasped the woman's hands and locked eyes with her. "They don't always survive the battle do they? My mother... it wasn't a car accident was it?"

Janice was a tough old bird. She rarely showed her true feelings, but now her green eyes misted up. Lowering her head, silence was the confirmation. Pappy scooted closer to Janice offering support. Across the table the same motion was provided by Melanie and Gabrielle.

"I'm sorry, Honey." Janice sighed, "I should have told you when you were older. I had so hoped that it would pass you by."

Aven remained quiet for so long that it brought tension to the air. "Did she win?"

Janice looked in her face proudly, "Yes. She did."

"I'm sorry, Aven." Gabrielle said. It was another burden she allowed on her conscience. Melanie looked at her friend, wanting to offer words of comfort. They eluded her. Xena's eyes clouded over with darkness, her own guilt trying to emerge from its hiding place.

Aven took a deep breath, a bittersweet expression on her face. "It's alright. A car accident is a senseless death. Now I know she died for a greater reason. Her death had meaning. That makes it easier to take."

Janice and Pappy nodded proudly. "John will help you." Pappy continued, "We met him shortly after World War two. He was a code talker for army intelligence. When we met it seemed as if we were supposed to come together. He was trustworthy and willing to accept responsibility of the Icon."

"Where can we find him?" Xena said rising from her chair abruptly.

Melanie and Aven exchanged uncertain looks, but rose to obey. They had begun sensing that time was getting short in this adventure. Even though frightened they wanted to get on with it.

Xena held a hand out stopping Gabrielle before she could stand. "You stay here. Keep an eye on Janice and Pappy. I'm not so sure we won't be followed and we can't leave them defenseless." Xena locked eyes with Gabrielle to relay her meaning.

Gabrielle met Xena's gaze, reading her eyes and nodded, "You're right. We do not want Hawks getting this information." Gabrielle said, settling back in her chair.

Janice stood up defensively, "We can take care of ourselves. We don't need a protector."

Pappy knowingly smiled at Xena and gently grasped Janice's wrist, "Don't get you knickers in a twist. They know what they're doing. Besides, I'd like the chance to talk to this young woman. She lives in times we can only read about."

Janice grudgingly relented. "Fine." Directing her attention at her granddaughter she said, "When this is all over, we're going to have a long talk. One that's past due. Now here's how to get to Johns'."

A short time later Xena, Melanie and Aven pulled into a small Adobe village a few miles from their Grandmother's place. Easing out of the Bronco they waited as the nervous residents began to approach. "Janice and Pappy sent us to see John Littlehorse." Melanie stated in a friendly voice to the gathering.

The residents looked at each other, muttering under their breath. One of the younger men, a tall, handsome protector stepped forward, "Who wants him?"

Melanie quickly answered, "Pappy's granddaughter, Melanie."

The answer seemed to appease the welcoming committee. A short older woman moved up beside the man. She observed them for a moment, "This way." She said, waving them toward the nearest Adobe building. Turning, she started waddling in that direction. Her long denim skirt swaying around her ankles. She turned to see if they were following. When she realized their hesitation she gave them a toothless smile as encouragement. The smile was all but lost in the deep wrinkles of her kind face and the three women followed her.

Aven hesitated at the doorway of the Adobe. Her companions huddled up behind her. The old woman continued across the room to a door on the far side. She stuck her head in the door and said something in her native language and a male voice responded. Bobbing her head in acknowledgment, she turned and waved the women into the hut, "He'll be with you shortly. Please have a seat." She motioned in the direction of a dilapidated couch.

Cautiously, the women entered the room and looked about. It was decorated simply, like someone had raided several rummage sales to furnish the place. They slowly walked to the sofa. As one they perched on the edge, all three nervously shoulder to shoulder.

"I could really get to like guard duty." Gabrielle muttered to herself easing into the steaming bath tub. The scented water enveloped her in it's luxurious embrace. She let out a deep sigh of delight, closing her eyes and savoring the feeling. She knew that she shouldn't be doing this. Instead she should be talking to the older women and keeping an eye out. But when Pappy suggested it, she couldn't resist. Besides she reasoned, it would be rude to not accept their hospitality. The warm water was just starting to soothe the tension from her body and muscles, when Janice urgently called her name.

She recognized the sound of unease in the older womans voice. "What is it?" She called as she rose out of the tub. Not waiting for an answer she started throwing on her clothes. Then she grabbed her staff from its resting spot against the wall and ran into the hallway. She arrived in time to see a man grab Pappy by the shoulders and shake her, "Where are they?" He shouted.

"Get your hands off her." Gabrielle yelled and charged.

Suddenly, Janice appeared behind the man and delivered an iron skillet across the back of his head. He staggered and collapsed to the floor almost pulling Pappy down with him. Janice was unaware of the next man that appeared in the hallway. Gabrielle had him in her sights and cracked the newcomer squarely between his shoulder blades with her staff. Startled, the man gave up his target and turned on Gabrielle.

"Run!" Gabrielle ordered as she whirled the staff and hit the man right between the eyes. The man's eyes crossed and he dropped to the ground. She heard the sounds of another intruder coming from behind her. The resonating sound of the frying pan let her know that he had been dealt with.

From the side of her eye, Gabrielle saw another man entering the front door. As she tried to whirl and hit him, he grabbed the end of the staff and pulled it from her hands. Without hesitation, Gabrielle hit him in the nose with the open palm of her hand. The blow knocked the would be attackers head back and he dropped the staff. Gabrielle rescued it on its downward fall and turning she hit him behind the knees knocking him to the ground.

Spinning around she saw Pappy and Janice taking out another soldier. It was then she noticed the activity outside the house. Hawks men were swarming like insects. "I said run! Now!" Gabrielle ordered again. This time the women listened.

Gabrielle clobbered another man as he came in and was prepared to continue until David Hawks sauntered in the doorway. Slowly he clapped his hands in applause, "No wonder the master chose you." He said in mock admiration, "That was quite a show, Mother."

Gabrielle blanched in recognition. This was the man from her dream. The one who had been with Hope. The one that had tortured her descendant. "I am not you mother." Gabrielle said in distaste, as she assumed a defensive posture.

"Aw, Mom. Be a good girl and put the stick down." Hawks said mockingly, his eyes flickering to something behind her.

Gabrielle spun to defend her back. The movement was too late as she was tackled and brought to the ground. Before she could recover she was grabbed by the shoulders and roughly lifted to her feet. "Tie her up." Hawks roared. He moved closer standing right in front of her. Reaching out his hand he tried to caress her face but she pulled away in disgust. Meeting and holding his eyes Gabrielle knew the fear Aven had lived with. Hawks eyes radiated such cruelty and anger that it was tangible. "Gently." He smiled as the soldiers moved into the house and began tying up their prey, "We don't want to damage the Master's bride."

He threw back his head and laughed when he saw the terror in Gabrielle's eyes. "Yesss." He hissed in her face, "Dahok has special plans for you and you will be his body and soul."

"In here." Pappy whispered urgently. Janice wasn't ready to leave Gabrielle yet. Pappy grabbed her arm and drug her into the pantry. "Let go you old bat. She needs our help." Janice argued.

"We can not help her if we're dead or captured." Pappy shot back. Tilting the can of tomato juice on the shelf forward the wall shifted, revealing a secret passageway. Reluctantly, Janice followed Pappy and they slipped into their hidden escape route. Pushing gently, the wall slid back into place behind them.

"What are we going to do?" Pappy whispered, clutching Janice to her.

"We have to warn the girls." Janice answered. She located a match on the shelf in the dark. She lit two candles where they had been stationed in case of an emergency.

"What about Gabrielle?" Pappy asked.

Janice frowned in concentration and frustration. There was no way they could take on all the men that had invaded their home. Now one of their guest was a hostage. But there was something they could do. "I think I have a plan." She said looking at Pappy.

"Well?" Pappy asked agitated.

"You sneak out back and get the horse. Go to John's and get the girls."

"What about you?" Pappy asked suspiciously.

"I'll climb up on the roof. Keep an eye on these bastards and find out where they take Gabrielle."

"That's it!"

"What else can we do?" Janice finished.

Staring at her companion Pappy had to agree. "You keep your head down you old bag." Pappy snorted as she headed for the rear exit.

"You too, old woman." Janice smiled at her back.

Carefully Janice crawled out of the trap door and onto the roof. Lying flat against the tile, she studied the immediate area. Being an archeologist had taught Janice the importance of hidden passageways. She had utilized that knowledge when designing the house, including the ladder that led into the roof access chamber of the adobe house. Blowing the dust off the binoculars, she caught a quick glimpse of Pappy dashing from the tunnel entrance to the barn. Seeing no other movement near the barn, she was satisfied about Pappy's safety and turned her attention back toward the activity out front.

"Forget the old women" Hawks yelled from under her, "They can deliver our message to the others."

A trio emerged from the house surrounding a bound and gaged Gabrielle. Janice felt her temper flair. Roughly they dragged her ancestor to the covered army truck and threw her in the back. "Bastards." Janice mumble under her breath. Desperately she wished to be ten years younger and have a fully loaded Gatling Gun at her disposal. The young men that had escorted Gabrielle climbed into the truck, disappearing from sight.

Hawks emerged from the house with his arm thrown casually around a strange woman. They climbed into the front of the vehicle. The engine was brought to life and slowly moved down the driveway.

'Thank God for the flat desert.' Janice thought as the dust trail began moving. Watching the vehicle, she saw it turn left and head toward the distant cliffs. She brought the binoculars to her eyes and watched them until they were only a speck in the distance. Satisfied she knew their destination, Janice reentered the trap door and climbed down the ladder. Pappy shouldn't be much longer she thought to herself. By horse John's place was only across the field and on the other side of the hill.

The old chief suppressed a chuckle of amusement when he saw three stunning women perched nervously in his living room. Forcing a solemn look on his face, he shuffled to the chair strategically placed in front of the sofa. Easing into the chair, he calmly looked at the women until they began to fidget nervously.

When he finally spoke his voice deeply resonated in his chest. "You are the granddaughters of Pappy and Janice. I have been expecting you."

He held himself with calm dignity, allowing silence to descend in the room once more. Watching his visitors intently, he waited until he was sure their attention was riveted on him before continuing, "You seek the Icon?" It was said as a statement more than a question.

Aven swallowed nervously and shook her head yes.

The old man met her eyes and held them. His eyes seeming to bore into her soul. Happy with what he saw he turned the look on Melanie, then Xena. "You have your mother's heart." He directed at Melanie, then to Aven he stated, "And you have your mothers fire."

With a grunt he rose from the chair and shuffled over to a battered cabinet sitting in a corner of the room. Opening one of the small drawers, he rummaged around for a moment. He gave another grunt as he found what he was looking for and turned back to his guests. "The Icon chooses the warrior that will wield it. Neither you or I can determine who that is. That is why it stays hidden in a secret cavern. It will be used only when the time is right and by the right people." He leaned over to Aven and handed her an old piece of paper. "Follow this map. Only your wits and pure heart will guarantee success once you are in the cavern. If your are the chosen the Icon will lead you safely to it."

Aven nodded understanding and opened the piece of paper. "Listen to your intuitions, that is how the magic speaks to you." He added and stepped back, allowing them a moment to study the map. Aven bent her head to study the old scrape of paper, Xena and Melanie also leaning in to get a better look.

"I was chosen as a protector." He began anew, "I met your grandmothers right after the war. I dreamed about two women that would change my life. When I walked on that train, I almost turned and ran. They were on their way home just like me and something seemed to sing to my heart as I approached them. I was drawn to them. As a young man I thought it was merely lust for two beautiful women. Soon I realized it was much more. We struck up a conversation. It was apparent that they were worried and nervous about something. They didn't seem eager to share with a stranger so after a while I drifted off to sleep. There is no way to describe the dream I had or the things I saw. When I woke up I asked them to tell me about the Icon. They were terrified." He paused, lost in the memories.

"What happened next?" Melanie prompted, enraptured.

Shaking himself out of the reverie, he continued, "I think they sensed a feeling of safety from me and the story just spilled out. They talked and I listened well into the night. When they were out of words we sat in silence. Just as the sun was kissing the horizon, Janice asked me if I could help. Without hesitation, I said yes." Frowning for emphasis, John looked at the women across from him. His face revealed the awe and wonder he still felt at that contact. Sobering again he continued, "When I held the Icon in my hands, I knew what my destiny was. My tribe is from Arizona, so I went home to seek the council of my tribes Medicine man. The precious Icon was still in my possession then. For two weeks we prayed and meditated and at the end of that time my spirit guide showed himself to me. The Icon sang to both of us and told us what to do. The guide, a Coyote showed me the place on the map. I've been here ever since." The old man stopped as his woman entered the room with four cups of steaming tea on a tray. She set the tray down on the table, squeezed John's shoulder and turned to leave. Meeting her eyes, he smiled and mouthed a silent thank-you. Slowly and deliberately he picked up a cup and sipped it. In unison, the women did the same thing, almost as if they were hypnotized.

John closed his eyes savoring the warm liquid poing down his throat. When he opened them again he looked straight into Aven's eyes. "The map will lead you to the beginning. That is all I can do for you."

Suddenly as if on cue, the sound of rushed hoof beats were heard outside. Then they heard someone calling Aven's name.

Xena sprang to her feet, sword in hand and ran to the door. Aven and Melanie were not far behind her as she rushed outside. Seeing Pappy on the galloping horse, Xena sheathed the sword and grabbed the reins as the horse slid to a stop. Pappy jerked upright and flung herself from the horses back, "They have Gabrielle." She managed breathlessly.

Xena's eyes widened, "What?" Fiercely she grabbed the older woman by the shoulders. "Where is she? How many were there? Where were you?" Xena hissed. Unconsciously she shook Pappy harder with each question.

Stunned, Pappy looked blankly at Xena until she was shaken again. Anger replaced confusion and drawing herself up to her full height, Pappy glared at the younger version of herself. Wrapping the dignity of age around her, Pappy met Xena's frantic and angry stare. "Calm yourself young woman. I am not the enemy."

Xena released Pappy but the Warriors cry to battle to protect her friend would not be silenced, "Where were you? How did he find you? By the Gods if anything happens to her..."

"Hold it." Pappy interrupted, for the first time showing how much of a resemblance she bore to the Warrior, "We will rescue her but not by standing here arguing."

The two women glared at each other. Pappy felt falsely accused and Xena felt helpless, knowing that Gabrielle was in grave danger now that Hawks had her.

"We trusted you. All of you." Xena growled lowly, looking at all of them, "And you abandoned her."

"You think we betrayed that trust?" Pappy spat out in disbelief, "We wouldn't betray either of you or risk her life. We are here to help you and will. If you'll let us."

"Look at what your help has done." The Warrior Princess shot back. Xena knew what Hawks was capable of. Her promise to Gabrielle that Dahok would never hurt her again drove all reason from Xena. Jerking the reins of the horse, the startled animal stumbled to her side. Xena stepped back to fling herself on the horse. Her flight was halted by a steel grip on her free arm.

Turning angrily, she was caught in the steady glare of Aven's eyes. Fire seemed to dance from the ocean blue eyes, "We are in this together!" Aven said forcefully, "No time now for self pity!"

Xena's eyes widened and her nostrils flared in renewed anger. For a second, Aven thought she was about to be pummeled by the Warrior. Then sanity appeared to return to the ice blue eyes of the Warrior. Xena looked to the ground in embarrassment. Slowly she brought her eyes back up to met Aven's. Smiling grimly she nodded. "You're right. This is no time to indulge in emotions." Snatching a quick look at Pappy she added, "I'm sorry."

With a curt nod, Aven smiled, "Then let's go get Gabrielle and kick some ass. The Bronco is faster, though." She added with a wry grin.

Melanie was already moving toward the vehicle with long strides. She kept her arm protectively around Pappy. Leaning her head toward her grandmother, she listened to the events that had transpired at the house. In minutes all four were in the Bronco and racing across the field bouncing roughly over the bumpy land. Pappy directed them to the gate and they were pulled up beside the house.

Janice was waiting impatiently, backpack and rifle slung over her shoulder. "I know where they've taken her." She replied climbing into the Bronco. "That way." She directed, pointing toward the distant bluffs. "I'm sure they're hiding in the caves up there and I bet dollars to doughnuts I know which one he's staked out."

The Bronco tore down the driveway and followed the tread marks left by the army truck.

Silence held sway in the Bronco for several minutes until Aven looked at Xena, a mixture of anger and pleasure radiating from her face, "Time to kill the bastard."

7.

Gabrielle sat quietly in the dim coolness of the stone tunnel. Gently she rubbed her chafed wrists. The natural cavern had a large tunnel running through it and several small chambers branching off the main passageway. Hawks and Barbara had disappeared into one of the chambers a short time ago after dispersing his troops around the cavern. He had left four guards including the robed followers to keep an eye on her.

She was glad he had left her alone. Other than the chafed wrist, she had not been hurt physically nor would she. He had assured her of that much. After listening to his rantings and plans of conquest, she felt as if she had been beaten. Thanks to his bragging she knew his plans. Now she hoped for the opportunity to escape and tell the others. Casually, she glanced around the cave trying to formulate a plan. Then there was a large explosion toward the mouth of the cave.

Hawks and Barbara ran out into the tunnel clothes disheveled and startled. Another explosion shook the ground. "Check it out!" Hawks barked at the guards as a cloud of dust drifted down the tunnel toward them. Two of the four rushed forward, Hawks and Castille hot on their heels.

As they disappeared, Gabrielle looked at the two remaining guards. The one in the farthest corner stared ahead. The other, much closer, met her look. Slightly raising the barretta he was holding. She wondered if she could make it into one of the branching caverns. If she could outrun a bullet from the gun.

She stopped wondering when a frying pan appeared behind the gunman's head and crashed down with a resounding clang. Across the tunnel the same fate befell the other guard.

"Let's go." The older version of Xena urged as she stepped over the fallen guard. Another explosion outside got Gabrielle moving and she followed her rescuers into one of the tunnels.

Janice led the way, Pappy brought up the rear. Venturing into the twist and turns of the cave, they stumbled into bright sunshine.

Gabrielle squinted against the blinding light and felt hands steadying her. As her eyes grew accustomed to the light, she found herself high above the desert floor on a rocky ledge. "Let's get out of here." Janice smiled and began down the ledge.

Following close behind Janice, Gabrielle realized that the ledge appeared to be slender and crumbling. It was in fact quite sturdy and smooth. "How did you find me? Where are Xena and your granddaughters?" Gabrielle asked halfway down the ledge.

Before they could answer a voice sounded out above them. "There!"

All three women looked up and back. They saw one of Hawks soldiers leaning out of the doorway and taking aim. They were fully exposed to the gunman, the rocky cliff offering no cover. Janice pushed Gabrielle behind her and Pappy moved beside the older woman, completely blocking the Bard from harm.

The soldier took aim, smiling. A blur appeared and struck him in the chest. Staring down he saw the shaft of an arrow protruding from his chest. His heart slowed as the blood poured from the wound. Losing his balance he tumbled from his spot on the cliff. Another gunman immediately took his place. He too fell from the cave doorway, an arrow through his throat.

Assuming it had been Xena, Gabrielle was surprised to find Aven perched on the cliff opposite them, crossbow loaded and ready for the next rabbit. Motioning downward, Janice urged Gabrielle forward while Aven covering their escape.

Xena and Melanie were waiting below, Bronco ready to roll.

Learning his lesson the next gunman out the doorway eased out cautiously. Slowly he peered around the edge.

Almost to the desert floor, Gabrielle heard Melanie yell, "Jump." And quickly complied. She leapt off the last ledge and landed in the strong arms of Melanie and Xena.

"Welcome back." Melanie greeted with a smile.

"Are you alright?" Xena asked with concern.

"Glad to be back and yes." She answered. With care she was deposited on the sandy earth.

Janice and Pappy jumped down to their awaiting arms. Once on the ground, Xena pulled everyone back toward the Bronco and Melanie waved a signal to Aven.

Changing arrows Aven fired at the caverns back door. The explosive hit its mark. The opening disappeared in a flash of flame. An ensuing land slide sealing it tightly.

Receiving a thumbs up from the grandmothers and Melanie, Aven slung the crossbow and equipment bag across her back. Then she began repelling down to the others.

"She does love those big booms." Melanie grinned as she and Xena took up positions to cover Aven as she slid down. Aven had explained that when at Ram's she had procured some explosive tipped arrowheads. Now it had seemed fortunate indeed, almost predestined.

A shot rang out bouncing off the rock right beside Avens's head. Keeping a steady grip on the rope Aven ducked aside as splinters of rock spraying her face.

In the blink of an eye, Xena had whirled around and released the chakram. Melanie stared in awe as the sharpened disk, the model for her families coat of arms, went into action. Ricocheting off two opposite stones, the chakram neatly sliced the gunman's throat before returning to its mistress' hand.

"Too cool." Melanie smiled as Xena returned the Chakram to her hip.

Aven landed on the ground. Abandoning the rope she ran over to them. "Well done." Xena congratulated her.

"It's in the genes." Aven joked, directing a look at Gabrielle and Janice.

"I suggest we get our genes out of here." Janice replied motioning to the Bronco.

The distant shouting of Hawks soldiers was all the encouragement they needed as the six women climbed into the Bronco. Flooring the gas, the 4x4 leaped into the motion, Melanie at home behind the wheel.

In the back seat Xena protectively put her arm around Gabrielle's shoulders, "Did he hurt you?"

"No." Gabrielle assured her. With each mile the caverns became a speck in the distance, "But I do know his plans now."

Glancing in the rearview, Melanie asked, "Care to share?"

"The guys we followed here from our time." Gabrielle began, "Their mission is to get something called an Antrax virus and bring it back to Dahok."

"Anthrax?!" Aven corrected. The nightmare came flooding back in all its vivid horror, "That was the plague from our dream." Her face paling, she realized his plans, "Shit Mel. He's going to release the Anthrax virus in Ancient Greece."

"This Anthrax is deadly?" Xena questioned.

"Oh yeah." Melanie sighed. She couldn't comprehend what a virus like that would do to an ancient civilization. Anthrax was deadly in modern times but in the past. With no way to take precautions its effect on the populace would be devastating.

"That's how he plans to cleanse the world. If this virus is kills most of the people, he can go unchallenged and rule the world." Xena finished.

"If he secures the Icon and uses the virus, he can't be stopped. All history will change." Pappy observed.

"Yeah, well he doesn't have the Icon and he won't get it." Janice said with conviction.

"He'll have to kill me before I let him get his hands on it." Aven vowed from beside Xena.

Gabrielle looked at her, hesitant to go on but knowing it was imperative. "He won't kill you Aven. I'm for Dahok and you are for David."

"What?" Xena asked unsure of her hearing.

"Their men have orders to kill you and Melanie. I'm the mother. Dahok wants me by his side, as a trophy. David wants Aven as his bride, to-- produce an heir."

Again Melanie looked in the rearview concentrating on Aven. The young woman had closed her eyes and seemed to shrink against the seat trembling slightly. Anger raged in Melanie. One way or another she was going to make Hawks pay for what he had done and was doing to her friend. Shifting her eyes, Melanie met Xena's stare. Two thousand years separated them but they shared the same thought and feelings.

"We won't let that happen." Xena voiced for both of them. Gritting her teeth and nodding in agreement, Melanie turned her attention back to the desert.

"Girls," Janice interrupted, "This is very dangerous business. You must get the Icon first. Then use it to open a portal."

Pappy turned in the seat to look at Xena and Gabrielle. "You two go through with the Icon. That should put a stop to this Dahok's plans. History shows he was stopped with it and now we know who used it. You know where the Icon is and we've got a head start."

"Pull over up there." Janice instructed, pointing at a group of adobes in the distance. "That's where we get off."

"You're not coming with us?" Xena asked.

"We weren't in the dream." Pappy smiled, "We're not as young as we used to be and would only be a hindrance."

"The word hindrance is not one I would use to describe you Gram." Melanie replied as she eased the Bronco into the village.

Pappy offered Melanie a warm smile and Janice continued, "You four have the power. The ones who must face this evil and stop it." Janice directed her gaze at Aven, "Your whole life has been in preparation for this. You and Mel have a destiny."

Xena and Gabrielle exchanged looks. The words had been uttered between them as well at various times during their adventures.

"A destiny that binds us in past, present and future." Gabrielle thought aloud.

As Melanie pulled to a stop, several Indians approached the Bronco. A wave from Janice and Pappy seemed to dissipate the tension. "Ffollow the map to the caves and find the Icon. Then you kick his ass." Janice instructed and opened the Bronco door, "Pleasure meeting you two." She directed at Xena and Gabrielle, and then exited the vehicle.

"And you." Xena returned.

"We'll be waiting here girls." Pappy said as she followed Janice hesitantly, "Be careful."

"Always." Melanie smiled bravely, "See you soon."

The six women, generations of the same family, exchanged final parting glances. A million thoughts, questions and words passing between them in silence.

Janice shut the door, snatching another quick look at her granddaughter, then she and Pappy stepped away from the Bronco. Both waved solemnly as the 4x4 eased away and disappeared into the horizon.

Thirty miles later the map led them to an unimpressive stone outcropping. Melanie maneuvered the 4x4 behind the corner of the mini mountain out of sight. Each woman grabbed their backpacks and weapons then exited the Bronco.

Slowly, they hiked around the stones, looking for the passageway indicated on the map. "Here!" Melanie called ten minutes later.

As the other three joined her, they found a doorway in the stones face. It was so well hidden by nature that without the map they could have walked by it a hundred times and never seen it.

"Wanna flip a dinar to see who goes first?" Gabrielle asked, searching the darkened access way.

All three women looked to Xena, expectantly. "Follow me." She sighed and walked to the entrance.

Melanie moved up behind her and held out a flashlight, "You'll need this."

Xena looked at the cylinder oddly, "What is it?"

"Modern torch." Melanie replied and flipped on the switch, chasing away the shadows from the entrance.

Smiling, Xena accepted it. She held it tightly, closely examining it and getting used to the weight. Melanie handed another flashlight to Aven, who volunteered to bring up the rear.

"Ready?" Xena asked. Nodding, they ventured into the darkness of the cave.

They moved slowly down the passageway. All keept their senses alert for clues to the Icon. As they got further into the cave they noticed how the path descended. The walls appeared to be closing in as well. "It's getting tight in here." Xena remarked as she slowed her step.

Melanie stopped behind her. "Maybe we missed the entrance of another tunnel."

Xena raised the flashlight and aimed it forward. The path narrowed even more and ended a few yards ahead in a large stone wall. "I hope so. This is a dead end."

"Maybe not." Gabrielle replied and slipped past Melanie and Xena. She studied the wall for a moment. Then moved closer until she was right in front of it.

Xena joined her and noticed what had caught Gabrielle's attention. What she had assumed was a natural formation on the wall was a lever. "Good job."

"But I don't understand the language." Gabrielle replied, her eyes never leaving the markings on the wall. Following Gabrielle's gaze, Xena saw the odd markings on the wall above the lever.

"It's Navaho." Melanie said as she stepped closer. She positioned Xena's flashlight to illuminate the markings even more.

"What does it say?" Aven questioned.

Squeezing past them, she touched the wall, "The--journey--begins--" She struggled to remember her grandmothers teachings, "with--the faithful."

The women fell silent as they thought about the message. "The journey begins with the faithful." Melanie repeated.

"What does that mean?" Gabrielle asked.

Aven offered a suggestion. "That to find the Icon, we must have faith."

"We wouldn't be here if we didn't." Xena pointed out. Turning her attention back to the lever, she inspected it closely. "This may open a secret passageway."

"I don't think so." Aven disagreed, "It's too easy."

Straightening up, Xena nodded, "You're right. It's a trap."

"How do you know?" Melanie piped in.

"She knows." Gabrielle convinced them.

Xena began examining the wall throughly.

"There has to be a way in." Aven replied leaning against the wall, "We just have to think faith."

Melanie's mind began running, "Faith. To have faith you must have belief. Trust."

Aven unconsciously looked upward and stiffened. She brought the flashlight up and illuminated the cave ceiling. "Yoohoo." She called softly.

Three other heads followed her lead and saw the slender shaft above them. It rose twenty feet into the stone and was two feet wide at most.

"We can't fit in that." Gabrielle whispered.

"Xena, shine your light up there with Aven's." Melanie instructed, pointing upward.

Taking a step forward, Xena did as asked. With the shaft lit up they could easily spot the trigger mechanism at the end of it.

"Bingo." Melanie said in elation, then sighed, "But how are we supposed to reach it?"

"Are we supposed too?" Gabrielle countered, "Maybe it's another trap."

"That's our way in." Xena smiled with certainty, "And Aven can open the door."

Aven's eyes froze in surprise, "Me?"

Xena stepped up beside Aven and draped her arm around the woman's shoulders, "Of course we can't reach it. But you can use your crossbow. You hit the trigger and we're on our way."

Aven tried to pull away but Xena held firm, still smiling. Aven sought out Melanie for help, "You can shoot the trigger. We have guns."

Melanie followed Xena's lead, "Bullets ricochet. If it's not a dead on hit, one of us could be hit and killed."

"You're a good shot. You can hit it." Aven argued uncomfortably.

Gabrielle jumped on the band wagon, "I've seen you in action, Aven. You can hit that trigger. You did it once to save our lives."

"And if I miss this time, one of you could die." Aven sulked.

"We're wasting time." Xena said forcefully, "Aven, we need your skills."

Melanie appeared beside them, Aven's crossbow and quiver of arrows in her hand, "You can do it." She encouraged.

Aven sighed deeply, surrendering.

In a matter of minutes, Aven was lying on the cavern floor, crossbow loaded and primed. Melanie stood over her, aiming both flashlights up the narrow shaft.

Xena and Gabrielle took up position a few feet back. They were giving them plenty of room but would be ready to act if something went wrong.

Aven focused. Her talent with the crossbow had won competitions at the Faire'. She had successfully covered Gabrielle's escape from Hawks but doubt still nagged at her.

She looked up at Melanie. Melanie met her gaze, and she saw unwavering confidence reflected in those eyes.

Taking a deep breath Aven brought the crossbow up taking careful aim. Melanie held the lights perfectly still as Aven exhaled, releasing the arrow. The women held their breath as the arrow disappeared in the shaft. Melanie struggled to hold the flashlights steady as the arrow plunged into the triggering mechanism.

There was no movement or sound for a minute. Then a low rumbling filled the cavern. Melanie lowered the flashlights, tossed one back to Xena's waiting hand and reached her free hand out to Aven.

Aven grasped the offered hand and was pulled to her feet. The wall of the cave was shaking and groaning against its restraints. Melanie and Aven moved back with Xena and Gabrielle, watching as the wall slid away prepared to act if threatened. A small cloud of dust engulfed them as the wall came to a stop.

Tentatively, Melanie stepped forward aiming her light into the newly revealed opening. It was a pitch black cavern with a stone stairway leading down.

"Good shot." Gabrielle complimented.

Xena leaned in close and spoke so lowly that only Aven could hear, "Were you aiming at his head?"

"Lower." Aven blushed.

Satisfied that this was the way Melanie took a step forward. "Damn the torpedoes." She muttered and entered the new cavern.

The decent down the stairway was slow and treacherous. The stairs descended down the center of the cavern, leaving empty space on each side. To miss a step or loose your footing would result in a fatal fall into the darkness below.

Melanie carefully led the way, her flashlight barely illuminating the inky blackness surrounding them. Aven kept a firm grip on the back of Melanie's shirt, Gabrielle doing the same behind her. Xena brought up the rear, her hand protectively on the Bard's shoulder.

The cavern was silent save for the sound of their cautious steps and tense breathing. As they proceeded downward Melanie found her thoughts drifting over the events that led them here.

The night Aven had awoken her because of a dream seemed ages ago instead of only a few days. The first meeting with Xena and Gabrielle, the shooting at the dinner, her frantic search for Aven and Melanie's first kill. It all seemed like a movie or elaborate dream. Jacques had pointed out that this was not like one of her role playing games or books and in that he was right. This was much better she smiled to herself. She had always thought her life was full and exciting and she had been rudely awakened. Despite the danger and close calls she loved the real life adventure.

Unconsciously, she had picked up speed and now felt a warning tug on her waist. Having no idea if Aven could see she nodded and slowed down. Now her thoughts fell on the young woman behind her. Aven had been to hell and back. Risking her own life and sanity to protect Melanie from Hawks. Melanie felt the anger rolling in the pit of her stomach. Her friendship with Aven had filled a whole in her life. Not much for sentimentality, she could never tell her friend how precious she was to her. Aven had no problem displaying her affection and how much she prized Melanie. But Melanie was more guarded and that was going to change. Hawks had taken Aven and abused her trust and spirit. When Melanie looked into Aven's eyes, she saw that part of that spirit was lost forever. Even in her drugged slumber she had not been able to escape the nightmare David had planted. Gritting her teeth, Melanie fantasized about subjecting him to the same tortures he had visited on Aven. She formed a mental picture of him lying on the ground. Bloody, hurt and humiliated. She could almost hear his pleas of mercy as she punished him again and again for Aven.

She was so caught up in her dreams of retaliation that she missed the sprinkle of gravels on the step. She felt her foot skidding and threw out her arms to try to stop the tumble. With nothing to grab a hold on for balance her weight shifted and her feet launched off the step, tossing her into the darkness.

'Falling!' He mind screamed as an iron lock captured her wrist and kept her from tumbling any further into the abyss.

Looking up she saw Aven's face above her hanging off the steps and struggling to keep from sliding off the perch.

Gabrielle jumped on top of Aven's legs as she slid and wrapped her arms around her descendants waist, scrambling to keep from toppling over with them.

Xena moved in to anchor Gabrielle. She wrapped muscular legs around the Bard then she locked a firm grip on the opposite side of the stairs.

Eyes wide, Melanie glanced below her and found only blackness. Turning back to Aven, she saw the straining, sweat drenched face of her friend. Realizing how precarious the situation was she whispered, "Let me go."

Aven clenched her teeth, "NO." and tightened her grip.

"There's no reason for all of us to die." Melanie argued, feeling the pull of gravity.

"Xena?" Aven called.

"Hurry it up!" Xena answered in a strained voice.

Aven extended her other hand, "Take it."

Reaching up, Melanie seized the awaiting hand. "Now climb up." Aven ordered.

Seeing the look of determination on Aven's face Melanie knew that she wouldn't let go. Even if it meant both their deaths. With renewed strength, she began lifting herself up. Aven's grip never wavered as Melanie eased herself up, using Aven's body as a ladder to the steps. Grabbing Gabrielle's shoulders as a final hold, Melanie pulled herself up and onto the steps.

Immediately, she turned and grabbed Avens' waist and along with Gabrielle pulled her to safety. Exhausted, the four women sprawled on the steps, breath ragged and hearts pounding.

"Thanks." Melanie wheezed between breaths

"Couldn't let you leave the party so soon." Xena smiled, her arms still quivering from the strain.

"I wasn't paying attention. I'm sorry. And I lost one of our flashlights." Melanie apologized.

"The flashlight," Gabrielle grinned, "We can get when we reach the bottom."

"Huh?" Melanie asked.

Gabrielle motioned over the side of the steps. Melanie, Xena and Aven carefully glanced over the edge and saw a very faint light below.

The four women sighed in relief. "We're getting close to the bottom." Gabrielle announced and then added, "And whatever may be waiting down there."

Xena rose to her feet. "I'll take point for awhile." Seeing Melanie's head drop in shame, Xena directed her stare at the woman, "You've had a bad scare and need some time to regroup. It's not that I don't trust you to lead."

Melanie looked up, wanting to believe but still doubtful. Xena reached out her hand, "We can't sit here all day."

Accepting the hand as well as the explanation, Melanie was lifted to her feet. "I'll bring up the rear." Aven volunteered.

"We'll take it slow." Xena instructed, "Stay close and hang onto one another." Her face darkened when she added, "And be ready for anything."

With that, they continued their cautious descent.

The stairs ended in a smooth walled, circular cavern. Gabrielle plucked the fallen flashlight from the cavern floor and merged the light with Xena's as it swept the room. The search revealed three sealed doorways with messages carved into the stone.

"That language?" Melanie said puzzled, "It look familiar but I can't place it."

"It's Greek." Gabrielle acknowledged, "Our language."

Aven stepped closer, "Ancient Greek? Here?"

It took only a second for the implications to soak in. "Coincidence." Xena dismissed

"Destiny." Melanie countered.

"So what does it say?" Aven asked.

"Belief." Gabrielle stated.

"What?" Aven and Melanie questioned in unison.

"One word." Xena answered, "Belief." Turning her light, she walked to the next doorway. "Faith." Then proceeded on to the last, "Salvation."

Melanie stomped her foot on the dirt floor, "That's it? Belief, faith and salvation?"

Xena nodded, "That's it."

"So which do we choose. What door will take us to the Icon?" Gabrielle asked aloud the thought they all shared.

Again they scanned the doors, searching for more clues they might have missed the first time.

"Belief led us here." Aven observed standing in front of that door.

"Faith opened the door." Xena added from her own spot.

Melanie pointed to the door in front of her, "Salvation when we find the Icon?"

There seemed to be no counter point, so the three women joined her in front of the Salvation door. Xena drew her sword, "Stand off to the side." She cautioned her companions.

Aven looked at the door and lever, "Someone has to open it and that means standing in front."

Xena started to move but Aven waved her away, "I'll do it."

"Aven?" Gabrielle and Melanie started to protest but Aven silenced them, "We're wasting time." She stated bluntly and grasped the lever.

Melanie drew her own sword and took a stance opposite Xena. Aven looked at both of them, then Gabrielle who was just behind Melanie, staff firmly in hand.

Nodding readiness, Aven pushed the trigger downward.

There was no delay as the door quickly retracted into the ceiling. Aven saw movement and then an approaching blur. She had no time to react as a faster blur reached out and intercepted the first. Blinking, Aven saw the well sharpened point of a spear only an inch from her face. Attached to the spear was Xena's hand, the halting force. "Unghh." Was the only thing Aven could get out as she swayed slightly.

Melanie moved in and maneuvered Aven to the side, away from the doorway, "You okay?"

Aven's eyes were still wide in shock. She opened her mouth to speak, then closed it. Finally she managed, "Uh yeah. I think."

Xena had dropped the spear and was cautiously looking in the open doorway.

Gabrielle stood beside Aven, placing a calming hand on her shoulder, "It's kind of unnerving when she does that."

Had Xena not acted, Avens head would now be skewered to the stairway and in fully comprehending this, Aven began to feel light headed.

Leaving Gabrielle to steady Aven, Melanie ventured over and joined Xena in her examination of the open doorway.

Melanie emitted a muffled gasp when she saw what was inside the doorway. Xena's flashlight beam danced over the two unreleased spears, still resting in the ancient holder.

"Yea." Xena replied, "The firing mechanism on the other two must have malfunctioned, thank the Gods."

"Salvation in death." Melanie whispered as cast a quick look at Aven, understanding how close to dying she had come. Without warning, Xena reached out and shoved Melanie backward. Rolling backwards, Melanie felt a gush of musty air and her temper flare. Recovering, she assumed a crouching stance and glared at Xena, "What the hell...?"

Before she could continue, the salvation door settled back into its closed position. Melanie realized the purpose of the shove and bit back her anger, "Thanks."

Xena pulled her to her feet, "Sorry. I didn't mean to push you that hard."

Melanie shrugged it off, "No problem, but we still have two more doors to go."

"Faith led us in the first door." Gabrielle said as she and Aven joined them in their examination of the other doors, "Maybe that's the key."

"I think I'll let someone else open that door." Aven mumbled softly.

Xena cracked a smile, "I'll take the next one."

Aven met Xena's eyes, "You saved my life. Thank you."

Xena felt a blush heating her cheeks, "We have to look out for one another."

"Shall we see what's behind door number two?" Melanie asked in her best game show announcers voice.

They were prepared for anything when Xena activated the trigger on the faith door. After she depressed the lever, Xena flipped out of the line of fire. There was a slight delay before the door slid open revealing a darkened hole. Gabrielle and Melanie aimed their lights in the entrance and found a hallway clear of spears or any other welcoming devices.

"Slow and easy." Xena cautioned as she lead the way into the cave.

Fifty yards in the door slid to a close behind them. Gabrielle emitted a muffled yelp of alarm, the other three crouched down, ready to react. Holding their positions there was no other sounds or movement and they began moving again. Ten minutes later they found another booby-trap.

Xena stopped in mid step, foot hanging in the air. The others stopped behind her and froze in place. "Trip wire." Xena whispered over her shoulder and shined the light on a thin thread an inch above the ground.

She kneeled down and studied the wire and ground for a minute. Then she let her eyes roam across the rock walls. Satisfied that there was no second trip wire, she stood up and carefully stepped over the thread. Motioning for the others to follow she guided them gently over. Once they were clear they stepped back a few steps. Gabrielle stretched her staff toward the thread, Xena holding her waist band for balance.

The staff bounced off the wire and Gabrielle was pulled out of harms away. The ground where they had been standing on the other side of the wire fell away.

When the dust settled, all four moved as one to peer into the open pit. "Ouch." Aven stated as they observed the sharpened spikes rising from the ground of the pit.

"This place is really starting to get on my nerves." Melanie whined, propping her hands on her hips for emphasis.

Gabrielle moved back from them and turned, shining her light down the hallway. "Better look at this." She called over her shoulder.

The hall came to a dead end. Sighing, they moved toward the stone wall. As they got closer they saw the indentation in the stone. Further examination revealed a crevice, the trigger inside, a hand print indented on smooth stone.

"My turn." Gabrielle said and started to reach in the crevice.

Xena seized her arm, "Wait a second--"

"Xena," Gabrielle sighed, "Look at the imprint. It's for a small hand." She raised her hand up to Xena's face, "My hand."

Aven's hand joined Gabrielle's, "Or mine."

Melanie joined Xena's protest, "Hold on a second."

Both brunettes were silenced by the look the blonds shot at them. Aven was surprised when Gabrielle turned the look on her, "This one's mine."

An icy finger went down Aven's spine. She recognized the look Gabrielle had on her face. It was the same expression she used when her mind was made up and arguing was useless. She was a master at delivering that look, not receiving it. The sensation was like looking in a mirror for the first time. She lowered her hand. "Agreed."

Taking a deep breath, Gabrielle walked forward, pushing her arm into the crevice. Her arm disappeared to the elbow. "Perfect fit." She smiled over her shoulder.

Xena was right beside her, hovering protectively.

"What now?" Melanie asked, scanning the walls for any changes.

Gabrielle wiggled her arm in the crevice, "When I push I feel it giving like it wants to turn." With her hand settled in the cool rock she followed her observation and pressing against the stone, turned it clockwise. It moved smoothly and stopped after a quarter turn.

Without warning a stone clamp suddenly slid down seizing Gabrielle's arm in place. Instinctively, she tried to wrench her arm out of the crevice but the clamp held firm. Xena and Melanie jumped at the wall, digging their fingers against the clamp, trying to prize it open. Aven grabbed Gabrielle's waist, bracing a foot against the wall and tried to pull her free.

"Wait! Stop." Gabrielle shouted as she felt movement under her hand.

The three women stopped their rescue attempts but stayed in place. "What is it?" Xena questioned, a bead of sweat from her exertion trickling down the side of her face.

Gabrielle's alarm had turned to wonder as she tried to reach further in the crevice. "A panel just opened." She answered, leaning against the wall. "There's something...got it." She said triumphantly.

The clamp unexpectedly released her arm, disappearing back into its stone berth. Gabrielle pulled her arm out of the crevice, a small metal box in her grasp.

After everything they had encountered in the cavern, they weren't that startled when a section of rock moved aside, revealing a new hallway.

"Is that it?" Aven gestured at the box.

The box was a simple, smooth iron box. No writing or jewels adorned the surface, only a thick coat of dust. "One way to find out." Gabrielle answered and pulled at the lid of the box. It refused to budge, ancient age fussing it shut.

"Let me try." Melanie and Xena said in unison.

Xena bowed slightly indicating Melanie to proceed. Melanie accepted the box from Gabrielle and placed it on the ground. She drew her sword and positioned it carefully over the box.

Gabrielle and Aven stared with concern, but Xena's look of confidence kept them silent. Melanie brought the sword down with just enough power to jolt the box slightly.

Gabrielle dropped to her knees and retrieved the box. This time when she added a bit more pressure the lid came off. A puff of ancient dust escaped and Gabrielle quickly waved it away.

Their flashlights illuminated the interior, revealing rumbled cloth. Gingerly, Gabrielle began pulling back the edges of the clothes, the beams of light flashing off something underneath. When the final corner was pulled away, they found a necklace. The chain was solid gold and heavy linked. The amulet on it was a miniature version of the Chakram, only in its center was a glass container. A dark fluid lapped at the interior of the glass and an air of power surrounded it.

Softly Gabrielle touched the amulet and felt a tingle shoot through her fingertips and encompass her entire being. "The Icon." She whispered.

Lifting it out of the box, she held it up for the others to see. The sense of awe they felt was obvious on their faces as they felt the power radiating from it.

"It will be safest with you." Gabrielle replied as she held it out to Xena.

Xena was going to protest but sensed that she was supposed to take it, for now. The words of John filled her mind, 'Listen to your instincts. That will be the magic speaking to you.' She took it from Gabrielle and felt the same sensation jarring her.

"There's something else." Gabrielle stated as Xena tucked the amulet down the front of her leather bodice.

"That's the safest place I can think of." Melanie joked and nudged Xena's shoulder.

Underneath the cloth lay a scroll of papas. It was aged and brittle and Gabrielle eased it out of the box. Delicately she unrolled it and was shocked to see it was in her language and that the writing was familiar. She paled as she read it and had she not been kneeling already, would have fallen.

"What is it, Gabrielle?" Aven asked, trying to sneak a glance at the scroll.

Wordlessly, Gabrielle handed it over to Xena. Curious, Xena began reading. Her stoic features paling slightly and expression darkening.

"What is the big mystery?" Melanie asked impatiently.

"Later." Xena dismissed and quickly rolled the scroll back up. She pointedly handed the scroll to Aven, "Hang onto this."

Giving her an odd look, Aven shrugged and accepted the scroll.

Melanie motioned toward the new opening, "I guess that's the way out."

Aven tucked the scroll into her backpack and stood up. "Time to send you home." She remarked, her voice tinged with sadness.

"Yea." Gabrielle agreed, the same tone creeping into her voice.

Flashlights ready, they proceeded through the new opening.

"What will you do when you get back?" Aven asked anew as they maneuvered down the new hallway.

"Get to Olympus and stop Dahok." Xena answered, "That is if we can get back home with this thing."

"We can." Gabrielle said with confidence.

They continued on for several minutes in silence, a sense of finality encompassing them and settling in.

"You remember what you said," Gabrielle directed to Aven, "about being proud of your heritage?"

Aven nodded.

"We may not have much more time in this world." She continued, "I just wanted to tell you that I'm proud of my descendants. Of you."

Blushing, Aven smiled weakly and dropped her eyes to the ground, "Thanks."

Xena leaned over to Melanie, "That goes for me too."

Melanie's cheeks flushed, "Thanks. I'm going to miss you Xena. Both of you."

"Yea." Aven agreed.

Gabrielle came to a stop, "Xena and I discussed it and we're not leaving until we help you deal with Hawks."

"No!" Aven almost shouted causing Gabrielle to step back. She realized her mistake instantly and sought to correct it. "I mean, the best way to end this is for you to stop Dahok. You do that and things will change here. Leave Hawks to us."

Xena watched them knowing that there was more to it than that.

"Aven," Gabrielle began, "We will take care of Dahok but we're not going to leave you to fight them alone. You and Melanie are outnumbered. We only want to help."

"We appreciate that." Melanie stepped in, "But we can handle it. I'm sure you've faced odds like this before and won. The main goal is to get the Icon and get you home so you can put a stop to this guy." Melanie's eyes darkened menacingly, "Hawks is mine."

Xena stepped forward, "I made you a promise at the cabin, Melanie. I keep my word."

Melanie's eyes dropped for a second, "I know and I would like nothing better than to have you by my side. But the two of you must go home."

Gabrielle looked at Aven, then turned a puzzled face to Xena. Xena shook her head, "Not buying it. Try again."

Now it was Aven and Melanie that exchanged looks. "What?" Aven mumbled.

"Try the truth." Xena suggested.

Melanie pulled Aven to the side and they conferred in whispers. Xena and Gabrielle leaned against the wall, waiting for an explanation. Finally the whispers stopped and the two women faced their ancestors.

Aven took a deep breath and began, "This is something that Mel and I have discussed. True we may be outnumbered and out gunned but getting you back home is more important--than anything."

"You are not expendable!" Xena stated flatly, understanding what they were saying.

"Yes we are." Melanie countered grimly.

Gabrielle stepped forward, fire in her eyes and voice, "Not to us you aren't. We've been in tough scrapes before and we'll come through this, together."

"The greater good." Aven replied meeting their eyes.

Both women were jolted by the phrase and Melanie continued, "We don't plan on falling, but if it comes to that the two of you must survive. You are the beginning. The start of the war between good and evil. Your descendants have fought in this war for a thousand years, the two of us included. If you die here in this time we cease to exist. All the soldiers of good, your progeny will cease to exist but Dahok has already begun his line. He can proceed unchecked with his plans of destruction. Now do you understand? You have to go back and fight and let us handle the battle in this time."

The cavern fell silent as her words sunk in. Xena and Gabrielle wanted to argue. Both searched for a good counter point but could not find one. The greater good was what the fought for. No matter the cost or how high. They both looked at their respective kin, a deeper admiration growing. It was the same decision they would make if the roles were reversed. Although they didn't like it they respected it.

"It won't come to that." Xena finally spoke.

"Of course not." Melanie smiled, "We've got your blood in our veins and that gives us a better than average shot."

Aven aimed her flashlight down the cavern, "We need to get out of here, then we can figure out how to open the portal and you two can go make history."

Nodding assent they continued on, each deep in thought.

Xena was the first to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Her eagle vision spotted it a good twenty yards before the others. Melanie squinted to see the distant light, "We've been going up for a while but there's no way we've reached the outside yet.

"Another cavern?" Gabrielle guessed.

"Probably." Xena acknowledged, "But it's too bright to just be torch light."

Cavern was an understatement as they ventured into the lightened room. They had found a huge stone Cathedral. Lit torches encircled the room and a single bright beam of sunlight shone down on a stone altar in the center of the room. The Cathedral was circular, the walls smooth except for the doorways situated at ten foot intervals, ten doors in all. An intricate pattern of lines and images decorated the floor as well as the altar.

"It's beautiful." Aven observed. Her mouth agape, she slowly moved around the circumference of the room.

"This must have some connection to the Icon." Xena said shadowing Aven.

"I certainly hope so." A deep voice boomed.

All four women had their weapons ready and assumed attack stances in the blink of an eye. They faced the doorways and were surprised to see Davis Hawks. Barbara and an entourage of twelve including the last two followers of Dahok emerged from the various doorways. Effectively they surrounded the women.

The four women began backing up until they were in a tight square, back to back and facing the enemy.

"Hawks." Melanie growled as she eyed him with contempt.

Smiling broadly he moved towards them arms outstretched, "None other."

Barbara stayed close to him as he walked to the altar and leaned up against it. "I'm so glad you could join us." Turning his attention to Gabrielle, he brought his left hand to his heart and feigned hurt, "Mother, you left so quickly. I hope it wasn't something I said."

Gabrielle remained silent, holding his eyes and revealing no emotion.

Aven felt her palms beginning to sweat when his gaze fell on her. She couldn't still the bolt of fear that shot through her at the sound of his voice. "My dear bride to be." He greeted and licked his lips hungrily, "I'm quite anxious to get on with our honeymoon. I've learned a few new tricks that I'm sure will get your attention."

When Aven spoke she tried to sound strong and sure but her voice failed her and was edged with terror, "Never again."

Melanie side stepped closer to Aven, a motion that didn't escape Hawks notice. "I'm sorry, Melanie." He grinned, "But my bride won't be needing anyone but me from now on."

Melanie seethed with anger. She wanted to leap at him and ram her sword into his black heart. Suddenly, she was stopped by a flash of memory. Xena tapping her forehead, 'this is your best weapon.' That thought made her squelch the anger and switch tactics. "Gee David. Aven said you were so lousy in bed that she wouldn't even date you again much less marry you."

Xena swallowed a laugh as she watched Hawks smile falter and become a sneer.

"You, little bitch, have served your purpose." And with a wave of his hand, Hawks sent her flying backward, landing just short of the wall.

Melanie landed hard on her rear end. A yelp of surprise rushed out along with the breath that was knocked out of her. The force of the landing had caused her to clench her teeth, biting a hole in her tongue. Now she tasted the coppery residue.

Aven jerked her head to where Melanie landed and was about to rush to her side. When Melanie waved her hand that she was alright. When Aven was sure she wasn't seriously hurt she turned on Hawks, "Bastard!" She yelled and charged at him, fear no longer a concern.

Amused, David let her get within feet of him before he flicked his finger and she too went flying through the air. Instantly, Xena was moving to intercept her as she crashed into the floor.

Gabrielle had gone to help Melanie up. Together they watched as Aven was caught by Xena, the force knocking both women to the ground.

"They fly through the air, with the greatest of ease--" David sang and waved his arms as if leading an imaginary band.

"Thanks" Aven replied as she rolled off Xena and got her bearings. Xena was on her feet a blink later, eyeing the guards around her. Next she focused her attention on Hawks.

"You know." She replied as she moved toward the altar, "You seem to be afraid of facing us, without resorting to warriors or magic."

Again David laughed and shook his head, "No, no. I simply want you to realize the power of Dahok. You should know what you're facing if you don't give me the Icon."

"We don't have it." Gabrielle tried.

She shivered when he flashed the same smile he had worn in the dream, "Mother please. I am not a fool."

"Stop calling me that!" She shot back.

Barbara giggled at the outburst. The other soldiers watched the scene with disinterest. When they had entered the caverns their number was twenty. The various booby traps had taken a good number of their force, almost half. They had lost two at the main door of the maze before Hawks had lost patience and had it dynamited open. One had fallen off the stairway, three more had died before they had gotten the belief door open. One more in a booby-trap in the cave that led them here and another once they reached the temple. They had been in the process of searching the temple when Hawks had sensed the coming presence of the four women. He had ordered them out of sight, to lay in wait for their pray.

"Give me the Icon." David said plainly, "I promise if you do, I'll kill you quickly." He motioned to Xena and Melanie, "Otherwise..."

One of the soldiers stepped forward and fired a shot at Melanie. Grunting, Melanie fell back to the floor, clutching her wounded left leg.

"Mel!" Aven screamed and reached for the gun in her waistband.

Xena and her Chakram were quicker. The disk soared past the shooter almost severing his head before ricocheting off a rock wall and returning to Xena's hand.

Gabrielle moved closer to Melanie, using her body as a barrier to protect the injured woman. Then she tried to access the injury.

One of the other soldiers had moved up and taken aim at Xena. Aven stepped in front of her becoming a human shield. With her gun drawn now, she fired three shots and took out two of the nearest attack dogs.

"Enough!" Hawks voice boomed.

The tone in his voice caused another shudder in Aven. It stopped when she felt Xena's strong hand on her shoulder.

He stopped leaning against the altar and stood up straight, his eyes reflecting his impatience. "I want the Icon."

Xena noticed that the two robed men stayed out of the action and close to the Altar. She reminded herself that they were the carriers of the virus that Dahok planned to unleash on Ancient Greece. The other solders began inching closer.

Gabrielle reached to Melanie and ripped off the tail of her khaki shirt, using it to bandage her leg. The bullet had torn through the calf muscle and exited neatly. The blood flow was slowing and it and made the wound look much worse than it actually was. Once Gabrielle had the bandage in place, Melanie blanked out the pain and with Gabrielle's help rose to her feet.

Aven and Xena breathed a mutual sigh of relief as their two comrades joined them in front of the altar.

"I told you, we don't have it." Gabrielle repeated defiantly.

Mock disappointment covered his features, "Fine." He growled, "We'll do it the hard way." He turned his focus on Aven.

Her head jerked slightly and she took a tentative step back. "Stop." She begged between clenched teeth. Her hands flew to her head as his stare intensified. "Get out of my head." She wheezed. Tensing, she fell to the stone floor, convulsing as her eyes rolled back in her head.

"What are you doing?" Xena snarled as the three of them surrounded their fallen comrade. Melanie tried to hold Aven's convulsing body still but to no avail. Turning, she gave Hawks a hate filled glare, "Leave her alone, you bastard! You're killing her!"

David took another step forward, "I don't need her mind, just her body."

Suddenly, Gabrielle was sliding backward away from them. When she stopped, she found herself unable to move, an invisible barrier around her. Xena was by her in an instant beating on the unseen barrier with all her might but unable to get through.

"Now," David clapped his hands together, "Mother and my bride are safe, so you can dispose of those two."

The soldiers, guns drawn, began moving in. Reluctantly, Xena and Melanie left their friends and prepared for battle. Xena sized up the situation. She and Melanie stood back to back slowly moving counter clockwise to keep the soldiers in view. Melanie had her gun but she could never use it against all of them. Xena's own sword was no match against the buzzing slugs from the guns. Reaching for her Chakram, she decided to even the odds.

Melanie, Hawks and Barbara watched as the Chakram arched and began ricocheting off the walls of the cavern and striking each gunmans hand, forcing them to drop their weapons. The soldiers cradled their injured hands as the Chakram returned and Xena replaced it with her sword.

"Let's play." She taunted.

Hawks gritted his teeth, "Kill them NOW!"

With the field more level, the two women leapt into action.

Xena jumped in the air kicked out her long legs and connected with the faces of two soldiers. Landing firmly, she brought her sword down across one of the stunned soldiers chest. She felt the warm spray of blood as he fell backwards, desperately trying to hold his innards in.

With the sword still clenched in her hand, she brought the other man down with a pulverizing right hook. Sensing movement behind her, she whirled around and delivered a firm, well placed boot in the soldiers groin. Eyes wide, the man grunted and dropped to his knees, clutching his crushed merchandise. Grabbing a handful of greasy hair, Xena introduced his face to her knee and let him fall. Without warning, she was hit from behind and sent sprawling onto the floor, stars speckling her vision.

Melanie's injury kept her from any fancy footwork but as two soldiers circled her, she went into action. As the first man reached out to grab her, she seized his wrist. Firmly she twisted his arm and dropped to her knee, smiling when she heard the satisfying break of a bone. When the other soldier came up behind her, she drove her elbow backward, the target hit as the man squealed and fell over clutching his groin.

Turning her attention back to the broken arm soldier, she used his limp, useless arm to pull herself up and began delivering a blinding succession of punches to his face. She only stopped when she saw his glazed eyes droop and a steady, heavy flow of blood pour from his nose. With a soft shove, he fell to the ground unmoving. The other man groaned from his place on the ground. Swallowing the pain from her injured leg, Melanie brought her booted foot down across his chin, shattering his jaw. Stepping back, she started to turn when a fist connected with her chin. Melanie stumbled to regain her balance, her face on fire and the salty taste of blood renewed itself.

From the side of her eye Melanie saw the attacker advancing. Pulling her sword from its sheath, she dropped to the ground rolling toward him. Stopping quickly she thrust the sword upward, skewering the mans mid-section. He fell against her knees face surprised and pale. Weakly, he reached for her but his life was flooding out of the wound and puddling on the floor. A steady stream ran down the sword in his stomach.

A noise to the right caused Melanie to turn her head. Her eyes landed on Aven's stiff form a few feet away still in the throws of Hawks' mental assault.

Hatred of Hawks caused her to refocus. Using her legs for leverage she pushed the dying soldier away and let him drop to the floor. As she sat up she saw Xena sprawled on the floor, one of the men approaching her with Aven's staff poised to strike.

Yanking the gun from her waist band she took aim and fired.

Xena rolled over and saw her surprise attacker moving in. She shook her head to clear the stars before her eyes and was about to raise her sword when she heard the shot. The man in front of her froze in place, a large red stain covering his chest. He dropped in place, Aven's staff rolling out of his grasp. With a final look of surprise he met Xena's eyes and then fell still.

Xena flipped from her place on the ground and looked at Melanie. Melanie was pushing herself off the ground and locked eyes with Xena, nodding at the silent thank you she received.

The three remaining soldiers were wary of the women. None were anxious to rush into the awaiting death they were so adequately handing out.

Hawks watched the scene his face grim and angry. He felt the growing pressure of his father exerting itself in his head. Dahoks' rage was growing and Hawks struggled to keep calm. He directed his stare at Barbara who was fidgeting in place, chomping at the bit to join the fight. "Don't disappoint me."

Gracing him with a smile her eyes glowed maniacally, "Never." Screeching in excitement, she rushed from his side aiming straight for Xena.

Gabrielle beat against the force field, desperate to escape and help them. She was unconsciously chewing her lip and stopped when she tasted blood. When Xena had fallen she had felt her heart leap into her throat. She went into a frenzy, almost breaking her arms trying to escape the hellish trap. She calmed when she saw Melanie take action and dispatch the threat. It was the second time the woman had come to her ancestors defense and it was like watching another Xena in action. When her eyes landed on Aven she shuddered. Knowing that the woman, her descendant was again enduring an assault that had almost killed her and she could do nothing to stop it. Movement from the altar caused her to pull her eyes from Aven and watch Castille's advance.

Melanie raised her sword as one of the men charged her. Executing a 360 degree turn, she came back around with enough power to slice him almost completely in half. He staggered back a step, looked down and saw his intestines lying at his feet. Eyes bulging, he sunk to the floor joining them.

Melanie prepared for the other two leaving Xena to handle Barbara.

Xena watched her approach. Head held down with her eyes cut upward, Barbara moved in slowly, twirling her sword and giggling. "We meet again, Xena."

"Joy." Xena sneered.

The giggling stopped as she took a stance. "Where's the Icon?"

Bringing her sword up, Xena smiled, "Come and get it."

Barbara screamed, eerily reminiscent of her ancestor and lunged at Xena. Prepared for the attack Xena side-stepped, letting Barbara's momentum carry her past. Toying with her opponent Xena slapped her sword against the woman's back side as she went by.

Barbara skidded to a stop and jumped around to face Xena. Her face flush with anger. "Bitch." She growled and charged again.

Xena met her sword. The clanging of exchanging sword blows filled the temple like a symphony. Barbara was skilled but her anger made her sloppy. Xena easily blocked her lunges and stabs, taunting her into an almost uncontrollable rage. During her play Xena miscalculated one exchange and Barbara landed the blade against her shoulder, laying it open. She ignored the pain knowing it was a bad gash but not serious and refocused.

The sight of the blood streaming down her adversaries arm excited Barbara and she began fighting harder. Desperately she sought another opening to draw more.

She was so wound up in the moment that she left herself vulnerable as she began bringing the sword down against Xena's over and over. Holding the sword in mid-air ready to bring it down again, she felt a searing pain in her abdomen. Letting her eyes drop she saw Xena's sword protruding from her stomach. Her arms fell to her sides as the realization of her death dawned on her. Her eyes locked on Xena's as the sword was withdrawn. Immediately, she clutched her wound and craned her neck toward the Altar, "David?"

Disgusted, he turned his face away from her and stared at the ground.

She crumpled to the floor. With her dying breath she understood the depth of his deceit and her own stupidity and she laughed.

Xena looked down at the woman as she began her journey to Tartarus. Lingering only a second she cast a quick look across the room and saw that Melanie had taken care of the two remaining soldiers and was now by Aven's side.

Hawks remained at the altar shaking his head in disappointment and mumbling to himself. The two robed men were cowering behind the altar, doing their best not to attract the attention of the Warriors.

Satisfied that the next attack was not forth coming, she moved toward Gabrielle. Determined to break the barrier that held her friend.

"Help Aven." Gabrielle urged as she approached.

Xena complied and changed direction. She reached the spot where Aven lay and kneeled on the other side of her, opposite Melanie. Xena clenched her teeth when she saw the woman's worsening condition. The convulsions had eased but now there was a slow trickle of blood running from her ear. It fed the growing puddle on the stone floor beside her head. The white of her right eye was now a bloody red and a single tear of blood was forming in the corner of her eye. During her lifetime Xena had seen many serious head injuries and she easily recognized it now.

Melanie looked at Xena, pain and pleading reflected in every motion and look. Gritting her teeth to the point of pain Xena could only shake her head helplessly.

Grasping Aven's hand in her own Melanie leaned in closer, "I'm right here." She whispered, hoping that somehow her friend could still understand her.

"Looks like the lights are on but nobodies home." David's voice chided from a few feet away.

It was the last straw for Melanie. She sprinted at Hawks, Tackling him and bringing him to the ground with a loud thud. She landed a couple of punches and was just getting warmed up.

With lightening speed Xena was up and dashing to Melanie's aid. Instead she was the receiver as Melanie came flying backward landing in Xena's arms.

Standing up, Hawks dusted himself off and stood before them confidently. He used his handkerchief to wipe away the single drop of blood that Melanie had managed to draw and stared at it for an instant. "That was a freebie."

Melanie tensed to attack again but Xena held firm watching Hawks warily.

"There is a way you can save her." He responded and began pacing in front of the altar. Sure that he had their attention he continued, "After being with Father for this long, her mind is pretty much oatmeal but there may still be a part of her aware. A part that the love of a friend might be able to reach."

Melanie's eyes followed his movements. Her breath hitched in her chest at the chance to save Aven.

"I need her to start Dahok's new line but other than that, she'll be of no use to me. She'll need a caretaker. A protector. Someone that cares about her. I'll spare your life and allow you to be that person. The question is are you willing to pay the price?"

Melanie looked over her shoulder at Aven and pulled away from Xena. "What price?"

He stopped pacing and smiled, "The Icon of course and--" He leaned closer as if revealing a secret. "Your soul as a welcoming gift for the Dark Lord, Dahok."

Xena watched Melanie carefully as she considered his offer. She was caught off guard when Melanie turned on her. "Where is it?"

"Melanie?"

"Where is it?" She asked more forcefully, taking a step toward her.

Xena kept her eyes level and focused on Melanie's, "This isn't what Aven--"

"Don't you even say her name!" Melanie barked and cut her off. "She is my best friend and she's dying because of you. You and your battle against evil. We were willing to help you but not at the expense of our lives. If she dies, you'll be right behind her."

Pleased that his ploy had worked Hawks stepped away from them, watching the scene unfold with rapt interest.

Xena instinctively gripped her sword, "Melanie, don't do this. There's still a way to solve this."

Melanie had drawn her sword and bared her teeth, "Yeah and if you don't tell me where the Icon is, I'm going to solve it with your blood on my sword." To emphasize the point she poked at Xena with the sword.

Using her own sword Xena fended off the taunting blade, "That's the only way I'll tell you where it is."

"Ghrrah!" Melanie attacked with fury. Xena blocked the blows caught off guard by the woman's ferocity. Melanie's injured leg kept her from launching a full scale attack. But as the two of them fought across the floor she managed to hold her own against the fierce warrior.

The blows began to lack steam as Melanie forced Xena back around and maneuvered her toward the altar. Fatigue and exhaustion from the previous battles were settling in for both women as they stumbled slightly.

Gabrielle watched in horror as they fought. The four of them had been through so much together and now they were bitter enemies. Or so she thought. The closer she watched them, the more she realized that neither woman was taking advantage of openings that exposed them to injury. She was reminded of a ceremonial dance as they circled, moving closer and closer to the altar. The realization of what they were doing hit at the same moment Xena yelled, "Now!"

Melanie dropped to the ground releasing her sword and drawing the Colt from her waistband. Rolling on her side she took aim and fired at the same moment Xena threw the boot dagger for Hawks' heart.

Their temporary elation faded as Hawks caught the blade in his hand and the bullets veered away from the target. One of the stray bullets ricocheted off the distant wall and found a home in one of the cowering robes behind the altar. The other one gasped and ducked lower, trying to become one with the stone.

Xena dropped to a crouch beside Melanie, her mind racing to find another plan of attack. Hawks dropped the dagger and it clattered across the floor, returning to it's thrower. "Excellent try." He complimented, "But alas, play time is over. Now you die."

Melanie couldn't contain the gasp that escaped her lips as Hawks began to change.

He released all control and let Dahok's power flow through him. His entire body on fire as his face began to ripple and change. His eyes sank back, cheek bones protruding forward and his jaws elongated into something like a wolf's muzzle. His body seemed to swell, clothes bursting at the seam and falling away in shreds as his form doubled in size. He cried out weakly as the change overtook him. The cries soon became sounds of ecstacy as he finished the morphing. By the time it was over Xena recognized the strong resemblance he bore to the Destroyer that she had faced in Dahok's temple so many months before.

Melanie on the other hand had only seen something like this on a horror movie and was in shock. "What the hell?" She whispered as her mind scrambled to comprehend what she was seeing.

"Exactly." The Hawks demon replied in a low gravely voice.

Before either women could move or speak they were sent flying across the temple.

"I want the Icon." He stormed as they crashed into the walls of the temple dazed.

Giving neither woman a chance to regroup he threw them across the room repeatedly.

When Melanie hit the wall a third time she struggled to catch her breath. Every fiber of her being screamed in pain. She could tell by the ache in her ribs that they were cracked or broken and her leg was throbbing steadily. Catching a quick glimpse at Xena across the room she could tell that even despite her strength, the Warrior Princess was being worn down and hurting.

Suddenly she felt the invisible force wrapping around her and again she was tossed through the cavern like a child's ragdoll. When she collided with the wall this time she noticed it was softer and seemed to give. It wasn't until she was on the floor and saw Xena lying beside her, that she knew whom not what she had crashed into.

Lying on the cool stone floor her body no longer responded to her commands. She began to realize that she was going to die and there wasn't a damn thing she could do to stop it.

"Where is it?" Hawks voice thundered.

Melanie felt her head swimming and vaguely noticed that the room was getting lighter. 'Passing out' she thought to herself. Although she had always thought that when you passed out everything got dark not light.

"Hawks!" A familiar voice boomed.

Understanding that she was not losing consciousness, she forced her head back and saw Aven standing up, holding a glowing bright object. She thought she was hallucinating until she realized that Hawks had stopped his assault and was staring at the figure across the room. Or more importantly what the figure was holding in her hands.

Aven stood straight and still the glowing Icon tightly clutched in her hands. Her face was pale and the single bloody tear streamed down her face but there was also a peace reflected on her face.

"The Icon." Hawks whispered with pleasure. Raising his voice to a powerful boom, he ordered, "Give it to me."

Aven remained silent and unmoving.

Furious at her refusal he looked down at Xena and Melanie and flicked his wrist toward them. Both women cried out simultaneously as a new pain seized them. Xena tried to steel herself against the crushing pain of her insides being compressed. Unable to catch her breath she felt her consciousness ebbing away.

"Hawks!" Avens voice thundered again. With that warning the pressure disappeared. Xena and Melanie were left gasping for desperately needed air.

Hawks looked at the two women sprawled on the floor and then unsurely at Aven.

Holding the glowing Icon a few inches in front of her, Aven began advancing toward the altar and him. Her steps were slow, strong and sure. And with each one the Icon grew brighter and surrounded her in a brilliant shimmer of light.

As she passed Xena and Melanie she stopped between them. The light seemed to pulse and they felt the pain and aches from the fight and Hawks assault fading. Aven closed her eyes as the light that was encasing her seemed to draw the pain away from them.

She continued her path to the altar as Gabrielle suddenly appeared beside her injured friends, "Xena? Melanie? Are you okay?"

Realizing that Gabrielle was free of the invisible cage Xena tried to sit up, "How did you--?"

Gabrielle simply pointed at Aven as she neared Hawks.

Slowly rising to her feet, Melanie moved toward Aven but felt two sets of restraining hands.

"Give me the power!" Hawks demanded again, his voice not as sure as before.

When Aven spoke her voice echoed as the voices of a thousand years joined as one. "It is not mine to give. It chooses us and if we are very lucky works through us. A power such as this cannot be harnessed and controlled. It must be received and allowed to grow, flourish."

Hawks ire was replaced by something else as Aven started her final approach for him. Fear.

"What's happening?" Melanie asked in a hushed voice.

"The final battle in this war." Xena answered.

"We've got to help Aven. She's too weak to fight him alone." Gabrielle urged.

Firmly Xena said, "No." Seeing their reaction she added, "She's not alone."

Not satisfied with that, Melanie pushed, "So what do we do?"

Xena met her eyes, "Learn."

Aven began ascending the stone steps of the altar and with every step, Hawks moved back. He stopped when he bumped into the altar. Unless he retreated and jumped over it he had nowhere else to go.

Mustering his courage Hawks threw his chest out, "I am David Hawks. Descendant and son of the Dark One, Dahok. My fathers kingdom will rise and cleanse the land with blood and we will destroy all those who oppose him." He pointed a long crooked claw at Aven, "You, mortal, are not worthy of the wielding the power he wants. I command you to give it to me. Now!"

Aven looked at him with pity. Her head held slightly sideways she studied him. Then she raised the Icon and held it out in front of her, "If the power chooses you, I cannot refuse."

Taking that as a yes Hawks stepped forward. He reached out and wrapped his hands around hers on the Icon.

A blinding flash washed across the room forcing Gabrielle, Xena and Melanie to shield their eyes and back away from the altar.

The light that encompassed the Icon and Aven now wrapped around Hawks and he smiled as the power washed over him. Opening his mouth he groaned in pleasure. Then his face contorted and he let out a long painful wail as the Icon's magic settled in to stay.

The three women cautiously uncovered their eyes. The scene on the altar drew their undivided attention.

Hawks was beginning to tremble violently his normal appearance reasserting itself. Aven stood opposite him. His shaking caused her to tremble slightly but her face was calm as she watched his every move.

A gust of wind suddenly whipped through the temple and one of the walls of the room began to shimmer as a blue swirl appeared.

"The portal!" Gabrielle said with enthusiasm, "Our way home."

The three women unconsciously moved closer but stopped when they felt the pull of the force within it. A robed blur shot past them diving into the vortex.

"The virus!" Melanie yelled above the roar as he vanished in the blue swirls. She took a step forward but Xena grabbed her arm and pulled her back. "That's our job." Then she proceeded to the vortex, but stopped and looked back at the altar.

Sensing hesitation, Aven turned and met Xena's eyes, "Go." Xena sensed a peace in those eyes that washed over her soul. A peace she long craved. Aven broke the connection and resumed her watch of Hawks.

"We can't leave. Not like this." Gabrielle argued.

Melanie grabbed Gabrielle's hand, "You have to. This is what everything has been for. You have to stop the guy with the virus. We'll finish up here."

Xena was just as reluctant to leave but knew Melanie was right. Placing her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder she nodded, "We have to go."

The time had come. They knew it would but were still not prepared to leave. This new world was so frightening and yet so exhilarating. It was a nice place to visit but both women wanted to go home to their own world and time. The only thing they regretted leaving were their new friends. their new family. So many emotions and unspoken thoughts still lingered. As the vortex continued to pulse Xena could only sum up everything with, "Thank you."

Feeling the same jumble of emotions, Melanie returned, "Thank you."

Gabrielle gave her descendant a final look. Then she turned to Melanie, bestowing a hug on her for both of them. "She'll be okay." She whispered in Melanie's ear, trying to convince them both.

Pulling away Xena moved in, her hand extended to Melanie's. Melanie reached out and instead of a normal handshake, was introduced to the warrior's handshake as Xena grabbed her arm above the wrist.

Repeating the action, Melanie grasped Xena's arm "Take care." Xena said lowly.

Melanie smiled, "You too."

The handshake broken, Xena firmly grasped Gabrielle's arm. The two of them dashed for the vortex.

Melanie watched them vanish into the fierce blue swirl. Just as suddenly as it had appeared, the portal vanished, a final gust of wind, the last goodbye. Sighing, Melanie turned and rushed back to the altar.

The scene had not changed save for Hawks steadily deteriorating state. Unsure of what to do to help, Melanie moved closer to the two of them. Her feet skidded to a stop when she heard a voice say, "The sword."

Scanning the cavern she saw no one there that could have said it. Again she heard, "Pick up the sword."

A familiar voice. Startled, she recognized it was Aven's voice she was hearing in her mind. Locating the sword, she retrieved it from the floor and headed to the altar.

Upon closer inspection Melanie could see Hawks was in obvious distress. Dahok had deserted his servant, leaving the man to suffer his punishment alone and unprotected. It was only then that she realized that Xena and Gabrielle had gone back without the Icon. Her mind raced at the implications but was distracted as she heard one word strongly reverberating in her mind, "Now!"

Understanding dawned almost the instant she heard the word. Firmly grasping the sword she took position behind Hawks. Focusing her rage and the deep hatred she had for the man before her, she took a deep breath and raised the sword. It's tip aimed between his shoulder blades.

Aven's voice was softer as she repeated, "Now."

Not wasting another precious second Melanie thrust the sword forward, piercing the tattered remains of the shirt and the flesh underneath. Caught up in her retribution and savoring the feel of the blade going in she didn't stop until only three inches of the blade remained visible. The rest now resided in Hawks chest.

Hawks jerked and spasmed as the remainder of his life force was drained into the light. The glow surrounding him began to fade. With a last gasping wheeze he dropped to the floor dead.

Aven stood in place. The glow that surrounded her dissipating quickly. When the Icon returned to normal Melanie was there to catch her as she collapsed. Cradling her unconscious friend she noticed one of Hawks hands draped across Aven's ankle. Angrily, she kicked it away.

Turning her attention back to Aven she noticed a growing bloody spot on Aven's shirt, just below the neckline. Gently pulling back the soaked material, she peered under and was horrified to see the stab wound.

Glancing at the sword protruding from Hawks' chest, she realized that in her anger she had pushed the sword too far and stabbed Aven as well.

With a shaky hand she brushed Aven's face, the young womans skin rapidly cooling, "I'm sorry." As Aven's breathing became shallow she held her friend tighter, pulling her closer. "Don't you leave me." She begged as she felt tears stinging her eyes, "You hear me Aven Gabriel! Don't you dare leave me!"

Aven gasped deeply and fell still.

"No!" Melanie ordered, unwilling to accept this kind of defeat, "Don't give up. Not after all we've been through." Melanie began rocking Aven, cradling her in a fierce embrace. Looking up at the ceiling of the cavern, she prayed, "Please." So intent on her prayers, she was completely oblivious to the flicker of light from the Icon clutched tightly in Aven's small hands.

Cool fingers softly touching her hand startled her out of her trance. Almost as much as looking down and seeing Aven open her eyes. "Hi." She whispered and tried to offer a lopsided smile.

Melanie stared down at the pale face of her best friend, her mouth gaping. "Hi yourself." She mumbled in disbelief.

"I'm kinda tired. Could we go home now?"

Relief flooded through Melanie, merging with the already present concern. She could no longer stifle the tears or the chuckle that escaped her as she smoothed Aven's hair. "You bet. Hon. I'm a little whipped myself."

8.

Unfortunately, Xena and Gabrielle's second landing was as bumpy as the first. Spewed out of the vortex, they tumbled across the grassy field, finally rolling to a stop tangled together like a puzzle.

Quickly distangleing herself from the little bard, Xena jumped to her feet and scanned the area. They were in a large, rolling green field. Wild flowers colored the hillside and she spotted what looked like a dirt road in the distance.

"Are we home?" Gabrielle questioned as she sat up and joined Xena in the looksy.

Xena was trying to spot the robed man that had proceeded them but saw no sign of him. "I don't know." She answered and extended her hand to Gabrielle.

Taking the offered hand, Gabrielle pulled herself up. "Do you see Dahok's guy?"

"No." She grunted in frustration. Then jerked her head to the left toward a steep hill. "Lets go." She called as she broke into a sprint.

They crested the hill, Gabrielle a few steps behind. Xena smiled as she saw what lay below and beyond.

Mount Olympus filled the horizon and in the valley the battle was drawing to a close. Dahok's followers were making a hasty retreat into the surrounding forest, the Olympus warriors pursing. "Home." Gabrielle sighed wistfully.

Desperately, Xena tried to locate the virus carrier but the robes Dahok's people wore were so similar, it was impossible. "He got away." She stated, defeat leaving an unpleasant taste in her mouth.

"Xena? Gabrielle?" A man's voice called from the distance.

They spotted Iolaus running toward them from what remained of the village and dashed down the hill to meet him.

He was tired, sweaty, dirty and covered with blood. His smile was radiant and glowed with relief as they came together, "Thank the Gods. Are you two okay?"

Their own appearance mirrored his as both returned his warm smile, "Fine." Xena answered steadily.

"I got worried when you jumped into the vortex." He explained, "I tried to follow you but it closed before I could reach it. You've missed the whole battle. All three days."

Xena frowned, "Three days." Then her mind turned elsewhere, "Is Hercules alright?"

Iolaus nodded, "Yes. He's helping some villagers. What happened to the two of you? You look like you've been through a battle of your own."

"Long story." Xena sighed, "I'm sure Gabrielle will fill you in later. Right now we need to worry about Dahok."

"Nothing to worry about." He replied, resting his hands on his hips, "He's gone and his people are retreating." Seeing their surprised expression, he added, "Looks like we'll both have a good camp fire story later. Right now though, there are a lot of injured people that could use both of your skills."

Both women were exhausted, aching and curious about the outcome of the battle they had just left but without hesitation they followed Iolaus and began tending to the injured.

Well into the night they ministered to the villagers and warriors alike. As Xena was bandaging one child's broken arm, she asked Gabrielle for another strip of cloth. When she received no response she cut her eyes to the side and saw the young woman had fallen asleep sitting up. She finished splinting the child's arm and then eased Gabrielle to the ground, the young woman never waking or stirring.

Moving on to the other injured she finished up a few hours before dawn. It was only then that she allowed Iolaus to stitch her own wounded shoulder. When he was done, she returned to where Gabrielle was still sleeping and joined her in a nap.

After resting and getting cleaned up, Iolaus filled them in on the events of the battle after their departure. The fighting had raged on day and night, the battle swinging back and forth. Hope had disappeared shortly after the vortex did but the robed followers continued to appear, fueled by the light show atop Mount Olympus. Shortly before Xena and Gabrielle had appeared a thunderous wail had sliced through the air from the Mountain top. Flashes of light and a huge black cloud had engulfed the Home of the Gods. The sky itself seemed to glow as a mysterious light wrapped around the dark cloud. Suddenly, Dahok's people had stopped fighting and all eyes turned to the mountain watching the turmoil between the cloud and bright light. Another painful wail pierced the air and then there was a final earth shattering boom. The black cloud seemed to slink away and seep into the mountain, like a wounded animal seeking escape. It was then that the followers began their retreat, confusion and fear etched on their faces.

Ironically, the only two people who understood what had happened were now getting the other side of the story from Iolaus. His news confirmed to Xena and Gabrielle that Dahok had been defeated as Aven's history books had foretold. Both women were surprised they had not been more involved especially after what they had just been through. But neither complained or questioned the end result and the forces surrounding them.

When Iolaus finished, Gabrielle began relating the events of their adventure. Her story telling skills were at their usual peak but there was an underlying current of regret and sadness. It was something that haunted both of them as the story was relived. Xena couldn't shake the feeling that she had deserted Melanie and Aven and left them to battle Dahok's evil alone. He had been defeated here in their time but not knowing the outcome in the future nagged at her like a painful never healing wound.

It still bothered her the following night as she sat down by the camp fire. They had put a good days distance between them and the battlefield around Olympus. Her mind drifted over the contents of the scroll they had found with the Icon and she unconsciously shuddered.

They had eaten a light meal, both unusually silent and now faced one another over the campfire. Xena poked at the fire with a tree limb, unable to remain quiet any longer, "I wonder if they made it? If Aven is...?" She fell silent again. It angered her to contemplate Gabrielle's descendant, a young woman she considered a friend, dead.

Keeping her eyes on the fire Gabrielle answered, "They're both fine."

"You had a dream?" Xena asked hopefully.

Gabrielle shook her head, "No. It's just a feeling." Tearing her eyes from the fire, she met Xena's questioning gaze, "We're connected. You to Melanie and me to Aven. I just know I would feel it if she died. If she was gone."

Rising to her feet, Gabrielle moved around the fire and plunked down beside Xena, "The Icon gave her the power and strength to fight Hawks. It was like John said, the Icon chose the warrior it needed. It had enough power to free me and take your pain and injuries away. Surely it could have healed and saved Aven as well."

Forever optimistic, Xena smiled at Gabrielle and considered what she had said. She had been been tossed around by Hawks until she could no longer feel her body. Agony had consumed her battered body but all the pain had vanished when Aven stood beside her. She had seen Aven's injury up close and known that she was dying. When they had collided before and Xena had slipped the Icon into Aven's shirt pocket, she had thought it was the safest place. She wasn't sure why she had done it, only that she had an overpowering urge to make sure the woman held it in her possession.

It was an urge she was sure had been a mistake when the woman lay dying in the temple. Yet she had not been able to convince herself to retrieve it. Aven's words echoed in her head, 'the power chooses us. Works through us.'

There was little doubt of that. Aven had gotten up and faced Hawks, when only moments before she had been barely breathing. She couldn't suppress the shiver that crept over her, "You may be right." She finally conceded.

Gabrielle scooted closer, draping part of her blanket around Xena's shoulders, "I guess we'll know soon enough." Gabrielle decided after a minute.

They sat together, silent and contemplating the power they had witnessed. Sneaking a look at the Warrior, Gabrielle noticed her frowning, "What's wrong?"

"I miss coffee." She answered wistfully.

OUR TIME- TWO DAYS LATER

Melanie sat at the kitchen table nursing a steaming cup of coffee. Early morning sun cascaded through the windows, making the kitchen bright and inviting. She was still a little sore from the fighting in the temple. Her leg offered the occasional ache but thanks to the Icon she was in much better shape than she should be.

The stillness of the desert was both comforting and eery. Deep in thought, she jumped when Janice and Pappy entered the room.

"Finished." Pappy smiled brightly and took a seat at the table, laying a legal pad in front of her.

Janice poured two more cups of coffee and joined them placing one of the cups in front of Pappy. "It wasn't easy." Pappy continued, "I had to dig out some really old text to get all the ancient letters accurately."

"So what does it say?" A soft voice interrupted from behind them.

Melanie raised her eyes as Janice and Pappy turned.

Aven stood in the doorway. Pale and small, she was snugly wrapped in one of Janice's old housecoats. Her right eye had faded to a dull pink and she looked unsteady as she leaned against the doorframe.

"What are you doing up?!" Melanie barked and jumped to her feet. The movement sent a jolt of pain through her calf before she rushed to the doorway.

"I'm okay." Aven replied and gently waved her friend back.

"No you are not." Melanie argued, "You need to rest. You are not completely out of the woods yet."

"She's right." Janice agreed joining Melanie. "You need to take your time. Get plenty of rest and recover fully."

"That's all I've been doing the last two days." Aven sighed, "I just want to move around a bit. I'm bored."

Pappy grinned. "She's your granddaughter alright." Pulling out a chair she held her hand out. "Take a load off."

"Bored." Melanie muttered under her breath as she steadied Aven over to the chair. "Bored. After everything that's happened, you're bored."

Aven eased into the chair, Melanie hovering close by until Janice waved her away, "Sit down, Mel. She's not going to break."

Like a scolded child, she walked around the table. Her limp was a little more pronounced and plopped down in the chair across from them.

"She's a Covington--" Janice began as she sat down beside her granddaughter.

"--And Covingtons are tough." Melanie, Pappy and Aven said in unison with Janice.

A ripple of laughter cut through the tension. The first laugh from any of them in two days.

"You were saying, Pappy?" Aven prodded.

After the battle and Aven's awakening, Melanie had mustered strength she never knew she had and lifted Aven off the floor. She stopped a few feet from the altar, unsure of what doorway would lead back to the top. In an answer to her unspoken question stone slabs slid into place, sealing off all the doorways but one. "Thanks." She murmured to the unseen power that seemed to be helping them and moved to the door.

"Backpack." Aven whispered, barely conscious.

Melanie lowered her head close to Aven, "What?"

"My backpack. Important."

She was in a hurry to get her friend to medical help but she couldn't refuse her request. Scouring the temple, she spotted it beside the open doorway. Careful not to spill her cargo into the floor, Melanie squatted and with two fingers, latched onto the straps of the backpack. Tightly curling her fingers she had it in a steel grip. Then she noticed Aven sleeping again, the Icon still firmly in her grasp. Looking down at the golden object seemed to energize her. Clutching Aven tighter, she moved through the doorway.

She walked down a short hallway and found a stairway going up. One that led her straight back to the entrance of the cave. In a matter of minutes she had Aven and the backpack loaded in the Bronco and was flooring the accelerator to the Indian village where Janice and Pappy waited.

Waiting they were as she screeched to a stop in the center of the village. A cloud of dust continued on after she had stopped.

Jumping out of the Bronco, she began asking for a phone to call for medical help. The grandmothers informed her that the best doctor for fifty miles was already here, much to her relief.

That relief dissipated when she saw the old man approaching the Bronco. He looked at least eighty, hunched over slightly with deep brown skin and long snow white hair. He was remarkably agile and quick for his age as he scooted into the rear of the Bronco. Janice was right behind him.

Melanie took a few steps toward the Bronco, ready to protest when Pappy intercepted her. "He knows what he's doing." She assured her granddaughter, her blue eyes reflecting confidence and sympathy. Looking down she saw the bloody bandage on Melanie's leg, "You need medical attention too."

"I'm fine. Just take care of Aven." Melanie dismissed as she watched the old man motion for two of the younger men. Aven was gently lifted out of the Bronco and carried to the healers hut. Suddenly Melanie was swept off her feet. Glaring, she looked up and found herself in John's remarkably strong arms. "You need to get that leg taken care of." He said firmly, leaving no room for argument.

Surrendering, she allowed him to carry her into the hut with Aven.

Indeed the healer did know what he was doing. He stabilized Aven and bandaged Melanie's leg with the skill of a surgeon. He marveled at the condition they were in saying that for what they had been through they should have been dead. Melanie smiled knowingly at him and glanced at the Icon still in Aven's possession, John never leaving it or her.

The Icons' healing power along with the Medicine mans' skill made it possible for them to return to the ranch the next afternoon.

It wasn't until they had Aven settled in the guest bedroom, that Melanie had gone through the backpack and found the scroll. The grandmothers had been filled in on the events at the cavern. When Pappy began to decipher the scroll she knew what era to begin in.

Now it was time for the mystery to end. Pappy picked up the tablet, "Except for a word or two, I think it's accurate." She smiled at them and began reading, "Dearest friends. I address this to both of you because in my heart I know Aven survived. Xena and I both regret that we could not stay and help you. But we also realize that each generation must face their own battles. Alone. We have been through a lot together and I wish we could have had more time. Without you we could have never accomplished our mission. Although we failed to stop the man with the virus Dahok was defeated in this time."

Melanie and Aven exchanged worried looks. Pappy looked at both of them, "The history books show that their was an outbreak of Anthrax in Ancient Greece. Even before those two showed up that part of history was set. There was no way you could have stopped it. It was destined to happen and now we know how it really started." Taking a deep breath she continued, "You are probably concerned because we did not go back with the Icon. It seemed to be the prize of the contest and it was but it was needed in your time. Now it is needed in ours. After everything you've done I hesitate to ask you to do one more thing for us. Aven said the Icon was found in Ancient Greece. You must take it there for the cycle to begin again."

Melanie sat back in shock, "We're going to Greece?"

"Ancient Greece." Aven corrected.

"There's a map here," Janice took over, "and a few instructions. Of course it will be a little while before either of you are ready to travel but all the details are here."

Melanie leaned forward propping her arms on the table. "Am I to understand that this is like some kind of cosmic, pre-ordained time loop thing?"

Pappy and Janice nodded yes.

"Cool!"

Aven smiled. Melanie was already set for the next adventure. When she put her mind to it, Melanie could become a sheer force of will and it was contagious. "Pappy, is there any way we could dictate a message to you and translate it back to their language?"

Pappy mulled it over before responding. "It may take me awhile and will have to be short but I've already got a heard start on the language. Yes, I can do it."

"Hold it young lady." Janice addressed sternly, "It will be at least two weeks before either one of you are able to travel."

Melanie opened her mouth to protest but Janice shushed her, "Don't argue with your elders. Pappy and I are familiar with Greece. We've been on digs there and we can help plan your trip."

Aven listened, quietly toying with the chain of the Icon. She kept it close to her at all times, appointing herself its protector until returned to its rightful holder. Glancing up, she caught Melanie staring at the bandage on her chest. Melanie's sword had gone in deeply coming very close to the heart. In its wake was left a jagged four inch gapping hole. The healer had told her that had the sword gone deeper or any lower it would have been fatal. Melanie had overheard the conversation and her guilt over the injury had magnified. Aven tried to ease her friends conscience but Melanie would have none of it. She scolded herself for losing control and using her anger in the situation instead of her head. Aven repeatedly pointed out that had she not killed Hawks when she did, they both would have died, Melanie held onto the guilt.

Realizing that she had been caught staring, Melanie blushed and pulled her eyes away looking down at the table.

"Two weeks, huh?" Aven smiled, "We better get planning. We've got two thousand years to cover. Right Mel?"

Melanie slowly looked up, the smile returning, "Count me in."

Xena had committed the map on the scroll to memory. As was the life of a hero, there had been Warlords to defeat, villagers to save and royalty to rescue. It was a little over a month before she and Gabrielle finally reached the caverns of Artemis.

Located on the steepest, rockiest side of a small mountain, only the most determined and skilled climbers could reach the haunted cavern at the top.

Legends said that the bravest, most loyal Amazon warriors who crossed in a noble battle were chosen to guard the birthplace of Artemis. Hades had agreed to the arrangement since there would be so few souls who would meet the requirements. The simple fact that Amazons in the Elysian fields could sometimes be destructive helped him make the decision. In truth he respected his sister, who was one of the few Gods that treated him as an equal, not just a powerful undertaker.

Spirits of the chosen warriors inhabited the caverns, driving off any who sought the rumored treasures hidden there or who wanted to desecrate the holy place. It was a most fitting place for the Icon and a place that as Amazon Queen, Gabrielle was welcome.

The climb was slow and arduous especially for a skilled climber like Xena. She took extra care because Gabrielle, although no novice was by no means an expert on these kinds of cliffs.

The cliff faced to the west so they had begun the climb just after dawn, hoping to reach the cavern before the sun beat down on them. They accomplished this shortly after noon. Entering the cool, dark cavern, both women were tired but the sense of curiosity was overpowering. Stopping long enough to catch their breath and quench their thirst, they began down the torch lit passageway. The walls were decorated with the tale of Artemis' birth and battles. Normally Gabrielle would have stopped and studied the murals with rapt interest but she was anxious to reach the main chamber.

Gabrielle was determined but she was no fool. Knowing that the legends of the ghost warriors and the climb wouldn't deter the most determined thief, she let Xena lead the way to search out any booby traps. Indeed they did encounter several similar to those in the temple cavern but with Xena, she of many skills, they finally made their way to the main chamber.

They couldn't mask their surprise as they entered the chamber.

The dark, dank hallway opened into a garden. Sunlight poured through a gaping hole in the roof of the chamber, lighting the room and nurturing a lush growth of greenery. A steady stream of water flowed down the cave wall and gathered into a small wading pool nestled beside a stone Throne.

Gabrielle's voice was barely above a whisper, "By the Gods, Xena. It's beautiful."

"She is the Goddess of the hunt and forest." Xena agreed. Searching the area, Xena's eyes landed on a large rock settled by the pool, "There!" She pointed.

Gabrielle practically leapt to the pool, Xena close behind. Reaching the rock, she kneeled beside it. She started to reach into the crevice beside the rock and hesitated.

Xena knew why she hesitated. There were so many factors that had to occur to ensure the success of the mission and so many questions. Had Aven and Melanie defeated the evil and survived? Where they able to retrieve the scroll and could they decipher it? Would they again risk their lives?

Gabrielle felt Xena's strong, reassuring hand on her shoulder and bent down sticking her hand into the rabbit hole. She frowned as she reached further in, almost up to the shoulder and still found nothing.

Anxiously, Xena watched her friends frantic search. Then Gabrielle stopped. A smile spreading across her face. Slowly, Gabrielle pulled her arm back but stopped when the box became wedged in the opening. Impatiently, Gabrielle began yanking on the box, trying to dislodge it. Xena reached around her and placed her hand on top of Gabrielle's. Pushing the box back in a little, Xena turned Gabrielle's hand ever so slightly and this time they pulled the box out effortlessly.

"Thanks." Gabrielle said sheepishly and ran her hands over the long metal chest. Changing from the kneeling position to a sitting one, she balanced the box across her legs.

Xena took a place beside her, seeing the box having an almost dreamlike quality. Knowing that her descendant and hopefully Gabrielle's had used the Icon to open a portal. Then travel two thousand years in the past to deliver the Icon to them, it seemed like one of Gabrielle's tales. "Well open it." Xena said and nudged her shoulder.

Gabrielle obeyed, prying the lid off and revealing a cloth. As before she pulled back the layers and found a dagger, the same dagger she had admired in Rams' truck so long ago. Holding the dagger tightly she looked to Xena, tears in her eyes, "Aven made it! She was the only one who knew I had my eye on this."

Xena smiled warmly, relief flooding through her. Suddenly she caught a whiff of something in the air or more precisely, coming from the box. Reaching for the cloth she pulled back another corner and found a blue brick sized bag. Picking it up, she brought it to her face and inhaled deeply. "Coffee!" She exhaled, "They both made it."

Gabrielle pulled back the final flap of cloth and found a smaller metal box. Lying the dagger beside her, she opened the lid. The Icon had been cleaned and polished. It glowed so brightly they had to squint out the glare.

"A scroll." Xena commented as Gabrielle stared at the Icon. Tearing her eyes away, she too saw the scroll lying in the bottom of the box.

Xena deftly plucked it out as Gabrielle returned the Icon to its metal home. "You do the honors." Xena replied as she held out the scroll .

Like a child with a new toy Gabrielle took it and quickly opened it. As she scanned the writing, her hand flew to her mouth and the tears flowed freely.

Misinterpreting her actions, Xena leaned in closer, brows furrowed with worry, "What is it? What does it say?"

Realizing Xena's concern, Gabrielle pulled her hand away and smiled. Then began reading aloud, "It says, 'Our war was won. We are both older, wiser and alive. We proudly swear to carry on the work you began and hope to continue the fine heritage we were given. You showed us the way and we shall follow. You have our love and appreciation and will never be far from our thoughts.' It's signed A and M."

The message touched them both. Gabrielle wept tears of joy and although Xena's eyes were trying to tear up, she quickly rubbed the tears away. Clutching the coffee in her hand, Xena visualized Melanie and Aven continuing the battle for the greater good. With that image she felt pride swelling in her heart.

9.

TEN YEARS LATER- OUR TIME.

Dawn broke over the Faire' grounds. The sun quickly burned away the shroud of mist that hung over the fields. Activity began shortly thereafter. The New Greece Renaissance Faire' had come into existence six years earlier, the dream of Aven Gabriel and Melanie Prince. With hard work and dedication it had quickly become one of the most popular and successful Faire's on the West Coast.

The women were equal partners and believed in a hands on attitude in running the Faire'. They had a few trusted employees that could step in when needed but they were greedy about sharing the duties they loved so much.

The owners insisted on realism for the Faire'. The workers assumed they had spent a lot of time researching Ancient History. Only the two of them knew about the two weeks they had spent traveling in Ancient Greece almost ten years earlier. It had been a true learning experience and because of their need for authenticity it had made the Faire' even more popular on the circuit.

Tents and campers dotted the landscape several hundred yards from the Faire' grounds. The temporary homes of the workers. Two large tents were set away from the others. Outside the farthest, two children played and a solitary figure watched over them.

The children, little girls, were about seven years old and looked very much like their mothers. Brianne was the tallest, most outgoing. She was lean, with flowing black hair and piercing blue eyes. She had her mothers fiery personality and despite typical childrens' arguments, was fiercely protective of her companion. Renee', the other child was shorter and smaller but just as robust as her friend. Her blond hair shone in the early morning light and her grey green eyes twinkled with health and mischief.

Bleary eyed, Melanie emerged from her tent the ever present cup of coffee in her hand. Normally she was an early riser. However Ram had stopped by the night before and it had been a late night. They had tried again at a relationship but neither was ready to settle down. They continued as an on again off again couple. The result of one such foray was their daughter Brianne. They stayed close for her sake, though it wasn't a conventional relationship, Lucy never wanted for attention from either parent. Ram was a wonderful father and now their bond was even deeper.

Quietly, Melanie watched Aven as she watched the children. Her face was calm and looked very childlike as she observed them play. The young woman had endured so much, even after Hawks. Luckily she had no memory of the temple after Hawks initially attacked her. The only thing she remembered was waking up cradled in Melanie's arms afterward. Physically, she had fully recovered. Mentally she occasionally had lapses of memory loss and when particularly stressed lapsed into spells of catatonia. These spells only lasted a few minutes and were rare, but it was a scar that Hawks had left on her that even the Icon couldn't repair.

About the time that Melanie and Ram had gotten together again, Aven had met someone. Reluctant and untrusting, she had been in no hurry to get into another relationship. But Peter had been a patient and gentle soul. He had attended the Faire' regularly and was a proficient archer. He had taken an interest in Aven instantly and sensing her hesitation had sought out help from others. Melanie was extemely protective of her friend but she had sensed Peter's good heart and agreed to help him get acquainted with Aven. They had suddenly been paired up in competitions and he had been invited to dinner at Melanie's on many occasions. Despite Aven's complaints of Melanie fostering the relationship, she had begun to fall for the handsome young teacher. No one was more thrilled than Melanie when Aven accepted his marriage proposal.

Both women found out they were pregnant within a month of one another and eight months later, delivered their daughters within hours of one another. They both had men they loved and children and life seemed idyllic.

The happiness was shattered four months after the girls birth. Peter, Aven's beloved husband had been caught in a gang cross fire outside of his school and had been killed. Aven handled it better than expected, focusing all her attention on Renee' and Brianne. Melanie, as always was nearby if needed.

Shaking off the sad memories, Melanie realized the girls had stopped playing and were huddling around Aven, who was spinning one of her tales.

Easing quietly behind them, Melanie was in time to catch the very end of the story. "...and evil was defeated. The two warriors were wounded but still alive, ready to take on the next evil force that reared its ugly head."

Brianne moved closer to Aven pointing to the scar on her chest. "That's the place?"

"Yes." Aven smiled, "That's where your mother saved my life. She was very brave that day."

Brianne sat back proudly, "Cool!"

Aven couldn't contain the laughter at hearing the familiar expression coming from the smaller version.

"Girls?" Melanie interrupted, "Get cleaned up for breakfast."

"Just one more story, Aunt Mel. Please?" Renee' begged with her best 'can't resist me' smile.

Melanie almost caved but stood up straight, "Move it girls."

Sulking for the adults benefit, both girls obeyed and vanished into the tent. A few seconds later a soft giggling emerged from the tent.

"Morning." Aven greeted.

"Morning." Melanie answered taking a seat beside her. Offering her coffee cup, Aven accepted, took a quick drink and handed it back.

"Late night?" Aven smiled.

Melanie dropped her shoulders. "Yeah. I really did mean to come and get the girls but-- well you know."

Aven snickered, "I heard."

The blush on Melanie's cheeks brightened, "Sorry. Did we keep you awake?"

Aven shook her head, "No."

"Did the girls behave?"

"As always."

Melanie noticed the reflective posture Aven had assumed and recognized it, "You had a dream, didn't you?"

Aven's smiled broadened, "Yes. I saw the second generation."

"Cool." Melanie grinned and leaned back in her chair.

The sound of the children's laughter flowed out of the tent, causing a sense of melancholy to settle over Melanie. Sensing the change, Aven turned in her chair and watched Melanie for a minute.

"I worry, Aven." Melanie began, "About Brianne and Renee'. The two of them going through something like we did. I know about our destiny and all that but they're our kids. I don't like to think of them facing something like Hawks. Does it bother you?"

Aven considered the question for several minutes before answering. "I wonder if our mothers thought and felt the same way." Aven began, and met Melanie's eyes, "I know that I will do everything in my power to ensure that she is a good person. That she's prepared for anything that may come up. When she's old enough I will tell her the family history and our part in it, just as you will tell Brianne. We will both do all we can. It's not the best or easiest answer but it's all I've got. I'm certain they'll be fine for two simple reasons."

Melanie leaned forward, anxious to hear the rest of Aven's thoughts, "Which are?"

"They have one another and they will have faith."

Melanie took Aven's hand and lightly squeezed it. "Yeah. Just like us and those before us."

"Yep." Aven returned the squeeze, "That's the best legacy we can give them."

"Mommm?" A childs voice called, "We're starving."

"The little warriors call." Melanie sighed and stood up. Aven arose and together they went to care for the next generation.

The End

A.M.