Xena, warrior princess … I must have read a hundred stories about her. Whether or not all of them are true is another case. I met her a few times, actually, a long time ago, she saved my live more ways than you can imagine. But now you must be wondering who I am anyway. Well, my name is Niké, named after the Goddess of victory. Can't really say where I am from, I lived with the Amazons most of my life but I was born the daughter of a warlord. And yes, you guessed it right, I followed in his footsteps. This story is about my life. Don't really know why I am writing it down, I'm nothing special. And I sure am no bard! But yesterday, as I watched my grandchildren play in the sun, I started to think. They deserved to know where I came from, how I ended up here and all other things. Besides, by writing this I honour the memory of those not here anymore. Like Xena herself. Word has it that she died in Japa, a land more East than Chin. Her companion, the noble bard and Queen of the amazons, Gabrielle, survived but never returned. Last I heard, she was headed towards Egypt. But anyway, let's get this show on the road.


I stumbled along a quiet path. My horse had died from its injuries a long way behind me. Blood seeped from a wound in my side, leaving a trail. I had to hurry and find my army. We fought bravely against three Roman legions but were outnumbered almost four to one. I saw many of my warriors die before I called the retreat and in the confusion, I was separated from my comrades.

*Why was I so stupid?? Going up against Rome.* I berated myself and in doing so, I didn't see the tree root before my feet. I hit the ground hard, on my side, and groaned in pain.

"What do we have here?" a booming voice said above me. I struggled painfully to my feet. Six thugs surrounded me.

"What do ya think boys … a little fun for tonight?" The men laughed, I rolled my eyes. If I was in a better shape they would die just for saying that. I grabbed my side and drew my sword with my free hand. "I'll give you one chance to go and leave me alone." I said in my, hopefully, most threatening voice. They only laughed harder and I sighed.

"No woman tells me what to do." Their leader said and signalled two of his men to grab me.

In one quick move that hurt me like a bitch, I sliced one man's throat and stuck my sword in the other's chest. I sunk to one knee, not having enough energy to pull my sword out of the corpses.

The others watched in horror and shock. It was seconds before they started to move again. "Kill her!!!" the leader said and the four remaining men pounced on me. I thought that I was finished then and I closed my eyes, waiting for death's touch. It never came. I heard a whistling sound, like when an arrow is released from it's bow, but different. I opened my eyes and saw the weirdest thing. It was round, metallic and embedded in one man's chest. I lifted my head upon hearing some sort of yell, a battle scream like I've never heard before, and that was the first time I saw her. Long black hair, dark leathers and a very deadly sword. For some reason everything started to go in slow-motion; and it soon dawned on me that it was because I was losing too much blood. Maybe that was why I only noticed the other one so late. She was much shorter and fair haired; this other woman showed off some mean battle staff moves. The fight was over quickly, though it seemed much longer to me. I felt a strong hand on my shoulder and then nothing but darkness.

It was already dark when I came to. I slowly opened my eyes and saw the stars up in the sky. A soft snoring came to my ears next to me and I slowly turned my head. By the light of the campfire I could see a tousled blond head peeking out from beneath the furs. I think I stared for long minutes, stopping when I heard a cough from over the fire. I gasped aloud. Two ice blue eyes watched me with a look that could melt steel. The woman they belonged too got up and stepped my way. I could see her now in the light of the fire. By the gods, she was beautiful … and tall. I was over six feet and never met another woman who could rival me in that department. This woman could.

"The name's Xena … and that is Gabrielle." She said in a deep rich voice. I could only stare. Xena grabbed a water bag and walked over to me. She kneeled and lifted my head, allowing me to take a sip from the refreshing water and soothing my sore throat. "I-I am Niké." I managed to get out. This was Xena! The Xena!

Xena nodded. "You carry the markings of the warlord Nikos." She said, motioning towards my necklace. It had a sword engraved on it together with the letter N in Greek, Latin and Nordic writings. "I heard he died."

I nodded and yawned. I had trouble keeping my eyes open. "He was my father ... died some months ago in battle." I felt no pain at his loss.

"Get some more sleep … Your wound is deep. You are safe here."

I barely heard the last part as my eyes grew heavy and darkness grabbed hold of me once more.


Ok, so that was my first day with Xena and her friend. Not much, huh? Anyway, I don't remember much about the following days. My wound got infected, fever grabbed me and so did hallucinations. I remember moments that I cried out for my mother who was long dead. I also remember compassionate green eyes and a soft voice telling me that everything will be fine. Gabrielle told me stories. I listened though I could barely follow them most of the time. I dropped in and out of consciousness and started to believe that, no matter how hard the bard and the warrior tried, I would die.


"She'll be ok. I cleaned the wound again and gave her something for the fever." I heard a voice say. "Good … I ran out of supplies to help her. It's a good thing we made it here in time, thank you, Saras." That was Xena. "Not a problem, I am a healer after all. Anyway, I'll check on her later. I'm sure Queen Gabrielle wants to know how she is and she must be driving Ephiny crazy." I could hear a chuckle and then the shuffling of feet. Xena gave me a last look before she left. I didn't see it but I felt it. The stare of those icy blues.

I tried to pry my eyes open but failed every time. *Great, my body takes a vacation but leaves my brain behind.* I mused and tried to move my fingers. It worked, though they felt rather stiff. I finally succeeded in opening my eyes to slits and I moaned when the light hit my sore brain. My vision was blurry for a while but soon I could focus better. There was a roof above my head … made of wood and straw, a hut?

I shook my head and groaned right after doing that *Bad idea* the movements made me tired again and slowly everything became dark.

Consciousness came slowly. I heard someone near my bed and then felt something wet touching my lips. Not fully awake, I just acted and grabbed the arm in front of my face without looking. I know I must have squeezed hard because of the yelp I heard. Slowly I opened my eyes and as the blurry vision faded, I saw the most intense but strange coloured eyes I ever saw. They were somewhere between green and violet. Pain shone in them and I wondered why.

"Please let me go, I won't hurt you." The angel said.

I looked down and saw my hand holding her arm. I realised the wet sensation came from the water bag she was holding. I quickly let go and she gave me a slight smile. She came closer and held the water against my lips. "Here drink." She said.

I did, while watching her every move. I just couldn't keep my eyes of her. Her hair was reddish brown and barely touched her shoulders. It was thick and wavy and I couldn't help but wondering how it would feel to run my fingers through it. "My name is Taya. The healer asked me to check on you" She said with a smile. Her nose crinkled when she smiled. Damn, that was cute and right then I decided to make her smile again. She placed the water bag on a small table next to the bed and faced me again. "You are Niké right?" I nodded. "Xena told me."

"Where am I?" I asked, my voice sounded strange to me and I started to cough.

She was by my side in an instant. "Take it easy, your body went through a lot. Let it heal. And to answer your question, you're in an Amazon village. Queen Gabrielle and Xena brought you here."

My eyebrows shot up at that, "Queen Gabrielle?" I said, though I couldn't get my voice any louder than a whisper.

Taya chuckled. "Yes, Queen Gabrielle. She travels with Xena and so Regent Ephiny rules in her absence." She felt silent for a moment and then stood up. "I better let you get some rest or Saras the healer will be angry. She might look like an old lady but don't get her mad." Taya chuckled and I smiled too. "Well, I have to get going then. See ya later." She said and walked through the door after giving me a wave.

I let my head fall back down and sighed. *What the hell just happened?* I wondered, more so because when I closed my eyes I saw those green/violet eyes before me. I shook my head and slowly darkness took me once more.


That was the first time we met. At that time I could never imagine what that little Amazon would mean to me in the end. But don't let me get ahead of the story too much. What happened in the next days was nothing special. I slept a lot and when I was awake, I ate. Quite boring for a warrior like me and by the fourth day I was ready to kick some Amazonian butt because they wouldn't let me leave the bed.


"I am FINE! Which part of that don't you people understand?" I yelled against yet another Amazonian guard who ordered me to stay in bed.

Xena entered the hut, probably because one of the other guards had fetched her. "It's ok, Solari, I'll handle her." 6 feet of tall, dark and beautiful warrior stood inside. This was actually the first time I saw her in the light, she usually came by late in the evening, so I was truly impressed by this vision. Solari threw Xena a look of relief before she exited quickly. Xena stood next to my bed with her hands on her hips, probably trying to impress me or something. "Why are you acting like this?" her low voice asked.

"Like you don't know … lying here, day after day, I want out of this bed." I huffed.

I saw a small grin appear at the corners of her mouth. "Yeah, quite boring huh? They can't make me stay in a bed more than a few days. I'm impressed that you lasted this long." She walked over to the desk at the other side of the hut and grabbed a pile of black fabric and tossed it over to me. I caught it and then only noticed that it was my own clothes, the many tears now neatly sewed. "Get dressed, I'll show you around - and don't forget to thank Gabrielle for repairing those, I would have burned them." She walked out of the hut with a smirk.

I quickly dressed, still mindful of my wound, and stood up slowly. I didn't see my sword anywhere so I figured that the Amazons didn't trust me with it … or that it was left in the corpse of the man I killed days ago. Shrugging, I left the hut and found Xena leaning casually against the wall. "You ready to go?" the warrior asked, not even looking my way. "Euhm … sure." I mumbled.

Xena started walking and I followed, noticing for the first time that I still had a few inches in height over the other woman. Somehow, that pleased me. We walked for a few moments and neared another guarded hut. Xena just walked inside and the guards didn't even move. *They must really trust her* I thought, especially when the guards eyes me suspiciously as I passed through.

The hut was large and held a big table in the centre. Two women sat at it. One I recognised as Gabrielle, the other one I didn't know. She had curly blond hair and was clearly an Amazon. Her clothing gave that away. Xena walked towards them and waved me over. "Niké, meet Ephiny" she said right before the curly-haired one stood up. "I'm glad to see you're feeling better." Ephiny said in a friendly voice and held out her arm. I took the Regent's arm in a warrior handshake.

"Yeah." I said, not really knowing what I was supposed to say. "Thanks for that."

Ephiny smiled. "Not a problem. A friend of our Queen and Xena is welcome here. Stay for a long as you wish." She paused and sat down again. I followed her example. "You're free to wander around the village. Just be careful not to wander too far. Thugs have been reported inside our territory and it might be dangerous if you wander off too far."

I nodded, still a bit surprised at the freedom they allowed me to have. Don't they know that I'm a warlord? "I won't stay for long. And I really appreciate the help you gave me. All of you." I looked at Gabrielle and Xena. Gabrielle smiled back at me while Xena gave me a nod.

I stood up and excused myself, knowing that the Regent and Queen might have other things to discus. Xena followed me outside. We walked around the village for long moments before the warrior placed a hand on my shoulder. "The Amazons caught one of those thugs Ephiny spoke of. He hung himself yesterday." She stopped and I knew that there was something else on the warrior's mind. But the warrior continued walking and I didn't press the issue for now.

We stopped at the edge of the village. It was a large open field where many Amazons were practicing their fighting skills. I was impressed. To the right there was a sparring battle between two Amazons with chobos. I knew the weapon since I had trained with it when I was younger. But compared with these women, I was an amateur. Further along the field, a group of youngsters were practicing basic sword movements. I never saw training like that and decided to try it out with my own army when I got back.

Something got my attention suddenly. It was a battle on the other end of the field and something just drew me there. One tall, blond Amazon stood against a shorter one, each carrying battle staffs. I walked closer until I got a good view of the fight. I was not the only one interested. Another group of young Amazons gathered to watch and cheered, calling out the name Lyanna. I knew it was for the blond that they were cheering, since she had an arrogant smirk on her face. The shorter one was getting angry as she glared at everyone around her. Her eyes met mine and I saw the familiar green/violet eyes of the girl I met before. Though now they had anger in them.

Then the battle started. Taya pounced at her taller opponent and opened with a powerful slash towards Lyanna's stomach. The blond simply stepped aside and took a swing at Taya's legs, taking the smaller girl down. Laughter erupted around them. Taya crawled on her feet and swung the staff carelessly at her opponent, who blocked with her own staff and countered with a hard strike in Taya's stomach. Taya fell on her knees, grabbing her stomach. "Oh, c'mon little Taya. You're not giving up already, are ya?" the big blond taunted.

I decided that this was enough and stepped forward. "Why don't you take on someone your own size?" I said while walking next to the fallen Amazon. Lyanna looked at me angrily. "Why don't you mind your own business!" she spat, I simply smiled back. "You're beating up a fellow Amazon during training, how brave." I sneered.

Taya looked up at me with an expression that I could not read. I ducked to retrieve her staff. When I looked up at the blond, I was struck by her resemblance to Taya. They had the same unusual eyes. I shook my head wondering if the two were sisters.

Lyanna readied herself for combat. "Taya can't fight, that means she's a worthless Amazon."

I tested the staff quickly to check its balance and was quite pleased with it. I'm sure it was about the same weight as the ones I used with my army. I faced the blond. "Not everyone needs to be able to fight to be great. You just prove how good you are right now and maybe you or these 'friends' of yours might learn something now."

"And what would that be?" Lyanna taunted. I shrugged. "That brain comes before brawn, that it doesn't matter how tall or how short you are to win a fight, that more than half of the battle is won in your head, should I continue?" I had a guileless look on my face.

As I expected, Lyanna turned red from anger and charged. She threw some impressive moves, I simply blocked them all. I did nothing more than blocking while the blond attacked furiously. When I had enough, I sidestepped a full force swing, unbalancing the blond and landed a hard strike across her shoulder. Lyanna fell down and I kept her there with my boot on her back. "First lesson, you have to think clearly in battle and focus. Getting angry will get you killed." I moved back and watched Lyanna scramble to her feet. "Second, this is a training match. You don't fight to injure your opponent. If I landed that blow on your back instead of your shoulders, you would be paralyzed now." I threw down the staff and turned to look for Taya, but the girl was gone.

Turning my back completely, I started to walk away when I heard an angry yell behind me and was too late to block the staff hitting me in the side, right where my still healing wound was. I went down in pain for a few moments before looking at the heaving Lyanna standing before me. Holding my side, I stood up to my full height and towered over Lyanna. For a second there, I thought about breaking the arrogant Amazon's little neck. "Now, that was really brave." I sneered, controlling my anger. Then I shook my head and limped away. Behind me, I could hear Lyanna throwing down her staff and I heard the disapproving murmurs among the audience we had gathered.

I saw Xena leaning against a tree watching me. I'm sure she saw the whole thing. She walked over to me. "She's a good fighter, too bad she's as arrogant as Ares." I nodded, "That's an understatement," though in my mind, no one was as arrogant as the God of War himself.

"You ok?" Xena asked. I nodded slowly. "Why don't I believe you?". I took away my hand from my side and found it covered with blood. "Damn it to Tartarus and back!"

Xena shook her head. "Let's get back to the hut. I'll check your wound." Nodding, I followed the warrior.


Well, that was a nice day, huh. We got back to the hut and Xena discovered that I ripped some stitches and a part of the wound had reopened. It could have been worse, but still, it hurt like hell. With a few new stitches in my side, I was good as new … well kind of. I tired myself more than I realised and Xena ordered me to stay in bed for the rest of the day. She would have food delivered to the hut. I didn't protest and was left alone to rest. Until that evening …


An Amazon had brought me a plate of food, for which I was grateful. Just as I started to dig in, there was a knock on my door. "Yeah?" I barked.

Slowly, the door opened and Taya walked in. Now, she was the last person I expected to see here tonight. "Euhm, Hi" she said softly, standing just inside the hut. I smiled and pointed at a chair next to my bed. Taya nodded and sat down there.

We were silent for a few moments, since I had no idea why the Amazon would come to me. "Why did you do that?" she lasered her unusual eyes at me.

"You mean the fight?" I asked and she nodded. "Oh, well, I just felt like it, I guess. Besides, that was not a training battle. You could've gotten hurt."

"You did get hurt!"

I shook my head. "I'm fine, nothing that won't heal. I've had worse, you know. And besides, I enjoyed wiping that arrogant smile off Lyanna's face." I grinned widely.

Taya looked down and spoke softly. "Thank you. Lyanna isn't that bad most of the time, but she was influenced by her friends today. She wanted to prove herself and I'm the easiest to do that with."

I shook my head. "That's not an excuse. A warrior like her should know better." I asked gently, "She's your sister, right?" Taya nodded, "My older sister."

"Wow, it must have been hard growing up with someone like that." Taya shook her head before looking up. "It has not always been like that. I love my sister and I'm sure she loves me too, but … Lyanna always wants to prove herself, over and over again. And she wants me to be as strong as her … But I am not." Her head dropped again and I reached over to lift her chin slightly. "Hey, don't underestimate yourself. I know you are strong." She started to protest but I continued. "I see it in your eyes. It's in your blood, you're an Amazon." with that I let her go and leaned back.

"But I can't fight, even the little kids can beat me up." She murmured shamefully and I thought that the reason for that was in her head. "Why do you think that is?" I asked. Taya was surprised by that question and it took a few moments before she could come up with a reply.

"I think because I'm too short and not strong enough." She spoke softly.

I smiled. "Really? You're about the same height as Gabrielle and I figure just as strong. I've seen Gabrielle fight and she's great."

Taya nodded. "I know, that's why I tried the battle staff but it seems I can't even get the basic moves right, no matter how hard I try." I could sense a great sadness in her voice now and it broke my heart. I came to a decision.

"Can you meet me at the training grounds tomorrow at dawn?" I asked. Taya nodded slowly. "I don't have chores until tomorrow afternoon … why?"

I smiled mysteriously. "You'll see ... bring your staff." Taya eyed me suspiciously but agreed.

"Great, I'll see you then." I said with a smile and Taya smiled back, to my delight. The Amazon slowly made to leave. She glanced back at me, shook her head and walked out.

I couldn't wipe the smile off my face as I finally started on my now cold dinner. I couldn't care less. When I was finished, I placed the plate on the table and crawled into my bed. Closing my eyes, I was out seconds after my head hit the pillow and dreamt about a short, auburn haired woman with sparkling green/violet eyes.

The sun had just started to show his face as I crossed the village towards the training fields, stealing a staff from the weaponry on the way. She was already there waiting. "Good morning" I called out as I got closer. Taya turned and looked at me, the rising sun behind her creating an enchanting vision I would not easily forget. Mentally shaking my head, I wondered once more what was going on with me.

"You're here early." I said quickly when I reached her. She smiled "Yeah, I couldn't help but wondering what you were up to. I couldn't sleep longer." She eyed the staff I carried.

"Like you don't have it figured out by now." I said with a dazzling smile of my own while taking a defensive stance with the staff.

"You're here to beat me up?" she wondered out loud. I shook my head. "I'm going to prove to you that you are strong and that you can fight. Let's try some basics. Copy what I do."

Taya sighed, "It's no use, I suck ... Besides, doesn't your side still hurt?" I nodded slowly. "It does, a little … But I'm used to training with wounds and I wont overdo it the first days." I said and she seemed to agree. With a deep sigh, she lifted her staff and prepared to follow my lead.

For the next half-hour, I showed her the basics of staff techniques and Taya tried to copy. Tried was the keyword here.

The Amazon was about the clumsiest warrior I had ever met. She had potential, but kept using the wrong foot, placing her body off balance and hitting herself.

I halted the test after she hit herself in the head for the umpteenth time. Taya looked at me sadly as she dropped to the ground. "I told you." She murmured. I had an idea about another method of teaching I once saw my father use.

I held out my hand. "Get up. Let me try something else." Taya grabbed my arm and pulled herself up. "Grab your staff" I said as I stood behind her, Taya did as she was told. "Now don't be alarmed." I warned her as I pulled her tightly against my body. I could feel her tense up.

"You have to learn to feel with your body to fight. Hold out your staff." She did and I placed my hands next to hers on the staff; this was so much easier with me being so taller, the top of the Amazon's head barely came to my chin. "Ok, now I want you to relax, close your eyes and listen to your body." She nodded nervously and did as I said. After a few moments I could feel her body relaxing. "Now, we'll try the same moves as before, together."

I slowly slashed out with the right side of the staff while bringing my right foot forward and rotating my hip a little. Taya was forced to do the same. Then I repeated with the left. Then an overhead slash, making sure I remembered the Amazon's height. "Do you feel it?" I asked softly, while suppressing a groan. Being so close to this woman was intoxicating and doing things to me. I just hoped she didn't felt my heart threatening to beat out of my chest.

Taya nodded. "Yes, I do" she said softly. We continued training this way for a while, perhaps for about an hour. An hour of sweet torture. I let Taya try some moves on her own and to her and my surprise, she didn't hit herself every time.

"I told you so." I said as she finished a perfect slash. "It's all about feeling the moves." Taya whooped and flashed me one of her brilliant smiles. That was all the gratitude I needed.

"Thank you." She gushed but I waved it off. "No need for that but you still have a way to go before beating your sister." She nodded. "I know, but now I know that it is possible ... will you train with me again?"

I thought for a second, "I'll be here for a few more days, so maybe tomorrow?"

"I'll be here bright and early." Taya answered with a huge smile.

"Good. Now, could you do me a favour and show me where I can get a bath or something? I think I need it." Taya chuckled. "Yeah, I think you do." She taunted and then pointed to the nearest hut. "That's the bathing hut. Or you could take a swim in the lake, though it will be filled this time of the day."

"Nah, I think I'll take the hut." I gave her my staff. "Could you place that back at the weaponry? I kinda stole it." Taya frowned slightly and then started to laugh at my best puppy-dog look. "Ok, I'll bring an extra staff tomorrow, toughie. No need to anger the weapon master." I thanked her and watched her walk away. *Be still my beating heart* I told myself, shaking my head and heading over to the bathing hut.

The hut was bigger than most and was placed a bit away from the other huts, it sat on rocky ground. Steam rose from the small windows and as I entered, I found it empty, to my delight. Inside, three medium-sized pools were cut out of the rock surface and filled with steaming, clear water. *A natural hot spring at the edge of the village. Amazons choose their homes well.* I thought and walked over to the furthest hot pool. Quickly stripping out of my clothes, still careful of the tender wound, I sunk my lean frame in the water and sighed. It dawned on me that I would have to dress in my dirty clothes again, but right now I didn't care.

I think it was around noon when I finally dragged myself out of there. I quickly wiped myself dry with a towel and dressed. Luckily my dark blond hair was short so it dried quickly.

I was just about to leave the hut when a scream pierced the air, closely followed by the yell of "SARAS!". Recognising the healer's name, I ran out of the hut towards a group of women gathered. Spotting Xena, I headed over and saw that she was kneeling over an Amazon. "What happened?" I asked.

"She's from the hunting party that went out this morning." The warrior said. "She's been shot with an arrow." She pointed at another Amazon. "Help me carry her inside." The Amazon nodded and both of them carried the wounded one into Saras' hut.

The rest of us waited outside for news. A short while later, Xena appeared again. "She'll be ok." She said and everyone around me was relieved but still worried. The rest of the hunting party had not returned.

Xena came towards me and slapped an item covered in cloth against my chest. "Come with me." She said and walked off. I followed, grabbing the item in my hands tightly. I peeled the cloth away and saw the arrow in my hand. "Oh, damn." I cursed, recognising the small crest in the arrowhead.

Xena had stopped walking and I almost bumped into her. "Nikos was a strange man. For one thing, he ordered that his crest would be carved on all of his property, including arrows." the warrior said.

I looked at her. "Those thugs you spoke of the other day, they are my warriors. My army. They carry the same mark I do."

"Yes" Xena said. "And three more Amazons are missing. We think they have them."

I shook my head. "My men are not allowed to take prisoners like that."

"I don't think they're your men anymore. To them you died in battle. One of them must have taken command." Xena entered the hut. I followed and met with Ephiny.

I held my head low, ashamed of my own men. Ephiny remained seated. "What do we do know, Xena?" she asked.

"We should check out their camp, see how they work and then find a way to free the Amazons." Xena answered.

"Let me go." I insisted. "They're my army. If I get back there they will return to me and I'll set the Amazons free. Then we will leave your territory and never return."

Ephiny nodded, Xena didn't look convinced. "If they are not back by morning, I'll send a war party after them" the Regent said and I accepted it. I bowed before her. "Thank you for your hospitality and I apologise for the trouble." Then I left quickly, not seeing the wink Ephiny gave Xena.

I went to my hut and retrieved my meagre belongings. As I passed the weaponry and I took a sword before heading over to the stables. "I need to borrow a horse." I told one of the workers there. She nodded and showed me a brown mare. "Saddles are over there" the Amazon said and pointed to a large chest. She left and I quickly saddled up the horse.

"You're leaving." I heard behind me and found Taya standing there. "Yes." I answered simply.

"Will you be back?" she asked and I sighed. "I don't know." I mounted the horse. Taya looked at me sadly and moved closer to place a hand on my knee. "I'll miss you." This caused me to swallow audibly. "Euhm … me too" I said. Taya smiled sadly. "Be safe." the Amazon whispered and stepped back. I took a last look into her eyes and already knew that I would never forget her. My heart wouldn't let me.

I left the stable quickly and stormed out of the village. *Will I ever return here?* I wondered. I sadly thought I wouldn't.


I rode fast nearly driving the horse close to exhaustion. I knew the area a little and so I knew where my army would be camped. A large army like that couldn't camp wherever it wanted. In the meantime, I wondered who had taken command. It couldn't be Davis, my second in command, because I saw him die during the battle with Rome.

I noticed tracks on the ground. Horses, heavily loaded with armour. Tracks of heavy warrior boots and also smaller footsteps, much lighter ... Amazons. I knew I was on the right track.

Slowing the horse down, I rode into a clearing. Several soldiers sat talking on the ground. I rolled my eyes. Suddenly, one of them noticed me. His companions noticed his wide eyes and turned to look. I've never seen adult men scramble to their feet so fast.

"If this was an Amazon war party, you'd be dead." I said angrily. "Who's in command?"

One of them found his voice. "Ray is … he said that he saw both you and Davis die, C…Commander."

I sighed. Reinhart, he hated his name and wants everyone to call him Ray. He had been after my position for a long time. I thought he had finally given up but it seems I was wrong. The bastard just waited for the right opportunity. "Where is he?" I asked with controlled anger in my voice.

"Master tent, he's having a meeting with the generals. Doesn't want to be disturbed." I barely heard the last part as I rode in the direction of camp.

From all sides, soldiers stared at me as I rode proudly down the camp.

I stopped outside the centre tent and dismounted. I could already hear the heavy discussion inside. I entered silently. There were five men standing around a round table where a great map of the area was spread out. They were so engrossed in the discussion that they did not see me enter. I listened for a few moments, leaning casually against a tent pole.

"If we place a group here and here …" The tall, scruffy man named Ray said while pointing at the map "… and lure the Amazons out of their village, we can completely trap them." Another man, shorter with flaming red hair, interrupted. "But why attack the Amazons? They don't have any special resources and this land is all forest and rock. There's nothing of worth here."

Ray smirked evilly. "My dear General Skeld, Amazons are the resource here. Don't you know how much Amazonian slaves are worth these days? They're so rare." Skeld shook his head, as did a few others. It was a handsome tall blond man that spoke. "Niké would have never agreed to that." He said sharply and next to him the others nodded. Ray laughed. "But that's the fun part, Niké is dead!"

I choose that moment to announce myself with a cough. They turned and I had to hold in a smile at the look on their faces. "It seems the rumour of my demise is a little bit exaggerated." I said, slowly stepping forward.

Skeld spoke first. "Commander, we thought you were dead." He glared angrily at Ray. The blond man moved to my side. "My commander" he said and bowed his head. Another red-haired man, Skeld's younger brother Liam, stepped next to his brother. "Ray said he saw you fall." I looked at him. "What are you doing here Liam? Last time I saw you, you were still a captain?" Liam nodded slowly. "General Davis had fallen and I took his place." He said softly. I smiled and gave the boy a nod, knowing that at least one good decision has been made.

I stepped further inside, stepping in front of a huge black man who looked at me angrily. "Don't you have anything to say, Volk?" The black man frowned for a long moment before a wide grin split his face, showing his sparkling white teeth. "Good to have ya back, boss." he said in his booming voice, making me smile.

Then I turned to Ray, who had remained quiet with his eyes downcast. "Reinhart!" I shouted and saw him shiver. I rarely used his full name and when I did, it wasn't pretty. "Pick a weapon and meet me outside." I glanced at the pitiful man before me, seeing beads of sweat forming on his forehead. He had fooled me for the last time. I stormed outside and waited a few paces before the tent and between the soldiers who had gathered.

The four generals stepped out and waited, a solemn expression on their faces.

After a few moments, Ray appeared. He held a sword in his hand. "This is all a misunderstanding, my Commander." I crossed my arms over my chest and stared at him. "Right, so you didn't tell everyone that I was dead without knowing for sure, doing so only to take over this army as you have tried a dozen times before?" I grimly recapped.

It took Ray a moment to reply. "Well, I only did that for the good of the men." he said and I could see him changing before my eyes. He stood up straight and there was a gleam in his eye. He was up to something.

"I came to this army under the command of your father. Now, he was a great man. We ran through villages and took whatever, whomever we wanted. We had quite a life then. But then Nikos died and gave command over to you. And while you are a good fighter, like your father, you're not as tough." He turned to the soldiers, who listened intensely.

"Who remembers the good times when we always had servants and slaves to pick out for our pleasure? How long has it's been since we have been allowed? How long since we crushed a village, filling the earth with blood? And who lead us to war against Rome anyway? An army far to great for anyone to defeat." I could hear rumblings among the soldiers and Ray faced me again. "Do you know how many men we lost? More than half. Our pride was crushed. We were never defeated before. I'll change this! I'll restore this army! And we'll start with the Amazons!" This brought a cheer from the soldiers.

"Fools!" I yelled, walking toward Ray. "You think this will be easy? You have no idea how great this tribe is. How good their warriors are. Attacking the Amazons is suicide. And keeping those three you have captured will lead to war. They'll come here in numbers you won't be able to count and they'll spare no one." I looked at the other generals. "Free them and leave this place … or die, it's your choice."

Ray didn't look impressed. "You came from deep inside Amazon territory. They took you in, didn't they? You heard that, men … our leader betrayed us. She's now with the Amazons." I noticed the men siding with Ray. I had lost their respect.

Skeld, Liam and Volk stepped up besides me, while the blond General stepped next to Ray. I looked at the three who choose my side. "Why?" I asked. They shrugged. "You were never a real Commander. We followed you because you're a friend." Liam said. "And besides, we like Amazons. Where we come from there are also strong woman, the Valkyries." Skeld added with a grin. "We learned to respect them."

Volk growled. "I just want to crush some skulls." he said with a grin and I thanked them. Any chance that I could thank them later was slim as we now stood against my whole army.

Ray laughed. "This will be so easy." He said. "DIE!!" he charged and so did the rest of the army. But I swore not to go down easily.

However, before the first soldier had fallen under my blade, I heard a familiar battle cry behind me, followed by other cries of war. Amazons suddenly appeared from everywhere. Arrows rained down upon the army. I could see Xena in action again and this time I could think straight. She was truly amazing!

I saw Ray cowering behind a few soldiers. I ran over to him, taking care of a few soldiers on the way. "Ray!" I yelled, reaching his body guards. It took exactly ten seconds and two strikes before the soldiers dropped down. Ray fell on his knees. "Please … mercy … I-I didn't mean it, I …" I interrupted him. "Save it! … You're really pathetic." I prepared for the strike, but couldn't do it. To kill him now, like this, was out of the question. Unarmed and on his knees, killing him would be murder. I lowered my sword. "Leave. If I ever see you again, I'll kill you. Now go, before I change my mind." I turned and walked away. My senses were on high and I shook my head right before plunging my sword backwards, impaling Ray who cowardly tried to stab me in the back.

I watched his lifeless body fall before finally walking away. The battle was not yet over.

While fighting a soldier, my eye caught another soldier preparing to strike a fatal blow to a fallen Amazon. I quickly slashed my own opponent down before hurling my sword at the soldier. It hit him right in the chest. The Amazon looked at me, amazement in her eyes. *Those eyes* I though and then it hit me. *Lyanna*. Suddenly Lyanna screamed, "Behind you!" I dropped down just in time to keep my head. I rolled to the side, kicked the man on his knee, successfully breaking it and reverse-kicked him in the head.

I slowly got to my feet, grabbing my side. That rolling thingy stressed my still healing wound and I was starting to feel exhausted. I looked around and saw that the battle was as good as over. Only a few soldiers were left and the Amazons quickly took care of them. They started to cheer now that it was over and I was relieved to find my three friends cheering with them. Only Liam looked a little worse for wear with a few cuts and bruises.

Between the fallen bodies, I saw Xena coming towards me. "Good fight." She said and I nodded. "You know, Xena, you could have warned me." I said and Xena shrugged. "We wanted to see if this could be handled peacefully. Clearly, it couldn't." she pointed around her at the scene and I laughed. Warriors do have a strange sense of humour. We started to make our way over to the others.

About a half-hour later, we were preparing to leave. I sat resting against a tree watching the people around me. Skeld was busy fussing over his brother's minor wounds, while Volk was sharpening his axe. To the right, I saw Saras who had been waiting in the woods until the battle was over. She was busy treating the many scraps and bruises the warriors sported. I was surprised to hear that there were no deaths on the Amazon side. Their goddess must have been watching them this day.

I also saw Lyanna. The normally loudmouthed Amazon was sitting quietly against a tree. She hadn't said much since the battle and I guess that she was still a little shaken from coming so close to death. A bit further, the three freed Amazons sat together with Ephiny. I could also see the auburn head of Taya, wandering from one place to another. She glanced my way once in a while and every time our eyes met, I could feel an unfamiliar tingle in my stomach. I hoped I wasn't getting ill.

Gabrielle had arrived and was helping Xena and the healer with the wounded. Soon, they were finished and Xena came over to me and my three friends. "The Amazons are very grateful for your help." She turned to the other three. "You cannot stay in the village, though. There is a centaur village just behind the river. You'll be welcome there." Skeld nodded with a smile. "Thank you." He said. Xena nodded back and left us.

Skeld turned to me. "We better get going." he said.

"Where will you go?"

"My brother and I are going home to the North. I was getting tired of fighting anyway." Liam nodded. "Me too. It will be good to see mother again." I smiled. "And you Volk? Where will you go?"

The black man sighed sadly. "I don't know, I have no family anymore." There was silence for a moment, then Liam spoke. "Say, why don't you come with us. I'm sure our village could use some help on the farms." Volk looked at the young man and nodded with a smile. The three of them stood up and I followed. "Ok, that's settled then." Skeld said happily. "We rest up with the centaurs and then we head home." He turned to me. "You know … you have changed. I don't know exactly what it is, but there's something going on with you. I'm glad." He stepped closer and gave me a hug. Liam was next. "If you're ever heading north, stop by, ok?" I nodded and he gave me a hug as well. The brothers stepped aside and let the huge Volk pass. He grabbed me in a bear hug and whispered something in my ear. "Skeld might not know, but I do … the looks you've been giving that petite Amazon speak for themselves." I blushed and he let me go. "Don't fight it, it looks good on you." He said with a bright smile. They waved and as they left but not before I heard Liam asking Volk what he'd said to me.

I shook my head after them and wondered about Volk. A giant of a man but still soft at heart. I would miss them.

"We're leaving." Gabrielle said as she came up beside me. "You ok?" she asked. I nodded. "Yeah, I'll just miss them but I'm glad they have decided to go home. Finally, they will be happy."

Soon, the others joined us and we started for the village. A small group stayed behind to burn the bodies of the soldiers and destroy the camp. I glanced one last time at the spot where I last saw my friends knowing that I would never see them again.


What was I to do now? I was a warlord with no army, nor did I have a home to go to. It plagued me a long time, wondering what would be in store for me. And then there was this feeling towards the little Amazon, a feeling I did not know. For days I stayed in my hut, only coming out once in a while to grab a bite. I must have looked horrible, considering the looks that were thrown my way. My thick dark-blond hair, tangled as it always was, was now dirty and looked even more unkempt. My eyes, normally full of life, were now dull. At night I couldn't sleep, so I often sneaked out and took a walk. Mostly I ended up doing sword drills, just trying to tire myself. Both Xena and Gabrielle tried to speak to me, but they didn't get through. I thought that it was over for me. I was alone, completely on my own … and it scared me.


I could not sleep again tonight and it was a few hours before dawn when I dragged myself out of bed. I slipped on my boots and headed to the training grounds near the lake, dragging a battle staff with me. I did basic drills as a warm-up followed by advanced combinations.

Dawn broke but I didn't stop to admire its beauty. I kept striking blow after blow on my invisible opponent. Then, suddenly, I felt my senses warning me and just barely blocked the strike coming at my shoulder. I turned and faced Taya.

"What the Tartarus is going on with you?!" she yelled and I wondered the same thing. Normally, I could sense someone coming at me a mile away. I dropped the staff. "It's nothing." I hedged, but the angry look in the Amazon's eye told me that she didn't buy it. She shook her head and jabbed my shoulder with the staff. I was to slow to block it. She jabbed me again and again, nothing that hurt, just annoying. "Stop it!" I said forcefully as I finally slapped the offending staff away.

I tried to walk away, barely taking a step when Taya pounced on me, taking me down. I shook her off. She just smirked and jumped on me again. We wrestled for a few moments rolling around on the ground, not noticing that we were dangerously close to getting wet. Suddenly, Taya forcefully pushed me off and I splashed into the lake.

I was shocked for a few moments. I struggled to keep my head above water when I found out that it was shallow, only about a foot deep. Taya stood on dry land, struggling to keep from laughing but failing miserably. "You know, I think you could use a bath." She said between hiccups of laughter.

I glared at her. "That's the second time you said that I smell." I held out my hand, "help me up."

She took my hand and I pulled her into the lake next to me. Taya gave a yelp and splashed around like I did earlier. She tried to scowl at me but started laughing again and I couldn't help but join in. Gods, that felt so good.

I peered at my companion and found her more beautiful than ever. Time stood still as her beauty captivated me. The little speckles and crinkles around her nose, her full lips, the wet hair plastered to her face and those eyes were the most beautiful I had ever seen.

I knew I was starring but couldn't help myself. Only when I moved my hand to wipe an errant lock of hair from her face did I realise what I was doing. I was shocked, to say the least. "Euhm, we better get up, huh?" I said and quickly got to my feet. I held out my hand and helped Taya stand. The jolt of electricity I felt when she grabbed my hand made my heart skip a beat. I smiled nervously, blaming it on the cool water.

I stepped back onto the bank and noticed that she looked dazed. She shook her head and followed me out of the water. "You want to talk?" she prodded softly, "While we dry?"

I nodded and we squelched our way towards some rocks standing proudly in the morning sun. I slipped off my boots and shirt, leaving me in my inner top and heavy trousers. Since Amazons don't wear much, she only took off her boots - a fact for which I was both happy and strangely disappointed.

We sat in silence, savouring the warmth of the sun. Taya spoke first, "I'm worried about you, you know. So are Queen Gabrielle and Xena." I shrugged and she continued, "Ever since the battle you've been so withdrawn. You barely eat or sleep … what's going on, Niké?"

Oh, I love it when she says my name. I cough as I almost spilled my thoughts. I decided to tell her truth, "I'm scared."

Now, that was something Taya didn't expect. I could see it in her eyes. "Of what?" she asked. I sighed, "Being alone."

Taya smiled in sympathy, "You're not alone." I looked away. "Yes, I am. My entire life was spent with my father's army. Now my army is gone and as soon as you all tire of me, I'll have no place to go."

Taya gently cupped my face and forced me to look at her. "I'm not tired of you." she said. I lifted my eyebrows. "Really?" She nodded and smiled. "Yep." I felt my heart stirring again and that same tingly feeling returned to my stomach.

"There's something else on your mind." Taya stated. I chuckled. "You are starting to know me way to good." She giggled, "I've always been good at reading people. So, what's up?"

I scratched my neck and closed my eyes with a sigh. "I'm scared of you." I finally admitted. I could hear a change in her breathing.

"Of me? By Artemis, but why?" Taya was confused.

I couldn't face her so I kept looking at the lake. "I don't know … it's just a feeling. When I look at you, I … argggh! You know, I'm terrible with feelings. I'm only familiar with hate and anger." I punched my fist against the rock.

Taya moved towards me wrapped her hand around my now hurting fist. "That's not true … with Skeld, Liam and Volk you learned friendship. You showed honour and courage when you went to face your army on your own. You're brave and kind. And with your father …" I sighed again. "I had no father, he was my commander. I fought for him, nothing more."

Taya sidled closer. "I'm sorry you never had the love of your parents. That must've been terrible." I shrugged.

She mused, "It is said that those who never knew love as a child have a hard time recognising it later in their life." I glanced into Taya's eyes. *Love* I thought, feeling drawn to this woman like a moth to a flame.

"Are you still scared of me?" the Amazon asked softly, her voice deeper than before. I shook my head slowly and Taya slowly ran a hand along my jaw. She caressing a small scar there. Her hand moved up and tangled in my hair. "What are you doing?" I whispered.

She placed a finger on my lips and I closed my eyes to savour the feeling. Then, ever so slowly, she gently pulled my head down until I felt the softness of her lips on mine.

I felt I had died and gone to Elysia. There was no other explanation. The kiss lasted for long moments and was nothing more than just a brush of lips, but the way it made me feel was heavenly. Finally, we pulled apart a little and stared at each other.

She smiled and I smiled back. "Wow!" she murmured and I silently agreed, it was pretty wow. Feeling a bit braver now, Taya moved in for another kiss. She pressed her lips firmer on mine and I couldn't hold back a moan. Now, that really scared me. I never moaned before with a lover, especially when we're only kissing. And believe me, I had had a few lovers in my short life.

My reaction seemed to please Taya as she tightened the grip she had on my hair. I felt like I was floating. Then, oh gods, I felt her opening her mouth beneath mine and I could not hold myself back. I softly grabbed her neck and thrust my tongue inside her mouth. She moaned and met my every move. If I wasn't in Elysia before, I was now.

We stopped when we were both getting dangerously low on breath and just stared into each other's eyes while trying to get air back into our lungs. I unconsciously caressed the soft hairs at the back of her neck and watched her eyes close in pleasure.

"You are so beautiful" I murmured and she smiled dreamily. She opened her eyes to watch me. "So are you," she answered.

"But you still need a bath and some fresh cloths, and yes, this is the third time I've said that you smell." she chuckled. Quickly slipping on her boots she jumped to her feet. "C'mon, go to the bathing hut and I'll see if I can find you something to wear." I giggled and shook my head before crawling to my feet and wearing my boots.

Together, we walked towards the big bathing hut. I was pleased to find it empty. "I'll be right back" Taya announced and placed a soft kiss on my lips before running back to the village. I couldn't keep the goofy smile off my face as I entered the hut. I stripped out of my clothes and stepped into the water with a sigh. Without my noticing, I drifted off to sleep.

I don't know how long I was out but I woke up with the feeling of hands caressing my hair. "Hi." I heard her behind me and I smiled. Taya sat behind me on the edge of the bath, her legs dangling next to my shoulders. "Duck, so I can rinse out the soap in your hair." she said. I frowned. She washed my hair and I didn't notice it, guess I must have been more tired than I thought.

I dipped my head beneath the water and felt her hands running through my hair. When it was free of soap, I came back up and leaned against the side. Taya rubbed my shoulders.

"You know, there's a very useful tool called a comb or brush … you ever heard of it?" I laughed and shook my head. "Won't work anymore. Only cutting it all off will help and I don't feel like doing that." She joined in my laughter and ran a hand through my short dread-locks. "It suits you," she said and I glanced at her. "Yeah, it adds to your wild image."

"So, I'm wild, huh?" I asked, wiggling my eyebrows. She nodded, "Yep, like a lion with their wild mane. Beautiful creatures." I blushed slightly and she smiled.

She stood up and pointed to a pile of fabric. "Clothes and a towel. I'll be waiting outside. Maybe we can grab a bite when you are ready?" I eagerly agreed. Taya smiled happily and left the bathing hut, carrying her boots.

I pulled myself out of the bath and dried off with the towel. I eyed the clothes suspiciously. Amazon clothing? I picked up the skirt and held it up. It barely reached my knees. Shrugging, I put it on and the brown top as well. I smiled when I spotted my short, sleeveless black shirt. Taya must have found it in my saddlebag. I put it on and left it open at the front. Then, I pulled on my black boots and headed outside.

My abs and part of my legs were bare as the top was shorter than I first realised. It made me feel a little uneasy. I knew I had a decent body, if you looked past the many small scars that covered it, but still …

Taya smiled widely when I appeared outside. "You look great!" she said and I shrugged.

We headed towards the chow hut to get something to eat. I received strange looks from Amazons we passed. Taya must have noticed and she took my hand, weaving our fingers together. "Don't worry, you look like one of us now, that's why they are surprised." she whispered. I smiled at her. Me, an Amazon? Who would have thought.

We got some food and sat together on a bench outside to eat. We talked about small things. I learned Taya lived together with her sister Lyanna in a hut at the edge of the village and that her mother was a hunter. It surprised me to learn that her mother lived together with a warrior, and that they were joined over 20 years ago. So, the two sisters had two mothers. I also learned that biologically, Taya and Lyanna were half-sisters. Their mothers each carried one of them, but they had the same father who was a good friend from the village over the river. Both of them inherited his unusual eye colour. She told me a few stories about her childhood and about growing up in the shadow of her older sister. I didn't speak much, there was not much to say. Still, it was a nice relaxing conversation.

Afterwards, Taya informed me that her had mother asked her to join her on a hunting trip in the afternoon. I decided to catch up on some sleep. We walked together to my hut. "Maybe I'll see you tonight?" I asked hopefully. "Probably not, we won't be in till late." She smiled to soften my disappointment. "Tomorrow then." I promised and her smile grew wider. "Yeah." she said and then pulled my head down for a deep kiss, "Bye." I, at lose for words, could only wave and watch her walk away.

With a grin on my face, I walked inside and shrugged out of my boots and shirt. I dropped down on the bed and felt the restless nights coming back to me with a vengeance. However, I soon fell asleep to dream of a short Amazon with green/violet eyes.


Ahh, the kiss … our first kiss. It is one of my most cherished memories until this day. I think I realised back then what the Amazon would come to mean to me but expressing my feelings were not one of my, quote Xena "Many skills". I loved her, even back then. The feeling only grew with time.

The next few days were the most peaceful I had ever known. They were filled with checking out the village, making new friends with the Amazons, joining the training and so on. Whenever Taya was free, she was my shadow and I enjoyed every moment of it. I trained with her every day and was glad to see that she got the hang of it and was improving fast. I sparred with Xena a few times too. The warrior was getting restless from staying in one place for so long but Gabrielle had asked to stay for the next moon festival. Of course, Xena couldn't resist.

One day, Xena and I gathered a crowd as we gave it our best effort, fighting with wooden swords. It seemed that we were equally matched but I knew the warrior would best me sooner or later. True enough, a few moments later Xena used a move I had never seen before and disarmed me. I bowed my head in defeat with a smile. Damn, that woman was good.

My wound had healed and my mind was once again wondering what was up next. I was thinking of asking Xena if I could travel with her for a while but my heart refused. I could not leave Taya. It was two days before the moon festival when I was forced to make a decision ...


Taya and I went for a swim after a great sparring match. We enjoyed this time alone together. I climbed back on shore and started to dry myself while Taya remained in the water and stared at me. "Queen Gabrielle and Xena are leaving soon." She said after a few moments. I wrapped the towel around my body before moving to the edge of the lake and settling down with my legs back in the water. Taya swam over to me and leaned her head on my thighs. "I know," I said softly, watching her. It seemed to me that she was getting more beautiful each day that passed. "Are you leaving too?" I heard her ask.

"At first I was planning to …" I felt her stiffen and she clamped onto my leg, "... but now I don't know." She frowned, "What changed?" I smiled gently, "You … me … things like that," I said softly. Taya smiled. She reached up and grabbed a handful of my locks by which she pulled me down for a kiss. I could hear bells ringing in my ears and see lights flashing before my eyes. *it must be love*

She released me and looked into my eyes. "So, will you stay?" I knew that I needed to be honest "I don't know." The hurt look in her eyes made my heart ache, "I am not an Amazon. I don't know if this is my place."

Taya pulled herself out of the water and sat next to me. I watched with wide eyes her bare skin visible before quickly slamming my eyes shut, mentally scolding myself and hoping she didn't notice.

"What does your heart tell you?" she asked softly as she moved to sit behind me. She pulled me against her chest, hugging me tightly.

I was finding it hard to breath as I could clearly feel her breasts pressed against my back. I swallowed audible, trying to moisturise my suddenly dry mouth. "Euh … my heart is yelling at me that I'd be a fool to leave. It's also saying that you're venturing onto dangerous ground right now," I managed squeak out.

Taya chuckled and placed kisses near my ear, starting at my shoulder. "I like danger," she whispered and I shivered involuntarily. I turned my head and we met in a kiss. It started sweet and tender, but suddenly, Taya took control and turned it into a mind-blowing, aggressive kiss. She pushed me on my back and I couldn't quite believe it. I was used to being the aggressor.

As quickly as it started it was over. Shocked, I opened my eyes and found Taya a few feet away dressing herself. She had with a self-satisfied grin on her face. I shook my head and tried to catch my breath. My body's reaction was hard to ignore. "Tease … she's a tease." I mumbled and crawled on my feet. I reached for my clothes and put them on. It was a slow process because my legs seemed to be made from jelly. Taya still had smug look on her face as she watched me. "C'mon, hot-stuff - it was just a kiss," she said and I shot her a death glare.

Finally dressed, I walked over to her and placed a light kiss on her lips. "Don't mention this to anyone … it will ruin my reputation." Taya smiled and we walked back to the village together.

Regent Ephiny stood with Xena and Gabrielle just outside the village and waved us over as soon as we appeared out of the forest.

"Niké," Ephiny began, "we need to talk with you." I frowned and started to protest since I had hoped for a little more time with Taya, but the Amazon stopped me. "It's ok, I'll wait at your hut," she said and I reluctantly agreed. I watched her walk away.

"The moon festival is the day after tomorrow," Gabrielle said as she, Ephiny and myself started to walk around the fields. Xena left us and headed back to the village. I glanced at the bard "I know that, why?"

"Xena and I are leaving a few days after that," I nodded, already suspecting that "and we were wondering what you are planning to do." the bard enquired.

I had expected a conversation like this and answered honestly, "I don't know ... I was planning on leaving as well but I don't know if I can. Not anymore". The Queen and Regent glanced at each other. It was the Ephiny who spoke first, "Let me guess, Taya?" I blushed hotly and suddenly, found my boots very interesting. They both chuckled.

"I've known Taya and her family my entire life. I've seen Taya grow into a beautiful woman. But I have never seen her as happy as she is when she is with you," Ephiny said seriously, "she would be very sad if you left."

"I know but I don't know what to do. I don't want to leave but I can't stay here either. I'm not an Amazon, I never will be" I said sadly.

Gabrielle smiled brightly, "Never say never. According to Amazon law, there are three ways to become an Amazon. The first and easiest way is to be born into an Amazon tribe. The second is to receive the 'right of cast' by another Amazon upon her death, that's how I became one. And the last is when you swear fealty to another Amazon. In other words, when you join with one before Artemis, you bow and surrender before her." The bard once again proved her astuteness.

My eyes widened as understanding dawned on me, "You want me to surrender? I'm a warrior!" Gabrielle shook her head, "Surrender isn't always a bad thing. To yield to someone you love and trust can be a beautiful thing. It joins both your heart and soul to your partner."

"But so soon … I don't know if Taya … I mean, she's so young. She deserves better than me." My eyes found the ground again.

"Taya will be 19 summers next spring. She's not as young as you might think, and not so innocent either." Ephiny chuckled. I murmured, "Tell me about it," recalling what happened earlier at the lake.

"Talk to her about it. She loves you, it's visible in her eyes," the bard laid a hand on my shoulder and I nodded, "and you would be a great Amazon. You are a fantastic warrior and a great teacher from what I've heard." Ephiny added, "I'd be proud to call you sister … and so will the others." I blushed from the genuine praise.

Internally, I had made my decision. But I needed to know one more thing. "Such a joining happens, oh, I don't know, at a moon festival, perhaps? Just a guess," my voice had a sarcastic tone but a grin was playing on my lips. Ephiny nodded, "You have two days."

I stared at both of them realising they were serious. I turned and ran back to the village. I passed Xena on my way and she smiled brightly at me, "Go get your woman!" she yelled after me.

Taya was waiting outside my hut. She looked at me strangely as I ran towards her. Without a word, I pulled her into the hut. "What the …" she started, "Is something wrong?" I shook my head, still trying to catch my breath. I sat down on my bed and pulled Taya down next to me. "Nothing's wrong," I finally said, "Gabrielle was just wondering what my plans were, that's all." I was suddenly at loss for more words.

"And what are they?" Taya asked hesitantly after a few moments. I gazed straight into her eyes. "That depends on your answer on something." The Amazon's confusion turned into complete surprise as I sank from the bed onto my knees. She started to speak but I quickly silenced her. I took the deepest breath of my life, hoping for the best.

"Taya, I don't really know what I'm doing here but I have to try. I know we haven't known each other for more than a few weeks but you have come to mean so much to me. And I know I'm probably not the right one to say this ... you deserve better than an old warlord, so if you say no I'll understand. But … what I'm trying to say is, euhm … Taya, daughter of Morien and Nyssa, will you join with me?" I closed my eyes, thinking how bad it must have sounded. I looked back up when I heard Taya say my name softly. Tears were falling from her eyes and I thought I had made a great mistake. She obviously sensed this and smiled through her tears before speaking.

"If this is just so you can become an Amazon, I'll kill you, otherwise, yes - I'll join with you," she said very seriously. I smiled meekly, "Really?" My smile turned into a grin when she nodded. I reached up and wiped the tears from her cheeks with my thumbs.

Taya gave a wicked push against my shoulders and pounced on me. I fell helplessly on my back with a smiling Amazon on top. We stared at each other in delight. "There's one problem though," Taya said and I frowned, "according to Amazon tradition, you must ask my mothers for permission first."

I turned pale and she chuckled, "Oh, c'mon. They're not THAT bad." She started to laugh and I joined in. Then, Taya leaned down and placed a kiss on my lips, followed by a more passionate kiss, followed by another heart-stopping and breathtaking one.

We laid there for long moments. Her head was on my shoulder as we tried to get our breathing under control and just enjoy the feeling. I closed my eyes and ran my hands through her hair. "I love you," I whispered.

Taya lifted her head and looked at me, beaming a sweet smile on her face. "I love you too, and not just because you're a good kisser." I winked at her, "So, you find me a good kisser?" Taya nodded and pressed her lips to mine. "The best," she murmured before turning the simple kiss into something much deeper and binding.

When it was over we got to our feet. "So, how about facing the family now?" I asked. Taya smiled and nodded. She took my hand and we left the hut. "You know, before we get there, there are a few things you should know …" Taya said to me and I listened carefully, thinking * I knew it! There had to be a catch! * as we headed towards the lioness' den …


I had now linked my life, my heart and my soul with Taya. I would never regret it. The conversation I had with her family was one I could never forget. Taya warned me of a few things. She told me that Nyssa was overprotective of her children and that I needed to earn her trust, but that Morien was very kind and gentle. She also said that they knew I saved Lyanna's life in the battle against my army. It would probably work to my advantage. Still, I wasn't very confident …


The longer we walked, the more nervous I felt. Taya had stopped talking some time ago and we were walking in silence towards the edge of the village. We approached two medium-sized huts standing together. Two figures were sparring in front, another sat watching. I soon recognised one of the sparring figures as Lyanna. The other person was taller with broad shoulders and had more muscle than me. She was formidable, even from a distance and I swallowed.

Suddenly, grey eyes spotted us and the taller one stopped the fight. Lyanna turned as well and I was struck by the resemblance between them. The only real difference was in their age and eyes. Nyssa had the same wavy blond hair as her daughter and fine lines surrounded her expressive grey eyes. She was beautiful and powerful, like Xena. The only flaw was a three inch scar on her cheek.

Taya ran towards her and Nyssa grinned when she jumped into her arms. I followed at a slower pace. Taya released Nyssa and hugged her sister, "Mom, this is Niké." I stepped up. Nyssa eyed me closely and then nodded a greeting. I did the same, noticing that the Amazon was about my height but with wider shoulders - She must be extremely strong.

Then Taya grabbed my hand again and pulled me towards the figure who sat watching. The woman stood up in a fluid movement. I could not be mistaken. She was the same height as Taya and had the same hair but it was peppered with grey at the sides. Her eyes were deep green and she had freckles around her nose, more than my love. This woman was a beauty. Only the grey at her temples bore witness to her age. Taya kissed the woman on the cheek. "Hey, mama." she greeted.

Morien smiled. "It's about time you showed yourself, young woman. You live next door and I hardly see you these days." Her eyes fell on me. "You must be the one called Niké," I nodded. "Well then, I have heard that you saved Lyanna's life during the battle. Thank you for that." She smiled.

I was not used to praise and waved it off. "No thanks needed."

Taya sensed my discomfort and saw Nyssa and Lyanna had joined us. "Mom, mama, we need to talk to you," she said. Nyssa lifted one eyebrow and glanced over at Morien who smiled and winked back. I knew there was something going on here. Lyanna smiled too and looked at her mothers. "I'm off to see Gale, ok? I was supposed to meet her sometime today for training." Nyssa nodded and Lyanna bounded off. The tall Amazon went to her bond-mate and kissed her softly.

Morien then looked at us, "Ok, speak … what's up?" Taya looked at me and so did her moms. I swallowed and looked down, my boot digging into the sand.

"Euhm …" I murmured and coughed, trying to find the right words. I took a deep breath and looked up, "I-I want to … euhm, ask you for … permission to j-join with your daughter," I stumbled over my words and silently cursed myself.

I glanced towards Morien who smiled brightly. Nyssa didn't looked so happy though. The warrior asked, "Why should I give my daughter's hand to the likes of you?" she said in a tone meant to impress. Taya glared at her, but Nyssa didn't notice or pretend she didn't.

Looking her straight in the eye, I vowed, "How about because I will love her until my dying day and beyond? That I will cherish her and protect her, today, tomorrow and every following day? That I will be her protector, her servant and her partner whenever she needs me? Is that enough reason?" I said, Nyssa didn't even blink. We stared at each other for several moments in a battle of wills.

"You speak with great passion, warrior. Are you sure you can follow up on your words?" she said.

"I don't know, but I will give it my all to try. I have to. Taya has become my only reason for existence. Without her I would wither away and die." I glanced towards Taya and saw tears falling from her eyes. She smiled at me and I smiled back.

Nyssa suddenly nodded and placed a hand on my shoulder. "I see no lies in your eyes. Welcome to the family!" With that, the tall Amazon broke into a huge grin. Taya jumped into my arms, I was too stunned to react at first. "How about the earning trust part?" I asked.

Nyssa laughed. "You already did that when you saved Lyanna's life on the battle field. I saw it happen, but I was to far away to help her." Morien hugged me. "We don't know what we would have done if you hadn't been there."

Morien started to chuckle. "Besides," the short huntress started, "we knew this was bound to happen. Lyanna has been following you two around and kept us informed." Taya and I blushed, causing Taya's moms to laugh harder. "Don't worry, she discreetly looked the other way when you two were busy exchanging spittle." That comment earned the warrior a playful slap in the stomach from her mate.

I groaned, Taya hid her head against my shoulder. Morien stepped forward and hugged both of us. "You have our blessing, Be happy." Taya's eyes shone with gratitude, "Thank you Mama."

A few moments later, we left. Nyssa and Morien waved and then disappeared into the hut. I sighed. It was done and it wasn't as bad as I expected.


The next two days were hectic, to say the least. I barely saw Taya as we were both busy helping with the preparations for the moon festival. Hunters went out during the day catching the necessary meat for the feast. The others build a makeshift stage at one end of the main square and many tables now stood lined up at the side, enough to seat at least fifty Amazons. They collected a massive amount of firewood for a huge bonfire that would burn through the night. The cooks worked well into the nights, preparing meat, vegetables, all kinds of drinks and pastries. I realised one thing, Amazons knew how to party and party big.


The night before the festival, I was lying in bed. I was tired physically from dragging wine barrels into the village the entire day, but still I couldn't sleep. I was too nervous thinking about events of tomorrow. There was a knock on my door and Nyssa stepped in. She grinned when she found me wide awake. "I knew you wouldn't be able to sleep. I couldn't either 20 years ago either," she said and sat in a chair next to my bed.

"Do you know anything about the festivities tomorrow?" she asked and I shook my head. She nodded. "I thought so. Must be quite scary, huh, not knowing what's in store for you. Let me tell you about it." I quickly sat up facing her, eager to learn.

"The festival starts just after midday when the queen gives a speech. She will then officially announce your joining in the evening. After that and till the evening, there are games and contests to keep busy. But you won't be joining them. An elder and two priestesses will prepare you for your joining. You'll be bathed, dressed, the whole lot. Taya as well. But you can't see her until the evening. It will be around sunset when you'll be taken to the square where you'll be joined in a ceremony. Then the bonfire will be lit and the real festival begins. Food, wine, music, everything … it ends when the sun comes up again the next morning, but not many last that long." She chuckled.

"Wow," I murmured and noticed the odd look on the older woman's face, "What?" I asked. She smiled and took something out of her pouch.

"There is another tradition with us Amazons." She handed the covered item to me. I was looking at a beautiful silver bracelet. The letters N and T were engraved into it, twisted together. I looked at Nyssa. She showed me her arm encircled by the same worn bracelet but with the letters N and M. "I have never taken this off in 20 years. It is said that if you destroy it, you destroy the bond in Artemis' eyes." Pointing to the one in my hand she said, "It's Taya's size. Morien gave her one in your size."

I looked at her and smiled in gratitude. "Thank you." Nyssa smiled back and stood to leave. "Get some sleep now. It's going to be a long day tomorrow." I nodded and she left. I fell on my back and stared at the bracelet, running my fingers over the engraved marking. I noticed the word 'FOREVER' engraved on the inside and smiled to myself. *Yeah, forever* and with that thought, I placed the bracelet safely next to me and closed my eyes.


Morning came quickly and I stepped out of the hut around dawn. I started my morning exercise with a run to the lake where I stopped, stretched and sat by the shore. The water was calm and I breathed in the fresh air. This was the day for me and I could already feel the nerves settling in my stomach. I sat in peace for long moments, before plunging my hands in the water and refreshing my face. Then I slowly made my way back to the village.

Life was slowly waking as more and more Amazons appeared, most heading to the training grounds for some exercise. Normally, I would spar but strangely, I wasn't in the mood for it today. So, I declined the offers and walked towards the food hut. I grabbed some fruit there and munched on it while sitting outside. I saw Xena head toward me.

The warrior sat next to me and stole an apple from my plate. "How are you feeling today?" the warrior asked.

"I don't know. Scared mostly but at the same time excited."

"That's normal. Do you know what will happen today?" I nodded. "Nyssa, Taya's mom, came to me last night. She told me."

"Usually, the father of the bride has a good talk with his future son-in-law the night before the wedding, Amazons improvise." She said with a smile. I smiled in understanding and finished my apple.

Around us, more and more people appeared and started to work on the final details. Xena brushed her hands. "C'mon, I believe there are more wine barrels to gather." I sighed and followed the warrior, "I moved dozens of those barrels yesterday. How much wine does one Amazon tribe need for a festival?" Xena laughed. "You'd be surprised."

We walked towards a large storage hut where the wine barrels were stacked. A few strong Amazons were already working and we joined in, carrying the barrels on our shoulder towards the square where they waited for nightfall.

A few candlemarks later, we were done. Xena excused herself to go and see if her bard hadn't gotten herself into trouble. I wandered over to the training grounds where I sat and watched some youngsters train until the sound of horns blew through the village. It signalled that the festival was about to begin.

I followed the youngsters towards the stage where Gabrielle, Ephiny and Xena waited. I saw Taya with her family on the right and walked over. "Hi," I said and Taya gave me one of those gorgeous smiles, "Hey … ready for this?" I nodded and faced the stage as the horns blew again. Now, the square was packed with Amazons, young and old alike.

"My sisters," Ephiny began and everyone fell silent, "We gather here today in honour of our great moon goddess, Artemis. Another year has passed and we have proven once again that we, the Amazons, are a force to be reckoned with. Through Artemis' blessing we are stronger than ever!"

The Amazons cheered and Gabrielle stepped forward and held up her hands to silence them. "But there is more than just the festival today. It has been a while but today we have a true joining of souls between the Amazon Taya and the warrior Niké, who will become one of us tonight" the Queen said and waved a smile in our direction. Once again, cheers came from the Amazons. Taya grabbed my hand, I whispered, "Love you".

Gabrielle continued "Two of our sisters have been assigned to help them prepare for their journey. For the rest … let the festival begin!" They cheered again and the assembly broke up. Several contests were about to start and everyone was eager to participate. Taya's family left as well, leaving us alone until two elders walked towards us. "I am Valyra and this is Tamera. I am here for the warrior," one of them said. The other one looked at Taya "And I am here for you." Both of them started to walk away in separate directions. "Come!" they ordered. I looked at Taya and quickly gave her a kiss. "See you tonight," I said. Taya nodded and gave me another lingering kiss. "Get on with it!" Valyra yelled and we broke up with a grin. Giving each other a last look, we followed the senior women.

Valyra led me towards my hut. Two guards stood outside and blocked the entrance after we walked in. The entire place was darkened by blankets that hung before the windows and everywhere candles were lit, casting a warm glow over the hut. The furniture was moved to the side to make place for a steaming bathtub. Two woman dressed in clothing that identified them as priestesses of Artemis stood waiting. Their hoods pulled far over their heads, making it impossible to recognise them. Valyra sat in a chair on the other side of the hut and nodded. They came towards me and started to remove my clothes, making me hump a little. "Relax," Valyra whispered, breaking the silence of the hut. I nodded slowly and they continued. Once I was naked, they led me to the tub and helped me step into the scented water. "Close your eyes," Valyra said softly and the priestesses started to wash me, ever so slowly.

I don't know how much time had passed as I was led to the bed and Valyra told me to lay down on my stomach. I did as I was told and flinched slightly as the priestess moved up the bed and straddled my legs. She poured warm oil from a vial onto my back and slowly started to massage the scented oil into my body. I never felt so relaxed as I did then.

It was over too soon as she moved from me and led me to the centre of the room and they slowly dressed me in the most beautiful Amazon clothing I have ever seen. It was dark brown and made of the softest leather. The skirt hung low on my hips, reaching my knees. The top, made from matching material, hugged my body tightly, leaving a good amount of skin and cleavage bare. A soft fingerless glove covering me till mid fore-arm was slowly fastened around my right arm, the detail in the leather must have been the most finest in Amazonia. They helped me step into new boots made of soft but strong leather. One tied them while the other fastened a medallion around my neck, an Artemis symbol. She also gave me a leather headband that kept my short dreadlocks from falling into my face.

When they finished, they bowed their heads which I copied and moved to stand against the far wall into the shadows. Valyra stepped towards me. The elder fastened a pouch against my skirt and showed me the bracelet. She placed it safely in the pouch and then faced me. "You are ready now. It's about to begin." I lifted my eyebrows in surprise. "Already?" I said, not realising how much time had passed. Valyra smiled. "It will be dark in less than a candlemark ... now, follow me."

I followed her to the square. All Amazonia stood silent in the square forming an aisle leading to the stage where Gabrielle, now in her Amazon leathers, stood together with Ephiny. Xena stood at her other side. Valyra walked between the Amazons and I followed her. Smiles greeted me from all sides and I nodded in acknowledgement. Valyra left me standing in front of the stage and then disappeared into the crowd. Taya's family greeted me with waves from where they stood on the front line. Then someone blew the horn again.

I turned to look down the aisle and was sure I had to pick up my jaw from the sight that greeted me. Taya slowly walked towards me. I thought she looked like a goddess. Her wavy, auburn hair was curled slightly and framed her face beautifully. Her clothing was similar to mine, only in a lighter shade. The skirt hung lower and she had no glove on her right hand and arm, but many colourful ribbons adorned her arm. The vision was enhanced by the early sunset colouring the sky soft red. It was simply heart-stopping!

She stopped before me, "Close your mouth, love, you'll catch flies," she whispered. I snapped my mouth shut and grinned. "You are beautiful," I whispered back. She smiled shyly, "So are you."

Gabrielle stepped forward and waved us up onto the stage. When we stood before her, facing each other, the Queen of the Amazons began.

"Sisters, we stand here before Artemis as witnesses to a bond between these two women. A bond formed by love and the joining of souls." She addressed me. "Niké, your turn." I nodded and took a deep breath.

"Taya, before I met you, I was merely a shell from what I am today. I never knew love until you came into my life and filled me with it. I know that I will never let anything come between us, not even death … because even then, we will still be together. I know that and I'll fight for it with all my heart and strength." I grabbed the bracelet from my pouch and held it up. "Like a ring, it is round and has no beginning and no end … accept it as a token of my love for you." I took Taya's left arm and fastened the bracelet. Then I brought my hand to her face and wiped her tears away.

"Gods, Niké, I didn't know you were so good with words." Taya said with a sweet smile as she wiped her last tears away before taking a deep breath and starting on her own vows.

"The day you came here was one of the best moments in my life. You became my mentor and my friend. And I don't really know when it turned into love, just that it did and I don't regret it one bit. You are the sweetest, gentle and most noble person I know, even if you deny it. But you are a thief, because you stole my heart … know that I don't want it back." She reached into her pouch and pulled out the bracelet. "Accept this as a token of my love for you … a love that will last forever." She fastened the bracelet on my left arm. I felt a tear falling from my eye and Taya quickly wiped it away.

Gabrielle gave us a moment and then grabbed both our hands and brought then together between her own. "Then, in front of Artemis herself and by the authority given to me, I now bind you." She looked up to the crowd. "Anyone have a problem with that?" she said loudly and chuckles were heard but no one protested. "Very well then," Ephiny handed her a piece of leather and she bound our hands loosely together, "you may now kiss each other," Gabrielle said happily. I slowly brought my lips down to meet Taya's for a soft, lingering kiss. Cheers erupted around us.

The Queen silenced everyone again by lifting her hands. "That's not all. By this joining, the warrior named Niké now has a chance of becoming a true Amazon of Amazonia." She turned to me and I nodded. Taya smiled up at me and carefully slipped the leather rope from my hand, placed a kiss in it's place and then stepped of the stage. "Kneel, warrior" Gabrielle said and I did, looking up at the queen. "Do you swear fealty to this Amazon tribe? Will you give your loyalty to your queen and sisters in times of need? Dare you say, with Artemis as witness, that your hart truly lies here and that you are willing to place the good of the tribe before your own desires at all times?" Her green eyes seemed to be able to look into my soul and I held her gaze before saying, "I do … My life is here, my sisters are my family and I will let nothing take that away." Gabrielle motioned me to stand up. "Welcome to the tribe, sister" she said. Howls and battle cries were heard as the crowd cheered. I felt it deep inside. They had accepted me! I jumped off the stage and into Taya's arms.

Two guards carrying torches stepped towards us and handed them to us. "Go on, light the bonfire and start the feast" Gabrielle said. Taya and I walked the ten yards to the huge pile of wood. Hand in hand through the crowd that parted before us. I received slaps on my back from many warriors who greeted me as a sister of the tribe.

We tossed the torches onto the pile of wood and in moments, the pile of oil soaked wood burned brightly. Howls reverberated around us. Taya jumped into my arms with a joyous scream. I held her close, burying my head in her hair. "I love you, Taya". She nodded, "I know … and I love you too." We kissed deeply.

The party was in progress and the young ones were hustled to bed after they had something to eat. Food was brought out by the cooks, wine barrels uncorked, music and dancers appeared. Taya and I grabbed a plate of food and took a seat at the end of one of the huge tables. I barely knew what was happening around me. Only this magnificent woman nestled on my lap mattered at this moment. We fed each other pieces of the delicious food and drunk some of the sweet, but extremely potent, Amazon wine. Taya, being the tease that she is, sucked on my fingers each time I fed her. It was torture, pure sweet torture!

Soon the plate was empty and Taya asked me to dance. "But I can't dance," I protested. Taya smiled sweetly, a look that meant trouble, and hopped off my lap. She grabbed my hand and pulled me closer to the fire. "Stand here," she said and she moved before me. "You taught me how to fight this way, remember?" I nodded mutely as she pressed her back against me. "It's basically the same thing … you have to feel the music." Taya stretched her arms over her head and made me do the same by grasping my hands. Her head fell back against my chest and she closed her eyes. I did the same. She stared to move her body with the slow beat of the Amazon drums, her body guiding mine.

I had some serious problems with my control over my own body. Taya's body rubbing against mine was arousing me. I lowered my head to rest in her hair and moaned. I could see her bite her lip in reaction. She felt it too. Taya released me and turned in my arms. She placed her head on my chest and grabbed me tightly. We danced like this for long moments, ending it when I stepped on Taya's feet for about the dozenth time. "Nope, dancing is not for you," she said and we laughed. We walked back to our seat and sat down, Taya taking her place in my lap again.

We watched the celebration, shared some more wine and food and talked, between kissing. It was well past midnight as some of the party-goers retired for the night. A few warriors laid passed-out on and around the tables where their comrades placed them. This included the weapon master, Eponin, an Amazon I became good friends with after I stopped stealing weapons from the weaponry. They would have one hell of a headache in the morning. I felt the wine getting to me some hours ago and switched to juice, wanting to be clear headed and remember this whole evening. Taya went off dancing a few times too, her body gyrating to the beats. I know many fellow Amazons envied me because she was mine.

There was also much coupling going on, more than before. Xena, who now sat besides me since her bard wanted to dance, said that most young Amazons liked company on a night like this. I nodded in understanding. Earlier, I saw Taya's sister retiring with a pretty brunette. And obviously that rule also worked for royalty. Ephiny was seated a few tables away and was heavily involved with the guard, Solari.

Suddenly, Xena tapped my shoulder and when I looked at her, I saw her stare at something. Following her look, my mouth went completely dry as I saw Taya and Gabrielle dance together. They slowly swayed towards us, their bodies moving sensually with the beat of the drums. When they reached us, Taya crawled on my lap and Gabrielle on Xena's. Taya kissed me long and hungrily, making me forget everything around me. When we finally broke up and gasping for air, I saw Xena laying on her back on the bench with the little, but obviously not so innocent, bard on top of her. When the bard finally released her warrior, Xena stood up and swooped the bard up in her arms. "We'll be retiring," she said hastily and Xena walked away, carrying a laughing bard with her.

Taya moved in for another kiss, softer and slower than before. When I opened my eyes again, she was looking at me. I looked into her eyes and saw something there I hadn't seen in anyone's eyes for a long time, desire. "Why don't we retire too?" she said, her voice a sultry tone. I swallowed and nodded mutely. Taya stood up and pulled me with her. We headed to my hut.

A soft glow came from within. The furniture had been replaced and the bed was covered with soft skins. Lit scented candles and small vials of oil were left on the bedside. Taya came towards me and kissed me while slowly pulling me towards the bed. I hesitated. "What's wrong?" she asked softly. "I have never done this before."

Taya chuckled softly. "You're not telling me that you're still a virgin, right? Cause I don't believe that." I shook my head. "No, I … slept with a few during my daughter of a warlord years … but I never loved anyone before."

Taya smiled joyfully, "That's so sweet," she said and then sensually walked towards the bed, sat down and removed her boots. I stared, there was nothing more I could do. "Come here," Taya said and patted the place next to her. With clumsy feet, I obeyed. She reached down and untied my boots, slipping them off my feet. Then ran a hand down my jaw line, like she did when we shared our first kiss. She tangled her hand in my hair and pulled my head down towards her for a kiss. She let herself fall on her back and pulled me on top of her. I lost control and deepened the kiss, running my hands over her body.

Suddenly, I stopped and pressed my face into her neck with a sigh. "What are you afraid of?" she asked between breaths. I wondered how it was that she knew me so well. "I don't want to hurt you" I murmured and could feel her smile. "You won't hurt me … besides, I don't break so easily." I looked into her eyes and saw raw desire clearly written there. It mirrored my own.

I nodded and reclaimed her lips. Our hands started to move over the other's body and we slowly removed our clothes. We moaned simultaneous when bare skin met for the first time and our kisses escalated into something much deeper, filled with passion and want. She ran her short nails over my back as my rough, calloused fingertips stroked her sides and breasts.

Slowly, I took her higher, teasing her with my fingers and running my tongue all over her body. She tasted so good! Soon I had her at her peak. "Please Niké … Gods … let me …" she begged and I let her go with a few skilled touches. She screamed my name and when it was over, I crawled up her body and cradled her in my arms. "I love you," I whispered in her ear and she looked up at me. "I love you too … and I'll prove it to you if you give me a minute," she said, still catching her breath.

"You have all the time in the world."

She lifted an eyebrow. "Cant wait that long … want you now!" with that said, she pounced on me and covered my lips in a heated and passionate kiss. "You'll scream for me," she said, and after a moment scream I did …

I woke up to the rays of the sun on my face. A weight was on my chest and I smiled down at the tousled head of my love. Soft snores filled the room. I felt sore, but pleasantly so. I was surprised to find myself still in bed after the sun was up and still feeling tired. But we barely had a few hours sleep. I looked down again and saw sleepy green/violet eyes watching me. "Good morning," I said softly with a smile. Taya smiled too and moved up to place a soft kiss on my lips. "Normally, I hate mornings, but with you it's looking extremely good."

She started to place small kisses on my neck. "You know, we'd better get up," I said, not really meaning it. Taya moaned "I don't feel like getting up."

I smiled, "You know anything better to do, then?" I teased. Taya answered by licking my ear, making me moan. We didn't get out of bed till much later …


Everyone was working hard to get the village back in order. Some found the morning after the festival not too pretty. I found Eponin resting out of the sun when I walked through the village. In her hand was a mug of foul smelling brew. I quickly recognised it as a special tea Saras brewed for hangovers. Chuckling, I made my way towards the square.

"Look who's still alive," Xena said as I walked over to where the warrior was tearing down the stage, "where's your other half?"

I grinned and grabbed a beam to carry it back to the wood hut. "She's taking a bath" I said. Xena lifted an eyebrow "And you are here, why?" I chuckled as I shouldered the heavy beam. "I felt like helping … we slept the entire morning away." Xena grabbed a beam as well and we made our way to the side of the village where we dumped the wood for other Amazons to place inside. I shook my head. Amazons really had huts for everything, even for firewood.

We worked for about two candlemarks until the stage was completely broken up and the wood safely stored. I felt the hair on the back of my neck rise and instinctively knew Taya was coming up behind me. I turned, just in time to catch her as she jumped at me. "How did you know?" she asked, pouting her lower lip. I found that too cute and kissed her. "I felt you," I told her, "what've you been up too?" I set her back on her feet.

Taya smiled, "I visited my moms … mom had way to much to drink last night and is paying for it dearly. Mama just can't stop teasing her about it" she chuckled. Then she looked a little pensive. "I haven't seen Lyanna though, Mama said that she's been out with Gale the entire day." I smiled, "Gale doesn't happen to be an average height brunette with tanned skin and feathers in her hair, right?" Taya nodded. "I saw them leave the feast last night … they looked extremely cosy." Taya smiled and murmured 'finally'.

I laughed, Xena too. "I guess both sisters will be taken soon," the warrior said. I looked at her "What? You interested?" Xena's eyes widened before she grinned wickedly, "Nope, I have a bard. Much better than a warrior, or a hunter," she said. The three of us started to laugh.

"I better go find that bard … we have to prepare to leave tomorrow," Xena said before setting off to look for her erstwhile partner.

Taya stepped closer to me for a hug. "I'll miss them," she said sadly. "Me too." I agreed. We stood silent for a few moments, until I stepped back with a grin. "How about a swim?" I asked. Taya nodded happily.

"Race ya!" she yelled and barely had the words spoken when she sped off. I shook my head, "A tease and a cheater … you've got to love her," I murmured and gave chase.

My legs were longer so I quickly caught up with her. We undressed and jumped in the sun warmed water. We played for candlemarks, teasing each other and making love under the slowly setting sun. Afterwards, we walked to the chow hut and shared a meal, much like the night before. We went for a walk under the stars and then headed off to bed.


When I woke the next day, it was just after dawn. I was still tired, much sleep wasn't to be had for now. Taya was nestled on my chest again and I lightly played with her hair. I remembered wondering how it would feel the first time I saw her. It was softer than I had imagined. After a few moments, Taya stirred and blurry eyes opened. "Morning," she murmured and yawned. I smiled and placed a soft kiss on her lips. "Good morning, my love." Taya laid her head back down and we enjoyed this feeling for a few more moments. "We have to get up … Xena will be leaving soon," I said, breaking the silence. Taya nodded.

We quickly washed up and dressed. A few Amazons had already gathered at the gates when we arrived. The stable master was saddling Argo while Xena looked through the saddlebags to make sure they didn't forget anything. Gabrielle was talking to Ephiny. We made our way over to them.

Xena fastened the bags to the saddle and motioned to Gabrielle that they were ready. The bard nodded and hugged Ephiny. "Be safe, my Queen," the Regent said and Gabrielle nodded. I saw tears in their eyes.

Then she came over to us and hugged us both while Xena said her goodbyes to Ephiny. "Take care, Taya, Niké," she said.

I smiled. "Thank you Gabrielle … for everything." The bard stood aside, letting Xena come forward. The warrior hugged Taya first and then stood before me. She held out her arm and I took it in a warrior handshake. Then she pulled me into a hug.

"Thank you, Xena." I said softly, "By rescuing me from those bandits, you saved my life … by bringing me here, you saved my soul. I can never thank you enough." Taya moved next to me and placed her arm around me.

Xena walked towards Argo and mounted the golden horse. "I have a feeling we'll meet again someday, Amazon" she said to me, "until then." With that, she reached down and pulled the bard onto the horse behind her. Xena whistled and they moved out. "Yeah, until we meet again" I whispered after her and smiled down at Taya. I cocked my head and Taya nodded. Hand in hand, we walked back into the village and into a new life.


Life was good. In the following months, we built a hut next to Taya's parents. I became a teacher and from dawn to noon, I tried to teach youngsters the art of war. I loved it, but not more than I loved Taya. Every morning was heaven, waking up next to an angel. And I was not the only one with an angel close to me. One day, Lyanna announced that she would join with Gale at the next festival.

Yep, life was very good ... and I'd like to say that it stayed that way. But it didn't. My story doesn't end here. It had barely begun.

But I will take a short break. All this writing has tired this old body of mine. And this scroll is almost full anyway. I'll have to send one of my daughters to get me a new one from the market. Yes, I said daughters but you'll learn more about that some other time. So it's farewell for now … see ya next time!


The end … not really


The story of victory
By Bacchuskiller
© August 2004

Continued in The Next Generation.