Subtext: Loving relationship/intimacy between two consenting adult women. Nothing graphic, just a lot of mushy stuff. If this is offensive to you, or you are under age, don't read any further.

Author's Notes: No bunnies, bottoms, or bards were harmed in the making of this story. Seek proper medical attention when treating any chronic condition. All is in good fun as my Xena obsession continues.

Feedback (be nice) always welcome: cjamazon@yahoo.com

The leather clad warrior princess proudly rode atop her cream colored mare as the blond bard walked wearily beside her. It was a beautiful day in central Greece. The sun shone high, and the sky was blue and cloudless.

The inseparable duo had been traveling the Greek countryside for days. They were both getting hot, tired, and cranky. Especially Xena, who did not seem at all thrilled to be riding on Argo. For days they had tried to stop at an inn, but the better looking ones were booked, and the sleazier looking ones, well... Xena wouldn't even let Gabrielle go near them. It's not that Xena ever denied Gabrielle a night at an inn (she never denied her bard anything), but it had to be suitable for an Amazon princess. Under sky accomodations were taking its toll on both warrior and bard. And each longed for a bed and bath.

Every inn from Athens to Amphipolis was booked. Gabrielle had warned Xena that summer was not the best time for traveling-- so many festivals, so little accomodations. Xena sighed at the fact that the bard had been right. The warrior looked at her bard with loving, blue eyes.

How do you know about these summer festivals, bard? Xena thought to herself and then raised a dark eyebrow unseen by the bard. Must be leaving her too long in the Amazon village library. Yep, she's probably already read every scroll in there. Even the ones I don't want her to read!

Xena smiled to herself and then winced from being in discomfort.

The warrior princess shifted slightly in the saddle and commented to Argo that summers in Greece were getting much warmer. Almost confirming that fact was the increasing dampness between her bronzed thighs. And it wasn't the kind of moisture that occurred when she thought about a certain bard! With her feet firmly anchored in the stirrups, Xena slightly lifted herself off the saddle to allow some air to pass between her thighs and the leather saddle. When she did this movement, leather pulling away from leather made an odd noise. She looked quickly at Gabrielle, who seemed to be oblivious to everything right now. Xena rode that way for awhile until her legs began to ache. Well, that was a pretty stupid idea, thought Xena. No breeze. The warrior princess eased back in the saddle . After awhile, the moisture began to collect once again between firm, bronzed thighs. And Xena just shrugged her shoulders and shook her head.

Gabrielle emphatically poked her staff into the ground at each step. Twenty four days, the young bard repeatedly muttered to herself. I warned her there'd be no rooms available, but does she ever listen to me? We could have stayed in Amphipolis or with the Amazons for awhile. But nooo... Gabrielle shook her head. My beautiful warrior princess has a roaming spirit. Gabrielle glanced up at Xena. I wonder what she'd look like naked on Argo, riding bareback, Gabrielle thought to herself as a wicked grin curved up at the corner of her mouth.

Xena shifted uncomfortably in the saddle again and thought, I wonder what it would be like to ride naked, bareback. Well, at least you'd be a lot cooler, warrior. Xena just shook her head and continued her shifting.

The bard continued her naked Xena musings until that overgrown rock just jumped out in front of her. Gabrielle stumbled, but managed to keep herself from falling. She looked at the mighty warrior princess who seemd to be in her own little world. Xena shifted back and forth in the saddle. Why does she keep doing that, the bard asked herself. She's been doing that a lot the last couple of days. Gabrielle hung her head and sighed. The bard contemplated on how she was going to ask the ex-warlord turned warrior princess all for the greater good... what was bothering her.

Not being able to stand it anymore, Xena jumped off Argo and stretched her legs. The warrior stretched to her full height, but not without noticing 'that look' by her favorite bard. Oooh, yeah, she wants me bad, Xena thought as she absentmindedly licked her lips. She gave her bard a wicked smile and Gabrielle thought she would melt.

Looking straight ahead, the tall dark one walked beside the bard. She looks so sad, Xena thought as she glanced at Gabrielle. A sympathetic look crossed Xena's face. Need to cheer up my bard.

Xena, now sporting a full grin, playfully put a strong arm around Gabrielle's shoulder and pulled her close.

"How's it going, bard?" Xena asked in a deep voice as she looked into Gabrielle's intense green eyes, then released her.

"Fine, Xena. How's it going with you?" Gabrielle asked a bit depressed.

"Oh, just peachy, Gabrielle," Xena said a bit sarcastically.

"Mmph. I'd say. There was a lot going on when you were riding on Argo." Gabrielle said getting slightly perturbed.

"Gabrielle, it's not anything like that," Xena said in a soft tone while becoming slightly embarrassed. Only her bard could bring out feelings in her no one else could.

"It's just that I...I have this little problem," the mighty warrior said quietly out of the corner of her mouth. She hated to admit she ever had any kind of problem. She was, after all, the problem solver.

Gabrielle looked up at Xena with concerned green eyes. "What is it, Xena? You know you can tell me anything, right?" The bard leaned in closer to the warrior, gave her a friendly nudge, and continued.

"Besides, we're lovers now. Your problem is my problem. There's no problem we can't solve together. Got it, my warrior." It was not a question, but an order.

"Yes, my bard," Xena replied meekly, smiling at her new lover. They had only become intimate in the last few moons, but the bard always had her heart. Xena had never felt closer to anyone in her life than to Gabrielle. She only knew Gabrielle for a little over a year now, but the warrior had loved the young bard ever since they first met.

Xena leaned in closer to the bard and whispered. "Chafing."

"Chafing? Gabrielle questioned.

"Yeah, you know friction between my..." Xena was cut off abruptly by the bard.

"I know, Xena. Doesn't surprise me since you wear a leather thong all day," Gabrielle wanted to

laugh outloud, but instead spared Xena's feelings.

"Gabrielle!"

"It's okay, Xena. It's not contagious."

"I know that, Gabrielle. I'm just a little embarrassed." Xena breathed a sigh of relief. It actually felt good to share this with the bard.

"Don't be. My sister had it as a baby. It's just a rash between yours thighs and on your bottom."

"I never had this before. How do I get rid of it?"

"Well, first, your inner parts have to breathe."

"Huh?"

"You know, don't wear the leather thong for a few days."

"I can't do that, Gabrielle. I'd be naked under this leather skirt. What if I had to flip or something?" Xena's voice was sounding panicky.

Gabrielle thought for a moment. That wouldn't be seem so bad.

"But, Xena, if we find an inn, we can stay for a few days and I can take care of you."

"Gabrielle, it's not like I'm sick."

"Yeah, but it'd sure be fun taking care of you," Gabrielle smiled at that.

"Mmhmm," the warrior replied as she raised a dark eyebrow at the glowing bard.

"Besides, we can pick up some healing ointment in the next town. Okay?" The bard tried hard to be sympathetic.

The warrior smiled at the young bard and then changed the subject.

"I'm starting to get hungry. Any bards here getting hungry?" Xena playfully teased Gabrielle.

A big grin appeared on Gabrielle's face.

"Okay, bard. We've got olives, cheese, and bread. Let's find a clearing where we can relax and camp for the night." Xena said.

"No nutbread?" The bard hoped the answer would be yes.

"Sorry, Gabrielle. It's not like I carry around an easy bake oven in Argo's saddle bags," Xena teased the bard. A smile crossed the warrior's lips as she remembered the bard's love of nutbread.

Suddenly, Xena stopped dead in her tracks, cocked her head, and backhanded the bard's chest bringing her to a full stop.

"What is it?" the bard asked in a whisper.

The warrior's eyes widened, then narrowed.

"Shhh, listen," Xena said barely above a whisper. The warrior then stepped behind Gabrielle and leaned in closer with her mouth positioned at the bard's ear. Gabrielle could feel the intense heat eminating from her warrior. The bard flushed. The warrior noticed.

Now's not a good time to get romantic, thought Gabrielle.

"Gabrielle, pay attention," the warrior whispered sternly.

"What do you hear, Gabrielle?" Xena asked, still whispering.

"Running water," the bard replied.

"Very good, little one. You'll be rewarded for your efforts later on," Xena said as she patted the top of Gabrielle's head. "Come on, this way."

Xena led Gabrielle and Argo toward the sound of the water. They came upon a clearing and two sets of eyes gazed in awe at the most beautiful sight either one had ever seen. A small waterfall plunged its way gracefully down from a high cliff into a clear pool of sparkling blue water. Warrior and bard sighed in amazement at the sight before them. Without thinking, they each sought each other's hand and simultaneously squeezed gently.

"Xena, it's beautiful," the bard exclaimed. "Did you know about this place?"

"No," Xena replied. "It's just as beautiful a surprise to me too."

Xena's hand left Gabrielle's hand, slid behind the bard's back, and made its way to Gabrielle's neck. As Xena gently massaged the back of Gabrielle's neck, she thought of only one other sight more beautiful than the one before her. Xena turned to face Gabrielle. She gazed down at her soulmate with loving blue eyes. Overcome by the moment, the warrior closed her eyes and sweetly kissed her bard. Gabrielle deepened the kiss until she heard Argo whinny and snort in her ears. Gabrielle broke the kiss, and turned to look at Argo. She'd swear on a stack of dinars that Argo did that on purpose.

"I told you she doesn't like me, Xena." The bard was annoyed.

"Nah, she likes you. She's just jealous because you're a better kisser."

"Xena!" the bard exclaimed.

"And cuter."

Gabrielle began to blush.

Xena walked up to Gabrielle and affectionately caressed her cheek.

"And, my love, you provide much better company at night." Xena smiled.

Gabrielle, smitten by Xena's action, stood firmly with her eyes closed as Xena continued caressing the bard's cheek. Then suddenly, the large, soft hand was gone and Gabrielle heard her warrior walk away.

"Except on those nights when you talk too much and I can't hear myself sharpening my sword," Xena teased.

Gabrielle put her arms to her side and clenched her fists. Her eyes remained closed.

"You better be running warrior, 'cause when this bard catches up with you, she won't be talkin'." Gabrielle teased back.

"Oooh, like I'm so scared," Xena sassed the bard.

Xena heard Gabrielle running after her and turned around. With arms wide open, Xena anticipated the bard jumping into her arms. Gabrielle found Xena's waiting arms and in one fluid motion, Xena spun them around in circles. They spun and laughed for awhile until the bard couldn't take it anymore.

"Xena!" the bard cried out.

"Gabrielle!" Xena mimicked.

Xena kept spinning around as if she were an amusement park ride. (Amazon Carousel?)

Oooh, this don't feel so good anymore, thought Gabrielle.

"XENA!" Gabrielle now yelled at the top of her lungs.

Xena slowed down and stopped. She grabbed the bard's shoulders and with a concerned look on her face asked, "What is it, Gabrielle?"

"I thought I was gonna be sick."

"Well, you shouldn't have eaten so much at lunch. I don't know where you put it all."

"We were spinning awfully fast, Xena."

"I'm sorry, Gabrielle." Xena's voice was soft and low.

Xena put an arm around Gabrielle's shoulder.

"How 'bout we take a swim, okay?"

Gabrielle nodded. "Kay."

"Xena?" Gabrielle questioned softly.

"Yes?"

"Can we find an inn soon. I don't particularly like bathing with fish ya know."

Xena laughed and held her bard close.

"Of course, Gabrielle. Tomorrow were headed toward Larissa. We'll see what's there."

"Thank you, Xena," Gabrielle said quietly and hugged back.

"By the way, Xena. How's the chafing?" the bard asked earnestly as she looked up to gaze into soft, blue eyes.

"Just fine, Gabrielle. Come on, let's go take that swim."

Right now, her 'problem' was the last thing on the warrior's mind. She just needed to be with her bard. Their relationship was just beginning and Xena wanted to relish in every aspect of it.

The soulmates swam and explored until dusk. The enjoyed each other's company, as well as their bodies. Gabrielle laughed and laughed as Xena would swim underwater near her legs. Then Gabrielle would suddenly be lifted out of the water and sitting on Xena's shoulders. At various intervals, Xena would yell 'take off' and the bard would push off Xena's shoulders and dive into the water.

An exhausted Gabrielle broke the water's surface and inhaled heavily.

"Xena," the bard gasped. "I'm getting awfully tired."

"Come on, Gabrielle. I'm just getting started. And this water is doing wonders for my chafing."

"I know Xena, but my...uh...lungs, aren't as big as yours." Gabrielle unconsciously licked her lips.

Gabrielle pointed to Xena's anatomy in question.

Xena just rolled her eyes.

"Okay, Gabrielle. I'm gettin' kind of pruney anyway."

Xena emerged from the water gracefully and sensually, her back to Gabrielle. She slung back her long black hair and water dispersed in every direction. Gabrielle observed this scene as if the whole thing were happening in slow motion. Staring at Xena's backside, the bard began to sweat. Xena sauntered to the shoreline as her hips swayed back and forth. Gabrielle's mouth fell open.

I bet she doesn't even know she does that, the bard thought as she wiped drool from the corner of her mouth. Gabrielle dove back into the water to cool off. When she emerged, Xena was already dried off and putting on a clean shift. Gabrielle walked to the shore where she quickly dried off and dressed. She then proceeded with her nightly ritual of setting up camp.

Xena and Gabrielle ate in a comfortable silence that only two soulmates could achieve. They sat together on a log that Xena had dragged over from the forest. As Gabrielle popped the last olive into her mouth, she secretly wished she had some nutbread. She looked over to Xena, who by this time had moved over to the rock built for one, and was unsheathing her sword. Xena 'wore' the warrior look as her mind focused on the task before her. Xena positioned the sword between her legs and with such ease began to sharpen the blade with her whetstone. Gabrielle had always been amazed when Xena sharpened her sword. Skill and grace appeared in each stroke of the whetstone. Gabrielle sat up and went to kneel in front of her favorite warrior.

"Hi," Gabrielle said shyly.

"Hi yourself," Xena replied stoically, never looking at Gabrielle.

Gabrielle noticed that Xena's warrior mode kicked in.

"Is your chafing any better?"

"Yes."

"Did you do what I said to earlier?"

"Uh huh."

The bard reached between Xena's legs, lifted the warrior's shift, and peeked. At that moment, Xena stopped the task at hand, and raised a dark eyebrow at Gabrielle.

"See anything you like?" Xena responded in a deep, seductive tone.

Gabrielle quickly released Xena's shift and turned her head so Xena couldn't see the embarrassment in green eyes. Xena stopped sharpening her sword, sheathed it, and laid it by her side; she never took her eyes off Gabrielle.

"Definitely." Gabrielle swallowed hard.

Xena got up and went to lay on her bed.

"Come here," she purred.

Gabrielle scurried over to lay beside Xena. She slid up Xena's body until her head rested on a strong shoulder. The bard slipped her arm around Xena's waist and squeezed. Xena heard the bard's relaxing breath. The warrior lifted her head and looked at Gabrielle. The bard gazed up and looked into the softest blue eyes she'd ever seen. Then, a carnal look overtook the warrior's face. Gabrielle smiled and climbed on top of Xena. The soulmates smiled at each other as Gabrielle captured the warrior's lips. And Xena forgot all about her chafing... for a little while.

The next morning, Gabrielle awoke to the smell of frying fish. She sat half way up, her green eyes trying to adjust to the morning light. One eye fluttered open, then the other.

"Morning, Gabrielle," Xena said pleasantly.

"Morning, Xena," Gabrielle replied sleepily. The bard stood up, then stretched and yawned.

"You're cooking breakfast?" Gabrielle asked in amazement.

"Yeah, I have many skills. Why?"

"Usually, you can't even find the frying pan."

"Fun-ny," Xena replied with a smirk.

Xena handed a plate of fish to the hungry bard and then fixed one for herself. The warrior then sat next to Gabrielle who was sitting on the log.

"Bard?"

"Warrior?"

"I figure if we get moving soon, we can be in Larissa by mid afternoon. Argo's already saddled and ready to go. Maybe there's an available inn."

The bard finished eating and set her plate down beside her. Xena looked at Gabrielle, amazed at how the bard could eat so fast. Does she ever taste her food? Xena wondered. Except for nutbread, Xena didn't think so.

"You know, Xena, I heard about Larissa. They say they have a huge marketplace there. Oooh, and I wonder if they'll have nutbread. Mmmm. You know how much I love nutbread. That reminds me of that time when you and I..."

As the bard rambled on, Xena finished eating then nodded and smiled at Gabrielle. She loved it when the bard talked. The special story moments were reserved only for the warrior. And Xena welcomed them. It was the soothing sound of Gabrielle's voice that Xena loved so much. Xena picked up their empty plates and walked towards the pool of water; the bard happily walked and talked behind her. The leather princess squatted and cleaned their plates. A wide grin crossed the warrior's face as she remembered the events of last night. Gabrielle was still talking as Xena turned to face her. A strong arm encircled Gabrielle's small waist as Xena pulled Gabrielle down on top of her.

"I love you, Gabrielle," Xena said, still wearing the biggest grin the bard had ever seen.

"I love you, Xena." Gabrielle had never been so happy as when she was with Xena. But, Xena suddenly became overzealous and hugged the tiny bard closer to her body.

"Xe...na?" the bard mumbled.

"Yes, my little bard? Keeper of my heart. Fueler of my fire. Solicitor of my desire. Caretaker of my..."

"XE..NA!" the bard gasped.

"Oh, I'm sorry Gabrielle. I just forget my own strength sometimes."

Gabrielle climbed off Xena a little frazzled. Although she would never admit it, the bard truly enjoyed their rough housing, even when it did get a little rough. Gabrielle began to primp her blond locks. She had to be presentable for her dark haired companion, after all.

An evil grin curled up on Xena's lips as she looked at Gabrielle. Maybe I can get her to ride Argo and keep my mind off this chafing, Xena thought slyly.

"Gabrielle. Are you ready to go?" Xena asked in a husky voice.

"Yes, I just need my staff."

"Come here, Gabrielle."

Xena placed her strong hands on Gabrielle's soft shoulders and looked lovingly into bright green eyes. The warrior spoke softly. "Remember when I said that we'd be in Larissa by mid afternoon?"

Gabrielle nodded.

"It means you'll have to ride Argo."

"Oh no, Xena. You know she doesn't like me."

Argo snorted. Xena raised a dark eyebrow at the mare. Argo dropped her head as if she understood.

"See, Xena. I told you," the bard said, slightly hurt. What did she care if a horse didn't like her. Being with Xena was the important thing. Okay, then, why did she feel hurt.

"Gabrielle. She just teases you because she likes you."

"We are talking about a horse, right?"

"I told you are Argo was different."

"Uh huh." Gabrielle walked away to pick up her staff. She knew this was a losing battle and she was going to ride Argo whether she liked it or not. But, she'd only do it to please Xena.

Xena mounted Argo and held out her hand to Gabrielle. Gabrielle just stood there building up courage. A pout appeared on Xena's bottom lip and in a very soft voice she said 'please'. Xena gave Gabrielle such a sad look that the bard thought the warrior would cry. Gabrielle accepted Xena's hand.

"In front," Xena ordered.

Gabrielle sat in front of her warrior clearly perplexed. She had never been in this position before, she had always sat behind Xena. Xena leaned forward and grabbed Argo's reins.

"Relax," Xena whispered. "Hold on to the saddle horn."

"YAH," Xena commanded. Argo immediately began a trot.

It was a beautiful morning as the dynamic duo headed toward Larissa. Gabrielle admired the beauty around them while Xena thought of ways to keep her mind off the chafing. The fresh, sweet smell of Gabrielle's hair was distracting Xena. The warrior inhaled deeply through her nose the scent that could only be Gabrielle. Xena exhaled slowly, and briefly closed her eyes to enjoy the sensation. Then she edged Argo to a slow gait.

"Let's play, Gabrielle. That game you made up, who it is."

"Mmm, male or female?" Gabrielle asked.

"Definitely female." The warrior licked her lips as she stared at Gabrielle.

"Friend of foe?" The questioning continued.

"Both," the stoic warrior replied.

The bard thought for a moment. She then suddenly felt a large hand encircle her waist. Gabrielle shuddered slightly as the large, warm hand came in contact with her bare middle. Gabrielle sighed and continued playing the game.

"Um, then defintely somebody you haven't killed yet, right?"

"Correct." The warrior's strong fingers now tapped a gentle rhythm just above the bard's navel.

"Xena?" Gabrielle called the name softly.

"Yeah."

"I can't concentrate with your hand where it is."

"Then maybe you need to focus more. Keep playing. Your turn," the warrior replied.

Warrior and bard continued playing until late morning. With the large amounts of clues Xena was handing to her, the bard just didn't get it, especially tall, dark, and leathery.

Much to Xena's regret, her hand never did move from the spot where it originally positioned itself. Xena ached to move her hand lower, but there was a time and place for everything. And Xena wanted to enjoy her bard thoroughly and uninterrupted. But, it certainly kept her mind off the chafing for awhile.

Their enjoyable ride was interrupted by crackling branches just up ahead and to the right. Xena sensed there was at least seven of them, but could be easily taken. She whispered to Gabrielle and they both dismounted.

"Where?" Gabrielle asked in a whisper.

Xena pointed to a bush that shook every couple minutes. The leather warrior motioned to Gabrielle to circle around the other side where they could attack more easily. Gabrielle seemed confused, but none the less readied her staff. Xena took out her whip and held it to her side. The warrior princess cautiously approached the bush as Gabrielle held her attack stance; the bard was clearly lost to the events before her.

"HAH!" Xena pounced. The leather whip snatched its first victim around a tiny waist.

The Amazon princess stood in bewilderment with her eyes wide open at the sight before her. Her body stood transfixed to the spot, still in attack stance. She could not believe what she had been a witness to. The princess stared at Xena clearly perplexed. A huge smile curled up on Xena's lips as she marveled at how fast she took her first victim.

"Gotcha," the proud warrior princess exclaimed.

"Xena, noooo," Gabrielle screamed.

"Now I'm gonna skin and cook ya." Xena held up her whip and withdrew her sword with her right hand.

"Xena, you can't," Gabrielle pleaded.

"Why not? It is lunch time," Xena replied as she licked her lips in anticipation of the soon to be meal before her.

"But, but...they're..." Gabrielle started to cry. "They're cute, little fuzzybunnies." At this point, the bard was sobbing uncontrollably.

"They're fuzzy what?"

"We can't... sniff... eat... sniff, sniff..." Gabrielle takes a deep breath. "Cute, little fuzzybunnies."

Xena wanted to laugh at the bard's outburst, but with the first sign of bard tears, she softened. However, Xena's dark side decided to play with the bard. And besides, Xena thought, isn't it fuzzy bunnies, and not fuzzybunnies? Leave it to a bard named Gabrielle.

"Gabrielle, when I take its fur off, it won't be so cute anymore. Then you'll never know what your eating, but it'll taste real good," Xena said teasingly.

"Then I... sniff... just won't eat," the bard said as she tried to control her sobbing.

Fat chance of that, Xena thought.

Xena couldn't take the crying bard anymore. Her blue eyes began to mist. Her mind kept repeating-- bunny, bard... bunny, bard... She then knew that she wouldn't be able to kill the bunny after all. The warrior princess adhered to Gabrielle's wishes, and they would not eat rabbit. At least, not today. In the end, the bard won out, and she let the bunny go. Another day of olives, cheese, and bread wouldn't be so bad after all, as long as she got to share them with her bard. She walked over to Gabrielle and put a strong, loving arm around the bard's shoulder. Xena drew her lover in and sweetly kissed the top of her strawberry blond head.

"Thank you," Gabrielle said with a sniff.

"Your welcome," the warrior replied quietly.

The soulmates hugged briefly until Xena pulled away and looked into red, tear stained green eyes.

Xena immediately chastised herself for being so hard on her sensitive bard.

"How about lunch. And I promise it won't be those fuzzy whats its. Okay?"

"Fuzzybunnies," the bard replied quietly as she wiped her tears away with her forearm.

The companions moved further away from the road and toward a secluded spot where they could talk and eat lunch. They found a large rock for two where they sat together and ate.

"How much further to Larissa?" Gabrielle asked as she munched on an olive.

"Not much farther." The warrior bit off a hunk of bread. A nice mug of port would go good right about now. She gulped down water from the flask they kept, and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. I can't wait until we find an inn so I can do something about this chafing.

Xena and Gabrielle continued their journey toward Larissa. It wasn't long before they were nearing town. Instead of riding Argo, they walked into town side by side. Larissa was a beautiful town that to Gabrielle looked very 'colorful.' Every building, inn, or house was painted a different pastel color. Gabrielle marveled at the array of colors, many she had never even seen before. Xena also marveled at the colorful display. She raised a dark eyebrow at the lavish color assortment. A few travelers mingled about also enjoying the unusual display.

"I guess warriors don't stay here a lot." Xena sighed, befuddled by the rainbow display.

"Warriors can like different colors, too. Not just your basic black," Gabrielle replied still in awe.

"I know which color I like you in, Gabrielle," Xena said in a husky voice.

"Yeah, you would. Come on. I see an inn up ahead." Gabrielle grabbed Xena by the hand and led warrior and mare towards a pale bluish-purple colored inn. Xena remembered that color when she was in Chin. But, at the moment, she couldn't recall its name. 'L' something was all Xena managed to get out of her brain. At this point, Xena didn't care what color the inn was as long as they stopped in one. All she could think of was removing her leathers and taking a cool bath.

The tall dark one and the short blond approached the inn and Gabrielle looked up to see the name of it.

"The Outy-Inn. Huh. That's a funny name for an inn. Isn't it, Xena?" Gabrielle asked her soulmate.

"Uh, huh." Ooooh, this chafing has got to go.

They approached the front of the colorful inn when Gabrielle noticed a sign.

"Look, Xena. It's a sign," Gabrielle said.

"What's it say, bard?" Xena asked as she found a cool wall to scratch her backside against. Travelers entering the inn stared at Xena, who just sneered back at them.

"No, it doesn't say 'bard.' It says-- room and hot bath in exchange for bardly services."

Gabrielle moved closer to Xena. "I'm bardly Xena, can we go in? Please?"

Xena loved it when the bard begged. She leaned in closer still to Gabrielle and whispered seductively. "Yes, but any 'other' services are to be provided to this warrior only." Xena growled in Gabrielle's ear and the bard trembled slightly from the vibration. Xena smiled.

"Oooh, you are so wicked."

"Yeah, but in a good way," Xena said teasingly.

"Xena, I'll stay here and you go take Argo to the stables." Gabrielle attempted a breakout, but it failed as she felt the warrior's powerful hand grab the back of her hair.

"Oh no you don't, bard. I'm not leaving you alone here. You could get into trouble."

"But, Xena."

"Gabrielle, don't argue with me. I'm only trying to protect you, okay?" the warrior princess said gently. Gabrielle pouted, then nodded.

With Argo bedded down at the stables, Xena and Gabrielle were left alone to roam the town and check out the inn. Xena managed to talk Gabrielle into checking out the inn first.

They walked into the inn and Xena was surprised to find it very dark and gloomy looking, not at all like the outside. There were square tables with four chairs each placed around the center of the large tavern. Along the walls were benches that seemed to be built into the walls. In front of the benches were smaller square tables. To the far end of the room, was the bar tucked into the left corner. Behind that, stairs to the second level which Xena presumed that that's where the rooms were. To the right, a small stage with an old wooden stool sitting in the middle of it. Several customers were milling about (mostly male), either at the bar or the tables. The smell of port and ale filled the air. Xena's warlord senses immediately took over.

Xena approached the bar with Gabrielle beside her. She looked at the innkeeper with narrowing blue eyes. He seemed harmless enough, but she would keep an eye on his large, scruffy frame.

"Port," Xena said matter of factly. She looked at Gabrielle. "And?" She raised an eyebrow to the bard.

Gabrielle cleared her throat. "Water."

"Two dinars," the innkeeper said in a gruff voice, never taking his eyes off the companions.

Gabrielle paid and then presented him with the sign from out front.

"You? A bard?" The innkeeper laughed.

Xena tensed her jaw muscles.

"No, really. I am," Gabrielle said. "Let me tell a story now and you'll see."

"Okay, blondie, you gotta name?" He was pushing his luck.

Xena tensed her leg muscles.

"Gabrielle," the bard replied. Not to fear, the warrior princess is here.

"Okay, I'll introduce you, you cute young thing," the inkeeper offered as he began to drool.

Xena flexed her biceps.

He then continued. "And if your real good, we can get to know each other better later on," he said while giving Gabrielle a sleazy smile.

Xena's whole body tensed as she reached over the bar and with both hands grabbed the innkeeper by the front of his shirt. Icy blue eyes penetrated into brown terrified ones.

Xena spoke low and angrily.

"Be nice. She's mine. If you don't behave I'll have to hurt ya."

"Yes, Xena." The innkeeper wet his pants.

"Good, you know who I am. I hate introductions." Xena pushed him backwards as she let go.

"Now, when she's ready, introduce her. Properly." Xena smiled. "And give the bard her water and bring my port to that table." Xena pointed to a dark corner across from the stage where she could go unnoticed. And, at the same time, she could watch the bard, the bar, and anyone who entered the inn.

Gabrielle thanked the gods that Xena never missed a beat. Never upset a chafing warrior princess. Gabrielle smiled to herself as she happily walked to the bar to get her water.

The leather princess sat on the bench and leaned her back against the wall. Flexing her leg, her boot tip caught the edge of a chair. Pulling her knee up, she pulled the chair forward. Knee bent, she propped her foot on the chair and slightly spread her legs. Xena took a deep breath as she felt cool air caress the inside of her thighs. Some relief, Xena thought. She looked toward the bar and saw the scruffy innkeeper talking to a younger man. Since they both were behind the bar, Xena presumed him to be another innkeeper. The men talked and pointed to Xena and Gabrielle.

Hurriedly, the younger man brought Xena her port. His hand was shaking as he set the mug down in front of the leather princess. The warrior nodded her thanks as she lifted the mug to her lips and drained the entire contents in one gulp. The innkeeper swallowed hard as Xena slammed the mug on the table.

"Another," she commanded.

He hurried to get another. Just then, Xena felt something warm and familiar beside her.

"Oh, hi, Gabrielle," Xena said as she gave Gabrielle a sheepish grin.

"Xena, don't scare those guys anymore, okay?"

"Aw, I was just having a little fun." Xena pouted and hung her head.

Gabrielle moved in closer. "I know, honey." She gently patted Xena's muscular forearm.

The bard continued. "I got us a room for as long as we want to stay here. And they serve food, too!"

Xena looked up. "Then you don't have to do that bard thing?"

Gabrielle laughed. "Yes, I'm going to do that bard thing now. Then we can get a hot bath. Okay?"

"Cool bath," Xena pointed out.

Gabrielle smiled at her companion, then turned and walked toward the stage when she heard her introduction. As Gabrielle began spinning her web of tales, patrons stopped their chattering and turned an ear. They listened intently to the adventures of Xena: The Warrior Princess. At the tales end, Gabrielle was delighted that she earned twelve dinars. Enough to go to the marketplace and buy the things she needed for Xena.

Xena always felt embarrassed when the Gabrielle told tales of her warrior adventures. But, the bard's silky voice soothed the worst of man, or warrior princess, as the case may be. Unbeknownst to Xena, a tear slid down her cheek. She was proud of Gabrielle and loved her more than life itself. She still couldn't believe that the little bard from Potidaea could love an ex-warlord. Gabrielle always found the good in her, even before she found it herself. Xena sensed her companion coming toward her and smiled as she looked up.

The bard had a big grin on her face and Xena knew she was pleased. Gabrielle slid into the bench to sit next to her favorite leather goddess.

"Hey, what's this?" Gabrielle asked as her thumb gently wiped the tear from Xena's cheek.

The warrior quickly turned away, clearly embarrassed. "Sorry, just thinking."

"How 'bout thinking in that nice, cool bath you've been waiting for. I had the innkeeper make sure everything was ready when we got to our room."

"You truly are a gift, Gabrielle." Xena smiled. Her mood brightened. She moved in closer to the bard and whispered seductively. "Can that mouth do more than tell stories?"

"If you recall, it wasn't telling a story last night," Gabrielle said so full of herself.

"Mmm, yeah, um...yup." If you looked really hard, a blush creeped its way onto Xena's cheeks.

The warrior remained speechless as Gabrielle led them upstairs to their room. As promised, a bath awaited Xena. While Xena bathed, Gabrielle took the opportunity to go to the marketplace to get the supplies she needed. She wished Xena a good bath, grabbed her staff, and was out the door. When Gabrielle returned to their room an hour later, Xena was sitting on one of the chairs by a small table near the window. Xena was sipping on a mug port wearing only her shift when Gabrielle entered their room. Gabrielle slung a large bag off her shoulder and stretched.

"Hi, warrior babe," Gabrielle said cheerfully.

"Hi, bard woman," Xena said with no emotion. "Um, Gabrielle?"

"Huh?"

"Where are my leathers and armor?" Xena asked.

"Oh, your leathers are at the leather shop being cleaned and oiled. Your armor is at the Bronze and Iron Shop, also being cleaned. They said it would take a few days to get the work done. They're very busy this time of year. But, not to worry Xena, I bought some supplies."

Xena finished the last of her port, set the mug down on the table, and walked over to Gabrielle. Leaning in close, the warrior whispered, "And should I even ask what I'm going to be wearing?"

Gabrielle laughed nervously. She pulled out some colorful looking fabric from her bag. A red satin tunic emerged. Gabrielle held it up for Xena to see. The tunic was outlined in a soft, blue color, matching Xena's eyes. Tiny lotus flowers adorned the front of the tunic, and was fastened together by small loops of material over wooden buttons that went down the length of the front of it.

Xena fingered the fine, soft material and it brought back memories. Oh, bard, Xena thought, could I tell you stories. Another time perhaps...

"It's beautiful, Gabrielle." Xena smiled at Gabrielle while desparately trying to hold back the tears.

Gabrielle was happy that Xena was pleased. "And of course, matching bottoms. Speaking of bottoms, Xena, how's yours? I got some talc and some chamomile lotion for you."

"Still sore. I think it needs some attention, and so does the rest of me," Xena said with a grin. Xena leaned into Gabrielle and began kissing the side of the bard's face.

"Um, would that be before...mmm...or after dinner?"

"Right now," Xena growled.

In seconds, Xena's shift was gone and she was sitting upright on the bed, her back resting against the wall. Gabrielle, donning nothing, had positioned herself on top Xena; straddling strong warrior hips. The bard began to squirm in Xena's lap. Xena enjoyed the different, but pleasant sensation against her most sensitive anatomy. The warrior clearly forgetting about her chafing as her thighs spread further apart.

"Gabrielle." Xena spoke soft and low. "What are you doing. And where...mmmm...did you learn this, the Amazons?" The warrior threw her head back and closed her eyes.

Gabrielle smiled and was proud of herself that she could so easily capture the warrior and the warrior's... heart. Bard hands found Xena's upper torso and began a dance of their own, but still matching the rhythm of Gabrielle's grinding hips.

"Sort of. Since I'm an Amazon princess, I call this the Amazon lap dance."

"Mmmm, oh, Gabrielle. This is wonderful," Xena moaned. The warrior made a mental note to ask about this 'lap' dance later on.

As Xena headed to the land of ecstasy, Gabrielle's hands moved south, and small fingers continued their dance in her lover's moist, sensitive folds. And the infamous warrior cry was heard throughout the land.

The next day, (mid-morning to be exact), Xena rolled over as a strong arm searched for a bard that wasn't there. Xena immediately sat up and searched the room with narrowing blue eyes. A warm smile crossed the warrior's lips as she noticed an array of foods sitting on the table, along with a scroll. She lazily got out of bed and went to retrieve the scroll. She was ready to read it when a sweet smell invaded her nostrils.

"Mmmm, baklava," the warrior said outloud. Xena picked up a large hunk and began eating as she read the scroll. It said:

My Xena,

Am downstairs negotiating with the innkeeper. Thanks for 'breaking' him in.

Argo's fed and watered. Eat up, and when you're ready, come downstairs.

We can wander the town.

As always,

Your Gabrielle

Xena smiled at the scroll as she picked up another piece of baklava and looked around for the beautiful outfit Gabrielle had given her. The warrior got dressed quickly, and as always, attached her chakram, whip, and sword to her new outfit.

"Now for my boo...." Xena said outloud. "She took all of my leather." Wanting to please her bard, Xena just put on the small, flat cream colored shoes Gabrielle left for her. Xena wasn't wearing any leather, but she sure felt sexy.

The red warrior headed downstairs to find her blond companion. Gabrielle was sitting alone at a table sipping some water. She felt Xena's presence and looked up. At the sight of the warrior, Gabrielle's breath caught.

"By the gods, you are beautiful!" Gabrielle exclaimed.

Xena looked oddly at Gabrielle. "Are you eating drugged nutbread again?" the warrior asked as she took a seat across from her bard.

Gabrielle giggled. "No, Xena. Your truly are beautiful in that outfit. And you managed to bring your weapons of choice along."

Xena smiled. "Never leave home without 'em."

"Xena?"

"Gabrielle?"

"Um, I talked to the innkeeper and I'm going to tell stories here every night for five days. Starting tomorrow tonight."

"Six days? Gabrielle, I don't know if I can stay here that long." Xena shook her head.

"I know, but free room and food, and it'll give your chafing time to heal. And I can make quite a few dinars, we are getting low on supplies. Think of this as our vacation, and you don't have to do anything for five days," Gabrielle replied on a up note.

"Okay, but what if a fight breaks out or something, or a horse thief needs to be captured?"

Xena asked inquisitively.

"Oh, I think this town can survive without your 'many skills' for a few days," Gabrielle laughed.

Xena leaned forward across the table and looked Gabrielle in the eye. In her most low, seductive, and serious voice, Xena asked, "But, can you?"

Xena didn't move, she waited for her answer. Now it was Gabrielle's turn to be at a loss for words.

One hearbeat, two heartbeats, three heartbeats...

A stunned Gabrielle just sat there with her mouth wide open.

The smiling warrior was proud of herself. She got up and walked away whistling her favorite tune.

The End