~~~~~
Chapter 7


From the moment we arrived in Corinth, Xena threw herself into the task of governing her new empire, and since I was the Empress' assistant, that meant I was very busy. Yet, despite being busy, my job had become routine. I had started to feel restless. I knew I was meant to do more, to be more than just Xena's assistant.

I kept thinking back to what the travelling seer had told me about my fate: that I'd meet a mighty warrior, and I would help this warrior change the world. Well, I met a mighty warrior, Xena, but my world had changed very little. I took notes in advisory council meetings, organised her correspondence, arranged her schedule, and ran errands. I no longer had to tidy up her quarters or bring her meals; she had a palace full of servants to do that for her. It wasn't until my relationship with Xena changed from professional to personal that my world changed.

Gone were the days when I waited in camp while the Conqueror was off leading her army into battle; after Xena became Empress, she and I spent much of our day together, officially as well as socially. Once a week she would invite me to spend the day with her. Sometimes we'd go for a ride into the countryside just to sit in a field, eat some lunch, and escape the problems in the city. If it was raining, we'd go to the library and hunt through the scrolls, or I would read one of my stories for her.

One day, near mid-summer, we travelled along the coast with the intention of staying out overnight. The air was still and oppressively hot, like standing in front of a blacksmith's forge. There wasn't even a cool breeze off the sea to alleviate the heat.

Xena seemed unaffected by the temperature, and we'd been on the move without a break for quite a while. As she strolled along the road leading her horse, my efforts to keep up with her long strides were making me tired and thirsty. I felt as though I was going to pass out if I took another step. I stopped and leaned against a tree just to rest for a moment and catch my breath.

"Here, have a drink."

I turned to see the Empress offering me her waterskin.

"Thank you, but I have my own. You need yours for yourself."

"One mouthful won't hurt. Besides, we should reach the river before I run out."

I gratefully accepted the waterskin. The water was warm and did nothing to cool me, but it was wet and very welcomed. I handed the waterskin back to the Empress with my thanks.

With a fluid movement, Xena leapt up into the saddle, reached down, and grabbed my arm. Before I had time to react, I was hoisted into the air and deposited into the saddle behind her. She kicked the horse into a trot and we resumed our progress along the road.

Riding did nothing to alleviate my discomfort from the glaring sun. I squirmed as beads of sweat trickled down my back. Eventually, with the sun's brightness and the horse's steady gait, I surrendered to fatigue, closed my eyes, and drifted off to sleep.

~~~~~

I woke with a jerk. Overhead, the sky was darkening and a few stars were just visible. The smell of sweet blossoms was carried on a cool breeze. How did I get here? Where was here?

"Hungry?"

I jumped at the voice, and turned to see the Empress crouched down by my side offering me a plate of bread and cold meat.

"Oh, Your Highness," I cried as I tried jumping to my feet, "please forgive me. I must've fallen-"

"Easy," Xena restrained me with a strong hand on my shoulder, "it's okay."

"I-"

"Shush!" she commanded.

I obeyed.

She handed me the plate and laid out her sleeping roll nearby. I looked down and saw that I was already lying on mine.

"You fell asleep behind me," she explained. "You didn't wake when we stopped, so I laid you down on your bedroll."

I felt a sudden pang of arousal at the image of her carrying me in her strong arms and gently laying me down. "Uh…thank you, My Liege," I finally replied, hoping she didn't see the blush that erupted on my cheeks.

The Empress shrugged. "No trouble, but if you fall asleep while riding tomorrow, try not to drool on my back," she warned me with a chuckle.

"Yes, My Liege. I mean, no, My Liege. I-"

"I know what you meant." She smiled. "Next time, don't wait so long to tell me if you're tired."

She started a small fire and settled down to sharpen her sword.

I listened to the rhythmic strokes of the whetstone and the gentle crackle of dry wood burning. As I did, I imagined the two of us as good friends, camping beneath the stars, travelling the world together and fighting for the greater good.

"Xena, I-"

It wasn't until the sound of stone on metal abruptly stopped that I realised what I had just said. I had often thought of her as Xena, but this was the first time I had spoken her name aloud.

I could see a dark look settling over her face as she sat frozen in her actions.

"Don't ever forget who I am," she growled. "I've put up with a lot of lapses in protocol from you, but gods be damned, I won't tolerate such familiarity from a subordinate. Do you understand?"

"I'm very sorry, My Liege. It won't happen again." I felt awful. She had shown me kindness and I had allowed myself to forget my position. Sometimes it was hard to remember that she was the Empress of Greece when we were alone.

After a moment she returned to sharpening her weapon. I stared down at the plate of food she had prepared for me. Suddenly I didn't feel too hungry and put the plate aside.

I lay down and closed my eyes hoping to sleep, but I wasn't tired. I was haunted by the scrape of stone on steel and the crackling of the fire: the very noises that led to my blunder.

Mercifully, the scraping stopped, after what seemed an eternity though could have been mere moments.

"Gabrielle," she said in a quiet voice, "I… I'm sorry I snapped at you."

I opened my eyes and looked at her. It was the first time I had heard her openly apologise. Xena had her back toward me, so I couldn't see her face, but I saw her shoulders raise and lower with a heavy sigh.

"You see, for so long I've kept people at arm's length. Since it's hard to know whom to trust, it was easier not to let anyone get too close. You're different, Gabrielle. I can't explain why really, but I feel we're somehow…don't know…connected." She turned around to face me. "You're much more to me than just an assistant, Gabrielle. I-" She lowered her eyes and twirled her sword in the dirt. "I consider you a friend."

"Thank you, My Liege. I feel the same way about you...uh, a friend I mean."

She looked up at me again. "You may call me 'Xena' when we're in private."

"Yes, My Liege," I replied diplomatically, still unsure after her reprimand.

A coy smile formed on her lips. "I guess this could be considered private, don't you?"

"Yes, my Li-"

She raised a finger to silence me.

"Yes, Xena," I said with a smile.

Xena. It felt so right to say it. Just as it felt so right when she said my name.

~~~~~

Being Xena's friend wasn't easy. Friendship required mutual respect and an understanding between equals, but the ruler of an empire had no equal. In private, she allowed me a semblance of equality, but in public I was still just her assistant and a subject, and certainly not her equal.

This was never made clearer than the day she discovered not everyone in her empire saw her as a noble and munificent ruler.

The Empress was not in the best of moods that morning. When I first saw her, she was skulking along the corridor near her study, brooding about something.

"Gabrielle! Come with me!" she snapped.

I hurried to catch up and follow her. "What's wrong, My Liege?" I did my best to keep up as she thundered down the stairs that led from the royal apartments on the second floor to the first floor of the palace.

"Dissidents!" she hissed, thrusting a parchment at me.

As we crossed the centre courtyard, I unrolled the parchment. On it was a crudely drawn caricature of the Empress, wearing only a neck collar, copulating doggy style with Ares, the God of War. The caption read "Ares' Bitch". It was unflattering, but hardly the work of dissidents, I thought.

"I've been hearing rumours about a group that's been spreading this sort of centaur dung," she continued. "They think they can do a better job of ruling the empire than me. Ha! They're lucky this isn't Rome!" She was furious and getting angrier by the minute.

We left the palace through the hall and went out into the southern courtyard. A company of palace guards, under the command of Lieutenant Darphus, was assembled in front of the stables.

"I'm going to put a stop to them. I'm going to wipe out any dissenting voice in my empire," Xena growled as we crossed to Darphus and the soldiers.

"Attention!" Darphus barked as the Empress approached him.

The soldiers neatly obeyed the command.

"I want the perpetrators of this treason found and crucified by tomorrow morning." She snatched the scroll from me and threw it at Darphus.

The lieutenant caught the scroll.

"It shall be done, My Liege," he replied, without looking at the contents of the parchment.

"Also, anyone found in possession of any material speaking out against me, I want crucified."

"Yes, My Liege."

"And Darphus, if you can't find the perpetrators, start random executions until the culprits come forward."

"You can't do that," I protested, "not over a harmless pict-"

My words were cut short when Xena backhanded me across the face.

"Don't ever contradict me again!" she roared. Her eyes were seething with rage.

I dipped my head and struggled to maintain my composure as tears welled up. I knew that the Empress despised weakness, and strangely enough, it still mattered what she thought of me.

"Forgive me, Highness."

"Leave my sight. Now!"

"By your leave, Empress." I bowed and with as much dignity as I could muster, turned and walked back into the palace.

Once inside, I ran through the centre courtyard gardens to my favourite spot, the carp pond. I often went to that tranquil spot to sit and think, or write. I reached into the pond and scooped up some water to soothe the spot where Xena had struck me.

The coolness of the water felt good against my burning cheek, but it didn't stop me feeling sick to my stomach. She had slapped me with enough force to nearly knock me to the ground, but the pain in my cheek was nothing compared to the ache I felt inside - convinced that it was the end of our friendship. I couldn't hold back the tears or the nausea any longer.

I heard footsteps approaching as I wiped away the last of the tears and vomit. By the familiar sound of boots on stone, I knew it was the Empress. She knelt down and took my hand in hers. From the regretful look on her face, I could tell she had come to apologise. But she had humiliated me in public, and I childishly snatched my hand away.

"I'm so sorry, Gabrielle."

My initial shame had long since turned to indignation. I should have known better than to speak out in public, but she should have shown some restraint in reprimanding me. Xena may rule an empire, but that gave her no excuse for striking me so viciously, and in public.

"And I'm sorry that I contradicted you in public," I said softly. I continued in a firmer tone, "But that will be the last time you ever hit me, Xena."

"I didn't mean to hit you. I just reacted to the words, not the person speaking. I wasn't thinking." Her voice sounded ragged, as though she was on the edge of losing control.

"No, you weren't," I snapped. "You've isolated yourself for so long that you're incapable of behaving like anything other than the Conqueror. I can't be your friend in private if you insist on treating me no better than a dog when we're in public. Where's your compassion?"

"It's not about compassion," Xena answered brusquely, "it's about control. Show weakness in front of others, for even one moment, and someone will try to take advantage."

"Showing compassion is not a sign of weakness," I replied.

"It is to me. I have to maintain control," she said, softening her former brusque tone but without losing her authoritative edge.

"I don't care about your control, or your power," I asserted, "I care about you, Xena. I spoke out for that reason. I don't want people to hate you. I want them to see you as I do. If you persist in this act of being ruthless and unfeeling, then you're going to have to hit me again, because I will speak out again."

"It's who I am," she declared.

"No! It's who you choose to be. There's a difference." I paused to tone down my frustration, and then looking directly into her steely-blue eyes, I continued, "I know you can be warm and kind, because you're that way with me when we're alone. You don't need to be cold and hateful in public to be an effective ruler."

I watched her expression change as she absorbed my words: at first bewildered; then conflicted. I knew our friendship meant a lot to her, but the public façade of the Conqueror was important to her, too.

"There's nothing stopping you keeping control, only your insecurity," I said. "I admit I was wrong to speak out today and I could've made my point more diplomatically, but I didn't deserve to be treated like a slave. I won't let you treat me like that again. Not if you want my friendship." I took a deep breath, "I'd rather leave."

"No, Gabrielle, please." She grabbed my arm. "You can't, I need you. I-you're a good friend, Gabrielle - a very special person in my life, and I don't want to lose you." The expression on her face was heartbreaking.

"You can disagree with me. You can ignore my advice. You can even shout and scream at me, but if you ever hit me again, I'll-"

"I won't, I promise!"

"Don't!" I snapped. "Don't make promises you can't keep." The anger in me finally receded and I softened my tone, "all I ask is that you consider what I've said."

"I will. What can I do to make up for this? Name it. Anything."

"You can rescind your order about crucifying the dissidents," I suggested.

The Empress hung her head. "Anything else, but not that." She lifted her eyes to look at me. "You understand I can't back down on that order, don't you?"

I had expected that response. A part of me was pleased about that. I never wanted Xena to be an ineffectual ruler, and I recognised her need to deliver justice in her own way.

"I'll reconsider the order of the random executions," Xena continued, "I'll just use that as a threat to get the dissidents. I promise I won't have any innocent people killed."

"You don't get it, do you?" My frustration flared again. "Those sorts of threats are the very reason why the dissidents exist."

"Okay, okay. I won't even threaten to have innocent people hurt. But I won't tolerate threats to my power. I'm going to make an example of any dissident I find."

"You know, you'll get an ass to pull your goods to market faster with a carrot than with a whip," I replied.

"What is that supposed to mean?"

"It means, executing the dissidents isn't going to solve the problem, it's only going make the problem worse. On the other hand, if you listen to their grievances and show them mercy, they'll carry the message back to their comrades that you are a wise and just ruler - a champion of the people."

"Perhaps in an ideal world that might work. But in this reality, it takes a strong and powerful ruler to build a better world."

I nodded wearily. "There is something else you can do to make it up to me."

"What's that?" She reached out and gently touched my bruised cheek.

I winced and pulled away slightly - my cheek and my pride still hurt a little. "You said you couldn't show compassion, then allow me to show it for you. Let me be the voice of your conscience. That way you can maintain your 'Conqueror' image, if it means so much to you."

"I don't understand."

"I want a job where advising you isn't out of line, a job with more responsibilities. I want to be able to advise you in front of people without seeming to undermine your authority. You've asked for my advice in private and I've offered it, and I've disagreed with you in private and you've accepted it. To me, that sounds more like an advisor than a personal assistant. Don't you think?"

Xena didn't respond right away, which I took as a good sign. "Alright," she nodded thoughtfully, "I'll make you my Advisor for Civilian Affairs. But, I still expect you to 'assist me' with your company and your friendship."

I realised how significant a promotion this was. It put me on equal footing with the Empress' other chief advisors, like General Darnell. However, more important than the job to me was Xena telling me I was a special person in her life. That meant our friendship was genuine, and I felt a weight lift from my shoulders.

~~~~~

My reception on my first day as Advisor for Civilian Affairs was only marginally better than the reception I got as the Conqueror's new personal assistant. There were no lewd comments this time, but it was not greeted with enthusiasm - especially not by Darnell.

"What exactly is her authority?" he asked the Empress forcefully.

"Seeing that the people are pacified, and whatever else I decide." She fixed a challenging stare at him and he backed down. "It leaves you and me free to concentrate on more important things."

Though her final words may have sounded as if they were belittling my new position, I knew she was only saying it to placate Darnell. The general was very possessive of his position in Xena's court. He seemed to take the idea of the Empress seeking advice elsewhere as a personal affront.

"My job is only to advise Empress Xena on what I think is best for her people. As you know, she is free to disregard my advice at her will." I said. I wanted to put his mind at rest - to point out that my advice might not always be heeded, and that he shouldn't feel threatened. I then realised I had been witness to his advice being dismissed. I hoped he hadn't taken my comment as an insult.

Darnell kept silent, but I could see by his clenched jaw that he had taken my words the wrong way.

"Let's get down to business," said Xena, destroying the uneasy silence that was building. "Have the dissidents been caught yet?"

Darnell swallowed hard. Even I could tell what his answer would be.

"Any leads at all?" growled the Empress, before Darnell spoke.

"None," the General answered. "Shall I have Darphus start rounding-"

"No," Xena cut him off, giving me an embarrassed look, "keep looking."

"As you wish, Your Highness." He relaxed once he knew Xena was not angry with him for lack of results. But at the same time, he looked disappointed.

After the Empress had dismissed her council of advisors, Darnell cornered me in a corridor.

"This is the real world, little girl, not a game. Be careful," he whispered menacingly. Then he strode off.

If his intention was to threaten me, it failed. I had no wish to make an enemy of General Darnell, but he and I both knew that the Empress would hurt him if he ever threatened me. I took his little show as nothing more than an expression of his insecurity. However, the one thing that did bother me was calling me a "little girl". On the wall opposite me was a brightly polished shield, and I studied my reflection in it. I could see his point. I didn't look that old. If I wanted to be taken seriously, then an image change was necessary.

~~~~~

Xena opened the door to her study and blinked at me in surprise. "What? You-"

I allowed myself a smile of satisfaction as I walked past her. She closed the door and stood there staring at me. It wasn't often the Empress was left open-mouthed and speechless.

"Gabrielle! Why?"

"Do you like it?" I touched the back of my head where my long hair had been cut short.

She walked around me, examining me from every angle, before passing judgement. "Yes," she said quietly and nodded. "Yes. It suits you. But why?"

I wondered about telling her the truth. If she knew it was a reaction to Darnell's comments, it would've led to unnecessary trouble. "I think it looks more professional," I said.

Xena laughed softly and reached out to ruffle my newly shorn locks. "Well, it's too late to change it," she observed. "C'mon, let's eat."

We sat down, but hadn't even begun to eat when we were disturbed by a knock. A soldier saluted when Xena opened the door.

"General Darnell sent me to inform you the dissidents have been captured."

"Where are they?"

"In the main square. They're waiting for you to witness the executions."

Xena glanced in my direction, and then turned back to the soldier. "I'll be there right away. Dismissed."

The soldier saluted and hurried away.

"Come with me, Gabrielle."

My heart started pounding hard. "No. I can't… if you're going to execute them, I don't want to watch."

She looked at me with a neutral expression. "You're my Advisor for Civilian Affairs. And this is a civilian affair."

"Yes, but-"

"You wanted responsibility, Gabrielle. Take it. In this job, you can't just deal with the things you like."

I nodded half-heartedly and trailed behind her.

A chariot was waiting in the courtyard for us. Xena jumped in and looked back at me. She had a gentle, thoughtful look on her face, hardly the look of someone going to witness an execution. She took the reins and offered me a hand up. I quickly climbed in next to her. As the chariot moved off, a heavy feeling settled in my stomach. I couldn't have felt worse if I was on my way to my own execution. By contrast, Xena seemed almost unnaturally calm.

We rode out of the gates of the palace, down the hill, and into the city agora. Xena placed her hand on my forearm - she knew I didn't want to be there. I glanced up at her, and she gave my arm a gentle squeeze and winked.

We rode in silence through the streets and before too long we arrived at the main square. The soldiers gathered there snapped to attention at a barked command from Lieutenant Darphus. Xena brought the chariot to stop before slowly climbing out. A hush descended among the crowd. I waited for Xena to move away before I got out and reluctantly followed her.

The late evening sun had dipped below the buildings, casting the square in cool shadows. Three prisoners were being held near three newly erected crosses in front of an anxious crowd. Darphus beamed proudly as he watched the Empress walk towards the dissidents. I walked a couple of yards behind Xena, hoping that this would be over quickly. Darnell was also present. He stood in front of the prisoners until the Empress neared, at which point he stepped aside.

"It seems you have a problem with the way I run my empire," she addressed all three.

"Rot in Tartarus, bitch," spat one of the prisoners. He was a stocky man with unkempt, shoulder length red hair. His partners in crime were identical twins, tall and wiry with curly black hair.

"I'll take that as a 'yes'," Xena said with amusement. "You three have the honour of being the first to face the judgement of my new Advisor for Civilian Affairs."

I wanted the ground to open up and swallow me. I couldn't believe Xena would do such a thing without telling me beforehand. By the expression on General Darnell's face, he was as stunned as I was.

She turned and walked towards me, a gentle smile curling her lips. "Do what you think is best," she whispered to me as she stopped by my side.

I thought I detected a subtle emphasis on the word "you". Would she really accept my judgement if I let them go? I wondered.
"Go on," she encouraged me gently, "you can do it."

I stepped forward to the prisoner who had cursed Xena. He gave me a disgusted look.

"Did she give you that bruise?" he asked.

My hand went to my face where Xena had hit me. "It was a misunderstanding on my part," I replied.

"She beats you and you defend her. What chance do we have? You may as well crucify us now."

"What's your name?" I asked him.

He studied me for a few moments. I half expected Xena to interrupt and tell him to answer me, but she kept out of it, allowing me to do this my own way.

"Larrius," he said eventually.

I looked to Darphus. "Is there any evidence linking Larrius to the...'material'?"

"Yes," Darphus said with a smirk. He handed me a scroll that contained another picture: the Empress seated on her throne eating a sumptuous meal while starving people ate discarded scraps at her feet.

"Did you draw this?" I asked Larrius.

He turned to look at his two companions before answering. "Yes."

"Why?"

He blinked in surprise, not expecting such a question. "Because the people deserve to know the truth."

"And what is the truth?"

He nodded his head at the picture. "That is."

"So, you're saying that the people are starving?"

"Yes."

"And how long have they been starving?" I countered immediately.

"What?" His green eyes narrowed in suspicion at my question. He looked as though he didn't like the direction the discussion was going,

"People have been starving for generations," I explained, "it's a fact of life - not Empress Xena's fault."

"But she's not doing anything to stop it," Larrius persisted.

"And how does drawing these pictures help? Have you given the starving any money or food? Have you tried to help them find work so they can buy food for themselves?" I felt angry, but kept my voice calm.

Shamefacedly, the dissident leader avoided my questions.

"No, I didn't think you had. Do you really want to help the poor, or are you merely stirring up trouble out of boredom?"

I must've hit a nerve, because Larrius became emboldened once again. "She promised us peace and prosperity," the prisoner pointed a finger at the Empress, his shackles clanking as he did, "but where is this prosperity? Instead of helping to rebuild villages and farms laid waste by warlords in advance of the Conqueror's army, she's building armies, palaces, and temples to Ares. She's no better than the tyrants she overthrew."

"Okay, you've convinced me you care about the people. You risked execution for them. But you are wrong about the Empress. She cares enough about her people to create the post of a civilian affairs advisor. So if you have a grievance, bring it to me and I'll see what I can do to help."

Larrius' face went from defiant to pensive.

"Do you have anything else to say in your defence?" I waited for a response, but he merely lowered his eyes and said nothing. His two associates stood mutely a few paces behind him.

I took a deep breath and remembered Xena's words: do what I thought was best. "This is what's going to happen. The three of you are going to spend twenty-eight days in the dungeon as punishment for spreading seditious lies and pictures of Empress Xena. I suggest you use that time thinking of more constructive ways to help the poor. When you complete your prison sentence, you are to have three proposals for improving the condition of our poorest citizens. Then your next twenty-eight days will be spent implementing your plans."

"Take them away!" the Empress ordered.

Darphus order his men to lead Larrius and his companions away. General Darnell gestured to the officer in charge of the execution detail, who in turn ordered the crowd dispersed.

After giving me an incredulous sneer, Darnell turned to face the Empress. "May I speak to you, in private, Your Highness?"

"You may speak freely in front of Advisor Gabrielle, Darnell."

I noticed the use of a title with my name, and not with his, rankled Darnell. It surprised me that Xena belittled him so readily, and I wondered whether it was a good idea to antagonise him. But Xena had known him for years and he was loyal to her.

"Very well. I fail to understand your decision to allow this, this…" Darnell groped for a word while he raised his hand in my direction. It appeared he thought better of it, when the Empress squared her shoulders and gave him a threatening look. He continued with barely disguised contempt, "…these traitors to escape execution, and give them what amounts to a slap on the wrist. Mark my words, Highness, this course of action will only encourage the dissidents, not deter them. And Rome will take this as a sign of weakness."

Xena's face remained impassive; however, her eyes grew cold at the word "weakness."

"I appreciate your advice, General, and your efforts to find and arrest these malcontents. I assure you I have not gone soft. I have learned that sometimes you'll get an ass to pull your goods to market faster with a carrot than with a whip."

Darnell looked confused at Xena's words. He opened and closed his mouth a few times, then finally gave up trying to think of a reply.

"Now, if you will excuse us, General, I need to speak to my Advisor for Civilian Affairs."

Darnell snapped to attention and bowed, "Your Highness." He did an about face and left.

I waited until the general was well out of earshot and Xena and I were alone, before I spoke. "Xena, I'm sorry if I put you in an awkward position. I wasn't prepared and I-"

"No, it's fine, Gabrielle. You handled that very well."

"Even though I didn't have them crucified?"

"It was your decision to make. Whether I agree with it or not, you still did a very good job."

"General Darnell didn't seem to think so. Maybe he's right. Maybe this will just encourage the dissidents to become bolder. What if I made a huge mistake?"

"Never underestimate yourself, Gabrielle. You have good instincts - never doubt them. A word of advice though, you are now in a position of authority. Be confident in the decisions you make and the actions you take. Never let yourself be seen as indecisive. You can't afford to show any weakness."

From that pearl of wisdom, I better understood why Xena appeared so inflexible at times. And from my first official act as the Empress' civilian affairs advisor, I learned that I better heed her advice. I couldn't afford to appear weak or indecisive when dealing with dissidents - or Darnell.

"May I ask you something?"

"Sure, what is it?"

"Did you use that analogy about 'the ass and the carrot' just to cover for me with General Darnell, or do you really feel that way?"

"Well, let's just say that I'm willing to concede there may be times when it is better to use a carrot than a cross." Xena flashed a wry smile.

"In any case, if my idea doesn't work, I can still have them crucified," I said in all seriousness.

"That's a joke…right?"

"What do you think?" It was my turn to flash her a wry smile.

Her face lit up in a smile, then returned to a more serious expression. "Gabrielle, there might be times when decisions either of us make bring us into conflict." She raised a hand and gently squeezed my shoulder. "I want you to know now that whatever professional disagreements we may have, it won't affect our personal rela..." Xena paused and cleared her throat, "I mean we'll still be friends."

I looked up into soft blue eyes and said, "of course we'll be friends - that will never change."

I truly believed that. No matter what the Fates threw at us, we would always be friends.

~~~~~
Chapter 8

Within a few months of conquering Greece, I had a government in place and capable men like Braextus to oversee the provinces. General Darnell supervised the establishment of garrison cities to defend the borders and keep the peace. And I was presented with a rather unorthodox solution to the dissident problem: Gabrielle became my Advisor for Civilian Affairs. I was not proud of the circumstances under which I promoted Gabrielle; however, I was glad I did. Despite the misgivings of Darnell and others, my former assistant proved that she was up to the challenge. So, with the day-to-day affairs of government running smoothly, the borders well defended, and the citizenry pacified, I began to focus on plans for expanding my empire beyond the borders of Greece.

The Romans had carved out a large empire that stretched from Gaul in the west to the borders of my empire in the east. I knew it was just a matter of time before the Romans viewed me as a threat and waged war on Greece. My aim, therefore, was to conquer them first, but until my army was ready to face-off against Roman Legions on the battlefield, I would have to maintain cordial diplomatic relations with their Triumvirate and its leader, Julius Caesar.

Caesar was an ambitious man, and like me, he believed it was his destiny to rule the greatest empire the world had ever known. Since the world wasn't big enough for the two of us, I was going to make damn sure it was my destiny that would be fulfilled - though destiny, it seemed, was subject to Fate's own cosmic timetable.

It had barely been a week since Gabrielle's promotion, when I awoke to a pounding on my bedchamber door. The guards knew better than to wake me in the middle of the night without a good reason, so I knew it had to be important.

"What is it?" I called as I slipped out of bed and picked up a robe.

"My Liege, a messenger has just arrived," came the voice of the night watch commander. "The scroll is sealed with your imperial mark."

"Have him brought to me immediately," I answered back.

I put on the robe and splashed some water on my face to freshen up. A few minutes later there was another knock on my door.

"Come."

The night watch commander entered my chambers and saluted. "Your Highness, the messenger awaits you in your study."

"Very good, Lieutenant. I will be there presently."

The messenger stood awestruck as I entered the room. The two guards who had escorted him snapped to attention. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw one of the guards poke the courier in the ribs and gesture for him to bow. Ignoring everyone, I picked up the scroll from where it lay on the table to examine the seal.

"Who gave you this?" I barked at the messenger.

"A-another courier, Your Worship," he stammered. "He was instructed not to tell me who sent it. Only that I was to deliver it directly to you."

Sending a scroll of such importance by commercial couriers was a last resort, and I couldn't allow it to be traced back to its source. I turned to one of the guards. "Have that messenger tracked down immediately and killed."

"Yes, My Liege." The soldier nodded and hurried out.

The messenger, who stood before me, started whimpering. He knew what was coming next. I turned to the other soldier. "Kill this one," I pushed the messenger toward him, "make it quick."

I broke the seal as the messenger's body hit the floor. A quick glance at the first word confirmed my fears. I turned, stepped over the corpse, and returned to my bedchambers.

The scroll was from my spy in Rome. He had orders to contact me only when circumstances demanded immediate action. The message conveyed news of Caesar's latest conquests. He had moved legions into Gaul and Britannia, making them part of the empire. With the ability to recruit warriors from these conquered territories, Caesar could put together a formidable army.

Yet it wasn't all bad news. Until the territories of Gaul and Britannia were completely subdued, the Romans would be preoccupied into diverting reinforcements there and away from the heart of Rome itself. The best news was my spy had heard from a reliable source that Caesar was planning to proclaim himself emperor. This would not sit well with the other members of the Triumvirate - especially not after I sowed some seeds of dissent. I would take a page from Caesar's own scroll: divide and conquer.

I immediately dispatched a message informing the Triumvirate that I would be coming to Rome for a state visit.

~~~~~

Since this was a diplomatic visit, I had no need of my civilian affairs advisor in Rome; nevertheless, I asked Gabrielle to accompany me. I made up some plausible reason - something about Roman civic improvements - but to be honest, I couldn't imagine going without her.

Gabrielle looked a little unsettled as we sailed out of port. We stood near the gunwales forward of the main rigging and watched, as Corinth harbour became a dot on the horizon.

Once we were under full sails, I turned my attention to Gabrielle. Her usually bright demeanour was subdued and her complexion was ashen green.

"Are you alright?" I asked her.

"Yes," she said, mustering a wan smile. "It's just a bit of nerves."

I looked at her quizzically.

She answered my look. "I've never been on a ship before."

"Don't worry, there's nothing to it. You'll be fine once you get your sea legs."

"I'm not so sure about that, I-" Suddenly, Gabrielle stopped talking, leaned over the rail and disgorged the contents of her stomach.

"I'm sorry," Gabrielle groaned and lifted her head from over the railing. "It's the movement," she explained. "All that up and dow-" She leaned over the side again to retch.

Nearby, soldiers and sailors quietly snickered. One look from me and they went about their business, but even I had to stifle a chuckle.

"Come here. I know a little trick that'll help you."

"You do?" Gabrielle said with a pained but hopeful look.

"Give me your arm."

She obeyed, and I applied some acupressure techniques.

"If the nausea comes back, just press here." I showed her where to press on her wrist.

"Thank you." She sighed. "I feel better already."

~~~~

We were two days into our crossing. The sea was calm and we were making good time. After showing her the acupressure point to cure seasickness, Gabrielle couldn't get enough of life on the sea and spent much of the day on deck chatting with the crew. I, on the other hand, spent most of the day in my cabin with Darnell going over the agenda for our visit to Rome. Still, it was good to be onboard a ship again. The sounds and smells reminded me of my pirate days - long before I became "Xena the Conqueror".

That was when I first encountered Julius Caesar. He was my first great passion and the only man that had ever bettered me. After Caesar, I had vowed never to open my heart completely to anyone again.

"Why?"

The voice and the question startled me. I turned to find Gabrielle standing in the cabin doorway. "Why what?" I asked warily, wondering if she had read my mind.

"Why conquer Rome?" She walked over to where I stood. "You already rule Greece and Macedonia."

"I'm just paying a state visit to a neighbour," I replied with feigned innocence. "Who said anything about conquering it?"

Gabrielle smiled and shook her head. "You!" She waved a piece of salt beef at me. "You said yourself, you're known as 'the Conqueror' because it's what you do."

"You got me there," I said with a slight chuckle.

Her smile faded and was replaced by a more serious expression. "Xena, Caesar is not some petty warlord. If you go up against him, you might very well lose everything."

"I won't lose," I responded defiantly.

"But to go up against the strongest empire in the world is foolhardy. Can't you be content with what you've got?" Her tone was a mixture of reproach and pleading.

"I'm doing it precisely because Rome is strong," I rumbled. "They're a threat to my empire, and I will not be threatened by anyone!"

"Yes, My Liege," she replied in that particularly apologetic tone I hated.

"Stop it!" I growled. "Don't 'yes, My Liege' me like that ever again!" I closed the distance between us.

Gabrielle stood as though her boots were nailed to the planks. She didn't flinch. Instead, she turned her head slightly and revealed the light yellow-purple shadow of the bruise on her cheek. The memory of it hit me with a similar ferocity.

"My Liege, you can't do that-"

That's all I heard Gabrielle say. Without thinking, my hand lashed out and struck her face, hard. "Don't ever contradict me again!" I spat, my mind clouded by indignant rage.

Gabrielle, to her credit, did not cry out. She stood with her head bowed, but she couldn't hide the bright red mark that stood out in sharp contrast against her pale cheek.

What had I done? My soul screamed in agony when I realised I had just viciously slapped the one person who was most dear to me. All I wanted to do was draw her in my arms and beg her forgiveness, but my men were watching us. I couldn't show any sign of backing down in public.

Later I found her sitting by the carp pond in the inner courtyard gardens. I could tell she had been crying from the tear streaks running down her reddened cheek.

Facing twenty gladiators in the arena seemed preferable to facing Gabrielle, but I had never backed down from anything in my life. I knelt down and took her trembling hand. "I'm so sorry, Gabrielle."

She pulled her hand away. "That will be the last time you ever hit me, Xena."

I raised my hand...and cupped her still-bruised cheek in my palm. "Please don't use that meek, disapproving tone against me. I need your friendship, Gabrielle, not your obedience."

Gabrielle instinctively leaned into the warmth of my hand as I gently stroked her cheek. "I'm sorry, Xena. Sometimes it's hard to know how to deal with your dark moods."

I knew I was falling in love with Gabrielle, but I couldn't let her know. I couldn't let anyone know. To love was to have a weakness an enemy could exploit, and Caesar most assuredly would exploit Gabrielle to checkmate me.

"I'm sorry for getting angry," I said as I lowered my hand. "But Caesar does that to me. This is not just a political move. It's personal." I turned away from her and sat down on my bunk.

She sat down on her bunk opposite me. We sat silently for what seemed like an age, and then Gabrielle spoke, "Tell me. It might help."

I looked across at her. She had such an open and compassionate expression on her face. I had resolved not to talk about my past with Caesar, but it was her next simple request that made me open up to her.

"Please, Xena."

Memories of Caesar were still raw and piercing, and there were some memories I had to bury deep or risk discarding my destiny and giving in to blind hatred. With Gabrielle, however, I felt safe enough to expose some of it.

"Caesar was charming, handsome, charismatic, arrogant, self-centred, ruthless, cunning, and the most dangerous man I had ever met," I began. "I fell in love with him and he used me. I thought I was in control and knew what I was doing. I thought I could trust him - that together we'd rule an empire. He betrayed me and had me crucified."

"Crucified!" Gabrielle gasped.

I nodded. "He had my legs broken for good measure."

"How did you survive?" She leaned forward, eager to hear what I had to say, but there was a look in her eyes that suggested she wasn't enjoying the story. It was as though she was suffering the hurt I had felt all those years ago, and she needed to feel it in order to understand me.

I lowered my eyes as I thought of M'Lila, the runaway slave who had rescued me from the cross, who had died protecting me from Caesar's soldiers. That was one memory I chose not to share. "I had help," I replied simply.

Gabrielle moved over to my bunk and laid a sympathetic hand on my left leg. Her fingers grazed the inside of my thigh, and I felt a sudden rush of desire at her touch. Having her this close and not acting on my feelings was driving me to distraction.

I got up from the bunk and started pacing the floor of the small cabin so I could refocus my mind on the task at hand. Gabrielle said nothing, but her sea-green eyes urged me to continue and after a bit more pacing, I did.

"I've spent many years waiting for an opportunity to get my revenge. And now that I have power equal to his, he'll do everything he can to neutralise me."

"If that's the case, won't he have you killed when you get to Rome?" Gabrielle sounded worried.

"No. Caesar is a showman. He won't try and kill me until he first parades me around like a sacrificial bull, and then he will make a spectacle of my death. Having power is not enough for him. He has to be seen as being the most powerful."

"He sounds a like a monster."

"On the contrary, he's a charming and delightful host. When you meet him, you'll find yourself drawn to him. He can make you say things you'd never dream of saying to anyone else. And then he'll casually order your death as he would a goblet of wine."

Gabrielle looked troubled.

"What's the matter?" I asked.

"Nothing," she evaded and forced a smile.

"Say it." I knew what she wanted to say.

"It's just that-"

"It's just that the words I use to describe Caesar could just as easily describe me."

Gabrielle averted her gaze, so I knew I had correctly guessed her thoughts.

"Caesar has the same desires I do. We are both driven by our belief in our own destiny to rule a vast empire. When we met all those years ago, he recognised I could be a formidable rival. That was why he wanted me dead, and that is why there can be only one of us."

~~~~~

That first sight of him, in his ceremonial battle dress of red with gold trim and ornate gold plated armour, brought more memories flooding back. For a moment I found myself feeling the same attraction I had felt all those years ago.

"Xena! How nice to see you again."

To the casual observer, he sounded like he was greeting an old friend, but I detected the slight tone of condescension in his voice.

"I believe you meant to greet me as 'Your Highness,' did you not, Julius? I am, after all, an Empress."

In this verbal dual, I got in the first strike, and I could tell from his tightened jaw it had stung a bit. I smiled inwardly knowing how much it must have irked him to have to accord me proper respect.

We continued to stare each other down in a battle of wills. Caesar needed to find out the reason for my visit, and to do that, he would have to be the first to blink.

Although it would've given me pleasure to watch him swallow that bitter pill, it served my purpose to let him think he had won this round.

"Titles are not important," I said. "We are all friends here, are we not?"

"Yes, of course," Caesar said with a fake smile. Then he clapped his hands and two slaves - one with a tray of drinks, the other with a tray of fruit - stepped forward and offered me refreshment.

I took a reasonable gamble that Caesar wouldn't poison the wine at the first meeting and grabbed a goblet. Instinctively, I scanned the hall to scout my surroundings and identify the other members of the Triumvirate.

I recognised Pompey straight away. He was posing against the wall behind Caesar, a goblet of wine in one hand, the other on his hip. Tall and ruggedly handsome, he appeared disdainful of everything and everyone around him.

"So, what brings such a well-respected neighbour to our shores?" asked Caesar.

"Oh, you know how it is." I took a sip of wine, and then savoured the taste, allowing the Consul to become agitated waiting for my reply. "Very nice wine. And no poison, I must be an honoured guest."

Caesar flashed a hard smile at my refusal to answer his question directly. "Have some fruit, Your Highness," he offered cordially.

I reached out and grasped a grape between my thumb and forefinger. "Are these poisoned?" I asked Caesar with a wicked smile.

This comment provoked a chuckle from one of the men to my right. I glanced in that direction but didn't notice which one had made the sound.

Pompey had obviously had enough at this point. He pushed himself away from the wall with a melodramatic sigh. "So, the Great Xena deigns to pay us a visit. Are we all supposed to just stand around like background actors in a play while you and Caesar decide which of you can piss the farthest? Or are you going to tell us why you're really here?"

It seemed my information about him was correct: he was an arrogant little shit. I was going to enjoy controlling him, but wondered how long I could keep myself from having him killed. "You must be Pompey, the Magnus," I said, sounding like I was trying to control my awe. "It's an honour to meet you." I dipped my head slightly.

"You have heard of my prowess in battle," proclaimed Pompey as he swaggered towards me. The word 'battle' was emphasised with a discreet thrust of his pelvis.

"Oh, most definitely," I purred, and made sure he noticed my lingering look at his groin. "I'm sure no one is a match for you."

The pandering to his ego caused him to puff his chest out, and he gave Caesar a cocky smirk. Caesar, in turn, gave me a withering look. I simply smiled at Caesar as Pompey took my hand and brought it to his lips. Inside I felt revolted, but outwardly I appeared flattered. If it took getting between the sheets with this insect to get him to oust Caesar, I would.

Caesar cleared his throat. "Allow me to introduce you to the third member of the Triumvirate, Brutus."

"Brutus? What happened to Crassus?" I feigned surprise.

"Oh, your spies didn't tell you? Crassus, I'm afraid, is no longer with us. It seems he died in bed..." Caesar paused for effect, "...in bed with Senator Flavius's wife." Everyone in the room chuckled. Caesar continued, "The Senate has seen fit to appoint Brutus to take Crassus's place in the Triumvirate." Caesar raised his arm and gestured toward a short, rather plain-looking man making his way out from the assembly. "Empress Xena, may I present my good friend, Brutus."

"Empress," Brutus said as he bowed slightly. "I am honoured to make your acquaintance."

"As I am yours," I replied.

I did not bring a large entourage to this meeting - just General Darnell, two senior aides, and a four-man honour guard. At my insistence, Gabrielle remained onboard ship with Lieutenant Galates. It was for her protection. I had no way of knowing for sure what kind of reception I would receive from Caesar, and I wanted to keep her out of harm's way.

I gestured for Darnell to step forward. "May I present General Darnell, my Chief of Staff."

Darnell snapped to attention and gave our Roman hosts a courtly nod.

"We are honoured, General." Ever the gracious host, Caesar greeted Darnell cordially.

"The honour is mine. I have long anticipated meeting Rome's greatest generals - though I had expected it to be on the field of battle," Darnell replied with a sly smile.

Pompey was about to respond when we heard a commotion outside the door to the chamber.

"You cannot enter!" a guard's voice boomed.

"Do you know who I am?"

"No."

"Then how do you know I'm not allowed to enter?"

I felt a sudden jolt of adrenalin as I recognised the voice. It was Gabrielle.

Caesar strode over to the door and pulled it open. "Because only I say who is allowed to enter," he said sternly.

"And who are you?" my civilian affairs advisor queried.

"I am Caesar, Julius Caesar."

"Forgive me, Consul Caesar, but I have an urgent message for Empress Xena."

I stepped up behind Caesar to see Gabrielle offering a curtsey to him. Lieutenant Galates was with her, but that gave me little comfort.

Caesar turned to face me and sneered. "Your slave has a message for you."

"She is not a slave," I countered.

"Then I'll only have her flogged for disturbing this meeting. Guards-"

Lieutenant Galates protectively stepped in front of Gabrielle and drew a dagger. Caesar's guards drew their weapons and stood ready. My guards did likewise.

"I think this is getting a little out of hand," Brutus said calmly. "Put your weapons away," he ordered.

The Roman guards hesitantly looked from Brutus to Caesar.

"Do as he says." Pompey bustled forward, not wanting to miss out on the action.

Pompey's command was enough for them, and the Roman guards sheathed their swords.

"Empress?" Pompey gestured at my guards.

I nodded once and my men stood down. "Lieutenant." I held my hand out to Galates. He lowered his knife and handed it to me.

While casually handling the dagger, I stepped right up to Caesar and whispered in his ear. "If you threaten a senior member of my advisory council ever again, it will be the last thing you do. Understand?"

A blink of his eyes and the tiniest head movement signalled his understanding.

I gave the dagger back to Galates and manoeuvred myself closer to Gabrielle.

"Now, I believe my advisor has an important message for me. I think it's best we withdraw for now to get settled before this evening's banquet."

"That would be acceptable," said Pompey.

Brutus nodded his agreement.

Caesar turned his back to me and waved a hand to dismiss everyone.

My entourage and I left the chamber. Once we had rounded a corner, I stopped and grabbed Gabrielle's arm, pulling her to one side of the corridor. A quick signal and the others moved away to give us some privacy and make sure we weren't disturbed. Galates lingered slightly, but then moved away as well once he saw the aggravated look on my face.

"What are you doing here?" I whispered sternly. "I told you it could be dangerous, and I ordered you to stay onboard the ship. You could've been killed!"

"I know, but a situation has developed," Gabrielle said gravely. "I thought it best I inform you."

"What situation?"

"The ship's lookout spotted the mast of a Roman warship just around the headland in the next bay, and two more far out to sea. Plus, two units of soldiers have been positioned between here and the port. The ship's captain says there is no way he can outrun the warships. It looks like Caesar is intent on stopping you from leaving."

"Gabrielle, I appreciate you bringing me this news, but you took an awful risk. Why didn't you send a messenger instead of coming yourself?

"Because I-I was worried about you, Xena. I couldn't stay on that ship and do nothing - not when you could be in trouble and I could help. Please don't be angry."

How could I be angry with her? Gabrielle had just risked her life to bring me this news. I released the grip I had on her arm and looked deeply into her anxious green eyes. Her concern for me was evident, but there was something else. I wondered if it was love I saw in her eyes, or was I only seeing the reflection of my own feelings? But it was not the time to explore that possibility. I needed to focus, or Caesar would surely get the better of me - again.

~~~~~

We made our way back toward the ship. The two units that Gabrielle had mentioned were still ahead of us.

"They're stationed in the trees on that hill," she said as she pointed toward one of the seven hills that surrounded Rome.

I knew Caesar wanted me neutralised, but I couldn't believe he'd be so clumsy as to let any trap of his be noticed. That meant the soldiers must be loyal to Pompey or Brutus.

I looked up at the position of the sun. We had plenty of time to get to the ship and return for the banquet, but would the soldiers on the hill know we were not trying to leave Rome? I had to make a decision and make it quick. I had Darnell return to the ship, send the ten best soldiers back to meet me here, and order the captain to leave port.

I had a job for Lieutenant Galates. "I want you to go back to the city and deliver a message to Pompey."

"Yes, My Liege. What is it?"

"Tell him to meet me at the west portico of the Coliseum at dawn tomorrow."

Galates saluted and headed back toward Rome. Gabrielle watched him go and then turned to face me.

"So how do we get out of this?"

"Out of what?" I feigned ignorance.

"You've sent the ship away and stranded us in Rome."

"Oh, that. Don't worry, Gabrielle, you'll be perfectly safe," I replied nonchalantly.

"It's not me I'm worried about. I'm worried about you. I couldn't bear it if something were to happen to you, Xena."

I gave her a reassuring smile. "Nothing is going to happen to me, I promise."

~~~~~

After returning to the city with an additional squad of soldiers for security, I sent a message to Brutus to arrange a private meeting. And, as I suspected, he readily agreed. The place he chose for the meeting was the house of a merchant friend of his.

When I arrived, Brutus was there, waiting for me. I casually paced the room and examined some of the artwork and trinkets that adorned it before I acknowledged him. His diplomatic skills were in evidence when he didn't press me as to why I had asked for a meeting. That impressed me.

I picked up a jade figurine that had come from Chin. "Do you want to rule Rome?" I asked in a conversational tone as I examined the figurine in detail.

"I already do," he replied.

"In part," I corrected him and put the jade piece back down.

"Part is good enough for me."

I faced him for the first time and gave him a disbelieving look.

"Caesar is a dangerous man - dangerous because he is ambitious," I said. "He believes it is his destiny to rule the world as Emperor of Rome. But you know that. That's why you agreed to meet me."

"You're wrong about Caesar. He wants to restore the Republic. Your perception of Caesar is tainted by your hatred for him."

"And your faith in Caesar is misplaced. I have it on good authority that Caesar plans to proclaim himself emperor on the Ides of March. And then you will have to choose between Caesar and Ro-"

"No, Caesar would never do that," he protested. "I'm his friend. He would never betray me like that."

"Yes, he calls you his 'friend.' Well, Crassus was a good friend...and I was once a very good friend." I sat down on a fine upholstered Persian chair. "And once he's rid of Pompey, how long do you think it will take for him to be rid of his 'good friend' Brutus, eh?"

Brutus took a moment to digest what I had said. "Go on." He nodded at me to continue.

"You, Brutus, are an honourable man. If Caesar were removed from power before he consolidated his support in the Senate and the army, you would see Rome returned to its former greatness as a democracy."

Brutus nodded slowly. "So, you want to support me in a coup against Caesar and help me take control," he said with certainty.

"No," I replied.

"No?" Brutus sounded surprised.

"No," I reiterated. "Whoever takes singular control of Rome after Caesar will be faced with the monumental task of reorganising the government. The people will face hardship initially and will not look favourably upon their new ruler.

"On the other hand, the second ruler..." I let the sentence trail.

Understanding dawned on his face. "You think I should let Pompey rule?"

"Who better to make a complete mess of it? He's a more than competent military leader, I'll grant you, but ruler of Rome? No."

"And what's in it for you?"

"We'd both have a powerful ally and friend."

"And you'd be rid of Caesar."

I shrugged. "Call it benefit of the circumstances."

Brutus pondered the proposal I'd made for a minute or two. "Sounds like an intriguing proposition."

"Think about it," I said and stood up to leave. I paused by the door. "Of course, it would benefit you if you distanced yourself from Pompey's rule. A diplomatic posting to Corinth would be far enough away to avoid sharing the blame for Pompey's mistakes, but close enough to come back quickly and take control."

"What if Pompey has other ideas?"

"I'm a powerful neighbour that he'd want to keep happy. I think I can persuade him that you would make an excellent ambassador to Corinth."

I bid him farewell and was almost out of the door when he spoke.

"And if Pompey should be reluctant to leave power..."

"Without the support of the Roman people, he would have no choice," I replied simply.

The meeting had gone better than expected. Brutus had seemed genuinely sold on the idea of leaving Pompey in charge and coming back to Corinth with me. However, I didn't allow myself to get cocky. I remembered that Brutus was not to be underestimated.

~~~~~

Gabrielle accompanied me to the banquet Caesar held in my honour. I felt more at ease knowing she was with me. She seemed quite relaxed, despite the events of earlier in the day, and attacked the array of food with gusto.

I stood back from the table and enjoyed the sight of my advisor getting her fill of delicacies. A few guests engaged her in conversation, and judging from their reactions, she charmed them immensely. When Caesar approached her, I felt a tightening in my stomach and moved closer.

"I apologise for suggesting you be flogged earlier on," he said to her in his most charming voice.

"I apologise for disturbing the meeting," replied Gabrielle.

"So, what is it you do for Xena?"

"I am her civilian affairs advisor."

"Oh really. It's hard to believe you hold such a high position within Xena's court."

"Why do you say that?"

Caesar smiled. "I would have thought a young woman like yourself would have been crushed by Xena's-"

Caesar's smile froze as he noticed me step up behind Gabrielle.

"Crushed by my what?" I challenged.

"By your beauty, of course," he replied with feigned charm. "Though it might be you who is crushed by her..." The consul allowed himself a lecherous look up and down Gabrielle's body, "...fragile beauty."

He moved past Gabrielle and paused to whisper in my ear. "Remember how much it hurts to be betrayed by the one you love?"

If I thought I could have got away with it, I'd have strangled him with my bare hands right then and there. Instead, I watched in angry silence as he walked away to circulate with the other guests.

"What did he say to you?"

I turned to face her. She had a spot of sauce on the corner of her mouth that was just begging to be kissed away. I resisted and used my thumb instead.

"It doesn't look good when my advisor speaks to a member of the Triumvirate with food all over her face," I joked.

"Sorry," she ducked her head as her cheeks reddened.

"It's alright." I lifted her chin and smiled. "Just be careful around Caesar."

"I will. You were right, there is something about him. Some sort of...I don't know...it just pulls you in."

"Yes," I replied. Just like you, I thought.

Her eyes widened as a slave girl walked by with a tray. Gabrielle breathed in deeply. "Was that nut bread?" she asked excitedly, and hurried off after the tray.

Gabrielle had just cornered the slave when Pompey came up to me. Even before he spoke, I knew he was going to request a new time and place for our meeting. He needed to show his control of the situation.

"I have chambers in the North wing," he whispered. "I'll see you there after this banquet. Come alone or, better yet, bring your advisor. I'm sure she would be very… entertaining."

As much as I would have enjoyed teaching Pompey some manners, I let his lewd insinuation about Gabrielle go. He was trying to bait me, and I couldn't allow myself to rise to it.

~~~~~

When I was shown into the room, I found Pompey lounging on a couch near the fire with a large goblet of wine in his hand. He seemed a bit disappointed that I had turned up alone.

"You didn't bring your advisor with you. Pity." He gestured for me to join him on the couch. "Never mind," he said, as I moved towards him, "I'd prepared for that eventuality."

He snapped his fingers, and a slave stepped out from behind a curtain. The slave was six feet tall, well muscled, and exquisitely handsome.

"He's a fine specimen," I said to Pompey, "but I want you all to myself tonight."

A hopeful look spread across his face, and he gestured for the slave to leave. I settled on the arm of the couch and ran my fingers through his hair. Pompey pulled his head away.

"I think we both know why you're here," he confidently declared. "You want Caesar dead." He put his goblet on a nearby table.

"And for you to govern Rome for me," I added.

Pompey sat upright and looked at me. "What? What makes you think I can't govern Rome for myself?" he asked incredulously.

"You wouldn't have positioned your men to protect me if you didn't need my help." I picked up the goblet Pompey had placed on the table and made a show of drinking from it.

He smiled coyly. "Okay, so I need your help. But I still want Rome."

I stood up and walked towards the fireplace. "You're a soldier, Pompey, not a politician. I'll allow you a certain amount of autonomy, and I'll even let the people of Rome think you're their ruler. But you'll rule for me."

"And if I don't accept your terms?"

"There are other members of the Triumvirate who could rule."

There was a burst of sarcastic laughter from Pompey.

"Did I say something funny?" I fixed him with an icy stare.

"Brutus is a jumped-up scribe and nothing more."

"He's a damn-sight better politician than you'll ever be."

Pompey pouted at my reproach.

"If you try to rule Rome without my help, you'll fail, and then Brutus will be your most likely successor."

"Not if I kill him first."

I grabbed a candlestick from the mantelpiece and hurled it at Pompey. It ruffled his hair as it sailed passed his ear. I had aimed to miss. He stared back at me in stunned silence.

"Do I have your attention now?" I asked him bluntly.

He nodded slowly.

"Good! I've had plenty of opportunity to kill all three of you today, and the only reason I haven't is you are more useful to me alive than dead."

I moved towards a table laden with fruits and wine. I plucked a grape and slowly took it into my mouth with my tongue. "If you kill Caesar, great! You've eliminated your main rival for power, but he has the loyal support of ten legions that fought for him in Gaul. If you kill Brutus too, you're going to have his supporters in the Senate to deal with, as well as his supporters within the army. If you do the mathematics, you'll find your reign will be short-lived."

"So what do you propose I do?" He scowled slightly as he was starting to accept he needed my help.

"You enlist Brutus's help in getting rid of Caesar. Faced with united opposition, Caesar's supporters will switch allegiance or flee."

"What if they switch allegiance to Brutus?"

"You have greater respect among the army than Brutus. You're recognised as arguably the greatest military commander Rome has ever had. You have charisma and presence, all the qualities that Brutus is lacking. Whom do you think the army is going to favour?"

As before, when his ego was stroked, Pompey became nauseatingly prissy. His chest puffed out, a smug smile curled his lips, and his eyes wandered to the nearest reflective surface to catch a glimpse of himself. It was stomach turning to witness, but in that state he would believe anything he was told.

"Brutus may provide a useful ally," I continued. "I'm sure you can convince him you're the better man to pacify the army and take over the leadership of Rome."

"Yes, I can do that." He hesitated a moment. "But won't Brutus realise you're in control?"

At last he had accepted that I would be in control.

"Offer him a post. You'll need an ambassador in Corinth. If I keep him close to me, he can be kept in the dark about my true involvement. If he becomes suspicious or troublesome, then an accident could be arranged."

Pompey climbed to his feet. "What help do I get from you, exactly?"

"Once Caesar is out of the way, you will have my full support. I will have Brutus in Corinth and an invasion army on the border to persuade the Senate to name you Rome's new ruler. I will appoint my own people as your political advisors to handle imperial matters, but you will be the figurehead.

"You expect me to just stand on balconies and wave at the people?"

"Think of it as a similar situation to that in Egypt. Cleopatra sits on her throne being worshipped by her people as if she was a god incarnate, but we both know who holds the real power. In this case, that would be me. And to show my faith in your abilities, you can follow through with Caesar's plan to subjugate Gaul and Britannia. I may as well have them while I'm about it."

"You just want me to fight your wars," he said with more than a hint of petulance.

"It's what you're good at," I snapped back. "You won't hold ultimate power in Rome, but I'm allowing you to have the next best thing: the glory."

He was sold; I could see it in his eyes. Great conquests awaited him, even if they were ultimately in my name. If he succeeded in removing Caesar, and I had no doubt that he would, then I'd let him have his moments of glory, but not too many - and not for long.


Continued in Part 5