Inside the staircase, Julie pondered again how difficult it was going to be to stop the encroaching evil in the world. She couldn't believe they had apparently failed in their mission to rid the world of the menacing god that had threatened the time. She walked down towards the earth to rest her weary mind and to think about what was to happen next.

The next few hours went by quickly. Julie made her way down to earth and gazed around, getting her bearings straight once again in present day earth. The feelings of imminent doom for herself was gone but she could still feel the evil presence about. The ache in her bones, that she had known meant she might not make it back to this time, had finally subsided after she had saved the boy, the warriors son, Solon, her great great grandfather.

Joseph, meanwhile, stayed on Olympus, gathering information from the gods on what had transpired since they had gone back in time and tossed around ideas on why they were not successful in their attempt to stop the dark god Dahok. Julie, finally fed up with waiting around at the bottom of the great Mount Olympus, climbed back up through the secret entrance and found Joseph, Zeus, Athena, Ares and a few other gods still talking and planning their next move. Ares for his part was behaving even when Julie came bursting into the gods home thoroughly irritated. They exchanged glances but didn't say anything.

"What is taking so long?" Julie asked annoyed.

"What do you mean sis?" replied Joseph looking up from a 3-D view of the world that had red markings on it. They had been so involved in there discussion they had lost track of all time.

"We're back, according to Zeus here, we didn't get the job done. So when we going back again?" she asked still slightly agitated but her brother's calm words had done much to calm her.

"As soon as you are ready young one," answered Zeus cutting off Joseph before he could answer.

"Alright, Xena, Gabrielle and Solon, here we come," Julie replied enthusiastically.

"Wait just a second. After what we did, going back in time and making sure that Solon did not die, you're telling us that is was all for not??" asked Joseph in the tone of voice that gave Julie the understanding that he had asked this several times before.

"I'm sorry my son, but there must have been something else that you missed," replied Zeus scratching his beard.

"Bullshit!! It had to have had some affect on Dahok," shot back Joseph clearly not convinced.

"If there was an affect, it was minimal," replied Athena.

"Well, there's only one way to answer that question now is there?" said Joseph with a slight smile on his face.

"No! I forbid this, you tried once and it nearly killed you. To attempt it again would be foolhardy," stormed Zeus knowing his son had a stubborn streak

"Oh? Have any of you tried it?" asked Joseph as he looked around at the surrounding gods and goddesses.

They didn't answer and that gave Joseph the answer. Instead their silence spoke volumes. He did not know why they were so scared of this god. Unbeatable as it seemed, their in-action made him angry.

"Well then, I guess someone better make sure before we go gallivanting thru time again," he said as he walked passed them and toward Julie.

"Um?I've obviously missed a lot but you're not going to do what I think you're going to do are you?" Julie asked puzzled.

"We've got to try. I want to you to stay here until I get back. You'll be the safer here than down on earth. If Dahok is still alive, he must know what we tried and quite possibly of your connection to the whole thing," Joseph whispered so only Julie could hear.

She nodded in agreement and gave her big brother a hug.

"Alright, you take care. I'll be back as soon as I send Dahok six ways from Sunday," Joseph smirked as he flew off from Mount Olympus in a westerly direction. He knew it might not work but he did not really care, this earth was his to protect and he would do that and preserve his family at all costs. It made no sense if Hope was really dead that Dahok was still here and at full strength.

"He is very brave?and very foolish at the same time," spoke up Ares as the gods and goddesses once again turned their attention toward the 3-D projection of earth.

"Oh shut up Ares!" Julie remarked still angry with the god of war. "What are those red marks?" asked Julie brushing off Ares.

"They are where Dahok has appeared. As you can see, he is marching his way toward Japan. Obviously, to gain more followers," answered Zeus as he pointed to a bright red dot moving along China.

"You think we did any good at all?" asked Julie as she looked up from the projection.

"I hope so," responded Zeus "I hope so."

Joseph flew through the air fast and with determination. The memories of what he and his sister had recently gone through circled through his head as did what he was about to attempt to do. If in fact, Dahok was still at the same level he was when he encountered him the last time, this could lead to another very short fight. However, if they have had any impact on Dahok's current state, he might actually stand a chance. But he would have to have a different game plan instead of going power for power with the god as he did the last time they tangled.

Over Turkey, past Afghanistan, and over the great Himalayan Mountain Range, Joseph flew faster anxiously awaiting the sight of the immense challenge that he would be facing. Joseph looked down on the countryside and began to see the scenery shift from mountains to rice fields. He could only guess that he was now in China. Joseph started searching for any signs of the dark one, Dahok.

After several minutes of intense searching, Joseph saw a sight that sickened him. Joseph slowly came upon the legendary Great Wall. However, it looked nothing like the pictures of it he had seen. Instead of one great stretch of wall, a huge section was crumbled and destroyed. Ancient stone work lay everywhere, spread over acres. The destruction was mammoth and the monument of the great accomplishment of all those men and women who gave it there sweat, blood, tears, and lives was now in rubble. The brave people who had accomplished this wonder of the world were now surely turning in their graves

"My god," Joseph shuddered as he looked around at the chaos and the clutter of people running around down below.

Then something caught his eye. A slight shimmer that appeared out off in the north just in the corner of his line of view. He looked toward the north to see its origin and found what he was looking for. There, in the far distance, was a giant of a beast slowly heaving its large body around as if it was trying to cause as much damage as possible. The large dragon was enormous, and its golden form shown in the suns true rays reflecting off the yellow scales. The carnage it left in its wake was devastating.

"Alright you big son-of-a-bitch, its time to meet your maker!" shouted Joseph as he shot off toward the monster in a hurry.

However, Joseph seemed to approach the monster unnoticed. The large, golden dragon didn't acknowledge his presence nor did it stray from its damaging methods.

"Let's see if this gets your attention," Joseph said as he stopped several hundred yards away from the beast.

Joseph quickly charged up a rather large energy ball. Allowing it to get to the size of a large beach ball Joseph kept pumping in more and more energy. The bright blue essence of the ball of the energy glowed brightly. After several moments of concentrating he let the energy ball go right at the back of the giant, golden dragon.

The energy ball flew through the air and before the giant dragon could see what was coming, it hit the great back of the beast with a thunderous impact. Smoke filled the air as Joseph waited to see the result of his attack. Joseph stayed where he was, waiting and watching. Looking for any sign of movement from the giant beast from within the plume of smoke and dust.

He didn't see movement, but what he heard answered his question just the same. An ear-piercing roar emerged from the smoke and haze. Joseph knew he had finally gotten the attention of the beast. Finally, the great, golden dragon's head emerged from the dust cloud.

From the smoke, the mighty beast slowly emerged, its body taking up over 6 city blocks, glistening in the bright light. From what Joseph saw, the beast's power had not diminished since they had last tangled. And now the creature, as dangerous as it was before, was now livid with anger. It oozed evil energy that he could sense with his powers.

"Alright you overgrown lizard! Time for round two!" shouted Joseph as he charged off toward the golden dragon.

The dragon went on the offense immediately launching balls of orange and yellow fire at the half-god.

"Look out and shout! Owwww!!" hollered Joseph seeming as if he was enjoying dodging the fire blasts in mid-air as he crept closer and closer to the beast.

Joseph was very close now and the blasts were becoming more rampant. Joseph flew past Dahok, firing another blast into its back. Quickly dodging a tail swipe, he fired another and another both aimed at Dahok's legs. None of the three blasts seemed to do any damage. The monster had a seemingly impenetrable hide.

Joseph kept up the pressure, buzzing around Dahok like a fly firing energy blast after energy blast all the while dodging tail swings, kicks, fire blasts and even the occasional punch. But for all his effort, he could tell he was getting no-where, and only served to madden the dragon further. Throughout the battle the damage was mounting around them on the country side below and the people who had been occupying the field before hand were now long gone or very dead.

"Damnit! What the hell does it take to bring you down!" shouted a frustrated Joseph as he flew high around the monster's head.

"Oh shi?" Joseph started but was cut off as the monster leapt straight up into the air and caught him in his powerful but short arms. Joseph felt the fingers wrap tighter and tighter around him with every second pushing the air out from his body. Dahok looked down at him and a big smile sneered across its lips.

"Little godling, you are nothing to me. When will you learn this?" roared the beast as its grip tightened even more.

Joseph could feel his lower ribs starting to bend and crack. He felt a pop and another pop and surmised from the excruciated pain that was encompassing his body that his ribs were now breaking and if he didn't do something now to escape, he wouldn't live to tell the tale.

"H?Hey big guy. Don't you know the ke?gasp?key to a fight is in the?ack?eyes!" struggled Joseph as the dragon peered down at his victim.

"What?" Dahok asked as it leaned closer.

"You heard me!" answered Joseph as his eyes suddenly glowed white and shot out an energy blast impacting the dragon directly in the face causing it to drop him and stumble backwards.

Forcing the pain out of his mind, Joseph quickly, but painfully, put some distance between him and Dahok. He stopped several hundred yards away, tenderly gripping his sides. He could actually feel where the ribs were broken as each breathe grew more and more difficult. He remembered from Julie's tending one time that she had been afraid of a broken rib puncturing something. This possibility was becoming more and more fact.

"You are nothing!!! You shall die!!!" thundered Dahok as it finally recovered from the blast and looked around for his foe.

"Huh?.ugh?He?Hehe?Hahaha! We shall see demon!!!" retorted Joseph as he charged forward with all his might. Dahok saw this and did the same. The impact was awesome, resulting in a great explosion of light and sound. Joseph's world went black.

"Ugh?what happened?" asked Joseph as he sat up rubbing his head. He was in a bed up top Mount Olympus but his wounds had made taking in the surrounding difficult.

"You are a bonehead, you do know that right?" asked a familiar voice with a very worried and tense.

"Wha?Julie, how did?You got to get out of here, Dahok will kill?" Joseph stammered as he tried to get to his feet. His loss of time had not caught up with him yet and the urge to protect his sister took over.

"Shut up. Once again, you were used as a mop by Dahok. You're very lucky this time bro. We barely got there in time. Zeus says you were in worse shape than the first time around," cut off Julie pushing her brother back down into the bed.

"Wha? Then, where am I?" Joseph asked giving in and laying back down.

"Once again, you are on Olympus my son," came the strong, booming voice of Zeus, just annoyed as his sister's.

"As you can tell, your trip back in time did nothing to weaken Dahok's power. It would seem as if all hope is lost," spoke up Athena as she took a step forward.

"No?it can't be," responded Joseph as he felt his bandages around his waist. The pain was quite bearable considering what he knew his body had been through. He was pleasantly surprised.

"The Fates!! They told us what to do the first time, surely they can tell us something to do this time!" exclaimed Julie as the idea suddenly dawned on her.

"Perhaps, but any chance is very slim now," answered Zeus.

"But a chance is a chance no matter how small," uttered Joseph.

"I'll go. Bro, just tell me where they are," urged Julie standing up.

"Alright," replied Joseph as he went into detail about where the location of the cave of the Fates lay. Julie was quick to depart and descend down the golden ladder that lead the way up to Olympus from the secret entrance. She walked quiet a long time around the foot of the great mountain. Their cave was well hidden from the mortal world, she passed it twice before she found it. She finally found herself in front of the cave entrance.

"Well, this should be interesting," she murmured to herself as she took a step inside.

The teen looked inside the small cavern where she stood. She sensed gods near by and she knew she was in the right place. She followed a tunnel into the mountain for quite some ways. It was a dry tunnel that lowered to where her head almost touched the roof at times and at other times opened up into large caverns that were over a football field wide and as tall as a two story building. The tunnel was the only one there was so she followed it till its end. Julie found her way to the deepest part of the cave where she found the Fates. All around them were great tapestries of woven lifelines, and they were busy making more. They seemed not to notice her walk in on their secret chamber. They were busy with there loom and did not bother to acknowledge the mortal.

"Uh?excuse me, but you are the Fates right?" nervously asked Julie as she took a small step forward into the room.

"Names are titles and titles are given by those who believe they are entitled. If you believe in those who have believed they were entitled then the Fates would be our name," all three women responded at once in a monotone voice not stirring or even looking away from their work.

"Uh?ok. Um?I've come to ask you?" started Julie before she was cut off.

"You have come searching for hope. Hope for a chance, a second chance to deter thee efforts of the dark one. You failed at your first chance and perhaps it was your best. Your only alternative at this point is very slim?very slim indeed," spoke the three. The maiden, the mother and the crone continued there spinning and weaving.

"That's what Zeus said. But you are telling me there is a chance?" asked Julie with a shed of hope in her tone.

"The spawn of the dark one still exists. Accompanied by the madness, the illusion of one equals two," responded the three women as they worked unrelenting.

"What?" asked Julie puzzled by their answer.

However, the Fates did not respond, they merely continued with the fine workings of what Julie could only guess was more lifelines.

"Any hint at all? Can ya at least repeat that?" urged Julie.

But still the Fates did not answer. Julie quickly recalled what they had said, pulled out a piece of paper from her pocket and wrote what the Fates had said down.

"Hope someone can understand this. Joseph said these three were weird but this is beyond weird," Julie said to herself as she started back out of the cave.

A few hours later, Julie arrived back on Olympus to see that her brother had managed to get back to his feet. He was walking about tentatively testing the limits of his now healing body.

"Its about time," Joseph greeted.

"Shut up, you didn't tell me how deep that stupid cave went," replied Julie saucily.

"Well, what did they say?" asked Joseph.

"Uh?what a sec?ok?They said 'The spawn of the dark one still exists. Accompanied by the madness, the illusion of one equals two," answered Julie as she pulled out the small piece of paper and recited the Fates answer.

"What?" replied Joseph with a puzzled look on his face.

"That's what I said. But would they answer? Would they make it a little more clearer? Noooo! They just sat their weaving their little intricate patterns," replied Julie somewhat frustrated.

"By the way, you feeling any better?" asked Julie after a short moment of silence.

"Much better. Now, let's think on this. The spawn of the dark one obviously refers to Hope?damn that stupid bard! She didn't do the job! She lied to us!" shouted Joseph as he smacked his fist in his hand. He did not like Gabrielle one bit, he had put up with her for Xena's and Julie's sake last time because it was their family. But he swore to himself it she didn't do what she was supposed to have done and this future was the result, she was going to be the first to go down in their path to Dahok.

"God Damnit Joseph, you saw the pyre! Could anyone have survived that?! I doubt it! PLUS if she had lied, Xena would have known stupid. There soul bonded, they can't hide anything from each other. Gabrielle did it alright, Hope is just coming back on her own power or daddies power more like it. Quit picking on her already!!!" fiercely retorted Julie. It had pissed her off immensely that he would insinuate such a thing about their family like that. Like it or not, the bard was apart of the whole mess and she wasn't going anywhere that was for sure.

"Ah?whatever," Joseph responded brushing away the comment as he threw his hands in the air. He knew the argument was lost on his sister.

There was another moment of silence as everyone pondered over the Fates' riddle.

"What do you think the second part means about 'the illusion of one equals two'?" softly asked Julie seeing that Joseph's temper was being barely kept in check. Even though she was upset she went to her brother and put a hand on his arm.

"I don't know. Do any of you know?" asked Joseph turning to the gods.

Sorrowful looks and downed heads answered his question. The gods were just as clueless as they were on this one.

"Hmph! Great. Well sis, looks like we have another time-traveling, fun filled adventure in front of us," slightly smiled Joseph as his eyes became softer and Julie could see his heated temper was fizzling.

"You mean it! I get to see Xena and Gabrielle again! Alright!" shouted Julie as she jumped up in the air in excitement.

"Yeah, yeah. Just remember, we got that lovely time travel ride to go on," smirked Joseph as he saw Julie's expression turn from elated to one of dread for the upcoming ride. Julie gave her brother a sour look for mentioning it.

"I should warn you two. We can only send you back in time once more. You must put a stop to Dahok in the past this time or else we will have to deal with him in the present. There will be no more going back to fix things after this," warned Zeus as he pulled out two more brown colored rocks from inside his robes.

"Gotch ya. Don't worry, we'll get him this time," assured Joseph as he took the rocks and put them in his pants' pockets.

"The future depends on you now more than ever my son. Finish the dark one and make all our future's bright once again," answered Zeus as he put a hand on Joseph's shoulder.

"Will we be going back to the same day in which we left?" asked Julie.

"No, I do not see why that would be necessary. I'm going to send you back two months into the future from the day you left.. If this Xena and Gabrielle you mentioned have a hand in this, they'll be able to bring you up to speed with what has occurred since you last left. Hopefully, the four of you can finally put an end to this menace," answered Zeus. Joseph nodded.

"Ok. Well, we do need some provisions this time we didn't have on hand last time," he said making a mental list.

"Can't you just zap 'em here bro?" Julie asked. Joseph nodded again. A few things appeared in front of him.

"Ok, your chobos...I knew you'd want those. A few daggers from my collection and two for you I want you to take Julie. And finally your bear," he grinned holding up a teddy bear, "and of course my best sword."

"Hey! Give me that!" Julie hissed as she snatched the teddy bear out of Joseph's hands, her face now a cherry red with embarrassment.

"Sorry, I'll put it back where I found it," laughed Joseph as the stuffed animal vanished from Julie's grip.

"Well, what we waiting for?" asked Julie excited once again at the thought of seeing her ancient ancestors again and trying to take everyone's mind off the teddy bear.

"Exactly. Zeus, open the portal, and let's get this time-traveling tango started," smirked Joseph as he took the bandages off and put on his shirt.

"Very well then. Good luck," replied Zeus as, with some effort, he opened the multi-colored portal. Joseph jumped in first, Julie second and with some reluctance at the thought of the ride. Seconds later, they had crash landed back in ancient Greece rolling to a stop in the middle of another forest. Julie was immediately on her feet and looking.

"Bush to your right," pointed out Joseph as Julie hightailed it over to the bush just in time to loose her lunch.

Joseph straightened up, brushed the dirt and leaves off himself and looked around. Once again they were in a forested area, but he could tell that it was not the same as before. After a minute he went toward where he heard his sister being sick.

"Ew! You think I'll ever get the hang of that?" asked Julie as she appeared from behind the bush wiping her mouth with her sleeve.

"At the rate your going, I don't think so. But hopefully, this will be the last time we have to do that," responded Joseph as he continued to scan the area as he put a hand on her shoulder.

"Shut up. Where do you think we are?" she asked now joining her brother in looking around.

"How should I know? We're obviously back in Greece, where else would Zeus send us. But other than that I have no idea. We should find a local village and see where we're at," suggested Joseph as he looked around. They were in a clearing and he could hear water in the distance which was a good thing, it meant that there was probably a village around somewhere close. He started to kneel down and collect their belongings as they did last time. Their bed rolls were intact and all their camping accessories were together already with the cooking wear along with odd and end pouches tied to them full of food, medicinal herbs, fire starting material, and a 2 sets of extra clothing each.

"Good idea. Uh, which way?" Julie asked.

"Well, telling by the sun, that's west and that's east. Making that north and south," pointed out Joseph as he looked up at the sun through the trees.

"You there! Rejoice, for thou has been selected to become one with Dahok!" shouted a man dressed in a dark robe that was long and flowing with red lining that wrapped around the neck and came down the center of the front. The man came into the clearing accompanied by two others dressed the same. Both Joseph and Julie knew this was going to probably end up in a fight so they released all their belongings on to the ground making it easier to move.

"Nice hats," Joseph remarked pointing to the oddly black pointed hats the three men were wearing. He laughed to himself. The men seemed not to notice.

"Now, we will accompany you back to the temple," ushered the lead robed man as he reached out a hand toward Julie.

"I don't think so!" barked Julie as she quickly slapped the man's hand away and took a defensive posture.

"Insolent one! You shall be among the first to be sacrificed to Dahok," revealed the man as the two other men stepped forward, both a little larger than the third one.

"Ooooo?such big words from a man dressed as silly as you," laughed Joseph pretending to laugh and double over. Julie did not like the situation at all and it was pissing her off to no end that these clowns would assume anyone would just come with them.

"For that you shall die!!!" shouted the man.

"I'll take this one bro. Anyone dressed as funny as that can't be too hard," smirked Julie as she pulled out her chobos from the criss cross holster on her back.

"Take her alive! Kill the other!" ordered the man as the two other men stepped forward.

Joseph calmly meandered to a nearby tree and leaned against it examining his fingernails.

Julie readied herself with one leather clad chobo in one hand and another in the other hand. These chobos, unlike the previous ones she had had when she came back in time, were from her personal collection. Completely wrapped in a dark brown leather, and with a black grip of wraped leather thong on the ends, the two foot long fighting sticks were simply her best weapon and how she loved using them. The first robed man charged hard, throwing a round house right to Julie's face. Julie easily ducked the attack and countered with a sharp blow to the abdomen. Julie quickly spun around and followed it up with a strong, backhand-uppercut that sent the man head over heals and landing face first on the ground with a thud. However, during the short fight, Julie lost track of the second assailant as he wrapped his rather large arms around her putting her in a reverse bear hug.

Julie gasped for a quick breathe making the man think that he had her. However, to Julie, this was self-defense 101. She reared back delivering a head butt to his face instantly causing him to break the hold and stagger backwards holding his nose. Turning to face her opponent, Julie unleashed a flurry of blows to all parts of the body, finishing off the would-be attacker with a double jab of the chobos to the face that sent him flying backwards.

Julie, satisfied that the second one was down for the count turned to face the talkative one.

"Tell me pointy?Do you feel lucky?" smirked Julie as she drew one chobo in front of her face and another across her body.

"Uh?um?." stammered the now trembling man.

"Better make up your mind fast. She's a little impatient and it'll only hurt more the longer you wait," chimed in Joseph still observing little imperfections in his nails.

"Uh?You'll pay for this!" shouted the man as he ran off, causing his pointed hat to fall off.

"Hmph! So much for a good fight," huffed Julie as she relaxed as looked down on the other men.

"Remind me to tell you next time not to knock them out. We don't have time to wait for them to wake up to interrogate them," joked Joseph as he finally strode over to observe Julie's handiwork.

"You always notice some stupid thing don't you?" asked Julie annoyed with the comment.

"Its what I do best sis?now, if they were out looking for sacrifices, we can't be too far from their temples," observed Joseph as he looked in the direction where the man ran.

"Shhh?you hear that?" asked Julie now becoming very still. Joseph followed suit as they stood listening. Joseph didn't quite hear anything yet, but knew they could rely on her senses. They walked a few paces toward the sounds that Julie heard as she moved forward.

"Yeah, sounds like voices. Coming from that way!" acknowledged Joseph as he pointed through the woods to a clearing after he finally heard them when they had gotten closer.

"Let's go," spoke Julie as both of them instantly darted toward the clearing Julie in the lead.

As they came upon the clearing they could see, several yards away, three people. Two of which Julie recognized instantly. "Its Xena and Gabrielle!" gasped Julie happily as she looked on. Xena was talking to Gabrielle and a smaller blond was seated on a log.

"Great?blondy is still alive," groaned Joseph peering out through the thicket. Making his opinion of her known audibly.

"Shut up!" retorted Julie as she gave him a quick elbow to the ribs.

"Alright already. Who's the other one though?" asked Joseph as they began to walk out of the timber.

"Don't know, but I bet we're going to find out," replied Julie as they edged closer.

"That's the third group we've seen. They're all headed the same way," they heard Gabrielle mention as they got closer.

"Toward Dahok's holy ground," replied Xena.

"Don't you think we should help them?" asked Gabrielle looking down at the group of about twenty or so men, women and children who were being escorted by several men in black robes with red trim. They all knew that the groups were headed toward sacrificing. As they continued looking over the cliff down below at the gathering of innocents by the temple worshipers, Julie and Joseph were coming closer.

"No, there must be hundreds of groups like these being brought to slaughter from all over. We can't liberate them all. We'll save more people if we get to the source of the problem and snuff it out," answered Xena as she continued to observe the group.

"You're gonna try using me again to betray my god, aren't you?! Well, you know what? I can't let you!" shrieked the unknown, short blonde haired woman as she jerked up from where she sat and to both Joseph's and Julie's astonishment dove off the cliff.

"Holy shit!" exclaimed Joseph as the two started to run toward their friends as they watched Xena instinctively dive off after the blonde woman.

"No!" they heard the blonde woman yell.

"I gotcha!" Xena spoke up as she evidentially caught her mid air.

"Let me go!" shrieked the voice of the woman. Xena was now clutching hold of a root protruding out of the cliff.

"Stay still!" Xena told the squirming woman she was holding on to tenaciously. Suddenly Callisto appeared behind the bard and Xena couldn't' see her or her soul mate. "Gabrielle. Gabrielle!!" came Xena's voice from out of eyesight.

However, Gabrielle didn't respond. As Joseph and Julie rushed to help they saw Callisto toss Gabrielle away to the right far enough from the ledge to let her have access to where Xena was hanging precariously. Gabrielle landed with a thud a few feet away. The fall temporarily knocked her into a faint.

"Tend to Gabrielle, I'll handle her!" ordered Joseph as the siblings separated.

Julie went to Gabrielle's side and pulled her head in her lap. She examined for any bumps or bruises and found non very significant. The bard came around quickly but a dizzy spell kept her on the ground with Julie. Once she figured out who was helping her she gave the girl a smile but her attention was quickly drawn to Callisto and Joseph.

"Why, hello there, Xena. How will you ever get out of this one?" smirked Callisto as Joseph saw her lording over the edge with her back to him.

"Back off bitch!" roared Joseph as he got within a few feet of the evil goddess.

"You!" sneered Callisto as she turned to see the man who had helped defeat her the last time she tried to rid the world of Xena.

"Callisto!" shouted Gabrielle, now fully on her feet running toward the goddess. The bard had collected her staff on her way up to a standing position and held it in front of her as she charged Callisto. Gabrielle attacked with her staff but Callisto caught the blow and threw Gabrielle several yards away. Julie quickly went to Gabrielle's side again. As she skidded to a halt beside where Gabrielle laid flat on her back, once again she bent down to look at her. This time Gabrielle didn't black out and the teen helped her to her feet. Julie held a hand on her arm though as Joseph neared Callisto. Julie knew that her brother was going to engage her and didn't want either her or her friend in the way.

"An 'A' for distance but the landing didn't have the affect I had hoped," critiqued Joseph once again gaining Callisto's attention.

"Oh really, well I'll just have to make the necessary improvements when I throw you around," smiled Callisto turning to face him.

"I'm looking forward to it," said Joseph returning the smile.

However, at that moment Callisto, Joseph, Gabrielle, and Julie heard the warrior cry that was all to familiar. Up from over the edge flew the blonde woman who Joseph and Julie had seen jump of it minutes before. Xena had heaved the woman and basically threw her with all her might to safety. A few seconds later, Xena came flipping back unto the cliff ready to fight.

"Well done, Xena. I'm not here to fight with you, Xena. Just wanna chat," informed Callisto with a suddenly pleasant tone.

"Huh?!" gasped both Joseph and Julie at the same time.

"Let me guess. Things didn't work out with Hope quite the way you expected," sneered Xena still waiting for Callisto to make a move. Xena looked relaxed but Gabrielle could tell she was as taught as a bow string. Gabrielle had gone over to help up the other blonde and took a hold of her arm so she could keep her there. Xena and Gabrielle exchanged looks to make sure the other was all right. The love that flowed between them reassured them both.

"No, actually, the sight of her and Ares rolling around like weasels made me sick," admitted Callisto as she twirled her fingers. Gabrielle and Julie had sick looks on their faces. Xena was placid.

"Talk about fast," coughed Joseph. Julie and Xena shot him an incredulous look. He took in Julie's look and shrugged his apology.

"Hope and Ares?" spoke up Gabrielle.

"Oh yes, Gabrielle. It seems your daughter is in heat," informed Callisto with a sick look to her face.

"Ew?gross, who would want something that came from?oh right?um?never mind," started Joseph as he quickly received two even more threatening looks from Xena and Julie. Julie knew she was going to have talk with him later. And Xena looked at him for a long minute that said the same. Gabrielle was just flat out stunned.

"So, you're switching sides?again," spoke Xena with a serious look on her face.

"For a price. I help you put Dahok back in the bottle, and you help me die. I figure you got a bead on that hind's-blood dagger. Hercules probably told you where it was," replied Callisto with an evil smile.

Joseph and Julie both exchanged looks of concern and interest.

"It can kill a god, you know?" sarcastically informed Callisto as she looked over as Gabrielle, Julie and the blonde woman.

"No shit," replied Julie.

"So, how about it? I scratch your back, you stab mine," asked Callisto coming within inches of Xena's face. Her tone was smooth as velvet but madness exuded from it.

"What's the matter? Existence getting to be a bit of a burden?" asked Xena, her bright blue eyes now stern and cold. She kept Gabrielle in the corner of her vision at all times. She scanned her senses for any ambushes. Callisto it seemed was genuine in her plight but it was too little to late for Xena.

"Yes honestly. I yearn for oblivion. Annihilation. Peace, if you will," answered Callisto looking up at the sky.

"You helped that demon try to kill my family. You think I'm gonna help you find peace?" replied the angered warrior princess.

"Then I'll just go back and do Hope's bidding," taunted Callisto, again face to face with Xena. The four looking on at the two women fighters one god one mortal, thought a battle was imminent. Xena was unbending in her decision and Callisto seemed desperate in her asking. Two dangerous opposing forces.

"Do that. We've beaten you before, we can beat you again," retorted Xena, her eyes becoming now ice remembering there recent run in.

"Seraphin!!" shouted Gabrielle as suddenly the blonde woman rushed off toward the near by timber. She had yanked her arm free from the bards hand and made a run for it.

"I'll get her!" volunteered Julie as she started off after her. Gabrielle wasn't far behind her.

"Let her go! She'll only slow us down. She's doomed anyway if we can't stop Hope," shouted Xena causing both Julie and Gabrielle to stop in their tracks, and turn around.

Joseph could see Julie wanting to argue the point but motioned with his arm to come back and not to act on it.

"May you live forever," commented Xena as she walked away from Callisto.

Xena went to Gabrielle. Xena instinctively took her into a hug to try and lessen the pain coming thru the link from her bard. She wasn't very happy with Joseph's remarks either but they could wait till later. Both of them started walking in the same direction that the woman named Seraphin had run off, with Xena's arm around her partners shoulders. Julie and Joseph weren't far behind them.

"Xena, what has happened?" asked Julie as both she and Joseph joined the partners.

"Hope is back. We almost killed her but Ares has joined her side," replied Xena.

"Damn?how?" asked Joseph.

"I don't know. The only thing I know is that she has become more powerful. She's even taken the appearance of Gabrielle," answered Xena content with looking straight ahead and pulling her soulmate closer.

"No?" whispered Joseph as he suddenly stopped in his tracks. Xena and Gabrielle kept on going but Julie stopped to see what was the matter when she heard her brother's soft word.

"What? What is it?" asked Julie moving to his side.

"The prophecy sis. The illusion of one equals two remember. What if that means that Gabrielle is helping Dahok," revealed Joseph still looking shocked at this development.

"She can't be! Remember, she killed Hope the last time we came back here," defended Julie as they looked up to see that Xena and Gabrielle had both stopped and had started to head back their direction. Julie knew this was gonna be trouble. 'Oh damn' she thought vehemently.

"That's just it. It all adds up. Gabrielle secretly got rid of Hope as a baby, trying to save her from Xena. When she learned she was still alive, again she tried to save her. Its not beyond reason that Gabrielle would have diluted the poison to the point where it would only knock out Hope, but not kill her. A simple arrangement for a fake funeral pyre and whala?Hope is alive. Even you must admit that this is all quite the coincidences," spoke Joseph watching carefully Xena and Gabrielle come closer.

"What are you talking about? Its just coincidence! She is not the one the Fates alluded to!!! Xena would have known!!!" pleaded Julie.

"What's going on?" asked Xena as Gabrielle and her approached the siblings. Xena was nun to happy with the hold up. She was already pissed at Julie's brother to begin with.

"Joseph isn't being himself! I think that blow to his head earlier knocked a few screws loose!" quickly replied Julie stepping between the two.

"What?" asked Gabrielle looking confused.

"That's not the question here. The question is where do your loyalties lie!" demanded Joseph as he unsheathed his sword and pointed it at Gabrielle.

"Now hold on just minute!!" fiercely shot Xena, No one, not even Julie's brother was going to hold anything sharp on HER wife. She didn't even care at the moment he was family thru Julie, her being related to Xena. She moved Gabrielle back behind her slowly and the sword was now pointed at Xena.

"Tell me Xena. Has little Gabrielle here been acting odd as of late?" asked Joseph, his eyes widening with an almost crazed look.

"What do you mean?" returned Xena very tense. Xena knew he was acting out of necessity for his own time. But she wouldn't let him hurt Gabrielle.

"Answer the question! Has she been acting odd or not?" shouted Joseph.

"Just the time when we were fighting Hope, she was trying to stop me from killing her," revealed Xena trying to figure out what Joseph was getting at.

"Exactly?every time she's been around Hope, she's acted odd. See Xena, in the future the Fates gave us another riddle.. The illusion of one equals two. Now, unless I'm mistaken, that means her! Think back Xena, see how it all adds up, see how the riddle and this situation come together!" smiled Joseph trying to get through to everyone that Gabrielle was on the wrong side. Xena heard Gabrielle on the verge of tears her being in-between her and Joseph sword was more important. Xena could here Julie becoming extremely upset to. Xena knew there was calm way out of this she was waiting for Julie to step in.

"I stopped her from killing Hope because if Xena kills Hope, Xena will die," started to cry Gabrielle.

"Likely story. You make that one up or did Hope? Maybe Ares gave you that yarn?" retorted Joseph, his eyes wide with a maddening look.

"Think about what you're saying!!! Gabrielle in cahoots with Ares and her daughter she tried to KILL?!?!?! Come on. Ares hates her as much as you do bro!! Use that watermelon you call a brain! She is not the one!! She's family!!" shouted Julie, tears also coming to her eyes. The recent developments in this stupid mission were starting to sicken her. They were turning one against the other. But Julie in all her innocence refused to believe Gabrielle capable of that. She knew both Xena's and Gabrielle's hearts and she knew better than her brother.

Callisto, listening in on this new development stood back watching in anticipation of seeing dear little Gabrielle slain.

"Joseph! Your sister is right! I believe what Gabrielle said and I've told her that Hope must be stopped no matter the cost this time! I would know if she was lying you idiot! Now if you don't sheath that sword, I'll do it for you!" shot Xena.

There was a few moments of silence. They could tell Joseph was now mulling over this. On one hand, he could put a possible stop to Hope's plan by taking Gabrielle out of the equation, but their alibi was good. What if it was just mere happenstance? Joseph thought long and hard.

Xena still stood between Julie's brother and Gabrielle. She would rather not have to decide between her wife and Joseph but the decision was already made. She knew he wasn't a bad guy, just wrapped in the mess that Hope had created so tightly that he was looking for solutions left and right, even the wrong ones. Gabrielle had leaned into her back and laid her head right behind her neck. Xena could feel the tears running down her back and the sadness that over whelmed her partner thru their link. She wrapped an arm around her back and held Gabrielle as best she could.

"Bro?please?" urged Julie putting a soft hand on his mighty arm. Her pleading tone and gentle eyes made him look at her for a second. He realized this was not the way to go about it. He had effectively upset the girl he cared about most and pissed of Xena in one foul swoop. He relented under his sisters teary gaze.

"Hmmm?fine. We'll play it your way for now. But I promise you, Gabrielle makes one move to help Hope, I'll cut her down where she stands," relinquished Joseph as he put down his sword and relaxed.

"Thank you," spoke up Xena tersely obviously relieved at Joseph's decision. He sheathed his sword on his back and turned to take the woman she loved into her arms. Xena sighed as Gabrielle's tears ran freely as she cried. This whole thing was stressful on everyone especially her partner. It had been a bad thing that happened in Britannia. This was just more terrible consequences of that. Xena was taken over by a wave of guilt about her action that had lead them there in the first place. Gabrielle was awash with so many emotions that her mind swam.

They held each other for a few minutes as they regained their bearings in the comfort of the other and the closeness of their link while Julie ran to her brother to be comforted. Julie had run into her brothers arms trying to make sense of the increasing tension between the group and she seemed to be stuck in the middle. Her brother sighed and enveloped her in a hug and kissed her forehead. It only took a moment but suddenly the world seemed right again. And the teen pulled back and looked up at her brother for a moment then smacked his arm.

"Hey what was that for?!?!" Joseph yelped, surprised at her sudden change in mood.

"For scaring the tar outta me for starters ASS! Would you like me to go on???" From this he deduced she was back to her normal self and just shook his head. He turned to start walking when two smaller arms grabbed him from behind in a hug again. He laid his arm on hers.

"I love you bro," came the muffled voice. He sighed again.

"Love you too sis," he said and patted her arm. She let go and the small girl he knew had been in those eyes were gone. She was growing up so fast, he thought. Then the two siblings returned there sights to the partners. Xena and Gabrielle finally parted. They exchanged a tender look and a soft kiss that Julie looked at with wonder and Joseph with repugnance. Julie saw the bard wipe her eyes and ran to her leaving her brother behind. Gabrielle was taken over by the younger woman's hug and she hugged her back momentarily. Xena exchanged glances with Joseph and then they both nodded. There was peace again among the group for the time being. Xena took a deep breath.

"Alright you lot," she said putting her arm around Gabrielle's shoulder. "Let's get a move on." And they all went in the direction that Seraphin had run minutes before.

As they walked, Julie was busy telling Gabrielle and Xena what had happened to Joseph when he tried to fight Dahok again. Xena and Gabrielle were walking side by side almost touching but not. They were keeping their distance now that Callisto was amongst the group. Julie jabbered on, seemingly unaffected by the evil goddess presence. Xena took this into account and chuckled to herself thinking Julie must think she was very safe with all the adults around that cared for her, she would make sure that trust was not misplaced. Joseph stayed back a few feet with Callisto a little ways behind him. Callisto was happy just to trail the group waiting for another opportunity to plead her case to Xena. Joseph didn't like the fact that their once enemy was now on their side, but he knew they needed all the help they could get, especially if Ares was on Dahok's side. Plus, Callisto at least shared his view of Gabrielle and was someone different to talk too. The hole mess bothered both Xena and Joseph much the same way, however Xena was taking a much more personal approach than Joseph.

As they walked further, Callisto hastened her pace and caught up to the three relatives. She had sensed Julie's story was over and thought it a good time to interrupt the three women. As she neared, Xena instinctively put an arm around Julie and pulled her closer and also moved into Gabrielle's side. Callisto came up along side Gabrielle.

"Look, I know about Ares' deal with the Fates. If you kill hope, you die, so after Hope dies, you're not gonna be around much longer. And we can help each other out, right? You know where that dagger is, don't you? You could just use it and do the job on me," spoke up Callisto as she was now walking beside the three other women. She looked sincere like any normal person might if they hadn't known better.

"I could, but I won't," replied Xena obviously disgusted by Callisto's mere presence. She kept her family near to her side. Joseph saw the protective measures from behind and took them in with an appreciative glance. Keeping tabs on Julie was a full time job in of itself and was happy for Xena's help.

"No, you want it for Ares. You're willing to take Ares out to get to Hope. Well, why not let me help you? And then it would be so simple to just turn it on me," suggested Callisto. She knew it was a long shot but she kept up her argument.

"Because, I like the idea of you living with your suffering," shot back Xena, her eyes once again ice cold. Her posture was ridged against Gabrielle. The bard wanted so badly to reach out to her but they had an unspoken rule about excessive touching in public and keeping there distance in front of enemies. Everyone listened carefully, even Joseph who had now closed the space between him and the others.

"Oh, please! Who said anything about suffering. Really, it's more of a boredom thing, an emptiness, really. Anyways, I'm disappointed in you, Xena. The sensible thing would be to enlist me on your side. You're taking this far, far too personal," argued Callisto making her point clear to everyone but Xena. The bard knew the crazy goddess was right and spoke up.

"You know, she's right," suddenly spoke up Gabrielle as everyone came to a halt. Xena's arm dropped to her side as she turned to look at her soulmate.

"What?!" exclaimed Xena shocked by what her partner had just said. Gabrielle received a distinct feeling of betrayal and sent a wave of love back to her mate to reassure her.

"Remember what you said about staying focused? You're letting your anger get in the way here, Xena. It's best if we let her help us," explained Gabrielle looking Xena straight in the eyes. Gabrielle spoke to her love in a gentle compelling voice to convey her feelings.

"For once, she's right," broke in Joseph. Xena, Gabrielle and especially Julie seemed to go into shock from this. Never did Julie even consider Joseph taking Gabrielle's side, especially after what had just happened a while ago. Xena and Gabrielle exchanged a surprised look too. "Xena, we're going to need all the help we can get. A goddess like her could be very useful in this fight," continued Joseph looking at Callisto as he spoke. He had an odd look on his face that only Julie picked up knowing his mannerisms as she did. If she didn't know better she thought that maybe he was actually standing up for her and not just trying to do what the most logical thing was.

"See Xena, everyone here agrees I would be of great help, even poor little Gabrielle. So what do you say?" asked Callisto again, with a smile growing across her face.

"All right," Xena gave in, her too coming to the conclusion that any help would be beneficial in some way, even though she didn't like it.

Xena walked off in a huff, obviously because she had to join forces with her sworn enemy. Julie and Gabrielle followed quickly though keeping quiet. Xena and the other two disappeared into a patch of brush to calm down. Joseph and Callisto stood still for a moment

"Never thought blondy would be right," spoke up Joseph after the others were out of earshot. He stood by the horse and turned to look at Callisto.

"Its amazing how that happens isn't it. How the once powerful and independent thinking Xena, now gives into little Gabrielle's will," returned Callisto, one hand on her hip as she turned to talk to Joseph. Her other hand waved in the air nonchalantly animating her speech.

"Indeed it is. I guess significant others will have that affect on people," noted Joseph shaking his head.

"I wouldn't know nor will I ever," commented Callisto as she looked around. She was quickly getting bored with the lack of progress.

"Eh...I wouldn't say that, ya never know when love will take a hold of you," sighed Joseph looking at Callisto. He wondered if there was a soul alive who could penetrate that armor that woman had built around herself.

"Don't start, you won't like where it leads to," shot Callisto as she promptly walked away to the right leaving him alone for a moment.

"Well, never hurts to try," Joseph whispered to himself as he smiled and followed the maniacal goddess. Callisto headed toward where she had seen the other three go.

While Callisto and Joseph were talking the three woman proceeded into a clearing some yards away to escape prying ears. Finally out of range of sight in the forest, Xena stopped and Julie and Gabrielle abruptly stopped next to her. Gabrielle walked in front of her wife and looked up into her eyes. Xena hesitated a minute and took the bard into her arms. It was a tender moment, neither of the couple minded being watched by Julie. They shared their embrace for a few moments, their exchange was beyond words, felt thru their bond. It was a reaffirmation of the link between them, soul-deep and a comforting gesture all in one.

Xena heard Callisto headed their way and before she could see them, she abruptly pulled away from Gabrielle. Gabrielle was startled at the sudden changed then finally heard the approaching foot steps also and understood her love's change. Julie looked at the space in-between Xena and Gabrielle kinda sad that they had to part as they did but when danger was near Xena took no chances. She had been about to warn them when the warrior had heard it in the same instant. Callisto came to where the trio was standing followed by Joseph.

"Are we moving on now?" Joseph asked before Callisto could. The goddess shot him an odd look that said, are you reading my mind? Joseph just smiled at Callisto and moved ahead of her as Xena, Gabrielle and Julie started towards the nearest village.

Approximately an hour went by as they walked in the an easterly direction. Julie had been deep into another story as Xena and Gabrielle listened to her as Callisto and Joseph brought up the rear. Suddenly as the village came into view, everyone could hear loud screams coming from it.

"What is that?" asked Julie cutting off from her story to Gabrielle about how her and her brother had fought a renegade band of mer-men once.

"I don't know, but it doesn't sound good," answered Xena as everyone rushed toward the village, even Callisto jogged to keep up. A sense of urgency filled them all knowing that the confrontation could be any moment. They were all tense as they entered the chaos. All drew their weapons and discarded all their belongings in the bushes as they ran.

As they got closer, the screams and yells grew substantially. They entered the small village's square to see the village in a panic. Everywhere they looked they saw men, women and children running for their lives from black robed men. Amidst the chaos there was a group of children forming at the edge of the forest along with some women. Xena spotted them and took in the scene unfolding as Gabrielle and Julie were suddenly at her side.

"AHHHH!!!" one female villager screamed as a black robed man grabbed her. She was dragged off toward the other villagers the priests of Dahok were rounding up.

"Stay with the children," shouted another, running past them and was suddenly taken down by a priest and wrestled to the ground. She was also taken with the others

"Mommy!! I'm scared!" screamed a child as she was hurried off with the other children. He didn't have time to see his mom get whisked away.

"I'll make sure they get into the woods," spoke up Gabrielle as Xena nodded in agreement and Gabrielle rushed off toward the children.

"I'll help!" shouted Julie as she followed closely behind. She tried to spare innocents when ever possible. That mission seemed to be shared between the teen and bard. On the way they rounded up a few more children they could see and ushered them toward the forest trees.

"Hurry!! Go!!" urged Gabrielle as Julie and her raced over and caught up with the small group of children.

"Alright, don't be gone long. We have to keep moving!" shouted Xena after the two. Xena watched the group along with her family disappear. The three left started into the priests just as they disappeared from view.

The other three quickly became caught up in the action. Xena paired off with a Dahok priest. With her sword she cut threw them as they came at her with expert skill fending off their attacks. Callisto, seemingly out of boredom began picking off priests with fireballs. She would point her finger at random and a robed body would burst into flames. Joseph, occupied with several priests himself slowly fought towards the middle of the square and before he knew it was back to back with Callisto fighting off the lackey's of Dahok. He fought them off with impressive aptitude. Slicing threw two, his elbow touched the small of Callisto's back and half turned to smile at her. He suddenly turned around and gathered energy for a blast at an approaching priest.

"Tell you what, dinner to the one who can take out the most!" challenged Joseph as he shot the priest with a light energy blast.

"Most of what?" replied back Callisto as she launched two more fireballs with out discernment. One hit a robed man and another hit a building near a lackey.

"Biggest Dahok priest body count wins...agreed?" explained Joseph as he knocked two more priests down with energy balls. He found it easier to fight with his god powers suddenly back to back with the mad woman.

"Agreed!" yelled Callisto as her fireballs became more frequent.

The two began to down priests left and right in a fever pitch. Joseph being much more careful about that Callisto as she just flung fireball after fireball hitting anything in front of her. Before long, a massive barn was on fire along with several other buildings. Xena saw what was happening but it was more important to attend to the dagger. Villages could be rebuilt but opportunities without the goddess underfoot to get her goal were few and far between now.

Suddenly, Joseph saw Gabrielle run back into the square with an oddly dressed man on her heels. The man had a oddly shaped hat, clanging armor that looked as if he had gotten it from a kitchen and somewhat of a foolish look on his face. Both came to a sudden stop at the sight of Callisto and Joseph taking down the priests with ease. Xena looked at the two who had joined them and wondered briefly where Julie was. But suddenly she knew it wasn't Gabrielle who had came into the village. She felt no bond with this woman and there was something dangerous in her eyes. She looked Joxer over briefly to make sure he was alright and approached who she knew to be Hope with a lovers care.

"Gabrielle! Gabrielle! Now's your chance to go for the dagger while Callisto is preoccupied! Come on," shouted Xena as she ran forward and grabbed Gabrielle's arm ushering her toward the end of the village. She knew that she had to move Hope out of the village to prevent anyone getting hurt. She had already had a different plan in mind to get the dagger. But it was a good ruse to lure the demon away.

"Gabrielle?! Callisto!" Joseph heard the strange looking man say as he seemed to take an aggressive stance. But, living up to his outfit Joseph thought, the man went for his sword not looking where he was going, ran into an overhang and fell face first into a pig trough. Joxer was brave to the point of stupidity, beyond his skills to fight but tried any how.

"This way!" shouted Xena as she led Gabrielle through the chaotic village square.

"I'm right behind you," assured Gabrielle as she followed closely behind thru the running people. As they walked, Xena found a place to cover them where she could give Hope instructions to get the dagger. Xena and Gabrielle stopped behind an overturned wagon at the edge of the village. Joseph gave a sigh of relief when he saw Julie re-enter the square and at his motion, sought protection in a nearby hut. She ran to where he had pointed and dove into the dwelling trying to dodge two robed figures along with one of Callisto's fire balls. She made it inside unschaved and not captured.

"Ok, I want you to go to the ruins at the foot of Mount Areopagus," ordered Xena as her and Gabrielle found they had a moment to go over the plans from behind the wagon.

"Is that where the dagger is hidden?" asked Gabrielle now very interested. Xena ignored the danger she felt so close and continued to talk as if this was her wife with a sick feeling in her stomach.

"In a crypt. I'll keep Callisto busy, but you gotta watch for Ares. Gabrielle, we'll be lucky if we get one last shot at Hope. I'm counting on you," informed Xena as she looked out over the village square to see it had become a battle field. Xena sighed inwardly hoping Gabrielle would stay away just a few minutes longer. It had been bad enough with just the priests, now she had the two behind her throwing god powers around, she had seen Julie duck into a hut, and was silently telling Gabrielle not to come running which seem to work.

"She is evil. She deserves to die," mentioned Gabrielle. There was difference in her voice made Xena's skin crawl.

"Maybe even suffer a little bit," agreed Xena as she turned to get a better look at what was going on. Joseph and Callisto were still firmly planted in the middle of the square but the Dahok priests were becoming less and less frequent with each passing minute. She hoped that with the diminishing priest force they would reign in there powers finally.

"You have a way with fire, you know that?" commented Joseph as another priest was sent sailing through the air.

"Well, fire has always been a friend of mine. Can't help it if I can exercise it," shrugged Callisto as she lit another priest on fire. She was enjoying herself as was Joseph, he would be ashamed to admit.

"You treat all men you meet like this? I mean I doubt you've ever done anything like this before...contest wise," smirked Joseph keeping up the pressure on the minions of Dahok.

"You're right, you're the first. But don't go getting your hopes up," snapped back Callisto. Joseph just grinned and they lapsed into silence again.

"I wouldn't say that. After all, she is my child. Now, Xena, tell me, where is the dagger? There must be a thousand crypts," Gabrielle inquired getting Xena's attention once more.

Julie dodged debris as it dashed through the window she was looking out of. She could tell Joseph was trying to stem the death toll as he went but Callisto was firing uninhibited.

"It's carved in the shape of, there!" Xena shouted pointing to something behind Gabrielle, making her turn to see what it was. She scanned the ruins for what she was pointing at.

"Don't turn around Gabrielle. Don't you turn around. What's the name of your sister?" suddenly asked Xena pulling a small knife out and putting it to the back of Gabrielle. It killed her inside but before she hurt this look alike she had to be absolutely sure.

"What sister!" snapped Gabrielle as she turned and with a look shot Xena flying backwards crashing through a table. Joseph and Callisto stopped their tirade and looked on. Julie emerged from the hut. She never knew Gabrielle had any powers. She knew something was immediately wrong when she saw Xena go flying. Then it hit her, just as it did Joseph and Callisto. That wasn't Gabrielle. It was Hope. Xena slightly stunned got right back to her feet and stood where she had been thrown to assess the situation.

Suddenly, with a brief expanse of blue light, Ares appeared next to Hope.

"Ares!" shouted Joseph as he took a step toward him. As Ares appeared Joxer finally walked up shaking himself off toward the gathering group of heroes. Unashamed by his bumbling he made it to them straightening his helmet. Gabrielle came out of the forest at just the same instant feeling the need for her thru there connection finally as Xena had let off her silent plea for her to stay hidden. Julie walked up to Gabrielle and Xena. Joseph and Callisto hadn't moved much. There was clearly a line in the sand drawn as Ares and Hope looked across the square at Xena, Joseph, Callisto, Joxer, Julie and Gabrielle.

"Let's go. You can't have a bloodletting without the guest of honor," smirked Ares as both he and Hope vanished into thin air without another word. There was a momentary silence as Xena re-grouped and joined the others in the middle of the square bringing Julie and Gabrielle with her.

"Hope wants that dagger. She needs it to kill the Olympian gods," spoke up Xena finally.

"Thank god she doesn't know where it is," replied Julie stepping up beside her brother.

"What did you think you two were doing?" asked Xena as Callisto walked up beside her joining the circle.

"A girl's gotta have a little fun. By the way Joseph...I won. Now, let's get that dagger," answered Callisto never wavering her eyes from Xena's. She has a one track mind, Joseph thought.

"First thing's first," replied Xena looking out over the destruction that had been caused. Another inward sigh brought Gabrielle's hand to the small of her back nonchalantly. Xena took quiet comfort in the slight touch and the warmth of there connection intensified.

"When the time comes, it just better be there," Callisto quipped as she tauntingly brushed her chin against Xena's shoulder and walked away. Gabrielle seethed but a hand on her wrist told her to let it go. Which she quickly did.

"What were you two doing?" asked Julie looking up at her brother.

"Just a little competition. Looks like I lost," Joseph answered looking around at the burnt bodies laying around the square.

"This is no time for a friendly competition," Julie retorted. She could sense that there was something different about her brother now. It was almost like he was flirting with Callisto during the fight, but he wouldn't dare do such a thing...would he? Julie didn't know anymore. The strange energy Hope gave off seemed to make everything go topsy turvy.

"Who are you?" asked Joseph as he approached the funny looking man who was rubbing his head feeling for the bump that resulted into running into the overpass. He looked up at Joseph as he approached.

"I am Joxer the Mighty!" replied the suddenly proud and noble-sounding man.

"Hmmmm...never heard of you," replied Joseph as he walked away. He could see with the familiarity that he interacted with Xena and Gabrielle that he was friends with them. He had taken a slight liking to the man even if he was a little lacking in skills.

"You know that's the second time today I've heard that," pointed out Joxer somewhat offended with a discouraged look.

"Joxer, what are you doing here?" asked Gabrielle as she, Xena and Julie can up to him. He turned to greet his friends and the new girl.

"Well, you should know. Don't you remember finding me knocked out in the middle of no where. Me telling you that I heard about Dahok, went looking for you, found his priests instead and then being knocked cold," retold Joxer somewhat amazed that Gabrielle didn't remember.

"Joxer, you were with Hope!" spoke Xena astonished at his foolhardiness. He was quite clueless half the time, Xena thought.

"Hope! Wha...Eeee" squirmed Joxer as he almost fainted.

"Well, that explains him being here. What's our next move?" asked Joseph turning to face Xena.

"Wait a sec! Now who are you?" Joxer asked Joseph. "And who's the girl related to Xena?" Julie smacked her forehead. She thought next time she comes here she's wearing contacts.

"Jeez! Is it that obvious!" she asked perplexed. "Oh well," she said as Xena chuckled slightly and wrapped an arm around her. Xena spoke up.

"This is Julie and that is her brother," she said with no more explanation. "Now moving on."

Xena looked around, making sure Callisto was out of ear-shot. After making sure that she couldn't hear, Xena unveiled her plan of getting the dagger. Joxer would be sent off to get it and to get caught in the process. Therefore, sneaking the dagger into the temple where all the sacrifices were going to be made right underneath Hope's nose. Xena stressed that making it look real was essential to fooling both Callisto and Hope. Xena revealed specifics on what was going to happen and what to do. Finally, telling Joxer that he would give it to her in the temple when she and the rest of the party arrived. The others agreed holey that it was an excellent plan and no one would suspect Joxer had it. They all nodded and looked at each other in a unanimous understanding of the acceptance of the plan.

As Callisto came wandering back around, Xena quickly ended the discussion and changed the topic back to why Hope would want the dagger.

"Not only could she kill the gods, but she can also hold them prisoner with it," she spoke up making it seem like that had been the topic all along. They all followed along even Joxer as he saw the psycho goddess approach.

"Hmmmm...yes, would be hard to defeat her once that happened," chimed in Callisto completely oblivious to what had been discussed. She pushed her way back into the circle.

"Well, we better get moving," suggested Xena. The now larger company by one seemed to pair off as they started heading back out of the village.

"Bro! Hold up just a sec!" called out Julie as her and her brother stayed back.

"What's up sis?" Joseph asked.

"Um...I don't want to bring this up...but is it me or were you flirting with Callisto just then in the village?" Julie asked. Xena had seen it too and left it alone knowing her sharp descendant would probably be taking care of it. When she had called her brother to stay back with her, Xena's hand wrapped around Gabrielle's for a second before she could interrupt to make sure everything was ok. So they walked on giving the siblings some privacy. Xena gave Gabrielle a look that said she would explain later. Joxer ran up along side the retreating company and kept pace with his friends and the crazy ally.

"Well, maybe I was. But don't think anything of it, it won't change anything," laughed Joseph looking over at Callisto as she walked beside Xena and Gabrielle.

"Don't give me that! I've seen that look in your eyes before. Remember that time the siren had you under her spell...you had that same 'longing for love' look in your eyes that you have now!" pointed out Julie poking her brother in the chest. He towered over her but she didn't seem intimidated in the least.

"Hey, don't worry about it. This is totally different. I'm not under any spell this time. Ok. Don't worry, when the time comes it'll be business as usual for me," assured Joseph pulling his eyes away from Callisto and looking down at his little sis. She sighed giving in.

"It better be, that's all I need, a maniac psycho-path for a sister-in-law," joked Julie as she punched Joseph in the arm. He slid the same arm around her shoulders and decided to walk with her. Spending a little time reconnecting with his sister seemed to be what she needed so he gladly complied.

"Yeah, well, she is a looker," joked Joseph as they turned to catch up with the others.

"Don't even start!" shot back Julie as they walked along side by side.

The group made their way to the far end of town where they retrieved Argo and four other horses. Xena thought it would be better and faster if they rode instead of walked. The group ambled into the barn and saddled each horse, some they were borrowing from grateful villagers. Julie had a gentle white mare that a villager had told her where to find, Joseph's was a gift from the same man, all he asked is that it be returned when they were done. The other two had been given with the same stipulations by a couple other families. The last two mounts were given to Callisto and Gabrielle. Then Gabrielle volunteered to ride with Joxer even though she wanted to ride with Xena but the both knew with before long, the group had collected their belongings from where they had scattered them on their way into the village where they had pulled their weapons to confront the oncoming threat. They all mounted as they met Xena out in front of the stable. They started on their way Xena taking the lead and Gabrielle with Joxer following her closely. Julie was on one side of Gabrielle as Joseph and Callisto brought up the rear. They were riding out of the village when Joseph came up on the other side of Gabrielle.

"What did you say your name was again?" asked Joseph looking over at Joxer as he rode with Gabrielle.

"Joxer...Joxer the Mighty!" replied Joxer, again the noble and daring voice came out. He smiled with pride still unhindered by his gross lack of skills. Joseph smiled.

"Ah...yes. I remember now, sorry if I said I've never heard of you, but I do remember hearing something about you," replied Joseph as they rode along. Gabrielle listened offhandedly to the conversation, very conscious of Joxer's arms about her waist. He was very much a gentle man she noticed and that placated her slight unease. She caught a sideward glance from Xena and smiled. She felt it returned in the warmth that flowed into her soul thru their link.

"Oh...yes well I'm well....WHAT?!...You mean to say you've actually heard of me?" replied Joxer as he fell off the back of the horse.

The group stopped so that Joxer could remount and they could all get going again. They all seemed to huff except for Callisto who took everything in around her as a simple bore. Xena seemed particularly displeased by this setback. Joxer attempted to scramble back on the horse's hind quarter and with Gabrielle's help succeeded.

"Why yes I have. I do recall reading about you. If I remember correctly, you caused three naked Gabrielle's to appear once...right?" asked Joseph with a smile knowing that this would irritate Gabrielle. And it did just that. A heated flush reddened her cheeks with a rosy tint. Xena felt her embarrassment and just rolled her eyes. She decided to let it go for Julie's sake but the constant prods at her soulmate were starting to irritate her also.

"Why..um...yes I did. You see, Aphrodite had..." Joxer began to explain as he got situated on the horse again, but was cut off.

"How did you know about that?" cut in Gabrielle as the group started to move once again. She turned to address Joseph.

"Its in all the scrolls isn't it?" replied Joseph. Julie could tell he was hiding something. 'oh crap' she thought, here we go...

"It shouldn't be. Sure, I wrote about it but I never sent it to the academy to be cataloged," answered Gabrielle with a puzzled look on her face wondering where he got the information.

"That's it! I read about ya in Gabrielle's scrolls," spoke up Joseph as he made it look as if it had dawned on him. Julie knew better watching the tell tale signs of a small smile play at the edges of his mouth. Julie just ducked her head and spurred her horse next to Xena's and shot her a look that the warrior took as a heads up. Xena nodded. Callisto who was still at the back of the pack just road along watching the bard and half god with some interest at the contention seemingly throwing sparks throughout the group.

"But when did you..." started Gabrielle.

"Well, I have to do something while I'm in the bushes now don't I?" laughed Joseph. "and you did leave it laying out last night."

"What?! You used my scrolls!!!" shouted Gabrielle. A smile drew across Xena's face, Julie saw this and could only imagine that Xena herself had used the scrolls a time or two. Julie tried vainly to hold in her laugh.

"Well, I had to use something! Plus, pinecones chaff!" shot back Joseph pretending to be offended. Julie rolled her eyes at Joseph fained hurt. Callisto snorted.

"Well, you could of at least asked!" retorted Gabrielle. "I would have given you a blank one!" Gabrielle was hot and now her eyes were boring holes in the back of her warrior. And Xena knew it.

"You were asleep and I needed to go!" answered back Joseph knowing that Gabrielle was playing right into his hands. Julie just tried to not laugh failing miserably. Xena was also making an attempt to withhold her mirth.

"You mean to tell me that you would rather use pinecones that parchment??" asked Joseph after a moment's silence.

"Well...I...uh..." stammered Gabrielle know realizing the trap she was in.

"Exactly, case closed, door shut, turn out the lights the party's over!!!" exclaimed Joseph as if he had just won some sort of large victory. Someone had just out talked Gabrielle, Xena was flabbergasted in her laughter. Julie was giggling so hard that she almost fell off her horse. Joxer was chuckling under his breath trying not to get launched of the steed by an angry Gabrielle. Xena even heard Callisto snort twice at Joseph's last comment.

"Boy I bet this is something we won't read about in the scrolls," Julie told Xena in a hushed half laughing voice. Xena leaned towards Julie.

"Or something you'll wipe your butt on either," she told Julie who burst out laughing all over again.

The amusing argument seemed to lighten the mood up a bit as everyone got a laugh out of it. However, Gabrielle didn't seem to find it funny. She kicked the sides of the horse to catch up with Xena and Julie as Joseph was now left bringing up the rear by himself with Callisto.

Conversation died down after that point as the group continued on their way toward Hope's temple. They knew they had at least a little time but were taking nothing for granted and sped up their pace. There was no telling when everything was going to happen. So haste this time was there friend.

As they came out into a clearing, Xena, Julie, Callisto, and Gabrielle all had to duck a low, thick branch that loomed out into the clearing.

"Ohh!!! Uh...Uh.." groaned Joxer as he didn't see the branch, clotheslined himself and again fell off the horse. Joseph went around Joxer and joined the others who had stopped. They had brought their horses to a stop and then turned them about to look what happened.

"Alright! That's enough!" suddenly yelled Xena jumping down off Argo and marching toward Joxer very threateningly.

"Ow. I don't know why I keep fallin' off those things," joked Joxer as he rubbed his arm watching Xena quickly coming toward him, hoping his half attempt at the joke would curb the warrior's path toward him. Joxer got to his feet quickly.

"I am sick to death of you. The fate of the entire world rests on this mission. If you think I'm gonna let a bumbling fool like you mess it up, you got another thing coming," yelled Xena as she stood right in Joxer's face. Her eyes had gone stone cold and a menacing look was across her face. Joseph, Julie, Callisto and Gabrielle all looked on. Gabrielle didn't feel any real anger coming from her past some annoyance and didn't quite understand yet what was happening.

"What?" asked Joxer with a dumbfounded look on his face. He was too stunned to be hurt yet. This person who faced him now was far from the friend he had come to know.

"Well, you don't hear too good, huh? I said I am sick of you. Now, get lost!" barked Xena shoving Joxer. It now dawned on Joseph, Julie and Gabrielle what was happening, Xena was putting their plan of getting the hind's blood dagger into action. Callisto watched this part of Xena with disgusting interest. She was fascinated by the sudden change and remembered that that was the face of the woman she had seen and learned to hate so much that she made it her life's goal to kill that woman's soul. But it also reminded her of the emptiness now inside. She had basically accomplished her goal when she turned Gabrielle against Xena and had almost killed the annoying girl that now accompanied them again. But she continued to watch with a half smile on her face.

"You guys..." smiled Joxer thinking it was a joke. He even looked past her to Gabrielle for reassurance.

Suddenly, Xena delivered a hard backhand across his face catching everyone off guard. Joseph could tell it hurt by the expression of pain and disbelief on Joxer's face. Xena cringed inside herself and Gabrielle felt a sharp twinge of regret.

"Xena," spoke up Gabrielle trying to prevent the abuse from going any further hoping her soulmate would take the out. But Xena kept her face hard and steeled herself from the things she was about to do. Gabrielle felt the walls go up and just concentrated on sending her all the love she had in her to help her over come any pain this might cause in her.

"You need a little lesson, huh? Listen to me, you bumbling..." started Xena as she grabbed Joxer around the collar and pushed him backwards out of listening distance of the others towards the woods they just left. Once out of earshot Xena kept her angry face and fierce movements but whispered to him two words. "The plan." Joxer was still lost but she knew he would catch on as soon as he had a moment to recoup from his shock. It was a half attempt at an apology that she hoped he would catch also.

"You didn't sneak off, back in that village, and get that hind's-blood dagger, now, did you?" asked Callisto as she leaned over her horse toward Gabrielle. Gabrielle still looked at Xena watching her with Joxer. Julie and Joseph watched also with interest. Julie had a looked of astonishment still plastered on her features that she couldn't remove quite yet as she watched the stranger yet someone very familiar yell at Joxer.

"Get lost! And don't follow us!" Xena continued on her tirade as she shoved Joxer into the tall grass and lorded over him threateningly.

"If I did, do you think I would tell you?" smiled back Gabrielle answering Callisto's question finally.

"Now, scram ya fool! Moron! Get out of here!" ordered Xena as she pointed a finger away from the group as she looked down at Joxer bumbling around in the grass. He got up quickly and headed the direction they came.

Callisto, slightly miffed by the answer, smiled back and turned her attention once more to Xena, who was stomping back towards Argo. Joseph and Julie both exchanged looks of understanding but the hole experience left Julie slightly shaken. She was quickly recovering though. They knew the plan was only as good as they made it look like, so they decided to keep quite. Especially Gabrielle, who was concentrating more on reassuring Xena thru there connection thru their love.

"Alright, let's move!" shouted Xena as she came back and jumped up onto Argo. The others kept silent as they continued on the path they were on. Xena brooded somewhat over what had been done and Gabrielle caught her horse up to Argo to ride next to her. They each took comfort in the others nearness as they rode so close together their legs almost touched. Julie road closely behind them leaving Callisto and Joseph in the rear again. Callisto and Joseph shared an odd look that everyone else missed. So the company now minus one moved on in silence.

As the afternoon became dusk and as dusk became nightfall, the group made camp within the forest far off the road. They decided to make two campfires, one for Xena, Gabrielle and Callisto and the other for Joseph and Julie. As it grew later into the night, Xena and Joseph were both busy sharpening their swords by their respective campfires. Callisto sat by Xena seemingly enthralled by the fire's flames and Xena trying to ignore the sulking goddess. Both Julie and Gabrielle were busy making sure the horses were secured and that they had all the necessary items for dinner. They both decided that Julie would make a stew as they combined their food stuffs and that Gabrielle would fix something hot to drink.

"Do you think she took it a bit too far?" whispered Julie to Gabrielle alluding to the instance with Joxer earlier. Gabrielle saw how it might have shaken her.

"Maybe, but Joxer will understand. He has a kind heart and will forgive us. Xena does what she has to. You know that, she didn't feel any better about it than we did," replied Gabrielle in a whisper making sure no one else could hear them. Julie nodded acquiescing to Gabrielle's explanation knowing she would know better than anyone else. She probably felt the hold thing Julie reasoned. This comforted Julie and put her upset to rest. They quickly retrieved the pots, pans and satchels of food they would need.

"What's the future like?" asked Gabrielle as they were placing the bags of assorted goods against a nearby tree. The bards curiosity had gotten the best of her. She had been dying to ask Julie since their last meeting.

"It's a good future. Technology is far advanced from this time. If you didn't grow up with it like I did though it would probably blow you mind," she giggled. "But the evilness in humanity is still very prevalent. I mean, why else would I be on all those adventures with my bro. Kinda like you and Xena we do the same thing," Julie explained in the simplest way she could think of.

"He doesn't like me does he? Especially now. When you two were here before, it was as if he was just looking for a fight, but now, its more than that, its like he's looking for a reason," asked Gabrielle as they stood by the tree. Julie sighed and leaned against the tree.

"I don't know what my bro's problem with you is. All I know is that you're family and that's what counts. I know he looks at you now with suspicion and probably just flat out doesn't like you but I know the truth and that you're going to be on our side till the end. I love ya" she winked, "and that is what counts ok?" assured Julie as she put a loving arm on Gabrielle's shoulder. Gabrielle returned the half hug.

"Julie! Did you find them?" shouted Joseph as he looked over toward the two family members talking. He had been referring to the food stuffs.

"Yeah, be right there," responded Julie, giving Gabrielle an assuring smile and squeeze on the shoulder, then walked toward their campfire. Gabrielle returned to hers also and the both went about their appointed tasks.

"No need for firewood while I'm around," spoke up Callisto as she sent a small fireball into Xena's fire sending the flames shooting a few feet higher causing Xena to jerk her head up from her sword sharpening, just as Gabrielle returned to the clearing.

"This is probably the last night sky either of us will ever see," commented Callisto as she looked skyward at all the stars that glinted.

As Joseph and Julie began to cook, suddenly Xena, Julie and Joseph all looked up as if there was another presence in the area that was not wanted. Gabrielle felt the unease grow in Xena, but trusted her to handle it. She could feel her warrior go into defense mode.

"I'm going for a walk," informed Xena as she quickly got up and walked off into the wilderness. Joseph and Julie felt the same feeling, they wanted to go see what it was, but if anything, Xena could take care of herself, and Gabrielle would have reacted to, so they thought she could handle it while they kept guard over the fires, and their tentative ally. Gabrielle proceeded to put a pot of water on for tea as Julie put on a bigger pot on her fire for stew. Joseph returned to his sword sharpening.

Xena moved into a very small clearing. She unsheathed her sword and looked around. All her senses were on high alert for even the smallest change in the air. She felt him and hated the game he played lurking about invisible. Her patience at an end she spoke up.

"Ares, I know you're here, 'cause my skin is crawling. Show yourself!" Xena demanded as she continued to look around for any sign of movement.

"You're the only mortal I know who can do that," congratulated Ares as he appeared in a soft shower of blue light right in front of her.

Back at the campfire, Joseph, Julie and Gabrielle sat by each of their fires getting their late night dinner ready for everyone.

"What are you looking at?" asked Julie annoyed noticing that the potatoes she had given him to warm up were now a very burnt black. This would set back dinner another few minutes.

"Oh...uh...um...HACK...nothing," replied Joseph pretending to cough and turning his attention once again toward the fire and the potatoes he had burned. He'd been caught red-handed and his face showed it. He quickly discarded the burnt food and put a few more potatoes on the stick to warm properly this time

"Pay attention this time would ya!" Joseph just nodded slipping back into his musings.

Julie looked back over toward Xena's campfire, noticing Callisto sitting idly watching the flames like the pot of now steaming water that Gabrielle was now adding herbs to.

"You're fallin' for her!!" gasped Julie quickly turning back to face Joseph accusingly.

"What?! No I'm not! You're delusional!" retorted Joseph putting the new potatoes on the skewer. He felt trapped now and bit back at her trying to cover his feelings.

"Denial is the first sign!" shot back Julie, she knew she had him and he knew it too. She sighed knowing there was nothing she could do about her brother's taste in women. Julie certainly didn't like her at all, she gave off some serious bad god vibes that made her feel uneasy.

Just then, both of them saw Gabrielle drop a few items off near Xena's and her fire suddenly. The bard had gotten a wave of anger flow over her thru her connection with Xena. She went wandering off in the same direction that Xena had gone a few minutes before. They knew something was up when Gabrielle felt it necessary to go find her mate.

"Go follow her. Go see what's up," Joseph ordered quickly changing the subject.

"Alright, what are you gonna do," replied Julie as she got to her feet, her suspicion rising about leaving Joseph and Callisto alone.

"I got a debt to pay off," smiled Joseph as he looked over at Callisto still encapsulated by the fire's flame. Julie knew what the debt was and did not want to stick around to see what happened. So she took the out and with one last look down at her brother, she silently headed off after Gabrielle.

"What do you want?" Xena sneered, her sword pointed at his chest.

"I've come to give you one last chance to join up with me and Dahok. We're gonna win, Xena. There's no turning back. Join us," Ares urged as he stepped closer to Xena, his eyes looking deeply into hers. She could feel herself wanting to give in, he had always had that affect on her. The gift he had given her as Ares chosen would always link him to her. A part of her that held her soul neared and she felt it pull her back from Ares. He might be apart of her but Gabrielle owned her soul and all of her heart. Gabrielle felt the tug inside her and responded with her own wrapping herself about their link inside her soul. She knew Ares was trying to lure her back as always trying to use her dark side he'd planted there so long ago. But the bard always won because she was the warriors destiny for eternity.

"What makes you think that you can trust Dahok? Let me guess. Is it because you played such a large part in his daughter's delicate condition?" asked Xena snapping out of her trance-like state. Feeling her connection with Gabrielle strengthen. She knew the bard was on her way but it was better for her to know sooner than later.

"So, you know. And we haven't even sent out the announcements, yet," answered Ares somewhat surprised at what Xena knew about Hope. But he also knew he should have stopped being surprised by this woman long ago.

"Seraphin said that Hope had a special purpose. I heard you were together, and I guessed the rest. Hope is pregnant with your child," revealed Xena.

"No. That's not possible," spoke up Gabrielle as she joined Xena and Ares in the clearing. Xena watched her enter thru the underbrush and she could tell that her bard was now in shock. Something so repulsive as her evil daughter and with Ares was bad enough but now they were going to have a kid. Julie was just a few steps behind Gabrielle and decided to stay hidden.

"Congratulations, Gabrielle. You're gonna be grandma," Ares halfway joked as he pulled his eyes away from Xena and looked at Gabrielle. Julie heard this from behind a bush just a few paces away. As far as she could tell she was unnoticed. The subject made her sick to her stomach thinking about what destruction this would bring to the earth.

"Dahok's daughter, your Olympian seed. You sold out your fellow gods so that you could sire a new race," accused Xena as she once again turned her attention toward Ares. Julie knew this meant her brother too. She had heard enough.

"Traitor!! I'll make sure my bro gives you a good beating when we get back!" shouted Julie suddenly overcome by hatred as she sprang from her hiding place.

"Why look who we have here. Looks like the whole family will be in on this one," noted Ares as he looked over Julie making her skin shiver. She could feel the pull shades lighter than Xena but the pull all the same.

"We'll make sure you, Dahok, Hope and these little monsters you're about to let loose all get what they deserve!" shot back Julie standing her ground now next to Xena. The warrior put her arm in front of Julie a protective measure born of her mothering instinct toward the teen.

"Our child will be the first of what Dahok calls 'the six destroyers.' Insidious creatures with no souls, who eat of the living and the righteous, and lay waste to all gods," informed Ares as he again looked deep into Xena's eyes.

"You deserve the little monsters," sneered Xena, the wanting feeling her soul was now gone. Nothing but contempt and rage now filled her for the god in front of her.

"This can't be happening," shuddered Gabrielle as she looked up at the night sky, tears falling down her face. The sadness that enveloped her was all encompassing. She cried over the monster that daughter and what path she had chosen. She cried over the things that would soon be born to her daughter. All of it tore at her heart feeling that a piece of her was being torn out once again.

"Oh, but it can, Gabrielle, all thanks to you, it's the beginning of the end. The bloodletting ceremony will be the window into the world for Dahok. Even if you manage to somehow kill Hope, you still lose. The Fates will cut you down. So for me, it's, win-win. Goodbye, Xena. It has been fun," Ares replied giving Xena one last look that seemed to ask her one last time to join him before he once again vanished. Xena seethed with anger toward the bastard that had sold out the world. Her thoughts then turned to Gabrielle as her sadness came over her in one large wave that nearly knocked her the warrior to her knees. Julie stood beside Xena a moment watching Ares disappear also in shock over the new piece of the puzzle

Xena, after making sure Ares had gone, turned to Gabrielle and embraced her. She pulled her close to let her cry against her chest as she wrapped her arms about her shoulders. Gabrielle slid her arms about her warrior's waist and let the tears come.

"Don't worry Gabrielle. We'll get them," promised Julie as she put her hand on Gabrielle's arm. She nodded against Xena's chest and Xena just held her tighter letting the love she sent thru their bond speak for her. Julie stood there also lending her support to her. Xena took an arm and pulled the girl into the hug also. Gabrielle also welcomed her with and arm around her. Julie pulled back after a moment but didn't leave. They all took comfort in each other for a while.

Meanwhile, Joseph's stragedy for repaying the debt was finished. He had put his time to use as he found a little something for the bored goddess. He bent down, picked up an apple and a small loaf of bread out of the knapsack and walked over to Callisto who was still sitting by her fire.

"Care for an apple?" offered Joseph as he took a seat across the fire from Callisto.

"I don't eat," replied Callisto momentarily looking up at the apple then peering back down into the flames. Joseph wondered what she found so damn interesting in the fire.

"Then how am I suppose to turn in this debt. You won fair and square therefore, dinner on me," recalled Joseph with a smile. Callisto huffed.

"Give it," sighed Callisto as she snatched the apple from Joseph's hand, took a bite and then tossed it deep into the forest. Joseph sighed but was undiscouraged.

"There, your debt is paid," she said as her eyes once again danced with the flames.

"You know, you make it hard for anyone to like you," spoke up Joseph, obviously irritated by Callisto's gesture of throwing the apple away.

"I'm not in it to make people like me," replied Callisto off-handily. She honestly really didn't care any more. She was a single minded person and she wanted to die that was all.

"Callisto, I've heard your story. About what happened in Cirra, how you were raised, how you became who you are today. But believe me, you don't have to be that person all your life," advised Joseph as he leaned a little closer to the fire, looking Callisto in the eyes thru the flames. He held her gaze a moment.

Callisto didn't seem to respond, but from the change of expression on her face, Joseph could tell he had gotten her attention. He was pleased with his progress.

"Callisto, I don't know how this whole thing is gonna end, but I'll make you this offer. You can come back to the future with me and Julie, start over again. Be apart of a family again," offered Joseph. He guessed that that was her desire after all was said and done. He knew she was lonely.

"What family would have me as a member?" replied Callisto, her voice going soft with emotion, Joseph had broken through somewhat thru that dense shell she kept about herself always.

"Look in front of you Callisto. I'm not saying we'd get married, have children or anything like that. But I would be beside you every step you took," continued Joseph, his bare emotion now coming out. He wanted to help her that much he knew. There was something in her so basic that reached out for love that everyone missed because she lashed out so much in her pain or what used to be her pain.

Callisto again didn't answer but looked, up into Joseph' eyes. He could see the wanting in them to be apart of a family, to have what she had never had. He thought he could give it back to her. And she could see the sincerity in his, he meant what he said. The possibility floated around her mind. The reality of it was far from her grasp.

"You don't have to decide now. But please consider it," Joseph said. Callisto nodded in agreement. He stood up just as the others were returning.

"What are you two doing?" came a voice. Joseph and Callisto turned to see Xena and Gabrielle coming out of the timber lead by Julie. His sister was none to happy with this scene.

"Just talking," replied Joseph, his voice somber. Julie shook her head. Something was up but she wasn't gonna push it far now, not in front of everyone anyhow.

"Just talking eh? I'll believe it when I see it," replied Julie oblivious to the tender offer Joseph had just made to Callisto. But she did know her brother better than that.

"Julie please. We can talk about this later. Plus I think your dinner is ready," Joseph replied with a look that told Julie not to further push the issue as he pointed to their campfire. She nodded and returned to the camp fire.

"Better get some sleep, we'll need it in the morning," spoke up Xena as she sat down beside Callisto, resuming her sword sharpening for a while.

"Right," replied Joseph as he followed Julie back toward their fire giving Callisto one last look.

Julie and Gabrielle took up the tasks of laying out the sleeping rolls. They all ate the stew that Julie had cooked and passed out to everyone but Callisto who refused the bowl. Everyone also washed it down with a cup of steaming tea Gabrielle had prepared. Soon after the dishes were rinsed and put away they all laid out in their bed rolls. Xena and Gabrielle in the one they shared and Julie pulled hers closer to the fire against the cooling night. Within an hour, everyone was fast asleep except for Callisto who's stare hadn't wavered from the fire since Joseph made her the offer.

As dawn rose, everyone rose with it. It was early but they needed an early start. Breakfast consisted of cold trail rations that everyone ate rapidly. They all got their things together as quickly as possible and went on their way. Callisto was now no-where to be seen but it didn't seem to faze Xena or anyone else. Julie seemed particularly pleased that the maniacal goddess was not around, especially since whatever it was seemed to be blooming between the mad woman and her brother. They all knew she was unpredictable and they did not plan on having her help to begin with. They quickly gathered their things, made sure their fires were extinguished and mounted the horses once again. Feeling like the bloodletting was growing increasingly nearer, the group rode hard and fast through the woods toward Hope's sacrificial temple. There was little to no chit chat as the party made their way toward the temple. Everyone was tense in the knowledge of the upcoming battle, knowing some might not make it out, it left them all reminiscing the past and dreading the future, but resolved to see it thru.

Within a few hours they had reached their destination. They all knew the temple was near. They silently dismounted and tied the horses to a tree making all four well hidden in the forest. Xena and Gabrielle quickly made their way to a small hill that overlooked the temple that was nearby.

Joseph secured his sword and a couple knives as Julie put away her chobos in their holders that were strapped across her back as well as a few throwing knives for her. Still not a word from either of them. This was it, this was the second chance they had and each of them knew that they couldn't mess this one up. Their slim chance had presented itself and they would take care of business this time come Dahok or high water.

From the peak of the small hill they could see more sacrifices being ushered into the temple. It was a massive structure set not to far from a volcano. Yet another way for him to be in the earth Joseph surmised. He seemed to dwell in the fire depths of the earth. Xena had no clue what hold Dahok had over the people but he thought it must be mind control or they were all nuts. At the main entrance, Xena counted at least twenty guards and assumed there would be more inside. The situation looked difficult and the tension was so thick in the group you could cut it with a knife.

"Find anything?" spoke up Xena as Callisto suddenly appeared next to her in a flash of fire. Gabrielle half jumped at the her entrance not expecting her to appear again. It suddenly dawned on Gabrielle what the goddess had gone for.

"No dagger. You've hidden it well. Okay, we'll do things your way. But if you don't produce it soon, you'll get no help from me," answered Callisto in a slightly taunting way making no indication of whether or not she had decided to agree to Joseph's offer to which neither Xena or Gabrielle knew about. It was clear she was considering death a viable solution however to end her boredom and emptiness.

At this time Joseph and Julie came walking out of the woods only catching the tail end of Callisto's sentence. Joseph's expression seemed to ease a little at the sight of Callisto, but his sense of ease was quickly evaporated as Callisto vanished in another spray of fire. Julie felt the sudden tension in her brother but let it go. They might all die today and she decided she didn't want to be separated for eternity with an argument between them. As they approached Xena, Joseph noticed Gabrielle wander off toward a small thicket of bushes and trees. Xena was well aware of what Gabrielle was going to do, she had felt Hope's presence also and left the bard go to once and for all to make it clear who's side she was on. Xena sent reassurance to her partner as the bard's own reaction was confusion and sadness.

"Go join Xena, I'll be right back. Don't do anything till I get back," Joseph said not taking his eyes off Gabrielle as she disappeared in the small outcropping of timber. Xena noticed him following her soulmate and thought it best to let him see for himself where her loyalties lie always and forever.

Julie started to argue but Joseph had already hustled off after Gabrielle. Julie knew he was watching Gabrielle more closely than ever now, and even though she wandered what might happen, she figured he could take care of it and not over react. She knew he knew she would kill him before Dahok had a chance to if he did. Julie went to Xena as they sat perched on the hill watching the activity making plans. There was no talk between them but the warrior did rest her hand on Julie's shoulder as if in a small way telling her to be brave and she loved her. There was something Julie was feeling deep in her gut that was making her feel almost sick but she knew it was the darkness seeping from the temple but there was something about it that seemed off.

As Joseph followed Gabrielle into the trees, he noticed something move to his right. At first he thought it was just an animal or a shadow, because it was almost a whisper of something against a bush. But upon further investigation, leaving nothing to chance, he saw that it was in fact two more Dahok priests.

"What are they doing out here?" he silently spoke to himself as he took one last look to see where Gabrielle was headed and then took off toward the priests.

As he snuck closer, he could hear but couldn't make out what the two voices where saying, one male and the other female. They were obviously talking about something secret by the hush tone to their voices, and the privacy of the clearing they had chosen to have this conference in. He crept closer, his ears listening hard trying understand and make out what the voices were saying. As he crouched behind a bushy tree, he peered through it without ruffling a single leaf. There he saw the two priests he was following and right in front of them was a woman, because of her hood he could not really make out her features yet. The long ceremonial robes slightly dragged on the grown. The dark red made the woman stick out from the drab greens and browns of the surroundings. In fact, the color scheme of the woman's robe was just the opposite of the priests, dark red with black trim as compared to black with dark red trim. He knew that the person had to be in charge and the only person he knew to be in charge of the cult was Hope. Now he could just barely make out their conversation.

"Are you sure?" asked one of the priests.

"Yes, those are my father's orders. He wants half of the guards taken to his temple," Hope re-iterated again looking somewhat annoyed that she had to repeat herself. She spoke with her hands, as they swept this way and that as she directed them.

"Very well, it will be done," bowed the priest as the two hurried off into the woods to do as bid.

"Two temples? Why would Dahok need two..." it suddenly dawned of Joseph why there was two temples. The Fates' prophecy! The illusion of one equals two. This was what they were talking about. It wasn't Gabrielle, it was in fact the temples. Joseph was astonished but quiet as he watched Hope vanish. He knew with out a doubt when she disappeared that she was Gabrielle's daughter.

After making sure that Hope was gone, Joseph looked around trying to see if he could spot Gabrielle from his location. Finally getting up, he retraced his steps to where he last saw her and headed off in the direction she was going. It didn't take long to catch up with her. Gabrielle walked into a small clearing inside the trees and stopped. Looking around she didn't notice Joseph a few yards away hiding behind a bush watching her every move. Suddenly she appeared. If Joseph didn't know any better he would have thought it was Gabrielle's twin, now that he could see her face in the sun light, with the exception of the dark red cloak with black lining. Joseph continued to watch on quietly and with much interest.

"Mother," came a dark voice from Hope as Gabrielle turned to face her. Gabrielle's emotions were barely in check, she could hardly believe she was actually beginning to hate her daughter but the evil had to be stopped and it all started and ended with Hope, the bard knew. She grounded herself in her connection with her partner and faced her half-demon daughter.

"I'm not going to hurt you" she told her mother to reassure her. "It's growing, inside me, Gabrielle. The child, the way that I grew inside of you," confided Hope as she rubbed her stomach in a circular fashion. Hope seemed to want her mother for the first time now that she had the new life inside her. But it was too little too late.

"What do you want, Hope?" asked Gabrielle with a sad look on her face.

"I want to give you one last chance. Don't make me do this alone. Come, be my mother. If I say so, father will welcome you. Please, please, mother," pleaded Hope as she moved Gabrielle's hand across her face softly. Gabrielle let her hand rest on her cheek a minute allowing herself at least that one last time.

For a moment, Joseph was sick. His conclusion that Gabrielle was in cahoots with Hope was now coming true. The rage inside him boiled, however Joseph managed the strength to keep his rage in check. Could the Fates' prophecy include both the temples and Hope and Gabrielle? He sat still watching and listening to the mother and daughter conversation.

Back on the hill Xena held onto Julie's hand. Xena felt the upheaval of the emotions inside her love and tried to help her keep steady thru their bond. She was vaguely aware of Julie tensing as a flash of fire signified Callisto's return. Julie was still puzzled by the unease that grew in her. She felt as if they were missing something important.

"Hope, when I gave you that poison..." started Gabrielle as Hope moved Gabrielle's hand across her chin.

"I forgive you," cut off Hope as she softly rubbed her face in Gabrielle's hand. Hope seemed to suddenly take comfort in her mother's words getting over confident too fast.

"I'm so sorry it didn't finish you," continued Gabrielle. Now Hope's soft, loving expression turned to one of hate as she pulled away from Gabrielle. Hope took a couple steps back and then vanished. Gabrielle stood there for a moment and thought a piece of her soul had been shattered to pieces for the second time. The only thing that kept her upright was her feelings of love that flowed thru her from Xena. She then turned and went to rejoin Xena and the others. Joseph managed to keep from her sight as she passed him and walked toward where she had entered the small timber outcropping. Joseph, waited a moment, taking in what had just happened then quickly went after Gabrielle. He felt compelled suddenly to talk to the woman.

"Gabrielle! Wait!" Joseph yelled out as Gabrielle turned to see who it was.

"Joseph, I thought you were with the others," responded Gabrielle, her expression showed that she wasn't that pleased to see him. She recollected herself long enough to deal with this.

"Look, I followed ya. I saw what just happened...and I want to say I'm sorry. I'm sorry for accusing ya, sorry for everything. It seems I miss judged you and it was a hard thing you just did, I hope I never have to make a similar choice," apologized Joseph as he fiddled with his fingers looking away, he wasn't used to saying sorry save to Julie and even that was rare.

Gabrielle didn't respond, but the tears were now running down her face again. She finally nodded her acceptance of what he said.

"Friends?" asked Joseph as he offered his hand tentatively.

"Sniff...Of course, what else would we be? We are family after all," replied Gabrielle as she wiped away the tears and shook his hand. It was a nice start and the bard wished in the back of her mind that it would have come earlier but anything now was better than never.

"We got to hurry, there's been a new revelation to all of this," informed Joseph as they turned to rejoin the others.

"What is it?" asked Gabrielle as they rushed through the trees.

"No time, it'll be better if I explain it to everyone together," answered Joseph as they neared the clearing. As they approached they noticed that Callisto had returned.

"Try not to die, or I'll make Gabrielle wish you had. How's that for incentive?" asked Callisto as she again taunted Xena. Xena didn't respond, she didn't care at this point about the goddess, she tolerated the comment only because having her out of the way was better than having to deal with her at this moment.

Julie turned to see a very encouraging sight, Joseph and Gabrielle running toward them. Julie hurried over to her brother as Gabrielle continued up to Xena as Callisto again wandered off to give them their space. It was time for goodbyes.

"What did you do?" asked Julie as she slightly jumped to meet her brother.

"Let's just say we're both on the same page," replied Joseph with a slight smile. Julie laughed.

"Well its about time!" exclaimed Julie as the two stayed where they were to give Xena and Gabrielle their space. Julie was very happy now that they would at least not be at each other's throats.

Gabrielle approached Xena, once again the tears were welling up in her eyes, knowing what was about to happen, plus still dealing with the overflow of emotions from moments ago.

"Gabrielle, stay here," Xena told her tenderly as she turned and put her hands on Gabrielle's shoulders.

"No way. After all we've been through, I am with you till the end. I love you," argued Gabrielle as she again wiped the tears away with her hands frustrated at their presence.

"Then just one thing. When I'm gone, I don't want you to feel any guilt," urged Xena, thinking of what it would take to take out Hope.

"Xena..." started Gabrielle as Xena cut her off. She wanted to tell her everything that was in her heart, that there was no living with out her.

"Listen to me. A lot's happened to us over the past year, and there were times when we were both very confused. But I want you to know that I still think you are the best thing that ever happened to me. You gave my life meaning and joy, and you will be a part of me forever," continued Xena as they embraced each other in a deep hug. Gabrielle felt her heart almost break, she knew she couldn't let Xena die. She just didn't know how she could pull them both out of it yet. Xena and Gabrielle felt the loving emotions thru their like and shared an intense moment together.

"Wait a minute!!!" shouted Joseph breaking up the tender moment.

"What?" asked Xena softly as everyone's attention now was focused on him. Gabrielle and Xena separated somewhat but still held onto each other. Julie and Joseph walked up and stopped near them to talk.

"There's a new part of the problem," revealed Joseph.

"What?" replied Julie in disbelief. She couldn't believe that this could get any more complicated.

"There's another temple. When I followed Gabrielle, I also saw two Dahok priests. I followed them. They met Hope and she told them to take half the guards to another temple" revealed Joseph to everyone's shock except for Callisto. She approached the group once again.

"Well, that would explain the other temple," revealed Callisto.

"Where?!" demanded Xena as she turned to face Callisto.

"About a mile down the road," pointed Callisto unfazed by Xena's outburst.

"Now what do we do?" asked Julie peering down toward where Callisto pointed to where the second temple was. She couldn't see it but she finally understood the uneasy feeling she had felt pulling her two ways. She hadn't been able to pin point the cause of her confusion till her brother's disclosure.

"The only option there is...we split our forces," answered Joseph with a disgusted tone to his voice. He didn't want to do that, divide and conquer was a basic combat concept, and he knew in this war, it could prove vital.

"We can't! We have to stick together!" argued Julie, obviously upset by this turn of events. She wished she had sensed the other temple better earlier, it would have left more time for a better plan. But the battle time was upon them and there was no time now. Xena did not want to split either, she knew it was bad but they were out of choices and a half-god would have a better chance against the god than anyone else.

"He's right, we have no other choice. We take out one, the other succeeds, there simply isn't enough time to take out both," agreed Xena relenting.

"But who goes where?" asked Gabrielle.

"Xena, Gabrielle, Callisto, go take out Hope and Ares," Joseph began.

"What about me?" asked Julie with a puzzled look as to why she hadn't been mentioned. Everyone could see that he was mulling this decision carefully. He chose what any big brother would choose. The choice that would keep her the safest considering the circumstances.

"Sis...go with Xena, she'll need all the help she can get," finally answered Joseph, a deep sadness stretched across his face. Julie had a really bad feeling all the sudden.

"No! I want to go with you!" argued Julie, tears growing in her eyes. He was one of the most important things in her life.

"No, go with Xena. With Ares there, its going to be that much harder to get to Hope, even with Callisto's help," informed Joseph.

"But what about you? The other temple is bound to have just as many guards," shot back Julie.

"Maybe, but Ares more than makes up for any amount of guards a temple can have," retorted Joseph. Trying to grasp at anything to convince her Xena needed assistance more.

"No, I won't let you go off against this other temple alone!" shouted Julie, her emotions over clouding her judgment.

Joseph glanced up at Xena. At once, he realized that she agreed. Xena knew she would need all the help she could get, especially since Callisto was unreliable at best. She nodded in agreement. Joseph turned his attention toward his little sister bringing her closer to him.

"Look, Hope must be taken out. There's still a chance I'm wrong, but if I'm not, I'm going to need every advantage I can get. I'm sorry sis, but having you there would only make me hold back. With you being here, I can cut loose and not worry. When you guys are done here, you can come and see if you can help. At least by then I will have an idea whether or not I can take whatever awaits over there," calmly spoke Joseph looking his sister in the eyes. He put his hands on her shoulders. She knew he was right, in a sense, but she hated the idea.

"Sniff...ok...fine, we kick Hope's ass. But you bet, we're coming to back ya up afterward," finally Julie gave in, wiping the tears from her eyes. She was starting to accept the inevitable and collect herself.

"That's my sis. Now, you guys go show Hope what happens when they mess with Xena and company," urged Joseph with a smile. Julie returned it but it didn't reach her eyes.

"Don't worry, we will," replied Julie, her bravery now coming back in place of the little girl that had come thru moments ago.

"Callisto, where was that temple exactly?" asked Joseph just to be sure.

"Just follow the road there, it can't be more than a mile," answered Callisto.

"Alright. I'll see you guys in a little bit. Whip some ass," Joseph said with a wink toward Julie as he soared off into the air waving goodbye. As he flew out of sight, Xena gave Gabrielle one more last quick hug and let her go. She also squeezed Julie's shoulder.

"Ready?" asked Xena as she stood in front of both.

"Yeah," they responded in unison. Callisto just didn't respond.

"Let's go," responded Xena as all four started for Hope's temple. The minute they were down the hill the priests saw them and began to advance.

As he flew, Joseph found the second temple easily enough. Exactly where Callisto said it was, right around a mile down the road, Joseph surmised. He landed in the nearby woods, with out a sound, where he peered out from the brush to sum up his competition. He could feel it, it was weak, but it was there. The same feeling, the same presence he got when he met Dahok in the future. Joseph knew he was here, but where, and how strong was he? These questions floated around as Joseph looked out, he counted at least fifty guards, they were going to be no problem, it was what was in the temple that worried him. He continued to make mental notes of various things, the shape of the temple, exits and entry ways, just in case he would need it. He thought for one moment about his sister hoping they would be reunited but was also prepared for the worst. The look he had exchanged with Xena before leaving had assured him the warrior would care for Julie. He knew the time had come.

"Alright...let's do this!" Joseph said to himself, getting himself ready as he emerged from his hiding place instantly gaining the attention of all the guards. The guards looked as if they had been expecting something.

"Look! There he is! The one Dahok told us about, the warrior from the future!" yelled one guard close to the main entrance. Obviously Dahok knew they were there, and knew that Joseph might find out about the second temple. The god had taken no chances. It was probably where he had gotten the idea suddenly for a second temple in the first place.

"I'll give you this one chance to flee. Run back to your families and friends. Stay and meet your maker," threatened Joseph as he stood poised for a fight. Joseph knew what he was going to do, he didn't want to do it, it was one of the reasons he made sure that his sister went with Xena. Using his godly powers as an unfair advantage was not something he did often but when time was of the essence he had no qualms.

"Ha! Infidel, we shall cut you down! CHARGE!" ordered the cloaked man as all fifty guards started toward him in a dead run. Joseph hated taking lives, it was one of the reasons he had taken up the job of being a hero, to save lives, not take them. But he knew there were some instances where someone has no choice, and this was one of those times.

"Then so be it!" shot back Joseph, his eyes glowing with a blue colored energy. He gathered two energy balls in both of his hands, rose his hands perpendicular to his body and fired. Instead of firing energy blasts, he fired two beams of energy, starting with the out-lying guards and swept inward. The beams were deadly. Instantly turning the guards to ash and cinder at one touch. Julie would hate him for doing this, but it was the quickest way through them, and he figured he needed all the time he could get, not knowing yet what he was facing.

Joseph quickly raced through the now charred grass which was now blowing in the breeze. He came upon the entrance, paused for a minute to look at the second massive stone building. It was a tad smaller than the other but just as imposing on the landscape and with just as many guards. He shook his head, then entered.

Back at Hope's temple, Xena, Gabrielle, Julie and Callisto were having a tougher time of it. Chobos, staff and sword were drawn. They fought bravely and as fast as they could. They knew the goal was to get this over with and find Joseph but they lacked the godly powers he had and worked fast considering. Callisto even lent a hand with fireballs taking out a few priests as they worked their way into the temple. A flurry of well placed blows took one guard out of the fight as another one took his place in front of Julie. The same was true for everyone else, Gabrielle and Xena were strapped with their hands full also. Callisto was even getting agitated by the amount of guards there was as more streamed out of the temple. Finally, after knocking out the final guard that rushed her outside the temple, Xena spoke.

"Alright, Callisto, get in there and wait for a good opportunity to take out Ares, us three will enter through there," ordered Xena as she pointed toward the main entrance, she wasn't counting on her help still but anything to distract their enemies would be helpful at this point. In an instant Callisto disappeared in a flash of fire. Catching a short breathe, Xena, Gabrielle and Julie had a few seconds respite from fighting, they then rushed into the temple.

"Prepare the sacrifices. Slit their throats!" they heard Hope order as they entered the main hallway that lead to the main chamber. Her voice was filled with a sense of urgency that made Xena feel slightly better knowing they seemed to pose a valid threat. Once again, guards were there to greet them as the three ran into the inner sanctum.

There were more than a score of guards to get thru to save the hostages and they all knew they were running out of time, so they all bared down and ran into battle. Julie, showing a rare glimpse of hatred, she dispensed of two guards with expertise forged into her through years of training with her brother. Gabrielle handled one of her own, knocking him across the head as Xena brutally assaulted two more, cutting them thru their midsection. But that wasn't the end of them, three more came storming out of the sacrificial hall. They could hear commotion coming from inside.

"How many of these guys are there?" asked Julie quickly knocking out another guard with a hard shot to the head. She was not tired per say but the monotony of the robed figures was wearing thin.

"Probably a lot more than what we've seen," replied Xena as she tried to embed one into the wall. Gabrielle silently polished off her foe and wasting little time, they rushed into the chamber. The couple worked tirelessly staying close, watching each others backs as well as their younger family member. They both seemed to have an understanding that if one was going to be dying today it wasn't going to be the girl they had come to love as their own.

Meanwhile, Joseph crept cautiously through the hallways. All the guards were ashes and he knew there would only be he and Dahok and he could feel Dahok. He was getting closer. He was slightly amazed that he hadn't run into any more guards. Either, Dahok had underestimated him or there was something far nastier than guards awaiting him. He hoped Julie was having much, if not more luck, as he was.

"Xena!" yelled Joxer with an enthusiastic tone. He was happy to finally see her as he had fulfilled his task and had been awaiting her arrival. But his joy was short lived as the priest who had just moments before, been trying to slit his throat, hit him hard across the head sending him crashing face first against the floor. Julie and Xena both winced internally at his face plant.

The three family members became once again engaged with more guards. Xena was dueling with four, Gabrielle paired off with two more, and Julie had three on her. Xena delivered calculating blows to two guards but the two others rushed her, grabbing her hands. Gabrielle wasn't fairing much better as one guard had taken her staff as she tried to hit him with it and smacked her hard across the face with it spinning her around. Julie was having just as many problems as she knocked one guard out cold with one blow but it left her open for a tackle which another priest was more than happy to execute, sending both of them crashing back into the hallway followed closely by another guard.

Julie, seeing this coming, used the guard's momentum against him, kicking him hard off her sending him hard against the wall then crashing down on the floor head first, he was dead on impact. The third guard jumped on her, making sure the grab her hands to try to take control of the chobos. Quickly, seeing the potential danger she was in, Julie wrapped her legs up around the guards waste and rolled him off backwards. Getting to her feet, she nailed the guy in the legs, stomach, arms and a fierce shot to the head sending him tumbling into the wall. Julie ran into the room to see Gabrielle fighting to get her staff back, where wrench and twist that Xena had taught her effectively, resulted in a guards empty hands and the return of her staff. She quickly put it to use and with great effectiveness, she nailed one guard upside the head taking him out of the battle.

Xena, being quadruple teamed seemed for the moment like she was in trouble. With two guards with a firm grasp of her arms, one beating her from behind and another from in front, it looked like the warrior princess might have a dilemma on her hands.

"Ares," growled Hope seeing Xena start to fight back. Xena took a shot to the mid-section from the guard in front of her. However, deciding she wasn't going to put up with this, she delivered a hard mule kick to the guard behind her, ripped her right arm away from the guard sending him reeling with a shot to the head, dispensing the one in front of her with a sharp blow. Gaining her second wind she pounded the man on her left also. This came just in time as Seraphin entered the fray armed with a knife charging Xena. Julie saw this, and started to head her off having been free of guards at the moment. However, Xena was ready. Xena caught Seraphin's arm and threw her backwards stumbling into a wall. Finally, having dispensing of all of her assailants, Xena was free of her foes. Gabrielle was still busy with a last attacker that was proving quite stubborn. Free of robed attackers, Xena and Julie regrouped. Joxer was still bumbling around on the ground trying to untie himself but they knew he would soon be free.

"Don't worry, they have to go through me before they get to you," assured Ares as he looked on at the devastation Xena and the others had caused already. Ares had an invested interest now with Hope carrying his child so he prepared to face off with his chosen.

Xena, seeing a moment to act instead of re-act, whipped out her chakram and threw it at the ceiling. Julie wandered what she was aiming at but a second later her question was answered. The chakram flew fast and true hitting a chain that held up some kind of lid, breaking the chain instantly. The chakram came back to Xena just as the lid-like object came crashing down extinguishing the fire pit that was located in the middle of the room. Julie looked about at the large inner chamber lined with pillars. Julie and Xena looked on waiting for the next onslaught hoping Gabrielle would be able to finish her attacker and that Joxer would be free soon.

Hope took a step forward with a look of both shock and anger on her face. Obviously, this was something important to the ceremony. The crash seem to silence the entire room as Gabrielle finally sent her last attacker flying up against a nearby counter, crashing through bowls and other containers, she walked over to Xena instinctively.

"Joxer, did you get it?!" yelled Xena as she looked over at Joxer who had finally untied his hands and got up to join the group.

"I got it," replied Joxer pulling out the hind's blood dagger from behind the hubcap-looking chest plate and tossing it toward Xena.

Hope gave an evil sneer as the dagger flew through the air as Ares leapt for it. However, it was too little too late for the god of war as Xena snatched it out of the air before he could.

"You want a taste of hind's blood, huh??" threatened Xena as she held the dagger menacingly at Ares as they started to circle each other. Julie and Gabrielle watched on. Gabrielle having a second now to think about what was going on, was torn again with intense emotions. The strongest of which was her worry for Xena. She knew this could be the end but She also knew her daughter had to be stopped at all costs, even her life or Xena's she realized. But where one went so did the other. There would be only enough of her left to finish this mission and maybe see Julie back to the future if Xena died. They both knew their bond's price and they gladly accepted it.

"This isn't over yet," replied Ares obviously preparing to do something. But just then there came a flash of fire as Callisto appeared. Julie, Gabrielle, and Xena were all surprised the crazy goddess actually finally showed. But not quite as surprised as Hope and Ares. Wasting no time or the advantage of surprise she fired a full force fireball at the god of war. Enveloping him from head to toe, Ares was flung backward crashing against the wall, slumping to the ground partially knocked out.

Xena turned and started for Hope as Julie and Gabrielle continued to look on. Julie knew she didn't have a chance at this point with any one. Everyone here was now leagues ahead of her with godly powers and fighting power. So the teen did what she was trained to do, stay out of the way when you can't help, but that did not stop the worry. Suddenly, they saw Xena rock back sharply. They could tell that Hope was using her power to push Xena away. It was now down to who had the greater will. Julie and Gabrielle had no doubt who would win this battle and that's what worried the bard the most.

In the other temple, Joseph entered a rather large chamber of the temple. He assumed from the decorations that it was the main chamber, but for some odd reason it was empty. However, the presence of Dahok was now greater than ever.

"I was beginning to wonder if anyone would ever show up," came a deep, dark voice from the shadows at the end of the room. There was a large fire that lit the center of the room as in the other temple that connected both to the destructive god.

"And miss this, I can't think of any other place to be right now," remarked Joseph turning to face the source of the voice. He honed in on the dark energy and faced the direction of the sinister voice.

"You may not, but I can. You want to be with your sister again, don't you. Making sure she's alright, making sure she's...safe," taunted the voice. Joseph strained to see any movement from the dark, but still couldn't see the source of the voice. This did worry him but he made no outward sign of this.

"She'll be fine, it's your daughter you should be worried about," shot back Joseph standing his ground.

"Hahaha...my daughter is more than a match for that little crew," mockingly laughed the voice. But Joseph knew better.

"I wouldn't be so sure about that. After all, your daughter has been killed how many times now??" retorted Joseph knowing this would raise the ire of the source of the voice, whom he now knew was Dahok.

"If at first you don't succeed...try and try again," replied the voice. Then the source was revealed. Stepping into the light, Joseph could see an oddly shaped skull appear atop a strong and mighty looking human body. Joseph guessed it was about his size and height. Dahok's muscles bulged, straining to be kept inside his body. The skull that made-up his face was not human. Horns stuck out from the top, and the facial bones were elongated, looking something like a dog. There was large slits where the ears would be located if they were there. And inside the black eye sockets glowed red eyes.

"What's the matter? My appearance not what you expected," asked Dahok as he stepped out of the dark in response to Joseph's puzzled look.

"Well, you sure don't look the same as the Dahok I've met," halfway joked Joseph eyeing his competition.

"Its just a matter of time. Soon I will grow into my perfect form. Once again I shall terrorize not only this earth, but the whole universe as well," roared the monster as it looked around at the surroundings.

"Over my dead body," retorted Joseph haughtily.

Xena was now struggling against the power of Hope. Julie, Gabrielle and Joxer looked on not knowing what to do. Every step Xena took was painful. It took every last inch of willpower she could muster only to move a few feet. But Xena would not be denied. Not when there was so much at stake. The lives of everyone she cared about and the future as she knew it as well.

"Do the little goddess, then its my turn!" encouraged Callisto also standing by watching the fierce battle of wills. Gabrielle gave her an odd look then returned her gaze to Xena. She sent every ounce of her strength to her partner. She felt the strain on her wife's body in her own smaller form and did everything she could without physically intervening.

Hope, seeing that Xena's willpower was winning out, upped the ante by now forcing the dagger which Xena held up to turn toward Xena's face.

"You can't stop the will of Dahok," announced Hope as Xena moved slightly closer. The statement that Hope made though was already becoming a lie as Xena forced herself forward.

Xena moved her left hand up to help push the dagger away from her face as she took another step toward the evil goddess.

By this time, Ares had recouped enough to take in what was going on. He looked over at Gabrielle.

"You know the stakes Gabrielle. Xena's fate is in your hands," Ares told her as she looked over at him realizing what would happen if she let Xena kill Hope. She was fighting with herself as strongly as her soulmate battled her daughter. Time was running out for her to make a decision.

Dahok lunged at Joseph. Joseph dodged and returned with a quick punch of his own which was blocked easily. Both god and half-god exchanged punches and kicks to no affect as each was successfully blocked and returned in kind. They fought around the room, their missed blows leaving gaping holes in the wall or sending decorations and other debris flying.

"You're quite good. But you are only a half-ling, nothing compared to me," growled Dahok as he missed another punch leaving his hand momentarily trapped in the wall.

"And you are not up to power yet, so I'd say we're even," retaliated Joseph as he aimed a swift kick toward the dark one's head which Dahok ducked, pulling his hand out of the wall at the same time.

Julie looked on in astonishment as Xena took another step and another. It seemed as if finally, Xena was winning and soon she would kill Dahok's little daughter, then they could go help her brother. Gabrielle rocked back and forth fighting the decision that she knew had to be made. Xena would die and she would be not long behind her love. But maybe if she could kill Hope there was a way for Xena to keep living.

Xena now took a defiant step. Xena knew the time was now and she meant to strike Hope down. Gabrielle ran a few last thoughts thru her mind. She knew the world needed Xena more than anyone else here. She knew that Julie and Solon would probably keep her grounded enough to stay on this earth long enough to do the good she wanted to. Gabrielle made a split decision and acted on it. So quickly Xena didn't even feel it coming. So seeing the imminent death of her bonded soulmate, with a rush of courage, she sprang over the extinguished fire pit with her staff and rushed toward Hope.

"No! Hope!" Gabrielle yelled as she ran toward her daughter. Julie went to stop her but she was too late. Gabrielle collided with Hope spinning her around, allowing her to see Xena one last time. Their eyes met, Xena knew what Gabrielle was doing. Sacrificing herself so that Xena could live. All at once Xena's arm stopped mid motion and she felt her heart break into a million pieces.

"Gabrielle!!" shouted Xena as she fell to her knees as she watched both Gabrielle and Hope fall into a lava pit that was located a few steps behind Hope.

"Xena!!" screamed Gabrielle back up as she vanished into the pit alongside her daughter.

"Gab..." stammered Xena, tears instantly welling up. The warrior couldn't believe it. She felt a sudden rush of conviction thru their link as if Gabrielle had come to terms with her coming death. But instead, before she could think Gabrielle had been their grabbing onto Hope. She had decided to die for love. Something that was as much a part of Gabrielle as her laugh or her eye color. Xena knew but as she saw Gabrielle fall to her death, Xena's soul almost ripped from her body to go with her soulmate. Instead almost everything inside her shut off as she knelt there devastated.

"Gabrielle!!" shouted both Joxer and Julie as they rushed up beside Xena looking down into the lava pit.

"You're looking a little pale. You sure you feel alright," smirked Joseph as he crossed his arms in front of his chest to block another punch from Dahok. He was trying to get Dahok to loose his temper. Joseph knew that by doing that, it made Dahok more open for mistakes. He felt a ping of sharp sadness hit him from his limited connection with his sister. He knew something was happening but concentrated on the fight at hand and hoped it was something she could handle without him.

"My health is not of your concern. Especially when your death is so imminent," shot back Dahok as he leapt into the air to avoid a leg sweep by Joseph.

Dahok came crashing down trying to land a kick to Joseph's head. Joseph barely dodged out of the way and came up behind the monster. Dahok turned and at exactly the same moment both landed a fierce punch to each other's face sending both reeling backwards. Both staggered for a moment, surprised at the power each one possessed.

"Nice warm-up," spoke Joseph as he adjusted his jaw. He was still feeling rather confident as he had staggered the other god.

"Yes, fun's over," replied Dahok doing the same.

"Agreed. Let's end this," replied Joseph as the two dashed toward each other engaging one another once again.

"Hahahahahahahahahahaha..." laughed Callisto bringing her hand to her mouth as she approached Xena, Julie and Joxer.

"I never thought I'd feel so good again! Seeing poor, dear Gabrielle sacrifice herself makes it all worthwhile. It finally gives me a reason, for living, and I have you to thank for it, Xena! I think I will take Joseph up on his offer..." revealed Callisto as she continued to laugh behind Xena's back.

Xena, out of anger, out of revenge, out of hatred, spun around sending the hind's blood dagger into Callisto's stomach. Callisto lurched in pain, trying to comprehend what had just happened. Julie looked back at what had happen and she was glad she had. Joxer was just in awe at the carnage that was taking place.

"No more living for you," spoke Xena as tears ran down her face. Callisto, now realizing what had happened reached for Xena. Julie and Joxer, tears also running down their faces looked on helplessly. Callisto's hand reached Xena's shoulder as Callisto slowly fell to the ground with a slight smile across her face. Finally, Callisto had gotten what she had sought out so incessantly...oblivion. Xena turned and once again knelt by the lava pit along with Julie and Joxer as the tears ran freely from all three. Xena let the tears come. Julie slid closer to and let her head rest on the warrior's shoulder and Xena rested her cheek on Julie's hair just barey but it was a sign that she was still somewhere inside but was shutting down to keep the pain at bay. Julie wanted to do the same but realized there were other things she had yet to do. But couldn't seem to move just yet.

There was the sound of thunder and cracks of lightning now all around. Ares, knowing the battle was over, slowly got to his feet and vanished with a display of blue light unnoticed by everyone.

Minutes went by as the three comrades mourned their beloved friend and family member, still the sound of thunder and cracks of lightning persisted. Then it came to Julie exactly what was still at stake, her brother was in danger. She could feel it inside her like when Solon had been in danger. She could still feel the evil that had been present before. That wasn't thunder and lightning they were hearing, it was the exchange of mighty blows.

"Joseph," Julie murmured through her tears.

"Wha.." asked Joxer as he slowly looked up.

"He...he needs our help," Julie said with a little more resolve forcing the sad emotions out of her mind for the time being.

Xena looked up at Julie. Julie could tell she was heartbroken and in no state for a fight.

"I've got to go," spoke Julie as she knelt over the body of Callisto and pulled out the hind's blood dagger with a sickening wet sound. She had a feeling she would need it. Julie looked at the goddess' body and knew the world was better off without her unpredictable madness but couldn't help feeling sorry for her death. She tried to see the good in all people even those who seemed all bad.

Xena just nodded in agreement as she turned to look down the pit once again. Julie wanted for Xena to come with her, but she knew Xena was in no shape for it. Julie slowly turned and started to make her way out.

"W..Wait," stammered Xena as she got to her feet.

Julie turned, tears still in her eyes.

"We finish this now," Xena said but her voice was empty. Xena was a warrior. This was her greatest loss and her greatest challenge. She would do what warriors do, rise to the occasion. If not for herself then for Gabrielle and a girl who she had come to love as close as her own. Xena was almost completely numb but her family was still worth fighting for and she would join her bard soon she knew. Joxer also stood up.

"I'm coming too," he softly spoke.

"Thank you," thanked Julie softly, her emotions once again getting the better of her at this sign of bravery and companionship.

"We better hurry," Julie spoke up as they slowly and unwillingly left the chamber where they had just lost a dear family member. But she didn't want to lose another so she left the temple and went to her brother.

Though at first they slowly made their way toward the second temple, still in shock and emotionally spent, somehow they put it behind them and hustled down the path to the second temple. As they grew nearer, the thunderous sound of mighty blows being exchanged became louder and louder. The evil presence that Julie had felt before she entered Hope's temple was now very prevalent. It nearly made her sick. Though it took close to ten minutes, mostly due to the emotional trauma they had just experienced, Julie, Xena and Joxer finally arrived outside the second temple.

As they looked around, trying to see any sign of Joseph, the fight echoed in the air. Julie peered around, seeing the small ash piles that lined the ground in front of temple.

"What were they doing? Did they have all these fires going at once?" thought Julie to herself as she closely examined one pile that had all but blown away. She had no clue at the moment that they were humans once.

Xena noticed that small chunks of the temple had crumbled away. The small pieces of rubble now lined the perimeter of the temple on all sides. Everyone, including Joxer knew there was a tremendous fight going on inside. They knew Joseph was one, but who or what was he fighting? The question answered itself.

There was a loud crack as if lightning had suddenly struck something. A second later, the side of the temple exploded as a projectile came flying out of it. Julie, Xena and Joxer quickly dodged the debris as it littered the area around them. After making sure all the rubble had fallen, they looked up to see what had flown out. There, directly infront of the bright sun, was a figure. Julie and Xena instantly knew who it was. It was Joseph. He was breathing heavy, his clothes were ragged and torn, and they could just pick up a faint shine of blood on his arms and chest.

"GET OUT OF HERE!!" ordered Joseph as he noticed that they had arrived.

"Ah! There you are! I wondered where you flew off to!" shouted Dahok as he appeared from within the temple. Xena, Julie and Joxer turned and looked for the first time at what Joseph was fighting.

"My God," whispered Julie, knowing that this monster was Dahok. The presence of evil was what she had felt outside the cave when she had first stumbled onto Dahok. Stronger than what it was inside Hope's temple, stronger than it was before Dahok appeared in the future. This was the reason they had come back. Not in his final form, yet his energy was compacted and pulsing. Julie's head hurt with its intesity, no one else seemed to notice save Xena.

Joxer fell to his knees, nearly fainting as Xena looked on. For the first time in her life, she was somewhat afraid of her opponent. However, Joseph stood there stalwart.

"Come and get some!" he shouted as the two adversaries shot toward each other. It was the irrisistable force meeting the immovable object. However, Julie and Xena were utterly astonished by what they saw or what they didn't see. Joseph and Dahok moved fast and furious. Loud explosions signified the two colliding. Julie and Xena could barely pick up their movements. Joxer was just completely lost and the only way he could tell there was a fight going on was the loud booming. They went this way, that way, infront of the temple, above it, coming within feet of Julie then dashing above the tree line. It took all the concentration Xena and Julie could muster just to follow them. Xena and Julie were both worried and did not like the fact that they just had to wait.

Joseph connected with a hard right to the face just to be given back a hard knee to the stomach followed by an elbow to the back of the head by Dahok. Joseph sailed downward but stopped just short of impacting on the ground and fired back upwards. Another fierce exchange and this time it was Dahok who was sent flying, but like Joseph, he stopped himself before impacting on the ground. Julie could almost feel every blow. She knew her brother was in pain. Then it came to her. Something he had told her long ago, when he first started training her.

"You must learn to make pain your friend instead of your enemy. Use it as another source of strength. Use it to help channel your emotions. Use it to your advantage. Remember, when the pain stops, you're either stronger for it, or dead because of it," he had told her long ago. As he stood there facing off with Dahok, she knew he was using the pain to motivate him, making him stronger and better for it. He used it almost like another energy source as much as he used his love for his family.

Joseph concentrated and quickly fired an energy blast at Dahok. Catching him somewhat off-guard, Dahok narrowly dodged the blast and returned one of his own. Joseph, seeing this coming, dodged Dahok's blast also as the two again collided trading blows.

Each blow of Dahok's echoed in the air as it impacted on Joseph, only to be returned in kind by Joseph. Julie was shocked, she had never seen her brother like this. The violence, the execution, the no holding back, there had never been an opponent that he would have to go all out for she guessed. The path of carnage that was being carved in the landscape and temple were awe inspiring.

The two mighty warriors clashed once again above the temple. Joseph ate a stiff left from Dahok, but returned it with a hard left knee to Dahok's stomach, doubling the god over. Seeing his opportunity, Joseph delivered a hard right uppercut sending Dahok's bone head reeling backwards. Joseph then descended, grabbing Dahok's ankle on the way down and with as much power as he could summon, threw Dahok down through his own temple. However, Joseph had mis-aimed, only by an inch as Dahok missed the sharp, pointed top of the temple and crashed through the ceiling, just right of center.

Not sitting by, Joseph quickly went down after the mad god. Circling around he blew through another side of the building, seconds later he appeared through the other side, using Dahok's body as a battering ram. Joseph circled around and sent Dahok through the remaining undamaged side appearing through the other with Dahok in his arms. Joseph stopped suddenly, picking Dahok above his head and sending him crashing into the ground below.

Julie and Xena watched in almost awe as they watched Dahok bounce and come skidding to a stop, leaving a large mound of dirt, grass, and rock behind him. The gash left in the earth, Julie quickly estimated that it was a good ten feet down. Joseph keeping up the pressure, came barreling down, sending Dahok through the mound that once existed behind him, exploding the mound as they blew through it. But Joseph's path of destruction didn't stop there, he continued through the woods, using Dahok as a godly tree cutter, only picking out the largest and the thickest trees to put Dahok through.

Joseph circled back around, he wanted to put him through the temple once again. But as he came closer, Dahok out of desperation, delivered a stiff forearm to Joseph's groin causing Joseph to immediately drop him and double over in understandable pain. Dahok quickly put some space between himself and Joseph. He had underestimated this half-god. Dahok now knew that he was in for the fight of his life and decided it was time to end this fight.

Joseph slowly recovered from the blow as Dahok made no moves to jump on the opening that had presented itself. Taking one more deep breath, Joseph dashed toward his foe delivering a sharp right as they met, but this was what Dahok was waiting for. Dahok fainted weakness, then shot his knee upwards with all his strength and energy, resulting in a sickening crack that Xena and Julie both heard. Julie felt her stomach try to unload her small lunch but didn't give in to the reflex. Xena winced. Blood and spit exploded from Joseph's mouth as he doubled over. Dahok seizing this opportunity, landed a double-axe handle blow to the back of Joseph's head sending him crashing into the ground. Julie rushed immediately to the edge of the crater that had been left from Joseph's impact.

"Joseph!!" cried Julie as she saw her brother lying face down below. Her heart was beginning to hurt watching the bloodbath.

"Huh...huh...ack!" Joseph breathed heavy, puking up blood as he slowly, painfully pulled himself up to his hands and knees. Dahok had somehow increased his energy rapidly and Joseph knew now Dahok was much stronger than he was. Julie looked down in horror. Now, for the first time, she could get a good look at his injuries and they were frightful. Blood streamed down his right arm from a gash, his right eye was swollen heavily, a large cut above his left eye was bleeding freely. She spotted a large slice across his chest as he leaned up on his knees looking up at her. And there were small cuts on both his legs. Those were the serious ones, other smaller scrapes and bruises littered his body. Julie wanted to run to him, to start bandaging him up, but Dahok arrived first.

"See godling, you are nothing. I give you credit, you put up a good fight, but in the end it was all for not," seethed the demented god as he picked Joseph up around the neck and dangled him in front of himself.

"You're wrong, it all matters in the end," replied Joseph, blood flowing from his mouth from the internal injuries he had suffered.

Joseph tried with all his might to deliver a blow but it was now easily blocked by Dahok. Dahok, an evil smile somehow growing across his bone face, nailed Joseph hard in the face sending him crashing into the grass above.

Joseph came to a stop after rolling some feet. He struggled now just to lift his head. Julie cried out in pain for her brother collecting his scattered whits. Suddenly, seeing his sister close now, his hope rose. There, tucked away in her belt, was the hind's blood dagger. There was still a chance to defeat the monster.

He heard Dahok's insistent laughing coming up the crater's edge. He could see Xena move closer to Julie, getting ready to fight the monster herself if need be. Julie would not be the one to fight the evil god. Xena kept herself close to the teen in a protective stance. Joseph knew the time was now. He summoned all his energy and dashed straight toward his sister. Julie blinked as he came closer, that was time enough for him to grab the dagger and be gone. She looked down, noticing the dagger missing and instantly knew what he was going to do. She hoped she had given him the chance they needed to win this. Joxer chose this time to slip off back toward the temple, he knew there as nothing he could do here and he wanted to keep vigil over the pit where his beloved Gabrielle had fallen. He also knew the prisoners needed to be released, it was the least he could do.

"Hahahahaha...little godling, you are finished! Give up now while you still yet breathe!" cackled Dahok as he walked triumphantly out of the crater, his muscles seemingly bigger than before.

Joseph stood, half hunched over on the opposite side of the crater. He hid the dagger in his hand. Holding it only like a professional would, cupping his hand down over the handle and keeping the blade flat against his forearm, Dahok had no idea what he was holding.

"Ah...huh...ah...huh...Alright you primitive puss-bucket. Let's finish this!" shouted Joseph gasping for breath.

"Insolent to the end I see," replied Dahok as he took Joseph up on his offer and flew toward him.

Dahok flew at him with determination, he was bent on making this the last stand of his opponent. Joseph, getting exactly what he wanted out of Dahok, stood his ground. Dahok came closer and closer. Time seemed to suddenly slow down. Joseph saw his opening as Dahok unleashed a punch, Joseph went with it. Though the pain was almost intolerable, Joseph kept conscious and with all his might shot his fist at the monster's heart. The dagger plunged into the monster's heart. Dahok let out a gasp of horror. Instantly, Dahok knew what had happened. He had been suckered in. He had the hind's blood dagger sticking in him. He was as good as dead.

The two stood there for a moment, Dahok still in the air with his fist outstretched, Joseph with his hand firmly around the dagger. Julie and Xena started to wonder who had gotten the better end of it. Julie had seen the dagger hit home but had also seen the devastating punch connect with her brother. This was the deciding moment.

Then, to Julie's horror, Joseph collapsed. Joseph was spent. As the tears started to fall from Julie's eyes, she saw an encouraging sight. Dahok fell flat on his back, the dagger now clearly visible, sticking out from his chest.

Joseph started to move. Once again, he slowly made his way to his hands and knees and started to crawl toward his sister and Xena. Julie and Xena hustled toward him as Joseph leaned back on his knees with a painful but victorious smile across his face. He had done it. The third time was the charm. He had finally beaten his greatest foe. He had defeated Dahok. Or so he thought.

As Julie neared, he could see the expression on her face turn from adulation to one of terror. He quickly looked toward Xena and saw her expression turn also to one of hate. Joseph barely made himself turn around. There, above the corpse of Dahok loomed what Joseph could only describe as the spirit of the beast. It loomed there menacingly as ever, seemingly more imposing than Dahok's physical body. Julie was scared with no physical form, she did not know what would happen with the monster. Xena stood ready for the worst, pulling Julie back to her side.

Making no speeches, or wasting any time the spirit of Dahok shot at Joseph. He didn't have time to react as the spirit entered Joseph's mouth. He could feel it start to take control of him. Julie gasped in horror at the sight of this. She saw Joseph's skin move unnaturally, almost in waves as the monster completely entered him. She saw the pain in his eyes.

Suddenly, Joseph felt his power return. It was as if he was brand new. However, his physical appearance hadn't changed. Joseph knew what this was. It was Dahok's way of tempting him. Dahok's way of getting him to submit to him. Joseph knew, just as Dahok did, that his chances of making it with his injuries were slim without Dahok's help, but Joseph was not going to give in.

Julie and Xena saw Joseph reach up and grab his head and then topple over. He writhed on the ground, fighting the demon who had just entered him. Julie could see his eyes change from the familiar blue-ish gray to fire red. The struggle going on inside, she surmised, was just as great as the one that they had just witnessed. Julie was so torn she wanted to run to her brother and hold him and heal his injuries. She wanted this to be over, she was so tired now she didn't know if she could stand to watch any more of the stomach-turning display. She was terrified now she was about to loose everyone in this mission including Xena. Xena still mostly numb did her best to protect the younger girl by her side now. She had even wrapped and arm around her not knowing what else to do at the moment knowing it was too dangerous at the minute to proceed to Joseph's thrashing form.

Joseph fought on, hearing the mocking laugh of Dahok in his head. There was no way in hell he was going to let Dahok take control of his body. But Joseph could feel Dahok getting a firm grasp of his body. There was only one way to end this, he needed help.

Joseph fought now with all his energy, all his will. And for a comforting but painful moment he knew he had control again. Julie edged forward with Xena right by her side.

"Bro?" sniffed Julie not wanting to really hear the answer, knowing that Dahok would probably win.

"Julie..." stammered Joseph once again gasping for air, his internal injuries coming back to the forefront.

"Joseph!" Julie shouted as she ran toward him arms outstretched ready to heave on him a huge, loving hug.

"Wait!" Joseph stopped her raising his bloody hand up.

"What..what is it?" she asked, concern now growing overwhelming.

"It's not over sis...You got to...You've got to finish me. Do it Julie, I can't hold him for much longer. I can feel his power, he doesn't have enough strength to pull that trick again. Use the dagger," informed Joseph exasperated as he nodded toward the dagger still imbedded in the body of Dahok.

"No! You can fight him! I know you can!" argued Julie.

"I...I can't. I have control now, but I won't be able to keep it. I can't risk having him take control of me, using my body to continue to grow, to continue to gain strength. Julie, you must do it now!" Joseph revealed. Julie could tell he was slowly losing his grasp. But she did not want to do what he was saying but would not let Xena do it even as the tall woman behind her was pulling at her shoulder for Julie to let her do it. The girl ignored the pull.

"Hurry!" Joseph pleaded as he felt Dahok coming again for another shot at control.

Julie unwillingly went for the dagger, pulled it out from the body as she did the Callisto's and quickly came back.

"Yo...You sure?" she asked, tears flowing down her face. She shot a look at Xena for strength.

"Th...There is no other way. We finish it now," stammered Joseph, tears welling up in his eyes as well. They knew how the other felt and she would not let anyone else do this no matter how much it hurt.

"I love you bro," stammered Julie as she rose the dagger high above her head.

"Me too kid," replied Joseph as he looked up at her.

"AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!" screamed Julie as with all the might she could muster she plunged the dagger into his bloody and bruised chest. There was an explosion of light. That blew Julie backward, Xena had to shield her eyes and turn her head as the light consumed everything around them.

The light disappeared and there was a heart wrenching silence. Julie and Xena stood there, trying to refocus their eyes. Several seconds later, to their great surprise, they saw no sign of a body. Either body. Both the bodies of Joseph and Dahok were now gone.

"Where..." started Julie as she feverishly looked around for any sign of her brother.

"Xena! Callisto's body has disappeared!" shouted Joxer as he came running down the path. Julie and Xena had not noticed his absence till he came back up to them. "I was releasing the prisoners and she disappeared!"

"That's what must happened when a god dies," Xena muttered, her emotions getting the best of her. She had seen more death today then she had a heart to handle.

"No, no, no, no, no, no, no..." Julie stammered, the tears growing more rampant. "NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!" Julie screamed letting the word tear from her throat, releasing all her emotions as she flung her head toward the sky.

They had completed their mission she thought. They had defeated Dahok and made the future safe once again. But the price for that freedom, was more than anyone of them should have to bare. They all stood there in the shadow of the crumbling temple. Julie was now numbing as her great great grandmother had done when she lost her soul in the fire. Xena came up behind her and wrapped her arms around the girl as Julie returned her embrace. And how long they stood there, they cant even remember. But patient as always, Joxer waited next to the mourning family. Where to go from here was something none of them could answer just yet. They all hoped the morning light would bring answers or at least put some distance between them and the devastating tragedies that this afternoon had brought. And so, the now three left from the brave company, retrieved their belongings from the hill that was now over looking an empty structure. They walked for miles to a secluded glen far off the road and bothered not with dinner but just unrolled their bed rolls, Xena's and Julie's especially close taking comfort in each other. The fire that they had built burned long into the night as did the watch of the sad face of Joxer on the other side of the fire watching over his pain stricken friends.