* * * XENA'S SACRIFICE * * *

Gabrielle, coughing and sputtering from the heat and smoke of the crematorium clutched at Xena's arms and pulled herself up. In a few moments, she began to breathe a bit easier.

"Xena, thank the gods."

She looked up and noticed that Xena was looking just past her head. She seemed dazed and was not focused. Gabrielle looked closely at her rescuer and knew something was amiss.

"What's wrong with your eyes?" Gabrielle asked her. She had a strange look on her face, not quite believing what she was sensing.

"I'm blind, Gabrielle." The statement was said in an almost matter of fact way.

"What? That's not possible. What happened, Xena? What can we do? There must be something we can do."

Gabrielle was anxious, hoping that something, anything, could be done.

"The cure is Egyptian Senna. You can get it in Athens. But by the time we get there it will be too late." Xena replied.

Gabrielle was stunned. She looked at Xena not believing what she was hearing or seeing.

"Noooo!" She wailed as she wrapped her arms around Xena and began to sob against her chest.

"This is not going to be easy. " She stroked Gabrielle's hair.

"We need to go somewhere, Gabrielle. I can't see. I can't defend you. I can't even walk without a guide. I need to think. I need a plan. Then, we need to talk. This changes everything about us and what we've become!"

"Xena, I'm here for you. No matter what, I will not leave you, not now not ever. The Bard paused. She wanted Xena to know that not everything had changed. "Now, where do you want to go?"

"First, we need to get Argo. I left her outside the city gates. Then I want you to take me to a cave? it's in a remote area? but we can make it before nightfall. We'll be safe there."

Gabrielle reached to take Xena's hand. But Xena, feeling the contact which she could not see, quickly pulled back. Then, realizing what she had done, lowered her hands to her sides in defeat. Gabrielle again reached for her hand, slowly this time, whispering.

"I'm here, Xena. I'm here!"

This time she was allowed to hold it.

Gabrielle led Xena down the worn pathway from the castle. She could feel the tension in the warrior but decided not to say anything. She thought of Xena's sacrifice and a tear fell down her cheek. She quickly reached to brush it away so Xena would not see it and then the truth of their predicament hit her with the force of a hammer. Her thoughts tumbled over each other, but one painful fact assailed her? Xena has given her sight in order to save me from the fires of the crematorium. Her tears fell freely as she wondered how she could ever repay her warrior's sacrifice.

"Gabrielle, you'll have to be my eyes for a while."

Disconcerted, Gabrielle responded, "Xena, I will be your eyes for the rest of our lives. Why do you say a while?"

The warrior did not answer that question, but instead said, "I left Argo at the edge of the woods to the left of the gates. Can you see her?"

Gabrielle looked but did not see Argo and she grew concerned. She didn't know if she should voice that concern to Xena when she heard her question.

"You don't see her?"

"No, she's not there." She replied.

Xena cursed then another thought came to her. She stopped, took her hand out of Gabrielle's and put both index fingers to her lips and whistled loudly. A neigh
sounded from the woods and suddenly, Argo was running towards them. Xena smiled as the horse galloped to a stop in front of her, the horse pushing her head against Xena.

"That's my girl." She nuzzled Argo in return

Gabrielle, standing to the side, watched the display of affection between them and realized it was the first time Xena had smiled since she'd held her in the crematorium.

"We'll make better time if we both ride" Xena said.

"Xena, you ride. I'll walk. Just tell me where you want me to lead you."

That statement continued to reinforce Xena's sense of despair and futility. She did not want to be a burden to Gabrielle nor have to rely on Gabrielle or anyone else for that matter, to lead her. But for now, she had to allow it. She had no choice. She needed to get to that cave.

"We should go East, up the road. Just before you get to the top of the hill, there is a small pathway hidden in the trees and marshes. Keep alert, it's easily missed. Let's go."

Gabrielle took Argo's reins and began walking up the road. She had no idea where they were going or how long it would take. She decided she should talk to Xena on the journey about how they would manage their lives now. And as she began thinking a dominant thought came to her mind. We can go to the Amazons. Maybe it is time to go home.

She didn't know what Xena had in mind. She would wait to find out. But in the meantime, she was comforted by the thoughts of them going home. She knew she would have to play that carefully. Xena was in a difficult state and she knew this walk to the cave was the calm before the storm of realization that she would forever be dependent on Gabrielle. The bard only hoped that Xena would allow her to be her eyes and care for her. The warrior might have other plans, but she would face that when the time came.

"How far up the hill is this pathway, Xena?"

"As you get near the top, there is a set of three boulders marking the beginning of the path. Look for them," she replied.

"I see 'em."

"Walk behind them and look ahead of you towards the woods. You'll see a very slight pathway into the woods. Follow that pathway. But be careful, there are marshes and quicksand all around."

She did as she was told, following the path as it wound its way into the woods. The deeper they moved into the woods, the darker it grew and she commented on that to Xena.

"That's the plan" said the Warrior. "Keeps out all but the very interested."

The air inside the thickening woods became cooler.

"Xena, are you cold?"

"No!" came the sharp reply.

Instantly, her feelings were hurt by the shortness of the reply, but she knew this was just the start of what would become their most difficult journey together.

They continued through the woods and the trail seemed to be winding back and forth. She led them to what appeared to be a fork in the pathway, but she wasn't sure and hesitated.

"Xena?" she began.

Her question was answered before she could form the words. Xena had noticed the slight hesitation in Argo's gait and knew instinctively they were at the fork in the pathway.

"Take the right fork, Gabrielle. It will take you up the side of the cliff. But be careful. The path becomes difficult."

The fact that Xena noticed the change in the terrain without being told, made Gabrielle somewhat hopeful. If she was able to recall so much after so long, then keeping her in familiar surroundings might be the best solution. And again, the Amazon lands came to mind. Perhaps with time, she would adjust to the blindness she thought.

The path did become more treacherous and at times Gabrielle slipped on the unsettled rocks and gullies which cut into the trail. They climbed higher and higher up the side of the cliff, turning around craggy peaks, jutting rocks and towering trees clinging to the rocks with their gnarled roots. The trail gradually disappeared and they seemed to be climbing by momentum and without direction. Xena had not directed them and had stopped talking completely after the fork in the road.

The sun had gone behind the gathering clouds and the threat of a storm loomed around them. Gabrielle quickened her pace and eventually she rounded a particularly large rock and stopped. They had come to a flat area on the cliff. The sound of water could be heard nearby. Ahead of her was what seemed to be an opening to a cave. All around, were towering trees forming a canopy overhead.

When she stopped, Xena knew they had arrived.

"We're here, Gabrielle." She slid off Argo's back as Gabrielle rushed over to help her. Xena brushed aside her hand with her arm.

"I'm fine! Let me be!" she said sharply.

Gabrielle pulled back from the sharp words but held her tongue.

She watched as Xena stopped and instinctively surveyed the area. She made her way to the entrance of the cave. She saw Xena raise her head to sense the winds and the air as she slowly meandered towards the entry. Xena reached out her hand and felt the rock wall. Even after all this time, and now, without sight, she knew where she was and that her blindness could be managed for a while at this place.

* * * SANCTUARY? * * *

Xena entered the cave ahead of Gabrielle. In the blackness of the cavern, blindness was not a handicap. The longer she remained in her darkened world the more her other senses compensated.

The words of Lao Ma came back to her now, "Fill yourself with desire and see only illusion, empty yourself of desire and understand the great mystery."

What would be my desire; to see again? She wondered. What would I be required to give to see again? I already gave my sight to save Gabrielle.

She began to realize that desiring the past would prevent her from embracing her life to the fullest now. Right then she decided she would stop all desire for sight. It was gone. She would learn to see with the rest of her senses and use her mind as Lao Ma had taught her.

Her reverie was broken when Gabrielle spoke.

"By the gods, Xena, what is this place? It's beautiful."

"Once when I was badly injured in a battle, I stayed here. Somehow, Argo found it ? saved my life. This cave is very special to me, Gabrielle. I've never brought anyone else here."

Xena noted the spitting and sputtering sounds that Gabrielle's torch made and she recalled her own awe when she'd first laid eyes on this place. Even as a callous warlord, Xena had been stunned by the beauty of this place. She thought back to that time. She had stumbled on this cave by accident many, many seasons ago. She had been severely injured in a battle and Argo had simply carried her from the field. She was barely conscious, but did remember a few details along the way. The horse seemed to be guided by an intuitive understanding of the Warrior's needs. She soon brought her to a small creek and stopped. Xena slid off Argo's back and crawled slowly to the edge of the water. Her face fell forward and she drank greedily, feeling a bit refreshed.

After drinking her fill, she pushed herself up on her hands and side, and looked around and saw that she was on top of a cliff. The creek was only a small tributary of a larger body of water that coursed below the cliff. As she took in her surroundings, she saw what seemed to be an overhang of rock. She decided to head for the overhang thinking it would provide some shelter as evening came. As she approached the overhang, her eyes adjusted to the changing dimension. The overhang was actually the entrance of what seemed to be a cave.


She found her memories flooding back as she described what she remembered to Gabrielle.

"Look at the back wall, Gabrielle? Straight ahead where it looks like draperies of gold in a king's palace, and there off to the left of it hanging from the ceiling; doesn't it look like chandeliers? And underneath them are white and gold icicles growing out of the ground."


"Oh look, Xena, those rocks look like a throne." Then she hesitated and faltered, realizing what she'd said. Her heart was so very heavy. Xena could never again have the pleasure of seeing something like this. "I? I'm sorry Xena? I didn't mean? this is so hard..." her voice tapered off miserably.

Xena turned toward Gabrielle; surprising herself that her memories of this young woman were so vivid she thought she was surely seeing Gabrielle.

"We'll get through this, Gabrielle. We accept what is and go on. I will deal with this or else."

Because if I don't, my love, there is no future for us, she thought to herself. In an attempt to divert Gabrielle's attention, Xena continued her description of the cave.

"These formations are caused by rain water seeping down through the rock over the years. Besides the beauty there's fresh water, just over there, to the left of the entrance, about ten feet in. See it?"

Xena could hear the soft sounds of the water as it dripped down the wall and into the pool. She didn't need to see it; she could hear it and know exactly where it was.

"It is perfect, Xena." Gabrielle held the torch high and allowed the light to play over the multicolored rocks, making shadows that danced like Pan's mythical wood nymphs.

"And there's plenty of room for all our gear."

"I holed-up in here for over a month, Gabrielle. Argo took me from the battlefield and found her way here. I know she was led by some power or force because this place was too well hidden. But it was here I regained my strength and mended my body. Over the years, I've used this place whenever I needed to get away or to think. It's why I asked you to bring me here."

"This place will give me ?.us time to make some adjustments." She continued.

Xena knew this was just another challenge in her life, a life already so filled with challenges. Again the words of Lao Ma came to her, "To conquer others is to have power; to conquer yourself is to know the way." Xena's mind was far away in Chin when she realized Gabrielle was talking to her.

"? and a nice fire ring near the entrance. That's a good idea to keep the smoke away from these gorgeous formations. I'll go and get some fire wood. Why don't you rest?" Gabrielle said as she dropped their bed rolls to the smooth packed earth.

Xena's arm snaked out and snagged Gabrielle as she made to move past her.

"Gab-ri-elle." She enunciated each syllable slowly in the way that meant this is your only warning.

"Xena, I only want to do my part. You've been in a major fight, had your vision taken away and burned your hands, you need to take care of yourself. Please, give yourself a chance to heal."

"I am not an invalid. I don't need someone to take care of me!"

Gabrielle turned back to their packs, the hurt of those words like a slap in the face. Xena could not see the pained look on Gabrielle's face. But the sound of her harsh words rang in her own ears and she wished she could take them back. Gabrielle's stifled sigh, told her they'd hit their mark.

Xena's expression softened and she moved toward the sound and pulled Gabrielle into a close embrace. She rested her chin on her bard's head.

"Gabrielle, I know you want to take care of me, but I must learn to do things for myself. I couldn't live if I was a burden to you. Now, gathering firewood seems a small task that's within my many skills. And with a storm so near, I need to do my part."

Gabrielle smiled against Xena's breast at that last remark and Xena, feeling the change in her younger companion, knew all was forgiven. There was a sound of thunder outside, announcing that the impending early summer storm was in fact closing in.


"Sounds like I better get to it before that storm gets here. Why don't you see what you can scare up for dinner while I'm gone?"

Gabrielle knew when she was defeated and relented.

"Okay, but Xena, please be careful."

She was rewarded with a smile.

Gabrielle knelt on the ground and began rooting through their pack and pulling out their water skins as Xena moved off toward the entrance by feel. Years of living by her wits, under the constant threat of attack had honed all her senses to a razor's edge. In fact this whole experience of rescuing Gabrielle from the castle without benefit of her vision had reminded her how important it was to keep all those skills honed.

As she stepped into the fading daylight, she paused to acclimate herself to her surroundings. She heard the wind rustle the leaves in the forest canopy overhead. She began to identify where each tree was. As she stood there, Xena again recalled her training with Lao Ma. She remembered that the same chi energy that Lao Ma would shoot out of her hands could be used in other ways. She opened herself and allowed the energy within her body to expand outward from her skin. As her energy field encountered each rock, tree and bush, she was able to map the terrain in her mind. She opened her mouth and took a breath and could taste the coming storm on the back of her tongue. It had an earthy moist taste, almost like mulch. The breeze on her skin, told her the storm was from the north and would bring cold rain and soon. She needed to hurry.

She walked without hesitation. Using the lessons of Lao Ma, she released her chi, letting it show her obstacles and exposed roots, while revealing the loose branches she sought.

Moving steadily away from the cave's entrance, she'd been hunting wood for their fire for about a quarter candlemark. With an arm full of good dry wood, she now heard the noise of rushing water, close yet not. She knew from her previous time here that there was a seventy five foot cliff overlooking the river below. She moved slowly toward the sound to better familiarize herself with the area.

Xena recalled the way the land at the top of the canyon, had been covered in shale and rubble, making the footing hazardous. Just as the toes of her boots made contact with the loose rocks that she had remembered, there was a brilliant flash of light followed almost immediately by an ear splitting clap of thunder. The sound was so deafening she couldn't hear the massive branch that had been ripped from the giant oak next to her. The huge limb struck Xena's head and shoulder with a solid thwack throwing her off balance. She was suddenly air born and hurtling over the cliff.

She tossed the firewood as far from her as she could so she'd be able to grab on to something and prevent her inexorable tumble down to certain death on the rocks below. Her arms and legs thrashed madly grabbing at thin air trying for any kind of purchase. The first boulder she smashed into struck her in the middle of her back and drove all the air from her lungs. But it did nothing to slow her descent. She continued her downward slide. Using her fingernails to dig at the rocky soil in the futile hope of stopping her plunge, she didn't notice as her bones broke and fingers twisted. In desperation she grabbed at rocks and small tenacious trees fighting for her life. Then she dropped free through space and landed on a ledge 30 feet down, striking her head. She knew she was badly hurt and probably dying. Her last thought, as consciousness waned was of her life companion and soul mate and that she had never told her how she felt. She whispered one word, a prayer "Gabrielle" as the darkness closed in.

*** *** ***
Gabrielle looked around the cave again, assuring herself that everything was in order. Over the years she'd become adept at setting up camp. The beauty of Xena's special place took her breath away. Her eyes were drawn repeatedly to the play of color and light as the torch reflected off the incredible rock formations.

With the melancholy of her worries about their future still uppermost in her mind, she sighed deeply. Ever the optimist, Gabrielle was confident she and Xena would find a way to make their life together work. It would just take some creativity. Yes, creativity and hard work, but were they up to it? They'd never shied away from challenges in the past; this would be no different. Still Gabrielle hoped to convince the stoic warrior that recovering in the safety of the Amazon village might be the best course of action.

Okay, what's next? Xena won't be able to hunt. Well, she wasn't so sure anymore that that was true. If anyone could adapt to blindness, it would be Xena. For tonight at least, it would be up to Gabrielle to provide their dinner. She grabbed her staff from where it leaned against the wall near their sleeping furs. Xena had only been gone a short time. Gabrielle had time to explore outside a bit, and see what might cross her path to make a meal.

Stepping outside the cave entrance, Gabrielle stopped in almost exactly the same place as her warrior had stood a short time before. Closing her eyes as Xena had taught her she listened. Quieting her breath, she waited as the calm extended to her heart. Standing there patiently for almost 3 full minutes, she heard it, the gobbling call that meant wild turkeys were nesting nearby. Holding perfectly still until she felt sure she'd identified the
location of the sounds. Yes, about 25 yards off to the east, she smiled. Opening her eyes Gabrielle strode confidently out in that direction.

The trees opened up near the stream they'd crossed earlier. Across a small dell, Gabrielle could see the thicket she was certain held her quarry. Bringing down a wild turkey with only a staff would be quite a trick since these birds tended to be smart and resourceful. At the edge of the trees, she stopped and listened. This time there was a flash of light near the canyon behind her and then a several moments later the clash of thunder. The storm was upon them. She needed to get their dinner and head back to the cave. Xena would return soon with the firewood.

Now Gabrielle employed another trick Xena had taught her. She allowed her eyes to become unfocussed and just gazed easily at the thicket knowing that without trying her eyes would see what was out of place. There, just at the far end of the brush, was the dun color she sought. That would be the female guarding the nest. At the same moment, the male in full plumage appeared on the opposite side of the clearing. His purpose was clear, to draw her attention. Gabrielle was not to be distracted.

Another flash of lightning and clap of thunder reminded her to get going. She moved forward and the female began to make a frantic racket. The male charged her with his feathers spread in a magnificent display of power. He was desperate in his attempt to drive her away from their nest. Waving her staff at him, she forced the big bird back. Still using her staff, Gabrielle parted the bushes, and saw the nest. It held 7 large eggs. With a look of remorse for the frantic parents, she removed three of the eggs and stepped back.

"I'm sorry little mother. My partner is hurt and we need this food. Thank you for your sacrifice."

Gabrielle thanked Artemis's creatures in the Amazon way. Then she dropped the eggs into her waist pouch. Turning away from the thicket, Gabrielle made her way back to the cave.

She had just stepped inside the entry when a huge flash of lightening and loud thunder occurred almost simultaneously.

"By the gods, Zeus is angry. Please hurry Xena." She spoke her thoughts aloud. As though summoned by Gabrielle's voice, Xena seemed to call her name.

"Gabrielle."

Gabrielle stopped. She knew she'd not heard that with her ears but with her heart. Xena had called to her; and knew she was in trouble. Gabrielle needed to get to her quickly.

Rushing outside Gabrielle called, "Xena!"

Putting her hands to her mouth she shouted again, louder and with more urgency, "Xenaaaa.".

With the noise of the storm all around, her words were thrown back into her face. With rising panic, she screamed Xena's name again, but to no avail. Her words were useless. Oh by the goddess, where is she? What has happened to her? Gabrielle was becoming frantic with worry, and her tears were hot against her face as they mixed with the cold rain falling.

Her mind screaming with unnamed fear, one question was paramount. "Xena where are you?"

She had no doubt that Xena needed her and needed her NOW. Standing helplessly Gabrielle looked around the woods having no idea in which direction Xena had gone. Then suddenly, a thought flashed through her mind and Gabrielle gasped in remembrance of her time in the temple with Artemis.

* * * ANOTHER TIME, A NEW QUEEN * * *


The giant beeswax candles reflected off the many shields, one of them a simple piece of painted raw hide stretch tightly over its frame. Others were of carved wood or hammered metal with bone and feathers hanging down each side. These were the shields of ancient Amazon queens gone to the land of the dead many years before. Their shields held places of honor in Artemis's Temple. Sconces were recessed into the walls giving off an incandescent golden light adding to the mysticism of the place. Terracotta pots held flowers in a riot of color. The floor was covered with the furs of animals that had been hunted for the food and supplies the Amazons needed for daily life. The most beautiful of the furs were given as tribute to the goddess who protected her chosen people.

The next Amazon queen stood before the plain granite altar of Artemis. The purple and blue queen's mask, trimmed in gold feathers sat in its center. Gabrielle would don it when she was called for the ceremony. She'd spent the night in fasting and meditating in the hopes Artemis would appear and bless her new chosen queen. Gabrielle was feeling more than a little inadequate for the task at hand. Velesca had challenged and killed Melosa. It appeared that would be Gabrielle's fate too, if she couldn't make Velesca see reason.

The young woman, dressed in ritual coronation garb, had been sitting on a stone bench in front of the altar for eight hours, keeping vigil. She didn't feel very much like royalty at the moment. She glanced down at her body, covered now in a russet colored leather halter and short fighting skirt, trimmed in silver and gold swirls. They reminded her of Xena. The pattern was so similar, that she had to stifle a sob. She was as close to bereft as she could remember being. Xena's body was in the queen's hut lying in state until her funeral pyre would be lit this evening.

A single tear slipped down Gabrielle's cheek and all the emotion she'd held poured forth. It was as if a dam had finally burst and she wept. She cried for Xena, who died without ever achieving her redemption, for the times they'd had and the times that were still ahead of them. She thought she'd never stop crying, never know peace again, when she felt a warm comforting presence and looked up through tear fogged eyes into the radiant face of the goddess Artemis. Her breath caught in her throat.

"Why do you cry, Little One?"

Gabrielle sniffed and cleared her throat. "For my friend, Xena. I can't imagine my life without her. I'm sorry. I know I am supposed to be preparing myself to serve as the new queen, but I feel so inadequate." She paused expecting the goddess to agree.

When nothing was forth coming, she looked up into soft kind golden eyes. "Guess you wish Terreis had given her right of caste to someone more fit to be your queen."

"No, Terreis chose wisely, Gabrielle. It was no accident that you were on the road that day when the ambush occurred."

Gabrielle was shocked. This was news to her.

"You mean you want me to be queen? How can I lead? My beliefs won't allow me to kill. I am not of royal blood. I only know one weapon and have few other skills."

The goddess laughed, a clear round sound like a bell.

"My child, do you think I leave my queen, my chosen unprotected? You have a low opinion of me." She chuckled to lessen the implication that she might be insulted.

"No, you shall be my queen and you shall rule wisely. I always give my queens special powers to use when in need and I give them to you as well. I give you the power of the eagle which allows you to 'see' far vistas and find what you seek. As the wolf calls to her pack mates, I give you this same gift, to call your Amazon sisters when in need. And I give you one final gift, the "gift of the chosen", which is not to be used lightly." She looked hard into Gabrielle's green eyes.

"I promise to answer your call when you have need. The power to call a god Gabrielle! Do not take this gift lightly." And with that she had disappeared in a flash of silver light.


* * * GABRIELLE USES HER GIFTS * * *

"The power to? find what you seek?" replayed in her mind. Not quite sure how to call upon the power, she started out hesitantly.

"Artemis, I need your help to find Xena." She whispered.

Nothing, only silence answered.

Realizing that something more was needed, she decided that a queen might be a bit more forceful and she began again.

Clearing her throat, she called in a strong voice.

"I invoke your promise to me, Artemis. I claim the power of the eagle!"

Within a moment, Gabrielle felt her spirit rising slowly into the sky. She felt as if she was floating on clouds or wind. She circled up and up higher until she could see her own body below her in front of the cave, and Argo grazing near by. Her vision moved towards a cliff, the edge covered in shale. There was an enormous tree split in half from the storm. Leaves and branches were strewn about Moving slowly on the air currents she found herself looking over the edge. There, midway down the ravine, she saw something. Her heart stilled and she had to force herself to breathe. Xena's body lay broken and bloody and was balanced precariously on a ledge. She was unconscious. A huge tree limb lay across her chest and shoulders.

"My love, my heart" she gasped, her heart racing.

Instantly Gabrielle was jolted back into her body. She took off at a run towards the cliff and then stopped, thinking, I'll need rope to get down to her.

At that moment the sky fully opened up and rain poured down, drenching her to the skin. Gabrielle hurried back inside the cave and snatched up their rope. She turned and ran as though shot like an arrow straight for the cliff and Xena.

The rocks were loose under her boots, the rain making it even more treacherous. She tied off one end of the rope to the trunk of the oak tree. It was the very one who's branch had struck the fateful blow to Xena's head. She thought; you knocked her off the cliff, now you're going to help me bring her back up. She dropped the free end over the edge. It fell past where Xena lay unmoving. Gabrielle grabbed the rope in her left hand then threaded it around her back and grasped it with her right hand. In this position she had more control and she slowly lowered herself down to Xena. Even as careful as she was, small landslides of mud and gravel rushed down the mountain side ahead of her spraying Xena's broken body.

Finally, her boots touched the ledge where Xena lay. Disentangling herself from the rope she rushed to Xena's side. She grabbed the massive piece of oak and heaved it off of Xena and over the side into the ravine below. It was clear that Xena had many injuries. Her head was bleeding profusely from a gash above the left eye and a dark, angry, purple bruise had already formed on Xena's left shoulder and it looked as if it was dislocated.

It occurred to Gabrielle that this was the shoulder that always gave Xena problems. There was a trickle of blood coming from the side of Xena's mouth, suggesting there may be internal injuries as well. Gabrielle put her face near Xena's nose and stilled her own breath. After what seemed an eternity, there was a shallow expulsion of air. She was alive, but for how long? The thought propelled her actions.

Gently, Gabrielle wiped some of the grime away from Xena's face and did a quick assessment of the rest of the wounds. The head may not have been as bad as it appeared. Head wounds always tended to bleed freely. Running her hands over the warrior's muddy wet body, Gabrielle found a broken left forearm and gashes and abrasions too numerous to count. Several fingers were broken or dislocated. They could be set by Gabrielle. The incessant rain pouring down was making this difficult. She had to get Xena off the side of this mountain before exposure killed her. It would be easier to check for internal injuries once she had her partner out of this gods-be-damned weather.

Looking up she assessed the situation. There was no way she could get Xena off the ledge without help. Internal injuries were the biggest risk, but she had no choice. To leave Xena here and go for help would mean certain death. A thought came to her; Argo. Rising to her feet, Gabrielle, put her index fingers to her lips and blew two sharp whistles. She waited a few moments, and then whistled again. The noise of the winds and torrential rains swallowed her whistle. She had no choice but to go back up the mountain for Argo. She took off her leather skirt and covered Xena's face with it, knowing it was scant protection.


Gabrielle grabbed hold of the rope again and with a strength and determination born of desperation, she climbed quickly to the top, cursing as she disturbed rocks and mud which continued to cascade onto Xena. She remembered where Argo had been and ran screaming her name. A familiar whinny answered her call. She'd never really established a good rapport with Xena's horse, but now all the past animosities had to be forgotten for Xena's sake. She took hold of Argo's halter and pulled the big golden head toward her. Looking straight into those dark liquid brown eyes she saw intelligence reflected back at her. This was her only hope. She had to have this horse's cooperation.

"Argo, Xena's been hurt. She's down there and I can't get her up alone. I need your help girl. Please, Argo, help me help Xena."

The big palomino war horse seemed to understand. Gabrielle entertained the thought that this was wishful thinking, but something told her Argo did understand and for once would obey Gabrielle's commands.

She grabbed Argo's reins and rushed back to the edge of the cliff. The horse could feel her panic and knew something was wrong. Sensing her mistress was in trouble, she stood calmly, waiting.

Stepping first to the edge of the cliff, Gabrielle looked down at her injured companion and then glanced back to the oak tree, where the rope was still tied. Resolutely, she strode over to the tree. As she worked the rope loose from the tree and began tying it to the horse's saddle horn, the bard explained her plan as if the great warhorse understood every word.

The rain was coming down harder now, drenching them in sheets of water. Great! Just what we need, thought Gabrielle, as the water ran into her eyes almost blinding her. She kept up an endless stream of chatter to the horse and it seemed to calm both of them.

Finally, she was ready. "Okay, Argo, I'm going back down and we are going to get Xena." The horse was facing the cliff and Gabrielle knew that backing up to pull them up would be the best course of action.

"Alright, hold steady girl."

Then Gabrielle disappeared over the edge. Again she used the rope to slow her descent yet knowing each motion rained down rocks and dirt on Xena. As soon as her feet touched the ledge she reached for Xena's body. Putting her cheek against Xena's she felt the coolness of the injured woman's skin and knew time was of the essence.

"Xena, I have to tie us together so we can get out of here."

She looped the rope under Xena's back and then pulled her upright against her own chest. Xena groaned. It was a pathetic weak sound that almost broke Gabrielle's heart.

"I'm so sorry, Love." Gabrielle's whispered words were spoken with infinite tenderness.

She worked faster threading the cord around her own back and tied a tight knot as Xena had shown her. Then she tried to stand using the cliff to push against. It seemed to take forever. As she struggled to get the warrior into position, Gabrielle thought, Gods, but Xena is heavy, especially as dead weight. That word, "dead", seemed to galvanize Gabrielle, and using all her strength she pulled them both upright. With Xena's body draped over her, she pulled on the rope. Argo seemed to understand and began backing up.

Slowly, the rope tightened around them and they began to be lifted up. The rope bit into their bodies painfully. Gabrielle used her legs and arms as much as possible to keep Xena from hitting any more of the rocky mountain side. She could feel stone and brush tear at her own skin, but it was of no consequence. She'd give every bit of skin from her back to save Xena from any more pain. She kept calling out encouragement to Argo as they rose with what seemed an interminable slowness to the top. She knew the horse could not hear her but it did not matter. Suddenly, the shear rock was replaced by a gentler slope and she was able to gain some footing. They were at the top.

"That's it girl, okay you can stop." Argo trotted over to her master and nuzzled Xena's face as Gabrielle gently laid her companion down on the soggy ground. Damn, I need to get her to the cave. To Gabrielle's eye the few hundred yards to their destination looked like miles. But Argo seemed to understand Xena's need. The great warhorse stretched out first one foreleg then the other as if bowing and then lowered her hind quarters.

"Good girl, Argo. I promise you, I'll never say one bad thing to you ever again."

Taking Xena under her arms, Gabrielle draped her body over Argo's saddle and the horse rose in one smooth motion. As the rain continued to pound down on the three partners, Argo followed Gabrielle into the mouth of the cave. As soon as they were inside the safety of the cavern, in a reverse process, Argo lowered her precious cargo back down to dry ground. As soon as Gabrielle had Xena lying on their sleeping furs, the seriousness of her injuries now became even more apparent.

Xena's moan was barely audible as Gabrielle tried to move a piece of her blood encrusted hair from her face. Her body was a mass of bruises and gashes and she had many broken bones. Tears fell from her face onto Xena's body as she tended to her. She knew they needed help - immediate help - or the warrior would die. She thought, If I can just get her to the Amazon healer, but knew she couldn't move her or leave her and there was no time. Her tears became heartbreaking sobs.

"Please don't die, Xena" she wailed, her hair falling across the broken woman's body.

"I need you Xena, please don't die. We have so much to do. I love you, Xena. Don't die, please don't die." Her words hung in the air even as her tears continued to fall. Xena's shallow breathing indicated the end was close. Gabrielle's anguish was palpable. And it was heard, but not by the warrior. In desperation, she uttered this short prayer to the Moon Goddess.

"Artemis, please help me."

Without conscious realization, Gabrielle had invoked the "gift of the Chosen". And Artemis answered the call appearing in the cave in a shimmering rain of silver stars. Gabrielle looked up, barely able to see through her tears.

"It's Xena. She's dying."

Artemis studied the two women and nodded. "I know," she said simply.

Gabrielle begged, "Can't you do something, can't you save her?"

The goddess shook her head and the bard let out a mournful wail. The impact of her lament struck Artemis solidly in her heart. She sighed and laid a gentle hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.

"Gabrielle you are my chosen queen. You owe me your allegiance and your loyalty. Why do you persist in trailing after this warrior who slaughtered so many of your sisters?"

Gabrielle was horrified at this news. She knew there was much in Xena's past that might be unpalatable to her, but to hear this, that Xena had murdered her Amazon sisters, was a blow. She reeled, her head spinning. Still, she loved Xena and no matter what demons leapt up from the mists of time, the Xena she knew had changed and Gabrielle would defend her.

"She's not that person anymore. She's defended the Amazons since then and prevented a war with the Centaurs, a war where many would have died."

"Yes, she has done some good deeds since then, but that in no way redeems her for decimating the northern Amazon nation. Her actions against the warlord were what stayed my hand from striking her down."

"Please, Artemis, please save her."

As a goddess, Artemis could project her essence onto persons or places or objects thereby transforming them. This magical ability to enchant, this force, could be used to make mortals see that which was not there, or be blinded to that which was right before their eyes. This power could also enhance the physical sensations of any activity. And the goddess knew how to use this well.

Ignoring the plea, Artemis slowly reached out and seductively caressed Gabrielle's cheek. At the unmistakable contact, a pleasurable and involuntary shiver went through the young woman's body.

"I will not save Xena," The goddess said, clearly emphasizing the word "not".

"But I will ease your pain my sweet Gabrielle. Surrender to me as all Amazon queens have from the beginning." She moved against the younger woman, her warm breath teasing the side of Gabrielle's face.

Artemis's intention was made very clear to Gabrielle as wave after wave of the goddess's seductive power permeated her body. Artemis's glamour surrounded Gabrielle in a pulsating shimmering light as she continued to suggestively touch the Queen. Gabrielle leaned in to the sensual caress almost giving in to the seduction of the Goddess. Then realizing the enormity of what she was doing, she shook herself free.

"No!" Her face shiny with tears, she sadly shook her head, "No, please I can't. I'm sorry. I love Xena."

Artemis withdrew her hand and stepped back, a troubled look on her face.

"Very well, I will never force your surrender. When the time is right, you'll know. I'll return to Olympus to allow you to contemplate the truth of what is. Use what skills you do possess to help your friend and maintain vigil at her bedside until the end. I will return to you then."

With those words, she dissolved into a sparkle of silver dust and stars.

Gabrielle was left alone with Xena.

* * * The Amazon Village * * *

Ephiny left her dwelling and walked across the village compound in a thoughtful manner in the direction of Yakut's hut. For a few days now, she had been having unsettled feelings about her Queen. She knew Gabrielle would always be safe with Xena. The warrior had made it clear how she felt about the Queen and that she would do whatever necessary to protect her. Yet, Ephiny was worried. These feelings were different and they had not subsided. In fact, each day, the feelings had grown stronger. Something was amiss, she was sure of it, but she couldn't isolate what it was.

Ephiny had a strong connection with Gabrielle. At one time, she felt she had been in love with the younger woman. She noted ruefully, that most of the Amazon women fancied they were in love with their Queen. But Ephiny knew her feelings for Gabrielle were much deeper. Given the chance she felt it could have been reciprocated. But now Gabrielle has Xena, she thought.

Yet, the feelings had become more pronounced and she knew she'd even heard her name called. She distinctly heard Gabrielle call to her and wanted to discuss it with the healer.

At that moment a young Amazon rushed up to her and saluted, striking her breast with her fist.

"Regent, you're wanted at the healer's hut." Ephiny turned to the young woman with a question in her eyes.

"I don't know" said the Amazon, "but Yakut said to come quickly."

Ephiny nodded and began striding towards the healer's dwelling. Her sense of foreboding quickened and intensified. At the door to the hut she paused to announce herself. She raised her hand to the draw skins when they flew open. Yakut stood at the entrance, fear in her eyes.

"Yakut?" she said. The question hung in the air.

Yakut motioned Ephiny into the hut.

"The Queen, something is wrong with the Queen." She said the words clearly and without hesitation.

The fear that had begun to fester inside Ephiny erupted. "What is it, Yakut? What have you seen?"

"It's not clear. She's with Xena. But I know something is terribly wrong. We must go to her quickly."

"Yakut, I know it too. Gabrielle called to me."

The healer nodded in understanding.

"We don't even know where they are, how are we going to know where to go or where to find them?" The anguish was clear in Ephiny's words. She felt helpless.

"Ephiny, we must move swiftly." Yakut moved about the hut. She gathered packets of dried herbs as she spoke, putting them into a basket. Gathering several feathers into a bundle, she tied it with a leather strip adding that to the basket as well.

"We must go to the sacred lodge and prepare ourselves. I believe we must call on our Protector."

"What do you mean?" Ephiny watched as the basket grew heavier with the offerings.

"You know that each of us has been given a gift from Artemis. We promised the Goddess upon our naming ceremony into the tribe that the gift would only be used in extreme circumstances. I feel this is one of those times. You, as Regent, may have the most important gift of all - to reach Gabrielle. Come, we must hurry."

They left the healer's hut at a sprint for the Sacred Lodge. The rest of the tribe had begun to gather as word quickly spread that Yakut had summoned the Regent to her hut. There was an audible hum in the air as the Amazons, seeing their Regent and their healer moving with determination and speed towards the Sacred Lodge, realized that something was indeed, amiss.

The Sacred Lodge was only used for naming ceremonies and for the special feasts and holidays celebrating the seasonal cycles of the moon and the sun. To be used now meant something was very wrong.

The tribe followed the two leaders towards the Lodge, a phalanx of warriors already taking up positions outside the doorway.

As they reached the entry, Yakut, leading Ephiny, stopped. She balanced the basket against her chest.

"Regent, you must tell them. And you must call for the council members to join us in the Lodge. This, only the Regent can do. In the Lodge, I will guide them." She looked into Ephiny's eyes, the meaning of their respective roles clear.

Ephiny nodded and turned to the gathered women. She weighed her words carefully; not wanting to alarm, yet knowing that to enter the Sacred Lodge as they were, was already an alarming development. She looked out over the crowd and a sudden quiet reigned.

"Amazons, we have reason to believe our Queen is in trouble. Yakut has seen images in the smoke. And I've had strange premonitions for several days."

Her words brought murmurs and gasps from the Amazons gathered. She held up her right arm to silence them.

"The Queen is with Xena, but we don't know where they might be. You know that each of you was given a gift from Artemis at your naming ceremony. Some of these gifts are stronger and more difficult to bear than others. Some come with a great price to pay. Not all of the gifts are the same. Your council members have been given the more difficult gifts. The Goddess has asked us to use the gifts wisely and carefully and only in dire circumstances. Yakut's vision means we must use these gifts now. We're going into the Sacred Lodge to beg Artemis to help us and to help Queen Gabrielle. I ask the Amazons here to settle your minds and your hearts - to go within yourselves - and focus on our Queen. We're needed. Gabrielle needs us."

There was a roar from the gathered women that sounded like one. Feet stamped; arms were raised; weapons were pounded on the bare earth.

Ephiny raised her arms to the sky and the roar quieted. "Amazons, focus! We have much work to do today."

She turned and entered the lodge with Yakut. The council members emerged from the gathered tribe, one by one, and joined the healer and the regent in the lodge. The skins over the door closed and all views of the women inside were shut away.

* * * SERIOUS MEDICINE * * *

Gabrielle shook herself out of her stupor. It was clear; she was the only one who could help Xena. She needed to focus. This was not the time to fall apart.

She rose and went to their supplies, dragging the saddle pack near Xena. First she would need a fire to keep Xena warm and to prepare the herbs she knew might help.

She went back outside the cave entrance and quickly began gathering small twigs and branches lying about. It struck her as ironic that Xena could have gathered all the wood they had needed without ever getting near that cliff. Of course, even blind, Xena would have wanted to explore. A small smile broke over Gabrielle's lips as she thought of her stubborn warrior's need to control every situation by constantly scanning the area wherever they were. And then as quickly as the happy memory came to her it was replaced with the reality of the present dire situation. She grabbed up as much wood and kindling as she could carry and rushed back inside.

She laid out the smaller twigs first, followed by the bigger pieces as Xena had taught her so many years ago. She then reached into their pack for the flint and dagger. Usually it took her several tries to get a spark, but this time a single flash ignited the twigs and a small blaze was soon dancing in the fire pit.

"Thank you, Artemis," she silently prayed and then another thought struck her, "Thank you Aphrodite."

Speed was of the essence, as Xena's breathing grew even shallower and labored than before. She knelt near her friend. She brushed her lips over Xena's cheek. "Xena, I don't know if you can hear me, but you need to hold on. I am going to prepare some herbs that will make you feel better. Hang on for me sweet heart, just hang on."

She pulled out their cooking pot and went across the cave to the pool of clear water. She dipped into the clean spring water and then returned to her place next to Xena and the fire. She crushed each herb as she tossed it into the pot. While it was steeping she set to work on cleaning the wounds and sewing up the worst gashes. Xena's left shoulder was clearly dislocated and Gabrielle knew how to reset it. She'd done it many times for her. She pulled the arm straight and with a single powerful jerk, the joint popped back into place. Xena moaned as the pain of the maneuver reached into her unconsciousness. "I'm so sorry, love."

When the tea was ready, she managed to lift Xena's head and dribble a tiny bit of the healing concoction into her mouth. The cayenne and garlic would reduce swelling and fight off infection, while the comfrey, calendula and valerian root would knit bones, soothe torn ligaments and give Xena some measure of pain relief. Steadily, she coaxed Xena to take small sips, mindful that the automatic reflex of swallowing could not be rushed or she would choke.

Gabrielle worked steadily for a good candle mark and made some progress in repairing the worst of the visible damage. She brushed her hand gently through Xena's thick black hair. She'd done her best to clean off the worst of the blood and mud. Even filthy, it still had a silky feel. Looking at Xena now, her heart nearly broke with the love she felt for this woman. She knew the worst injuries were inside and they would claim Xena's life if she could not get help and get it soon.

Gabrielle sat back on her heels. Think! The whole time she'd been tending Xena's wounds, her mind had been turning over ways of getting a message to the Amazons. Now, she remembered that earlier when she wanted to find Xena, when she knew without a doubt that Xena was hurt and needed her, she was able to "see", to somehow lift off the ground on the very air currents and "see". Then she recalled again the other powers that Artemis had given her at her coronation. Suddenly, the truth dawned on her. Of course, I had used one of the powers given at my coronation, the eagle's gift. But how did I do it?

Instinctively Gabrielle knew it wasn't enough to simply ask for help. And then she realized she'd invoked the power when she'd claimed it for her own. Only then had she felt as if she had been born up on the wind currents and been able to see for miles. Now, she wondered. After rebuffing the goddess, will she answer me? Still a promise is a promise and Artemis hadn't said anything about forfeiting my gifts. What do I have to lose?

Gabrielle raised her face to the ceiling of the cave. Her clear voice rang off the sides of the beautiful interior.

"Artemis, please, I claim the power of the wolf to call my sister Amazons to me."

There was no response and no change in her immediate surroundings or situation. Then she added "as you promised me, your queen and chosen."

Subtly, Gabrielle's reality began to change, the interior of the cave seemed to dissolve and she "saw" a full moon overhead. Her body began to feel different. She felt lighter and her senses became more acute. She smelled earth, trees and animals. She heard the sounds of small rodents scurrying around. She noted a light breeze ruffling her fur. Fur? I'm not wearing fur. As she gazed down at herself she 'saw' the image of a grey wolf insubstantial and shimmering. By the goddess, this must be it, the power of the wolf.

Acting on instinct, she sent out a single thought.

Ephiny, I need you. Come to me! Somehow she knew it was enough and she felt her spirit return to her body and the cave to wait.

* * * YAKUT AND THE COUNCIL * * *

The Amazon Council took their prescribed place in the circle. In the middle of the circle a fire burned. Yakut stood up and brought her basket to the center. She pulled a packet of herbs and murmuring incantations tossed it into the flames which sputtered sparks. She began to intone a blessing. It grew louder and louder as she walked around the fire. Then, as though in a trance, she stopped and raised her arms parallel to the ground. The council joined hands, feeling a pulsing energy between their entwined palms. They watched Yakut who seemed transfixed.

"Daughters of the Goddess", she began, her voice sounding far away. "You have been summoned to offer your ritual gifts. Do you freely give these gifts?"

"We do!" They responded as one voice.

The air in the lodge felt electrified.

"Then offer your gift and speak it clearly." Yakut called out.

Noalani spoke first. "I offer the gift of speed."

Cynosura, bowing towards the healer, says, "I offer the gift of stealth."

One by one, each member of the council offered their gift and it was noted with a nod by Yakut. As each gift was recited, she threw a packet of herbs into the blaze. The room became hazy. Later, they could not decide among themselves if the haze was due to the smoke or the trance that seemed to have invaded their senses.

Yakut raised her hands, holding a feathered rattle in each. She sang over the flames and the sound of the shaken rattles divided each of her words. She spoke slowly, her words seeming to come from outside of herself.

"I see our Queen. She is bruised but her anguish is not for herself. She weeps for her love. Xena is near death."

Ephiny went to Yakut and knelt on the floor before her.

"Where are they Yakut? Find them!" It was a simple plea.

"My gift is twofold; I can guide others in spirit and I can walk the Land of the Dead, but until Xena crosses over I cannot reach her."
Ephiny became greatly agitated, and pulled urgently at Yakut's arm. "We have to reach her before she crosses over. Where are they, Yakut?"

"You, as Regent, have the gift of wolf, the same as our queen. You can reach the Queen and locate her. Take these herbs and use your gift, Regent."

Ephiny stared at her without comprehension. Yakut stepped towards her and waved the feathers in front of Ephiny's face. She pointed to the fire, beckoning the woman to approach it. As the Regent slowly moved to the fire, Yakut tossed a white packet of herbs into it. A shower of sparks filled the air and then a deep heavily scented smoke engulfed the Regent.

"Lie down next to the blaze, Ephiny! We'll tend your body as your spirit soars to find the Queen. Do not be afraid! You'll be protected by the sacred powers in each of us."

Yakut knelt beside her, placed her hand softly on the Regent's forehead, and began intoning spells as ancient as the fire itself.

"Amma ditamakam, amma" the chant was repeated over and over.

"Go quickly now. You are safe." She uttered the words as she sensed Ephiny leaving her body.

The sensation the Regent experienced was light headedness. She felt slightly dizzy and her body was a heavy boulder that she no longer controlled. She saw herself or a form of herself, rise up out of the prone body on the ground and realized she was in spirit form. She could see the other Amazons in the room, but they could no longer see her. They stood near her body, answering Yakut's chant, and blowing the smoke towards her still body with large feathers. She concentrated on this lighter self, and felt as though she were floating free in the air. She heard Yakut's incantations take on urgency and the words propelled her spirit forward even as her body breathed the smoke.

She was racing through time and space - formless and yet aware of all form. The colors were intense and she could feel the vibration of the swirling energies around her. She felt a magnetic pull in the direction of the Queen as she moved forward with purpose and direction. As her body continued to breathe the smoke, Ephiny's spirit understood what the gift of the wolf meant - it was the primal call of the wild wolf - and her friend was calling her. She saw Gabrielle through the smoke; the Queen's face was framed by the fur of the wolf. She knew she had reached Gabrielle but she did not know where they were or how she got there. She only felt the strong magnetic pull.

In spirit form she approached as she heard the young woman say her name.

"Ephiny!"

She heard her Queen calling to her plaintively. She did not hear words with her ears. She heard words in her mind and in her heart. The Queen's anguish tore at her and she rushed forward to her. She saw the younger woman tending Xena and knew the warrior was dying.

"My Queen, I'm so sorry." She approached the younger woman.

The Queen turned as she felt Ephiny's presence. She was dimly aware that the Regent looked different, but she didn't care how she looked. Help had arrived.

"Ephiny, please, this is no time for formalities. Where are my sisters? Where are the Amazons? Where's Yakut?" She spoke in a rush of words, each punctuated by gasping sobs.

"Oh Gods, Ephiny, Xena needs help. I've asked Artemis for help but she has refused me. Help me, Ephiny. Bring the Amazon healers!" She continued her anguish breaking her friend's heart.

The Amazon placed the back of her hand softly on the young woman's cheek, a gesture that was more comforting to her as the Queen could not feel it. She knew it was hopeless, but she had to go back and get Yakut. When Xena passes over, perhaps Yakut could reach her and bring her back. Yakut had been right, she thought, time was slipping away. She looked at her surroundings and knew, with the wolf link to her friend, she could quickly lead the healer to this ridge.

She turned to Gabrielle and said, "Gabrielle, be strong; I'm going for Yakut. We'll return quickly. Alright?"

Gabrielle began to sob quietly, her tears falling on the still form of the warrior. There was no reply.

With a gentle slip, Ephiny felt her consciousness pull away from the ridge and slide into the same energy field she'd been in earlier. She was moving backwards in time and space at a dizzying speed. Her spirit entered her body. Coughing and sputtering from the dense smoke, she was suddenly back in the Sacred Lodge.

Yakut touched her softly on the back of her head with a questioning look.

The Regent, nodded. "I found her. Xena is far gone. And Gabrielle is inconsolable. We have to hurry. I'm not sure exactly where they are, but I reached her once before. I think I can get you there. Yakut, it may be too late."

The simple plea propelled the healer into action.


Yakut threw a different bundle of herbs on the fire and blessed the plants. As the last bundle seemed to extinguish the flames, she blessed the fire and put yellow colored sand on the four corners of the pit. The fire was put out.

She stood and the women in the circle joined her.

"What should we do now?"
"How'll we get to them?"
"Who will go?"

The questions came from all directions.

Ephiny raised her hand. "Yakut and I will go. All the rest of you must remain here. We need only two to attend to Xena and the Queen. Those of you remaining in the Council will start a new fire and Otere will tend it as the healer has already done."

Yakut interrupted her. "This is the most important time, my sisters. You must use all your powers to send us swiftly to the ridge. But you must also tend our bodies while our spirits fly to the aid of the Queen. Otere will lead you in the incantation of the spells. So, tend our bodies well until we return."

Otere smiled at Yakut and bowed to her Regent. Yakut took her aside, guiding her towards the center of the lodge.

"Otere, you must watch our bodies. If they begin to cool you must?"

"I know what needs to be done." Otere interrupted her partner.

"And burn the special sweet smelling stick from the lands in the east. You'll know it's time for us to return when it burns down. Let that stick guide you too." Her instructions continued as though she could impart all her knowledge in the space of a few short sentences to the other woman.

"Hurry, Yakut" she said. "Your bodies will be safe." she gently touched her friend on the arm, a gesture that said everything in her heart. "Go! Quickly! I'll take care of things here. You've trained me well. I know what to do."

Yakut nodded. There was nothing more to do but trust her knowledge.

"Sisters, let's begin. It's time. " Otere began the ceremony.

The women had already begun preparations. A new fire was started and new herbs were ready for the ritual.

Yakut returned her partner's touch and squeezed her arm. "Be careful Otere."

"I will. I won't let harm come to either of you."

Then she followed Ephiny and Yakut to the newly lit fire. The two women lay down on either side of the fire ring. The council tended the sacred fire as Otere intoned the powerful chants, walking around them in a circle.

This time, the fire burned with a dense smoke, smelling of white sage. Otere lit the special stick from the east, and its scent rose above the other smells. She knew this stick had to be watched as carefully as she monitored the temperature of their bodies.

Within moments of hearing the chants, Yakut and Ephiny moved into spirit. Time and space seemed to slowly merge into one fluid sensation. They were almost moving as one. The soft form of the ridge appeared ahead of them and as they got closer the two forms on the hard packed dirt started to take on a more solid form. As both of them focused on the pair, the images solidified and they saw the Queen touching the warriors face.

"Don't leave me Xena. Don't go." They heard her begging the warrior to stay with her.

Suddenly, the Amazons seemed to have dropped out of the sky. Gabrielle turned and saw them, her eyes red and swollen. Ephiny went straight towards Gabrielle as Yakut knelt to examine the warrior's wounds.

Gabrielle pleaded with the healer. "Please do something. Please help her, Yakut. You have to save her." Her anguish was heart rending.

Yakut continued to examine Xena thinking, how will I tell her? It's hopeless. I cannot help her. She is beyond my ken. She's gone to the Land of the Dead. But she continued her ministrations. Gabrielle sensed something was wrong and screamed.

"Yakut, we're losing her. I can feel it. Please, bring her back."

Ephiny tried to hold Gabrielle's form, but it was futile. She was in spirit and Gabrielle in body. The younger woman seemed to break free of Ephiny's arms and threw herself on Xena.

"Yakut, bring her back. Bring her back." She continued her lament pounding on the warrior's body.

Yakut lowered her head, her face ridden with sorrow, as the Queen broke down with a mournful keening wail.

Ephiny came forward. "Yakut, you can walk in the Land of the Dead. Take the Queen. Bring them both back. You said you couldn't do anything until Xena crossed over. Do it. That's your gift from our Goddess. Use it." Her words rang like a command.

Gabrielle sensed a glimmer of hope and looked up at the healer. Yakut met the Queen's eyes and knew she must try whatever she could.

"I'll try."

Looking directly into the eyes of the Regent, Yakut issued her instructions.

"We're already in spirit, Ephiny. But you must tend Gabrielle's body while we walk together. I want you to say a chant over her form in one continuous sound from head to foot and then again foot to head. This will protect her while we make the journey."

"I understand, Yakut. But what about her body temperature?" She asked.

"We won't be gone too long." was the curt reply.

The healer turned to the young queen.

"Gabrielle? It's time. I'll take you to Xena. Quickly now, lay down next to Xena." Without a moment's hesitation, Gabrielle obeyed.

The young woman's relief was evident even as she heard the sound of the strange words Ephiny spoke over her.

"Dika ta-um malan; Dika ta-um malan."

"This is a very powerful chant, my Queen, but you must slip into spirit with me. Together we'll look for Xena. But you must go with me." Yakut spoke softly but with authority.

The Queen nodded her understanding even as she felt a slight dizziness and a shifting of her perceptions. The ridge disappeared as healer and queen walked in Spirit. The healer was aware of her surroundings in this dimension but the queen was still adjusting to it. Yakut reached for Gabrielle's hand and it seemed to anchor the younger woman.

"Xena was in Spirit before us. We'll follow and try to find her." Yakut said.

"I must find her, Yakut." The plea was simple and yet heartbreaking.

The Healer knew that to walk in the Land of the Dead required preparation, which they had not been able to do. And even with preparation, the spirit walk was dangerous. She was concerned for the queen and more so if they didn't find Xena. She feared that Gabrielle might not want to return with her. She resolved to tread carefully and keep a firm anchor on the Queen. She knew that it was through her that Gabrielle walked the spirit world and she had to bring her back.

They followed several paths, all swirling in mists and fog. They did not see Xena nor did they find the way she came. Gabrielle rushed towards each clearing and called her partner's name. It was futile. Xena did not respond and with each passing moment the queen became more and more agitated. Yakut knew they were at a crossroad and she needed to return with the Queen now or it would be too late.

Taking Gabrielle's hand she turned her. "My Queen, we must return."

"No!" Gabrielle screamed

"Listen to me. We haven't prepared ourselves properly. We must go back. Then we can return better prepared."

"No, Yakut please stay. I have to find her. I can't live without her."

"Gabrielle, we'll return. We haven't found her yet and the mists are growing heavier. We won't find her now. If we prepare ourselves, the mists will be clearer and the way surer."

Gabrielle wanted to stay, but heard the wisdom in the words of the woman who walked the spirit world often. Her eyes pleaded one more time as the Healer refused her with a shake of her head, "no."

She resigned herself to returning to the world of the living without Xena. Right then, she didn't know how she could go on without the warrior. She'd never expressed her feelings to this woman. She'd never told her that she loved her and wanted to live out her life with her. And now it was too late. The emotional turmoil threatened to engulf the younger woman. She allowed the healer to hold her together mentally and emotionally before she too was completely lost.

Yakut took the queen's hand and murmured softly as she guided her back the way they had come. She sensed the queen's precarious emotional balance and knew she had to hurry. The incantations grew louder as they walked through a heavy fog. As they emerged from the fog, they suddenly were on the ridge again and Xena's lifeless form lay before them.

* * * XENA CROSSES OVER * * *

As soon as she had awakened Xena knew she was dead. Her body no longer screamed in pain for one thing, and her eyesight had been restored. When she was last with Gabrielle, she had been completely blind. Though there wasn't much to see beyond swirling mist and the occasional shadowy wraith or outcropping of grey stones. "Really Hades, ya need a new decorator." She remembered hunting for firewood and a clap of thunder right before the blinding pain in her shoulder and head, then nothing, until finding herself in Hades domain.

Meeting neither friend nor foe, Xena wandered without direction. Time was difficult to gauge in the underworld. Candlemarks here might be only a heartbeat whereas in the land of the living it was much more. Occasionally, she sensed something stalking her, heard sounds of slithering or soft footfalls, but nothing had come close enough to be seen.

Now, what was that? She listened intently. There it was again; the distinct sound of her name being called in the distance. Xena turned toward the sound. But as soon as she did, the voices seemed to move and were once again behind her. Xena was certain what she had heard was Gabrielle calling her, but the mists seemed to swallow the sound.

She stood still and listened, allowing all of her senses to reach out into the mists. The underworld was shrouded in an impenetrable fog, so impossibly thick it might as well have been a wall. She cursed, "Centaur dung! Where is she?" Another sound, a low growl captured Xena's attention. Turning quickly, she saw nothing. Then something cold and slimy brushed against her leg. In one smooth motion, she unsheathed her sword pulling it over her right shoulder. Never pausing, she sliced forcefully into the fog. She felt a satisfying thunk as the metal bit into flesh, followed by a shrill cry as the intruder retreated into the gloom.

There! She heard it again. It was Gabrielle calling to her. Much of what she'd encountered down here thus far may not have been real, but that voice was. She had to reach Gabrielle. Xena knew that she was destined to cross the Styx into whatever fate Hades deemed appropriate. However, she'd left her partner without telling her the one truth in Xena's heart: that she loved the beautiful young bard. Xena was determined; she would not rest until she had spoken three words to Gabrielle. And a determined Xena was a force to be reckoned with.

Making a decision about the direction, she began jogging toward her partner's call. Gabrielle's voice sounded desperate and it spurred Xena on. But as she raced toward it, the sound retreated. Sensing the young woman was pulling away, Xena redoubled her efforts and ran faster even as the bard's voice grew fainter and then faded away. Still Xena ran, screaming in her desperation to reach her friend, "Gabrieeeeelleee !" Without warning, her boots made hollow thudding sounds as she stumbled onto the wooden planking of a weathered and decaying pier. Sliding to a halt moments before plunging headlong into the murky grey water sucking at the dock's pilings, she caught herself.

A decrepit boat perhaps 20 feet long and open from bow to stern bumped lazily against the docking. Her head came up as a familiar voice spoke to her out of the gloom. "Well, well, well, if it isn't my good friend, the Warrior Princess come to visit."

Turning slowly and straightening to her full height, Xena crossed her arms over her leather clad chest. She loomed over the ancient ferryman in an attitude of intimidation, one word passing her lips, "Charon."

Waving his gnarled hand at her, he chuckled until his ancient withered shoulders shook. "You don't scare me, Xena." He peered at her. "You looking to cross over my river, Girl?"

"Not Really." she replied with studied nonchalance. "I have some unfinished business to take care of."

"Most of the dead do. You're no different. Go ahead and get on board."

Reaching into her cleavage she pulled out a soft leather pouch and upended it pointedly. "I seem to be a little short of dinars just now." She smiled at him while tucking the pouch away.

"Hey, you know me. I'm a generous guy. I'll take you across now and you can pay me later. I've got a few bad debts need collecting. Be right up your alley."

Xena glanced over her shoulder, thinking she might be able to find her way back to Gabrielle. "Hmmm, now that's an offer hard to pass up. How about I go get my gear and meet ya back here in oh, say a couple of candle marks?"

"Don't be too long, Xena. It'll be like old times. The Destroyer of Nations used to send plenty of business my way. Heh, heh, heh?" his laughter at his own joke broke off into a fit of coughing.

Xena rolled her eyes. "You ought to see a healer about that cough." She said as she backed off the dock. Soon hidden by the swirling fog, she resumed her search for the way back.

As she walked, Xena processed all the information she had. She was dead and in the underworld. She had heard Gabrielle call her. Yes, the dead could hear the living, but this was closer; not as ethereal as thoughts crossing between the worlds. No Gabrielle had been here. How could that be possible? Was she dead too? NO! She felt certain she would know if Gabrielle had died. Something wasn't right.

The mists twisted around Xena's legs creating an illusion of disembodiment. But now after having traversed this forbidding terrain for what seemed like ages, she could make out ghostly images, landmarks, boulders and dead gnarled trees and shrubs.

Spotting an outcropping of boulders up ahead she made her way over to them. It looked familiar. But then, everything looked familiar in this gods be damned place. She needed to think. She needed a plan. She needed Gabrielle. Climbing a few feet up into the tumble of stone hoping to get a better view, she soon realized that with such poor visibility, a better view was a relative term. With a heavy sigh, Xena sat down on a flat piece of slate to figure out her next move. Her feet planted firmly on the rocks below, she rested her forearms on her knees, leaving her hands dangling loose between her legs. From this position she stared out into the colorless mist, thinking. She had a goal. No matter what else happened, she had to find a way to get to Gabrielle. Never having been one for prayer, Xena nevertheless uttered these words to the one person in her life she'd come to love, "Some how, some way; I will find you, my bard."

* * * APHRODITE AND ARTEMIS - JUST GIRL TALK * * *

The theme of Artemis's suite on Olympus was defined by the exotic animal skins, used as rugs and wall hangings. The white marble walls streaked with silver and golden veins glowed in the brilliant sunlight shining in shafts through the clerestory windows. Friezes of antelope, deer and elk danced across the upper reaches of the walls. A silver bow and a quiver of arrows hung on the wall over a mahogany mantel above the immense fireplace. Flames from the roaring fire cast shadows against the white walls lending the many magnificent animal pelts an ethereal caste.


Artemis paced her chambers in a highly agitated state oblivious to its beauty. She was torn. Her Queen had called on her. On the one hand she wanted to give her Chosen anything that she'd asked. On the other, she could never forgive Xena for the destruction of the northern Amazons. No, she would not save Xena! That crime was unforgivable.

As Artemis pondered this dilemma a burst of pink sparkles announced the arrival of the love goddess Aphrodite "Wow Sis, you are being such a party poop."

Artemis sighed and looked at her frivolous sister who stood with a hand on her hip in see through pink lingerie wearing her perpetual smile. Artemis knew Aphrodite had never had a serious thought in her empty head.

In spite of this, Artemis smiled to herself. It was impossible to be mad at Dite. All the gods on Olympus felt the same about her. They had a soft place in their hearts for Aphrodite who was like an innocent harmless child. They tolerated her misfired spells and her simple "Love is the Answer" philosophy. She was sweet, but totally impractical.

"Aphrodite, you wouldn't understand."

For a change, Dite answered her sister with a depth that belied everyone's impression of her. "Oh sure; Air head Aphrodite can't understand a serious situation. You're wrong, Sis. I totally get it. You are letting your anger at Xena prevent you from giving your Chosen her heart's desire. That's not difficult to understand."


"I can't ignore what Xena has done. She murdered my Queen, Cyanne."

"Well, not to split hairs or anything, Sis, since I am sooo not into the whole violence thingie, but that fight with Cyanne - it was a fair fight wasn't it?"

The grudging response came, "Yes, but Cyanne was the greatest of all my queens."

"Arte, she's crossed over. You can see her anytime you want. You need to think about your current queen. Gabby leads your babes now. Why can't you give her what she wants? She loves her warrior princess."

"That's all that matters to you, Aphrodite. Love is always your answer."

"What's your point, Sis? They love each other. Everybody like totally knows it?everybody except them. Your Queen would do anything to save Xena. Now, that's love."

"Well, not anything!" Artemis responded smugly.

"What's that supposed to mean, Sis?"

"You know I have a ritual with my Queens, don't you?"

"I know you seduce your Queens if that's what you mean! But I don't think they have much choice in your little ritual."

"I have never forced myself on any of them!" She stated emphatically.

"Get real, Arte. You dazzle them with your godly enchantment and they fall into your arms. You call that a choice?"

Folding her arms across her chest, Artemis ignored the implication.

Getting no response, Aphrodite sighed and then forged on, "Okay, what did the bardly one do?"

"She didn't fall under my spell. Oh, she was close. Very close." Artemis smiled broadly as she said this, the memory of the seduction seared in her mind. Then her face fell. "But she rejected me. She said she loved Xena." Artemis knew this admission might diminish her in her sister's eyes.

Instead, she was bewildered by Aphrodite's reply. "Well duh!"

"What?"

"That Bard is as pure as your ermine pelts up there on the wall. Her heart belongs to Xena. She wouldn't betray that. The love of her life is dying and she's dying with her. She won't be much of a queen without her warrior. You have to do something."

Artemis knew when she was defeated. "The truth is I would give her anything else in my power."

Dite's face lit up as she saw her opening. "Anything else, Sis?"

Artemis was distracted by her concerns for her people and was sorely tired of this conversation. She snapped, "That's what I just said, isn't it?"

"Well then, I know just the thing."

Artemis raised one eyebrow in question.

"Let them have one night together before they are separated forever."

Shaking her head resolutely, Artemis said, "I am not reviving Xena."

"You don't have to. Take the Gabster to Xena in the spirit world."

Artemis paused, thinking over her sister's proposal. Of course, she could never allow Gabrielle into close proximity to Xena. Gabrielle would never succumb to Artemis's lure then. No, but just maybe she could convince Gabrielle that she would be taken to Xena once she surrendered to her. Artemis was certain that once Gabrielle slept with her, it would be enough to bind Gabrielle to the goddess forever. She smiled broadly at her sister, the outline of her plan formed in her mind. "Yes, that just might work."

Confident that her job here was done, Aphrodite flashed a dazzling smile at her sister, snapped her fingers and winked out in a brilliant shower of pink star dust.

Once alone, Artemis began putting the finishing touches on her plan. First she needed to visit her Uncle Hades and make sure Xena was out of the picture. Nothing would be worse than accidentally running into the stubborn warrior in the spirit world.


* * * A FAVOR FROM UNCLE HADES * * *

Hades seldom spent much time in his chambers. He was a busy god; what with wars, bandits and poor nutrition, these were hard times for humans and they succumbed to death frequently. He stood now in the midst of a recent robbery. The victims, a small merchant caravan, were all lying at his feet. Several of the bandits also were among the fallen and he smiled ruefully at their fate. He sighed as he noted two children, a five year old girl and her three year old brother among the dead. These he attended to himself. He scooped them both up in his arms and smiled at them as they became aware of their surroundings. He always did his best to comfort the young. These two were dazed and fearful after the horrible death they'd just endured. As his men were leading the fallen to their new homes, either the Elysian Fields for the moral and just or Tartarus for the unredeemed, Hades spoke tenderly to the children easing their fears, "How would you like a nice ride in my shiny chariot?"

The little boy's brown eyes lit up at the offer, but he looked to his sister for permission to have this wonderful adventure. The young girl wasn't so sure but she wasn't about to desert her brother. She shook her blonde head slowly as she said, "Mama will be worried."

For a god whose primary function was death and judgment, Hades had a way about him. He could instill calm, trust and love with a look. He smiled at the children in his arms. "What are your names, little one?"

The cautious young girl looked into Hades golden eyes and was immediately more at peace. "I'm Galena and this is my brother, Linus."

Hades looked over the field and saw their mother lying so peacefully in the tall grass she might have been asleep, but for the deep gash in her throat. He knew at once she had been destined for the Elysian Fields. "Well, then Galena, it's not a problem. Your Mama told me to bring you both to her. Did you know you have a new home waiting for you? You each have your own room and new clothes and your mama is there now waiting with your dinner."

This seemed to do the trick. Galena beamed at this revelation and Linus reached out in the direction of Hades chariot. He chuckled as he carried his small burdens in that direction. In a flash of silvery light, Artemis fell in to step with Hades. With a nod of his head, Hades said, "Good afternoon Artemis."

"Uncle Hades."

At this, young Galena twisted in Hades arms and peered steadily at the goddess. "Are you the goddess, Artemis?" she asked in wide eyed wonder.


Artemis barely acknowledged the child but answered, "Yes." Her attention was on her uncle and the request she'd come to make.

Galena was undeterred by the abrupt answer and chattered on. "Oh, goody; I'm going to be an Amazon when I grow up. You are my favoritest goddess. I am going to be your best warrior."

Now she had the goddess's full attention. She glanced at her uncle who imperceptibly shook his head. This child would not grow up and it pulled at her heart. "Where are you taking them?" She couldn't imagine a scenario where children would be sent to Tartarus, but still.

"To Elysia; Galena and Linus's mother awaits them there."

"Ah."

Galena was not going to be ignored by these adults. This was her chance to plead her case for admittance into the Amazons like her own Aunt Phoebe. "I don't want to go to 'Lusy-ea. I fought the bad man. I bit him on the leg? and he jumped up and down." She laughed at the memory that had momentarily seemed funny. But then her small features crumbled. "B-b-but then he hit me and killed my papa and mama ?" she put her face to Hades' shoulder and her voice trailed off into muffled sobs.

Artemis was touched by this child, by both her courage and her determination. She made a decision. "Galena, you go with Uncle Hades now to your mother and when your time comes to return, I promise you, you will be an Amazon."

Immediately the tears stopped. Galena regarded Artemis earnestly and nodded her head. "Okay."

Hades handed the two into his chariot. He turned to his niece and said, "That was nice, Artemis. Thank you. Now, what brings you out here?"

"I came to ask a favor, Uncle."

"I'm sure I can accommodate you. What is it you need?"

"It's Xena, Uncle. She has died."

"I didn't even know she'd passed over. And I can hardly believe you'd want her back? She's an enemy of yours is she not?"

"She died less than a candle mark ago. And I do not want her back," she ground out slowly through gritted teeth. "She won't cross the Styx and she's causing unbearable grief for my queen, Gabrielle." She was hoping he wouldn't notice the prevarication. Gabrielle would have grieved regardless.

Fortunately, Hades was distracted by the two children who were now trying to get the chariot to move. "I'll have a word with her, Artemis. Now I better go." He smiled at his niece, jumped up into the sleek gold and black vehicle and gave the command. Instantly, the chariot rose into the air and disappeared in a flash of golden light.

"Thank you, Uncle." Artemis said into thin air. That was one less problem to worry about. One thing about Hades, he was a god of his word. She smiled contentedly, evaporating in a haze of silver sparkles.

* * * XENA AND HADES DISCUSS HER OPTIONS * * *

Looking around, Xena assessed the situation. The jumble of boulders on which she rested seemed completely familiar. The astral world was circular in nature as if it bended back in upon itself. Pondering her predicament, she again ticked off what she knew to be true: that she was in Hades' underworld was a given. She had died, although she had little recall of the actual event. She had heard Gabrielle calling to her; not from the physical plane but here in the underworld. But she herself had not completely crossed over. She felt certain that as long as she avoided the river Styx there was the chance of finding her way back to Gabrielle. Seeing and communicating with the young woman was the force driving Xena now and was all that kept her going in the endlessly oppressive astral world.

She smiled now at the memories of her young friend. Acknowledging how much Gabrielle had grown as she had gained skills and confidence, Xena sighed. Most people never realized the strength of the young woman's determination. They saw only the chatty naïve country girl with the endearing sunny disposition. But Gabrielle could be more determined and focused than Sisyphus the greedy king who was doomed to push a stone endlessly uphill only to have it roll down again. The difference between them was that Gabrielle's soft heart, generous nature and steel resolve would allow her to succeed.

The stoic warrior realized that her friendship with the beautiful young bard had grown and changed also, evolving into love, a love so deep and pervasive that Xena found the idea of any existence without Gabrielle repugnant. That she had died before voicing this realization to Gabrielle caused Xena immense emotional pain. Allowing anyone a place of value in a warrior's heart was considered the worst of weaknesses because it left that warrior vulnerable to outside attack through the loved one.

Smiling, she ruminated over their travels together. Night after night on the road together, they had developed a pattern and a rhythm in which they moved in seamless harmony, each one attending to the details of their camp which fitted her specialized skills. While Xena hunted or fished, supplying fresh meat for their meal, Gabrielle filled water bottles, gathered edible plants and laid out bedrolls. At that thought, Xena's smile widened into a grin that reached her eyes and warmed her heart. Over the months, Gabrielle's bedroll had migrated nearer the warrior until now they lay side by side each night. Oftentimes she'd fallen asleep with Gabrielle's hand in hers. So often she had watched the bard sleep wanting to reach out and trace the lines of Gabrielle's face with her finger tips, to draw the young woman to her, revel in the closeness of the bard's supple body pressed close to hers and feel the softness of Gabrielle's skin, smell her hair, taste her lips, lick at the pulse point, touch her? Oh Hades' balls; Get a grip, warrior! She cursed herself as she attempted to control breathing that had become ragged with unfulfilled desire. She found herself completely aroused by the errant thoughts. Sighing and closing her eyes, she allowed herself to wallow in the pain and emptiness she now felt. Her heart clinched, an insatiable longing filling her chest and her breath caught on a sob as she realized the depth of her love for her beautiful blonde companion. Hanging her head, she choked out her misery as tears burned her throat.

Finally, sucking in a deep breath she shook herself free of the self pity. This wasn't getting her anywhere. She needed to find a way to get back to Gabrielle. If she didn't proclaim her love to the young woman, Xena knew she'd never be at peace.

She needed to focus on the situation at hand. She'd been by this jumble of rock before. So, she'd walked in a circle. Looking around, she saw a grey canopy of dense clouds above her, behind her was the River Styx and Charon and to each side more of the endless billowing grey fog, although now she could make out the twisted forms of lifeless blackened trees. The good news was, the longer she was down here, the more her senses adapted to the environment so that she could identify the landmarks.

She came to a decision and stood up. Stepping down from the boulders she spotted several smaller stones. These she piled one on top the other to mark this particular outcropping. At least now she would know for sure if she was traveling in circles. Then she struck out in the opposite direction from the river.

As she moved through the mists, she noted the low growing shrubs that brushed her boot tops. Interestingly, they weren't completely without color, but rather a washed out grey-green. Huge stones stood like sentinels in the hard packed ground. A few hardy parched grasses eked out an existence in the hard pan and an eerie wind rasped through their spindly stalks. To say this place was uninviting was a gross understatement. Probably, Hades subtle way of encouraging the newly dead to move on and cross over into their fate. The very air was cold and clammy. The damp seemed to permeate her etheric body right down to her bones. "Well," she ruminated, "I'll be warm soon enough. I'm sure Hades has me slated for a long stay in Tartarus."

No sooner had these thoughts flashed through her mind, than a shower of gold light and black dust filled the air, and the god of the underworld stood smiling before her. Arms crossed at his chest, a bemused expression on his face he addressed her, "Xena."

"Hades" she returned his greeting. Standing nonchalantly, she gave every impression of being in control.

Staring each other down, they each refused to respond further. Two could play this game. Neither one wished to be perceived as weaker than the other. Finally, Xena broke the stalemate and spoke. Spreading her arms wide, she said, "Love what you've done with the place."

"Just a bit of enticement for reluctant souls. There is nothing for you here, Xena. It's time to cross over."

"Ah yes, I am sure I'll find accommodations to my liking in the warm, sunny land of Tartarus." She smiled ruefully.

"Xena, you know how it works. You only get what you've earned in life." He chuckled and continued, "And it's not like you won't know many of the other inhabitants. Come along Xena. I've spoken with Charon. Your fare is paid."

"I'm honored Hades, I truly am. But I've got unfinished business above."

"With your Gabrielle? Don't worry about her, Xena. Artemis will comfort your friend. In fact, I am sure she's seeing to her grief even now."

That got Xena's attention. She had never trusted the gods, especially the so called patrons of chosen peoples or persons. The gods had proved their treachery on too many occasions to count. Still she knew Hades words were true. With her senses in a heightened state, Xena could hear her beloved's cries of grief and pain. She became aware of Gabrielle pleading with someone, someone powerful; Artemis. It tore at Xena's heart when she realized that Gabrielle was begging, offering any sacrifice, willingly giving to the goddess all that she had and was; and all for Xena. It was too much. If Gabrielle was willing to sacrifice everything, Xena could do no less than tell Gabrielle what she had come to mean to her. She deserved that much.

Pulling herself out of the vision, Xena said, "I'm sure you'll understand if I want to reassure Gabrielle myself." She waited a beat. "It's not like you're offering me such a sweet deal down here."

The wheels turned in Hades' mind. He'd promised Artemis he'd take care of this situation. Perhaps he could barter with Xena. After all, taking the woman by force across the river could get expensive in manpower. Even though the outcome was inevitable, he was reluctant to spend the time and resources. He sighed like a used chariot salesman scamming a client.

"You're killing me here, Xena. Alright, I can see your point. And I'm nothing if not fair." He flashed her a winning grin. "And on occasion even merciful."

Xena snorted at this revelation. Her distain for the gods was well known.

But Hades was undeterred and forged on, "Now hear me out Xena. As you and I both know, based on your life as a warlord, you deserve an eternity in Tartarus." Waving his arm as though Xena had sought to interrupt, he continued. "But, your time with young Gabrielle has mellowed you and I admit you have some good to your credit. She of course, is destined for the Elysian Fields. So, here is what I propose. You cross the Styx now and go into Tartarus, and when Gabrielle crosses over at the end of her life, I will release you into the Fields to be with her. Now, I can't be fairer than that."

Xena feigned thinking over his offer. In truth it was more generous and hopeful than she had any right to expect. And she was tempted. At that very moment though, Gabrielle's thoughts came bleeding through her consciousness and she clearly heard her beloved saying, "?Yes, whatever you want, I will do. Just save Xena ?" Galvanized by the depth of Gabrielle's devotion; Xena stood up taller, the resolve clearly written on her face.

"That's quite an offer Hades and as you point out more than I deserve. But what about Gabrielle? Isn't it less than she deserves; to go through life thinking that I didn't care, didn't love her as much as she loves me."

Hades was becoming exasperated with this conversation; still he tried one last time, "I can tell her or Artemis?"

"Artemis," Xena snorted in disgust, "Artemis has her own agenda, I think."

"Xena, this is getting tiresome. I'm a busy god. Now are you going to get on the damn ferry?"

Shaking her head side to side, she responded, "I don't think so."

"Don't make me force you."

"You and what army?" She looked at him with distain. A feral grin spread across her lips. Oh gods, but she did love a good fight.

Hades tried one last time. This was not how it was supposed to go. "Don't make me kill you down here, Xena. If you die on my turf, you lose any chance at ever reuniting with your soul mate. Your life essence will be snuffed out."

In answer, Xena drew her sword; the reassuring sound of metal being pulled from the leather sheath was music to her ears.

Hades shook his head and sighed, "Very well."

Snapping his fingers twelve of Hades elite guard materialized in front of Xena. Dressed in gleaming black armor and helmets that covered not just their heads but also their faces, they advanced toward her.

"Your life essence will be snuffed out." Hades' words reverberated through her head. The possibility that all she'd been, all her dreams, memories, experiences, family and friends would be gone without a trace, not just from this lifetime, but for all lifetimes made the stakes great indeed. Like most people, Xena held out the belief and hope that even after death she'd still exist. That she could lose it all would strike terror into the hearts of most people. But all Xena's life she had known only one way to live, fight or love and that was all out, nothing held back. Even though she was looking at death, complete annihilation, she felt a thrill run through her body. It was strange that in death she should feel so alive.

As all these thoughts poured through her mind, her composure never wavered. Steel blues eyes drained even the little color they'd held, as she prepared to do battle. Body, mind and spirit were of one accord; she was ready. A cruel smile that never reached her eyes stretched her lips and bared her teeth.

Backing away into a fighting stance, Xena twirled her sword. A loud swishing sound followed the blade's path as she brought it over her head and back and forth in front of her in endless figure eights.
"Hello boys; let's see what ya got."

Three of them charged her shrieking out their war cry as they attacked and the battle was joined.

"Yiyiyiyiyi" rang through the misty underworld as she flipped over these three, landing with a thud on booted feet spread wide apart. Before they could react, she spun quickly around bringing her sword in an arc from over her head sweeping down low in front; she took all three behind the knees. Screaming in pain, they fell uselessly to the hard ground. It was one of the few vulnerable places on their armor clad bodies. The hinge at the back of their legs allowed her blade to bite deep. With the first three down, she spun to meet the next wave.

This foursome was wary after seeing their comrades dispatched so easily. In an attempt to surround her, they spread out. Glancing quickly from side to side, Xena assessed the situation. She was a master at the waiting game. Her opponents generally lost patience first, as happened here. They charged, bellowing like bulls in season. Smiling, apparently undisturbed, she stood her ground as the four armor clad soldiers rapidly advanced on her.

At the last possible moment when they were about to crash full into her, she launched herself straight up in the air, tucked into a ball and spun in three revolutions, landing safely some 10 feet beyond the group, which now lay in a heap on the ground, having collided with such force it sounded a clap of thunder.

"Hey boys," she taunted them, "No laying around on the job. Your boss is watching."

Rapidly, two of the four regained their feet and began to advance on her again. Feeling just a bit unsure, they cast covert glances at each other.

Xena couldn't resist, "Fellas, I'm over here. Look at me, not each other." Her smile widened but still never reached her eyes.

Swords clutched tightly in their hands, they engaged her. The sounds of steel clashing against steel reverberated through the misty underworld, accompanied by the grunts from the attacking soldiers.

For Xena, this was child's play. Fighting against only two adversaries, no matter how skilled with a sword, barely even winded her. Ares had trained her himself and she knew every trick in the book and some she'd made up herself. Each slice, lunge or parry was more natural to her than breathing. Every strike, she blocked and countered. The secret to a successful offense was a determined defense. Always waiting, always observing and finally capitalizing on her opponent's momentary mental lapse or even better his misplaced egotistical belief that he was better at this game than she.

And always it came as it did now. Driving her backward, they again glanced at each other alerting her of their next move. Sidestepping the first soldier as he lunged past her, she brought her sword tip up and under the face shield of the second, taking him in the throat. Dropping to his knees crimson gushing through his gloved fingers, a strangled gurgling was the only sound as he tried to speak. He appeared momentarily confused before falling face down against the hard scrabble soil.

The first soldier, unaware that his comrade had fallen, stopped his forward momentum, spun around and right into Xena's blade as it caught him in the neck between shoulder and head. His death was a silent one. It was so swift, that only his body hitting the ground with a thud marked his passing.

Pulling her sword free of the dead man, she faced the rest of Hades' elite. Truth be told, they looked less than elite at this moment. Still with Hades watching they could do no less than continue the fight. The entire time she'd battled these two, she'd been well aware of the location of the others. Now another group of four charged her. Grabbing two by their gauntlet covered arms, she kicked out between them with both feet splayed wide and slammed the other two squarely in their respective heads. Expelling a huge gasp of air, they went down hard as if they had met a wall. No sooner had her booted feet hit the ground, when she swung her arms forward, slamming the two she held into each other with such thunderous force it cracked their face plates in half. As soon as she released her hold on them they fell at her feet. Xena favored Hades with a grin as she turned to face the last of them.

These three were uncertain and looked to Hades for guidance. Merely shaking his head, Hades said, "Xena, what am I going to do with you?"

And with that a brilliant blue fireball materialized in his right hand. He launched the glowing ball straight at her face.

Quicker than a snake striking, Xena grabbed her chakram from her hip. As the fiery sphere streaked toward her, she brought the ancient immortal weapon up in front of her using it as a shield to deflect the deadly beam back at Hades and his remaining minions. Upon contact with the chakram, the luminous blue orb shattered with a resounding crash that shook the underworld. Hundreds of shards of fiery death sped back the way they had come. Rocks near Hades exploded and the three remaining soldiers near him vaporized before Xena's eyes. Hades, himself, lay stunned by one of the small pieces that had clipped his head. A shower of dust, debris and utter chaos confronted Xena and she did the only sensible thing under the circumstances; she ran. For once, she thanked Hades for the interminable fog that soon swallowed up any trace of her.

Dazed, Hades sat up and eyed the destruction. Holding his head gingerly in his hands, he muttered, "Xena, you can't get away. There is no place to go. Eventually, you will cross the Styx and accept your fate. And I have more important things to do than play hide and seek with you." With a snap of his fingers, he and all of his fallen soldiers dematerialized in a hail of golden light and black dust.

Running full out until her lungs burned with the effort, Xena found herself back at the small mound of stones she'd used to mark her trail. Exhausted from the fight, winded from her retreat and sick at heart by her inability to reach Gabrielle; Xena slid down the rocky face of a huge boulder coming to rest on the cold hard ground. Sighing deeply, she again spoke to Gabrielle, praying somehow her partner would know the truth of her words, "I love you my sweet bard. I will not rest until you hear it from my own lips."

The whispered prayer seemed to tear a small opening into eternity allowing Xena to feel some of Gabrielle's turmoil and distress. One after another in rapid succession raw painful emotions assailed Xena. With the speed of lightening bolts streaking across a stormy sky, the vivid feelings pounded into her heart. Overwhelming anger, grief, loss, helplessness, agonizing choices stabbed deep into the warrior's psyche. It was in the realization that she was herself helpless to reach Gabrielle in her distress, that the warrior finally knew defeat.

Then, hanging her head in silent grief; large wet tears formed at the corners of her eyes and slowly trailed down her cheeks. The only sound in Hades' underworld was the plop, plop, plop of Xena's tears as they rolled from her chin onto her leather battle skirt.


Continued in Section 2