* * * ARTEMIS AND GABRIELLE - THE QUEEN'S SACRIFICE * * *

The two Amazons stood around Xena's body. Their queen sat next to her fallen warrior, stroking her battered cheek. Grief was the only thing left for her. With a slight nod of her head Ephiny motioned Yakut away from the tableau before them so they could discuss what to do next.

They had moved no more than a few feet, when there was a brilliant flash of sparkling silver light and Artemis solidified before them. They dropped to their knees with heads bowed low before the goddess. Gabrielle was oblivious to the goddess's arrival. She now only had eyes for her lost love.

Artemis spoke to her two supplicating subjects. "You will be sent back to the village. Prepare for the return of your queen and her fallen champion. I'll see they arrive within three days time."

Ephiny spared a glance at Yakut, the question evident in her eyes. Prepare for what? A funeral? But they did not dare question their goddess. They spoke in unison, "Yes, Artemis." As the goddess turned away from them she waved her right arm over them and the two Amazons dematerialized.

Standing over her chosen, Artemis felt her own heart ache for the young woman so inconsolable in her grief. Gabrielle's pleading eyes focused on the goddess. "Artemis, I am begging for your help."

Artemis studied the scene before her and nodded. "There may be a way to grant your wish."

"Anything, just tell me what - and how." The unexpected offer stunned Gabrielle.

"It may mean a big sacrifice on your part Gabrielle. You know you have never sacrificed yourself to me. And all my Chosen Queens have done that."

"What do you want, Artemis? Sacrifice what? I have acknowledged you as the goddess and our protector. Tell me what you want and I will do it." Her eyes were swollen with pain and tears.

"Gabrielle, you can walk in the spirit world - My world."

"But I did that. I walked the spirit world with Yakut and I couldn't find her." She wailed.

"I know that my dearest one. To have your fondest wish, you must walk in the spirit world; but not with Yakut. You must walk with me. And there, you must sacrifice yourself to me." Artemis stroked her arm and gently touched her cheek, wiping away her tears, as she spoke.

Gabrielle stared back with a questioning look on her face. "What are you asking of me?"

"I will take you to the spirit world where your warrior is, Gabrielle. But first you must surrender yourself to me completely as all my Queens have done."

The words Artemis used were calculated to make Gabrielle believe she was to be reunited with Xena. But nothing could have been further from the truth. She needed Gabrielle's acquiescence. "Will you give yourself to me, completely… all of yourself for your warrior?" She softly touched the face of the Queen with her fingertips, her eyes growing hazy but never wavering.

Gabrielle stopped weeping. She suddenly understood the monumental nature of Artemis's request. The goddess wanted her. In her mind, Gabrielle felt she was pledged to Xena. It was true; she and Xena had never professed their love. But she knew there was a chance that might change. And, she didn't know how Xena would react if she found out she had given herself in that way to the goddess.

She decided to worry about that later. "Yes, whatever you want, Artemis, I'll do. Just help me."

"Yes, Gabrielle, I will help you." The goddess noted that mortals seldom spoke with the extreme clarity of thought needed when bartering with a god. Ambiguous words left promises open to interpretation. She had counted on that. And she believed that after bedding her chosen, Gabrielle's love and loyalty would be hers and hers alone. Xena would never be missed.

"Lie down here Gabrielle, next to your warrior." The young woman immediately complied. As her shoulder touched the warrior's, she noted that Xena's skin had cooled considerably since she and Yakut had returned from the spirit world. Taking Xena's hand in hers, Gabrielle laced their fingers together. Whatever happened now, she needed to feel this connection to Xena.

Frowning at Gabrielle's actions, the goddess chose to ignore the fact that the two were in actual bodily contact. After all Xena, no longer inhabited her body.

"Close your eyes now and rest my daughter. I will take care of everything." With a wave of her hand a shimmering silver mist filled the air and covered the prone couple. The vapor would serve two purposes, to provide a veil of protection to Gabrielle's physical body while in the spirit world and it would put the young queen into a deep trance. Gabrielle struggled to stay alert, but the mist filled her nose and mouth drawing her into a heavy slumber.

In a clear voice that brooked no argument, Artemis called out, "Gabrielle, come to me. Your goddess calls you, come to me now."

An etheric image of the sleeping bard rose straight out of Gabrielle's body and stood silently before the goddess. The goddess waved her arm and the image began to shimmer in waves and to solidify and become more substantial with each passing moment until Gabrielle stood fully aware before her goddess.

"Come, Gabrielle, come to me. Dance the dance of life with me." Artemis smiled and opened her arms in welcome. The radiance of the goddess flowed outwards like a magnetized stream of molten energy waves.

Gabrielle hesitated slightly but felt the irresistible pull of the goddess' power and moved slowly towards her, stepping into her embrace. Suddenly, she was lifted up in the same silvery shimmer that had previously announced Artemis presence. Gabrielle felt light, like air, and knew they were moving in time and space. Yet, she could still feel the Goddesses arms tightly around her.

"Ar te mis!" She groaned, dragging out the name into three separate words, as the initial contact with wave upon wave of the goddess's seductive power enveloped and permeated her.

"Yes, Gabrielle, it's alright, my beautiful one. Just relax and let yourself go. I've got you."

The goddess' warm breath was like a searing heat against the side of her face. She couldn't stop herself and moved into the feelings, pushing her body against the Protector her body involuntarily begging for more.

"What's happening to me?" She spoke as though to herself.

"Don't you like what's happening to you, my Queen?" The goddess gently taunted her.

"Don't you like it when I touch you like this?" She brushed her hand across the younger woman's breast and felt her shudder.

"I know you like this Gabrielle. Tell me you do!" She whispered into her neck.

"I do." She moaned at the touch. "No, I don't. I don't. Uuuuhhhh!" Her body warred with her heart as the goddess cupped her breast harder.

"Would you like me to stop, little one?"

"Noooo!" She groaned again. "Yes! No! Artemis, I can't. I can't do this. We have to stop. You have to stop." However, she made no effort to disentangle herself. In fact, she gave in more willingly to the feelings.

She felt the goddess's touch everywhere and yet in no specific place. Her entire being was alive with an indescribable pleasure that coursed through her body. She looked up into Artemis's eyes; their ancient depths called to her, demanding her complete surrender.

"Gabrielle, let me show you how your goddess loves her Queens." She pressed her body fully against the smaller woman who could no longer resist the seduction.

Inside, Gabrielle was in turmoil. Her body and her consciousness were owned at that moment by Artemis. She had no control and in truth wanted none. Still she was able to hold one independent thought throughout the onslaught of sensation and pleasure. Xena!

I do this for you, Xena… I will surrender my body completely for you… I love you more than life; for you are my life. I will do anything to save you. Anything. Even give myself to Artemis. Oh gods, I've already given myself to her.

As Xena's name seared itself into her heart and into her soul, Artemis's lips descended on hers. She tasted a sweet nectar, then warmth and a pleasurable tingling engulfed her. She did not want to respond but her lips seemed to open by themselves to receive the fiery kiss.

"Uuuuuhhhh" the primal sound came up from the depths of her being in response to the building passion she felt. She had never been kissed by a god before and the heat of it raged through her. Her body responded and she pressed herself against the goddess as her breasts and her body screamed for Artemis's touch.

"Ar te mis, touch me, please." The three worded name groaned out of her.

She pleaded with the goddess again, as she continued to press her full body against her,

"Please, oh please touch me."

Artemis smiled then feeling the woman's passion engulf her thought, Yesss! She had won. The Queen was hers.

She stood back looking at her Chosen. "Come. I will touch you like you've never been touched before little one." She barely brushed Gabrielle's shoulders and the bard's clothes vaporized. She stood gloriously naked before the goddess who smiled appreciatively at the sight.

"You are beautiful, Gabrielle. A woman like you is made to be loved. Let me show you how." She kissed her again harder this time.

"Kiss me, touch me - touch me everywhere." The bard felt no modesty nor did she attempt to cover herself. She only wanted the goddess to make love to her.

She took Gabrielle's hand and pointed at the furs for her to lie down. The young woman was only vaguely aware of her surroundings, absently noting marble walls and a bed covered in soft animal fur. She stretched out on the bed as the now also naked Goddess lay next to her and leaned in capturing an erect nipple with her mouth and sucking hard.

"So very beautiful, My Gabrielle." The goddess spoke her words muffled by Gabrielle's pliant flesh.

"Aaaarrrhhh!" Gabrielle threw back her head in ecstasy and moaned inarticulate sounds as jolts like lightening shot straight down to her lower belly where an inferno raged spreading liquid fire through her.

As she kissed her, Artemis's hands followed the river of molten heat straight to Gabrielle's center. The young woman was beyond thought. Her body had become a field of pulsating sensations that continued to build, relentlessly driving her forward.
"I … aaaah…. aaaah" she knew what she was feeling but any rational thoughts had disappeared.

Pleasure bordering on pain pushed against her core. She needed release; she tried to beg for it; but was only able to push a primitive sound through her throat, "Unghhh."

Breathing became impossible… not enough air… then too much. She was near frantic with need. But despite her body's powerful demand for completion, Gabrielle's heart called out, "Xenaaaa!"

From that deepest part of her soul, all her longing poured out. From that sacred place within, love's call went forth seeking its true mate.

And like a river flowing inexorably toward the sea, it found its mark. Deep within the cold colorless mists of the underworld, Xena's head jerked upright as her own heart responded to Gabrielle's summons. Since waking in the spirit world, she'd wandered aimlessly in circles. Now Xena saw a path open up in front of her as the mists cleared. The beautiful cavern where she'd left Gabrielle was revealed to her in the distance. She could just make out two women, a blonde and a brunette, lying side by side on sleeping furs. As she looked at the scene, she felt an insistent tugging on her soul and then she was propelled at great speed straight into the body of the dark haired woman.

Gabrielle's reality had likewise shifted at that moment. As if she was trapped inside a wind storm, she felt an incredible rush of air, blowing past her. In her mind she was with Xena. No other possibility existed for her now and it drove her desire even higher.

Over and over and over, she chanted the name that had come to mean her life, "Xena, Xena, Xena."

As she ground her hips against her partner, Gabrielle discovered that her own need for release had changed to an insatiable desire to satisfy her partner.

Caressing her lover's body everywhere, her hand found its way between her partner's thighs. Gabrielle's fingers swam through the warm, wet folds of her lover. Hips rising up to meet her hand demanded more. Following her lover's lead, she slid two fingers inside the tight canal.

She was rewarded with a long drawn out moan. Followed by her lover's hips moving franticly against her. It excited Gabrielle immensely and she began to move her arm faster in a similar tempo to match her partner's ever accelerating pace.

Through the one synapse still functioning in her brain, she became aware of her lover going suddenly still. And then as strong muscles clamped down on her fingers she heard her own name cried out, "Gab ri ellllle."

That deep voice, so familiar, caused Gabrielle's eyes to fly open and behold the cherished features of Xena. This was her beloved, her soul mate, her reason for living. They were together in the cave lying in their own sleeping furs.

Completely bewildered she whispered, "Xena?"

Lying panting in her lover's arms, Xena observed Gabrielle's concerned expression. She watched each emotion as it flashed rapidly across Gabrielle's face; confusion and disbelief, followed closely by hope and finally uncensored love.

Answering each emotion with a matching one of her own; Xena smiled and hugged the bard to her breast tightly. "Gabrielle! Oh gods, I missed you."

For the first time in memory, words failed Gabrielle. "Xena." She repeated. As the meaning of what she was seeing dawned on her, she broke down into choking sobs.

Pulling the bard onto her chest, Xena held her close, wrapping strong arms around her back and entwining their legs. She strove to establish as much body contact as possible to reassure her young lover that, yes, this was real; she was real. With her hand in the small of Gabrielle's back, Xena rubbed small comforting circles.

While the smaller woman wept releasing the conflicting emotions of her pain and unbelievable relief, Xena crooned the nonsense words of comfort, "S'okay… I got ya…shhhh."

Eventually the torrent of tears lessened and in a series of hiccups and sniffles, the young woman began to regain control. Pulling herself back, Gabrielle looked into the face of the most precious person in her life, and husked. "You're back. I can't… Oh gods, is it really you?"

"It's alright, Gabrielle. I'm here. I'm right here"

In disbelief Gabrielle ran hands over Xena's face, shoulders, arm and torso, needing the reassurance that this was real. She was holding Xena alive and well. Then in a burst of emotional fervor, she clasped Xena hard against her. Pulling back after a few moments, she looked hard into her lover's deep blue eyes.

"I can't believe it. Oh Xena; I…." She hesitated. She'd never said the words before. But she knew she had to now. "Xena, I…. I love you…" She'd said the words finally not knowing how the warrior would respond.

Reaching out with her finger tips, Xena gently traced the features of the woman who had come to mean life to her. Outlining the light brown brow, she noted the silken smooth texture. Mapping the gentle curve of the bard's cheek and around the delicate bow of her lips, Xena blessed each place with finger tips and then followed them with her lips and a benediction, "My love", which she whispered repeatedly.

Kissing eyelids, nose, jaw and finally lips lightly, no more than the weight of a butterfly's wings; Xena looked up at her soul mate.

"I love you." Xena's barely audible whisper was spoken with reverence and awe. The words had escaped her mouth before she could stop them. Time and again, she'd casually spoken these same three words to her bed mates. Always uttered in a passionate embrace, the words had less significance than the air it took to say them. Now, somehow, some way, she was determined for Gabrielle to know that this was different. The warrior of few words desperately desired a way to tell the precious young woman in her arms that she was different, that she was the center of Xena's world; that there was no other light in it. Helplessly, she struggled to articulate her heart.

A small whimper sounded in the young blonde woman's throat. With infinite gentleness, Xena took Gabrielle's face between her hands and studied the bard's face carefully. What she saw shook her; desire, a longing so acute and raw that it announced itself with the force of a blow and Xena understood her need. If she couldn't say the words, then she'd find a way to show the bard the truth of them.


Slowly pulling the young woman toward her, Xena covered Gabrielle's mouth with her own. Her tongue traced Gabrielle's lips asking permission for entry.

Moaning her acceptance, Gabrielle opened her mouth to her lover. Their tongues danced together reigniting the fire in Gabrielle's groin. With a loud groan, she pushed her pelvis hard against Xena's muscled thigh.

Rolling the bard over onto her back, Xena leaned over her lover. "Let me show you…" she planted a kiss on Gabrielle's exposed neck.

"Let me take care of you…" she spoke into the hollow of Gabrielle's throat and her lips pulled at the soft delicate skin. Xena's voice trailed off as she sucked hard and the young woman pushed her neck up demanding more. Xena complied. Using hands, lips, and tongue she trailed flame over Gabrielle's skin and stoked the fire into a roaring blaze.

Unerringly she found Gabrielle's most intimate and sensitive places. Each curve, valley, and expanse of skin on Gabrielle's body was lovingly touched by her warrior, flooding the young woman with pleasure and she quickly returned to heights of arousal she'd attained under the goddess's ministrations.

Trailing her fingers lightly over the firm flesh of the bard's belly, Xena moved slowly but steadily downward over her body until her fingers tickled lightly through the golden patch of downy hair at the bard's thighs. Warm fluids coated Xena's fingers as she gently parted the soft folds of skin. She let her fingertips graze the pulsating nub at the bard's center, even as her lips encompassed an erect nipple.

Gabrielle groaned and rocked her hips faster against the fingers stroking the tight bundle of nerves between her legs. Her eyes tightly closed against the sensation and her own desire, Gabrielle experienced conflicting emotions as she recalled her time with Artemis. She whimpered and cried out, "no wait; please, stop …no, I need… I want… Xena, I need you."

Realizing the cause of her lover's distress, Xena stopped all movement and leaned over her speaking tenderly, yet firmly. "Look at me, Gabrielle. Look at me."

Opening her eyes and staring deeply into Xena's blue eyes, she saw only devotion and caring reflected there. Gabrielle's relief was palatable as she accepted the truth. Yes, this was Xena. Her heart filled to bursting with love. This woman loving her was everything, her reason for living. "Xena?"

Looking back and holding her gaze with the same eternal adoration, Xena spoke softly, "I'm right here Gabrielle."

She leaned in and kissed the blonde woman again softly. Holding the green eyes with her own, she spoke the words of reassurance, "You're safe now. Just look at me. Stay with me. I'm here. Do you want to stop?"

"No! I want you, only you." Green eyes shining with love and trust bored into Xena.

Smiling down at her lover, Xena began stroking the young woman in long sure strokes, through the slick velvety folds, over and over, up and back.

Never taking her eyes from her dark haired lover, the young woman again moved with purpose against Xena's fingers. Soon she was gasping out her passion and need in short gasps.

Sensing she was near the peak, Xena called to her one last time. "Let it go, Gabrielle. Come to me."

It was enough, Gabrielle found herself at the crest … and for an endless moment the universe stopped, no time, no space, only pure being and then she tumbled over the edge… cascading downward like a waterfall. Finally, set free in her pleasure, she cried out, "Xenaaah", as the force of her orgasm washed over her.

Instantly, Xena gathered the young woman into a tight embrace. They held each other tightly, breathing hard, riding out the waves of ecstasy together.

Holding Gabrielle in her arms, Xena realized the magnitude of what had just happened. No, she wasn't referring to returning from the land of the dead completely healed. Even her eyesight had been restored. She had returned from Hades domain before. What truly amazed and delighted her was waking from the dead fully aroused, in Gabrielle's arms and on the verge of the most incredible orgasm she'd ever experienced. For almost two years, she'd dreamt of being with Gabrielle as her lover, but had never believed it possible. She'd even fantasized how it might be their first time, but nothing in her imagination prepared her for the reality of what she'd just experienced. One part of her was very glad that they had all the awkwardness and fears of the first time behind them, but another part was concerned about the way it had happened. Much as she hated the idea, she knew they needed to talk.

For her part, Gabrielle was still thoroughly confused. She stared uncomprehendingly at her partner. Gabrielle wondered if this was a vision, some remaining effect of Artemis's enchantment. But as she looked into the familiar sky blue eyes, eyes that were looking back at her, she realized the truth; this was Xena. She was back, alive and whole and she had made love to Gabrielle. She glanced around the cave to be sure, but they were alone, lying in each other's arms in their sleeping furs.

"You're alive. And… and you can see." Gabrielle spoke slowly; the wonder of this revelation was clear in her voice. "How can that be?"

"I don't know how any of this happened, just that we're together."

"I can't believe you're here and healed." Gabrielle let out a sob of relief as her tears flowed.

Xena's voice was gentle as she spoke, bringing Gabrielle back to the present, "Shhh, Gabrielle? I'm okay… I'm here… it's okay…" She kept whispering the assurances until the bard became quiet. "What about you? Are you all right?"

Gabrielle turned her tear streaked face to her lover, the only person who mattered to the bard. She choked and struggled to get control. Her relief was undeniable.

"Yes, I'm alright now… more than all right." She smiled up at Xena and held her tightly.

Emotions still too close to the surface caused her voice to catch, when she asked. "Where were you? Yakut and I walked the spirit world looking; I called and called."

"Shshhhh. It's all right now. I heard you, but I couldn't find you. It was so damned foggy I couldn't see my hand in front of my face. I took a wrong turn and ended up on Charon's dock and he's there trying to get me on his damned boat. No way was I crossing till I got to you."

Desperately needing the contact, Gabrielle could not stop stroking Xena's soft warm skin.

"How did you avoid it?"

"Told him I didn't have the fare. The bastard offered to float me a loan." She chuckled.

"I said I'd think about it."

In Xena's typical story telling fashion, she quickly related the rest of her time in the underworld.

"So, I wandered around looking for the way back to you, and I had a few words with Hades. He really wanted me to stay, but I had other plans and that's when I felt you. It was like you were calling me back and then the mist cleared and I saw the path. Next thing I knew I was here with you, like this." She gestured to their entwined naked bodies.

Gabrielle turned crimson at what she'd experienced with Artemis. Wishing it could have been some other way, wishing desperately that it had been with Xena.

"How, ah, I mean when did you …ummm?" she asked.

Xena seldom saw Gabrielle at a loss for words and she rescued her small lover.

"I was here for the best part." She gave Gabrielle a reassuring squeeze and then pulled back a little to gaze into soft green eyes.

"Oh," Gabrielle blushed to the roots of her honey blonde hair. She was embarrassed by what she felt was her betrayal of Xena. If she could have had it any other way, she would have. But given the situation, taking Artemis's offer seemed the only option left. Looking into eyes the color of the Aegean, she searched for forgiveness and understanding.

Having arrived back in the cave the way she did, Xena had a pretty good idea of the cost of her resurrection. During her years as a warlord, she herself had spent more time in Ares bed than she cared to contemplate. She knew well the power of the gods in that area. And she knew well the power of a Warlord over her captives. They did exactly as they were told.

Hoping to ease the bard's discomfort, she said, "I know you begged Artemis to help me and I know she demanded a high price from you for it. And I also know, whatever the cost to yourself, you've paid it."

Gabrielle did not know how to respond. She'd have done anything to save Xena, made any sacrifice, but to have her will stolen by the goddess and to be used by her, did leave her feeling shamed and guilty.

"I don't know what to say, Xena. I wanted you back. She didn't give me a choice. All of her queens submit to her… that's what she told me and that's what she wanted… my …" she trailed off. She couldn't say the words even now in the safety of her lover's arms.

"I would have never asked you to do it, Gabrielle. I'm not worth it."

"That's not true! You are worth it! I would pay any price, any…" she stopped, as Xena's anger came pouring out.

"I hate her, for what she did Gabrielle." She raised her finger to Gabrielle's lips to forestall her reply. "I know how the gods are. They use humans as if we don't matter. It's as if we don't mean anything."

She paused and moved her finger gently over the bard's cheek for emphasis.

"And you… you mean everything…" as her words ran out, Xena stopped. At the best of times she was no good at putting her deepest feelings into words, and at this moment her entire being resonated with unspent rage at the moon goddess.

Now it was Gabrielle's turn to comfort and reassure. "It's alright Xena. Really, I… I did what I did…"

She looked up momentarily at the beautiful colors splayed across the interior of the cavern and chose her next words carefully. She did not want Xena to know the depth of her sacrifice.

"She kept her word. That's all I care about. You're here. That's all I care about."

Drawing the younger woman into her arms, she laid a gentle kiss on Gabrielle's head, using the chaste kiss as a way of releasing her fury and accepting the bard's decision.

"Okay, if that's how you want it. But, Gabrielle, are you all right with this; with us together like this, I mean?"

Blushing furiously again, the bard struggled to articulate her joy at being with Xena now.

"Oh yes… Xena, I wanted this… well, not exactly like this…" she smiled self consciously into the crook of Xena's neck, took a calming breath and then started again.

"Xena, I love you and I've loved you for such a long time. I've loved you since we met so many seasons ago. And so yes, I very much wanted to make love with you. I just never thought you felt the same way."

Xena smiled so broadly that the skin at the edges of her azure eyes crinkled. She'd never dreamt she could feel so much love for anyone nor have that love returned.

"Me too," she stated simply.

They shared a familiar kiss, just lips brushing. Then settled back in each others arms and enjoyed the quiet of the moment.

Gabrielle tried unsuccessfully to stifle a yawn. Xena reached down and pulled the furs over their nude bodies. She tucked the smaller woman against her.

Xena spoke into Gabrielle's pink ear. "Tomorrow you can decide where we go from here."

"Really?" She thought about it for a while.

"I'd like to visit the Amazon's. They came when I called. They deserve to know what happened." She heard the uncertainty in her own voice. She knew Xena was not comfortable with all the pomp and ceremony of the Amazons.

"Please?" she added the final entreaty.

Xena mentally rolled her eyes knowing she'd have to endure some weird Amazon rite and celebration, but her heart was so full of love for this remarkable woman she could deny her nothing. "Sure why not."

"You mean that?"

"Of course. We'll leave in the morning. It's a two day ride." She tucked the furs around Gabrielle's shoulders and molded herself around the familiar small body.

"We should get some rest. You must be exhausted. I know you wore me out."

She chuckled when she saw the color climb up Gabrielle's neck to her hairline. Gods, she is so much fun to tease and she is so much more than I ever deserved.

"Good night, my Love."

"I love you, Xena."


* * * AMAZONS BACK HOME * * *

As the smoldering eastern stick burned slowly, giving off a steady pungent scent of flowers and wood smoke, Otere kept her vigil. Chanting, she paced out the path of Apollo's chariot around the prone figures. Her concentration had not wavered in the half candlemark the two Amazon's had been in trance. As the sacred smoke twisted its way to the roof of the council lodge, the stick burned very low. Otere was becoming concerned for Yakut and the regent. Coming to a decision, she abruptly stopped her procession and knelt next to Yakut. Delicately, she reached out and felt the skin on the healer's cheek with the backs of her fingers. She was surprised at how rapidly the healer had lost body temperature.

Solemnly, she spoke. "We can't wait any longer. I need to call them home."

Glancing across the fire to where the regent lay, Otere was sure she detected a slight dampness on Ephiny's skin. Yes, it is time or we'll lose both a healer and regent.

Rising gracefully, Otere stood over the sacred fire. She pulled the "Calling" herb from her waist pouch and held it high over the flames. "By the power of the godde …"

But before she could finish her incantation, Yakut's eyes flew open and she awoke with a sucking gasp as she drew air into her lungs. Even before she released that first breathe, Ephiny had likewise returned to her body. Immediately, Noalani went to the regent aiding her to sit upright next to the fire, while Otere dropped to her knees and assisted Yakut.

Ephiny felt light headed and nauseous after two consecutive trips out of her body. Noting her pallor, Noalani, gently forced the regent's head down between her knees. Softly, she instructed, "Breathe deeply, Ephiny… that's it… now another."

All the council members were on their feet surrounding the two women, desperate for information. Firmly, Noalani took charge. "Sisters, be seated, please. Give them a moment."

As the women returned to their places around the sacred fire, Yakut regained her feet. She took her place in the center near the fire next to Ephiny still sitting on the ground catching her breath. Offering her hand to the regent, Yakut helped Ephiny to her feet. Standing quietly, waiting until all chatter died away, the healer gazed out over the women with authority. Sensing there was much to hear, the Amazons grew quiet as they watched their regent and healer with an air of anticipation.

Once settled, Yakut began speaking in a slow cadence as if she was still partially in trance, and not yet completely returned to her body. She informed them that they were to prepare themselves for the ritual blessing of thanksgiving to the goddess for returning their Queen with her consort. Yakut, having walked the spirit world with Gabrielle, knew the Queen would have gone back and walked it alone if her Warrior had died. To Yakut, the Queen was returning from the dead as well. And she informed the Council of that fact.

Depositing sage into the sacred fire as a purification herb, the healer intoned a blessing to the goddess and asked her for a safe journey and return of the Queen and Xena. She removed a powdery substance from the pouch at her waist and sprinkled it into the fire where it erupted in a shower of sparks. She turned to the women and opened her palms to the smoked filled rafters of the sacred lodge. They did the same as she sang the blessed rites of thanksgiving. She closed the ritual with another sprinkling of the powder.

The women then turned to her asking about the spirit walk. She looked into the dying embers and said, "If she'd been alone, I don't think the Queen would have returned." The enormity of the statement settled on each of them and they quieted. Yakut did not say anything more. There was no need.

It was Ephiny's turn, as Regent, to address the council. "We must prepare for the festival. They'll be here soon. Let us make it a day of happiness and celebration. The tribe looks to the women in this room for leadership. We want the finest music, the finest food and the best wine we have to offer. It is close to Solstice; only four days until the full moon. It may be wise to think in those terms and make this mid-summer celebration the greatest our tribe has ever experienced; a night of thanksgiving for the return of our queen as well as honoring the Solstice."

The mood of the Council women changed from somber to joyous as the spectacle of a festival began to be realized. Chatting animatedly amongst themselves, the women began to disperse. Yakut, Otere and Ephiny emerged from the sacred lodge together.

Their presence was immediately noted by the rest of the tribe as women from all reaches of the encampment rushed over to find out what had happened. There was a barrage of questions…

"What Happened?"

"Where's the Queen?"

"Where's Xena?"


Yakut held up her hands to silence them and turned to Ephiny. "It's for you to tell them."

Ephiny shook her head, not sure what there was to tell. But she relayed their story. She told of finding the Queen and the nearly dead warrior. That Yakut had attended to Xena but knew it was hopeless. Then she told them their goddess and protector, Artemis, had appeared to them and instructed them to prepare for the return of the Queen and the fallen champion. This information brought a new flurry of inquiries.

"Is Xena dead?"

"You actually saw Artemis?"

"Are we preparing a funeral pyre?"

"What about our Queen?"

"What are we supposed to do?"

"How can they be returning if…."

"I don't know…" Ephiny yelled loudly to quiet the group. The Regent was as perplexed as everyone else. She looked at Yakut for confirmation.

"Our goddess appeared to us and told us she would take care of everything. All we know is that the Queen and her champion will return in three days time."

The amazons looked around muttering one to the other, clearly not understanding how this would come to pass.

"Amazons, the Regent has spoken. We are to prepare for the Queen's return. This will be a festival of renewal and rebirth." Yakut spoke with authority as the Council's spiritual advisor and healer.

As one, the muttering stopped and all turned towards her as she spoke.

"We have much to do. And we only have three days. Each of you knows what has to be done. It will be a great celebration. See to it."

The women began chattering among themselves and moving with purpose to their assigned duties. A festival of renewal and rebirth was usually held at Beltane. But this one was different. The Queen was returning. Something dire had happened and it would take a few hours for the story to wind its way through the encampment. The story would take on a life of its own as the women, each to their own duty, prepared the food, wine and music for the festival.


The weapons mistress had listened attentively as she stood near the regent. Turning in her direction, Ephiny said. "Eponin, you must post scouts and lookouts further out. We need to know as soon as the Queen and Xena reach Amazon lands. They must be escorted in."

The weapons commander acknowledged her Regent and saluted. "I'll send my best scouts immediately, Regent. It will be good to welcome the Warrior; and of course the Queen." She added the last with a wink.

The other women were dismissed to go about the preparations required for the festival.



<>

* * TALK CAN TRIP YOU ON THE WAY TO AMAZON LANDS ***

Argo's warm broad rump felt soothing against Gabrielle's pleasantly sore thighs. She'd never felt so alive nor loved so completely. Random thoughts, snatches of ideas and pleasurable memories floated across her consciousness as she dozed against Xena's solid back. When they'd begun riding that morning, she noticed that the stiff battle dress creaked as they rode, but as the day wore on it had softened with the heat from Xena's body and the warmth of the early summer sun. With her cheek resting against the pliant leather, smelling richly of Xena's scent of cinnamon and musk, Gabrielle drifted in a reverie as she recalled their sensual morning together.

They had awakened for the first time as lovers and in that half aware state made slow and tender love again, reaching the pinnacle and riding the crest joined as one; ending finally with a sigh in each others arms. Shivering slightly as she recalled the sensations, she smiled. They'd been traveling for hours now. Xena had insisted that she ride too. It would be faster for one thing, but she suspected the stoic warrior wanted to keep her close as their recent separation was still too fresh in their minds.

Xena took comfort in the feel of Gabrielle's arms around her waist. She smiled as she glanced down to see the smooth skin of her lover's hands flex and twitch as she slept. Xena raised her eyes to the heavens and gave silent thanks to what ever benefactor had so blessed her unworthy self with such a gift as this young woman.

She'd woken this morning to find a still sleeping Gabrielle sprawled half across her body. Her right leg had migrated between Xena's knees and it rested pleasantly against her center. She'd only meant to plant a chaste kiss on her lover's sleep softened mouth, but that kiss had been immediately returned and Gabrielle had moved against her with purpose. Things had quickly escalated and in moments they were rocking together in the ageless dance of love. Feeling herself becoming aroused again at the pleasurable memories, Xena looked for a distraction.

It was early in the season for it to be this warm. The endless blue sky reminded Xena of the placid waters of the Aegean, but the heat that had been so pleasant only a candle mark ago now had become an oppressive presence. She knew a place. Don't I always, she reflected. After spending so many years roaming every backwoods' path and game trail there were few secret places hidden from her. But this was another special place, private and secure where they could enjoy a midday meal and cool off from this sweltering journey. Turning Argo off the main road, they made for the spot a mile further back into the thick forest. The splashing sounds from the waterfall alerted her that they had arrived. It was time to begin waking Gabrielle, a deep sleeper under any circumstances.

"Gabrielle." Nothing. "Gabrielle, time to wake up, Love."

A mumbled reply came, "naw..sleeee..ng."

Xena chuckled and turned slightly in the saddle to assess her slumbering lover. "I know you're not sleeping. Are you hungry? I might be prodded into catching us some fresh trout for lunch."

In reply the young woman stretched, flexing her arms and then releasing them. Xena was mildly shocked at the strength in those arms as they gripped her middle. Gabrielle has changed and grown so much in the past two seasons. I can hardly believe this is the same girl that followed me from Poteidaia. Pulling Argo to a stop near a large spreading olive tree, she noted the crystal pool and the falls that cascaded in sheets down steep faced cliffs.

Pulling her face from the hot sticky surface of her leather pillow, Gabrielle peeled herself loose. Xena dismounted as Gabrielle looked around again struck by all the beauty she'd been privileged to experience since traveling with Xena. The granite faced cliffs from which the water rushed down to meet the aqua blue pool below reflected diamond like sparkles under the brilliant sunlight. Several olive trees grew in clusters, stretching their gray-green leaves up to meet the sun. The biggest tree, the one they'd stopped beside, stood alone in the middle of the meadow. Tender new grass grew all around giving the impression of a park, much like the small patch of greenery that always grew in the village square each summer in Poteidaia where she grew up. The entire scene lent her an inner peace she'd been lacking in the face of their recent trials. Smiling, she broke from her reflections as strong arms reached up to lift her down from the golden palomino's tall back.

Xena kept her hands on the bard's shoulders and looked carefully at her face. What she saw pleased her. However, she was worried about, how she, a warrior of few words, would ever express the wonder of it, the warmth that filled her from just being in the presence of this remarkable young woman, now her lover? She mentally shook herself and determined she'd find the words some how, but not now. It was always better to put off these things and go for what she knew.

"How about a swim to cool off first?" she asked her dazed looking blonde companion.

"Ummm, that sounds heavenly. I had forgotten how sticky it gets just riding."

Yeah, riding fitted so close together we could have been one rider can get sticky, very pleasantly sticky, Xena thought to herself. An involuntary smile broke out. She strode to the edge of the azure pool and quickly began to strip down. She glanced over her shoulder to see Gabrielle lick her lips as she watched Xena disrobe.

Xena smirked back knowingly. And although she was having exactly the same thoughts said, "Come on, ya just gonna stand there getting sun stroke?" With that she executed a swan dive, her nude body making a perfect arc as it sliced into the crystal blue water.

Entranced by the vision of Xena's naked body knifing through the air and splitting the calm surface with barely a ripple, Gabrielle walked to the edge of the water, mesmerized. The sight of Xena doing anything physical always brought a thrill to her, but seeing Xena doing it naked was enough to stir the libido of a corpse and Gabrielle was very much alive.

As she watched, Xena popped up just inside the waterfall, her hair glistening like a shiny otter's pelt, the water sheeting from her head, and then she disappeared again, diving back under the shimmering waters only to emerge again seconds later outside the falls. Flashing a crooked smile at Gabrielle, she dived once more, this time emerging with a large rainbow trout in her grasp. The big fish thrashed in her grip. Scales shining like new dinars, she threw the catch to an unsuspecting bard, still trying to undress on shore.

The slippery trout caught her square in the chest, jerking the half-dressed bard out of pleasant fantasies to find herself grappling with their lunch. Finally, she deposited the wriggling fish in some tall grasses near the shore. She stood hands on slender hips contemplating for a moment; thinking just how aptly named the trout was as every color in the rainbow sparkled in the bright light of Apollo's chariot. She watched the creature struggle to breath and decided the kindest thing would be to kill it quickly. Without pause, she grabbed up a near by stone and hit the fish solidly between the eyes. Instantly, it lay still and Gabrielle uttered a silent prayer of thanks to Artemis for the gift of this food even as she thanked the spirit of the fish and sent it on its way.

"Come on, Gabrielle. The water is purrr fect." She rolled the words off her wet tongue.

Stripping quickly out of the rest of her garments, she left her clothing in a heap beside Xena's leathers and executed her own version of a swan flop. As Gabrielle surfaced smiling and spitting a stream of cool water, she spotted Xena still near the falls and moved in that direction. Her arms cut deep furrows in the crisp cool water, as she swam easily to where Xena waited.

Xena watched as her sleek blonde companion approached. Xena's heart filled as she remembered that awkward village girl who'd turned her back on home and family, on all she knew, to follow without question - a tired and beaten warrior. She'd seen the small changes; the building of confidence, the acquiring of survival and weapons skills and the development of muscles, all contributing to the transformation of that girl into this beautiful competent woman swimming toward her. Her heart swelling with emotion, Xena acknowledged to herself that she loved Gabrielle beyond anything she could have ever imagined.

When Gabrielle reached her lover she wrapped small yet strong legs around Xena's torso and tan arms around her shoulders, and then buried her head in the crook of Xena's shoulder.

Ah, bliss. She thought.

Bliss until her playful lover began a slow and methodical tickle across her ribs and down her navel. Gabrielle hung on for all she was worth, but it was hopeless, she was the most ticklish woman in the known world and the warrior knew it.

"Stop, Xena, Stop! I can't breathe." Gabrielle screamed with laughter and squirmed as the relentless attack continued unabated until she cried out for mercy.

Xena pulled back then and planted a gentle kiss on her nose, then on her eyes, then on her cheeks, and finally on slightly parted lips. Then and only then did they share a deep soulful kiss, the need for air finally forcing them to pull apart to gaze with tenderness into each other's eyes. That look was Xena's undoing. She needed to somehow express her deep feelings for her new lover.

The scissoring of Xena's muscular long legs had kept them afloat in the deep water. Now still holding Gabrielle in her arms, Xena kicked forcefully toward the shore and soon her feet found the sandy bottom.

Holding Gabrielle close, she breathed in her scent and gathered her thoughts which seemed scattered like a flock of geese rising before the hunter's arrows. Pulling back to look into green eyes filled with love and trust, Xena spoke hesitantly.
"Gabrielle… I … I would do … I want to…" Stopping and starting several times, she finally trailed off miserably.

How could she express the depth of her feelings for this precious woman she held as they stood in the middle of a river? She could barely acknowledge to herself that she had those feelings.

Over the years she'd told one casual bedmate after another she loved them; most often as a ploy to get what she wanted. The words had become meaningless drivel. She'd learned to see love as a weakness; a weakness that could lead to disaster. Feeling the need to be strong and able to respond to any danger, she could never allow herself to trust anyone. She'd been betrayed by love too many times. To love meant to trust, trust that those fragile feelings weren't turned into a weapon of power over her.

Now when she felt compelled to feel and express the deepest emotions in her heart, she was unable. She had always been a woman of few words; her actions spoke for her. No matter that Gabrielle had proved her love and devotion time and again, Xena was uncomfortable with displays of affection. Most often Xena had expressed her true feelings for Gabrielle in a playful or casual way so that she could use the camaraderie as a shield, never having to admit the depth of her caring.

She looked away to the big olive tree under which Argo grazed. She could not meet Gabrielle's eyes. She was so afraid that Gabrielle would see the chink in her armor and recognize her for the fool she was. But gentle fingers at her jaw, insistently turned her head back to look into verdant green eyes that she swore opened directly into the bard's soul.
I can look into those eyes forever the warrior thought.

"I'm right here, Xena. You don't need to be afraid to talk to me."

Xena blew out a gush of air through her nose. "You scare me. Love scares me. Makes me feel; I don't know. It scares me that maybe I can't protect you. And I always try to protect my family." She stopped for a moment, remembering a time long ago. "And some times I fail."

"Cortese you mean? Xena, you were a child."
"Even before that. Gabrielle, children without fathers learn to be strong and protect themselves and those they care about."

"And now you love me," Gabrielle said. It was a statement of fact. "Do you think I don't know that? Do you think I could ever doubt it?"

Choking on her own words, Xena struggled to breathe. A battle raged inside her, a battle few knew was even being waged; the war to tear down the walls around Xena's heart versus the need to keep that tender place, protected and safely tucked away. Blue eyes pleading for understanding, bored into the young woman. Please understand what I cannot say; and know what I'm afraid to feel and please don't ask me to say it if I could find the words.

"Xena, I know this is hard for you…"

"No!" The word was harsher than we wanted.

Then, more softly, to ease the hurt caused by her emphatic reply, Xena said, "No, you don't understand; can't really… words come easily to you; your heart is so open and honest and mine is… mine is closed… so many seasons, so many lost years... it's hard for me to even feel love… or admit that I can love and now with you.. I want … I want to show you… everything…" It ended on a whisper with Xena touching her own heart and then she looked away again.

Gabrielle longed to pull Xena against her breast and just let this go, but something held her back. No, if they were to ever have an honest and equal partnership, it needed to start now, no more diversions, no more banter and no more excuses. It needed to start with Xena trusting her enough to say what was in her heart and accepting that Gabrielle would honor and protect that trust.

Taking a breath, she began, "Xena, look at me!"

Slowly Xena's head turned back and the fear and hope that Gabrielle saw there almost undid her resolve

Determined, she forged on, "I love you. Do you know what that means?"

Uncertain, Xena shook her head side to side and then up and down.

Gabrielle nearly burst out laughing, but held on. This needed to be done. Looking at the horizon to regain her equilibrium, Gabrielle absently noted puffy white clouds floating lazily in the pale noon day sky, the brilliant sun light having washed the heavens of its color.
Looking straight into Xena's deep blue eyes, very like the color of the pool they now stood in, she continued, "It means that your heart is safe with me. Xena, I am asking you to trust me. You think I'll see you as weak, or that I'll ask something of you that you can't give me, but you couldn't be more wrong. I, of all people know you for the strong and invincible woman you are, and I know what this is costing you to let your guard down. And I know what a gift it is to me for you to do this."

Xena was stunned by the bard's depth of understanding, although why she was surprised, she couldn't say. Gabrielle had always shown perception far beyond her years. Looking into the endless depths of Gabrielle's green eyes, Xena saw only compassion, honesty and love reflected there.

"Gabrielle, I'm trying to tell you that no one has held the place you do in my life and in my heart. I'd do anything to prove that, lay down my life; make any sacrifice."

Shaking her head, she paused and sighed, disgusted with herself. "And no matter what words I say, it feels like only words, not enough."

Touched that Xena was able to come this close to expressing the inexpressible, Gabrielle replied, "Why do you think it's not enough?"

"Don't know."

She took a deep breath still trying to find the words which would make Gabrielle see that she was afraid, afraid that she wasn't equal to or worthy of this priceless gift. Xena had always felt much more comfortable with action.

"I guess… I just feel like I should do something to prove it."

"You don't need to do or say anything to prove your love. I see it in the way you look at me; the little things you do for me."

Smiling she thought of the little carved lamb that Xena had given her for last winter's solstice. Sending a silent prayer to Artemis that she wasn't overstepping here, Gabrielle said, "Ummm, there is one little thing."

Xena cocked her eyebrow in question.

"Maybe you could try to treat me more as your partner and not so much like the little girl that followed you out of her village two years ago? I don't always need your protection and supervision… I mean, I can pull my weight. Do you think you could let me be the person you make decisions with, fight with and tell your thoughts to?"

"Hmmm, and go to Amazon celebrations with?" Xena tried joking, but soon realized her error as Gabrielle graced her with a scowl. Quickly backtracking, she said, "I'm sorry. Sometimes I can't believe it when I look up and see the capable woman you've become. I'll try, okay. I will try."

Recognizing that this was as close to acquiescence as she'd get; Gabrielle leaned in for a quick kiss.

"Great, let's eat." And then she laughed and was still laughing as Xena lifted her high and tossed her back into the deep pool; only the water closing over Gabrielle's head extinguished the sound.
****
After a sumptuous repast of grilled trout wrapped in grape leaves and fresh wild yams cooked in the coals, Gabrielle was ready for a little nap, but Xena had other ideas.

"Gabrielle, we need to get going if we are going to get to the Amazon territory tomorrow."

Gabrielle looked longingly at the sleeping furs she held in her arms in preparation for a little afternoon siesta and whatever else might come up. Hopefully, she held up the bedding towards the warrior.

"I was just thinking, it's so hot out and this close to the summer solstice we can ride well into the evening, so maybe just a short nap…" She pleaded with her eyes.

Laughing, Xena shook her head. She was dressed again in her leathers and armor for traveling, her sword stowed on Argo's saddle so the bard could ride behind her.

"You, my beautiful bard can sleep anywhere, including right up here behind me." Seeing her partner's disappointed look, she relented a bit.

"If we can get beyond the river before we camp, then it's an easy ride to the territory tomorrow."

Gabrielle, who wasn't convinced said, "I guess."

Xena leaned down and peered into the bard's downcast face. "I promise you can sleep in." she teased.

Gabrielle shrugged.

Xena upped the ante, "I'll even catch ya a nice breakfast."

Gabrielle seemed to consider this offer. "And will you clean it and cook it and feed it to me in bed?"

Xena laughed, "You wanna eat my cooking?"

"It'll be worth it to not have to get up."

"Well, I doubt that, but okay, ya have a deal."

With that, Xena took the bed rolls from Gabrielle and tied them on behind the horse's saddle. Then she mounted. Moving her foot from the stirrup, she bent down and offered her lover a hand up behind her. They moved off, heading slowly back toward the main trail.

Gabrielle looked back longingly at the water splashing into the blue pool they had played in. The falling water raised small waves in a multitude of colors, like tiny rainbows, they formed and disappeared back into the serene waters. The gentle sounds of the waterfall retreated into the distance and Gabrielle fell into a reverie once again and was soon asleep.

* * * ON THE ROAD AGAIN * * *

They'd been riding for over six candle marks, with only brief stops for quick trips into the bushes. Gabrielle had awakened and with her naturally sunny disposition had kept up a steady stream of conversation. Well, not quite conversation, more like a monologue as the warrior barely grunted out her short responses.

"Xena, see those trees over there; the twisted ones that look like two lovers coiled around each other?"

"Uh huh."

"Well that's what I think they are; lovers I mean."

"They're trees, Gabrielle."

"I know that, but see, sometimes, when two souls are meant to be together and then something happens and one dies and the other is left behind with only memories, and even the one that crossed over is lonely, well then they make a pact to be together in the next life and so these two chose to come back as trees wrapped together in each other arms for their entire lifetime."

"Gabrielle, I am not coming back as a tree!"

"It's a story, Xena, use your…"

But before she could finish the sentence, Xena half turned in the saddle, her arm snaked out in front of Gabrielle's face catching an arrow an inch from the bard's cheek. In one smooth movement, she rolled to the rear carrying Gabrielle in her arms to the ground behind Argo. She had barely stood the bard upright and pulled her sword from its scabbard on Argo's saddle before five thugs emerged from the surrounding woods.

However, Xena's first concern was for the archer. Looking toward the trees from where the arrow had come, she caught a glimpse of color that didn't belong and then heard the zing of the next arrow as it was loosed.

Got him, she thought. Snatching the second arrow in mid flight, she dropped it and in one fluid motion, pulled the chakram free with her fingertips launching it straight into the branches. The piercing scream and solid thunk of his body hitting the ground told her she'd found her mark, even as the whirling disk reappeared from the foliage, ricocheted off another tree trunk, clipped one of the bandits behind his ear and homed in on its owner. With nonchalance, she caught the circular weapon and reattached it to her hip.

Xena balanced on the balls of her feet, making figure eights with her weapon and smiling her patented feral grin. The remaining outlaws were well armed, and dressed in what looked like ragged uniforms. Mercenaries then, out of work and looking for easy pickings. Well boys, you just made a fatal mistake, she mused.
Three of them circled Xena while the fourth, a small grizzled man with blackened teeth and a stench that could knock over a horse stalked Gabrielle.

The bard quickly ascertained the situation and made a lunge for her staff still tied to Argo's saddle. As she struggled to free it, the bandit grabbed her right arm and spun her around.

"Where do ya think your going, girly? You and me are gonna have some fun." He cackled; the fumes from his breath nearly gagging her.

Gabrielle did not hesitate; she slammed her foot down on his instep and while he danced around on one foot, retrieved her staff.

"I don't think so." she stated.

Recovering quickly and madder than a badger wakened from a sound sleep, the marauder roared out his anger as he advanced on Gabrielle.

"You are gonna pay for that. Oh yes, you are gonna pay."

He lunged with his blade; she parried. He swung wildly with an over head slash and she blocked the shiny steel away from her head. Feeling confident in her skills, Gabrielle backed up luring the man into attacking. Eponin and Ephiny had taught her well the advantage of patience in a fight and their lessons came back to her now… parry, block, move back, watch his eyes and wait for his mistake… remember Gabrielle, all the time your opponent is attacking, he's using his energy and wasting his strength… bide your time and then swipe low and follow with the overhead strike to take him out… all their instructions were vivid in her mind as she played her defensive strategy.

Gabrielle made no noise as she fought. Letting her staff do her talking for her, it clacked with loud claps against the outlaw's blade. Grunting and huffing, the disgusting man repeatedly beat his sword against the hard wooden stick in fury.

The three men circling Xena, took turns attacking her, trying to keep her off balance. As strategies go, it was a good one and with most single opponents it would have worked, but Xena, seemed to have eyes in the back of her head. Just as the one behind her swung his sword at her unprotected skull, she spun, bringing her sword straight up to first block his attack and then turning the blade so it was hilt toward him, pummeled him between the eyes. Stunned, he went down like a bag of wet grain. Without stopping her turn, she dropped into a low crouch and brought her sword up in an arc which caught the next man high up on his thigh. As he went to his knees, clutching his crotch and screaming in agony, the third yelled, "Let's get out of here." Grabbing up his fallen comrade with the deep thigh wound, the two ran for the woods leaving their unconscious partner behind.

Finally, the repellent cutthroat made his move and Gabrielle was ready. With a wild lunge toward her face once more, she blocked. Then bringing her staff around for the underhand sweep, she flew backward landing hard on her butt, as six foot of furious warrior landed in between her and her opponent.

With hardly a thought, Xena elbowed the villain under the chin, grabbed him by his whiskers with her two hands and head butted him into unconsciousness. Dropping him to the ground like so much rubbish she turned to Gabrielle.

The look on the bard's face should have alerted her, but Xena was feeling only elation from the little skirmish. Seeing that Gabrielle was safe, Xena remarked, "Well that was fun."

"Just what in Hades name did you think you were doing?" a very angry Gabrielle spit out as she struggled to her feet dusting off her backside.

Oh Centaur crap, she never swears. I'm in big trouble. Xena now focused on her smaller companion, noting the body language. Gabrielle stood with her feet planted wide, hands on hips, green eyes flashing, chin raised. Xena tried feigning innocence, "What?"

"I thought we had an understanding, Xena. I thought we were partners… live together, work together, fight the bad guys together!" Gabrielle's voice dripped sarcasm.

Looking around in panic, Xena realized her mistake. "Ummm, it was no big deal…" she stopped short seeing the bard's color go from pink to maroon as her anger made itself even more apparent.

Quickly, she tried another tack.

"I mean, I didn't see any reason for you to… it looked like… I thought I was protecting you. I didn't want to see you hurt." She trailed off in defeat knowing she didn't really have any excuse, short of the fact that she had been caught up in the moment. And yes, in her heart protecting the bard was the only real way she felt able to show her love. Helplessly she looked at the angry young woman.

"That's not the point, Xena. We are partners. I can surely handle one out of five highwaymen."

"Well, sure you can… I just…" Xena tried to interject.

But Gabrielle was having none of it and talked right over her. "And Xena, I had him. I was about to take him down when you come flipping across the meadow and dump me on my butt before I can do it."

Looking positively chastened, Xena struggled for some way to make amends. A groan from the thug lying at her feet alerted her that the object of this discussion was still around reminding the mad Amazon Queen of Xena's transgression. Then she brightened as an idea presented itself. Trotting the few feet over to Argo, she snatched their water skin off the saddle horn and jogged back.

While Gabrielle looked on in bewilderment, she grabbed the semiconscious man by his collar and jerked him upright. Holding him with one hand, Xena uncorked the skin with her teeth and doused the hapless outlaw with the entire contents. Sputtering and coughing from the near drowning, the outlaw pulled uselessly at her grasp.

"Okay, go ahead." Holding the struggling man up in front of her like a gift, Xena beamed.

"Xena, what are you doing?"

"Letting ya put him out." Again she held her gift out in front of herself proudly.

"You don't get it!" Gabrielle threw her hands up in exasperation.

Unconsciously strangling the helpless crook as she pleaded her case, a contrite Xena said, "I'm sorry. You're right, I shouldn't have stepped in. So go on and hit him. It'll make ya feel better."

Incredulous, Gabrielle stared back at Xena.

Into the silence, the bandit in question piped up, "Hey, don't I get a say?"

"No!" they shouted at him in unison.

"Xena, I don't want to hit him now".

"See, the shrimp don't wanna hit me." The wretched man gleefully proclaimed.

"Shrimp?" Gabrielle ground out through gritted teeth.

With that Xena, hauled the stupid bandit up on his tip toes until she was nose to nose with him.

"And you better shut up and pray I don't hand you over to her."

She jerked her head in Gabrielle's direction and continued in an even more threatening manner. "I've seen her take out a dozen losers like you before breakfast."

She shook him hard for emphasis and watched dispassionately while the struggling man went from blue to purple from lack of oxygen.

Turning back to Gabrielle, she winked and asked. "So what do ya want to do with him?"

Her anger dissipated as she realized how ridiculous the situation was. It was almost impossible for her to stay mad at Xena, so she decided to play along.

Bending slowly, she retrieved her staff from the ground and began to advance on the prisoner. "Well, I suppose I could use the practice." She said, barely able to keep a straight face.

The crook's eyes enlarged to the size of serving bowls as he wriggled like a fish on a hook. When Gabrielle was within a foot of him, he gave a mighty pull and twisted free. Screaming epitaphs about crazy, blood-thirsty, man hating women, he ran into the evening.

Staring after the fleeing figure for a moment, the two women then turned to each other and burst out laughing. Tears streamed down Gabrielle's dust encrusted face leaving little trails. She and Xena clutched each other and howled out their merriment.

After several minutes the laughter died away. Pulling back to see Gabrielle's face clearly, Xena said, "I am sorry. I forget sometimes how strong you've gotten and how skilled."

She hesitated as she voiced her worst fear. "I guess you don't need me to protect you anymore."

"Xena, I'll always need you."

"That mean I'm forgiven?"

"Yes." She replied softly.

Xena brought her lips down to Gabrielle's initiating a quick gentle kiss. Sighing, Xena reluctantly pulled away. She knew they were too exposed standing there in the open.

Holding the bard out at arms length, she said. "I'd still like to cross the river today. Is that okay with you?"

"Yes, it's okay. It's not much further is it?"

"Only a short way. We'll be camped in half a candle mark, I promise."

They walked hand in hand to where Argo waited patiently.


* * * DINNER FOR TWO * * *

It was just turning twilight as they made their way through a small opening into a secluded glade. Crossing the river had been uneventful. After the skirmish with the local outlaws, they decided to walk across the ford in order to clean some of the dust and grime from their bodies.

At one point, Gabrielle caught up a handful of water and doused Xena who had quickly reciprocated by nearly drowning her playful partner in a tidal wave of water. Gabrielle knew better than to start any military action against Xena, but her natural lighthearted optimism always seemed to conspire to make her do things she later wished she hadn't.

Now in camp, they quickly stripped out of their wet clothing and donned their sleep shifts and then each went about their usual tasks in setting up camp. Xena gathered some firewood and got a small blaze going then went off to hunt something for dinner, while Gabrielle refilled their water skins, laid out their bedding and hunted though their gear for what ever dried foods they still had. After that, she started some water boiling and sat back on their furs her back against a fallen log to write a few lines in her scrolls about the last several days.

Tapping her lips with the feathered end of her quill, she pondered all that had transpired. When she had an idea of where she wanted to begin, she started to write in her neat precise hand.

Getting to the part of Artemis's role in all this, she paused. She needed to make sure Xena understood the importance of her debt to the moon goddess. Not only had Artemis restored Xena to life and full health, but Gabrielle was her chosen and owed her allegiance and homage. She turned suddenly as a freshly skinned rabbit was dropped near her feet.

"Dinner," Xena announced.

Gabrielle was prepared for it. Seldom, did Xena go off hunting and come back empty handed and tonight was no exception. When they were on short journeys, she usual kept her hunt to the smaller game animals, so Gabrielle had made a skewer from a cypress branch.

Threading the animal onto the spit, she then sprinkled some of their crushed herbs over the meat and laid the hare across the coals to cook. Bubbling in the pot were some fresh tubers and mushrooms she'd found nearby. Heavenly cooking smells filled the early evening air as they settled back to await their food.

Rummaging through their saddle pack, Xena found her sharpening stone. Taking a seat close to Gabrielle, she proceeded to hone her sword blade. The steady scrape, scrape, scrape of the stone against steel was soothing to them both. For them it was a normal sound of their domesticity, as much as the scratching of the bard's quill against parchment.

They worked in companionable silence for a quarter candle mark before Gabrielle decided that this might be a good time for her to broach the Artemis issue. Sighing, she laid her quill aside and said, "Xena, you understand how important this trip to the Amazon territory is to me."

"Yep; it's why we are pushing so hard to be there before the solstice. The Amazons need their queen." Her eyes twinkled with both pride and good humor and she nudged Gabrielle in her ribs and squeezed her thigh.

Slapping Xena's hand away playfully, she decided to try to convey the seriousness of it for her. "Yes, all the festivals are important to the Amazons, but this trip is about more than that. We need to thank Artemis for restoring your life."

The steady sound of the honing tool against Xena's blade stopped. Into the quiet, Xena spoke softly. "Gabrielle, I am going with you and will do my best not to embarrass you with the tribe, but I have no use for gods." She paused for a beat. "And I have serious doubts about Artemis's real motives in this whole thing."

Blushing crimson Gabrielle couldn't think of an adequate reason to explain Artemis's actions. But then who could understand the ways of gods. She, herself, was embarrassed and not a little ashamed of her behavior with the goddess, although it seemed beyond her power to stop it from happening. And the truth was, she'd do it all again, if it would bring Xena back to her.

"I don't know what to say, Xena. We both know the gods don't do anything without a price… a high price sometimes." She ended on a whisper.

Setting her sword and stone down, Xena spoke gently, as if explaining a mystery to a small child. "The thing about gods is there is usually more to what they do than they say… I know you want to believe in the moon goddess, that she is different, but my experience is to not trust them."

"Okay; I'm not asking you to pledge allegiance to Artemis or even thank her, but I need to go make an offering to her and I need you with me in the Amazon village."

"Gabrielle, I'll be there."

"By my side during the festivities?" Gabrielle forced the issue by asking and then begging for Xena's word. "Please?"

Blowing a stream of breath out in resignation, Xena realized she could never refuse this precious woman anything. "If that's what you want, then yes."

In joy, Gabrielle jumped up and plopped herself onto a surprised warriors lap, planting a sweet kiss on her mouth while she murmured, "Thank you."

Strong warrior arms wrapped around the smaller woman drawing her closer as Xena responded to the kiss. How she longed to express her deep love for Gabrielle, to say the words.

Xena groaned into Gabrielle's mouth as she used her tongue to force her way inside. She deepened the kiss even more while her busy hands ran over the bard's back and down her hips finally coming to a stop at firm buttocks where Xena kneaded the pliant flesh through the bard's short sleep shirt. Gabrielle's whimpering response fueled Xena's own desire. Her lust exploded and she pushed the garment up around the young woman's waist. Reveling in the velvety softness of the bard's cheeks, her fingers traced the crack of Gabrielle's buttocks running up to the two dimples at its base and then down lower where a flood of wetness now gathered. Seeing the staccato beat of the pulse in the hollow of Gabrielle's throat, Xena lowered her lips to it and sucked.

"Uuuhhh - mmmmm" Gabrielle could not contain the sound that escaped
From behind them the fire crackled and popped as the grease from the small rabbit dripped down onto the coals. The sounds of roasting meat joined with the hungry suckling sounds of the two lovers while the scents of cooking mingled with the smells of their arousal. The merging of the different sensory stimuli caressed Gabrielle's already overloaded senses arousing her further.

Finally, realizing their dinner might be ablaze, Gabrielle broke off the kiss.

"Oh gods, Xena." Gabrielle gasped as she panted trying to recapture her normal breathing. She glanced over her shoulder to the fire.

Xena just watched her partner through heavy lidded eyes glittering with unspent passion. "Hmmm, are you hungry, my bard?"

Gabrielle was at a loss. She wasn't completely sure what Xena was talking about. Oh yes, she was hungry in ways she could not articulate. The smell of the roast rabbit from the fire pit and the smoldering look in Xena's eyes were both fueling unspeakable hungers that she could barely understand, let alone control.

"I… I… yes… but, I don't want to… stop… I want..." She choked out in jerky broken phrases.

Xena carefully laid her precious bard down on their bedding and gracefully stood up. Snagging the spit of roasted meat, she waved the skewer in the air a few times to cool it. Then she turned and looked down at Gabrielle semi-reclining on their furs, with her weight braced on her arms.

"Let's eat then."

Kneeling down in front of her lover, Xena's passion darkened eyes locked onto Gabrielle's smoldering green ones. Slowly, ever so slowly, she brought the roasted game close to Gabrielle's mouth which opened of its own accord, her eyes never leaving Xena's.

Delicious aromas rose from the meat as Xena delicately brushed the roasted rabbit across Gabrielle's lips, top and then bottom lip coating them with juice and grease until the bard opened her mouth further and accepted the gift. Tender succulent meat and hot juices melded together in her mouth as she bit down. The bite was larger than she had expected causing sizzling drippings to roll out the corners of her mouth and on to her chin. Xena leaned in then, and with strong warm tongue lapped at the fluids as they ran down her face. In long laving strokes, Xena feasted on the juice and sweet taste of her lover, bringing her tongue closer to Gabrielle's mouth. Then she gently lapped at the grease on those sweet lips, licking and stroking and caressing her lover's mouth.

"Ummm, delicious." Xena said as she pulled back slightly, then she whispered. "Eat."

Convulsively, Gabrielle swallowed the bite and watched mesmerized as Xena brought the savory flesh to her own mouth. Never dropping her gaze from her partner's hypnotized stare, Xena chewed opened mouthed, wrapping her tongue around the luscious morsel as she chewed, the liquid from it coating her mouth. As if in a trance, Gabrielle leaned forward; using her index finger she carefully caught one golden drop as it tried to escape and brought the precious fluid to her lips. Her tongue snaked out and circled her finger as Xena watched, groaning out her own passion and desire.

Sitting back against the log, Xena drew the bard onto her lap with her legs straddling Xena's hips. She leaned in and kissed those precious lips again and sucked them into her mouth, tasting the delectable flavors on her partner's skin. Then, pulling back, she pulled off another morsel of game and offered it with her finger tips to her lover. Opening her mouth and taking in both meat and fingers, Gabrielle sucked the digits sensuously even while she swallowed the meat. Her tongue kept up a rhythm as she laved and sucked and moaned around Xena's two fingers.

Taking turns at the spit of meat they continued to feed each other's hunger and each other's passion. Finally, the carcass was stripped bare and tossed back into the fire pit where the hungry flames hissed greedily around the new fuel. Xena reached out with greasy hands and placed one finger into her lover's mouth. Obligingly, Gabrielle sucked it clean and then each one in turn until there remained no trace of the rabbit's juices on Xena's hands. Xena watched her, a roaring inferno building low in her belly. She never took her eyes from the bard's. Gabrielle stared back with undisguised lust.

"Still hungry, my love?"

Gabrielle could only groan.

"I'll take that as a yes."

She pulled the bard closer against her stomach. The wetness from Gabrielle's arousal had completely coated Xena's upper legs and now she longed to feel that wetness against her belly. Running her hands over the bard's backside again, she brought her arms up and divested Gabrielle of her juice stained sleep shirt.

As her passion filled eyes took in her beautiful companion, Xena said, "Oh Gabrielle, what you do to me. You're so beautiful."

Shaking out her long blonde hair, Gabrielle's eyes burned with desire as she now leaned in and captured Xena's mouth in a powerful kiss. Her hips taking up a steady rhythm against Xena's hard stomach muscles. The bard could not contain the hungry sounds that escaped from her throat as her ardor spiraled higher.

"Unngghhh."

Hard nipples pressed against Xena's own breasts and begged to be touched. Xena broke the kiss lowering her head to the pink areola surrounding one of the tiny hard points flicking it with her tongue, and then sucking it hard.

Throwing her head back Gabrielle moaned out her pleasure as jolts of pleasure flashed through her belly warming her all the way down into her center. Her hips picked up the pace as her passion mounted. She gasped out her pleasure, "Oh gods, oh gods…"

Not so fast my love. Xena rose up to her knees still holding her partner and carefully laid her back down on the bedroll, then covered her with her own body to slow the pace.

Bringing her hands up to either side of the bard's sweet face Xena looked into eyes like endless green pools. "I love you, Gabrielle, more than I can say. Let me show you."

Green eyes darkened to the color of ink as her passion ratcheted up another notch and she was only able to reply with a single word, "Yes."

Xena lowered her head and kissed each eye, then each cheek and finally captured her mouth in a searing kiss. Gabrielle thrashed underneath her, silently begging for more contact.

Breaking off the kiss, she moved lower, licking gently under the bard's lower lip, and then kissing under her chin, finally pressing her mouth to the pulse point pounding in Gabrielle's throat. Her hands followed another path, tracing over shoulders and arms. Picking up a hand, Xena placed a delicate kiss on the wrist and then sucked there too. Moving down the bard's body, she worshipped at each stopping place. She blessed each breast with kisses, and then suckled at her nipples, first one and then the other.

As Gabrielle struggled for closer contact she moaned and begged, "Xena, I need --- please, I need you."

Xena obliged by slipping her knee between her partner's thighs. Gabrielle sighed in contentment and then rocked hard against Xena's leg.

Kissing her way down her lover's body, Xena swirled her tongue around Gabrielle's naval dipping the tip inside. Gabrielle's hips jerked in response. Dropping lower still, Xena paused just above the thatch of golden curls, curls wet with the young woman's fluids. Taking a deep breath, savoring the scent of her lover's passion, Xena brushed her lips across the soft blonde pelt, tickling the hairs and raising goose flesh on the insides of Gabrielle's thighs.

Finally, reaching her goal, she parted the bard's legs and settled between them. Kissing each thigh, then the juncture of that thigh and her body, then slowly dragging her tongue through the downy curls, allowing just the tip to penetrate to the liquid heat within, Xena arrived at the place her lover wanted her to be, and began to feast. She licked and sucked at the warm slick velvety folds and stroked the swollen bundle of nerves again and again. Gabrielle responded to the pleasure by grabbing onto Xena's head and holding her in place and crying out, "Yes, there, oh gods, like that!"

Xena knew her young partner was close. This time when she slid her tongue over the throbbing knot, she blew cool air on it while using her finger to trace around the entrance to Gabrielle's center. As she gently pulled her lover's swollen bud into her mouth, she plunged one finger deep inside and began a steady stroking.

Almost instantly, Gabrielle released in a series of violent contractions as muscles clamped down hard around her finger and the bard half sat upright in the throes of her climax. Screaming out in pleasure, her lover's name was torn from Gabrielle's throat, "Xeeee naaaa!"

Keeping up a constant pressure with her mouth until she felt Gabrielle's spent body collapse back onto the furs; Xena moved back up and pulled her lover into a comforting embrace.

Tears of joy painted Gabrielle's cheeks and Xena brushed them away with her finger tips. "You okay?" she asked. The bard could only respond by nodding.

They lay quietly for a while listening to the fire crackle and watching the stars come out over head. After a bit, Gabrielle turned her head and raised herself up on one elbow.

"Thank you Xena," she said softly, and then smiled mischievously and added, "Boy, do you have a way with words."

Xena laughed from deep within her chest. Her relief palatable, she hugged Gabrielle close to her. Maybe she'd never be able to express herself the way Gabrielle could, but for tonight it didn't seem to matter.

As the laughter died away, Gabrielle spoke again, looking uncertainly into deep blue eyes. "I may be the one with the endless vocabulary, but tonight I don't want to talk. I want to touch. I want to touch you in love. Is that alright?"

Perhaps she could show Gabrielle the depth of her love this way, by placing her self into the young woman's hands. Looking up at her small lover with trust, complete trust, Xena made a decision. "Yes, Gabrielle, anything you want."

Gabrielle sat up and crossed her legs. Reaching out she slowly raised Xena's sleep shirt, revealing firm thighs, black pelt of hair at juncture of legs and torso, coppery colored skin stretched over smooth hard stomach muscles and finally firm high breasts and solid muscular shoulders. Xena rose up as the bard insistently tugged the fabric up and over her dark head.

Xena then stretched out on her back with her fingers laced behind her head, allowing her lover an unobstructed view. Gabrielle simply sat for a moment observing the dark haired beauty in all her glory. The glow from the flames polished a golden gloss to Xena's naturally tanned skin.

Watching her young lover through slitted eyes, Xena asked. "What cha looking at?" Her light tone and the slight smile playing at the corners of her mouth, told the bard it was indeed okay to look.

"Gods but you are beautiful."

Xena snorted. One of her more endearing qualities was Xena's lack of vanity about her own appearance. "Gabrielle, I'm covered in scars."

It was true, but to the bard, Xena's beauty glowed from within and exceeded the exterior beauty. The fact that Xena herself was so unaware of her inner light made it burn that much brighter.

Slowly reaching out with tentative fingers, Gabrielle began a journey of the flesh, tracing each curve, valley, and swell on Xena's body. Beginning with her beautiful face, Gabrielle sketched on human canvas the unlined brow, high cheek bones, straight nose, and solid jaw. Traveling down the warrior's body, she paid homage to muscular shoulders, long shapely arms and strong hands, and then the deep hollow at her graceful throat and finally down to soft mounds of flesh with erect nipples peaked in the cool evening air. Using the flat of her hand, she smoothed the abdomen watching with delight as strong muscles jumped under her palm. She brushed gently over the soft black curls, causing Xena's breath to catch on a gasp and her hips to strain upward slightly against her finger tips. Smiling, she passed on to the well defined thighs and long calves and, lastly, to her feet. Here, she paused and kissed each toe.

"Do you like this Xena? Do you like it when I look at you, and touch you?"

Xena could only respond with a groan.

"Not very talkative tonight Xena. Do you want me to stop?" the bard asked playfully.

"Gods, no," she responded.

Gabrielle had pleasured her own body and could count her other sexual experiences on one hand, but still she was wise enough to realize that people were different and if she was ever going to be the kind of lover she herself wanted to be for Xena, she knew she needed direction. Leaning in, she placed a gentle kiss on her partner's full lips, and then deepened the kiss, pushing her tongue inside Xena's mouth. She moaned when Xena responded by sucking hard on her tongue and enfolding her in a strong embrace, pulling the bard down next to her.

Lying in each other's arms now, touching all along the length of their bodies, Gabrielle reached out with an unsure hand and caressed Xena's breasts; first one and then the other with such a light touch that Xena groaned in frustration.

Sensing she wasn't getting it, Gabrielle pulled back and looked into passion darkened blue eyes, "Show me. Show me what you like, Xena."

Looking deeply into Gabrielle's eyes, Xena could only see unconditional love reflected there. Taking the young woman's hand, she led her to a taut nipple. She closed the bard's fingers over it and pulled the puckered nub and twisted slightly.

"Like this," she husked out and moaned.

Gabrielle watched mesmerized at Xena's body's reaction. Her sweet musky scent permeated the evening air and the dark curls glistened with the warrior's fresh warm juices.

Leading the bard's hand to those same curls, she pushed Gabrielle's fingers deep within the slick warm folds.

"And like this."

The wet velvety feel sent shivers of delight through the bard's own groin. Swirling her fingers in the warmth of Xena's most secret places, she was amazed at her own reaction to just touching her partner.

Aware that her young partner was also re-aroused, Xena pushed her knee between Gabrielle's' thighs. Placing hands on the bard's hips, she rocked Gabrielle as their passion spiraled higher.

Moving in the ageless rhythm, Xena picked up the pace as she pushed against the bards fingers. Gabrielle took a nipple in her mouth suckling and biting gently as the movement of Xena's hips escalated even more.

Now Xena voiced her need, "Inside Gabrielle, inside."

Instantly the blonde slipped two fingers inside. "Oh gods, Xena, so soft, so warm," she gasped in wonderment as she stroked the pulsating inner walls.

"Harder," was all Xena could grind out as her hips bucked around the bard's hand.

The bard complied, pumping her arm harder and faster in time with Xena's movements. Finally, almost without warning, Xena stilled for a moment before free falling from the peaks of her arousal, convulsing in release. She emitted one long piercing cry as she climaxed, "Gab-ri-elleeee."

As Xena's orgasm shook her, Gabrielle unconsciously increased her own pace rocking her center hard against Xena's muscular thigh and soon she too slipped over the edge into that ultimate pleasure of love making. Wracking spasms rocked her world before slowly fading away and she lowered herself gently onto her solid human pillow. Strong hands rubbed comforting circles on her back. They lay quietly as the cool of the evening dried the sweat from their naked entwined bodies.

Eventually, the cool night air drove them under the covers. Gabrielle tucked herself against Xena's chest spoon style. Snuggling together their breathing soon became more regular as sleep closed in on them. Just before she was carried into Morpheus realm, a sleepy Gabrielle spoke.

"Xena?"

"Hmmm?"

"I love you."

"I love you too, Gabrielle."

"See? It's not so hard to say."

Xena smiled into the bard's hair. "No. Getting easier."


<>

* * * XENA AND GABRIELLE ARRIVE * * *

Xena and Gabrielle approached the Amazon lands. The lookouts had been properly posted for their arrival and saw them. As Gabrielle chatted happily while walking in front of the warrior, she suddenly felt a hand on her shoulder and stopped. Xena nodded to her then looked up and raised both arms over her head, crossing her wrists in the Amazon sign of peace. Gabrielle, looking back at Xena, realized they were now near the tribal hunting grounds and made the same gesture.

Female bodies clad in leather and animal skins, dropped from the trees above, each one bending on one knee in reverence and respect to their Queen. Gabrielle recognized Cynosura and reached for her and hugged her. All the scouts began excitedly chattering with the Queen at one time. Xena, who was standing behind with Argo, just rolled her eyes at this display thinking, I know I promised her but it's gonna be a long few days.

"Can we just start walking to the village?" She asked to no one in particular.

Her crisp deep voice startled the amazons and they quickly fell into a line on either side of the Queen. Gabrielle looked at her warrior and her broad smile quickly melted the warrior's stern demeanor and she shrugged with a smirk.

"Yes, why don't we start walking" she said to the Amazon scouts as she kept her arm linked with Cynosura's. As they started walking she turned to see the warrior bringing up the rear and she smiled at her again, her dancing eyes setting fire to the warrior's heart.

As they approached the outskirts of the village, birdlike whistles filled the air announcing their arrival. Before long, the entire tribe rushed towards them. Gabrielle saw Ephiny first and opened her arms to her friend and confidante. As she embraced the Queen Ephiny looked over her shoulder to see the Warrior standing there, with no sign of her previous wounds. She looked perfectly healed. The Amazon did not understand what had happened, but knew she would find out soon enough.

"My Queen…" Ephiny began, tears choking her.

"It's alright Ephiny. Everything is alright now. We'll talk about it later in your hut."

Ephiny nodded into her shoulder but continued to hold her tightly. She released her when she saw the Warrior glaring at her. "Gabrielle, we didn't know what to do. Artemis sent us away."

"I know, Ephiny. Believe me; I don't know what happened either. I just know we're back and Xena is fully healed. It's a long story and we'll talk later."

"We were told by the goddess to prepare for your arrival with a festival. Tonight will be a huge celebration and feast for your return. We have prepared food and wine and there will be music and dancing."

The Warrior, hearing Ephiny's words groaned loudly causing Gabrielle to turn around and look at her.

"Xeeena?" she said slowly, emphasizing and drawing out her name.

"You know I hate these things, Gabrielle. A bunch of Amazons howling at the moon is not my idea of a good time. Why don't you go to this… this festival. I'll go hunting or fishing. The moon is almost full and it's a fine time for hunting."

"No!" The words were said forcefully. Then, taking a breath, she spoke more calmly.

"Xena, I owe the goddess. YOU owe the goddess. I begged her to help me and she brought you back to me, completely healed. I even surrendered my…" she stopped herself realizing what she was about to say. "She is the benefactor of the Amazons. And she instructed them to do this. I have no other choice. I must obey her. Will you do this for me?" She paused for a beat before adding, "Please?"

Xena knew she was defeated. She kicked at the dirt with her boot and looked up menacingly when she heard Ephiny snicker.

The Regent saw the warrior's expression and immediately covered her smile. She knew the Queen had spoken. And she knew that Xena loved Gabrielle; would do anything for her. There would be a festival that evening. And the Queen and her warrior would be attending.

Xena refocused her attention on Gabrielle and relented, "Oh alright. I'm going to tend to Argo." Xena huffed off.

"I'll be with Ephiny. I'll see you back in our hut before sundown. Alright Xena?"

The warrior nodded, drawing out a "Yesssssss." Hades Balls! This is not going to be a good evening, she thought. This is going to be a very disturbing evening.

Gabrielle and Ephiny walked through the encampment. Ephiny was curious about everything that had happened to her friend. And she was most interested in the sentence the young woman had left hanging. What had Gabrielle surrendered she wondered, what did that mean? But, as they walked they were constantly interrupted by other women approaching them and asking questions or offering good wishes. The Amazons knew enough of the story to be grateful and happy that the Queen had returned and just wanted to reach out to their leader.

"I'll have to ask her privately about what happened and what she surrendered" thought Ephiny.

"What's planned for tonight, Eph?" Gabrielle interrupted her thoughts.

"Yakut wants to invoke the goddess and then perform a ritual of thanksgiving for your return. Then we'll celebrate and honor your return as our Queen and Xena as your Champion. It'll be much like a Beltane festival."

Gabrielle raised an eyebrow. "Like Beltane? Beltane is the fire cleansing festival of fertility. That's kind of unusual isn't it?"

"Yes and no. We look at your return just like we look at the rebirth of the land. It's your rebirth to us, Gabrielle. We thought you might cross over with Xena. Both of you have returned to us, cleansed by fire and spirit and renewed."

She didn't reply. Instead her thoughts turned to her time in spirit and Xena's confrontation with Hades. They had been into the fires of Tartarus and the swirling mists of spirit and come out whole. To have a festival so near to the solstice was no small matter but it did represent their ordeal and it now seemed a fitting celebration. She thought of the practical matters at hand. "We'll need suitable clothing." She told her friend.

"Don't worry, Gabrielle. Marana has already prepared your attire for tonight. For both of you. It's laid out in your hut. I think you will be very pleased with her work."

They continued walking through the camp, making small talk with the amazons who continued to stop and offer kind words to them.

"You've thought of everything. Thank you Ephiny. You've been a dear friend and if something had happened to me in the spirit world, I know you would have become a great queen to the nation."

Ephiny's eyes filled with tears. "I wouldn't want to be queen on those terms, Gabrielle." The queen, seeing the tears, hugged her friend tenderly.

"What happened to you Gabrielle? With Artemis? I wanted to stay with you; I wanted to protect you. But I had no power over the goddess."

"She sent us away." The pain was evident as she spoke her heart.

"I know that, Eph. Like you, I had no control over the Goddess either. Just the opposite, she had complete control over me, and…" the young woman paused, her anguish plain.

"What happened, Gabrielle?" Ephiny guided Gabrielle over to a bench near a tall tree and they sat down side by side, their legs and shoulders touching. The contact seemed to anchor them both.

Then turning slightly, she asked. "What did she do to you?"

She felt the Bard shudder and heard her breath catch.

"She…" the green eyes teared at the memory. "She wanted me to … to surrender myself…She… She said all the Queens had done that and she wanted me to do that too…" her words trailed off into muffled sobs.

Ephiny touched her friend, stroking her long hair. "Shhhh, it's okay. Take your time. Just say it in your own way. I'm here. No one will hurt you, Gabrielle."

"I was so desperate and so lost Eph. I begged Artemis to help me. She came to me but wanted me to…" She began to cry softly again.

Ephiny put her arm over Gabrielle's shoulder and pulled her into an embrace. The younger woman accepted the comforting gesture of her friend.

What did Artemis want you to do? How did you save Xena?"

Between sobs she poured out her story. "She wanted me to surrender myself to her, Eph. I didn't want to do it." She choked out the words.

"It's alright, Gabrielle. I'm right here. I know our protector is very powerful. It's impossible to stand against the gods. You can tell me."

"I felt like I had no control. It was like she put a spell on me when she kissed me." The words came in a torrent now punctuated by deep sobs. "I was with her, in her chambers and she… she was touching me all over; she was making love to me and I had no will and I couldn't resist. I was captivated by her. She had this incredible power over me and I couldn't resist her. I couldn't break the power, Eph. I've only loved Xena and I wanted it to be Xena. But I was completely under the control of the goddess. She took me with her and well … you know?..." She paused, her natural shyness causing her to blush and turn her face into her friend's shoulder.

It was an endearing quality and Ephiny hugged her tighter. "Go on!" She said.

"But Eph, I didn't want to do it. Xena is the only one I've ever wanted. I wanted it to be Xena so badly, and I thought of her and called out to her just as… you know?" She blushed again.

Ephiny heard the words strike her in the heart and she ached with the knowledge that she would only have a close friendship with Gabrielle, nothing more, not this time.

She accepted the realization and asked softly, "Then what happened?"

"I don't know exactly. I was well - you know - with Artemis and at that moment, you know - I called to Xena in my mind. And then I was with Xena, back in the cave and we were together - for the first time."

"How did that happen?"
"I'm not really sure. One minute I was with Artemis and the next minute I was with Xena and we were…"

"You mean Xena just appeared?" Ephiny had interrupted her before she had to say the words.

"Yes. It was Xena. Her eyes, her hair, her mouth. Even her smell. I don't know how. But Xena was in my arms."

"Gabrielle, I don't understand this at all. But I think other gods were at work on this."

"No wonder Xena hates them meddling in our affairs. But I plan to find out tonight."

"How?"

"I'm going to the temple and I'll invoke the goddess. I want to know what happened myself."

"Do you want me to go with you?"

"No. This is something I have to do alone. You understand?"

"Of course I understand. Are you feeling better?" Asked her friend.

"Yes. Thanks, Ephiny. You are my dearest sister. You know that, right?" She reached up to the taller woman and kissed her sweetly on the cheek.

Before Ephiny could reply, they were interrupted by a few more well wishers and realized their conversation was coming to an end.

"We can talk more later, Eph."

"I'd like that. I want to hear more about this."

"Alright, let's head back. We have lots to do and time is running out." They walked together back through the camp picking up even more friends along the way.

* * * AMAZON DANCE PARTY ***

The preparations for the festival had been underway for almost three days and the encampment was now gaily decorated. The central lodge, where the main festivities would be held, was strung with garlands, looped with feathers and beads, and illuminated by lighted torches. Braziers were carefully placed throughout the area to insure warmth for the evening and to also define the cooking area.

Amazons rushed about putting the final touches on the Queen's table, while others banked the fires under the large kettles. Outside the lodge, others turned spits of roasting goats and fowl or stirred pots of steaming vegetables. Everything was ready as the afternoon sun began to set.

"Have the Queen's garments been taken to her hut?" Marana, the seamstress, asked the young woman standing by the spit.

"Yes. The Queen is dressing now. But I believe her warrior is questioning the evening attire."

"By the holy goddess! Why is this a surprise?" Marana muttered to herself. She had spent the greater part of three days sewing a splendid tunic for the queen and a matching vest for the warrior. "Why must she always be so difficult? This warrior can be so trying." She spoke to no one in particular as she hurriedly made her way towards the queen's hut.

As she neared it, she heard the queen. "Xena, this is an important celebration. The amazons have worked for three days. We have to be part of it and I have to participate."

"Can't we just go, eat a little, say thank you, and come back here? I could take your mind off this festival, ya know? You've only just begun to find out about those many skills." She raised an eyebrow suggestively at the bard.

Gabrielle hesitated for just a moment. The offer was tempting and she looked forward to learning more about those specific skills. But she knew her responsibilities and replied with a big grin her own eyebrow raised for emphasis. "Tell you what. I'll take you up on your offer. But, after the festival. Now, I want you to put on the clothes that Marana has brought you. She's excellent at her craft and these clothes are beautiful, Xena. She took such care making them."

"I know. I know. But I don't feel like myself in those clothes, Gabrielle. They're not me!"

"I know you don't. But you are the Queen's Champion and I need you to look and dress the part. Especially tonight. Will you do this for me, Xena?"

The warrior was not convinced. She wrinkled her brow to try another angle of persuasion when her partner made a simple plea. "Please, Xena?" She emphasized the word.

Since the beginning of their time together, that word, please, had the power to stop the warrior. And when Gabrielle said it, her voice very soft and her eyes pleading. The warrior knew she would do anything the bard asked.
.
"Yesss." Sighing, she spoke with resignation.

Marana, standing outside, chuckled to herself. It was done. Xena was going to the party in the vestments she made. The mighty warrior had been captured and felled by that simple entreaty. She didn't have to intervene after all. The celebration will be held as planned and the Regent will be relieved to know she thought. She moved back towards the main lodge at a rapid pace. There were still many last minute things to do.


* * * GODDESSES WITH DIFFERING OPINIONS * * *

In the suite of the Goddess of Love, everything was decorated some shade of pink; from the muted magenta marble walls to the hand crafted pale rose tiles on the floor.

The Goddess reclined in the center of her heart shaped bed on bright pink satin sheets. While a handsome young blonde boy toy massaged her shoulders and laid delicate kisses on her neck, a beautiful young woman, scantily dressed in pink bikini, fed the goddess plump grapes, each bite was punctuated with a kiss at the edge of Dite's mouth. The only sounds were giggles and endearments between the three. Their attention was on a big screen TV in the corner of the room showing an Amazon party in full swing. The party featured Gabrielle and Xena who were clearly visible eating, dancing and kissing.

The peace and tranquility of the scene was broken when one very outraged Moon Goddess materialized in the center of the room in shower of silver light. Artemis glanced at the three and then to the show playing on the 52 inch screen and then back to her sister. "Aphrodite, just what did you think you were doing?" She raged at her sister.

Dite looked up, the picture of innocence. "Chill, big sister; I am clueless."

"Well, there's something we can agree on. You know very well what I'm talking about!" Shaking with impotent rage, she pointed at the screen just as Xena leaned over and planted a warm wet kiss on Gabrielle's lips.

"Oh yeah, that. Isn't it just the sweetest? My two favorite babes are like totally in love." She winked at her sister and said, "and at one with the lust." Then she burst into giggles at her own joke.

Sputtering, Artemis vented. "You interfered. You cured Xena… brought her back… when I expressly told you I wanted her gone."

Aphrodite bristled at the accusation. "Whoa, don't get your panties in a twist, Artemissy. I did no such thing!" She took a calming breathe before continuing. "First off you know my only power is Love. I don't do cures. I don't raise the dead… bad for the complexion. And you above all know I give new meaning to creativity when I utter an incantation. So get a grip, already."

Artemis shook her head in disbelief. "You didn't do one of your "inventive" spells to help out my chosen?"

Dite sighed. "No way, Sis. I blessed Gabby at her birth, just like I do every new born mortal. I give each the power to love. That's all. The difference between Gabby and others is that she uses her power."

Disbelief etched on her face, Artemis declared, "I am going to get to the bottom of this. Father will know who is responsible." With that threat reverberating off the walls, Artemis winked out in a hail of silver light.

Dite shrugged and turned back to her companions. Smiling and kissing them, she grasped a hand of each one and pressed their palms to her cheeks. "She means well; but, she sooo doesn't get it. So, where were we?"

* * * AMAZON DANCE PARTY * * *

As twilight approached, the drums beat in a steady distinct rhythm announcing the start of the festival. Bonfires had been lit throughout the camp and small torches illuminated the pathway to the main lodge. Women came from all directions, some in pairs, and some in groups. All were dressed in fine garments with decorative feathers and beads and they laughed joyously as they greeted each other and eagerly moved towards the lodge. Each one wanted to be seated when the Queen was announced.

There was a noticeable excitement in the air and the sweet hum of women's voices spilled out into the evening air. Suddenly a horn blew and the beat of the drums grew louder and more pronounced.

"They're coming." The words buzzing from one end of the lodge to the other, stirred the drummers further. The drumbeat grew louder and faster as the drummers rose together, their feathered headdresses giving the appearance of fiercely beaked hawks with the bodies of women. The drums continued until the leader, as if on cue, gave one resounding thwack to the tight rawhide of the largest drum. All sound stopped as the covered entrance to the lodge was slowly opened by the Queen's honor guard.

The darkening skies outside the lodge silhouetted the Queen's as the Healer and Regent preceded her into the room. Yakut , dressed in light yellow buckskin accented with the black feathers of a raven, walked to the main dais to join her partner, Otere, already seated there. Ephiny, hidden behind a feathered mask signifying her rank, followed. She carried a tall staff in her right hand and with each footstep the base of the staff struck the hard packed earth. The leader of the drummers beat one sharp note with each fall of the staff.

When Ephiny approached the dais, she turned and faced the gathered tribe. For just a moment, she surveyed the women, seeing the expectancy on each face and enjoying the moment. She smiled at them, her face beaming, and said,

"Amazons! Your Queen, Gabrielle!"

A single tune from a fluted instrument softly filled the air as the tent opened wide. The honor guard detail entered and made parallel lines towards the dais. The Queen entered with Xena as a collective intake of breath was heard across the lodge. For weeks later, the amazons would talk about this entrance and the radiant image of their fair Queen standing beside her tall dark warrior. Many of the women, some secretly and some overtly, wished they could trade places with one or the other that night.

Gabrielle's golden hair was braided on each side to hold her long hair back. She was dressed in the softest white doeskin tunic. Marana had burnished a crest on the front and colored it with a shimmering green dye. The green on the crest seemed to reflect the younger woman's eyes, captivating her audience as she walked by.

The Warrior was dressed in black leather pants and boots. She wore a black shirt. Her black hair was tied in a single plait down the middle of her back. Over the shirt, she wore Marana's vest made from the same white doeskin as Gabrielle's. Marana had matched the design of the warrior's breastplate into the vest and intertwined the Queen's crest into the pattern. This crest was dyed a light sky blue to match her eyes.

They walked, hand in hand, between the guards, to their place at the dais. As they approached, Ephiny removed her headdress and placed it under her left arm. Still holding the staff, she saluted the Queen with her right hand over her heart. Then she presented the staff to the Queen.

Gabrielle took the staff from her smiling Regent. She touched her own chest, saluting Ephiny in return. She then bowed to Yakut, who addressed the tribe.

Yakut knew the significance of this moment, and as she stood, privately said a prayer of thanksgiving to her own Goddess of healing and her own patron, Hygieia. She looked over the assembled tribe.

"Amazons, we celebrate tonight and give thanks to the goddess Artemis, Protector of the Amazon nation, for returning Queen Gabrielle and Xena to us. They have been on a perilous journey and it was unclear for a long time if we would succeed in bringing them home. They returned from the land of spirit and Xena was returned to us, fully healed. That is why we are having this celebration of rebirth tonight for indeed, they have been reborn to us. We owe the Goddess a debt that can never be repaid. And we are eternally grateful."

Ephiny and Gabrielle looked at each at the irony of Yakut's words. They knew otherwise. Xena merely smirked, content in the knowledge at her good fortune in waking up in the arms of the Bard. The thought made her eyes twinkle in remembrance.

Yakut ended her prayer and turned to the blond woman. "My Queen, do you wish to say anything?"

Gabrielle stepped forward. "My sisters, we're truly grateful to the Goddess for our safe return home. I believed I had lost Xena forever, but Artemis brought her back to me. I will always remember her favor to me. Now, you've prepared for many days. I think it's time we celebrate. What do you think?"

The roar from the women was all the confirmation she needed. The drums began to beat as if on cue and with that, the sounds of stringed instruments and wind instruments filled the air. Platters of food appeared carried by the younger members of the tribe to each table; the aroma filling the tent and adding to the festive nature of the evening. Wineskins, cooled in a nearby stream, were passed, table to table, as the goblets were filled and quickly emptied.

As the evening wore on, huge platters of food and wine were consumed and the party moved into its next phase. The music grew louder and faster as several couples got up to dance. This seemed to be the provocation needed for the drummers to increase the tempo. When they did, the dancers swayed to the quicker rhythms, enjoying the whistles and appreciative shouts from the seated amazons. More and more couples joined the dancers as inhibitions were released. The dance floor was filled with sweating and laughing women enjoying each other's company and bodies.

Ephiny, still seated, began to move with the music. She looked over and noticed the Queen too was enjoying the music. Gabrielle was tapping her hand and foot in time to the beat of the drums. Xena however continued to drink and seemed to sink lower into her seat with each goblet consumed, her eyes turning to slits.

Feeling the effects of the wine, Ephiny threw caution to the wind. To hell with Xena she thought. She slid her arm over the back of her friend's chair, leaned into her neck and asked in a husky voice, "Do ya want to dance, Gabrielle?" She drew out the words very slowly, the effects of the drink clearly evident.

Gabrielle had been watching the dancers and wanted to join them. But she knew her warrior would never dance with her. Xena claimed she didn't like to dance. Besides, at the rate she was consuming the wine she might end up on the floor before long, she thought.

"You know, I think I'd like that, Ephiny. Let's dance!" She jumped up grabbing Ephiny's hand and leading her to the dance floor. She had to steady her friend a bit as they reached the other dancers.

The warrior heard the interchange and focused on the pair as they got up and moved to the dance floor. She wrapped both hands around the goblet and glared at them over the top of the cup. Her intense gaze of disapproval, which was directed at Ephiny, was ignored. She was acutely aware of the loud whistles that greeted the arrival of the Queen and the Regent on the floor, even as the music grew louder and the drums beat faster.

Ephiny took Gabrielle's hand and began to dance. She held her around the waist and then spun her across the dance floor. They moved together and then back apart, laughing with each other as the drums beat faster and faster and the whistles grew louder. The other dancers appreciated the fact that their Queen was dancing with the Regent, even though one was a bit inebriated.

Ephiny pulled Gabrielle towards her and moved behind her, arms wrapped around the Queen's waist. She swayed provocatively in time with the music, pulling the Queen into a tight embrace and holding her closely against her body.

The crashing sound of a chair being kicked across the room, broke through the sounds of music and laughter.

Everything seemed to shift into slow motion in the tent. The music dimmed, the drums grew faint, all eyes turned, as the towering form of the Warrior uncoiled itself from the dais. Xena stood up, six feet of black leathered menace, scowling at the sight of her Bard dancing with Ephiny with such abandon and enjoyment. Her eyes narrowed as she stepped away from the table towards the curly blonde Amazon. Even though Ephiny had consumed quite a bit of wine, she was still conscious of the tall dark form moving towards them. Somewhere, in the dim recess of her brain, she was fearful.

Marana, seated at the next table, had been enjoying the dance, but for a different reason. She had hoped the Queen would dance at this festival. And with that in mind, she'd cut the doeskin in such a way that it would glide when she walked and ripple when she danced. Her sewing abilities were evident as the white tunic itself danced with the music and the crest sparkled in the firelight. She heard the crashing chair and saw Xena move towards the dancers.

"Oh by the goddess, I knew it was too good to last. This one is going to start trouble" the seamstress thought to herself as she looked towards the honor guard which instantly sobered with the reality that they needed to protect the Queen.

Gabrielle, seeing what was unfolding, placed her hand on Ephiny's, which was still wrapped around her waist, and said, "It's alright, Eph. Just go with this. She's had too much to drink. Don't be afraid. Go and sit down, Eph."

She moved out of Ephiny's grasp and pushed her away easily. The Regent retreated to the group of other dancers.

The warrior moved towards the Bard and stopped a few feet away. All activity in the room seemed suspended in time and space. Gabrielle cocked her head towards the tall woman, her blond braid falling to the side. Then she smiled at her. But still, the warrior didn't move. She just stared at the younger woman even as she debated going after Ephiny.

Then the bard began to move her body in a slow rhythmic manner while keeping eye contact with the brooding woman. The fringe of her doeskin tunic moved gracefully in time to her movements. The crest sparkled in the firelight. The drummers, feeling the young woman's rhythms, met and followed her pace. As the bard increased her movements, her arms and hands twirled in the air, she glided around the warrior. The drum beats followed her. She bent backwards at the waist, and then twirled again.

With each movement and turn, she could feel Xena watching her intently and she liked what she saw.

The warrior stood there, her eyes glazing at the exciting movements of her partner. Her thoughts of Ephiny were fast disappearing. She licked her dry lips. Her eyes grew smoky as the bard continued to dance around her and as the drummers increased the tempo. Sliding in time with the music, Gabrielle moved towards Xena and saw the look of heated desire start to glow in her lover's eyes. She held out her hands and touched her on the chest lightly. Then she moved away again, coiling her body slowly around the tune.

The warrior breathed raggedly watching her as Gabrielle moved back towards her seductively. Again, she touched her on the chest, running her fingertips lightly and sensuously over the warrior's crest.

"Dance with me, Warrior." She whispered the words.

Xena again licked her lips, intoxicated with the sight before her. Her partner's skin glistened from the exertion of the dance, and her hair was slightly damp. And there was no mistaking the look in her lover's eyes. She took Gabrielle's hand from her chest, wrapped it in her own and stepped towards her. Even as she did, the Bard turned slowly, holding onto her hand. She moved her body backwards, molding it against the taller woman and feeling her partner's response. A primal sound rose up from deep within the warrior, and the blond woman, feeling the vibration of the sound against her back, and the warrior's warm breath on her neck, grinned.

"Dance with me, Warrior. Move with me."

She leaned back against her as she said the words, her body pushing against the taller woman's breasts as she danced seductively against her, her body sliding up and down the length of the woman behind her.

The wine had loosened Xena. And feeling the Bard, against her, like this, her arms moved by themselves. She reached around the smaller woman, engulfing her in an embrace, one hand accidentally covering her breast, as they both moved in time with the music. When she felt the breast, harden at the touch, she left her hand there and rubbed slow circles over the swollen nipple. The roar from the other dancers sounded distant and far away.

When Gabrielle realized Xena was actually dancing, and somewhat out of control, she decided to take control herself. She squirmed out of her arms and began a provocative dance inches away from the taller woman, enticing her to follow. The drummers realizing what was happening began to beat a more primal rhythm.

Xena's glazed eyes followed Gabrielle, even as her body uncontrollably followed her partner in the dance moves. She didn't like the sudden distance. She wanted to reach out and touch her, kiss her, hold her tightly. She wanted to take her. She was dimly aware of where they were, but she no longer cared.

"Gab-ri-elle" she hissed slowly, passion rising in her.

Gabrielle continued to dance, moving gracefully and moving sensuously, moving close and moving away. Each time she came near, the warrior reached for her wanting to capture her and hold her.

"Gab-ri-elle! Let's go." Her words were ragged.

Each time, she would dance just out of reach controlling the pace and the agony of her partner. Finally, with a spin and a turn, she pressed against Xena's chest one more time, rocking slowly with the changing beat.

Gabrielle ran her hands over the warrior's body, touching her everywhere as they danced. Her hands traced heated paths across the warrior. Their bodies melded together and she felt the molten fire rise up in both of them. Gabrielle reached up and pulled the taller woman's head towards her and kissed her hard. As she did, her tongue pushed through the warrior's lips and she felt her partner's mouth open. The sound she heard in answer was halted by the fierce pressure of her own lips. Both their tongues danced for supremacy until Gabrielle's claimed her.

Xena did not resist. Her knees grew weak and an uncontrollable heated fire spread throughout her body. Oh by the Gods, what's she doing to me, right here in front of everyone, she thought to herself.

Her entire body began to feel the music as the heat in her body raged. She felt Gabrielle everywhere and she didn't know how long they could dance like this without carrying her from the tent for the night. The hoots and calls of the Amazons did nothing to temper her escalating libido and in fact fueled it. All she wanted to do was pick up the bard and carry her out the door to their hut. But Gabrielle continued to dance with sexual abandon.

"Gab-ri-elle" she hissed again, wrapped within the younger woman's embrace. She was almost out of breath and her eyes were black with desire and she was out of control. They had to leave. Now.

"Gab-ri-elle, let's get out of here!"

At that moment, a retinue of Amazon women came into the tent carrying platters of fruit and honey, interrupting the drummers and musicians and stopping the seductive dance from going any further. Women began moving to their tables to enjoy the sweets and late evening drinks being presented. As they walked off the floor, they whistled and congratulated the dancers, some hugged their leader. A few bolder Amazons asked the queen for the favor of a dance with them later, ignoring the fiery warning in the warrior's eyes.

Xena grabbed Gabrielle by the waist and said heatedly, "Gabrielle, I want to go back to our hut. Now! I can barely stand up." She towered over the young blonde, her blue eyes piercing the younger woman's with the intensity of desire.

Gabrielle, out of breath, leaned against her. She wanted nothing more than to walk out the door with the warrior. She thought of a way to leave gracefully, but knew she had to stay.

"Xena, we can't leave now. I'm the guest of honor."

"Gabrielle, I can't go back there and sit around making nice in the state I'm in." Her glazed eyes continued to bore into her lover, her intention unmistakable.

"I know, Xena. I know." Green eyes looked back deeply into the eyes of her lover, desire still evident in hers as well, even as she remembered her role as Queen of the Amazons. "But we have to stay a bit longer. Let's go back to the table. I'll make it up to you later. I promise." She smiled softly at her lover and squeezed her hand as she led her from the floor.

The warrior just moaned and exhaled the breath she was holding as she slowly and achingly followed the bard back to the table. This was going to be an exhausting remainder of the evening, she thought. I hope I survive it.

* * * QUEEN AND GODDESS TALK IT OUT * * *

The evening was nearing its end and the joy of the women evident in the noise and laughter around the large room. At the head table, the guests of honor sat with some of their closest friends. The queen was ensconced at the center with her regent, Ephiny to her immediate right. Ephiny was in deep conversation with Yakut on her right. To Gabrielle's left sat her champion.

Xena had returned from the dance floor in a restless mood. The dance with Gabrielle had nearly driven her mad with desire and need. All she wanted to do was carry the bard to their hut. But, Gabrielle as always, practiced prudent behavior. She had an image to uphold with the tribe, much to Xena's dismay.

The weapons mistress, Eponin, joined her at the table.

"Hey Xena, feel like a little wager?"

"What do ya have in mind Pony?" She said irritably.

"Oh, just a little port drinking contest." Fighting and drinking were two of Pony's favorite sports, so she grinned easily at Xena.

The warrior liked this woman and decided drinking port with Eponin would pass the time until Gabrielle was ready to go. As she drank, she rested her hand on the Queen's thigh absently stroking it. It's as close as I'm going to get until we return to the hut, she thought.

Gabrielle leaned over close to Xena's ear and whispered, "I have something I need to do. I'll be right back. Don't drink too much more of that, okay," She gestured with her head towards the cup in Xena's hand.

Xena looked at her with unfocused blue eyes the effect of the wine already evident. "We're having a contest, Gabrielle." Her words slurred a bit.

"I know that, but I have plans for you later. Our dance was just the beginning." She purred into Xena's ear.

She chuckled when Xena spit her wine across the table onto Eponin. Winking at her warrior she moved off in the direction of Artemis's temple. The warrior's eyes glazed over with barely concealed desire as she watched Gabrielle exit the hut.

Eponin watched the interaction between the two women, clearly amused. "You got it so bad, warrior" she exclaimed, taunting the tall woman as she tipped her own cup. "Come on, drink up! You're two behind me."

Xena glared at her menacingly. She didn't like the idea of Gabrielle going off by herself. She knew she had promised to treat the bard as an equal partner and she knew she could take care of herself. But she had an odd feeling about where the Bard was headed so she followed her instincts. Besides, she justified to herself, I'm still wound up from that dance. Whatever she's doing if I follow her, I can get her back to the hut quicker. The thoughts about the dance and what she wanted to do with her in the hut made her smile broadly.

"Pony, hold off on this contest will ya? I have to do something. I'll be right back." She stood up, pushing back her chair.

"Warrior, don't tell me you're going to jump my Queen in the bushes. I saw how you danced with her. Take her to your hut by the Goddess." Her laughter echoed all around.

"Shut up you fool. I'll be right back."

"Where ya going, Warrior? Need me to help you? Maybe I could show you how it's done." The taunts continued.

"I sure don't need your help in that area, Pony. I can teach all you Amazons something about that. Now leave me alone! I'll be right back!"

"Promises, promises, promises, big talker." Eponin's laughter followed her out the tent.

As Xena left the main tent, she caught a quick flash of the white tunic in the night light as Gabrielle rounded the trail towards the temple of Artemis. She quickened her pace following at a respectful distance, yet close enough to reach the bard if necessary.

What is she doing… why is she going there, she wondered. Damn, she must be planning to thank Artemis. Dealing with the gods always results in big problems for us. They can never be trusted; especially Artemis. She'd have left me in the underworld for eternity and she'll never forgive me for killing Cyanne. Well, I don't forgive myself either. But she seduced my innocent bard and for that I swear Artemis, you don't want to meet up with me." That last thought jolted her and she hurried closer to the Queen.

She watched as the younger woman entered the Temple. I'll just stay here in the shadows she thought. Gabrielle may need me.

She stood in the darkness next to a large tree and was well concealed. She could easily see into the Temple and she also had a wide view of anyone coming in either direction. I don't know about this, she thought as she folded her arms across her chest and waited.

*********

The stars twinkled brightly in the night sky, like a handful of gems cast across a jewel merchants black silk cloth. Gabrielle breathed in a deep full breath of clean night air as she approached Artemis's temple. In the distance, the sounds of laughter and music died away as she passed through the vestibule.

Inside the temple, it was just as she remembered from her coronation. The Queen laid the flowers she'd brought on the altar. She lit some of the fragrant sage incense sitting in the silver bowl. Taking a seat on the stone bench in front of the altar, she bowed her head and began her prayer of thanksgiving.

"Artemis, you are truly my goddess and protector. Even though you didn't want to, you brought Xena back to me. I can never thank you enough. And yet, that's what I'm here to do."

Not really expecting much, she sat quietly, hoping the goddess would receive her prayer.

On Olympus, Artemis heard Gabrielle's humble prayer. Chagrined, she recalled her talk with her sister and her own promise to "get to the bottom of it".

She'd gone to her father's chambers. Austere and functional, without frills and few decorations, Zeus's Hall was immense and intimidating in its regal splendor. Stately gray marble with silver thunderbolts hung in even rows behind his throne. He sat upon the massive carved ivory seat dispensing justice to various petitioners.

Artemis had stood in the shadows behind a pillar waiting for him to finish. Behind her was the entry to her father's bed chambers and she could hear female giggles through the thick carved door. She mentally rolled her eyes and hoped her mother didn't find out.

As the last supplicant left the great hall, Artemis stepped forward into her father's view. "Hello father. Can you spare a moment?"

She didn't miss his casual glance at the bedroom door, but he gave her a hearty, "Of course; I always have time for my favorite girl."

She told him what had happened with her Amazon queen, the death of her Chosen's lover, Xena, of her seduction of Gabrielle with the intention of allowing her to only "see" Xena momentarily. But at the crucial defining moment, Artemis had felt Gabrielle melt away out of her arms leaving the goddess on the edge of climax and utterly alone in her huge fur covered bed. When she looked into the cave where she'd left her queen's body, she found Xena had replaced her in Gabrielle's arms. And now Xena was returned to Gabrielle completely healed. She couldn't understand it. Someone on Olympus must have intervened. She wanted to know who and why.

She was unprepared for her father's reply. "Artemis, you confuse love and sex. Many believe that I don't love your mother. Nothing could be further from the truth. Of course, I indulge my appetites but that's all it is. My strength comes from my love for Hera and her love for me."

Artemis stood silently for a moment, thinking; and when she spoke, it was one word.

"Gabrielle."

Sighing, Artemis knew what she must now do and in a shimmering of silver light she materialized in front of her chosen. Stunned, Gabrielle dropped to her knees in humble supplication. Her words tumbled over one another as she struggled to express her gratitude.

"Artemis, how can I ever thank you. I will sing your praises in stories to come. I owe you everything… Please, tell me what I can do to thank…"

At this point, Artemis was beyond embarrassed by Gabrielle's heartfelt display. She didn't deserve one word of it. Nor did she deserve the loyalty of this generous young woman. She interrupted the bard in a strong voice.

"Stop!" she commanded, and then she reached down and lifted Gabrielle to her feet.

"Gabrielle, I have a confession to make. I did not cure Xena nor did I bring her back from the underworld. I'm sorry to admit it, but after what she did, I couldn't do that. Even for you, my beloved Chosen. You give me too much credit. I really did nothing."

Gabrielle was shocked. "You did nothing?" She paused slowly digesting the words of the Goddess. "Well, who did it if you didn't?"

"You did." The goddess spoke the words softly.

"Me? How did I do it? I have no godly powers." She was totally confused now.

"Gabrielle, your love for Xena is pure and unconditional. No matter her past, you believe in her. No matter her anger, her stubbornness, her need to control every situation, you still love her without hesitation or reservation."

"I don't understand. How did that heal her?"

"That's just it Gabrielle! Love IS the power to heal." She emphasized the words. "It's the power to rule, the power to use all of my other gifts wisely. Your ability to love unselfishly gives you a power that eclipses all the powers on Olympus."

Artemis smiled sadly at her chosen, "Gabrielle, you have always held the greatest power. The power of Love is the true Power of the Queen."

"I …. I don't know what to say. All…" She stammered, stunned at this news.

"All… all that happened between us? None of that had anything to do with … I mean, you … you let me think…" Her words trailed off. Her emotions raged between anger and realization, even as acceptance and understanding dawned in her.

"Yes, Gabrielle. I could not accept that you would choose Xena, my sworn enemy, over me. I only wanted to insure your devotion to me, your goddess, and to the Amazon nation."

In a voice that brooked no argument, Gabrielle exclaimed, "You betrayed me, Artemis! I honored you as the Patron of the Amazons! I was your Chosen, sworn to you … no… I was pledged to you, by my oath as Queen. I honored that oath!"

"I know, Gabrielle. I know."

"No you don't." She replied, her voice shrill with rage. "You are a goddess. You have powers over all of us. I had no power over you. None!"

The words stung the goddess.

"You misused that power to betray me. You lied to me about returning Xena and you took me by the force of your power. You seduced me, Artemis! You seduced me against my will. By the gods, you knew it was against my will. You told me all your Chosen had sacrificed themselves to you so I went along with it. But I never had a choice, did I? You held all the power over me!"

The goddess was distressed by the outburst from this young woman. No Queen had ever challenged her like this. But she knew the young woman spoke the truth. She had seduced Gabrielle and it had been against her will. None of the other Queens seemed to mind. But this one, this one, who understood Love and the purity of unconditional innocent Love, touched her deeply.

I have to do something. I have to tell her now the Goddess thought.

"Gabrielle, I never meant to take you by force. Yes, I know the gods have power over mortals. But all my Chosen have willingly come to my bed. It was how I honored my Chosen Amazon Queens and they, their protector."

"What are you saying, Artemis?"

"What I'm saying Gabrielle is this. To give yourself in this way, to completely surrender yourself, your body and your soul, in this way; is like the marriage contract among mortals. When a Queen sacrificed her body to me, in my chambers, it was my marriage bond with that Queen. She was forever mine and I was hers. In that bond of love and marriage that you called a seduction, I would always come when she called me. I was pledged to her and she to me."

"Well you could have told me." the Queen replied.

"I know. I could have and I should have."

As she watched the play of emotions across Gabrielle's face, from betrayal and anger to the beginnings of understanding Artemis thought she'd lost any hope of Gabrielle ever wanting to serve her or the Amazons. In the interest of saving face, the goddess decided to make amends in the only way she could by setting Gabrielle free.

"Now it appears that it's me who has betrayed you and it's my profound loss. Yes, I admit I lied to you about Xena. For that I am sorry, very sorry Gabrielle. But what I did to you in my chambers….." The Goddess faltered.

"What Artemis? Please tell me."

"It was my way of honoring you, my Chosen, as I had done with all the others. My error was that I failed to truly know you and the purity and innocence of your love. You are different from all the rest. I am sorry for betraying you, Gabrielle. You are free to go. I release you from your obligations to the Amazons."

Artemis turned away from her former queen expecting to hear the young woman rush out of her temple.

"Artemis?" The question stopped the Goddess.

"Your intentions were good. Misguided, but good. I don't pretend to understand the gods and how they work. Others are better able to do that than me." The young woman paused.

"Do you still want me to be your Queen?"

Disbelieving what she thought she heard; Artemis slowly turned back to the young woman.

"What are you asking, Gabrielle? Why would you wish to serve a goddess, you can not trust? One who betrayed you?"

Looking shyly up at the Amazons' benefactor, Gabrielle gathered her thoughts before she spoke.

"I understand Artemis, but you are the Protector of the Amazons and I am pledged to you by sacred contract, even without the marriage bond." Her smile touched the Goddess.

"And I of all people can understand wanting someone so much that I'd be willing to do anything to make that happen." She smiled again; uncertain that smiling was acceptable behavior in the presence of a goddess. She then decided she'd been in a far more compromised position with this same goddess very recently. That should count for some allowances she thought. And besides, she'd just raged in anger at her without being struck down. So she continued.

"If you'll still have me, I'd like to remain in your service."

Quietly observing this amazing woman, Artemis realized she had again underestimated the depth of Gabrielle's wisdom and the open lovingness within her heart. As the goddess's golden eyes bored into the honest green ones, she came to a decision.

Gods seldom 'asked' anything of humans; they demanded them. But in this case, she felt it was warranted. She owed something to this young woman.

"Gabrielle, the Amazon nation would benefit greatly from your rule, even in abstentia while you travel with your warrior." She paused. "And I would be honored if you would consent to remain as my Chosen. If you will agree, I make you this promise; never again will I deceive you nor use my godly powers to manipulate you. I will honor you just as you honor me."

"What about Xena? I love her." The love for her own warrior was foremost on her mind.

Smiling, the goddess said, "Yes, on that we agree. You do love her."

Artemis paced to the back of the temple, turned, walked back and studied Gabrielle. When she spoke it was very thoughtfully and slowly as though weighing a compromise.

"It would seem that by agreeing to bring you to the Amazon lands, and to participate as your champion, that Xena has made some small restitution. I grant her my protection on Amazon lands."

Dropping to her knees, Gabrielle struck her breast with her closed right fist and bowed her head. "Thank you, Artemis."

Gently laying her hand upon her queen's forehead, the goddess said, "No! It is I who should thank you, Gabrielle." Then in a shower of silver light, she was gone.

Getting slowly to her feet, Gabrielle looked around. The candles on the altar flickered in ceramic bowls on the granite altar painting ethereal images on the walls and on feathered masks hanging there. She was alone.

She could hardly comprehend her good fortune. She would remain Queen of the Amazons, she would be protected by Artemis, and most of all, the goddess had conceded though reluctantly, that Xena was also in her protection.

It was with a lighter heart that she left the building and walked confidently back to the celebration and her lover. As she emerged into the darkness outside the temple she heard something stir to the side and a tall dark form emerged from the shadows. She tensed instinctively, realizing she had not brought any weapons. The form moved into the light and she saw the warrior in front of her.

"Xena? You frightened me. What are you doing here? I thought I left you at the lodge with Pony?"

"You did. But I thought you might need help. You know how I feel about gods."

The warrior had heard the entire conversation between her Bard and the Goddess. When the conversation began, she moved towards the entrance of the temple. She hated Artemis for the price she'd coerced from Gabrielle. She would never forgive her for that. Yet, she heard Artemis admit that she had misused her powers and had in fact seduced Gabrielle.

Oh sure, you put it in the context of all your Queens paying the ultimate sacrifice, she thought. Xena still wasn't convinced of her sincerity.

Yet, Gabrielle had responded well and seemed to have forgiven Artemis. Gabrielle only sees the good in everyone, even the gods, she thought. And Artemis had apologized. A god had apologized to a mortal!

Her remembrance of the conversation between the bard and Goddess was broken by her lover's voice.

"Xena, did you hear us talking?" The question was not unexpected.

"Yesssss." She reluctantly admitted to eavesdropping.

"Did you hear all of the conversation?"

"Yes! I heard it all."

"Then you know I'm alright, don't you?"

The warrior wasn't sure.

Anger choking her voice, Xena spoke with passion. "Gabrielle, she abused her power. She took your innocence and the purity of your love."

"Shh… it's alright Xena. You heard the whole conversation. You know why she did it."

"I know she betrayed you. She had no intention of bringing me back. She deceived you for her own purposes."

"Shhh… It's really alright Xena. I have forgiven her. Her intentions were honorable, she just did it badly. I really am alright."

The inherent goodness in this gentle woman astounded Xena. The warrior had earned her love yet she still didn't feel as though she deserved her. She studied the woman's face in the night light.

Gabrielle touched her arm, any lingering as she saw the warrior's demeanor. "Xena, what's wrong?"

"Nothing." The response was curt.

"Tell me. Tell me what you're thinking. No, not what you're thinking, Xena. That's too easy. Tell me what you're feeling. Tell me what's in your heart. Right now, right this moment in time."

"I don't … I can't …" she stumbled on the words, her mind playing havoc with her emotions.

"You can. Just tell me. Please?" Green eyes looked up into the icy blue ones above her.

"Gabrielle, this is so hard. Why do you push me?"

"Because it will get easier each time. Tell me Xena. I won't hurt you. You are my life. I'm here for you. Please tell me."

There it was again. That word "please". She could never say no to her when she asked that way.

"I…" she began and stopped again. The bard reached up and softly touched her cheek. The warrior looked down into a face filled with love for her and her resolve melted.

"I love you, Gabrielle, with all my heart and soul. I never thought I would love anyone like this. And then you came along." The words poured out as the bard continued to gently stroke her cheek.

"If anything happened to you I couldn't go on living. And it feels like such a weakness to admit that too…" she stopped as tears filled her eyes.

"Xena, you are the heart of my soul. I knew it the day I met you. I know you feel the same way too. It will become easier for you to say these words in time. To open yourself, to open your heart and give it to another, is a treasured gift. It can never be a sign of weakness. It's a sign of great strength and courage. I'm here for you, always.

The warrior looked at the blond woman, her heart breaking open and yet soaring at the words. How did I ever deserve this she thought. The power and love this woman holds over me is like no other I've ever experienced. Maybe she's right. In time it will be easier to tell her the words without stumbling. She says it so beautifully. But it's exactly what I feel.

"Xena?" Gabrielle broke her reverie.

"I love you Gabrielle." It was a simple statement but said from the heart and the power of it washed over the Bard.

"Xena?"

"Yessss?" She dragged out the words as she pulled the bard into an embrace.

"You wanna show me just how much you love me, warrior princess? I have some furs in a hut just waiting to warm us?"

"I don't need furs to warm you or me" the dark woman laughed.

The blond woman twisted out of the embrace and began running towards the hut. "Wanna show me how? Come on Xena, catch me if you can."

The smiling Amazon guards being dismissed for the night were the last thing they saw as the flaps to their tent came down.

THE END

TO BE CONTINUED IN PART 2 - "THE PERSIAN ENCOUNTER"