Subtext ~ Maintext on the subtext and there might be sex.

Copyright ~ Universal and MCA own Xena, Gabrielle, Ephiny, Solari, Eponin, Amarice, and Argo. However I own Lux, Gelidus, Augeus, Seoirse, and Cacus. So don’t take my characters or story line, I'm very protective of them.

Thank You ~ My huge thank you goes to Leslie for her endless grammar checking for me. From the looks of things earlier, this story was chaos but Leslie really brushed it up for me. Thank you so much Leslie!

Series Two-Meeting in the Midst as One Story-Three

~*Part 8*~

"Queen Gabrielle?"

The small woman turned around slowly at hearing her name. She stood in the middle of the second village they'd taken over. "Francis?"

Francis came jogging up with a worried look and a scroll in hand. He passed by three warriors and came up to Gabrielle. "A message has arrived for you." He handed the scroll over.

The three Amazons beside Gabrielle became worried and huddled close.

The Amazon Queen unrolled the scroll. "Xena's messenger?" she questioned while unrolling the scroll.

"Yes," answered Francis.

Gabrielle's breathing slowed as she began to read the familiar handwriting. "Hades," she growled and rolled up the scroll rapidly. "Hercules is after Xena."

"What's the plan?" asked Solari.

The commander stared through the village, she thought. "Alright…" She started walking towards the group of villagers they had captured.

Francis and the Amazons followed behind in a rush.

"We finish the business here with this village," Gabrielle went on, "Then we head to Xena's army."

"All of the army goes back?" questioned Francis.

"No," replied the commander. She stopped walking suddenly. "No actually, I lied." She faced Francis. "We will join back up with Xena, the entire half of this army." She shook her head. "We abandon this mission."

Francis's eyes widened. "What about the rest-"

"I do not care!" yelled Gabrielle. She pointed the scroll at Francis and narrowed her eyes. "Our objective now is to stop Hercules. He purposes a threat to our mission to conqueror Greece." She paused. "And he threatens my partner's life." She lowered the scroll. "We will return to Seoirse and take care of Hercules. We'll continue this mission later. Is this clear?"

"Yes, Queen Gabrielle." Francis nodded briskly.

"Good." Gabrielle turned and walked on. "Now then, I want a treaty setup with this village by this afternoon." She studied the huddled villagers in the center of the tiny town. "After the treaty is done, we will travel." She stopped in her tracks since she was near the villagers. "How many days will it take to meet up with the other half of the army?"

"A day and a half," answer Solari. She peered up to Francis and saw him nod in agreement.

"Fine." The commander leaned against her staff. "Get me a messenger, Francis."

Francis nodded and disappeared.

~*~*~*~

Xena growled lowly after having the rope jerked. "Can't you keep a set pace?" she asked coldly.

Hercules peered back at the woman. "With you as my shadow, no."

"You know Hercules, I won't be staying in the prison that long."

The demi-god laughed quietly and slowed his pace. He walked along side the warlord. "You will be, for life is my guess." He paused. "I highly doubt your army will… wait for you."

The warlord grinned knowingly. "No, they won't."

Hercules studied the woman in wonderment. "And why did you let me capture you?"

"I'm bored," replied the Warrior Princess. Her eyes twinkled at Hercules. "I need to play."

"Hmmm." The demi-god gazed ahead. "I'm sure I'll find out more, later."

"Promise," whispered the warlord.

~*~*~*~

"Let's go, let's go!" yelled Francis. "Move it men!"

Gabrielle leaned towards Solari. "This is why I like Francis." She grinned. "He can do the yelling instead of me."

The second in command chuckled and watched the army preparing to travel in the early afternoon.

"You sure this is a good idea?" Eponin looked to her Queen. "Traveling this late after just taking a village?"

"Eponin," drew out the Queen, "We need to get to Xena." She faced her weapons master. "And that's what we're gonna do."

"Yes," responded Eponin. She sighed at knowing her opinion did not matter this time.

The commander turned around and examined her army. "Francis, are we ready?"

"Pretty much, Queen Gabrielle." Francis strolled up. "Are you?"

"Yes, let's move." The Amazon Queen stepped around Francis. She took a deep breath. "Alright men!" She watched the warriors settle down and she continued. "We're headed to join up with the other half of the army. Hercules is around and we need to… extinguish him so to say. It will take us a day and half to meet with Xena's army so we're getting started now. Let's fall out!" she ordered.

The warriors collected themselves and trekked onto the road headed northwest.

~*Part 9*~

"Perfect," mumbled Seoirse under his breath. "She's headed here now."

"Queen Gabrielle?" questioned the warrior.

"Yes," answered the second in command. He lifted his eyes to his chosen third in command. "Any signs of the scout that left with Xena?"

"None, Seoirse."

"Alright, keep an eye out." Seoirse rolled up the message he just received from Gabrielle. "You have your orders."

The third in command nodded and left.

Seoirse glanced around at the camp and walked back towards his tent. As soon as he entered the third in command came racing in breathing a little heavy.

"The scout is just coming in, Seoirse."

"Already?" The second in command tossed the scroll message to his bed and left the tent. "Lead the way."

The third in command nodded and guided Seoirse towards the western end of camp. He spotted the scouting coming in on horseback at gallop.

"What's your report?" asked Seoirse when the scout came in closer.

"She's taken," stated the scout as he stopped his horse. "Hercules has her," he added while dismounting. "And he's taking her to the Thessaly prison."

"Hades," growled Seoirse. "He actually took her?"

"Yes," answered the scout. "The odd thing is, she seemed to want to be captured."

"What?" Seoirse yelled suddenly. "How do you figure?"

The scout shook his head. "She wasn't fighting at her peak, sir." He put his hands on his hips. "I think she's trying to keep him busy."

The second in command grumbled, "Until Gabrielle returns." He sighed. "Damn, why'd she do that?" His attention went back to the scout. "Alright, follow Hercules and Xena… protect her if it looks like she needs it. Just keep her in your sights. Is this clear?"

"Yes, sir." The scout remounted. "Any message you want me to give to Xena if I can?"

Seoirse shook his head but held his hand up. "Actually, tell her… we're coming for her."

The scout grinned and nodded. He spurred his horse and disappeared into the woods.

~*~*~*~

"The men need a break," snarled Francis.

Gabrielle looked up instantly at her second in command. She stepped closer to his horse. "Francis, this army will stop when I say we can." She narrowed her eyes. "We can go another half of candlemark then we'll break for camp." She paused before growling, "Is that clear?"

Francis sighed and nodded. "As you order, Queen Gabrielle."

"Thank you," Gabrielle replied and strolled away from Francis's horse. She continued leading the army down the road with her Amazons at her side.

And the commander held true to her words when the army turned off the road and settled down for the night. Tomorrow, the Amazon Queen would push the army to finish the distance and meet up with Xena's half of the army.

~*~*~*~

Xena watched Hercules tie her legs together. Her tongue ran along her molars. "Is this… necessary?"

"With you?" The demi-god jerked the vines tight and peered up. "Yes." He stood up and walked near the fire. "Interested in quail?"

"Only your death," whispered the warlord. "Quail sounds great," she said louder.

Hercules narrowed his eyes at the woman before returning his attention to the fire. He turned the quails and cooked them on the other side. "So… want to explain your change in… conquering?"

"I told you."

The man huffed and turned his head. "Just to have people in your… kingdom."

"Just to have people in my kingdom," mocked the warlord. "Exactly." She grinned. "Any other questions?"

"One." Hercules stood and knelt down in front of the woman. "What happened to Draco?"

~*Part 10*~

"Let's move!" order the commander. She watched her men begin the rest of the trek towards Xena's army. Gabrielle sighed and started walking. She went to the front of the army and led the way. Her Amazons, on horseback, came trotting up from behind.

The only thing she thought about during her traveling was her soulmate. Her soulmate and the plans to save her soulmate. And the only thing in her mind was just swamping Hercules with her army and breaking her partner out. She sighed at that thought. Breaking her partner out, now she was becoming a criminal. But this was her soulmate and that's how she justified it. She'd declared a while back that nothing would come between her and Xena. She couldn't let it happen in this reality… nor any others.

So here she was still walking down the seeming endless road, praying she could come up with a plan to saving her partner. In the end, she knew she would but she needed to figure it out and quick.

~*~*~*~

Seoirse tilted his head and narrowed his eyes. He sat on his bed in his tent. He heard the sound again and he lifted his head. "She's here," he whispered to himself. Standing up instantly, Seoirse walked briskly out of the tent and into the late evening. He jogged to the eastern portion of the camp and spotted the glow in the distance. "They're coming!" he yelled.

The third in command came rushing up. "I saw her coming earlier." He looked east and saw the other half of the army nearing. "You think there's enough room in the camp for the rest of the army?"

"Make room," ordered Seoirse. He glimpsed down at the warrior. "What you waiting for, a hand written declaration? Go get the camp in order!"

The third in command laughed quietly and jogged off.

Seoirse watched him go then he glanced ahead. He recognized the three women on horse back along with the woman between the horses walking. He grinned. "Queen Gabrielle!" he called.

The Amazon Queen grinned while marching down the road. "You better have this camp in order, Seoirse!" yelled Gabrielle.

The second in command laughed deeply and walked towards the approaching half of the army. He met halfway with a smile.

Gabrielle stopped and peered back at her half of the army. "Alright men, settle down for the evening. Good job!"

The warriors sluggishly made their way into the camp for the night.

"Dismount," ordered the Queen. She turned her head back to Seoirse as her three Amazons dismounted. "Go on in Solari and Eponin."

The two Amazons nodded and walked their horses into camp.

Amarice shifted and stood near her Queen.

"How are things, Seoirse?"

"Well… here anyway."

"Word from Xena?"

The second in command sighed deeply. "Hercules captured her."

Gabrielle corked an eyebrow. "Unlike Xena."

"Quite," agreed the warrior. "I think she's planning to distract him till you can get to her."

"Your guess is good as mine, Seoirse." Gabrielle leaned against her staff. "And they're headed to Thessaly?"

"Yes, Hercules plans to take her to prison."

"Wonderful," grumbled the commander. "Alright, I'm going to go figure out the plans." She straightened up. "I'll catch up with you later."

Seoirse nodded. He turned and headed back towards camp beside the Queen. "How were the conquerings?"

"Sufficient," answered Gabrielle. "I'd would have like to seen one more town taken before this." She shrugged. "But two will do for now."

The second in command nodded while listening to the clip clop of Amarice's horse. "No problem with the men?"

"None." Gabrielle nodded and smiled faintly. "I was happy with that."

The warrior chuckled and peered across the camp. "Things here are quiet. I think the men are ready to stop Hercules after the last ordeal."

"I wasn't there for that." The commander studied the camp as she went in. "But this will be Hercules's last interference."

"Those are bold words," whispered Seoirse, "Considering who he is."

Gabrielle grinned at her second in command. "No, they're words of truth considering who I am." She lost her grin. "I'll catch up with you at dinner, Seoirse."

"As you wish." Seoirse strolled away but called off, "Good to see you back, Queen Gabrielle."

The commander smiled. "Thank you, Seoirse." She watched the warrior leave then she faced Amarice.

The young Amazon corked an eyebrow.

The Queen chuckled and leaned against her staff. "I may need you to do me a favor, Amarice."

"Oh boy, I don't like the way you say that."

Gabrielle grinned and brought her hand up to her Amazon's back. "Ever consider being a village girl?"

~*Part 11*~

"You can't be serious?"

"I am dead serious, Amarice." The commander folded her arms and averted her weight to her left foot. She studied Amarice. "You look perfect."

"I'm in rags!" yelled the Amazon.

"Part of the role of being incognito."

The Amazon shook her head. "Incog who?" She reached down to adjust her long brown skirt.

Gabrielle sighed and stepped forward. She adjusted Amarice's blue top and pushed down the sleeves. "Please be nice to this outfit, Amarice. My mother made it for me."

The young Amazon huffed and dropped her shoulders. "Do I really have to do this?"

"No," answered Gabrielle. "But I am asking you too… as your friend." She stepped back, in the middle of the tent, and studied Amarice dressed in her old villager clothes. "So?"

Amarice groaned. "Alright, I'll do it."

"Thank you," whispered the commander. She looked up when Solari, Eponin, Francis, and Seoirse came in.

Francis moved and stood beside Amarice. "How do we look?" He grinned.

Amarice groaned.

Solari smirked while standing beside her Queen. "Like a married couple."

Amarice glared.

Francis chuckled.

Gabrielle was silent and studied Francis being dressed in regular villager garb. "Alright, you two do look like a married couple." She folded her arms. "Perfect." She went serious. "Now, you two understand what your mission is in Thessaly? Its not that complicated."

"Yes," replied Francis. "To keep track of Xena in Thessaly."

The Amazon Queen corked an eyebrow.

"And to protect her if need be," added Amarice. "Do you seriously think they might put her to death?"

"Its possible, Amarice." Gabrielle sighed. "And if that's the case then you two need to distract the town."

"How are we gonna distract a city from killing Xena?" asked Amarice a little to suddenly.

The Queen sighed and replied, "Using Hercules." She grinned. "I know Hercules enough to say that if you keep him in the city he'll protect Xena from the town." She paused. "If the city decides to be ruthless and kill Xena without a trial."

Francis nodded slowly. "Good plan."

"And you two have enough money?" asked Seoirse.

"Yes," answered Francis as he patted the side of his belt. "We're covered."

"Alright then." Gabrielle paused and took a deep breath. "You two head out now. Myself and around fifty men will leave here in a few candlemarks."

Amarice furrowed her eyebrows. "How are we going to get Xena back?"

"Attack Hercules," told Eponin. "And break Xena out."

"It's quite simple," added Solari with a grin.

"But it won't work out that way, I can guarantee that," said Gabrielle. "You two get going."

Francis and Amarice nodded and headed out of the tent with the group following behind.

"Hey Queen Gabrielle?"

"Yes Amarice?"

"I know I'm not riding side-saddle."

The Queen laughed deeply and shook her head. "I'll spare you that at least."

"Thanks," chided the young Amazon.

The group went through the camp and neared the two horses at the west end of camp.

Amarice and Francis mounted the horses immediately.

"Make it there in record time," ordered the commander. Gabrielle had a stern expression. "And watch over her."

Amarice saw the desperation in her Queen's eyes. "Don't worry," she said warmly and smiled reassuringly.

Francis turned back in his saddle to see his regular warrior attire and weapons. He shifted back in his saddle. "Don't take long, Queen Gabrielle."

"We won't." Gabrielle grinned. "Are you both set?"

"Yup," replied Amarice. She turned her horse and gave a small tap to her horse's sides. "We'll see you soon."

"Good luck," called the commander then watched the two horses break out into a gallop headed for Thessaly. "Okay, let's get everything else ready." She turned to face Seoirse and her two Amazons.

~*~*~*~

Hercules scanned the area as he saw the sign ahead that said, "Welcome to Thessaly," in Greek of course. "Here we are."

"Wonderful," mumbled Xena. She narrowed her eyes when the outskirts of Thessaly came into view. And there were numerous people even milling around on the outskirts of the city. She sighed. "Good preplanning to conqueror this city later," she muttered under her breath.

The demi-god slowed his pace and came along side Xena.

"So, where to first?" asked the warlord.

"To prison."

"Oh." The Warrior Princess grinned. "I don't get a trial first?"

"You don't deserve one."

"Huh." Xena gave a mocking look. "And you say you fight for the greater good." Her head bobbed. "Fascinating how that changes when it comes to me."

Hercules's jaw clenched and unclenched in controlled anger. "You'll get your trial."

~*~*~*~

"Keep up the pace, men!" yelled the commander. She walked backwards, inspecting her fifty warriors marching behind. "I know you're tired, so am I. But we have to cover this distance quickly."

The men nodded and continued the trek towards Thessaly.

Gabrielle sighed and turned back around. Beside her were Eponin and Solari on horseback. She'd left the rest of the army still in camp with Seoirse in command. She had plans to make camp half way to Thessaly tonight and reach the outskirts of Thessaly tomorrow-late afternoon. And it was already late afternoon. But she had her warlord to free and that's what drove her to keep traveling at such a fast pace.

~*Part 12*~

Amarice shook her head, trying to stay awake. She glanced eastward and saw the sun just peeking over the horizon. "I can't believe this," she mumbled and continued to sway in the saddle.

Francis chuckled and studied the Amazon. "Never ridden this hard huh?"

"No," whispered the Amazon. "I'm exhausted."

"And I thought you were full of spunk."

Amarice chuckled deeply and sat up straight in her saddle. She was extremely saddle sore from riding all yesterday, all night, and still riding. "I'm sassy not spunky."

The warrior laughed at the young woman. "So I'm noticing." He stood up in the stirrups to stretch. "It's been a good ride."

"You make it sound like we're almost in Thessaly."

"We are," stated Francis. He pointed ahead.

Amarice shook her head, squinted, and noticed the sign ahead. "Welcome… to Thessaly. Oh sweet mother of Artemis!" She sighed in relief. "We've made it."

Francis laughed deeply and sat back down in his saddle. "We'll go stable our horses then find Xena and Hercules."

"You know what's odd, Francis?"

"What's that?"

"We haven't seen that scout."

~*~*~*~

The scout narrowed his eyes and strolled past the guards of the jailhouse.

The guards watched the scout warrior walked by and went behind the jailhouse. One guard look to the other, they both shrugged to each other.

The scout put his hand on his sword hilt and walked along side the jailhouse wall. Ahead he noticed the barred window and he grinned. He came up to the window and peeked through. "My liege?"

The warlord stood in the center of the cell, stripped of her armor, in only her dark leathers and jewelry, and manacled at the wrists and ankles. She lifted her head slowly and grinned. "Jake, good to see you."

"How are you, my liege?"

"In one piece." The warlord shrugged. "Why are you here? I've told you not to come near."

"I know, my liege." Jake glanced to his right at hearing a tussle. "Seoirse said we're coming for you. My liege, is there anything you need done?" He noticed the guards coming.

The Warrior Princess grinned. "Tell Queen Gabrielle to demolish this place in payment."

Jake glanced to see the guards coming. "My liege?" He was confused by the message.

"She'll understand, Jake. Go!" she ordered.

The scout nodded. "Protect yourself, my liege."

"Hey you!" yelled one of the guards and came running after the scout.

Jake laughed and broke off running and disappeared.

"Hades," growled a guard and stopped at the barred window. He looked through to Xena. "One of yours, I suspect."

The warlord grinned evilly.

The guard glared and grabbed his friend. "Let's tell the jailer."

The other guard nodded in agreement.

~*~*~*~

Amarice walked out of the stable and slammed into a man. "Wooo." She stepped back and held her hands up.

Francis came out quickly. "Jake?"

The scout grinned and stepped back. "Sorry there." He furrowed his eyebrows. "Wait, you're that Amazon."

"I have a name." The Amazon folded her arms. "Amarice."

"Sorry Amarice." Jake glanced to Francis. "What are you two doing here?"

"To keep tabs on Xena," answered Francis.

Jake nodded and took a deep breath. "Then Queen Gabrielle must be on her way."

"Yes, she's coming with fifty warriors."

The scout grinned. "Even better." He lost his grin. "Xena is in the jailhouse for now. They're planning a trial for her… not that she'll be sentanced." He laughed bitterly. "And the trial starts tomorrow."

"Is anybody invited?"

Jake nodded at Francis's question. "Yes, its public." He folded his arms. "Nice disguises too." He grinned.

Amarice rolled her eyes. "Alright, anyway." She put her hands on her hips. "Where were you headed in such a rush?"

"To Gabrielle. Xena wants me to send a message."

"You saw Xena?" The Amazon's eyes widened.

"Yes."

"Then that means we can go see her, Francis," said Amarice hastily.

"Wait." Jake held his hands up at the woman. "I almost got caught by the guards. If she's caught talking to anybody I'm sure she'll be paying for it." He dropped his hands.

"She'll be beat?" asked the young woman with anger.

Suddenly, a scream rung through air with such pain and fury that the three people cringed at the familiar voice.

~*~*~*~

Another scream erupted from Xena's lips and she dropped her head forward with her eyes tightly closed.

"Who was he?" asked her beater.

The warlord clenched her teeth and fumed with anger.

The man walked around with the whip in his hands. "Each time you don't tell me you get another three lashes." He grinned. "Just tell me who came and visited you."

The Warrior Princess lifted her head a little and smirked. "Kiss my-" She was cut off by the punch to her face.

Hercules cringed even, he stood outside of the cell next to the jailer. "Is this really necessary?" he asked quietly.

"Was it really necessary for her to kill all the people she has?" retorted the jailer hotly.

The demi-god nodded but replied, "Is it necessary to justify violence with violence?"

The jailer peered up to the large man, whom fought evil with fists. "You tell me."

~*~*~*~

Gabrielle held her hand up briefly once she neared the entrance for Thessaly. Her two Amazons stopped walking and stood beside her. "Here's Thessaly."

Solari nodded. "Yup," she stated. "We're here a little earlier than planned."

The commander chuckled and leaned against her staff. "That's one way at looking at it."

Eponin folded her arms. "Are you sure it’s a good idea to have the men camp so near the outskirts of Thessaly?"

"No," whispered the small woman. "But it’s the easiest thing right now."

Solari nodded. "True, besides where the camp is on the least populated side of Thessaly." She shrugged. "We'll be fine."

Down in city it could be seen all the hustling and bustling of the people with the crowd in the market and along the port. Then to the right was the jailhouse, which Gabrielle picked out. She was happy to see the jailhouse there, close to the edge of the city and out of the walls of the city. It actually made her grin considering it would make her plans much easier.

The weapons master brought her attention away from the town at hearing a horse come trotting up the road from the city. "Gabrielle, look."

The Queen glimpsed and noticed it was the scout. "Jake?"

The scout laughed happily, stopped his horse, dismounted and came up to the group. "You're already here?"

"Yes." Gabrielle straightened up. "What's going on?"

Jake held his horse's reins and sighed. "She's in the jailhouse right now. They're going to give her a trial starting tomorrow."

The commander nodded and wrapped her free arm over her stomach. "Have you seen Amarice and Francis?"

"Yes." Jake glanced to the city then back. "They've gotten a room and plan to attend the trial."

"Good," mumbled the Queen. "What does the jailhouse look like?"

"Pretty basic." The scout grinned. "And as you can see, outside of the city walls."

"I know, makes things easier." Gabrielle glanced at her Amazons. "We'll have to explore it tonight."

The two Amazons grinned in agreement.

"And Queen Gabrielle." Jake paused then said, "Xena said, demolish this place for payment."

Gabrielle opened her mouth, ready to reply but there was a scream that erupted. She glimpsed to the jailhouse knowing it came from there. "No… Xena?" She looked up to Jake quickly. "They're beating her?" she asked angrily.

"Yes," whispered the scout.

"No!" The commander broke off into a run towards the city.

"Gabrielle!" yelled Solari. She raced after Gabrielle. "No!"

Eponin and Jake broke off running to stop Gabrielle.

The second in command ran in front of her Queen held her hands up. "Don't do it, Gabrielle."

The small woman's eyes were flashing a dark angry green. "Get out of the way, Solari," she growled.

"No," growled back the Amazon. "I won't let you go bursting into that jailhouse to get yourself killed."

The Queen raised her staff. "Get out of my way."

Eponin came up from behind and grabbed the staff. "Don't do this."

Gabrielle screamed when tears came rolling down her cheeks. "Move, Solari." She lifted her fists.

Xena's scream exploded again from the jailhouse.

The Amazon Queen punched at her Amazon.

Solari ducked.

The weapons master threw the staff at Jake. She grabbed Gabrielle from behind and restrained her. "No, Gabrielle."

The commander yelled and struggled from her Amazon's grasp. "They're beating her!"

"Better beaten than dead," said Solari in desperation.

"No!" The Queen broke free from Eponin and kicked at Solari.

The second in command ducked again then slammed her body into Gabrielle's. She wrapped her arms tightly around the small woman and pinned Gabrielle's arms against her sides.

"Solari!" yelled the Queen. She struggled but soon her tears took stronger control. "Please," she pleaded desperately. "They're beating her," she whispered painfully.

"She can handle it," reassured Solari.

"No," Gabrielle whimpered and stopped struggling since she was crying to hard. "We've have to save her," she whispered. "Please." She cried even harder.

Solari moved her arms and hugged her Queen. She drew Gabrielle in close and held tightly. "We'll get her out, Gabrielle." She rocked her body with Gabrielle's "Promise." Her eyes lifted to Eponin. Her eyes flashed with anger for what has happened to the Queen.

Eponin folded her arms and nodded briskly. She didn't like seeing her Queen in pain either. There would be a heavy price to be paid for this.

~*~*~*~

Hercules stood still and listened for the door to close and lock. He stared at Xena's back, her figure slumped faintly but still containing pride.

"What do you want, Hercules?" asked the warlord. She lifted her head and stared through the barred window. The sun was preparing to set soon.

The demi-god walked around and faced the woman. "And why didn't you tell who that was instead of being lashed numerous times?" He folded his arms.

"I enjoy pain," responded Xena sarcastically with a smirk.

The large man said nothing back and studied the warlord's beaten, bruised, cut, and bleeding body. "No, you enjoy inflicting pain," he whispered.

"None the less, I enjoy pain," declared the Warrior Princess. Her vision blurred momentarily then stilled once more. "So I get my trial tomorrow huh?"

"Yes."

"That should be interesting," joked Xena. She closed her eyes with a grin on her lips. She was in unbearable pain but she would still grin at knowing her soulmate wasn't to far. Despite this wasn't the diversion she'd had in mind.

Hercules watched the warlord's cold face and tried to read her. "What's happened in your past that's made you this way?"

"Rage," uttered the warlord.

The demi-god lowered his arms and walked around Xena's right side. He came around and glanced at her back. He counted twenty-five whip marks on her back. He furrowed his eyebrows, reached up, and brushed some of Xena's hair. "Gabrielle, Amazon Queen," he read the tattoo. He pulled his hand away. "Who is she?"

The warlord smirked and kept her eyes close. "My savior and your demise."

"The Warrior Princess talking in riddles, how unique."

Xena laughed half heartily. "It soon won't be a riddle." She sucked in a breath, for the pain in her ribs suddenly came to life from the earlier laugh.

Hercules narrowed his eyes, faced the jail door, the guard opened the door, and he left.

~*~*~*~

Gabrielle stared at the dagger in the candlelight.

It flashed back at her. It was Xena's special dagger that she'd told Gabrielle about for 'emergency' use. The dagger was silver with an ivy design down the blade. And the warlord mentioned it had been her brother's dagger numerous years back.

Now it was Gabrielle's dagger. So she knelt down while standing next to the bed. She sheathed it down in her right boot. Standing back up, she saw Lux come in.

"Hey, little one…. I heard." Lux came into the tent slowly. "How are you doing?"

The commander turned around and faced her friend. "I'm okay, Lux." She folded her arms. "Thank you for coming." She shook her head. "I know this fast pace stuff is hard on you."

The cook chuckled and shrugged. "A cook needs to go to feed the men." He went serious. "Is there anything I can do for you?"

Gabrielle shook her head. "I'm fine, thank you though."

The older man sighed sadly. He came closer and without asking, pulled Gabrielle in for a strong hug.

The small woman smiled faintly and hugged her friend back tightly. "Thank you," she whispered.

Lux smiled warmly when he pulled back. "Anytime little one, figured you needed one."

"Yeah," whispered the commander. "Alright, I need to go talk with my Amazons."

The cook nodded and moved out of the way. He followed Gabrielle out of the tent.

The small woman flashed a forced smile to Lux then headed to her Amazon's tent. She went inside and found her two Amazons. "Come with me." The Queen ducked out of the tent with her Amazons following behind like two ducklings. She headed back to her hut and went inside.

Solari and Eponin folded arms and corked eyebrows at their Queen.

The Queen began pacing back and forth in her tent. "Any suggestions on getting Xena out?"

Solari and Eponin glanced at each in question.

The second in command cleared her throat and glimpsed back at the commander. "Um, Gabrielle?"

The Queen stopped pacing and faced her Amazons. "Go ahead."

"Well, Ep and I were thinking." She folded her arms. "We should go down to the prison tonight, check out the area."

Gabrielle nodded for the rest.

Solari placed her hands on her hips. "Then we'll have an idea of what the conditions are like down there. Then tomorrow night we should attack the prison and break Xena out. We can use the night as an element of surprise."

The small woman nodded as her eyes lowered. She considered the plan. "I like the idea of checking the area out." She sighed and lifted her eyes. "However, I don't like the idea of attacking at night."

"But Gabrielle-"

"No," cut off Gabrielle. "The night would hurt us more than help us. None of the men will know who the Hades they're fighting." She paused. "Besides, I think it would be better to our benefit to attack when they're taking Xena back to prison after the trial." She folded her arms. "That's a better element of surprise."

The two Amazons glimpsed at each other then returned their attention to the Queen.

"Alright then," declared Gabrielle, "Tonight we'll visit the prison and go from there."

~*~*~*~

The commander tied her cloak on then grabbed her staff. She left her tent and came near her Amazons. "Are we ready?"

The two Amazons turned around after putting their cloaks on. "Yup," answered Solari.

"Let's go," ordered the Queen. She headed down the road, out of the camp, and towards the town.

Soon the three women were in Thessaly and scanning around. They noticed few people were up and about but still a fair amount.

"Let's find the court house," whispered Gabrielle.

Solari and Eponin nodded in agreement.

The commander looked to her right and wasn't watching where she was gone. Suddenly, she slammed into a large body. She stumbled back and looked up. "Sorry," she said without realizing whom it was at first.

"It's alright," replied the man.

Solari and Eponin's eyes widened as their hands were about to move to their swords. But they stopped knowing better.

Gabrielle peered up and her face dropped. "You're… Hercules?"

The large man folded his arms and nodded. "Yes." His eyes flickered back at the two Amazons then back at Gabrielle. "And you are?"

The commander smiled with hidden anger. "Ephiny."

"Nice to meet you, Ephiny." Hercules held his hand out.

The Queen was hesitant but took the man's large hand.

They shook.

The small woman pulled her hand back like it stung and she leaned against her staff. Her right hand was holding tight to the staff.

"So, who are your friends?"

Gabrielle glanced back. "Solari and Eponin." She shrugged. "We heard about the Warrior Princess being captured." She looked at Hercules. "We wanted to see the murderer's trial." She tilted her head. "Do you happen to know where the trial is being held?"

"Of course, I'll show you."

"Wonderful."

The demi-god smiled briefly then turned and began walking.

The Queen glanced sidelong at her Amazons. "Hide your feathers," she uttered in command. She walked briskly and caught up to Hercules.

The Amazons tugged their cloaks closer then followed behind.

"So, where are you three from?"

Gabrielle stared ahead while replying, "Potidaea." She furrowed her eyebrows. "Now, how'd Thessaly get a hold of Xena? We heard you brought her in."

"Yes," replied the demi-god. He nodded and added, "I captured Xena in eastern Greece."

The small woman nodded and glanced around the city. "And Thessaly isn't concerned that her army will come after her?"

"I doubt it," answered Hercules. He took a deep breath. "The last second in command she had almost slit her throat." He chuckled a little. "She can't seem to keep a handle on her men."

"Interesting," murmured the commander. "Well, I'd hope they'd still at least have the prison heavily guarded."

"They do, thankfully." The demi-god came to a stop in front of a building. "Better to be safe then sorry." He held his hand out. "This is where the trial will start tomorrow."

"And anybody is invited right?"

"Yes," answered the man. He lowered his hand. "After its over with, I'll be leaving."

Gabrielle leaned against her staff. "Thank you very much."

"Where is the prison?" asked Solari. She came next to her Queen. "I'm curious about that."

Eponin chuckled and neared. "I'd be more curious to see the harlot in her cell."

"Follow me." Hercules turned and led the way. He went outside of the city walls and into barren open area of the prison. He walked up the steps, past the guards, and into the prison.

The Amazon Queen was starting to breathe a little heavy but managed to control her anger.

The demi-gold led the women through the dark torch lit prison that was packed with guards. He came near the end of the prison and faced one of the last cells. "Here she is."

Xena had been moved from her position from earlier. Now she was sitting on the floor, her back against the wall, her hands shackled together, and her legs manacled to the floor. She lifted her head with dark eyes when she heard the new comers.

Gabrielle locked eyes with her soulmate. She almost broke in anger but Solari's soft hand on her shoulder just helped her control everything.

Eponin glanced up. "They've beaten her?"

"Sadly enough, yes." Hercules studied the bloody wounded warlord. "One of her men found her and the jailer tried to beat the information out of her." He sighed. "Although I think he was doing it out of pleasure more than anything else."

The weapons master nodded. "So, her army is near?"

Gabrielle was still staring at her soulmate in the cell. Her eyes held promise of freedom and of revenge.

The warlord nodded very faintly in approval.

"We don't know, honestly," revealed Hercules.

Eponin nodded. "Let's hope her army hasn't found her."

Hercules said nothing as he stared at the beaten Warrior Princess in the cell. Even his eyes were tainted with sorrow and he couldn't understand that.

"Well," whispered Gabrielle, "I'm sure there would be quite the price for this if her army found her."

The demi-god nodded. "There would be." He glanced at the three women. "Seen enough?"

"Yes," replied Gabrielle. "I've seen all I've needed." She peered up at the man. "Lead the way out."

"Of course." Hercules side stepped the women and headed back down the prison.

Gabrielle signaled her Amazons to go. She glanced back to her soulmate. "You'll be out of here tomorrow, Xena," she whispered. "I promise."

Xena smiled a little with evilness. "I know, be careful."

The commander nodded. "Hang in there, love." She gave a sad smile and jogged down the prison hall.

The warlord sucked in a breath from the pain in her ribs. She dropped her head against the cold stone wall.

Hercules came down the steps outside of the prison and turned around at the women. "Well ladies, I have to be off." He smiled. "Have a good night."

"We will," replied Gabrielle. "Thank you for your help."

The demi-god nodded. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight," replied the three women and they watched him head back into the city.

Gabrielle sighed in relief. "Let's go." She began walking back into the city. "Let's go find Amarice and Francis."

Solari and Eponin nodded together.

"I'd think they'd be in a tavern," said Eponin.

"They are," replied Gabrielle. "Jake told me they're staying at the Sea Side Tavern." She grinned. "Which means its near the port."

The Amazons chuckled and followed along side. They headed for the port in searched of the Sea Side Tavern of Thessaly.

Soon the group sought out the Sea Side Tavern and entered inside. They scanned the inside, looking for Amarice and Francis, but noticed at one table two people waving.

"That might be them." Solari pointed.

Gabrielle glanced that way. "Yup." She headed for the table. "Evening, can we join you?"

Amarice laughed deeply and nodded. "Definitely, my Queen."

The three women sat around the table with Francis and Amarice.

"So, how goes the village life?" asked the commander with a smirk.

"Ha, ha," replied Amarice. She sighed and shook her head. "I take it you heard about the trial?"

"Yes."

Francis cut in now. "Amarice and I are planning to go."

Gabrielle nodded. "Good idea." She rested back in her seat. "Xena has a snowball's chance in Tartarus of even getting a life sentence."

"What are the plans on setting her free?" asked Amarice quietly.

The Queen sighed and laced her hands together in her lap. "Tomorrow at the end of the trial, we'll attack and set her free." She paused. "I want to get a hold of Xena before they put her back in the cell. It'll be easier that way."

Francis nodded in agreement. "So, Amarice and I will follow behind at the end of the trial."

"Yes." Gabrielle thought for a moment. "Soon as we get Xena, we're racing out of here before the Thessaly militia doesn't have time to stop us." She grinned. "Thessaly will pay later when we come to conquer her."

The people around the table chuckled despite they knew they should not have.

"We are having more detailed plans then that, correct?" asked Francis.

"Yes, I'll take care of that tonight." The commander crossed her ankles. "Just be prepared to head out. And we do whatever it takes to get Xena back."

The others around the table nodded.

"Good." Gabrielle glanced at Solari and Eponin. "We should head back."

"Yeah," agreed the second in command. She stood up with Eponin. "Amarice, enjoy the village life."

The young sassy Amazon growled. "Wait till I get my feathers back on."

Solari snickered.

The commander stood up with her staff. "Alright kids." She grinned at Solari and Amarice. "Be ready for tomorrow, Francis and Amarice."

"We will, with feathers flying," replied Amarice.

"And leathers," added the warrior. He grinned and relaxed back in his seat. "Goodbye.

"Night you two." Gabrielle strolled off.

Solari and the weapons master gave a wave then headed off.

~*Part 13*~

Amarice stepped in followed by Francis. She scanned the inside of the courthouse and then walked down the rows of benches. She went down one row and began to sit while brushing her skirt forward.

Francis sat down next to her. He studied the front and noticed the guards around. He also noted the courthouse filling with numerous people. All of the people had cold deathly expressions.

Now the judge came out and took a seat at the head of the bench. Next followed out the jury and who sat in front of the audience.

Next a side door opened and four guards came in, followed by a fifth guard holding chains, whom led in Xena. Four more guards followed in after Xena.

Xena was led up to sit at a booth in front of the people. Her chains were locked to the floor so she wouldn't get loose. Soon four guards were surrounding her while the others spread out in the courthouse.

The warlord scanned the people and her eyes came to rest on Amarice and Francis. "Gabrielle," she muttered in anger.

Amarice smiled shyly at the Warrior Princess.

Xena narrowed her eyes and looked away.

The Amazon leaned towards Francis. "I think we're gonna hear about this later."

"Uh huh." Francis grinned. "But be glad you're not apart of the army."

"You have a point there," whispered back Amarice. She studied Xena's body and took in all the marks of being beaten. "They really beat her hard."

"They did," said Francis sadly. "She doesn't even notice it though."

Amarice nodded and sat up straight.

~*~*~*~

"Queen Gabrielle, they've taken Xena into the courthouse."

The Queen nodded at Jake. "Thank you, get back there and see when they take her back to the jailhouse."

Jake nodded and left the commander's tent. He headed back to his post that overlooked the city.

Gabrielle turned around. "Solari, Eponin, time to carry the plans out."

The Amazons grinned and left the tent with their Queen.

~*~*~*~

Francis's eyes flickered to the right.

Hercules sat in the front row, watching the trial. He had a stoic expression and kept his eyes on Xena.

The warlord had a hidden grin in her expression. She knew her future while the rest of these villagers didn't. So that left her sitting in her seat with her back straight and pride in her stature.

The trial had been going on for a candlemark so far. Xena's defendant had been appointed, not that he was good but he was there. And naturally the trial was falling in favor of the city's verdict. The jury was not about to set Xena free nor leave her alive. The trial itself dragged on for three solid candlemarks before it was adjourned till tomorrow. Tomorrow, the judged decided, would be the day the jury would give their sentence.

Now, Xena was being unchained from the floor as her guards came around.

Francis lowered his head and nudged Amarice.

The Amazon nodded and stood with the warrior. She left the courthouse with Francis.

They headed directly back to their room in the tavern. They had plans to change into normal clothes and prepare for the break out.

~*~*~*~

Jake studied the courthouse from afar on the top of the ledge. He spotted Francis and Amarice leaving and he widened his eyes. "It's over." He stood up and broke off into a run. He came into the camp and found Gabrielle. "Queen Gabrielle!"

The commander whirled around. "Are they done?"

"Yes," replied Jake. He took a deep breath. "Amarice and Francis just left the courthouse at a jog."

"Alright, go get ready." Gabrielle faced her men. "Is everything ready?" she requested in a loud voice.

Eponin and Solari joined Gabrielle beside her. They drew swords.

The fifty warriors all came together in rows in compliment to Gabrielle's orders.

"Now, follow my orders preciously," yelled Gabrielle, "When I give the signal we are to rush the guards, free Xena, then burn the jailhouse to keep the city busy. Is this clear?"

The warriors nodded.

"Then light the torches." The Amazon Queen watched numerous torches come to life. "One other thing." She paused and narrowed her eyes. "Kill if you need to. I want Xena back here," she said in conviction. "Let's move!" She turned around and took Argo's reins from Solari. "Thanks Solari." She handed Eponin her staff

"No problem." The Amazon helped hoist the Queen up into the saddle.

Gabrielle settled into the saddle, grabbed the reins, and took her staff. She stayed high on the horse and watched her warriors march ahead. "Come on." She kicked her horse's sides into a trot.

The weapons master and Solari walked quickly behind the horse.

The warriors followed behind with the unsheathing of swords.

~*~*~*~

Xena glanced around the city. She was led out of the city walls. The prison was just ahead. She scanned around the area, expecting. She was surrounded by fifteen guards and knew there were twenty more in the jailhouse.

Her chain was jerked and it sent a shot of pain down her wrist from being so raw. She growled lowly but kept her pace up. She was in complete pain but was ignoring it for now. That and she hadn't eaten in a few days nor slept, her body's energy level was lowering by the candlemarks.

~*~*~*~

Gabrielle sat high up on Argo, gazing down at the jailhouse. Her eyes narrowed when she saw her soulmate appear and being led by all the guards. She held up her free hand momentarily then dropped it.

All the warriors broke out in a scream and went charging down the hill towards the jailhouse.

The commander let her men flood by. She peered down at her Amazons. "Ready?"

"Definitely," replied Solari. She broke into a run down the hill with Eponin.

The Queen kicked her horse into a gallop for the prison. She held tightly with her one hand, her adrenaline peaking from the excitement of everything, and her right hand grasped her staff tightly.

The fifty warriors crashed into the guards all fighting.

The guards from the jailhouse came rushing out with swords. They came after Xena.

The jailer came out and stood on the top of the steps. "Stop them! Get Xena in the jailhouse now!" he yelled.

The Amazon Queen was on the edge of the fighting, scanning the scene. She saw her soulmate on the other side and close to the prison. She knew the guards were going to get Xena into the jailhouse and hide in there. Since the army wouldn't be able to attack the prison with Xena in it. "Stop them before they get her in the jail!" she ordered. She quickly dismounted with her staff. "Go girl!"

The mare whined and trotted off out of the way.

"Solari, Eponin!"

The Amazons reappeared beside their Queen with swords.

"We need to stop them from taking Xena into the jailhouse."

Solari nodded and grabbed her Queen's wrists. "Follow me." She led the way.

Amarice and Francis came galloping, on horseback, out of the city walls with their weapons. They scanned the scene and saw what was happening.

Francis pointed his sword at the guards with Xena. "They're trying to get her in the jailhouse."

"Then let's stop them," declared Amarice as she charged into the mass of fighting.

Francis shook his head with a laugh. He kicked his horse and spun his sword in the air with a war cry.

The warlord kicked one guard, taking him down. But before she could fight more, she was slammed over the head with a sword hilt. She groaned and fell to her knees.

A guard grabbed her under the arms and started dragging her up the steps of the jailhouse.

"Hurry up hurry up!" barked the jailer. "Get her in here, they won't attack then!"

The guards were being pressed back into the jailhouse as the fifty warriors pressed on.

"Stop them!" yelled Gabrielle as she fought off a guard.

Solari and Eponin pushed through the fight with their Queen behind. They came near the steps and saw them just dragging an unconcious Xena in. "No!" yelled Solari, whom was fighting off a guard.

"Get Xena!" screamed Gabrielle. "No!" She saw them getting ready to close the large metal door. "No!" she screamed with all her rage.

Francis came galloping through the fighting and jumped off his horse. He landed on the empty steps. He raced up them with his sword out while seeing the door closing. He put all his effort in and rammed his sword forward at the guard closing the door. His sword slipped between the door and cut through the guard's stomach. He grabbed the door and tore it open.

"Get her in the cell!" ordered the jailer. He ran down the hall of the jail with his guards dragging Xena down the hall.

One guard sprinted ahead and opened the cell.

The two guards dragging the warlord, threw her in.

"Lock it, lock it." The jailer looked down the corridor to see a warrior coming down. "Stop him!"

A guard ran past with his sword.

"What are we going to do?" asked a guard in fear.

"Get the door closed!" ordered the jailer.

The two guards raced down the hall to try and get the door closed.

Francis kicked a guard down the steps and turned to Gabrielle. "Queen Gabrielle, come on!"

The commander came up with Eponin and Solari. "We need to get Xena out."

"Don't worry, I have men going into the prison to kill off the guards inside."

"Good." Gabrielle turned around and studied her men. They were over throwing the guards and there were only a few remaining. "Take the last of the guards!" she ordered. "Then protect the jail if the militia come!" She faced Francis. "Lead the way."

Francis nodded and went into the jail. He raced down the hall with Gabrielle behind and the Amazons. He saw ahead fights going on between the guards and the warriors. He came right up and rammed his sword into the guard's sides taking them all out. "Follow me men!"

Gabrielle stepped past the dead bodies and came near Xena's cell. She saw her soulmate out cold on the floor still shackled. She grabbed the bars and shook them. "Where are the keys?" she yelled. "Get me the damn keys!" she growled loudly.

One of the warriors rushed off.

"The jailer has them!" told Francis. "Find him!"

"Xena… Xena?" called Gabrielle. She was gripping the bars tightly. "Come on, Xena." She looked down the hall. "Where the Hades are the keys!?"

Two warriors came racing down the hall with a rattling of keys. "We got them!" hollered a warrior. He threw them at Francis.

"Open it open it," said Gabrielle hotly.

Francis worked frantically to open the door. He kept switching around with the keys trying to find the right one. "Shit," he growled. He tried another and turned the key. He grabbed a bar and pushed the door open.

Gabrielle rushed in and knelt down in front of Xena. She grabbed her lover's face and lifted her head up. "Xena, come on. Wake up." She brushed back the bloody bangs. "Come on, I'm here now." She turned her head sidelong. "Ep and Solari, help me."

The Amazons came in and knelt down beside her Queen.

"Come on, Xena" whispered the small woman. "I need you," her eyes began to sting. She leaned in a kissed her warlord gently and tasted the blood. She pulled back in hopes that did something.

The warlord groaned and opened her unfocused eyes. "Gabrielle?"

The small woman smiled with sorrow. "Welcome back, love." She kissed her lover's forehead despite the blood. "Let's get you out of here." She glanced at her Amazons. "Help me get her up."

Solari and Eponin grasped Xena's arms and began to haul her up to her feet.

"Francis?" The commander turned around. "The keys."

Francis tossed the keys.

Gabrielle took them and knelt down. She tried them and finally succeeded in getting the shackles off Xena's legs. Standing back up, she grabbed the manacles and took them off. Taking them she threw them to the floor. Turning back around, she looked at Francis and the two warriors. "Find me Xena's weapons and armor then get out of here."

Francis and the warriors nodded. They disappeared down the hall on their mission.

"Alright." Gabrielle grabbed her lover's right arm and brought it around her shoulder. "Let's get out of here." She wrapped her right arm around her soulmate's waist. She glanced to Eponin. "You got her?"

The weapons master nodded. "Yup."

The Queen nodded and head out of the cell with Solari in the lead.

Outside, the army had taken control of the jailhouse. All the guards dead along with the jailer and they surrounded the prison. Amarice stood on the steps watching over things. She looked to the city wall and spotted the Thessaly militia coming. "Oh shit!" She looked through the door. "The militia is coming!" she screamed. "Hurry up, Gabrielle!" Turning back around. "The militia are coming, slow them down!" she ordered the men.

The warriors all faced the militia and prepared for the next fight.

The leader of the militia glanced at the men. "Stop them! Don't let them free the warlord! Attack!"

The militia broke up and charged the warriors.

Francis came rushing out, Xena's possessions in hand, with the two warriors. "Stop the militia!" He looked around for Xena's horse and spotted the mare. He ran over to the horse and put the entire armor and weapons on Argo's back. He took the reins and led the mare to the steps of the jailhouse.

Solari came out followed by Eponin and Gabrielle supporting a beaten hurt warlord.

"Gabrielle." Francis waved and stood beside Argo.

"Let's get her on Argo," said Gabrielle. She went down the steps carefully and neared Argo.

Francis, Eponin, Solari, and Gabrielle all helped Xena get on the horse.

Gabrielle then got on the mare in front of Xena. She took the reins and her staff from Solari. "Xena, hold on tight huh?"

The Warrior Princess leaned against her soulmate and encircled Gabrielle's waist. "Burn it, Gabrielle."

The commander nodded. "Men, burn the jailhouse!"

The warriors with torches started throwing their torches at the jailhouse. And instantly the jailhouse was ablaze.

"Retreat, retreat!" yelled Gabrielle. She raised her staff. "Retreat!"

The fifty warriors struck down their opponents then fled back down the road. Some of the militia raced after them but the leader of the militia screamed for them to return and stop the fire.

The Amazon Queen glanced down at her Amazons. "Get out of here."

Eponin and Solari nodded and ran off.

Gabrielle spurred Argo into a gallop for the road. She glanced back to see the militia busy trying to stop the fire. She grinned. "Argo, get us out of here."

The mare whined while galloping down the road. She came over the hill but came to a breaking halt at seeing the person in the middle of the road.

"Hercules," whispered the commander. She stared wide eyed and shaking her head.

The demi-god stepped forward. "You must be Gabrielle."

The Amazon Queen dismounted with her staff raised. "Yes," she said hotly. "Don't stop me."

"I figured as much considering those women were Amazons with you. Put two and two together last night with Xena's tattoo." He lifted his hands. "I can't let you escape with her."

"And I can't let you take her back," growled Gabrielle as she circled the much larger opponent.

Xena turned in her saddle, she grabbed her sword hilt, and unsheathed it. She slowly dismounted, sucked in a breath against the pain, and stepped up to Hercules. "Try me Hercules… you really want me."

"Xena you're-"

"Get back, Gabrielle," growled the warlord. She spun her sword and bent her knees, preparing to fight. "Get on the horse, Gabrielle." Her eyes locked on Hercules.

The small woman neared the mare but never mounted. She watched Hercules and Xena circle each other waiting for the other to make a move.

Hercules lunged forward first.

Xena jumped out of the way. And switched sides and she attacked this time.

The demi-god fought back and was easily taking the upper hand.

The warlord felt her strength fade fast from all the abuse her body had been taking the past days.

"Xena, you can't win."

The Warrior Princess growled and slammed her sword against the man's gauntlet. "But I can slow you down." The last thing she was about to let happen was have Gabrielle be taken.

Gabrielle saw the bad odds. She dropped her staff against Argo and knelt down. Her fingers curled around the dagger's handle and she stood back up with the pin of the dagger being extracted. Her eyes went cold and dark while she stared at the man's back. Hercules had brought all of this on her and Xena. There was a price to pay. Yes a price for toying with the soulmates, the soulmates of the greater good. The price must be paid in full.

Hercules grabbed Xena's sword and jerked it free. He jumped back giving it a good twirl. He pointed it at Xena with a grin. "Give up."

"That's not an option." The warlord kicked.

Hercules ducked then kicked back sending Xena on her back.

The Warrior Princess moved quickly put stopped in mid motion when her own sword tip pressed into her neck. Her broken ribs were screaming in pain and her body was almost drained.

"Don't make me do this," said Hercules.

"Gabrielle, get on Argo," yelled the warlord. Her eyes flickered back to Hercules. "Now or never, Hercules."

The demi-god shook his head faintly and raised the sword high up. He was giving the warlord a chance.

"No!" screamed Gabrielle. She raced forward with her dagger.

Hercules started bringing the sword down.

Gabrielle came up behind Hercules, jumping on his back, and she brought the dagger around.

The dagger sliced through Hercules's chest and into his heart.

The world stopped.

The world came back to life in the fastest rush ever.

Gabrielle jammed the dagger in tighter with her eyes tight for she even felt the pain. She jerked the dagger out and fell to her feet.

Hercules dropped the sword, crashed to his knees, then on his side. He closed his eyes and rolled onto his back as the blood oozed out of his chest and his yellow shirt soaked it.

Gabrielle stared at the bloody dagger in her hands. She started breathing heavily and her eyes shifted to Hercules to see his chest not rising. The panic set in.

Suddenly a cloud covered the sun and it's shadow fell over Gabrielle and Xena but never touched Hercules's dead body.

Xena stared at the scene of her soulmate holding the bloody dagger. "Gabrielle?" she whispered with a cracked voice.

The small woman started crying and wiping the blood away. "We gotta get out of here, Xena." She frantically tried to wipe the blood off. "Get up, let's go," she said with fear and shaky voice. "We gotta get out of here… we gotta get out of here… have to run," she kept mumbling between her sobs.

The warlord stood and took the dagger. "Get on Argo." She led her partner to the horse and helped her up.

"We have to run," whispered the small woman as she started shaking in the saddle. She watched Xena strap her staff against the saddle.

The warlord hauled herself, with great pain, into the saddle. She took the reins and kicked Argo into a gallop.

The soulmates left the Legendary Hercules dead in the dirt of the road. He'd be mourned for by all even by Gabrielle.

Xena needed to make it to the army before she collapsed. Ahead she saw the signs of her warriors and she headed straight for them. Coming into the camp, she pulled Argo to a halt. "Men!" she hollered

Francis spun around and went rushing over with a few warriors. He could tell Xena was readying to fall.

Amarice, Eponin, and Solari raced over with worry.

The warlord tried to dismount but failed. Her body just shut down as she went crashing to the ground.

Gabrielle started to panic again. "Get her up, hurry." She dismounted and almost fell herself if it wasn't for her Amazons. "Hurry!" she yelled.

Francis and the warriors all carefully lifted Xena up and carried her towards Gabrielle's tent.

"Where's the healer?" demanded the commander. "I want the healer in my hut!" She followed the men carrying Xena into her tent. They laid her on Gabrielle's bed and stepped back. "Where the Hades is the healer?" screamed Gabrielle.

"He's coming," retorted Francis. He held up the tent flap when the healer ran in.

Amarice came up beside her Queen. She grasped Gabrielle's shoulders. "Calm down," she whispered.

The Queen was breathing hard and shaking as she watched the healer work on Xena. She folded her arms and only shook more. Her memories suddenly rushed in on her from the last battle.

"Xena you can’t-" The Queen was cut off.

"Listen to me Gabrielle…" Xena's words were low but hard. "I can not look injured in front of our men." Xena and Gabrielle both ambled into the Queen’s hut.

As soon as Gabrielle shut the door she turned to her soulmate. "Let’s get that wound taken care of."

The warlord stepped up close to her partner but kept a certain distance. "Gabrielle, I need you to understand something." Her voice was hard and almost cold. "If either of us are ever injured no matter the extent we can not act it in front of our men. If we do, our men will kill us for it." She paused. "Any one of those men would die to be a leader in this army."

The Amazon Queen narrowed her eyes. "Maybe in our army but not in my Nation Xena." She crossed her arms against her chest. "Our men fear us… fear you. My Amazons are loyal." She shook her head. "And right now I am going to the healers to get my leg taken care of." Turning around, she grasped the door handle.

Gabrielle slammed back to reality as the memory disappeared. She shook her head and took a calm breath. I have to be strong, she coached herself. She stopped her shaking and came near the healer. "Will she be okay?"

The healer shook his head while cleaning the wounds and stitching them. "She's badly hurt. I don't know… she may not live." He stopped for a moment, thinking it was useless to continue.

The commander grabbed the healer's arm. "Save her or I'll slit your throat myself," she whispered in rage. "This is a real bad time to tell me she might die."

"I'll do everything I can," responded the healer. He went back to work.

"Good, what can I do to help?" The Queen glanced at her Amazons. "Let's help the healer."

The Amazons nodded and came around the bed to help.

~*~*~*~

The healer cleaned his hands with the rag. "That's all that can be done," he announced to all the people in the tent. He held the rag out to Gabrielle.

The Queen looked at her hands still soaked in blood, a mix of Xena and Hercules's. She took the rag and cleaned most of the blood off with shaky hands. She breathed calmly and returned the rag. "Thank you," she said sincerely.

The healer nodded and picked up his things. "I am not sure if she'll make it." He shook his head. "She's falling into a fever to fight all the sickness in her body." He paused. "If she beats the fever by tomorrow then she'll make it, otherwise…" he trailed off.

"Fine," whispered the commander she nodded. "Thank you again."

The healer nodded and left.

The small woman glanced at Francis and the warriors that carried Xena in. "Thank you all."

Francis nodded. "You're welcome."

Gabrielle sighed. "Tomorrow… we'll break camp and head back to Seoirse." She paused. "Get a wagon prepared for Xena."

"As you wish." Francis nodded his head at the warriors. He left with them.

The Amazons were silent.

The Queen said nothing and let the silence fill the tent. She bit her lower lip. "Can you three guard the tent for me?" she whispered. "Please."

Solari stepped up and hugged her Queen tightly.

Gabrielle hugged back.

"We'll protect you both with our lives," whispered the second in command. She smiled sadly and left the tent to stand outside.

Eponin gave a hug next followed by Amarice. They then left and joined Solari outside.

Gabrielle stared at the tent flap wavering then she turned to her soulmate. She neared with a shaky body and heavy breathing. Reaching out with red tinted hands, she grasped Xena's hand. She studied her lover's face and listened to the shallow breathing. "You were almost killed, I broke you out of jail, and killed Hercules," she whispered. "What has happened?" Her eyes stung.

Xena never shifted. Only small beads of sweat, tainted with red, rolled down her body.

Gabrielle closed her eyes and dropped her head back. She tried swallowing the lump down. Tears rolled down her cheeks and she squeezed Xena's hand tightly. "Please come back to me, Xena." She sobbed with muffled whimpers. "I need you more than ever." She broke and fell to her knees. Her head dropped against Xena's hand that she held. The pain, guilt, and shame took over. She cried with such excruciating pain for she just lost all her resolve, dignity and sanity.