Queen Gabrielle gently tugged on Torqueo's reins, and they came to a slow stop before the woods.
"We should go in by foot."
Gabrielle turned her head to the shaman at her right side. She considered the suggestion and looked to the Conqueror for agreement.
The Conqueror scanned the woods that were vaguely familiar to her. She had memories here that were from another life, to her. She came back to the present and recalled Yakut's comment. She just nodded and glanced at Gabrielle.
The bard sensed that her friend had grown uncomfortable and distant. She wouldn't have time to discuss it until her and Xena were tucked away in a hut. She twisted in her saddle and ordered, "Amazons, let's dismount and go in by foot." She, like her Amazons, climbed off their horses.
The Conqueror gave the same orders and easily swung out of her saddle. She landed on the ground with her cape noisily settling behind her. She was back in her traditional attire.
Yakut stayed in the front with the leaders. She followed the worn road past the Thrace Amazon Nation's invisible borders. She expected patrol to pick them up very shortly.
Gabrielle noted how Xena's pace grew slower. Then finally, they all stopped by a silent signal from the Conqueror. Gabrielle looked to the trees like her friend, and then she heard it, the commanding bird call.
Suddenly six Amazons dropped from the trees. They had swords out and masks concealed their faces. They stood between the large party and the rest of the way to the village.
"You've entered Amazon territory," an Amazon spoke, and she stepped out from the line. She glanced at Yakut but her expression was covered by the mask. She then deduced that the woman beside Yakut was most likely Queen Gabrielle. "Welcome to the Thrace Nation, Queen Gabrielle."
The bard felt some relief because this most likely meant that Queen Cyane had received her messages. "Thank you... we are expected then?"
The Thrace Amazon pushed back her mask and revealed her hard features. "Yes. I am Clio, Queen Gabrielle."
Yakut softly smiled at seeing Clio, who was one of the Amazons that rescued her many seasons ago from Xena's camp.
Clio then turned to the Greek ruler, who she hadn't seen since Xena disappeared from the Nation. She noted how Xena had indeed aged and actually appeared much more formidable than those many moons back. "Conqueror, Queen Cyane has extended you her welcome to the Thrace Amazon Nation. Your hoplites are welcomed to build a camp outside the walls, and you may occupy a guest hut if you wish."
The Conqueror slightly bent forward in acceptance. "Greece warms at such a welcome from Queen Cyane." She straightened up.
Clio now focused on the two leaders and offered, "I will guide you to the village." She then turned and called, "Asta, run ahead."
The Amazon, Asta, sheathed her sword then followed her orders. She was extremely fast in her run to the village. She needed to give warning that Queen Gabrielle and the Conqueror had arrived.
Clio ordered the other Amazons to return to patrol. She then guided the large party down the road to the village. "We were expecting you yesterday."
"We ran a bit behind from a break we took in Komotini," Queen Gabrielle clarified.
"I'm sure it was needed." Clio then glanced over her shoulder at the shaman. "Queen Cyane has been excited about your return, Yakut."
The shaman smiled at the news. "How does she fair?"
Clio couldn't help her smile and teased, "Better now that her blood sister has come home."
The shaman adjusted her headdress. "She can get rather moody when I'm not around."
Clio let out a low grunt of agreement. "Many are celebrating your return besides just the queen."
"How does your Nation fair?" Gabrielle broke in.
Clio slowed her pace some so that she was more between Yakut and Queen Gabrielle. "We are well. How is the Macedonia Nation? We heard word about the Battle of the Fates."
"We're recovering well from the battle," Gabrielle responded. "And our relations with the Centaurs is growing stronger each day."
Clio could not imagine the hardships between the Centaurs and Macedonia Amazons. She'd heard plenty about it, but she imagined the strong relations built up were due to Queen Gabrielle. "Queen Cyane admires your hard work with the Centaurs, Queen Gabrielle. I know she wishes to discuss them with you."
"I'd be happy to," the queen insisted. She and Yakut continued to quietly chat with Clio during the rest of the walk to the village.
The Conqueror, however, only casually listened. She never made any comment. She studied her surroundings and faded, ugly memories resurfaced. She saw Alti's face and heard Alti's heavy panting followed by groans.
"Harder," the evil shaman snarled. She had her back against the tree, but she was suddenly spun around and shoved forward into it. Next there was a strong body against her back and long fingers rammed into her. Alti clawed the tree and barely resisted her natural cries when the thrusts became rough and faster. She then huskily drew out, "Xenaaaa."
"Conqueror?"
Xena sharply returned to the present and sensed the light but burning touch on her forearm. She focused down on Gabrielle.
Gabrielle didn't verbally ask, but she worriedly studied the ruler.
The Conqueror reached over and briefly squeezed Gabrielle's hand in reassurance. She then focused on the distant gates of the village not far away.
Clio came to a stop just near the gates. She turned to the leaders. "I'll show your hoplites where they can camp."
The Conqueror nodded but turned and called, "Cyryl."
The dekadarchos came to his leader's side with his horse in tow. "Yes, my liege?"
"Clio is going to show you where camp can be made." The Conqueror hesitated but added, "Be sure to remind the hoplites about their... dignity."
Cyryl recalled the Conqueror's lecture and orders that no hoplite was allowed any sexual encounter with an Amazon, even if invited. Cyryl was also separately ordered to make sure no hoplite made any remarks about Amazons that would offend them. If something were to happen, the Conqueror made it very clear that any hoplite's damaging action or words would harm her, and she would require retribution for it. At that point, Cyryl realized his duty was much hefty than just casually minding the men.
"I will remind them," the dekadarchos promised.
The Conqueror nodded then focused back on Clio. "My dekadarchos, Cyryl, will be happy to follow you."
Clio started to head off, but she called to the shaman. "I'm sure you know the rest of the way, Yakut."
The shaman shot a smile at Clio, and she guided the thinned party the rest of the way to the gates just ahead. She noted they were starting to open for them. Yakut now grew excited at the prospect of seeing her blood sister.
The wood gates that had iron reinforcement came to a loud stop. Some dust settled back to the ground, and a few Thrace Amazons waited at the open gates. As the invited party approached, there was a single figure that formed just beyond the gates and patiently waited.
Yakut immediately recognized who it was, and she leaned closer to Gabrielle.
The Conqueror studied who it was and Yakut's next words confirmed her suspicions.
"It's Queen Cyane." Yakut had a wide smile. She missed her blood sister greatly despite she'd thoroughly enjoyed her time in the Macedonia Nation.
Queen Cyane stood proudly just beyond the gates. She had long, blond hair that reached past her shoulders, and her feathers hung from her tresses. She had her arms casually crossed over her chest and a slight lean to her left side. She was well covered by her dark leathers and furs but the bronze ornamentation starkly stood out against her clothes. She bore a brown leather headband that was stamped with a traditional Amazon design.
Queen Gabrielle came to a stop only a few paces from the other queen. She felt her chest tight, and her damp palm left a moist stamp in Torqueo's reins.
"Queen Gabrielle," Cyane drew out in a smooth voice, "Welcome to the Thrace Nation." She glanced briefly at the shaman then back at Queen Gabrielle. "I cannot offer enough appreciate for not only caring and schooling my shaman, but safely returning her here."
Gabrielle finally found her voice. "Every bit of it was my pleasure as well as my Nation's." She enjoyed the warm smile that Cyane returned.
Cyane stepped closer and held out her arm in offer.
Gabrielle kindly took it and briskly held on for assurance. She released her hold and watched Queen Cyane go to the shaman.
"You look healthy, sister." Cyane tilted her head to the right and taunted, "They fed you well... your cheeks have filled more."
Yakut flushed and chided, "I'm just aging."
"Is that what you call it?" The Thrace Queen taunted, but she stepped forward and hugged her blood sister. She didn't care for formalities with the shaman.
Yakut happily returned the hug and contently sighed afterwards. Now, she and Queen Gabriell watched Cyane go to the Conqueror.
Cyane lifted her chin some and locked eyes with the great Conqueror, who she recalled once as a dark, angry warlord. She slotted her eyes and coldly asked, "Here for my mask again?"
The Conqueror held her ground and honestly replied, "Here for your relations... and perhaps your friendship."
Queen Cyane folded her arms. "I may be able to offer relations, but nothing more."
Xena bowed her head and remained polite to the entire conversation. "Then it is more than I hoped for."
"We will see," the Thrace Queen casually remarked. She then looked to Queen Gabrielle. "I have huts prepared for you and your Amazons. It'll be two to a hut." She then looked between the Conqueror and Queen Gabrielle. "I cannot offer you each a separate hut though."
Gabrielle looked at her friend. "We can stay together."
The Conqueror merely nodded her agreement.
Cyane kind of thought so from what she inferred between rumors and messages. "I'll show you to the stables then we can go to the huts."
"Thank you," Gabrielle offered.
The group arrived at the stables and took time to untack their horses then give them fresh feed. Later, the horses would be taken to the corrals but only after they had much needed rest. One by one, the Amazons filed out of the stables with saddlebags on their shoulders. Queen Gabrielle was the only one that had her saddlebags carried for her by Ephiny because the bags' extra weight on her still healing ankle. Queen Cyane verbally gave an overview of the village, but she promised prior to dinner that everybody would have a tour. She imagined though that the travelers wanted to relax for a little while. She brought the visitors to the grouping of huts that were reserved for them.
Queen Gabrielle took over and broke up the Amazons into pairs then assigned them a hut. She made sure to place Seven of Nine with Andra just to be safe. She then allowed Solari and Ephiny together while Teresa and Adonia paired. Finally, Gabrielle paired off Gryta and Medora together since they both were fairly quiet. Next, she asked Queen Cyane if they could have a tour in two candlemarks, and Queen Cyane conceded that an Amazon would arrive by then. Quickly the Macedonia Amazons separated and went to their respective huts. That only left Queen Cyane, Yakut, the Conqueror, and Gabrielle together in a close circle.
"Have you determined how long you may be here?" Cyane inquired. "You sounded unsure in the messages."
Gabrielle glanced up at the Greek ruler but sensed she was suppose to answer. "No more than a fortnight, I would say."
Cyane nodded and warmly smiled. "We have plenty of room... you're welcomed however long, Queen Gabrielle." She became a bit more serious. "We all have much to discuss." She glanced between the Macedonia Queen and the Conqueror. "I'd like to setup some meeting times."
"That'd be great." Gabrielle leaned against her staff to help relieve some pressure from her bad ankle.
Cyane noted how the Conqueror was rather quiet, but questioningly peered up at the dark ruler.
Xena had her saddlebags in her right hand. She was stoic and revealed nothing in her face. "I concur." She kept an even tone.
"We'll discuss it later then." Queen Cyane stepped back once. "I'll have somebody come to your hut for the tour."
"Thank you." The bard flashed a warm smile.
Cyane now smiled at her blood sister. "Come on, sister." She and Yakut said goodbye to Gabrielle and the Conqueror then went on their way. Their conversation bubbled around them.
Gabrielle followed Xena to their hut, and she prepared to pick up her saddlebags that Ephiny left for her.
Xena was faster and scooped up the bags. She shoved the door open for them.
The Amazon appreciatively smiled and entered the warm hut.
The Conqueror followed and closed the door with her boot. She went to the round table off to the right and set their bags down. "Why don't you sit and rest your ankle."
"As if I wasn't on the ride all day," the bard argued.
"You still put stress on it by riding," Xena debated.
Gabrielle sighed because she couldn't argue Xena. She first leaned her staff on the wall near the door then she went to the foot of the bed. She released a content breath once she was seated on the comfortable bed. She patted the fluffy bed and commented, "Nothing like wool filling."
Xena just flashed a faint smile. She went back to rummaging through her saddlebags.
The bard tilted her head and studied her friend's stiff back. "So, what's up?"
The Conqueror glanced around her shoulder then focused on her task. "Perhaps the sky."
Gabrielle blew up some air, which caused her short bangs to rise briefly. "Xena," she warned.
The ruler pulled out the salix alba balm and came over to the bard. She squatted down, set the jar aside, and proceeded to unlace Gabrielle's boots.
Gabrielle grumbled and leaned forward once she realized she wasn't getting a response. "Xena, what's wrong?" She stretched out her right hand and tilted Xena's head back with her fingertips. "I know you."
The Conqueror's right eyebrow rose up into an arch. "Can't I have any privacy?"
Gabrielle smirked and taunted, "Do you really want me to answer that question?"
Xena huffed and moved her chin free from Gabrielle's touch. She bowed her head and pulled off the boots. Once they were set aside, she retrieved some balm and started rubbing it into Gabrielle's injured ankle.
The bard nibbled on her lower lip and debated whether to keep pressing her friend. She couldn't stop herself, rarely. "You're uncomfortable being here."
Xena kept her head slightly down while she worked the balm into Gabrielle's skin. She then quietly responded to the statement. "The last impression these women have of me was of an evil warlord... on the brink of becoming the Destroyer of Nations." She hesitated but softly added, "I was going to take Cyane's mask and kill the Nation."
"But none of that happened," Gabrielle reminded.
The ruler hesitated and peered up at her friend. "Just barely." She collected the wood jar and screwed on the cap. She climbed to her feet and went to the saddlebags. "It didn't happen only because Cyane figured it out in time. It wasn't stopped because I changed my mind."
"I don't know," Gabrielle fought, "I think it did stop because you changed your mind." She found curious blue eyes on her when Xena partially turned to her. "Yakut did free you, and you had the choice to come back with your army... destroy the Nation. But you never did that, and you went onto Sparta to begin a new way." She slid off the bed and quietly came up behind the ruler. "You've come a long way, Xena."
The Conqueror closed up the saddlebags then turned back to her friend. "But have I really?" She watched how Gabrielle tilted her head. "I still kill... I conquer. Am I not still doing the same thing and just fluffing it with honor?"
The bard sighed and gingerly touched her friend's biceps as she spoke. "You're not doing this out of anger or vengeance... and you're uniting Greece again." She carefully studied Xena's features. "You're protecting Greece before Rome takes us."
"Don't liken me to Alexander the Great, Gabrielle."
"Well he was a male," Gabrielle tried to joke, but it fell short. She felt her shoulders slump. "Xena, I know what you're doing is for Greece... for the people... it's for the Greater Good." She searched Xena's rich blue eyes and whispered, "I know the woman under all this armor. She's the woman that grew up with me, loved me, protected me, and taught me many lessons."
"Some lessons much harder than others," the ruler softly teased.
Gabrielle cracked a smile, which Xena mirrored in return. But she became serious again. "I think we both know if you were headed down the wrong path that I would be against you."
Xena partially frowned and confessed, "I worry I could be and neither of us know it... then I'm leading you with me."
"Nah," Gabrielle casually debated. She shrugged and reminded, "I'm not that naive."
"Not anymore," the ruler taunted. She smirked when Gabrielle's eyes slotted.
"Who's fault is that?" Gabrielle freed her hands and placed them on her own hips instead. "I was sweet... innocent before I met you."
Xena laughed and shook her head. "I don't think so."
The bard's jaw dropped then she poked Xena' in the chest with her right index finger. "I was a goody two shoes before you."
Xena now folded her arms over her chest. "My best friend a GTS?" She bent forward and inquired, "Ifff you were such a GTS, Gabrielle do you think we would have gotten along?" She slightly narrowed her eyes. "I can think of plenty of things that a real GTS would have never done... but you did."
Gabrielle became absolutely offended and argued, "You made me." She glowered when her friend laughed at her. "Okay so that time we pretended to be wolves and scare the... flock out of the shepherd was my idea."
Xena deeply laughed at the fond and creative memory. She then reminded, "How about the time you egged Old Lady Celena's house?"
"You... you made me!" Gabrielle growled and hotly reminded, "You said if I didn't do it that I wouldn't see you for three moons!" She became angry just at the old memory. "Then I find out you were planning to see me in fortnight anyway."
The ruler devilishly laughed at her friend. "That was so funny."
Gabrielle snarled and suddenly shoved her friend away.
Xena stumbled back a step then instantly raised her hands in a defensive manner. She had a dark smile and huskily taunted, "Oooh sly Bri can lie."
Gabrielle gritted her teeth at hearing the old taunt from her childhood. Xena's rhyming line always infuriated her and still could do it. "I never lied."
Xena snickered then said in a light voice, "Miss Celena, Xena and I saw the boys throwing the eggs at your house. We tried to stop them but-"
"Well I wasn't going to tell her I did it!" Gabrielle fought back.
Xena laughed loudly at the bard's argument. "Gabrielle, I know you and Xena would neeever do something like that."
The bard snickered and muttered, "I did fool her pretty good."
Xena shook her head and smirked at her friend. "Good acting, GTS... no wonder you're a bard now." She smiled wickedly. "You should think about playwright too."
Gabrielle sighed deeply and asked, "Are you finished now?"
"With you?" The ruler teased, "Never."
The Amazon Queen gritted her teeth and hissed, "Mule."
"Ox," the ruler shot back.
"Pigheaded."
"Liar," Xena needled.
Gabrielle's jaw slackened, but she fired back, "Hades-raiser."
The Conqueror suddenly revealed a dark grin, and she moved fast. She scooped up the bard and hefted her over her right shoulder. All the while her ear rung with Gabrielle's scream.
"Xena, don't you dare!"
"Hang on, featherhead," The Conqueror tormented as she stepped into an open space. She quickly spun around in a circle.
"Xenaaaa!" Gabrielle clung to any and all wire armor through the cape on Xena's backside. She pasted her face against Xena's back in hopes not to see or feel the spinning. "Oh my gods!"
The Conqueror only stopped when she felt herself dizzy. She slightly stumbled but easily spread her legs just to balance them. "Maybe that was one too many."
The bard groaned deeply.
"But we know what fixes that problem," Xena brought up.
"N-n-no." Gabrielle suddenly buried her face again just as Xena started to spin the opposite direction. Then they suddenly stopped, and Xena was setting her down on her feet. Gabrielle started to tumble because she was dizzy.
Xena grabbed the small woman and lifted her into her arms. "I thought you've been walking since you were one."
The Amazon groaned and dropped her face into Xena's neck. "I hate you some times."
The Conqueror lingered over to the bedside and remarked, "It's mutual." She slid the bard into the bed and loomed above her.
Gabrielle laid down and released a shaky breath. "Why do I put up with you again?"
Xena placed her hands on the edge of the bed as she leaned down. She tilted her head and held Gabrielle's eyes. "Because you want me."
The bard developed a skeptic look. "Boy is somebody's ego inflated." She then smirked, yet she could tell Xena wasn't the least bothered.
"Hey." Xena shrugged. "You were the one waiting all these countless seasons for me to ask you on a date."
"Please," Gabrielle brushed off. "Let me know when your head is off Mount Olympus."
The Conqueror softly grinned and lowered some. She whispered, "Only you put me there every time."
Gabrielle hesitated because she realized it was a honest confession. For an instant, she knew she'd heard a romantic comment from Xena. She lifted her left hand and pressed her warm palm against Xena's cheek. "Xena, I-" She became sharply cut off by the knock at the door.
Before either ruler or queen could give a command, the door shoved open and Ephiny's head popped through the opening. By that point, the Conqueror had straightened up and became rather formal. Gabrielle though closed her eyes and her arm flopped down; she wanted to hurt the Amazon. She took a few beats to calm her temper.
"My queen, I need to speak with you."
Xena slipped her hands between her cape and back. She glanced down at the bard.
Gabrielle gathered her temper and set it aside. She carefully sat up and responded to Ephiny. "Can it wait 'til later?"
Ephiny slowly nodded. "Perhaps after the tour... or dinner," she granted.
"Is everybody settled into their huts?" the queen checked.
"Yes, we're fine... thank you." Ephiny glanced at the Conqueror then back to the queen. "I'll see you in a candlemark for the tour." She started to back out.
"Ephiny," Gabrielle softly called.
The Amazon poked her head back and waited.
"Knock next time... please."
Ephiny dropped her eye contact but replied, "I apologize." She had a slight flush to her cheeks. She quietly left and shut the door behind her.
Gabrielle waited a beat then she fell back into the bed. "I think she had her ear pressed against the door to time that so right."
Xena brought her hands back around. She slightly flinched but it went unnoticed by Gabrielle. "You and Ephiny were lovers?" she casually asked.
Gabrielle blinked then focused up on her friend. Her eyebrows drew in and almost touched.
"She watches us when we're together," the ruler clarified.
Gabrielle bit her lower lip then blinked a few times. "It was quite awhile ago."
"That doesn't mean she's past it."
The bard reached up and brushed back her bangs. "You don't have to tell me." She kept her hand in her short hair. "She was a good friend."
The Conqueror now sat down on the edge of the bed, and Gabrielle scooted over to give her more room. "What happened?"
Gabrielle rolled onto her left side and propped herself up. She leaned her head back some to look up at Xena. "Ephiny and I met at the Academy... we were roommates. We became really close, and it just kind of developed from there."
"Who left who or was it mutual?"
The queen lowered her gaze, and her face dimmed. "I broke it off. I just... I knew my heart really wasn't into it. I mean I knew I loved her and still do." She reached forward and toyed a bit with Xena's cape. "I wasn't in love, and I couldn't pretend I was."
The Conqueror faintly nodded, and she watched how Gabrielle played with her cape. "I've been down that path a few times."
Gabrielle bobbed her head and considered some of Xena's past that she knew. She then quietly asked, "Were you in love with Caesar?" She didn't dare look up.
"No," Xena easily and instantly replied. "Perhaps in love with his power... or the idea of it." She could only see Gabrielle's profile, which stayed well cloaked from emotions. She shifted her right hand to cover Gabrielle's, and she stopped Gabrielle's toying with the cape.
Gabrielle lifted her eyes to her friend, and she sadly smiled. "Sometimes I feel like I've... lost so much."
Xena tilted her head but remained quiet too.
"Then there's moments like this..." Gabrielle signaled it by turning her hand over and squeezing Xena's. "I realize how lucky I am after all." She lowered her gaze, and a gloss coated her eyes. "As much as I love my family... my mother and father, Lila... it hurts without them. I can still go on." She leaned her head back again and focused on Xena. "But I was broken when I lost you."
The Conqueror tightened her grip on her friend's hand. "I know."
Gabrielle understood that Xena felt the same way. "You think it's wrong?"
"No," Xena murmured.
The bard had a bittersweet expression clearly showing. She had no other words and just merely leaned back into the bed. She contently sighed; she also still held Xena's hand.
"Get a little bit of rest," the ruler suggested.
Gabrielle glanced over at Xena. "What you going to do?"
"I need to catch up on some scrollwork." The ruler tilted her head. "I'm not much for the scrollwork side of things but..."
"It has to be done," the bard agreed. She released Xena's hand and patted it. "If I snore, just shake me."
Xena grinned then stood up. She went over to her saddlebags and pulled out four scrolls that she took to the large, round table. She unrolled the first one, which only required her to read over it and be aware of it.
Gabrielle rolled onto her side so that she faced Xena. She already had her eyes closed, but she distantly heard Xena shuffling with the scroll's rollers. She gradually drifted into a calm sleep.
The Conqueror occasionally glanced at her friend. She finished with the scroll, rolled it up, and walked it back to her saddlebags. This time she retrieved her quill and a small inkwell. The next scroll was something she'd been waiting to read since she received it from Tracker.
The scroll contained information about Cornelio of Articia that Tracker had recorded in his findings. For several moons, Tracker and the six hoplites still in Articia were in charge of discovering the whereabouts of the Cornelio and his House. The six hoplites had yet to see Cornelio's return, and they hadn't heard any word from the village about him. But they continued to guard Cornelio's grounds.
Now that Xena had conquered the Macedon Kingdom, she held jurisdiction over Articia. She'd recalled the constable of the town and instructed him to increase his resources and time into finding out more about Cornelio. Constable Jacinto reported to Tracker, who then reported back to Xena about any news. In Tracker's latest report, he seemed to sympathize that the rumors about the Romans taking Cornelio were becoming a fact.
Xena came to the bottom of the scroll where Tracker was requesting for further resources to widen his scope. Tracker wanted to go outside of Greece borders and into Thrace since that seemed the most logical step. If the Romans indeed took Cornelio and his House then the Romans would take them due north to Macedonia Salutaris.
Xena heavily debated the outcome of such a venture. She felt that if the Romans or King Cortese had a hand in this then it was just another method to get to her through Gabrielle. It was the reason why she never revealed to Gabrielle about what happened to Cornelio. But she suspected it wouldn't be long before Gabrielle decided to visit him and find out. She inwardly cringed at the thought. She sensed most likely that Gabrielle held Cornelio in high regard because of his love and care for her and other slaves.
The Conqueror tapped her dry quill once on the signature line that required her authorization. She looked over at her sleeping friend and studied her for a beat. She sighed then dipped her quill's point into the inkwell. She pressed the inky tip into the parchment and signed her name; she only hoped this didn't mean she took the bait from the Romans.
Close to a candlemark since Gabrielle fell asleep, Xena cleaned up everything and tucked her documents away. She then placed the saddlebags on the chair she vacated then went over to the bedside closest to Gabrielle. She knew the tour would be shortly.
Gabrielle slightly stirred when she sensed something seated beside her on the bed. Then a warm hand pressed into the side of her jawline.
"Bri," Xena softly called. "Come on."
"Couple more beats," the bard muttered.
The ruler's lips upturned, and she rubbed the bard's shoulder. "Come on now... I can't handle a tour with all these Amazons alone." She heard a low chuckle from the bard.
"You think I can?"
"You've been living with them longer," the ruler teased.
"Don't remind me." Gabrielle now opened her eyes and peered up at her friend. "Get your work done?"
"Mostly." The Conqueror noticed a curious glint in the bard's eye.
"Sooo... are you sending out those scrolls or...?"
Xena chuckled and decided to explain how it worked. "If I'm away from Corinth, the capitol, then automatically a messenger system starts."
Gabrielle furrowed her eyebrows.
"It's something I setup after I realized I needed to stay in touch with not just the army but the polis."
"Basically, you have a system arranged to have messages and scrolls delivered and taken, right?"
Xena nodded. "Even if I happen to disengage from the army, like I am now, then the messengers are given notice. They're aware of where I'm headed and follow me to my latest location."
Gabrielle now sat up at a thought that came to mind. "Isn't that a little dangerous? I mean what if somebody was trying to pinpoint your location... they could just follow the messenger trail."
The ruler grinned at the Amazon Queen's line of thought. "Yes. In that case, I would tell the messengers to disengage from my trail. Typically I would send word for them to meet me at a location... perhaps a town. It depends on the situation."
"Huh," Gabrielle muttered. She shook her head. "Talk about having the means... and drachmas to do something like that."
"It's important," the ruler reminded.
The bard puckered her lips some then curiously inquired, "Am I allowed to use your... messenger boys?"
Xena's lips curled into a deep grin. "What do you have to offer in trade?"
Gabrielle laughed and swiftly reminded, "Perhaps relations with Queen Cyane is plenty."
The Conqueror chuckled and patted her friend's thigh. "Good call." She stood up and ordered, "Come on."
"I'm movin', I'm movin'." Gabrielle collected herself and slid off the foot of the bed. She padded over to her boots, grabbed them, and pulled out a chair from the table. She sat and proceeded to get her boots on and laced.
"How'd you sleep?"
"Pretty good."
Xena nodded as she drifted into the washroom. She felt the need to clean up a bit.
Gabrielle was hunched over. "I think Yakut is happy to be home."
"How many moons was she in your Nation?" the ruler called.
Gabrielle pondered the question. "She came a fortnight before the spring equinox I would say." She finished with her boots and went to the pegboard where her sword hung and her staff waited. She first put her sword at her back. "I don't even think Yakut has covered everything from the priesthood."
"I would doubt it." Xena stood in the doorway of the washroom. She was patting her face dry with a towel after just washing it. "The shamanism has really taken over here in the Thrace Nation."
"You think that's because of Alti?" the queen checked.
Xena shook her head and went back into the washroom. She hung the towel up then came back out. She met her friend at the door. "The shaman before Alti, Ino, she knew little of the priesthood. I'd say it happened a couple of shamans before Ino."
"Huh." Gabrielle considered it a beat but grabbed the door handle. "I wonder why it was lost?"
Xena shrugged and reminded, "Why was Gaia lost to the Amazons?"
The queen didn't have an answer for either, yet she kept thinking about it as she left the hut with Xena. She and Xena joined the Amazons outside the huts and soon were headed on their tour around the busy village.
The tour lasted for almost two candlemarks, and their guide was the stratègos, Lyda, who Xena clearly recalled from her last time in the Thrace Nation. Lyda gave a generous and informative tour of the large Nation and explained some of the history. Gryta had taken mental notes, but she knew she had a moon or so to stay in the Thrace Nation and record the details. By the end of the tour, Lyda had looped everybody back to the dining hut and brought them in for dinner.
The Macedonia Amazons starkly stood out compared to their Thracian sisters because of their attire. But it was truly the Thrace Amazons that wore different attire compared to the rest of the Amazon Nations. They were the furthest from the rest and had developed some of their own customs that helped them adapt, especially to the local terrain.
And Gabrielle was every bit curious about the cuisine tonight. She noted it was indeed mainly Greek, but it had influences from the eastern cultures. She was in the foodline and came to a platter she wasn't familiar with eating. She peered up at the Conqueror.
Xena instantly understood the look. She only said, "Moussaka."
The bard grabbed the large spoon from the deep dish. She inspected the food and asked, "Eggplant?"
"Yes, mixed with lamb, tomato, and onion. It has a white sauce on top then is baked," the ruler clarified. She then softly added, "It's very good."
That's all Gabrielle needed to hear at the end. She scooped up a good helping and put it on her plate. She moved down the line. At the end of the table, she spotted the shopska salad, which she'd only had once or twice in her life. She grew excited and had enough room on her plate for the salad. Just as she set the spoon back with the plate, she noticed Queen Cyane coming up to her.
"I was going to ask if you found anything to your liking," Cyane mentioned. "But I see you're doing just fine."
Queen Gabrielle flushed and glanced at her filled plate. "I like to try new foods."
"You like food in general," Xena whispered into the bard's ear as she passed.
The bard shot a quick glower at her friend then focused back on the Thrace Queen. "Is there anywhere in particular we're to sit?"
Cyane half turned and pointed to her right. "Over there is where most of the Royal Line sits if you'll both join us." She lowered her arm to her side. "I'll show your Amazons where they can sit."
"Thank you," Gabrielle responded. She then led her and Xena to the table that Cyane had pointed out. She found two open chairs and took the one on the left. She visually checked on Xena and could tell the ruler had grown tense. She quietly sighed and hoped that the ruler wouldn't have indigestion at least. But before even her and Xena could be seated, the officers at the table rose up in respect.
"Queen Gabrielle," the stratègos greeted, "Conqueror." She held out her hand to her right. "This is my polemarchos, Olivia." Lyda then signaled the Amazon to the right of Olivia. "Next is my ilarchès, Lais."
Xena studied the ilarchès curiously. She would have been in Lais's feathers if she'd stayed in the Amazon Nation and likened it. She followed Lyda's next introduction.
"Beside Lais is our head councilor, Talia." Lyda then smiled when she came to the shaman. "Of course beside you, Queen Gabrielle is Yakut." She came to the Amazon sitting to the Conqueror's right. "Our weapons master, Tullia."
The Conqueror noted that most likely Yalenda had retired and now Tullia had taken the position.
"The head healer is Lena. And beside Lena is Nikita... she's our ambassador." Lyda now lowered her hand to her side. "Please sit everybody." She, like the rest, sat down and became comfortable at their spot.
Queen Gabrielle did not dare eat until Queen Cyane had returned. She cleared her throat and asked, "How has the Nation faired without your shaman?"
Yakut huffed and quickly answered, "Most likely well."
"That's based on opinion," Lyda argued. She spotted her queen coming and quickly commented, "Some of us get rather grouchy without their blood sister around."
"Lyda," Queen Cyane warned. She'd clearly heard the remark even from her distance. She joined the table and sat. She appreciated that the table waited for her before eating. She became comfortable and took her spoon then everybody followed her lead.
Cyane saw that Gabrielle first tried the moussaka. "How do you like it, Queen Gabrielle?"
The bard was caught off guard but promptly finished her mouthful. "It's very good. What kind of cheese is this?"
"The white sauce," the Thrace Queen described, "is a béchamel sauce. The cheese we use is sirene... we produce it here from our sheep."
Gabrielle was quite pleased with the flavor. "I may have to take some sirene back with me to my Nation."
Cyane chuckled and produced a warm smile. "I think I can arrange that." She paused from scooping some of her moussaka. "Does the Macedonia Nation specialize in any cheeses or produce?"
Gabrielle nodded once then finally replied, "We have a stellar selection of olive oils... varying qualities. Then more recently we've branched out into wine."
"Really?" Cyane was impressed. "Are you trading wine then?"
"In the last couple of seasons, yes. It's been quite profitable for us along with the oil."
The Thrace Queen considered this information then looked at her blood sister. "How did the wine taste, Yakut?"
The shaman slightly flushed as if being caught somehow. "It was... smooth and sweet."
"Does it match the Chios wine?" Cyane inquired. She had a grin and sparkle to her eyes.
Gabrielle chuckled and shook her head. "We're definitely not quite that popular. Our viticulture is improving each season, but I don't think we'll be selling our wine for two drachmas a chous in Athens anytime soon."
"Pity," Cyane argued. She still had her grin and offered, "Perhaps though your wines will fetch a fair amount of sirene cheese."
Queen Gabrielle knew a trade when she smelled it. "Indeed. I'm sure my Nation would be apt to such a trade."
"I imagine you drive a hard bargain, Queen Gabrielle." Cyane tilted her head and mentioned, "There's rumor you talked a blacksmith into your Nation many seasons back."
Gabrielle noted that military officers were keen on the topic now. "We were in dire need of one... and she inclined to come to my Nation."
Cyane chuckled at Queen Gabrielle's roundabout way of saying she did encourage the blacksmith to join the Macedonia Nation. "Well, at any rate it is a feat that we still tackle with each day." She then became a bit more serious and stated, "Other news is that your Nation has allied with Greece." She raised her filled spoon but paused and added, "It seems we're the only Amazon Nation not allied."
The bard cleared her throat then picked up her mug of wine. She knew this was her opening to a long, approaching discussion for the next days. "Yes, the Conqueror offered a fair alliance that will bring much to my Nation... economically, politically, and financially." She knew this was her chance to do some advertising for her friend. "It was an offer that I nor my council could refuse."
"Indeed," Cyane murmured. She then focused on the silent Greek ruler beside the bard. "You faired well against the Macedon Kingdom and King Cortese, Conqueror."
Xena locked her steel-blue eyes with Cyane. "Not as well as I prefer, but the kingdom is now being merged into the Greek polis."
"How do the people from the kingdom receive you?" Lyda cut in.
The Conqueror looked to the stratègos. "I am liked, fortunately."
"King Cortese was popular among his people," Lyda argued.
"He was," Gabrielle agreed. "But it was uncovered that King Cortese has two-faces."
"Was he not suppose to help during the Battle of the Fates?" Olivia questioned.
The Conqueror quickly gave an answer. "Originally, yes but I refused him. He's allied with the Romans and as Queen Gabrielle said, he is two-faced. He was planning a double-cross and assist the warlord during the battle."
"A concept you're intimate with," Lyda needled.
Xena clenched her jaw tightly.
Gabrielle's temper jumped, but she was cut short before she could remark back.
"Stratègos," Cyane cautioned. "It's not wise to insult a guest in the Nation." She had a sharp warning in her eyes for Lyda. "And do not insult me with poor representation."
"I apologize, my queen." Lyda then looked to Xena, a former Amazon from the Thrace Nation. "You have changed greatly, Conqueror since we last saw you. I apologize for my rude remark."
Xena only bowed her head in acceptance and let it go. She felt she deserved it considering her history here in the Thrace Amazon Nation.
Gabrielle slipped her right hand under the table and gently squeezed her friend's lower thigh. She really hoped the table conversation didn't ruin Xena's dinner.
Queen Cyane continued the conversation and carefully chose her words not to bring up anymore sore spots. Only occasionally was she able to get the Conqueror to speak, which she expected anyway. What she noticed was the body language and small physically communications between Queen Gabrielle and the Conqueror. She had an inkling in the back of her head now.
Eventually the dinner slowed down and Amazons were filtering out of the dining hut. Gabrielle asked the Conqueror if she was finished and ready to go. Gabrielle felt mostly mentally worn after trying to keep up and her ankle did bother her a bit. Maybe Xena was right about riding putting a strain on it. The Conqueror and Gabrielle excused themselves and decided to take care of their dishes first.
Xena felt some relief once she stepped out into the cool evening. She made it a few hundred paces from the hut then stopped and turned to Gabrielle. "I need to catch up with Cyryl before we retire for the night."
Gabrielle sympathized. "I need to check on my Amazons myself. How long do you think you may be?"
The Conqueror considered it then estimated, "About a candlemark or so."
The bard edged closer to her friend and lowered her voice. "You okay after the smartass stratègos remark?"
"I'm fine," the ruler brushed off. She then grinned despite her dim eyes. "Nothing that isn't true." She glanced off to her left and spotted Cyane and Yakut coming out together. She slightly narrowed her eyes and wondered about the heavy conversation between the two because Yakut had a distraught look.
"Yakut," Cyane started, but she stopped and faced her blood sister. "I've never asked how Xena escaped the jail because I prefer not to know." She came closer to the shaman so that she could keep her voice quieter. "I can only assume she escaped on her own accord. And if somebody helped her then I prefer not to know who." She licked her lips and studied the shaman's face. "For once, ignorance is bliss to me."
"But what if I told you-"
Cyane placed her hand over Yakut's mouth to stop her. She then removed her hand and reminded, "I do not wish to have any knowledge, Yakut." She hesitated but leaned in and whispered, "If somebody freed her then they did what I could not do... show Xena there is another purpose to her life."
Yakut sighed deeply and her shoulders remained low. "Cyane... thank you."
Cyane placed her palm against the shaman's cheek. "Thank you, sister." She then smiled and ordered, "Go get some rest. You've had a long day."
Yakut nodded then started towards Queen Gabrielle, who wasn't far away. "Goodnight, my queen."
"Goodnight, Yakut." Cyane briefly watched the shaman go to Queen Gabrielle then she glanced at the Conqueror, who was headed towards the gates alone. She suspected the ruler wanted to check on her hoplites. She sighed and went on her way to her office hut; she still had work to do.
"Queen Gabrielle," the shaman greeted.
"Hello, Yakut." The bard warmly smiled. She'd only made it a few steps and stopped again. "You must be worn out."
"I am." The shaman then inquired, "How is your ankle?"
"It's much better but still sore sometimes."
Yakut nodded but promised, "In the next days it should be fine again."
Gabrielle hoped it was true. She sensed something was on the shaman's mind so she asked, "Is everything alright?"
"Well..." Yakut sighed then reached up to adjust her headdress. "That's what I wanted to ask... about the Conqueror."
Gabrielle felt a partial frown tug at her lips. "She's okay, Yakut... a lot of this is hard for her." She pressed her lips tightly together. "But I think it'll improve each day."
"I hope so." Yakut then considered something and mentioned, "This would be much harder for her if you weren't here."
The queen bowed her head for a moment then lifted it again. "I know. I'm doing everything I can."
Yakut wistfully smiled. "I will try my best with Cyane as well." Then her smile softened. "Thank you for everything. If there's ever anything in the future you or the Macedonia Nation needs then please ask me."
"Yakut, your friendship is more than plenty." Gabrielle then softly added, "And what you did for Xena... I could never repay you. You stopped her from stepping over that edge."
"She made the choice," the shaman reminded. She then moved forward and pulled the queen into a hug. "Thank you again, Gabrielle."
The bard tightly hugged the petite shaman and whispered back, "You're welcome, my friend." She pulled away then ordered, "Go get some rest... you had a long day."
Yakut chuckled and shook her head. "Queens," she muttered and started towards her hut. "Goodnight, Gabrielle."
"See you tomorrow, Yakut." The bard watched the shaman leave then she headed back for her hut. She was looking forward to the soft bed plus her bonus was to curl up with Xena. But first, she wanted to catch up with Ephiny as she'd promised so she went to Ephiny's hut.
Ephiny emerged from the hut and went to a quiet location between the huts. She informed the queen that everybody was doing well and seemed comfortable in the Thrace Nation. She then asked, "How long do you think we'll stay here?"
Gabrielle debated it then shrugged. "I think it'll depend on how long it takes to setup the relations between the Conqueror and Cyane."
"You really think it's doable?"
The queen grinned and swore, "I know so."
Ephiny shook her head and chuckled, but she became more serious. "I wanted to talk to you about the other night."
Gabrielle raised her chin slightly because she knew what other night her friend meant.
"I was really out of line." Ephiny released a hefty sigh. "I just... I think it's hard for me more at points to see you with her." She licked her lips and honestly confessed, "You're moving on while I'm still stuck on what we had."
"Ephiny," Gabrielle tried.
"No, I know why I snapped and made that remark." Ephiny shook her head. "I guess I think you favor Seven a lot, and I related that favoritism to your relationship with Xena." She lowered her eyes to the ground. "Either way, I was wrong for what I said." She focused back on Gabrielle. "I'm sorry I said it, Gabrielle."
The bard sensed that her friend was done. She gathered her thoughts then finally spoke. "Ephiny, we've been through a lot together. You and I have... survived the Academy together."
The Amazon laughed at the verb used for the Academy. "Yes, we survived it."
Gabrielle smiled but continued her talk. "We graduated together. And I went back to the Nation with you, and you supported me through many seasons in the Nation. I can't count how many times I cried to you about Melosa."
Ephiny chuckled at the old memories.
"You never judged me about my brand either." Gabrielle nibbled on her lower lip. "You've always been there for me... even with that last fiasco with the Battle of the Fates."
Ephiny blew air out between her lips and shook her head at the memory.
"I use to regret that we ever became more than friends," Gabrielle confessed. She saw the hurt shadow across the Amazon's face. "But I stopped regretting it when I realized what we had will always be something between us. And I hope some day it will actually be the foundation to our friendship again."
Ephiny swallowed hard and reached up pushed back some of her curly locks. She dropped her hand to her side. "I won't stop loving you, Gabrielle."
"And I never have stopped loving you, Ephiny... but it's not the right love for you in that way or measure." Gabrielle shifted closer and whispered, "You'll find somebody as crazy about you as you are about them. They will be so lucky, and I'll beat them senseless with my staff you gave me if they hurt you."
Ephiny laughed and moved in for a warm hug.
Gabrielle tightly held her friend. She was relieved and calmness settled over her. She withdrew and saw the few tears on Ephiny's cheeks. She wiped them away carefully.
"How's..." Ephiny cleared her throat first and gathered herself. "How's Xena making out?"
"She's alright."
"I imagine it's hard for her," Ephiny debated. "But it's probably a lot easier than if you weren't here."
Gabrielle wondered if Ephiny hadn't spoken to Yakut about it, but she knew that wasn't the case. "It'll get easier too." She then asked, "Seven finished her punishment last night?"
"Yes," Ephiny confirmed. "I'm sure she's exhausted tonight."
"Most likely." Gabrielle then ordered, "You should get to bed, Ephiny."
"I hope you're doing the same."
"Soon." Gabrielle then leaned against her staff to help her ankle. "I'll see you in the morning."
"Alright." Ephiny headed towards her hut's door that was far. "Sleep well."
"You too." Gabrielle straightened up and started to Seven and Andra's hut. She wanted to catch up with the automaton. She had something itching in the back of her mind that she needed to ask Seven. After she was called to enter the hut, she stepped through the doorway and shut the door behind her.
"Good evening, sister." Andra came over to the queen and gave her a quick hug. "How'd it go with Cyane up at the table?"
Gabrielle sighed and leaned into her staff. "It was a bit tense."
"The Conqueror didn't draw her sword though," Andra jested.
"I thought I was going to," the queen argued.
The blacksmith smirked and tenderly patted her blood sister's cheek. "That's my little sister."
Gabrielle rolled her eyes but asked, "Where's Seven?"
Andra turned her head to the washroom.
The queen slightly jumped as the automaton just appeared in the doorway of the washroom.
"Good evening, Gabrielle," the stoic automaton greeted.
Gabrielle was dumbfounded because she'd never seen Seven of Nine's hair down until tonight. She composed herself. "How are you, Seven?"
"I'm oper..." Seven sighed and altered her choice of words. "I'm well."
"She's a bit tired," Andra taunted. She folded her arms and smirked at the automaton. "Those long candlemarks on being patrol these past nights have caught up to Seven."
The automaton gradually inclined her metallic eyebrow at the blacksmith. "Indeed."
Gabrielle had a slight grin, but she turned to her blood sister. "You must have slept well last night... you're relentless tonight."
The blacksmith chuckled and wiggled her eyebrows.
The bard shook her head but asked Seven, "I'd like to talk to you. Do you have some time?"
Seven of Nine nodded then went back into the washroom.
Gabrielle edged closer to the blacksmith. "How are you two making out?"
"Great." Andra shrugged and honestly added, "We get along fine."
"Good." Gabrielle's head bobbed a few times. She then straightened up when the automaton came over to her.
Seven of Nine had her hair back in a bun and pinned into place. She still had her sword on her back but she grabbed her black leather duster.
"We'll be back shortly," the queen promised to Andra.
"Yeah," Andra teased, "don't steal my tall, blue-eyed woman... you have one back in your hut."
Gabrielle let Seven go past, and she looked back at her blood sister as she closed the door. She devilishly needled, "I'm Seven's favorite anyway." She stuck out her tongue then swiftly shut the door.
Andra dropped her head back and laughed at the image of Gabrielle that would remain in her head forever.
Seven of Nine shrugged on her duster but didn't bother to button the toggles. She instead took the queen's side and walked through the huts with her.
Gabrielle now felt the chill in the night, but she tried to ignore it. "You completed all your candlemarks of patrol duty for breaking protocol?"
"Yes," Seven affirmed.
The queen nodded. She studied their surrounding area and spotted a few trees in the distance and set away from the huts. She beelined to them. "I need to ask a favor of you, Seven." She had her head low. "Perhaps it's more of a commitment than anything." She raised her head and glimpsed up at the automaton.
Seven of Nine could tell it was important and possibly private.
"First," Gabrielle started, "I think you need to understand some things before I get into what it is I need from you." She composed her thoughts and took a deep breath. "The Conqueror and I... Xena and I, we grew up together as kids. We were very close, and our relationship was constantly evolving and developing."
The automaton carefully listened to the queen. She considered where this may lead.
"After awhile, I figured out some things about Xena and how she felt about me. I realized that Xena had a very dangerous temper, and I never saw it for quite awhile. I guess I saw fragments of it, but I wasn't concerned." Gabrielle slowed down because they came under the canopy of trees. She turned to the automaton and gazed up at her. "Then I started to notice how protective she was of me. It kind of started out really small but overtime it's just progressed. And maybe I didn't help it much because I enjoyed it when I was young."
"You do not enjoy it now?" the automaton tested.
Gabrielle sighed and carefully responded, "The Amazon in me that Eponin has grown does not like it. I can handle myself. But fragments from my childhood... the kid still enjoys it. If I felt there was a threat I couldn't handle then I would fall back into wanting Xena to protect me."
Seven of Nine slowly nodded despite she didn't fully understand it, but she mostly grasped the concept.
"Xena and I have been through a lot, Seven... both together and separately. Xena thought she lost me... she thought I was dead for a long time." Gabrielle paused and watched Seven's eyes for any clues to emotions. "Now that I'm back in her life, she couldn't be happier. And I can't be any happier either. She means a great deal to me."
"I understand."
Gabrielle glanced away for a beat then back at Seven. "What my point here is that the emotions Xena has for me and the relationship her and I have built is very deep. If something were to happen to me then she will sacrifice everything and anything to have me back. And if she can't get me back then she'll focus her anger on the entire world as payment."
Seven of Nine slightly raised her chin. She held her silence though.
"It almost happened once before, Seven long after she was in Cirra. I don't exactly know why it didn't turn out worse or how Yakut managed to redirect Xena." Gabrielle started to tremble, but she wasn't sure if it was from the cold or her fears. "I worry if something were to happen to me again that Xena would finally be pushed off that ledge and never come back." She clenched her jaw tightly and tried to settle herself. She turned her head away and took a few deep breaths.
The automaton, not quite accustom to raw emotions, did her best to help. She quickly removed her duster and shifted behind the queen. She settled the leather duster over the queen's shoulders and hoped it would help. She came back in front of Gabrielle.
The bard's chilled skin immediately appreciated the warmed inside of the duster. She felt a last cold chill ripple down her spine then she settled. She swallowed down the lump in her throat and peered up at the automaton. "Somehow I need to reduce the risk that Xena will revert to her darkness again. The best way for that to be reduced is if I'm safe and alive." She clenched her jaw but loosened it as she asked, "I need your help to do that, Seven. I'm asking you to protect me with whatever means necessary."
Seven of Nine remained still and carefully thought over the queen's request and reasoning. She then asked, "As an Amazon guarding the queen?"
Gabrielle felt her stomach knot at the question, but she knew the answer. She shook her head. "No, this goes beyond just the Amazon Nation... the protocol... even the Greek polis." She gripped her staff tighter. "So many people depend on Xena... as a ruler, a leader, or an ally. If that darkness claims her again then it could change everything. I can't let that happen, and Xena has so much to offer this world."
"You believe in her goodness," Seven declared.
"I know you may not see it because of what she did, Seven."
The Amazon slipped her hands behind her back in normal habit. She was obviously weighing her choice, but she finally stated, "I will comply but only for you, Gabrielle. I do not do this for Xena."
Gabrielle felt relieved and even her shoulders lowered from the removed weight. "Thank you, Seven."
The automaton dipped her head briefly. "However this may require me to break protocol."
The queen chuckled and nodded her head. "I've been thinking about that part. If you break protocol one too many times or it's something serious then it could damage your caste." She nibbled on her lower lip then mentioned, "I've been toying with the idea of devising a subsection to the military."
Seven of Nine raised her metallic eyebrow. "Perhaps a security detail?"
"Security... guards." Queen Gabrielle puckered her lips in thought. "I wouldn't mind some kind of internal security to protect the royal line."
"It would purpose an excellent cover for me," the automaton agreed.
Gabrielle softly grinned and started to like the idea. "It would give you more mobility within the protocol sense. I'll give it some thought during the trip, and if you have any thoughts let me know."
"I will comply," the Amazon promised.
"Your... link to Xena and I will come in handy," the bard reminded.
"Indeed." Seven of Nine tilted her head. "Perhaps it is why it was made."
"Perhaps," Gabrielle murmured. She then reached for the duster on her shoulders. "Let's head back, Seven." She handed back the long duster.
The automaton accepted it and easily put it on as she walked along side the queen.
"Thank you for doing this." Gabrielle was even surprised that Seven agreed to it at all.
Seven of Nine was quiet for a beat but mentioned, "Commander Kaylee once explained to me that one's greatest enemy can become one's greatest friend." She hesitated for a moment. "I did not understand her or how that is possible. But I now understand." She gazed down at the bard. "You believed in me when I could not believe in myself. You gave me my life again, another chance, and my freedom."
The bard sadly smiled as Xena's words the other night were confirmed by the automaton.
Seven then promised, "For all that you gave back to me, I will stop at nothing to protect you."
Gabrielle bit her lower lip because she knew what the defining vow meant from the automaton. She sent a prayer to any future enemy that may try to use her against Xena. They would come to discover what lethal danger it entailed. She also realized it was the most she'd ever heard from Seven at one moment.
"I... Seven..." Gabrielle stopped and faced the automaton. She grasped Seven's right hand with hers. "Thank you so much."
Seven was unsure what to do or say, but she could always fall back on her lessons from Cliona. She politely replied, "You are welcome." But then she had the urge to softly added, "My friend."
The bard squeezed the large hand in hers, and she briefly felt the steel that was attached to Seven's skin. She let go and continued the short trip to Seven's hut. "Get some sleep, Seven. I'm sure you're exhausted after two straight nights of patrol duty."
The automaton stopped in front of the door. "It was not so much the long candlemarks that are weary." She tilted her head. "But it is the boredom I suffered from."
Gabrielle laughed unexpectedly and shook her head. "I can sympathize." She offered a warm smile and said, "I'll see you in the morning, Seven."
"Goodnight, Gabrielle." The Amazon momentarily watched the queen go then she entered her warm hut.
Gabrielle had a slow walk back to her hut. She briefly wondered if Xena was already back at their hut, and she suspected so because the chimney was smoking. She felt her smile come back, and a warm emotion filled her at the thought of her best friend waiting for her.
Slowly, Gabrielle opened the door and felt relieved when the hut's heat brushed into her. She entered the fire lit hut to find her friend seated on the floor in front of the fireplace.
Xena tilted her head back and smiled at her friend. She had one leg down and crossed while her left was propped up. She was stripped of her normal attire and only wore a black shift that had several round, silver buttons stamped into it as a design.
Gabrielle had propped her staff next to the peg board then lifted her sword off her back. She hooked it on a peg then came over to the ruler. "Hi."
Xena gave a soft smile. "Hey."
"How are the hoplites?" the bard inquired. She headed to her saddlebags and routed around for her nightshift.
"They're settled in." The Conqueror watched her friend's back. "It seems Cyane is feeling gracious as well."
"Oh?" the bard prompted.
"Mmmm." Xena leaned her head back against the footboard. "She gave my hoplites several hot dishes for dinner."
"That is nice." Gabrielle passed by the ruler and went to the washroom to change plus get cleaned up. "I'm sure they loved it."
"Mmmm," the ruler agreed. "You were gone for awhile. Is everything alright?"
"Yes," Gabrielle called from the washroom, "I just had some things to go over with Ephiny. Then I visited with Andra and Seven for a bit." She omitted her talk with Seven because she decided it was something just between her and Seven.
"How does Seven seem to be making out?"
The queen had her shift on as she came to the washroom's doorway. She leaned against the doorway and held a towel in her left hand. "I think she's doing well. I'm glad she and Andra are in the same hut." She disappeared back into the candlelit washroom and finished up.
"They seem to get along."
"They do," Gabrielle agreed. She came back out with her sharp red outfit and set down the folded articles on the table. She then hastily unlaced her boots.
Xena climbed to her feet and went to the fire after she realized her beaten, copper kettle was shooting off steam. She grabbed the wood handle and lifted it off the small hook.
Gabrielle came over and became curious. "What's in the mugs?"
The ruler grinned and merely ordered, "Sit down, nosy."
The bard chuckled, yet she did as she was told and took a seat on the floor in Xena's earlier spot.
Xena was knelt beside the fire and poured the steaming water into the two mugs. She set the kettle aside then picked up the wood mugs gingerly. She came over to the bard and held down the left mug to her.
Gabrielle received the mug and was instantly surrounded by an interesting smell. "What is this?" She sniffed the light contents, but she couldn't figure out what was in the hot water.
The Conqueror set her mug to the side then managed to sit behind the bard.
Gabrielle scooted forward some. She was surprised that Xena wanted to be behind her, but she didn't argue it either.
"It's called tu."
The bard furrowed her eyebrows and peered into the mug. "Tu?" She knew the word wasn't Greek. "So what exactly is... tu?"
Xena chuckled and leaned forward. She had yet to retrieve her mug, which was fine because she liked her tu to brew. "It's a type of plant in Chin."
"Oh." Gabrielle cocked her head and crinkled her nose at the items floating in the mug. "So, are these plant leaves floating in here?" She peered deeper into it but not for long because of the steam.
Xena's grin just grew because of Gabrielle's reaction to the tu. "Yes." She tilted her head to the side so she could see around the bard's head. "It's a drink in Chin that I've thoroughly come to enjoy."
The queen pucked her lips some but then it occurred to her. "Did you import this here to Greece?"
The ruler grinned and explained, "Yes. I have a trade setup to bring the tu here, to me."
"Wow." Gabrielle smelled the tu again and decided it smelled quite nice. "You must really like it."
"Try it," Xena insisted. "Just be careful... it's still a bit hot."
The bard decided to give it try. She lifted the mug's rim to her lips then carefully sipped the still hot liquid. She at first wasn't sure what to make of the taste, and she kept moving her tongue around. She then cleared her throat.
The ruler chuckled because she saw the bard's twisted features from the side. "At first, it doesn't taste great but give it a few more tries, and it'll grow on you."
Gabrielle suspiciously eyed the mug. "I use to think you had good taste in things, Xena but... I'm starting to wonder now."
Xena quietly laughed, but she picked up her mug. She sipped on the hot, flavorful liquid.
"Does all tu taste like this?"
The Conqueror set her mug down then leaned forward again. "No, tu comes in many types and flavors. This particular one is called bai hao yinzhen."
Gabrielle shook her head and touched her forehead. "I'm awful at foreign language, Xena... you know that."
The ruler grinned but she continued to explain the tu. "It's the highest quality of white tu you can buy in Chin. It mainly comes from southern Chin... only picked between the spring equinox and summer solstice just before the rains."
"Hmmm." Gabrielle considered the information as she sipped on it again. She found it not as hot, and she drank more of it than last time. She realized the flavor was stronger and probably because it'd been brewing longer. "It's really not that bad." Gabrielle then asked, "So, how much would a handful of this tu cost?" The bard shook her head and elaborated, "In drachmas?"
Xena did a rough estimation in her head then replied, "About two drachmas... maybe three."
"By the gods," the queen gasped. She peered into the mug and wondered if she was drinking half a drachma now. "I may have to get the Nation to grow this stuff and sell it to you."
The Conqueror surprisingly laughed at the joke.
The bard had a silly gin, but she drank more of the expensive tu. She sensed it trail down to her belly, warm her insides, and sooth away her tension from the day. "Mmmm." She gave into another drink.
Xena developed a sly smile because she could tell that Gabrielle was enjoying the tu now. She also drank more of hers and soothed at the calming effect it had on her. She sighed contently.
Gabrielle set her almost empty mug aside then she leaned her head back against Xena's shoulder. She propped up her legs and closed her eyes.
The Conqueror had finished off her tu and put the mug down. She slid her right leg under Gabrielle's propped up ones. She then snaked her arms around the bard's warm stomach.
Gabrielle sensed Xena's head gently against hers, and she smiled. She shifted her left hand to rest on the ruler's muscular leg.
"So what did you have in mind for the Gossip Queen?"
"Tomorrow," the bard whispered. She was enjoying her current position too much.
Xena chuckled and closed her eyes just as she leaned her head against the footboard.
Gabrielle had to lean back some because Xena shifted. She sunk down a little and rolled her head to the left so that her forehead pressed into Xen's neck.
"You going to fall asleep on me?"
"Possibly," the queen muttered.
"How's the ankle?" The ruler was still concerned about it.
"Better." Gabrielle sighed deeply. "I should be okay without the ointment tonight."
Xena silently agreed. She said nothing else and instead enjoyed the quiet night that they spent together, and alone. She recalled nights like these but typically they were either in Herodotus's barn or out in the fields under the stars.
Eventually, Xena found her friend fast asleep and curled into her. She gave into getting into bed so she managed Gabrielle into her arms. She then stood up and felt the relief of being off the hardwood floor. She came to the bedside and laid Gabrielle down.
The bard finally stirred and sleepily peered up at the ruler.
"Get under the covers," Xena murmured. She reached for them and started to pull them down.
Somehow Gabrielle managed to get her lethargic body under the cool sheets. She scooted aside just as Xena crawled in behind her. She turned on her side so that she faced Xena.
The Conqueror soon found her friend curled up against her again. She slipped her right arm under Gabrielle's neck and rested her left arm across Gabrielle's waist. "Sleep well, Bri."
"Mmm... you too." Gabrielle tucked her face under Xena's chin and dozed back off.
Xena softly grinned then slowly made her way to her dreamscape as well. Despite the uncomfortable circumstance with being in the Thrace Amazon Nation, Xena couldn't think of a better way to end her day.
To be continued.
Continued.