Disclaimer: This number involves some pretty graphic sex and a VERY frustrated/annoyed bard. No violence unless thoughts count, because Janeway would be dead. This is my first story not based on an episode, so be kind!

Penname: WarriorKym
E-Mail: WarriorKym@Hotmail.com

     Gabrielle yawned and rolled over opening her eyes. Her hand stretched out for Xena, but to her surprise Xena wasn't beside her. Lately they'd started sleeping much closer, so they could comfort each other when the nightmares started. So many nightmares. Gabrielle's had stopped about a week ago, but Xena's continued. Gabrielle still felt the pain of Perdicus' death, but it was so much less now. Xena had helped more than she knew. They'd been staying in taverns and inns almost every night. She'd caught or found all of Gabrielle's favorite foods, tried not to make her angry, and did almost all of the work. The sun warmed Gabrielle's face as she ventured from under the blanket. Here was another small comfort: not being woken up a candlemark before dawn. Gabrielle smiled to herself as she stood up to find Xena. It was definitely time to make her move on a certain warrior princess...

     " Xena?!" she called, then couldn't help a smirk when Xena came running at her call.

     " What?! What's wrong? Did you have another nightmare?" Xena asked worriedly. Gabrielle just grinned at her. " Don't *do* that." Xena said and walked back into the bathroom. Gabrielle was up and dressed when she came back out, much to Xena's amazement.

     " You're up early. Usually I have to pry you out of bed just to be gone by noon." Xena commented wryly.

     "Yeah, well, I feel better." Gabrielle said.

     Xena looked surprised and by the expression on her face, Gabrielle could tell she'd caught the double meaning in her words.

     " Sooo..." She drawled lazily, " breakfast?"

     " Huh? Oh yeah, sure. Breakfast." Xena agreed distractedly. She watched Gabrielle walk for the door. She had planned to get to Thalmed by evening, but now, only the Gods knew what was going to happen.

     Breakfast went by without much mishap. Gabrielle sat very close to her, but Xena found it didn't annoy her like it usually did. In fact, nothing at all happened that whole morning. They ate, packed up, helped a man with his cart, and got going. Gabrielle prattled all morning long. Xena was happy to see that. Gabrielle had been getting closer and closer to her old self over the previous two weeks. Xena had hardly been able to notice a difference this last week. Gabrielle would be forever changed of course, but at least she was happy again. And today, apparently, she'd decided she was finished being a lonesome widow. She wasn't being too obvious, but Xena could see the wheels turning in the bard's head and a plan forming. Xena shook her head slightly with a chuckle as she looked down at her friend from her position on Argo, wondering what she was thinking.

     Gabrielle was in fact thinking out her scheme to conquer Xena. Being a natural bard, she was planning every move and how fast she should take it.

     " I don't care! I'm not doing it, That's ridiculous!"

     " Captain. This isn't request. As your doctor, I'm ordering you to take a vacation. At least visit the holodeck!" The doctor ordered. Captain Janeway stood with her arms crossed and a defiant eyebrow raised.

     "Please Captain?" he asked, losing his superior attitude for a minute. " It's for your own good."

     " Oh all right." Janeway gave in. " But," she said, raising her notorious finger at him. " I won't forget this." and she walked out of sickbay leaving a very worried Doctor behind her.

     " Kathryn? Kathryn, I know you're in there." No response from the Captain's quarters.

     " Kathryn! The computer located you and so I know you're in there and I'm going to beam you out if you don't open this door right-"

     The door opened with the customary breath of air.

     "...now." Chakotay finished somewhat self consciously as he stepped inside. " See," He smiled. " I knew you were in here."

     Captain Janeway was stretched out across her couch. She quickly started rubbing her temple with one hand and put the other arm across her eyes as he approached.

     " Chakotay, I have a horrible headache, I can't go." She said, peeking at him from under the arm.

     " Liar." he grinned." And if you do, the Doctor can take care of that for you." She glared at him as he encouraged. " Come on. It'll be good for you. Neelix and Seven are waiting for you." he held out his hand. She groaned and took it, allowing herself to be pulled up.

     " I'll remember this Chakotay." She threatened, trying to lay back down.

     " Don't make me get Tuvok." He threatened right back with a smile and walked her down to the holodeck with Tuvok, who was waiting outside (mostly because he didn't think Chakotay could convince her). As they approached, they saw Neelix, Seven, The Doctor, and B'Elanna outside it.

     " You know this counts as mutiny, don't you?" Janeway asked.

     " I agree." B'Elanna stated," I'll fight with you Captain."

     " Lieutenant Torres is just upset because she is also being forced to relax and enjoy herself for a while." The Doctor announced. " And I am here to make sure both of you go." He continued pushing them into their respective holodecks. " Have fun!" he smiled through each door, receiving withering looks on return. " Come along Commander, let's leave them to their relaxation. Be sure they don't sneak out Lieutenant." He said to Tuvok, who placed himself outside the doors. " Honestly, those two women. You'd think I'd sentenced them to death..." The Doctor commented as they walked away.

     " Oh come on Xena! Don't be such a baby." Gabrielle cooed. She was standing behind Xena and trying to give her a massage. Xena kept fidgeting and scooting around on the log she was sitting on. " Xena hold still!" Gabrielle commanded. " You know you're sore after that fight yesterday."

     Xena sighed and stopped moving, much to Gabrielle's enjoyment. " This might be easier than I thought.." Gabrielle mused as she rubbed harder. Suddenly Xena stood up and listened attentively.

     " Now what?" Gabrielle sighed.

     Xena only hushed her and quietly started for the road.

     " Oh come on Captain!" Neelix chirped. " This is for your own good. It'll be fun, you'll see."

     " Why are you here again Neelix?" Janeway asked bluntly.

     " Ah...right to the point aren't you? I'm the morale officer remember?" He said cheerfully. " It's my job. Besides-"

     " Shh." Jane way said, holding up a hand. " Someone's coming. What was this program again?"

     " A surprise, according to commander Chakotay." Seven of Nine said dryly.

     " Xena what are they? I've never seen anything that even remotely resembled them." Gabrielle whispered. Xena was about to respond when a clear, low voice called out to them.

     " Come out whoever you are. We know you're there and we mean you no harm."

      Xena shot a surprised look at Gabrielle and shrugged, then they stepped out into the road. Xena saw three very strangely dressed... people? Two didn't look like anything she'd seen before. The third, however, was one that caught her eye anyway. It was a woman of average height wearing a long sleeved jumpsuit with red shoulders. She had golden brown hair that just reached to her shoulders, a small nose, oval shaped face, and lightly tanned skin. As she walked fearlessly closer, Xena could see what a dark brown shade her eyes were and how strikingly beautiful she was.

     Xena and Gabrielle were also being appraised. Captain Janeway looked over the gorgeous woman in front of her appreciatively with little or no attention to the woman behind her. She was taller than herself and dressed in a short dress of leather with bronze armor covering it. Her long black hair stood in direct contrast of her crystal blue eyes. She was tanned a dark brown and Janeway could see her muscles ripple as she moved to intercept them. Hearing Neelix and Seven reach for their phasers, she motioned for them to stand down.

     Xena watched the last part with interest, wondering what kind of weapons they were. Her attention was drawn back to their obvious leader who was walking towards her with the air of a person used to being in charge.

     " Hello." She said smiling with perfect lips, " I'm Captain Janeway of the Starship Voyager and these are members of my crew: Seven of Nine and Mr. Neelix." The woman gestured with her hand , then held it out.

     Xena smiled back (shocking Gabrielle) and took Janeway's arm." I'm Xena and this is Gabrielle." She said simply. Gabrielle came up quickly to survey this stranger after watching the exchanging looks of admiration between Xena and Janeway.

     " Pleased to meet you." She lied taking Janeway's arm form Xena who was still holding it. " Did you say Captain? We're pretty far from any oceans right here."

     Seven stepped up when her Captain didn't answer, just turned back to Xena. " We do not sail on an Ocean." She said unemotionally to the bard. Gabrielle looked at her with surprise. The woman speaking to her was almost as tall as Xena and dressed in a very tight outfit revealing her perfect form. Her blonde hair was smoothly pulled back from a flawlessly calm face. A metal something covered one eyebrow and a portion of her face while a star shaped metal piece was on her jaw where it connected with her neck.

     " Now Seven, " Neelix admonished, " Be nice. Where exactly are we young lady?" The creature talking to her was short and rather plump. His clothes were of many bright colors and seemed to fit his cheery personality. Fur covered his jawline and stood straight up in a line on the top of his head. He had dark spots all over and a large forehead. " I'm Neelix by the way." He said with his slightly husky voice.

     " Gabrielle." She stated taking his arm and ignoring Xena's snicker at the 'young lady'. " You're in Greece. Near Thalmed. That's where we're headed."

     " But we've stopped for lunch." Xena finished for her. " Would you care to join us Captain?" " Kathryn, please." Jane way said, holding her hand up with a smile, much to Neelix and Seven's surprise. " We'd love to."

     Soon they were all sitting around the firepit together. Gabrielle had discovered Neelix was a cook and they were chatting amiably. Xena and Kathryn were talking too, while Seven sat watching everyone objectively.

     " So what exactly are you three doing here in Greece if you don't sail on the ocean?" Gabrielle asked.

     " We-uh,...Captain?" Neelix asked, stopping before he gave away more than he should.

     " It's ok Neelix." Kathryn said in that low, silky smooth voice of hers. " Xena seems very intelligent. I think they'll understand." She said tilting her head and smiling at Xena.

     " We sail the stars-" Neelix began before Seven interrupted.

     " Captain," She said deeply, " Do you think that's wise?"

     " I do." Janeway said sternly. " Neelix, continue."

     He smiled at Gabrielle and started again. " We sail the stars and travel from world to world over countless distances. We're explorers if you will. We're here now because...uh...because..."

     " Because my crew decided I needed a break." Janeway finished dryly for him.

     Gabrielle laughed. " If you're looking for a break, you chose the wrong person to team up with. Danger follows Xena like a puppy!"

     " And trouble is drawn to you like the puppy to meat." Xena countered.

     Gabrielle ignored her and directed her next question to Kathryn, trying to steal her gaze away from Xena. " So, you travel the stars...Are you Gods?" she asked.

     " Huh? Gods? No. Just explorers. And we'd love to travel with you for a while Xena." Janeway smiled sweetly at Xena, who returned the favor, showing perfect white teeth.

     " Not I." Seven said, standing up. " Permission to return to the ship Captain." She requested.

     " Seven!" Neelix said reprovingly. " We're supposed to be making sure the Captain stays! And is protected!" He scolded.

     " Neelix," Kathryn intervened. " I'm not going anywhere."

     " And I'll protect her." Xena stated, bringing a full smile from Janeway and a scowl from Gabrielle.

     " As you can see Neelix, I'm fine and well protected," she patted Xena's hand, " So go with Seven. " I'll talk to you later."

     Neelix clucked for a minute, then hurried after Seven, who had already started as soon as Captain Janeway had smiled.

     " So, what do you guys do for fun?" Kathryn asked turning to them and not removing her hand from Xena's, much to Gabrielle's annoyance.

     " Seven." Tuvok said, a little surprised though he didn't show it. " And Mr. Neelix. Aren't you supposed to be with the Captain?" he asked stiffly.

     " The Captain is flirting and well taken care of." Seven said emotionlessly and walked away with a slight flounce. Neelix laughed at the confused look in Tuvok's eyes and left to start serving lunch to his customers.

     " Flirting?" Tuvok wondered, resuming his post.

     Flirting was exactly what Janeway was doing too. Gabrielle was about ready to strangle her if she touched Xena again. All three had been walking until Xena insisted Kathryn ride Argo because it was her vacation.

     Janeway didn't complain... much. Once she was up, she didn't complain at all. The view from where she was happened to be quite good and she looked down at six feet of drop dead gorgeous warrior.

     Gabrielle knew exactly what view Kathryn had and was not pleased with the seating arrangements. She was beginning to wonder just how long the Captain was going to be with them...

     " I thought your lives were full of adventure." Janeway commented as she piled up the firewood, glad for once of her father's insistence she learn how.

     " Yeah, I guess you're just good luck." Gabrielle said sarcastically, trying to be civil. The Captain's response was cut off by Xena walking over, arms full of blankets. " Here Kathryn. You can share my bedroll." Xena offered causing Gabrielle's mouth to fall open in shock.

     " Xena!" She protested, pulling Xena aside. " We have plenty of extra blankets. Why can't she sleep on them?"

     " Gabrielle, be nice." Xena said quietly and walked away to start lying the rolls out.

     " Be nice." Gabrielle mimicked quietly. " I'm gonna be nice right upside her-" She left the last word unsaid.

     " I heard that Gabrielle." Xena called, adding to the bard's frustration both with that sentence and the fact she was leaning far over, giving a full view of her cleavage.

     " So Kathryn," Gabrielle said sweetly, determined to remove a little of this newcomer's charm. " Do you cook?"

     " Cook?" Janeway said, straightening up. " Not very often."

     " Oh good." Gabrielle thought. Aloud she said, " Wanna get in some practice?"

     To her surprise, Kathryn smiled. " Sure Gabrielle, what do you want?"

     " Oh, um..." Gabrielle said, caught off guard.

     "How about some soup?" Kathryn asked.

     " Soup?" Gabrielle started, whatever sarcastic remark she had planned was cut off by Xena's reply:

     " I love soup Kathryn!" She called.

     " Since when?" Gabrielle asked annoyed.

     " Since it was offered by a beautiful and charming woman." Xena answered smiling at Kathryn.

     Gabrielle sputtered for a minute, then began taking her anger out on an innocent potato. Xena grinned and helped them cut up ingredients with her breast dagger. The soup was soon boiling and bubbling over the fire.

     " Hmm, fire's low. I'll go get some more wood." Xena said, picking up their ax.

     " I'll help you." Kathryn offered quickly rising. " Gabrielle will watch the soup, won't you?" she smiled.

     " Sure." Gabrielle said trying to resist the urge to pour it all over this obviously perfect woman. The urge pushed much harder when Kathryn walked over to Xena with that authoritative walk and took her hand. Gabrielle quickly started planning an counter attack and contemplated putting dirt in Kathryn's soup as they disappeared into the forest.

     " Wow, you're really good at that." Janeway complimented as Xena chopped a log piece right in half.

     " Thanks." Xena smiled feeling her hear jump slightly at the words. " Wanna try?" She offered the ax to Kathryn.

     " Sure." Janeway accepted. " Never done this before." She raised the ax and neatly spliced the log ahead of her. Slightly surprised, she did another and gave a yelp of pain as something entered her finger. " Oohhh..." She winced, trying to see what it was.

     " Let me see." Xena said taking it up in her own hands. She deftly plucked out the intruding splinter and on an afterthought leaned to kiss the sore digit. Her hormones took over and she kissed it again gently. Kathryn's heart quickened and her breath caught up pace as Xena traveled up her palm.

     " I thought I was calling the shots." She gasped slightly as Xena reached her inner wrist.

     " Sorry." Xena smiled, straightening up.

     " Forgiven." Kathryn smiled back, putting her arms around Xena's neck. " After all," She grinned tracing Xena's lips with her finger, " I am the guest." She brought Xena's lips down to hers as Xena's arms circled her waist.

     " How long does it take to get firewood?" Gabrielle grumbled as she stirred the soup. " If she...If they don't get back soon, the world is going to be missing one warrior princess." She told Argo, who snorted at her. Eventually Gabrielle had to go looking for them.

     " XENA!?? KATHRYN!!??"

     Janeway stopped her descent down the warrior's neck. " I think we're being paged." She grinned from her position atop Xena.

     " Maybe if we ignore her, she'll go away." Xena moaned, bringing Kathryn's lips back up to hers.

     " XENA!!!!?? KATHRYN!!!!??? WHERE ARE YOU!??!"

     " Huh," Xena sighed breaking the kiss reluctantly. " I guess not. We'd better go." She said. They stood up, rearranged clothing, and headed back to camp intercepting Gabrielle halfway.

     " There you are!" She said. " I was getting worried."

     The three women headed back to camp and settled down. Kathryn took her jacket off, revealing a blue T-shirt underneath, then served out the soup.

     " This is delicious Kathryn!" Xena gushed. " Gabrielle?" she asked pointedly, nudging Gabrielle as she spoke.

     " Yeah, great." She muttered, noticing Xena's rumpled hair.

     Xena ignored the tone in her voice and began to unlace her boots. Gabrielle and Kathryn followed suit and undid theirs.

     " Hey Kathryn," Gabrielle said, letting her curiosity win over her jealousy. " What are those?"

     " What?" Kathryn asked, looking around confusedly.

     " Those." Gabrielle answered pointing. " On your feet."

     " Oh! Janeway laughed. " Socks, don't you have them?"

     " Huh-uh." Gabrielle said leaning over to look closer. " Xena, check it out."

     " Uhn," Xena made a noise without looking, " Great."

     " You didn't even look!" Gabrielle protested.

     Xena sighed in resignation and walked over from where she had been screwing with her armor. " What do they do?" she asked bluntly, taking Janeway's foot into her lap.

     " They, uh, ahem." Janeway tried to focus her thoughts. " They keep your feet warm and clean. Here, let me help you." She said, turning her attention away from her feet and onto Xena's armor. She easily undid the buckles and slid it over Xena's head. Xena started to thank her, but hands on the ties to her leathers stopped her. Kathryn undid the complicated ties quickly and let it drop to the ground. Xena turned around with a slight flush on her face.

     " Thanks, those can be tricky." She smiled." Let's see, you're a little taller than Gabrielle, so you'll have to wear my shirt to sleep in."

     "Good." Kathryn smiled and began getting undressed while Xena handed Gabrielle her shirt. Soon they were all reunited around the fire. Kathryn started gathering up the dishes and Xena put out a hand to stop her. " You don't have to do that."

     " I know that. Xena, I'm a Captain. This is a nice change for me." She bantered lightly, the headed for the river. Gabrielle watched her go, then slid over next to Xena.

     " Xena, " She said sweetly. " Don't you think Capt. Janeway is a little old for you?"

     " Huh?" Xena said, looking at her friend with feigned surprise. " I don't know what you're talking about."

     " Get off it Xena. You're pretty obvious."

     "I'm just trying to make her vacation comfortable and fun." Xena responded. " Besides, I like older women."

     " Yeah, whatever." Gabrielle said, not impressed by this explanation. " You know Xena " She said, putting an arm around her waist and turning Xena's face to hers. " I'm beginning to feel a little ignored." She said staring deeply into Xena's eyes. She could feel her heartbeat pick up just from the close proximity to Xena's body.

     " Oh yeah?" Xena asked slyly, covering Gabrielle's hand with her own.

     " Yeah." Gabrielle answered, stroking Xena's cheek with her hand.

     " We'll have to do something about that." Xena flirted, leaning into Gabrielle's hand. Just then Kathryn waltzed into camp and sat down next to them. Gabrielle cursed under her breath and moved slightly away from Xena. The warrior's incredible hearing picked up the curse and she grinned evilly. " This is going great!" she thought.

     " So Kathryn." Gabrielle started, determined to downplay this woman's perfection. " Tell us about yourself." she requested.

     Kathryn pulled her eyes over to Gabrielle and shook her hair put of her face. " Really not much to tell." She said in that low sensuous voice and stretched out her now bare legs in front of her.

     " Oh sure there is." Gabrielle pushed ignoring that thought that drifted through her head about how great Kathryn's legs looked. " Like...how old are you?" she asked. " Ha! Let's see just how much older Xena can stand." Gabrielle thought.

     " How old are *you*?" Kathryn countered.

     "Twenty-six" Gabrielle said simply.

     " So that would make you?" Kathryn drawled, leaning up into Xena's face sweetly.

     " Twelve." Xena grinned.

     " Tsk. Too young for me." Kathryn teased, pulling back.

     " Oh, well, in that case, " Xena smiled reaching for her and pulling her back. " Fifty-six." she flirted.

     " Tch!" Gabrielle clicked, annoyed with this new form of flirting. " She's twenty-seven." She stated, " How old are you Kathryn?"

     " How old do *you* think I am?" Kathryn asked, never moving her eyes from Xena's.

     " Oh! Uh..." Gabrielle stuttered, unprepared for that turntable. " I, uh, thirty-two? thirty-three?" she guessed. " Xena, what do you think?"

     " Hmm," Xena smiled and pulled Kathryn's lips to hers. She carefully explored them until the Captain was breathless. " I'd say thirty-six..." She kissed her lightly one more time. "And a half."

     " That's amazing." Janeway breathed.

     " I have many skills. Want me to show you how I find your birthday?" Xena smiled purposefully. Kathryn's reply was lost because a very annoyed Gabrielle stood up.

     " Time for bed." She commanded flatly.

     Xena helped Janeway up, the banked the fire and settled Argo for the night. Gabrielle and Kathryn were already laying down. Gabrielle fuming and Kathryn watching her with a amusement. Xena slipped in beside Kathryn and wished Gabrielle goodnight. Gabrielle just snorted and rolled over.

     " I think she's annoyed with you." Kathryn teased.

     " You have a talent for stating the obvious." Xena teased right back and laid down. About a minute later she reopened her eyes to find Kathryn propped up on an elbow watching her.

     " Interesting?" Xena smiled.

     " Very." Kathryn said and leaned over to kiss her cheek. Xena moved last minute and she ended up kissing her lips. " Ok," She thought and ran her tongue over Xena's lower lip. She felt Xena's lips part and deepened the kiss. Xena gasped slightly and moved her hand onto Kathryn's neck, then gasped again as Janeway did the same. She could feel her fingers slowly slip down her front as they kissed, and move underneath her sleepshirt. Janeway's legs intertwined with hers and she moved her hand from her hip down the length of Kathryn's side. She could feel Kathryn's electric touch moving closer to her breasts and shut her eyes with pleasure at the thought. " Older women, definitely." she thought, " More experience." Suddenly a beep was heard and a man's voice.

     " Chakotay to Capt. Janeway."

     " Ugh," Kathryn groaned. " Your jacket is talking." Xena laughed.

     " Quiet you." Janeway commanded sweetly and crawled away from the warmth and over to her combadge.

     " Janeway here." She said, rather annoyed.

     " Captain. I've got some work orders here that need your thumbprint and authorization code." Chakotay's voice informed.

     " Can't it wait commander?" Janeway asked severely.

     " Well...yes, but I thought you'd enjoy an excuse to end your sentence early?" His voice sounded confused.

     " No thank-you. Janeway out." she tapped her badge quickly before he could inquire, walked back over to Xena, and slid in beside her. Xena was already asleep, much to her frustration. An idea slipped through her mind and she softly kissed Xena while she drew her leg up hers. Xena stirred with a soft murmur. Encouraged, Kathryn trailed kisses down her jawline to her neck and down her collarbone while she slipped her hands onto Xena's stomach. Xena flinched, opening crystal blue eyes at her. " Your hands are cold!" She whispered.

     " I know." Kathryn informed her. " That's why they're on *your* warm stomach." She smiled innocently.

     " That was odd." Chakotay said to no one in particular.

     " What was odd?" Seven demanded.

     He looked at her startled, perhaps that he'd said that out loud. " I gave Captain Janeway a good chance to get out of the Doctor's punishment early and she snubbed me." He answered wrinkling his forehead in thought.

     " Captain Jane way is flirting currently and thus, is busy." Seven informed him unemotionally.

     " Flirting?" Chakotay was now very confused. " In a Da Vinchi program?"

     Seven rained an eyebrow inquisitively at him. " The program running is not a Da Vinchi program." She stated.

     " That's what I picked when the Doctor asked me to." Chakotay said. " So what *is* playing?" he asked. Slight jealousy showing.

     "Unknown." Seven said, not helping him. " Hmm, maybe I'll just head down there. Tom, you have the bridge." He said, heading for the turbolift.

     "Mmm, Kathryn, that feels wonderful."

     Gabrielle woke up with a start. Turning quickly, see could see Janeway rubbing Xena's shoulders. Embarrassed and angry, she turned over and tried to sleep. The thrashing in the bedroll next to her wasn't helping much. She could hear them getting further and further and almost felt the passion radiating her way. " I can't take this!" She thought and let out a loud snore.

     " I think that was a hint." Xena was heard to whisper and the thrashing stopped.

     " Ignore it." Kathryn whispered back, pulling Xena to her.

     Gabrielle snored again, louder than before.

     Xena chuckled softly and Janeway sighed. " Definitely later, right?" She asked, rolling off Xena.

     " That's a promise. " Xena smiled and draped her arm over Kathryn as she snuggled up against her front. Gabrielle groaned to herself. " Not if I can help it!" She thought.

     Kathryn woke up to bright light shinning on her eyes. Confused, she opened her eyes, thinking she had left the lights on in her quarters again. Instead, sunlight poured in. " Ut-oh." She thought, feeling a body draped partially over her. " What have I done?" She looked down at the hand beside her. Remembrance rushed through her and she smiled. She shifted slightly until she could kiss the hand. Xena murmured and moved off her.

     " Good Morning." Janeway said sitting up and leaning over her.

      " Uhm, Morning." Xena groaned, coming back to Earth. She stretched and sat up. "Hi." she whispered happily, realizing where she was.

     " Hi yourself." Kathryn grinned. " So, what do you do for breakfast around here?"

     Xena laughed and nudged Gabrielle with her foot. " She usually does it, but I think she's mad at me."

     " I'm not mad. I'm sleeping." Gabrielle's voice said, muffled by the blankets she was talking through.

     " No worries sleepy. I'll do it." Xena told her, rubbing her back through the fur. Gabrielle felt her heart swell with happiness and forced herself to sit up. She caught a glimpse of Xena as she walked away and yelled after her, " Salmon!" knowing Xena's idea of breakfast. She watched as Xena shook her head in amusement on her way to the river.

     " Good morning." She greeted Kathryn, feeling kindly towards everyone for some strange reason.

     " Morning Gabrielle. What time is it?"

     " Hmm? Oh, um, about a candlemark after dawn."

     Kathryn was about to ask what time that was, when her first officer interrupted again. " Chakotay to Janeway."

     Gabrielle looked around startled. " Who's there?" she called.

     Kathryn smothered a grin, " That's just one of my crew."

     " Where?" asked a very confused bard. Kathryn decided it would be easier to show her and walked over to where she'd left her jacket the other night. " Janeway here."

     " Captain, did you lock the Holodeck door?"

     " Yes commander. Why?" Janeway said patiently.

     " Oh...well. I just came to check on you." Chakotay kept talking and Kathryn sighed because a dripping wet Xena walked up then (holding two fish) and she was too busy to greet her. " Wait, one more time, why were you trying?"

     " Your girlfriend is talking to her shirt." Gabrielle giggled to Xena as she approached. Xena looked startled over at Janeway, then grinned at the frustrated look on her face. She smiled back at Gabrielle and set the fish down, successfully changing the subject. " Salmon, as you requested Madame." She bowed slightly.

     " Very good slave." Gabrielle mocked, " maybe I'll keep you after all." She smiled and started gutting one fish while Xena took the other. Kathryn was still arguing with her "shirt"

     " Chakotay! I don't know! Stand by, let me check something." She ordered annoyed. " Computer, freeze program." She said loudly. Gabrielle and Xena blinked at her startled, then at each other. When she did it again, Gabrielle started to giggle and Xena smirked.

     Janeway looked at them very confused, then tried a new approach. " Computer? Which program is running?"

     " Unavailable information." an older woman's voice came out of nowhere leaving Gabrielle and Xena looking about.

     " Computer, *is* a program running?"

     " Negative"

     Janeway looked at the two women who were staring at her. " Computer, " She said slowly, " How many life signs are there in Holodeck two?"

     " There are four lifesigns in area of closest proximity."

     " Um, Chakotay?" she said, reaching for her combadge. " We might have a problem..."

     " I don't understand." Gabrielle said again. " How could you fit all of Greece on your ship? Even pictures of it.?"

     " Gabrielle..." Xena started.

     " No wait Xena. If what I just said is true, you should be able to leave the holodeck. I can explain much better out there." Kathryn said, stopping her.

     " I thought you said we would evaporate if we went out of this room." Xena said standing protectively over Gabrielle.

     " Normally you would, but now..."

     Xena sighed and looked very unconvinced. Kathryn stood up in front of her." Xena please. " She said, taking her hands. " We want to know what has happened and, " She said, rubbing her fingers over Xena's, " I really want to show you my world. You've shown me yours." She leaned against Xena's muscular form sweetly.

     " What about Argo?" Xena asked.

     " We'll leave her here with the ...uh... program running. She'll be fine."

     " Come on Xena. This sounds like fun." Gabrielle encouraged. Xena raised her eyebrow at the 'fun' part, but picked up her leathers to get ready.

     " Yea!" Gabrielle shouted, sounding like a little girl. All three were quickly ready to go. Xena was a little reluctant to leave all their belongings and her horse to anyone who might happen along. Finally Capt. Janeway had to bring in a security guard to keep watch. They'd long since pried the door open. Gabrielle started to look a little nervous as people in multi-colored uniforms passed by looking in at them.

     Xena walked out fearlessly, making sure she was before Gabrielle. She could feel her heartbeat pick up as she passed through, but she did pass through. Once on the other side, she silently let out the breath she'd been holding and looked back to the others with a smirk.

     Gabrielle was less scared now, but not much. It was the admiring looks Chakotay and B'Elanna were giving Xena that forced her out. Janeway followed her and began making introductions.

     " Come on Xena." Janeway said, taking Xena's hand. " I'll show you around. Briefing at 0900, " she told the crew. " I expect answers by then." She stated and headed off.

     " Wow! You can just order them around like that?" Gabrielle inquired trotting after them. " It sure is...shiny in here. What do all these buttons do? Whoa! Why is that guy blue!?" Gabrielle prattled on, not waiting for any answers. " Xena, what do you think?" she said finally stopping her barrage of questions.

     " Too tight." Xena mumbled. " I hate tight places." She said in disgust.

     " That could be a problem." Janeway said, coming to a stop in front of the turbolift, which opened for them.

     " I'm not getting in that." Xena stated, planting her feet obstinately and folding her arms across her chest.

     " O-o-o-k-k-a-y-y." Janeway said slowly. " You're going to love this then." She grinned and tapped her badge. " Transporter room one, three to beam directly to the bridge."

     " Beam?!" Gabrielle started, then suddenly found herself standing in a large room with two levels of differing heights. All around were glossy black screens with bright lights on them. Many doors were all around and three large black chairs were on the lower level. She gasped as she looked ahead of her to a huge black...window? showing millions of stars and bright swirling gases. It was a bit too much when a man with pointed large ears approached her and she fell into Xena's arms.

     " She's fainted." Xena said in surprise as she took in her surroundings. " How did we get here?" She asked breathlessly, her face showing true astonishment, a rarity in any time period.

     " Can you-?" Janeway started as Tuvok lifted Gabrielle from Xena." ..carry her?" she finished stubbornly.

     " Hey! Give her back!" Xena said advancing on Tuvok.

     " Illogical. I am many times as strong as you. You cannot support her body weight." He said bluntly.

     " Watch me." She hissed, moving closer and reaching for her sword.

     " Unlikely. I will be-" she grabbed his arm, stopping his know-it-all speech,

     " Xena clam down. I trust Tuvok. Carry her to my ready room." She ordered. Xena followed, annoyed and fingering her sword. The doors opened for them and Tuvok, under Xena's scrutinizing eyes, laid Gabrielle on the couch that curved along the wall.

     " Dismissed." Janeway said after he stood up.

     " Captain. I believe it would be prudent-"

     " Dismissed Tuvok."

     " Yes Captain." He said with a nod and went to exit, brushing by Xena who moved her leg slightly, tripping him. He looked at her and she widened her eyes and raised her eyebrow, inviting him to try something. Much to her dismay, he sucked in a breath and walked out stiffly.

     " I think I made a new friend." Xena grinned and resheathed her sword. Kathryn frowned at her from across the room and shook her head in mock dismay. " How is she?" Xena asked, walking over.

     " She'll be all right. It was just a little to much for her." Janeway said after looking at her. Xena smiled to hide her worry, crossed over to one of the windows, and stared out. She could see Janeway's reflection coming before Janeway wrapped her hands around her waist and leaned into her back.

     " So what do you think so far?" she asked in a gravely voice. Xena turned in her arms and kissed her for an answer. " It's different." she said after a minute.

     " Good different or bad different?" Kathryn murmured into Xena's neck, working her way down.

     " It's.....umnh..." Xena groaned as Kathryn's lips brushed the tops of her breasts.

     " Have I mentioned how much I love this outfit?" Kathryn teased, going lower. Xena rubbed her hands up and down Janeway's back erotically, unable to answer. A throat being cleared turned their heads to Gabrielle, who was sitting up.

     " I think you mentioned it.." She muttered. " Where are we?"

     "In my ready room. You fainted." Kathryn answered.

     Gabrielle's memory started to reassert itself and she stood up. " Where'd that wood nymph go?" she asked.

     " Wood nymph?" Kathryn said confused.

     " The jerk with the ears." Xena explained and Gabrielle nodded.

     Janeway chuckled slightly. " That's Tuvok. He's a Vulcan. Let's go back out. I'll finish showing you around." Kathryn smiled and took Xena's hands.

     And so the whole day went. Capt. Janeway showed them the ship after the briefing, which neither Gabrielle nor Xena understood a word of. The more she showed, the more amazed they became. Eventually, Kathryn had to have Seven walk around with them to explain things.

     Xena managed to ride in the turbolifts after Tuvok (the two had become fast friends after discussing 'pinch' techniques) showed her a mediation exercise. The mess hall particularly fascinated Gabrielle, while Xena was enthralled with the weapons room. She made Tuvok explain each weapon to her, how they worked, and how to use them. Kathryn was beginning to think she might never get her out of there, when Gabrielle suggested lunch.

     Neelix made it a point to have them sample almost everything he made. When even Gabrielle couldn't eat anymore, they left with his promise to send more up later. They were so stuffed, walking was a chore.

     " Do you want your own quarters Gabrielle? Or will you be staying with Xena and me?" Kathryn asked while they were in the turbolift. Xena was concentrating hard and thus, didn't hear the question. Gabrielle wondered briefly if Xena herself knew they were sharing a ...room? " Just what is a quarters?" she thought. Either way, she wasn't going to let Kathryn and Gabrielle be alone in one. They'd already gone far enough in her mind.

     " I'll stay with you two Kathryn. I don't want to be any trouble."

     " Are you sure? It's really not a problem" Kathryn encouraged.

     " I'm sure. Thanks for asking." Gabrielle said politely as the lift opened.

     Kathryn's quarters, being the Captain's quarters, were very very nice. Gabrielle whistled admiringly as she walked in. " Thank-you Gabrielle." Kathryn said dryly , sitting down and removing her boots and jacket.

     " Hey Kate, you've got a really great view here. Oooh! what language are these in? I've never seen it before." Gabrielle rambled.

     " English." Kathryn said, removing the book fro her. "Don't call me Kate." She added sternly. She caught a glimpse of Xena in the bedroom and reluctantly left Gabrielle alone with her things.

     "Tsk, Tsk Xena. What *are* you doing in here?" Kathryn asked, mock angrily.

     " Ah, sorry Captain." Xena said in very dignified voice considering she was sprawled across the bed on her back. " The bed just looked so comfy." ( I know, I know, 'comfy' from Xena? But it happened.)

     " Is that so?" Kathryn asked climbing on top of her. Xena never got a chance to answer because a scream from the other room brought them running. As they entered, they noticed a stream of water trickling in from the bathroom. Terrified, Xena rushed in to find Gabrielle standing under a waterfall coming out of nowhere.

     " XENA! Check this out! It's warm!" She grinned. " I just walked over and all this water started pouring out."

     Xena out her hand under it, " Kathryn? What is this?" she asked intrigued.

     " A sonic shower." she grinned. " You're supposed to activate the drain to prevent that." She said, pointing to the stream of water trailing out. " And usually Gabrielle, you shower without your clothes on."

     " Hmm, wanna try?" Xena invited with a wink.

     " How do I make it stop?" Gabrielle interrupted.

     Kathryn smirked and touched a panel lightly causing the water to stop. " What size are you Gabrielle?" she asked as she walked out.

     " Huh? Size?" a dripping Gabrielle asked, following her.

     " Oh Gabrielle! Not on my carpet, Xena, could you kindly keep her in there with you?" Janeway called. " Computer " She told the replicator, " I need a hmm...size...three ensign uniform."

     " Field for uniform?" the computer's voice asked.

     Kathryn looked at Gabrielle who was busy dripping on Xena. " Crew Relations." she told the computer with a smirk. A blue shouldered uniform materialized. Kathryn picked it up and handed it, along with a towel, to the flirting bard. " We'll leave. You can change in here." She said.

     " I'll stay." Xena offered from within Gabrielle's arms.

     " No you won't." Kathryn stated, pulling her away with her to Gabrielle's annoyance.

     " Problems Kathryn?" Xena asked innocently.

     " Very funny Xena. Thirsty?"

     " A little. More hungry than thirsty. " Xena answered meaningfully.

     " How can you possibly be after all that food?" Kathryn teased.

     " Hmm, good point. Port." Xena stated.

     " Xena, I was kidding."

     " Acknowledged." Xena said, trying to imitate Seven's facial expressions. " However, I required a glass of port from you. If you can not provide that service, a simple negative would suffice."

     " Oohhh. very good. You've been paying attention. Computer, port." Janeway ordered. " Your beverage Madame." She announced, presenting the glass to Xena with a flourish. " And you Gabrielle?" she asked, hearing her coming.

     " I feel silly Kate!" Gabrielle said, determined to annoy her. " And I don't want to wear this top thing."

     " Gabrielle! You look great!" Xena commented taking in the close fitting black slacks and blue clinging T-shirt. " Uh...you look good too..." Xena said at Kathryn's stare, suddenly feeling uncomfortable. A chiming noise alarmed her, causing an action pose with her chakrum raised defensively.

      " It's the door Xena." Kathryn chuckled. " Come!" she called and the doors split.

     " Ah Captain. Ladies." Neelix bowed. " I thought Ms. Gabrielle might enjoy helping me with dinner in my kitchen."

     " She would love that, wouldn't you Gabrielle?" Xena insisted pushing her towards the furry man. " I bet there will be lots of people to listen to your stories." She encouraged. " Kathryn and I need some alone time." She whispered into Gabrielle's ear, sure of the response she would get.

     " Xena!" Gabrielle hissed.

     " Later. We'll come down and hear you okay?" she said as she pushed her out.

     " But Xena!-" Gabrielle protested. Realizing she was inevitably going to be excused, she called through the door, " See you later Katie!"

     " Charming woman." Kathryn commented as the doors shut.

     " She's just doing it to annoy you." Xena said.

     " Naturally Janeway agreed. " Now, " She continued, " Didn't you say something about being hungry?" She asked. leaning up against Xena's form. " A good Captain always takes care of the needs of her crew." She said, drawing a finger down Xena's arm. Xena shivered in response and anticipation. " I think you need special attention, right Xena?" she asked, bringing her hands to a stop on Xena's leathered waist.

     " I think you're right Kathryn." Xena said with a definite catch to her voice. " Very Very right." She assured her, kissing Kathryn's cheeks, then chin.

     " You know Xena." Kathryn commented, unbuckling the armor Xena'd refused to leave in the holodeck. " I think I've been very patient, " She dropped the armor and sword with a thud. " Don't you?" Xena managed a nod. " And," she continued as she loosened the ties on Xena's leathers and set her chakrum on the table. "I'm not a patient person naturally." She said as she removed one gauntlet, then the other and massaged the area where they'd been. Her touch on Xena's skin was like fire and she moved her own hands to Kathryn's clothing, not quite sure how to remove it, but damn the gods if she wasn't going to try.

     Meanwhile Janeway slid her warm hands up Xena's muscled arms and took off her arm bands. " So..." She continued, then stopped suddenly and walked away. Xena followed her, slightly confused, slipping off her boots on the way. Janeway was sitting provocatively on the bed, taking off her socks. " Don't you think I deserve to be rewarded?" she finished.

     " Oh yeah." was Xena's only comment while she walked over to a standing position in front of Kathryn. " I think, " she said, starting where Kathryn had left off, " You should be richly rewarded. Now," she said, trying to look puzzled, " What can I do to reward you?" she mused, dropping her leathers down to her feet.

     " That's definitely a start." Kathryn said, rather out of breath at the sight of Xena in only her light shift. Xena smiled seductively and laid her back on the bed, leaning over a little further, giving Janeway a clear view down her shift. " You are wearing far too much clothing." She announced as she found the zipper holding the tight shirt onto Kathryn. Being Xena, she quickly figured it out and pulled the shirt off.

     " I think you're ri-right." Kathryn's words stumbled out as Xena's lips found her collarbone. She felt her lips travel down with wet kisses to the tops of each breast, while her hands unzipped the back of her pants. Xena became a little preoccupied figuring out just how that one worked, but Kathryn's hands on her breasts quickly brought her back. She gasped as warm fingers kneaded through the thin leather and pinched her nipples lightly. She tried to concentrate on drawing Kathryn's pants down, but she was getting more and more distracted. When she eventually got them off, Kathryn's talented hands had caused a warm flood to begin building up inside her. She kissed her way back up to her lips and began sucking on each one in turn. Janeway broke the kiss for just a minute to whisper for her to turn over.

     Hard as it was, Xena complied and Kathryn was immediately over her removing her shift. Xena gasped as Kathryn's lips closed over her nipple and her leg brushed against her bare one. Her lips never left her breasts as her hand traveled over Xena's firm stomach. Xena's hands reached around Kathryn's back to undo the clasps of her bra and remove it. Full breasts hung barley out of her lips reach and Xena quickly readjusted herself so she could reach. The touch of her mouth momentarily distracted Janeway and she leaned in against Xena, rubbing the warriors breast with her free hand. Regaining some semblance of control, she slid Xena's underwear off, parted her legs with her other hand and began to caress Xena's inner thigh. Xena moaned softly, then louder as Janeway's fingers started massaging her clit roughly. Kathryn moved her lips down the path her fingers had taken and greedily leaned down to lick Xena's open, swollen lips. Xena cried out and her body twitched with this sudden contact. Janeway continued licking and abruptly slipped one finger deep inside her lover. Xena gasped loudly and intertwined her fingers into Kathryn's hair. Janeway added two more fingers and slowly started to slip them in and out, then picked up speed as Xena whispered her name.

     Once she felt Xena's hips began to move with her, she positioned her own very swollen clit over Xena's thigh and began to rub back and forth. The wetness of her lover only served to push Xena deeper into the throws of passion. Kathryn picked up pace and felt Xena's muscles begin to tighten on her hand.

     " Kathryn-ohh-ohh KATHRYN!" Xena screamed as she toppled into oblivion, sending Kathryn over the edge simultaneously. Gasping and panting, Janeway continued rotating her fingers until they both went limp.

     " G-good reward?" Xena panted, but Kathryn silenced her by covering her lips with hers and passionately kissing her. Once Xena got a chance, she rolled over and off the bed.

     " Uhm, " She stretched, " We gotta go." she said lazily sitting back down.

     " Where?" Kathryn asked, running her hand across Xena's thigh.

     " Down to listen to Gabrielle." Xena responded.

     " No offense Xena, but I'm suddenly not in the mood to go anywhere. Even for one of Gabrielle's stories."

     Xena sat looking at her with a patronizing expression. " I told her we would. We can't just leave her and not go. She'll be worried."

     " Noted." Kathryn said simply, then touched a companel near the bed. " Janeway to Neelix."

     " Yes Captain?" His cheery voice responded.

     Gabrielle is still with you, correct?"

     " She sure is. And doing a fine a right fancy job of entertaining the customers I might add."

     " Wonderful. As soon as she's finished, escort her back to my quarters." Janeway commanded kindly. She'd always had a soft spot for Neelix...and his spots.

     " Yes ma'am. Neelix out."

     Kathryn tilted her head at Xena for approval. Xena nodded and started walking out.

     " Xena? Where are you going?" Kathryn inquired lazily

     " Trying out that shower thing. Looks interesting." The reply came. Kathryn grinned and pulled her robe on, deciding to join her. The door chime stopped her mid-way. "Hmmm." She thought, looking down at herself. " Oh well. Most likely Neelix and Gabrielle anyway." She reassured herself as she walked toward the door. " Enter."

     The door opened to reveal Chakotay. " Hi Kathryn Ready to..." He looked at her robe and the disheveled rooms behind her. he shifted his weight to the other foot and narrowed his eyes slightly. " Am I interrupting something?"

     " No commander, what makes you think that?" Kathryn asked, trying to save face in front of him.

     " We were supposed to go to dinner tonight." He offered.

     " OH! " She said, remembrance seeping in. " I forgot. I'm so sorry! Can we reschedule?"

     " Well, of course Kathryn, but are you-?"

     " Great. I'll see you tomorrow then." She interrupted and Chakotay found himself on the other side of a closed door.

     " What the...?" he thought, then heard Neelix's voice.

     Commander!" he said pleasantly. " This is Gabrielle." They smiled at each other, but she didn't take his outstretched hand remembering the looks he'd been giving Xena all day. Neelix felt the tension and broke the silence asking, " So, how'd your date with the Captain go?"

     Chakotay started awkwardly to explain, but was stopped by a suddenly eager Gabrielle taking his hand. " You're dating Kathryn?" She asked excitedly.

     " Sort of.." He said confused.

     " That's wonderful!" she gushed." Just wonderful. Nice to meet you Commander chalky, I'll see you later huh?" she said, pushing the buttons Kathryn had taught her to, causing the door to open.

     " Chakotay." he corrected the disappearing bard.

     " Chakotay." She repeated. " Bye Neelix!" she called as the doors shut, leaving two stunned officers in the hall.

     " Hungry commander?" Neelix chirped pleasantly.

     Gabrielle walked in to find Kathryn sitting on a chair with her head in her hands, obviously frustrated. She looked up as Gabrielle came in. " You look happy." She commented.

     "I am" Gabrielle responded, sitting across from her. " Very." She emphasized.

     "And why is that?" Kathryn asked, not really caring.

     " Where's Xena?" Gabrielle said, changing the subject.

     " She's in the shower, why?" Janeway asked, now suspicious.

     " No reason." Gabrielle said happily, leaning over to a bowl of fruit. " So," she said casually, " I hear you and Commander Chakotay are going out." Kathryn sat up, her attention gotten. Gabrielle just smiled at her and continued eating.

     " Gabrielle-" She started with a note of warning to her voice. Xena, with excellent timing as usual, walked in then in only a towel, easily catching both women's attention.

     " Hi guys." She said, plunking down on a chair. " What's going on?" she asked, feeling the tension.

     " Kathryn's dating Comm. Chakotay." Gabrielle said casually, enjoying her position. " She missed a date tonight." She added triumphantly.

     " You didn't mention that." Xena said to Kathryn, who glared at Gabrielle, then quickly started explaining. " We're not dating perchance. Just seeing each other once in awhile." She said unconvincingly. Gabrielle, of course, piped up with, " Not what he thinks!"

     Xena normally would have been very jealous, but she wondered how much of it was true, judging by Gabrielle's tone of voice. She was still irked, but determined not to show Gabrielle that, she walked over to Kathryn and smiled at her. " I guess I'll just have to try harder then huh?" she asked, to Gabrielle's open-mouth astonishment. " Now, I'm going to need some clothes to sleep in. Ours are in the...holodeck?"

     " That, I can take care of." Kathryn said, inserting her hands into Xena's and letting herself be pulled up. She walked over to the replicator and materialized pajamas for the Greeks. Gabrielle took them out of her hands rather irritably and pulling Xena with her, headed for the bedroom.

     " Be back in a minute Katie!" she called obnoxiously.

     " Don't you even care she's dating someone else!?" she screamed at Xena once they were in. Xena was a little shocked, but kept herself calm and took her set of pajamas from Gabrielle.

     " Nope" She said flatly, picking her underwear up from the floor. Gabrielle was annoyed, but not too annoyed to notice the position of Xena's breeches. For now, she shrugged it off and started undoing the uniform she wore.

     " Why?!" She yelled.

     " Because, " Xena sighed, " because this is purely physical. After this, we go back to Greece and she stays in the stars commanding her ship. Our lives don't change!" She explained and pulled a pair of boxers on, then a tight white T-shirt. Gabrielle'd already put her assigned pajamas on, an identical T-shirt and plaid flannel pants.

     " Xena, that makes no sense!" she argued. " You're not the type to do this!"

     " I know that Gabrielle. That's exactly it. I'm not, but I'm doing it, so that means this is a dream."

     " What?!" Gabrielle asked annoyed. " Xena, why would I be in your dream? Just because you're acting stupid doesn't make it a dream." she finished.

     " It has to be Gabrielle," Xena pleaded, ' Because I..." She trailed off suddenly.

     " Because you what Xena?" Gabrielle asked frustrated.

     " Because...because...I ..care too much about you to really do something like this." Xena admitted quietly. Gabrielle stared at her in shock, then gulped, trying to make sense of the words. " Xena," She breathed, " I care about you too, so much."

     " Yeah, I know." Xena started as she turned away.

     " No Xena, " Gabrielle insisted, " You don't. More than a friend I mean." Gabrielle said, wrapping her arms around Xena's waist. " Much more." She whispered. Xena turned in her arms, shocked, and stared at her. " I guess I realized it when you almost died..." Gabrielle said quietly. " I tried to figure it out and let you know, but I was afraid...and then you started acting so cold...I thought you didn't need me..." Tears were pouring now and Xena was trying to hush her. " No listen, I...that's why I married Perdicus. He needed me and I thought you didn't...I thought you were trying to find a good way to leave me, so I did it for you...when you left...I-I..."

     Xena wrapped her arms tightly around Gabrielle and held her close. " Don't cry Gabrielle, I'm so sorry." She whispered. " I-I didn't know...not until Thessaly...then I realized...and...I told you how the fates allowed me to see my life if I'd never gone after Cortese...and I know I didn't tell you this, but you were there...so different...You were a slave and I saved you...but you were so different! So changed. All you wanted was vengeance, to kill. Your light was gone. I couldn't...I couldn't deal with that...even if it meant Lyceus dying again, I couldn't leave you like that...so I came back. But I was determined not to let you change again. And the darkness of my soul...no, let me finish." Xena said as Gabrielle tried to quiet her. " I couldn't...it would have changed you, so I tried not to let you in...a lot of good that did. I just-just hurt you more..." Xena finished, dropping her head onto Gabrielle's.

     "No Xena, no. If anyone hurt anyone, It was me. But-" she placed a finger on Xena's about to argue lips, " let's not fight ok? Come on, Katie's waiting for us." She took a hand and led Xena out of the bedroom, overjoyed at the touch of Xena's hand and the way it felt in hers.

     " And..." She said quickly, " No more flirting with her." She commanded sternly.

     " Aw, take away all my fun." Xena pouted. They both knew they had a lot to talking and figuring about to do, but it could wait. First, they had to figure out a way to get off this damned Starship!

The End

     " Well, that's that." Janeway thought, She was standing alone in the empty Holodeck. Gabrielle and Xena were gone now. Tuvok and Seven had determined it was the area of space they'd just passed through that caused the Greeks to materialize and as soon as they went back in, the program had shut down. The funny part was, the ship's memory banks held no record of any Holodeck program like that existing or ever having existed. Kathryn had researched them of course, but all the information was in the historical database, not the holodeck. Tuvok had explained it as " Unexplainable."

     " Too bad," Kathryn mused, " That's one program I would run again...without being ordered to."

     She sighed and walked out, so as not to be late for her rescheduled date with Chakotay.

     " Still..." she thought. " Who knows? Maybe we'll pass through another region of space like that...!"

The End...or is it?