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Morning had once again fallen upon Greece and within the underground shelter, both the warrioress and the bard were busily getting ready to hunt for their breakfast. Ares was still resting on the cot as they collected their things and silently made their way out of the room, through the corridor and into the sun.

The day before had been spent mostly in silence. The only words voiced throughout the entire span had been made when asking or thanking for help while taking inventory, boiling water, cooking dinner and carrying out other necessary preparations. Although the first day had been one of revelation and even disdain, the latter produced no commentary or discussion on the subjects that had been touched upon. In dealings with matters of friendship and clarity, yesterday was far from efficacious.

Gabrielle had been restless all throughout the night. Her mind had churned in a tidal wave of disillusionment, regret, remorse and realization. There were so many things she so desperately wanted to say, but each time she looked at Xena, all she saw was her friend soundly resting. The entire night had been like torture.

Now, both women made their way onto the grassy floor of the deep valley. They stood amongst wild flowers of blue and pink, spaced out by greedy weeds that raised skyward toward the sun. Gabrielle's face held a despondent expression, one that finally collapsed as she stopped and turned on her heel when Xena shut the shelter door.

"We need to talk," the bard stated matter-of-factly.

Xena lowered her head. She'd been expecting her friend to finally speak out about the other night. All throughout yesterday, she could see a storm brewing behind the bard's eyes. The warrioress wasn't exactly prepared for what a talk would produce, but she wasn't fearful of it either.

"I wondered when you were going say that."

"I had to sort some things out in my head first. I can't say I know all the answers, but I do realize what needs to be done." Gabrielle wiped an eyelash from her face and continued, "Our talk the other night, it left me... empty. I didn't know I could feel even more lost than I did before."

"I don't know why all of it came out the way it did. But, as much as it hurts to say it, those words still ring true. Gabri-"

She raised a hand. "No. You need to listen to me now." Gabrielle could see that her tone had shaken Xena considerably, but she proceeded. "You know there is so much that I resented you for. You always seem to think that your way is the only way. You push things down and don't talk about them, yet you say you trust me-"

Xena's eyes snapped up. "Whoa, now just-"

"Then, there's Eve." She trailed off seeing Xena's expression turn to one of wary anticipation. Clenching her jaw, the bard looked helplessly toward the morning sky and begrudgingly swallowed down. "Do you know how painful it was for me to see you completely joyous with the news of your child when you condemned my own? Do you know how much I hated the memories it caused? How every night I recalled all the times Hope called me 'mother' and every reaffirmation that my child was nothing but a monster?" She shuddered and exhaled as tears began to well up in her eyes.

Xena watched on in utter shock. Hope had been brought into this. As much as she wanted to deny it, she couldn't dispel the fact that what Gabrielle was now saying had crossed her mind before. She'd seen the parallels between Hope and Eve, but never did have any intention of pointing them out. Now, her best friend was essentially calling her a hypocrite and perhaps she was in one way or another.

"I'm so sorry," she breathed out, astounded at the pain in Gabrielle's eyes. Xena shook her head. "I can't explain why I did the things I did. What could I do though?? How was I to ease your grief?"

The bard crossed her arms and closed her eyes. "Maybe by just once acknowledging it? You went on as if I never knew what it was to be a mother, like what happened never did. Still, I kept my mouth shut."

Xena's blue eyes grew wide. "Why?!"

"Because! I felt guilty!! My daughter killed your son. How could I bring her up knowing that you only saw her as the destroyer of your child?" Gabrielle wiped a tear from her reddened face and then drew a finger under her nose, clearing away the liquid that began to run from it.

Xena's stomach began to turn. Solan...dear Solan, brought down by the hands of her best-friend's daughter before he'd even learned the truth of his existence. Her boy never got the chance to grow old, marry, or be a father. Solan would never see the dawning of a completely new day and for this, Hope was to blame. Xena, at the time, couldn't help but feel rage burn within her, knowing that, had Gabrielle only listened to her in the beginning---

It was in the past and there was no way to mend the loss.

She closed her eyes.

Any way one looked at the situation, it held no easy resolve. If Gabrielle had done as told, she might have always seen Hope as an innocent baby who never was afforded the chance to prove herself. Xena knew this, but after what did happen, and even after putting the matter to rest, no longer pointing fingers of blame, the warrioress couldn't deny that their friendship was never the same.

Then Eve came. Xena refused to bring up Hope. The bitter memories of both their children's deaths, the angst and hatred it had caused, seemed so unnecessary and masochistic to bring up just for the purpose of pointing out a parallel. She had kept quiet for both of their interests. She knew within her heart that her child was good, something that could easily be construed as two-faced when compared with her admonishment of Hope. But, how was she to explain it without it ultimately serving to taunt her best friend?

Xena was at a loss.

"I didn't acknowledge it because it was too painful--for the both of us. I don't know what else I can say...I did what I thought was right at the time. I'm so sorry...for what you went through, but you must know that-"

"Went through," Gabrielle repeated, looking off into nothing as she crossed her arms. She meekly shook her head and glanced at Xena. "I want you to know that while I did feel that loss, I finally understood it--but--I was never the same." Fixing her eyes on the two horses lazily grazing on the southern end of the valley, looming tears finally began to descend. She forcefully ground the tread of her boot into a soft mound of soil and winced. "It's not even that anymore, Xena. It's just...ugh...it's everything."

The warrioress put a hand on her friend's shoulder and stared at her with both admiration and remorse. "You are still such a light in this world and I feel as if you're constantly at war at yourself. A lot of it is because of me--I know." She stopped and looked to the sky as a sigh lingered in her chest. "Just look at what you're becoming."

Gabrielle picked at the stitching of her satchel and shrugged. "For so long, I thought I wanted to be...you."

Again, Xena's eyes enlarged and with an incredulous look, she flared her nostrils. "Why on earth would you want to be like me?? Do you know how much I wanted to see things through innocent eyes? How jealous I was of your ability to see the good in all that surrounded you? Cynicism was always my strong suit and selflessness was yours."

The strap of Gabrielle's satchel slid from her shoulder and the bag dropped to the weed covered ground, the bard trailing after it. She sat back amongst the long-stemmed growth. The weeds prodded at her face before it fell into her hands.

Xena gazed on, her mouth turned down sullenly. Gabrielle kept her face concealed behind her hands. The warrioress used the opportunity to wipe away an impending tear from her own face. It seemed to burn her fingers as it slid upon them and rolled ominously down to the tips.

They had both been through incredible circumstances together. The ways of this earth they learned together, in a fight for justice and prosperity, the greater good. But, just as a song of such rapture, whose melodic song is silenced by a broken string, or a raging fire that ceases to flicker due to the will of a storm, their friendship's harmony rang out of tune and the light dimmed with each new day.

For months-no-years...they had attempted to find their way to peace. They desperately attempted to allow the past to remain forgotten, but it never went away. The pain and regret merely contorted itself into sarcasm and unfamiliarity. Xena had watched as it progressed, silenced, but weary.

It wasn't until the battle for Olympus that she had even considered the possibility of parting ways, but after nearly murdering her closest friend and worse, not acknowledging it, she knew then what had to be done. The fight with Sparta's patrol, seeing Gabrielle freeze with guilt and, subsequently, putting herself in mortal danger, only served to convince the warrioress of her obligation to do the right thing, no matter how painful.

Now, here they were. It was a day that Xena had, for quite some time, put off. How do you tell your closest friend that you're destroying each other? She crouched down into the grass and weeds, placing a hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.

The bard looked up and with reddened eyes, gazed into those of the woman who had served as mentor, confidant, and most treasured friend. Staring into those crystalline blue depths, she winced, for they held her tired and frustrated reflection. It such a contrast from that first day she'd begged to be taken along with the stoic warrioress.

Oh, that day. Gabrielle could still remember every detail, but one among them all stood out.

"You know, where I'm headed, there'll be trouble."

"I know."

"Then why would you want to go into that with me?"

"That's what friends do-- They stand by each other when there's trouble."

"All right, friend."

Gabrielle never forgot the moment their hands clasped for the first time. She could still recall the way her gaze was idled upon a set of blue eyes that seemed to glow like sapphires. They had held her own reflection--one of innocence, enthusiasm, hope and peace.

But now....

All that her reflection held was that of a mortal who had lost their way. Conflicted idealism and guilt stared back at her, mockingly. When Xena's eyes looked away, Gabrielle snapped back into the present, no longer under the imposing stare of her reflection. Her hands wrapped around the bases of weeds and pulled upward, only to toss the remnants to the side as she let out a wavering sigh.

"You're right, Xena...I can't do this anymore. The fighting, the loss--it has to stop. There's so much we've seen together and been through, but I'm losing myself each time I pull out my weapons--each time I must play judge, jury and executioner within the span of seconds. Those men we fought the other night...their families and friends must now suffer their loss, all because they were simply following orders." She paused and gulped back. "I can't do it anymore!"

The warrioress lowered her head and glared at the ground. "So many resentments..I feel them too. But, I'm a warrior...it's the only way I know."

Gabrielle took a breath and wiped a new stream of tears from her face. "You know, all this time I thought I was searching the world to find my place in it, but it isn't until now that I know where that place is."

Xena's fingers fumbled about her chakram, tracing the intricate ridges. She wanted her friend to be happy, even if that meant their paths were separate. The young bard was on the trail to realization.

The warrioress set her jaw and asked, "Where is that place?"

"All my life, I thought I needed to find myself. I felt that my common ways weren't the extent of it-and I was right about that. But after all these years, I finally see that what I was so desperately searching for, the person I wanted to be, was that innocent girl who believed in the greater good of others. For years, you've listened to me talk about finding inner peace, but it was there all along and I just never saw it before...and...with each new day, it sinks further away."

"Gabrielle-"

"I can't do this anymore-judge the future of others with swipes of steel and anger. I can no longer carry the burden of the guilt. Together we fought for the greater good-and for that I hold no regrets, but I can't go about doing it the same as you." She picked at a loose thread on her satchel, taking note of how just as she, the once tightly bound string was unraveling. Gabrielle winced. "You're right. While I know we will always be bound in eternal friendship-the path we lead now is forking off. You're all I've known for the past few years and it's time I learn who I am."

Xena saw the pain in her friend's eyes. She shook her head sympathetically and pulled her into her arms, hugging her tightly for support and faintly smiled. "You must follow your path, Gabrielle. We're family, you know this. For so long I took your loyalty for granted and I don't know how I can ever make that up to you. You've let go of so much all ready and I will not stand by and watch you give yourself up as well. I did it to my mother, my brothers, even Ar-," Xena paused, shocked to hear the first syllable of Ares' name pass through her own lips.

"He really does mean a lot to you on some level, doesn't he?"

The warrioress cocked a brow. "I don't know where he fits into my life...but, there's something there." Xena rolled eyes. "I don't know. I really don't and it's a matter that I can't afford to think about if we're going to get out of here. She closed her eyes briefly to shake the notion before continuing, "Actually, this whole ordeal could get quite messy. You don't need to stay here now. The fight against Sparta has nothing to do with you--you shouldn't feel obligated."

Xena pulled away and helped the bard to stand as the young girl wiped away the last of the fallen tears. Gabrielle shook her head and took on a most dedicated gaze. "No, Xena. If this is to be the end of our travels, let's see this last great adventure out together."

***********************************************************

"I can't believe you're already leaving. I'm going to miss you," a tall slender woman stated as she handed an ivory brush to the other who sat on the edge of a quilted bed.

The young woman smiled, pulling the bristles through her long black hair. "I'll miss you as well. I'm quite excited about the whole thing actually."

"That so? Sparta...King Menelaus is quite the hero in their eyes. Do you know what you'll be stationed to do there?"

"Well, I assume I'll just be a stand-by servant as I was here. Andro, do you think I'll see them??"

The older woman paused and adjusted the cotton cap that held her hair up. "There you go again, Cassia."

The young girl smirked. "Wellll...I can't help it. The accounts of Gabrielle's adventures span all over Greece."

"Yes, yes...and your father read you one of her scrolls every night. I know, it's the only thing you talk about. How you'd like to see what she's seen. Do the things that she's done," the woman paused, "From what I hear, only Xena's been spotted in Sparta."

Cassia pursed her lips and continued to brush her hair. "True. But, where she goes, the bard goes." She put the brush down, satisfied that her locks were untangled and leaned back on her bed. A smile crossed her lips. "One day, I will see the world, be my own person and not merely a servant."

Andro pulled a chair out and sat down, smoothing the creases of her off-white chiton and looked to the girl empathetically. "Cassia...you know that I want you to be happy. But, " she lowered her head, "this is the way of life for people like us."

The girl's head rolled to the side and a defiant stare sat under her cocked brow. "Always so pragmatically cynical." She rolled onto her elbows, causing her hair to spill over her shoulders. "We belong only to ourselves. No one owns us and one day, I will make that abundantly clear."

Andro's gray brow lowered. "When you just...what? Get up and walk away?"

Cassia got up from the bed and walked over the dark mahogany chest that sat at the foot of it. She unclasped the iron lock and lifted the lid. It creaked as she pushed it open. She gracefully lowered her hands into the depths and pulled out a long, green, velvet pouch. She diligently worked on the threaded rope that kept it closed, slid her hand in, and pulled out a scroll. Her eyes fluttered down as she ran her hand over the parchment before gazing at Andro who sat there, confused.

"I want to read you part of this. I think it's the only way you'll understand, my dear friend."

The woman acknowledged her with a brief nod. "Is this what I think it is?"

Cassia pursed her lips, made her way to the edge of the bed, and sat. She unfolded the document carefully. "It's time I finally shared it with you." She pushed a lock of hair behind her ear, cleared her throat and began to read.

"Two years have past as if they came and left under the guise of a single night. What many people across Greece had come to know as nothing more than a fierce warrioress, a young girl, an innocent to the ways of this world, has come to know as a friend, mentor, and confidant. In a short span of time, this girl has seen and done so much, and has learned a great many lessons. Together, these friends, the idealistic bard and the stoic warrioress, fight for the greater good.

Humanity is something which should never be taken for granted. No matter how oppressed, the mortal will can not be suppressed. Beauty, strength, empathy and joy are our gifts. No slaver, no magistrate or ruthless war monger can ever change that.

It is up to the us to hold this truth. This is something so many do not realize. The boot does not come down upon one's neck by force--it comes down by submission and fear. One day, we will see a world of peace, but it is up to the common man, woman and child to tear down the wall that keeps them from this goal. Tis greater to make some sort of stand than to never make one at all.

So, together a warrioress and a bard make a stand for this cause and, along the way, the latter would like to think that she has played a part and been a teacher in the eyes of her mentor. Is this a paradox? Perhaps.

There came a day when this paradox became a reality. It was the day that the bard discovered her inner strength. It was a day that shocked not only the Warrior Princess, but herself as well. Her strength was her heart, and by listening to it, she learned that, even surrounded by the so-called enemy, it would not be silenced.

This is the story of the day she learned about the greater good."

Cassia looked up before continuing to find a small tear on the verge of spilling over the brim of Andro's eye. She smiled slightly, knowing that the scroll she read was explaining her ideals better than she ever could. The young girl ran her hand across the parchment. "Do you want me to go on?"

Andro wiped the tear from her face and nodded. "Yes, please do."

So, in the early morning hours, within Cassia's servant quarters, the two remained as the young girl recounted the story of the day Gabrielle had posed as Xena when the warrioress had been struck down by a, then, unknown enemy. She told the story of how a bard had come to the rescue of not only the Warrior Princess, but of an entire town.

***********************************************************

"You alright? Can you see"

The bard nodded as she made her way down the scaling wooden planks that descended into the depths of the shelter. Xena stood at the bottom, holding up the lantern in one hand, and in the other, a few game birds they'd managed to trap while hunting. They'd been gone for nearly an hour and a half. Consequently, they were extremely hungry.

The talk they'd had before the hunt had produced a quiet morning, but now, all that was on either of their minds was breakfast.

Together, they walked down the dark corridor and into the food stores facility. Xena placed the birds down the table and began to pluck a few feathers from one, discarding them to the corner.

Gabrielle looked over, noting that her friend was doing an extremely poor job of removing the feathers and shook her head. She let a small, almost inaudible snicker out, and walked up to the other side of the table.

"Um, Xena. You know how you always say you have many skills?"

She looked up and cocked her head. "Yes?"

Gabrielle reached down and slowly pulled the bird away from her. "Well, it's time you know that food prep is not one of them."

Xena's mouth dropped open as she placed her hands on the edge of the table. "What's that supposed to mean," the warrioress asked as she dislodged a feather from her gauntlet.

The bard plucked a feather from the bird and flicked it at Xena's face. "It means you are awful at cooking and you should get out of the way while the real chef takes over."

Xena laughed quietly and nodded her head. "Yeah...I suppose I should go see if Ares has gotten up anyway."

"You go do that. These will be done and cooked to perfection before you know it-- now that they're in my hands."

"Uh-huh. Well, I could cook if I wanted to. I just like to use the excuse that I can't so I'm not asked to." With that, Xena grabbed a few of the feathers from the table and threw them at Gabrielle before leaving the room, snickering.

Xena pushed her black hair back behind her shoulders as she walked toward the entrance to the main quarters. She stopped short of entering as she caught sight of Ares. She didn't know why she didn't just continue into the room, but there was something that held her curiosity enough to make her stay in place. In all the years she'd known Ares, never once had she thought that she would witness him getting up and going about things like a mere mortal. It was a simple enough thing to do, but the fact that he was once the personification of war---well, it just perplexed her enough that she couldn't bring herself to intrude.

The wooden cot creaked under Ares' weight as he rolled onto his back and let out a sigh. Slowly he stretched, wincing a bit as he did, the pain causing him to retract. Wearily, eyes opened, blinked, and focused on the dirt ceiling. He swallowed and sat up, swinging his legs over the edge of the cot and gripping the edge with his hands. A long yawn past his lips as he brought his hands up to his face and rubbed, before running them through his hair and standing.

Walking over to the table, he pushed a hand along his eye, and stopped. Brown eyes looked from cot to cot, and he noted that he was alone. On a second scan of the room, he saw a piece of parchment sitting atop the table and picked it up.

"Gone to hunt," Ares read, drowsily. He tossed the item back down and scratched his bare chest.

He wasn't quite sure what to do to occupy the time of isolation. Glancing down at the old rags he was still wearing, he shrugged his shoulders and with a raised brow, walked over to a chest in the corner of the room. Xena had told him the night before as they got ready for bed that he could find some clothes within to change into when he got up.

Gradually bending down, he flipped the lid up and pulled out a pair of black leather pants. "Xena did always joke about war and leather going together."

Outside the entrance, Xena heard this and bit her lip. As she watched on, she bit harder. The small joke had been one thing, but Ares was now in the midst of dropping his pants. The warrioress turned away and threw her back against the wall.

It wouldn't be right to keep staring, she thought to herself while a red blush traversed her face. Forcefully, she breathed out and turned back to watch. Just taking note of his injuries...nothing more..

Ares slowly pulled the leather pants up and fastened them. He knelt, grabbed a black padded tunic from the chest, and put it on. A small grunt past his lips as he rolled his shoulders and tied the shirt together. Satisfied that it was bound, he smoothed the edges down over the top of the pants and sighed.

A box in the corner caught his eye. It was constructed of slatted wood and held a bountiful amount of swords. Pursing his lips, he hesitated before making his way to it. He placed his hands atop the edge of the box and leaned. With a wavering hand, he reached down, and ran a finger over the finely honed edge of one of the swords. He cocked his head and grasped the hilt, pulling the item out. Ares' eyes swept over it. The steel reflected the flames of a nearby torch, as well as his own dark shadow.

Xena stared on. In this atmosphere, Ares looked restored. The bouncing shadows concealed the bruises and he still maintained that ever imposing stature. Still, she watched on as he swung and twirled the weapon about in his hand, the reflected flames contorting with each swipe. Something pulled at her. Could it be that it comforted her to see Ares swept up like this... like he was?

Twirling the sword about in a glorious array of twists and turns, he looked magnificent.

No sooner did this thought cross her mind, than something once thought impossible happened. He winced with each large swoop as he tried to suppress the pain in his chest, and, for one brief moment, he lost control of it. That one mistake was all that was needed, for the sharp edge came up, nicking Ares' chin. The sword fell from his hand.

If this had been anyone else, it would not have been such a shock to see. Xena had done this to herself on more than one occasion. But, this was Ares. This was the personification of war himself, cut by the hand that had once willed legions to do as he demanded.

He brought a hand to his face and emitted a snarl. Kicking the sword off the ground and back into his grasp, he brought it down upon the edge of the box as hard as he could. Splinters of wood flew to the dirt below. Cussing, he stormed off toward a barrel of water and furiously splashed it onto his face as he laboredly breathed. His nostrils flared and retracted while the water streamed from his brow, down the length of his nose and dripped back into the barrel. He clutched the rim causing his muscles to tense as he shook his head.

"Pathetic!" Ares looked down at his reflection on the surface of the water and winced. He clenched his jaw and spat, "Just look at you! Look at what you've become! You condemn your home to ruin for a woman who despises you."

Xena couldn't help but let out a silent gasp upon hearing this. As soon as she heard those words her own responded unspoken. I don't despise you. She swallowed, processing the thought that had just crossed her mind. The warrioress' gaze turned sullen as she watched Ares continue to berate himself.

"You're the laughing stock of everything you once ruled over and there's no going back. Olympus is gone...all you knew is gone...." A self-mocking chuckle poured out over his wet lips. "Perhaps this is my punishment. After years of betrayals and scheming to get whatever I wanted, the one thing I truly desired..." He stopped and wiped his face with the back of his hand and peered back down at his own reflection. "Behold! The once mighty Ares of Olympus!!! Brought to his knees by...love." Again, he looked down at his own countenance and disgustedly sneered. He thrust his fist into the water, causing it to splash and fly up. He pulled back against the rim of the barrel before leaning forward again, closing his eyes as tight as possible and swallowing back.

Xena was in utter shock. She knew, that in his own twisted way, he cared for her. She knew that their past had been flawed, but they still maintained some bond. She knew that he gave up Olympus for her and all that it meant...but still, Xena was amazed to hear the word 'love'. Sure, he'd told her that he loved her that fateful night in the rain, but she thought it all a ruse to get her away from Eve. Then, on Mount Olympus, after Athena had fallen, Ares' explanation for what he'd done was that he had a 'thing' for her.

Xena took a deep breath. The pain in his, now, opened eyes told everything. She didn't know what to do. She didn't know if she should make her presence known and even if that was the right thing to do, Xena found herself unable to move. She leaned against the wall and stared on.

Ares' eyes fell back down to his reflection and he bowed his head. Repeating words just spoken, this time they fell across his lips in a whisper. "Behold..The once mighty Ares of Olympus, brought to his knees by love...and if he could go back...he would gladly fall to them again."

Xena threw her back against the wall again and closed her eyes. She was in shock, but before she could think on what had just happened, a hand touch her shoulder. She jerked forward and her side knocked into the wall, causing her chakram to come of its clasp and roll into the room. It ran on its side into the room before loosing momentum and falling flat at Ares' feet.

Her eyes grew wide as she looked from where the chakram had ended up, to the hand upon her shoulder.

"You ok," Gabrielle asked, a bit startled from Xena's reaction.

The warrioress looked back, took a moment to regain her senses and responded, "Yea." She clamped her jaw shut and slowly walked into the room. Gabrielle followed behind, confused.

Xena looked at Ares. He was in the process of picking her chakram up. She bit her lip and walked up to him as he held it out to her.

"Lose this?"

Thinking quick on her feet she nodded. "Um, yea. We just got back from hunting and I was on my way see if you were up."

"Well, as you can see, I am."

Xena nodded again, her eyes fixed on his own and answered, "Yeah."

Gabrielle looked on at the pair and waited for someone to say something more. No one did, so she chose to break the silence. "Well, I'm going to go back and check on breakfast."

The warrioress broke her stare and looked back to her friend. "I'll come with you." She turned around, briefly glancing at Ares. "After breakfast, it's time to figure out a strategy to get out of here." With that she put her chakram back on its clasp and left the room with Gabrielle.

Xena started down the corridor quickly, in large strides, with her head down. Gabrielle tried to keep up and reached for her arm as they entered the food storage area.

"Woah, hold up! What's wrong? What happened down there?"

Xena turned on her heel and her mouth dropped open a bit. "Nothing happened..."

"It sure doesn't look like 'nothing'. What's going on? Don't shut me out," Gabrielle countered as she propped herself on top of the wooden table.

Swallowing, Xena ran a hand over her chakram and winced. "I just did something I shouldn't have done."

"Which would be?"

Shifting her weight onto the other foot, she answered, "I sorta...well...I sorta eaves-dropped."

Gabrielle lowered a brow as she twirled a discarded feather between her thumb and index finger. "What do you mean? Ares is alone in there. How could you-"

"He was talking aloud," Xena interjected.

"About?"

Spotting a crate along the wall, she sat down and put her head in her hands. "About everything he's lost. About losing Olympus."

Gabrielle smirked. "Ohh, I see. Well, I admit, what he did there took courage and I am grateful, but he's still Ares--power hungry, and megalomanic."

Xena raised her head and cocked it to the side, staring off into the dirt. "That's the thing, I thought he was too--that under the broken exterior he's still the same...but he's not. What he did on Olympus wasn't a fluke."

The bard ran a finger through the feather she was holding. "Explain."

"I watched and listened as he demeaned himself....mocked himself...I thought he'd go on to say what a waste it all was to do what he did. Part of me wanted to hear him say that because, ever since that moment, my perception of Ares has been conflicted. Just to hear him say it was a mistake... or that if he could go back, he woulda sided with Olympus... I'd realize that he is the same old Ares and these feelings that I'm feel-"

"Feelings? You never mentioned anything about that."

Xena took a breath, closed her eyes and then exhaled. "When he gave up everything to save me from Athena...it shocked me. Never did I think he was capable of selflessness. Yet, he did it--and he didn't ask anything in return. It made me think that maybe, underneath everything, there was something genuine, something redeemable...and all these old feelings came flooding back. For years, I kept them walled-up. I kept telling myself that he only cares about himself-nothing more. It made it easier to push him away, to be contemptuous and not feel guilty ...but then that night-"

Gabrielle put the feather down. "What did he say just now?"

Xena gazed at the burning fire in the hearth, the flames enveloping blackened wood. "I heard him say, that if he had it to do all over again...he would." She looked up at her friend atop the table, searching for some sort of input, but all she saw was a blank stare.

"....I don't know what to say to that. This is Ares you're talking about- war himself-"

"He's not war anymore...he's just a man." Xena's eyes flickered. The words that had just spilled from her lips caught her off guard.

Gabrielle looked at the fire, got off the table, grabbed a poker and crouched. She pushed the wood logs around, sending sparks and flames to rise, before looking back.

"You mentioned old feelings. It's funny in a way. All these years we've travelled together and all the times you've faced down Ares, but you never once spoke about your past with him."

Xena leaned back against the wall, crossing her arms. "Well, I don't know. There are just some things that I find difficult to talk about."

"Even with me?"

"You don't understand what I mean. You see, when I rode with Borias, I was ruthless. That you know-that I did tell you. After Solan was born, I went back to Thrace with what was left of my army in tow. Things started there. Where there was an uncontrollable rage, Ares placed a goal. It was no longer about hate. It was about conquest. Together we would rule-first Greece, and then the rest of the known world." Xena's eyes rolled back in recollection. "I guess you could say he and I mixed our business with pleasure...We were together for a very long time. The end of my campaign was also the end of..." Xena's head rolled to the side as she stared off into the dirt again.

Gabrielle put the poker down and stood, swiping the ashes from her hands, "So all those times he's shown up over the past few years-how did you feel?"

"Tense, empty, betrayed, and amazed that the connection between us was still there on some level. Part of me wanted to run my sword through him and at the same time, part of me wanted to--" she trailed off. There were just some things that she didn't want to admit to. Xena, looked at her chakram and shrugged. "It's so hard to walk that line."

"And what just recently happened on Olympus, do you think that line has been blurred?"

Xena looked up to her friend. Her black brows came to a point as though she had an ephiny and her mouth dropped open. "I think it erased it.." Pausing, she took a breath and stood. "I can't talk about this right now. I just can't. I'm sorry."

"No, it's alright. I understand...I think," Gabrielle stuttered as she tried to change the subject to ease the tension. "Um..oh- breakfast looks done."

Nodding, Xena breathed out. "Yeah. We need to get out of here, Gabrielle. It's time to formulate a plan. So, we'll eat and try to come up with some ideas."

The bard pulled the crisped poultry off of the spit and onto a steel tray, shaking the heat from her fingers. "That sounds like a good idea." She stood, wiping the grease from her hand on the side of her skirt, and handed Xena the tray. "Ready?"

"Yea."

She gripped the tray and began walking out into the corridor, but stopped abruptly. Gabrielle nearly ran right into her. Casting a look over her shoulder, Xena whispered, "Don't mention a word of this to Ares."

"You know I would never do that.."

"I know you wouldn't. I'm just really confused by it all...I'm sorry-You know I trust you."

"I know. Now, can we get in there and eat? I'm starving." Gabrielle's stomach growled.

"Yea, of course," Xena stated with a sly smile.

The pair walked down the corridor. Shadows played on their faces as they entered the room. There was only one torch lit. Xena placed the tray down on the table and looked over at Ares who sat on his cot. He looked rather bored as he watched a spider make its way down the wall.

"You alright, " Xena questioned as she and Gabrielle both pulled out chairs and sat.

Slowly, Ares turned to face her. He let a deep breath escape his lips as he wearily nodded and stood. He made his way to the table, pulled out a chair across from Xena, and sat. The wood creaked under his weight while he settled into it.

Gabrielle's brows rose as, once again, an unspoken conveyance seemed to pass between Xena and the ex-Olympian. She shook her head, reached down into her satchel that sat at the foot of the table, and pulled out three metal dishes. She sat the first two down and paused before setting the third in front of Ares.   A third dish had not been necessary since Eve left. The bard shrugged the thought off and readjusted herself in her seat.

"Alright guys, chow time," she prompted, opening her hands up, then reaching for her own piece.

Both Xena and Ares went for the same piece at the same time. Their hands bumped and there was a brief pause before they both retracted.

Extending her chin, she raised her hand. "You go ahead and take that one."

"No, it's alright, Xena," Ares insisted, picking up the other bird. He pulled a piece off of the bone, popped it into his mouth, and licked the grease off his fingers.

Still a bit shaken from what happened earlier, Xena hesitated before reaching for her own. Lowering her eyes she simply replied, "Thanks". She looked back and got up out of her chair, grabbing three cups off a nearby shelf. She sat them on the table and grabbed a pitcher of water that Gabrielle had set there the night before. She filled each glass and sat back down, pulling her plate toward her.

"Thanks," Ares breathed out as he lifted the cup to his lips.

She swallowed a piece of food and nodded. "No problem." She looked from face to face as she picked at her food. Pursing her lips, she reached for her own cup of water and pretty much chugged it. Xena set the cup back down, satisfied, and cleared her throat.

"Alright, we need to figure out what we're going to do."

Gabrielle looked up from her plate. "Any ideas, Xena?"

Ares' stared expectantly at the Warrior Princess as she cocked her head and answered, "Actually, I need more background information first."

"What do you mean," he asked, knowing the question was directed at him.

Xena took another bite of her food before elaborating. "Well, Ares, we know the bare facts. We know that Menelaus wants you dead so he can claim he 'conquered war' and make the Spartans believe it's retribution for the Trojan War." She paused as he nodded and then continued, "Now, Sparta is and was a monarchy, but Menelaus now uses a high council-"

"Turning it over from a monarchy to a democracy after his reign is over it would seem," Gabrielle stated in realization.

Xena raised a brow and nodded. "Most likely because he never produced an heir. Now, utilizing a council makes me tend to believe that, to carry out such a thing as dispatching you, he'd need a go-ahead from these men."

"Yea- remember that man in the square, Xena? What was his name..Pha..Pha..Phaz-"

Interrupting, Ares spat, "Phazon."

"That was it. He mentioned that he knew what was happening and seemed rather pleased about it. So, yes, I do think this was discussed and approved by the council like you suggest," Gabrielle responded, wiping her hands on a piece of cloth.

Xena pursed her lips and set her eyes directly onto Ares, waiting for an answer. He sat the pitcher back down after refilling his cup and obliged her. "Yes, Sparta does use a high council for matters such as these. It's comprised of four men total, two of which are supreme advisors."

"Is Phazon one of those two," Xena asked.

Ares bobbed his head. "Yes, he is. He was all for my execution."

"So there was some sort of vote then...alright, well, was it unanimous?"

"All they would tell me was that I was to be executed by Menelaus' command, but interestingly enough, I did overhear a conversation between two guards one day."

"What did they say?"

Ares coughed, took a breath and answered, "That they found it odd that in the midst of an important meeting, one of the advisors walked out in a rage and would be taking a leave of absence until 'matters' had settled."

Xena's eyes narrowed as she leaned back in her seat and tapped her fingers across the top of the table. "Interesting...Sounds like someone was opposed to Menelaus' plan. Know the name?"

"Well, since it's pretty apparent that it wasn't Phazon, the only other person it could be is a man named Nikolaus."

Xena's eyes lowered in thought. Coming to some sort of silent conclusion, she tilted her head and shrugged. "Well, it's plausible that he didn't want to go along with your execution and chose to leave until it was over. Perhaps this is something we can work with."

Gabrielle drank from her cup and sat it down. She wiped the corners of her mouth with the back of her hand before asking, "What are you getting at, exactly?"

Looking across the table at Ares, whose brow was raised as he chewed, Xena explained, "We must face the facts. On the long side of Sparta's border, there's nothing but a lengthy mountainside too steep to traverse. On the other, we're blocked by the sea, and on the north and south there are stationed guards. We're trapped and that's all there is to it. What we need is an ally that wields some power over the people."

"And you think that this Nikolaus is that ally," Ares asked.

Leaning back in her chair and adjusting a leather strap on her battle dress, Xena again shrugged. "Right now, he seems like the only option we have. I mean think about it- a glorious celebration to commemorate your execution and he misses it-after getting into an argument the night your judgment was passed down. He must have been against it- or at least against the majority for something."

Ares ran a hand along the side of his face thoughtfully. "So, what do you have in mind? We just waltz right back into Sparta to talk to a man that might, or might not, side with us?" He leaned against the edge of the table and fixed his eyes on Xena's before continuing, "You can still get out of this."

"I already told you that it's my decision to stay. We'll figure out a way to get to Nikolaus," she firmly stated. Looking towards the bard, she continued, "but you, Gabrielle-."

She raised a hand. "Xena, we've been through worse than this. You know that. We faced down Olympus and managed to walk away."

Xena looked at Ares. "Just barely and only because he decided to help us."

He lowered his head and gripped the edge of the table. Quietly, he mumbled something to himself.

"What," Xena asked.

"Nothing."

"What did you say," she asked again.

Ares abruptly stood up and spun around. He raised his hands to his head, running them through his hair. Pushing out a breath, he spun back to face Xena, the flames from the torches casting shadows upon his face. "I don't know why you won't just detach yourself from this. I did what I did on Olympus because I couldn't stand to lose -- I brought down the pantheon so you would survive. Don't make it have been all for nothing! Just GO Xena!"

She followed his lead and stood herself, mouth agape. "Whatever happens to me, what you did there was not for nothing. Don't you know that what you did was for the greater good of the people?!"

Ares' jaw flickered. "The greater good of the people? How am I supposed to know if that was what was best for the people?! All I know, is that everything I knew has been thrown into chaos. My family and home are gone and, in some way, I played a part in bringing it all down--NOW the REASON I did it might meet her end anyway!!"

Xena took a shaky breath. "For whatever the reason, I can't walk away, Ares. Our chances aren't necessarily good, but at least there is a chance at all. We'll find this Nikolaus-"

"We'd be captured on first sight. You know that, Xena!"

Gabrielle, who'd been watching the entire display, remained seated. Silently, she nodded to herself before interrupting, "I don't think anyone saw me."

Pulling her stare from Ares', Xena looked down at her friend. "What?"

"I don't think anyone saw me in Sparta. Not enough to associate me as being involved with the escape, anyway. Everyone was focused on the both of you and by the time you guys got to the horses, my back was turned."

"What are you trying to get at," the warrioress inquired, pulling her seat toward Gabrielle and sitting.

Taking a moment to think things through, the bard closed her eyes. She processed her thoughts quickly and shifted in her seat. Looking Xena directly in the face, she determinedly responded, "Send me. I'll find Nikolaus."

***********************************************************

Her delicate hands were pressed firmly against the stone laden sill of the window overlooking Sparta's main square. A deep sigh passed over pouting lips as her eyes held fast to the erected gallows tree below. The commoners went about their way walking past the portentous structure as if it did not even exist. It was another day in Sparta. A day that would soon be drawing to a close. Stands selling what fruits, vegetables and breads they had, were still opened for business. The drought that had fallen over the land had certainly minimized stocks, yet the work day went on as usual.

Still, her eyes loomed and stared at the sight below, but now, something caught her eye, causing a disturbed feeling to pass over her. Two small boys had climbed to the top of the gallows and were now engaged in a game of catch. How symbolic that innocents such as these had no sense of what serious retribution a structure such as that was meant for. She couldn't look any longer.

Turning away from the window, Queen Taris leaned back against the sill, closed her eyes and brought her hands to her belly. No louder than a breath she uttered, "Oh my dear little one. I desire only beauty and harmony in your life."

Hearing the impending arrival of someone into the main hall where she stood, she quickly regained her composure and stood upright. The echoing foot steps drew nearer and now a shadow crawled upon the floor and up a wall. Her green eyes watched as the dark form sprawled up a tapestry, until finally its owner came into view.

Taris squinted her eyes thinking, perhaps, they betrayed her. As she realized that what she saw was indeed who she thought, her lips curled up in a half-hearted smile.

"You're back," she called out.

The figure approached. He was dressed in a splendid green silk chiton with corded silver draped from shoulder to waist. The man extended his hands, taking the queen's in his own, and squeezed them softly.

"Yes, I'm back, but the question is--is it over?"

Taris' hands dropped down to her sides as she turned around and faced the window. "As I'm sure you've seen, the gallows are still up. I thought you would have surely heard word that Ares escaped."

The man ran a tanned hand through his black hair. Grey strands threaded through the curly locks. He walked up to the window, placing an arm along side the wall to lean on. He gazed out into the square and his blue eyes reflected the warm light of the sun. The rays kissed his face as he moved to speak.

"Actually, I made quite sure to keep myself uninformed until returning here to Sparta."

Taris looked up to his face. "Why?"

He lowered his own head to meet her stare. "Because I know that, when seeking the truth of matters that pertain to Sparta and her people, there is no better informant than the illustrious queen herself."

Taris bowed her head, slightly embarrassed. A small smile crept along her face. Shyly, she looked up from under her lashes to see that he too was smiling. The prominent lines that drew from each eye were telling of not only his years, but of a man who simply loved to grin.

She took a moment and clasped her hands at her waist as the moment passed and serious matters took hold. "Oh, Nikolaus, it's all such a mess here and Ares did indeed escape."

"Well, doesn't that just put a dent in old Menelaus' plans? Pity."

"Ah, your sarcasm is showing."

He placed his had over his chest and smirked. "My dear lady, you know it is one of my finer qualities when it comes to dear old Menelaus. So, you say he escaped. What happened?"

"It was the warrior woman-- Xena. She somehow managed to not only free Ares from the noose, but also got him out of here safely. It was quite a display."  

Nikolaus took a minute to digest the news. Thoughtfully running a finger over his chin he again smiled. "Quite intriguing."

Taris tilted her head, not completely understanding what he meant. "How so?"

He turned his face to the window again and stared up at the ominously rolling white clouds. Taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of the sight, the corners of his mouth turned up. "Well, tales of this Xena are quite well known by their own account, but what was also most fascinating about this woman, was that she was, at one point, Ares' chosen warrior. She was to conquer all of Greece and would have succeeded. I don't know the entire history, but I do know that she left those ways behind."

"Right, she's known for helping those who can't help themselves, much like Hercules."

"Yes. Now, it's also well known that these two became adversaries. But, the twist came when-"

Taris closed her eyes. "He gave up his immortality for her."

"Correct. These turn of events are most interesting."

Lowering her head, the Queen of Sparta took a breath. "Interesting turn of events...yes. Well, I suppose I know all about that myself..."

He lowered a brow and beckoned her to sit on a plush velvet divan that sat against the wall. "What do you mean?"

She sat down, her lips pressed tightly together in thought. Finally, looking toward the ceiling, she shook her head. "There's so much you don't know. Menelaus-"

"Well look who's back," a man called out from the main hall's archway.

Both Nikolaus and Taris looked up in surprise to find Phazon standing in regal attire, looking as smug as ever. Smoothing down his robes, he walked up to the pair and grinned patronizingly.

"Phazon," Nikolaus acknowledged, monotoned.

"What happened, Niko? I thought you had no taste for...what was the phrase you used during the meeting? Oh yes! You had no taste for 'displays of inhumane power'. What happened?"

Staring up at Phazon, he clenched his jaw. "I still do not. I figured that by now, with such competent people in charge, this farce of a trial and execution would be over."

The small statured man laughed. "Oh it's far from over. The fun has just started. We'll find Ares and this time, perhaps, you'll stay around for the show."

Taris' was not amused. "Is this necessary?!" She stood and crossed her arms, waiting for a reply.

"Frankly, 'queen', I think it is. But, I suppose that it can be discussed later. Right now, I'm here to convey other news."

Setting her jaw, she tapped her foot. "Well??"

Phazon once again smirked and made his way to sit on the window sill. He, too, crossed his arms and raised his brows. "Well, seems as though you made quite the error in judgment. I must say, the king will be none too pleased when he returns home to find that the palace wheat stocks are depleted."

Her eyes contracted, leaving only glints peering through thick, dark lashes. "What do you mean? The people needed to eat! You know what the drought has done."

"Yes, yes. But, did it ever occur to you that your husband had these matters under hand?" Seeing Taris' face lower, he went on, "Ah yes, you're not readily made aware of these details are you. Well, your husband, as you know, left to Pylos to barter. This morning wagons laden to the brim with wheat came through the gates."

"Why wasn't I notified of this."

"Because, if you'd merely trust your husband you wouldn't make such errors, my dear queen," Phazon rudely replied.

Nikolaus had heard enough and stood. "She was only doing what she felt was right. Just back off. It's apparent that all you care about is ascending to power here in Sparta. Don't come off pretending to truly care about the people."

"What would you know about what I care or care not for," Phazon shot back, squaring his shoulders.

"Because, you are transparent. Everything you do is for yourself. You take to this city as though it were your own. Drinking, indulging in the tax funds and putting your hands on anything with two breasts--"

Phazon's nostrils flared and a line across his brow began to throb. "And just what about yourself, Niko?! You stand here casting disparaging remarks about my character and what I stand for yet you- The only words you offer the council are ones promoting Sparta's well-being, and when we attempt to bring it into fruition, you run with your tail between your legs calling it murder!"

Nikolaus, again, clenched his jaw and took a step toward Phazon. He was quite taller than the man and his blue eyes loomed down angrily. "It is murder- anyway you want to present it. You can't cover it up by saying it's to promote Menelaus' reputation as a leader. You can't tell me true that it would serve as retribution for those lost in the Trojan War. We all know who is to blame for that!"

Now Phazon smirked. He wanted to hear Nikolaus verbally blame Menelaus. He wanted to hear it so he could report it back to the king and thus, get him kicked off the high council.

"Go on! Say it! Just say it once-that's all I need. The queen is standing right here as witness." Phazon turned to smile at Taris and ran a hand along the side of her face. "You will serve as witness won't you? You won't stand to hear your husband be slandered will you?"

Taris jerked her head away from Phazon's touch. "You'll do well to remind yourself of just whose wife you dare lay a finger on now."

His hand still extended, he curled his fingers to the palm. He smiled warily, realizing he was pushing it, and brought his arm back down to his side. "Quite right." He cleared his throat and tried to change the subject. "Well, as much as I do love these talks, it's nearly dusk and there are other preparations I need to make."

"Such as," Taris asked dryly.

"Yes, why don't you tell us. Perhaps we can help," Nikolaus chimed in sarcastically.

"Well, if you must know. Along with the wheat, your husband has bought a new servant. I'm to take her lodging arrangements under hand and tell her what is expected of her."

Taris scoffed. "Don't you dare do what's on your mind."

"My mind? Of course I wouldn't.." Phazon grinned and began to walk out of the room. At the archway he turned once more and concluded, "at least not on the first night."

With that, he smugly laughed and continued on his way, leaving Taris and Nikolaus remaining within the hall. Both wore disgusted expressions.

"If Sparta was ever to be ruled by that man, I can't even fathom what would happen," Taris stated, crossing her arms.

Placing his hands along either side of the window, Nikolaus looked back out into the square. The sun was now beginning to descend from the sky. The purple, orange, and pink hues danced along the stone walls and window panes.

"Do you recall a time when Sparta knew peace?"

She lowered her head and sucked on her bottom lip. "Try as I might, that memory slips further with each new day. The people think they are prospering, but if they only realized what I know as truth."

Eyes still set on the setting sky, he replied, "Perhaps, one day, their eyes will be opened."

***********************************************************

Walking between the imposing marble pillars of the Spartan palace, Cassia gawked at the decadent artwork and tapestries that lined the walls. Clutched firmly under her arms was a brown fur satchel. It was filled with the few possessions she owned. She took in the sights around her and the sound of her echoing footsteps. Phazon walked beside the young woman, explaining what would be expected of her. The man's words fell deafly from his mouth. She was too enamored with her new surroundings.

Suddenly, she felt a hand grip her arm, exerting slight pressure. She had been deep in thought and this startled her enough to make her jump. With a thud, her satchel fell to the floor, its contents spilling out onto the stone floor. Cassia trailed after her belongings.

While pushing garments back into the sack, she looked up. "I'm sorry, what did you just say?"

Phazon crossed his arms and rolled his eyes. "I asked if you were paying attention, which, apparently, you were not."

She slowly stood, placing the handle of the satchel over her shoulder. Bowing her head she responded, "I'm truly sorry. I was just taking in the sights. My most sincere apologies, sir."

"That will simply not do, girl. I don't know what kind of rules they impose in Pylos, but here in Sparta you must always be at attention."

Cassia bit her lip. "It won't happen again."

"Good, now let's be on our way."

"Of course."

The pair began to walk down the hall again and Phazon resumed his speech. "As I was saying, you'll be on call at all times. Most of your chores will consist of cleaning, dressing, and at times, even cooking. In other words, everything." Approaching a wooden door he stopped. Lit torches burned brightly on either side of it. He pushed it open and continued, "These are the servant quarters. Just go on in and find yourself a cot. If there are anymore questions, ask your superiors."

With that Phazon extended an arm directing the girl to enter. As she made her way under the door frame, she jumped in shock as she felt the man's hand groping her backside. Cassia's mouth dropped open and she whipped her head around, her eyes bulging. He merely removed his hand, brushed his fingers across his moustache and laughed as he turned on his heel and left.

Cassia's eyes lowered bemusedly before she turned back around to investigate her new arrangements. The room was enormous. It was dark and dimly lit with only a few scant torches offering light. Wood beams lined the walls. There were ten cots lining the length of one wall, and another ten on the opposite. No one else, save for herself, was in the room and she took the opportunity to scoff.

First impression?

"Twenty people in one room!? They must be joking!"

She shook her head incredulously and walked down the isle between the beds trying to find an open spot. Cot after cot had personal items atop the cotton sheets until finally, and much to her dismay, she found one toward the middle of the room.

"Well, here's hoping my neighbors don't snore."

She flopped herself on the cot and winced, realizing the surface was much harder than she had anticipated. In Pylos, the cots were stuffed with the soft down of feathers. There were only two to a room, but here...Not only would she be sharing a room with over a dozen others, but the beds were stuffed with straw.

Cassia rolled onto her side, propping her head up on her hand. A long sigh escaped her pouting lips. She closed her hazel eyes in silent reflection. How she missed her family. She'd once been free.

Her mother had passed on during the birth of what would have been her brother. The child had not made it through the labor either. At the time, Cassia was merely three, so her memories of her mother only stemmed from her greatest source of strength, her father. He worked every single day, either doing blacksmith or leather work for the people in a subsidiary town on the outskirts of Mycenae. He was small in stature, but so great in heart. His smiles could outshine the sun itself and although they weren't necessarily well-off, he always managed to bring home something special for each of his daughters.

The corners of Cassia's mouth turned upward as she remembered her sister Alexandra. She called her Alex for short and completely looked up to her older sibling. Well, she was older by ten minutes, that is. Her sister was also her identical twin and they were the best of friends. The young servant fondly remembered all the times they role-played in the grassy field behind their homestead. Whereas Cassia had wanted to be like the Bard of Poteidaia, Alex wanted to grow up to be just like Xena of Amphipolis. Both girls would pretend they were on the prowl for war mongers and righting wrongs.

Then, a day came that their role playing became all too real and Cassia's world was changed forever.

Everyday, they went to town with their father while he went to work on shoeing horses or mending saddles. Cassia and her sister were both twelve. Once again, the girls were running about pretending to be the heroes they aspired to be. Cassia carried a tree limb which served as her staff, while Alex waved about the wooden sword their father had made her. The tip had been rounded so as to prevent any injury.

Playing in the street, the girls were embroiled in a game of 'fight for the greater good', until they heard a scream. A local woman had caught sight of a large army making their move toward the city. Those in earshot immediately stopped what they were doing.

The townspeople ran to take shelter while few remained to see what was going on. Both Cassia and Alex, being fearful of nearly nothing, stood in the middle of the street curiously as the riders approached. What better way to continue their game?

The men rode in on a cloud of dust. Their armor shined under the sun's glare. Their leader was enough to frighten any normal child. He brought his mount to a halt right at the feet of the two little girls, who were too transfixed to move.

"People of Mycenae, I'm sure you're well aware that we aren't here to simply take in your simple pleasures," the man stated as he patronizingly chuckled.

Alex raised her wooden sword and waved it about. "Get outta my town!"

Cassia gasped at her twin sister's indignation. She clasped her small hand over her sister's mouth and shook her head. "Alex!"

The leader of the motley crew laughed again. The army, comprised of over three-dozen men, joined in as well. He jumped from his mount and began to make his way toward the girls in slow, intimidating steps, a feral gleam in his eyes.

Cassia took note of the dark greasy hair pushed back behind his ears and how the stench of alcohol burned her nostrils. Scars littered his face, covered in spots by unkept stubble. The gritty sound of his footsteps trodding across the dirt street echoed in her ears. The man stopped in front of the two girls and sneered.

"Who are you supposed to be," he questioned, eyeing Alex over as she continued to wave her sword.

"Xena," Alex shouted back as convincingly as she could.

The man laughed. "The 'Warrior Princess'??"

"That's right. So, if you know what's best for ya, you'll get outta my town," the little girl stated as her black hair fell about her face.

Turning his back to her, he looked to the small group of onlooking commoners. "Is this Mycenae's only form of protection nowadays? Where's your royal guard? You let your children defend you? PATHETIC!"

It was then that Alex ran up behind the man. She placed her sword between his legs and then forcefully swung upward, subsequently injuring the 'family jewels'. He fell to the ground cupping his crotch and winced in pain.

Laughter sprung out from some of the army members, while the simple townspeople looked on unable to say a word. Cassia's eyes were wide in shock, but her sister stood there as pleased as could be. Alex twirled her weapon in her hand, and grinned as she raised it skyward.

As the throbbing began to slowly subside, the leader of the group reached for his sword and spun around. He was seething with anger.

Spit flew from his mouth as he spat, "You forget little girl! Xena's dead!"

It was then, that something Cassia had never thought possible, happened. She had never encountered a being that was completely apathetic. She was a child, too young to realize what a blackened heart could do.

Alex, so brave and cocky, only managed to bat an eyelash as his sword came down, ending her days.

Her own, carved out of wood, rolled from her limp hand.

Cassia cried out in horror. She looked from the body of her sister to the man standing over her. She shook her head in utter disbelief and tears began to pour like rain as she raced to find her father. She screamed over and over, "Daddy!!!! Daddy!!!!!!"

Still in the forge, he had been working and was unaware of the army that had ridden in. The noise of pounding metal and sizzling coals drowned out sounds from beyond the shop, so, it wasn't until Cassia threw open the door that he stopped his work.

He dropped the mallet from his hand, ran up to his daughter and picked her up. He'd seen the tears and the look of shock on her face. "Cassia!? What is it!? What's wrong??"

She couldn't speak. Her words would not come. Her father's eyes lowered as he tried to read what it was that was that had upset her.

"Cassia!? What's wrong?!" It was then he realized that Alex, who normally never left Cassia's side, was nowhere to be seen. "Where's Alexandra?!"

Weakly, and between the wracking sobs that pounded through her, Cassia pointed. He looked to where she directed and a feeling of dread came over the smith. Carefully, he lowered her to the ground and told her to stay there.

She didn't realize that it would be the last time she'd ever see her father.

Cassia had sat within the forge for nearly a candlemark, listening to the screams of the people as the town was sacked. In the corner, her legs pulled up to her chest, she lowered her face into her knees and continued to cry. Hearing footsteps, she meekly lifted her head, wiping the tears away from her eyes.

"Daddy?"

The shadowed soldier grinned and called out toward the street, "Got another one right here! She'll make for some dinars at the slave auction!"

Cassia wiped a tear from her face. It had been fourteen years since that day...fourteen years of being traded from city to city with each new barter. As soon as she made friends she found herself being separated from them, but still, she would not lose hope. .

She rolled onto her back and gazed at the ceiling. Swallowing back the lump in her throat, she closed her eyes and whispered, "One day, I will be free."

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