Judgment (Part 7)
by Something Royal

Webmaster Note: To make this story load a little easier in your browser, it was split into several web pages. This page begins Part 7 of "Judgment" by Something Royal. Part 1 is HERE.

When night fell, they all gathered for dinner as they had the previous evening. Xena had made her apologies to both Taris and Nikolaus for her untimely departure. They were understanding of the situation and that had set her mind at ease. She didn't like making plans she couldn't keep, and their genuine support diffused any notion that she was letting them down.

"So tell us, Xena, when will we see you and Gabrielle again," Taris asked. She was truly interested and it showed by the expectant look in her eyes. Nikolaus too, seemed rather intrigued by the news.

"I can't really answer that. There's no way to tell." Xena lazily stirred the broth sitting in front of her and shrugged. "I really would prefer to stay and help here, but-"

"There's no need to explain," Nikolaus assured her. "We'll be here when you get back, and with a ton of new ideas I'm sure."

Ares took in the conversation. He hadn't offered much in the way of participation, but the ever changing expressions on his face told more than any words could.

Gabrielle, on the other hand, seemed to be overtaken with anticipation. "Yes, I'm sorry too, but I would be lying if I didn't say I was excited."

"Completely understandable." Nikolaus smiled before reaching for a piece of bread.

Cassia capped the bard's shoulder. "I don't blame you! I remember once, when I was still in Pylos, a man from Japa came to barter with King Dmitri. The way he described his country--it sounds simply breath-taking."

Xena's eyes snapped up at this. While she had openly discussed her plans to go there, she hadn't made mention of anything else--not even to Gabrielle. She sat there, continuing to make laps in the soup bowl with her spoon. Sure enough, her attempt at looking preoccupied did nothing to impede the question she knew was coming.

"So, tell me, Xena, ever been there? Is what I heard true?"

"Cassia, it's," she hesitated, casting Ares a look that basically screamed 'I don't care to talk about this'. He looked at her sympathetically and she forced herself to go on, "it is, indeed, a beautiful place."

"So, you have been there," Taris asked, an eyebrow piqued in interest.

Gabrielle awaited Xena's reply as well. She had no inkling of her friend's past in regard to Japa, but deduced that she would have most likely been there during her days with Borias.

"I'm sorry, what," Xena asked, finally letting go of her spoon and clasping her hands in front of her.

"I was just wondering if you meant you had been there--Japa," Taris reiterated.

"Once, a long time ago," Xena's brow wrinkled and she leaned back in her seat. It creaked and the sound did nothing to ease her tension.

"Tell us about it," Cassia eagerly requested. "The man--the one I was telling you about-- he talked about how the cities are lit-"

"Lit," Xena repeated, her mouth growing dry, remembering the fire, the screams. She could hear them as clear as day, still ringing in her head.

Gabrielle noticed as her friend began to pale.

"Yes, lit with a thousand paper lanterns. They say it's quite a sight."

She relaxed. "Oh. Yes, that's true," Xena closed her eyes and brought her fingers to oddly rest on the bridge of her nose. "Listen, I'm sorry, and I realize I won't be seeing you all for some time, but I'm really tired and there's a long journey ahead." She turned to look at Ares, silently asking if he would accompany her.

"Yes, I think a good night's rest is just what you need," he agreed, rising to stand.

Nikolaus pushed his own chair back. The legs of it grated against the stone floor. "I think it's time we get to bed as well, yes," the councilman asked, offering Taris a hand.

"Yes, Niko." She discarded her cloth napkin on the table and regarded Ares as she got up. "There is much to be done. I do hope you'll be up to it."

"I'm looking forward to it."

Gabrielle watched as everyone, sans Cassia and herself, prepared to leave. "I guess I should get to bed as well."

"I'm not tired in the least. If it isn't too troubling, I was hoping you would let me read a few more of your scrolls before you had to pack up. Is that alright," she asked.

"Sure, I'll get them for you. I'm flattered that you're so interested in them." Gabrielle got up and pushed her chair under the marble-topped table. "Just leave them at my door before you get to bed."

"No problem."

"Ok then," Gabrielle answered before looking to Xena. "So, an early start, right?"

"Right," she confirmed.

Taris and Nikolaus made their way around the table, their steps intermittently hushed by spaced out furs below. The former reached out and pulled Xena close. "Safe journey." She pulled back, placing her hands upon the warrioress' armored shoulders, and smiled. "Though, I'm sure you'll be just fine."

"Thank you, for everything, Taris." She truly meant that. This woman had helped her not only in stopping the execution, but in admitting a few things to herself. She felt fairly certain that Taris knew just how much she appreciated this, though words couldn't do the feeling justice.

Ares offered his thanks as well. "Yes, thank you--both of you." He extended a hand and clasped Nikolaus about the wrist. "You're a brave man. Sparta couldn't ask for a more capable leader."

"Thanks to you all," the elder man stated. "Gabrielle," he started, turning to face her as she approached, "we'll get those plans for the library underway while you're gone, but I do insist you take part upon your return."

She smiled warmly. "I can't wait to see what you come up with."

Taris offered her a hug as well and afterward, she and Nikolaus began to make their departure, fondly looking back at these people who had done so much to secure their land...these people who graciously agreed to help them to better it as well.

"Goodnight," both called out in unison before turning down the hall and disappearing into the shadows.

The bard spun around and clasped Cassia by the shoulder. "You ready to be bored out of your mind?"

Xena scoffed as she crossed her arms and put out a foot. "Excuse me? Bored? This you say in regard to stories about me," she asked in jest, although, she wasn't particularly in the mood for humor.

"Now, Xena, I'm just being modest."

"That's new," Ares snorted.

"Funny, Ares, real funny. You just better watch it, or I'll stay behind just to annoy the pants off you."

He raised a brow and made a face. "Sorry, but there's only one person who can do that."

"Annoy you? Why, Ares, I'm tou-" The bard was cut off.

"No, get my pants off," he clarified, looking pointedly at Xena.

Gabrielle shook her head, smirking bemusedly. "Someone is trying to get their groove on and I don't want to be here when it happens. Night, Xena."

She slightly reddened. "Gabrielle--"

"Yesss?"

Xena couldn't help but laugh at the innocent expression on her friend's face. "Nevermind..Just get to bed and remember, I'm getting you up early."

Gabrielle looked at her slyly and whispered, "Something tells me I'll be the one doing the waking if someone gets their way."

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

Xena opened the mahogany door to her bedroom, minding the candle she held. Her eyes widened upon noticing that the wicks of others, placed sparingly along the room, were already glowing with playful flames. She reckoned that one of the palace staff had tended to them at the request of her hosts. Xena set her candle down on a dresser beside the bed, retrieved her satchel and tossed it on the matress.

Ares moved to shut the door and winced slightly as it creaked the whole time. When he turned around to inspect the lodgings, he inwardly laughed. The walls were a light pink color and the sheets on the bed were the same, accentuated with frills and embroidered with, oddly enough, little flowers.

"No wonder you wanted to stay in my room."

Rummaging through her satchel, Xena peered over her shoulder and grinned. "Getting away from mine wasn't the only reason I wanted to do that."

Ares took his bottom lip between his teeth and chuckled as he continued his perusal of the room. He walked up to a large dresser which was lined with what looked like doilies and skin colorants. Above this was a large, ornate mirror. He checked himself out in it and flexed briefly before looking down again.

There was a piece pottery with flowers painted on it that he just couldn't resist picking up. He opened it and looked inside, finding what appeared to be a white cream. The former Olympian knew what it was--a lead based face paint. It was all the rage of the noble ladies in Rome. He quickly closed the jar, set it back down, and diligently wiped his fingers off on his leather pants.

"That stuff will do a number on you."

Xena was reaching for something under the bed and when he noticed this, Ares couldn't help but appreciate the way the straps of her battledress dangled teasingly over her behind.

"Yea, I saw that." She began to back up, but lifted her head too soon and bumped it on the sideboard. "Ow!"

Ares' brows rose as she sat back on her butt and rubbed her head. "Problem?"

"No, no problem, " she ground out between her teeth, forcing a smile. "Look."

One hand still buried in her hair, she held up the other. Propped in it was something that made him nearly double over with laughter. "You can't be serious--"

"Makes you kinda wonder who was the last person to stay here, doesn't it," she asked coyly, throwing the manacles she'd found back beneath the bed. They landed loudly on the wooden floor and screeched to a halt.

"Sure you want to leave them there, Xena," Ares asked, a naughty glint in his eyes. "I mean, you never know when you'll need a good pair of sturdy manacles." The sneaky purse of her mouth caused a smile to play on his lips, yet he earnestly shook his head. "What am I going do while you're gone?"

The tone in which he spoke was serious and did not infer anything than a genuine admission that he would miss her. Ares walked toward her, offering her a hand. She took it and stood.

"Let me see your head." Xena complied and tilted it down. He pushed her hair back and drew his fingers along her scalp. “Feels ok to me."

"Ares?"

"Yes," he asked, continuing his examination.

"Thank you."

He stepped back. She righted herself and her hair cascaded over her shoulders. Ares thoughtfully took a lock in his hand and rubbed it between his thumb and finger.

"What for?"

Xena shrugged. "I don't know the answer to that. It was just something I had to say." She pressed her lips together and looked back at the bed. "There's really not much for me to pack. For some reason, I thought there would be more. Feels like I'm leaving something-" she stopped herself, realizing that that 'something' was really someone. "Never mind," she quietly dismissed.

Ares had caught on to the underlying meaning of her words and sat down on the bed. "You know I'll come with you if you want."

"I know." Her lips quickly flickered up and just as quickly lowered. "But, like I told you earlier-"

"Yeah, I remember." He looked away. Ares knew she would be leaving in a matter of hours. Though he was adamant about keeping the mush factor low, he had learned not to take moments like these for granted. "Xena, I can't tell you how much these past few days..what they.."

"And I can't find the words to explain how much they've meant to me either." She scratched her arm and sat down next to him. "Remember when we were watching the sunrise at the Eurotas?"

"Yes. You told me that the sunrise was symbolic of all things having the capacity to start anew. I asked 'even me' and-"

"Yeah..Well, now that I look back on that day, I know that what I meant was...even us." Xena tore her eyes away from him shyly. "Ares, for years I thought you could be nothing more than my enemy."

"Well, I didn't really do anything to prove otherwise."

She took those words into consideration and tipped her head. "True, you didn't."

Ares' stare dropped to the floor.

Xena took her lip between her teeth and placed her hand on his arm. "Listen, I didn't mean-"

"No, it's ok. You're right." Her hand rested warmly upon his skin and he covered it with his own. "Xena, this whole experience has opened my eyes and when I think back to what I did...I can't fathom why you stood by me."

"Because we're alike, you and I. We're two sides of the same coin. If I couldn't find it in my heart to accept your apology, then how could I possibly expect the same from others?" She glanced down at her tattered leathers and took a breath. "I realized something else-"

"What?"

"That night-- when I couldn't get my horse down the hill-- you told me I couldn't push her, that I had to let her look first, let her see that it was alright. I remember I told you that I never pegged you for someone to know so much about horses. Then you went on to say that you didn't. Well, I didn't understand what that meant at the time."

"And now?"

"Now I know you weren't talking about the horse at all. You meant me, didn't you?"

He closed his eyes and nodded. "I pushed you for far too long, and all it managed to do was drive you farther away."

"Well," she leaned in, "even when I toss my chakram, it always, eventually, comes back. It's just a matter of waiting."

He looked at her then and just as before, she felt so starkly naked. The shadows lingered on his face, yet candlelight burned in his eyes.  Ares brought a hand to rest upon her shoulder while the other cupped her jaw. The sensation his fingers caused to stir as they trailed across her skin, was enough to cause her heart to pick up its pace. She wondered if he knew what feelings he was prompting to well inside her.

Xena found her answer upon observing the sensual draw of his mouth.

He gently pushed her down on the bed, all the while barely grazing her lips with his own as he whispered, "For you, I could wait an eternity."

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

Ocher light slid like waves against funneled glass, emitted from the saturated wicks of oil lamps which burned bright. The tips of these cotton tongues grew dark with each lick of the flames. The luminaries' brass bottoms also glinted, shunning away the black of night. But, if one looked close enough at the base of one, beyond the light that lined its creases, they would find the reflection of two piercing, blue eyes.

When the owner of these glowing sapphires did just that, she tore her stare away.

Xena's feet were planted firmly upon the cobbled stone of the Royal Spartan stables. The floor was immaculate. Bales of both hay and straw sat neatly piled in the far corner. Each stall door was closed and the horses beyond their gates peacefully stood at rest. Her own was cross-tied in the isle beside her.

She checked the girth of the saddle and satisfied it was secure, Xena threw a rolled fur on top of the mare's back and tied it into place with leather cording.

"You almost done there, Gabrielle?" She peered back at her friend, whose horse was tied behind her own.

"Yeah, just about," she called back, adjusting her horse's bridle. The straw nearby caused her to sneeze. The gelding bobbed his head in response, causing the metal links of his tethers to jingle as they swayed.

Xena took to adjusting her own bridle. Her fingers were moving so quickly that it was a wonder they didn't become entangled. "We gotta hurry. He'll realize I'm not there soon, and come looking."

"Are you hurrying because you're worried about Ares seeing you--or you seeing Ares," Gabrielle asked, as if reading her mind.

The answer was the latter, though Xena dared not issue that reply. She knew, regardless of his support last night, that he would attempt to persuade her to stay. Part of her wanted him to, which made her necessity for speed intensify. After all the years of denying him, this time, she couldn't trust herself to say no.

"Just hurry up, ok."  She did a once over, making sure all of her belongings were strapped to the saddle. "Kenji will be waiting for us at the port."

At the mention of 'port', Gabrielle cringed. "Ships. I just love ships. The rocking, the swaying," she shuddered, "the puking."

"Well, then you'll love this. We'll be traveling across at least three different bodies of water," Xena informed her.

"Wonderful." She pretended to retch, but, realizing that her attempt at humor was not doing anything for friend's demeanor, recomposed herself. "Alright, I'm done." Gabrielle dusted her hands and tossed her satchel across her shoulder. "What about the lamps?"

"The grooms will be in soon to feed the horses. They'll be fine-- lets just get a move on already. The sun will be rising shortly." Xena untethered her horse, her friend did the same, and both headed to exit the barn. There were a set of doors on each end and they opted for the closest.

Just in front of them, the Warrior Princess stopped. She felt the hairs on the back of her neck begin to stand, and her lips parted just enough to expose the milky white line of her teeth. She slowly blinked. From behind her, she could hear the doors at the other end of the barn open. Moonlight flooded the hall, mingling with that of the oil lamps, and exposing wafting dust which curled and spun within the stable.

Xena swallowed back and stiffened. "Gabrielle, why don't you go wait for me outside-"

The younger of the pair looked down the hall. There, immersed in dancing shadow and light, was a figure dressed in black. It was no doubt Ares, though she couldn't actually see his face.

Gabrielle, horse in tow, walked past Xena. Her eyes were dotted by the lamplight overhead, but this didn't mask the understanding look they exuded. "Take all the time you need."  The bard reached for the doors and pushed them open. More moonlight spilled into the barn, and the creaking brass hinges caused a few of the stalled horses to neigh. "I'll be right here," she confirmed with a faint smile, before exiting and closing the doors behind her.

"Ares," Xena acknowledged, now that they were alone. She stood frozen in place, never daring to face him, taking in the sound of each step he made. The rhythmic scrape of his boot treads upon the cobbled isle caused her heartbeat to quicken, though her exterior did not betray this. Instead, she forced tongue to comply in an attempt to support her facade. "Funny, but even as you are now, I still get those tingles. Always thought they were just because-"

"So, you were going to leave without even saying good-bye," he questioned, cutting her off.

He came to a halt beside her and idly put a hand on the mare's neck.

She meekly nodded. There was no point in lying to him. They'd shared too much to do that now. "Yes. I--I don't like good-byes."

Ares bobbed his head as he regarded the back of hers. "I just wanted to see you before you left."

"Well, here I am." She finally turned and wistfully smiled. "I'm sure I look a mess."

He dismissed the self-mockery with a subtle shake of the head. "I 'spose I didn't let you get much rest." Ares grinned, causing his dimples to playfully flicker. "And no," he continued, drawing the backs of his fingers down the side of her face, "you don't look a mess." The truth was, in his eyes, she was always radiantly beautiful.

Her skin became noticeably flushed and she grasped his hand to halt his caress. "Look, you're not making it any easier for me to leave."

"Then don't," he replied, turning his hand around within her grasp, managing to part her fingers with his own. "Stay here. Stay with me."

She had to force herself to look away. "You know I can't."

"Yeah, I know," he sighed, letting her hand slip from his. "You understand I had to try?"

A quiet chuckle passed her lips.

"You never give up...and-"

"And?"

Xena raised her eyes and the lines of her mouth gracefully drew upward. "I wouldn't want it any other way."

"Well, just think," Ares started, observing her horse and packed gear. "While you're out being a hero, I'll be here doing parchment work. That thought alone should keep you amused." He cocked a brow at her and rolled his eyes.

"It is pretty funny," she snorted, before going on in earnest, "but it's truly for the betterment of these people." Xena placed a hand upon his forearm and took a step closer. "Anyone who works for that goal is a hero."

"Me--a hero? I doubt anyone saw that coming."

She tightened her grip on him, the smile on her face growing wider. Xena began to shake her head, but, in doing so, she caught a glimpse of something that prompted a sullen look. Through the opened barn doors at the end of the barn, the ones he had opened when halting her departure, lavender light could be seen. Dawn was imminent. 

"Ares, I gotta go-" She clamped her mouth shut, embarrassed at the way her words fell waveringly from her lips.

"I know," he deftly answered as he dropped his stare to the ground. Ares had the utmost confidence in her capabilities, but it still didn't lessen the concern. "Just be careful, ok? I can't look in on you anymore to rescue your butt."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Well, Xena...let's just say there were times that I didn't just sit back and watch."  He drew a finger down her hairline and pursed his lips. Despite the sensual pout, the reflected lamplight in his eyes exposed the seriousness behind them. "Be careful," he beseeched as the growing lump in his throat begrudgingly bobbed.

She regarded him, perplexed and moved all at the same time. Their eyes locked as they had so often as of late. The burning light lining his stare seemed to grow-- threatening to consume her.

Ares drew her close, pressing her body against his. She could feel the sweet fall of his breath on her face as he indulged in hers, and soon, their lungs became drunken on one another's scent. It was a poignant intoxication.

Xena had once heard that a kiss could be as intensely passionate as the act of making love. This was a notion which she had always thought to be ridiculous. That was, until these past few days.

Each time their mouths met, she felt like she could stay there forever. Each time they parted, she was left with a reminder. Xena felt that her lips were never so soft as they were afterward. She'd draw her tongue across them, noting their swollenness, how they felt like they were on fire, and how they retained the taste of the one who had caused them to feel this way.

Now, she made the resolve to kiss him as hard and as deep as she could. Though, for a brief moment, Xena didn't know if her trembling lips would comply. This uncertainty was soon dashed, for as Ares took them between his own, they ceased to shake.

Her eyes were squeezed as tight as possible in an attempt to make the world around them just melt away. She wanted to savor each moment, every breath and touch. That riptide was beckoning her back to drown in it.

There was a static energy between the two, so dense it was nearly tangible and with each slide of his tongue, a myriad of memories were stirred. They enveloped her just as tightly as the arms wrapped around her waist. Their past eclipsed her mind's eye-- from the moment their threads first drew into one another, to this very second. Echoing through it all was the whispered statement he had made that first day, so long ago---a declaration she now knew to be true.

"It is your destiny to be by my side."

Yes, she know knew it was true. He hadn't lied that day. Though not in the way he had planned, those words had always been ingenuous and she knew he was right about something else. They were destined to rule together---not as conquerors of land, but of each other's heart.

They embraced on what was, to them, the end of the known world, ready to plunge into uncharted territory. Together, they would jump and find their way--their place in it-- but, before the journey could be started, Xena knew another had to be completed.

Her eyes opened as the kiss reached its crescendo, revealing not only their crystalline sparkle, but the longing that laced them. She stared into his and, despite their dark contrast, they reflected the same want, the same passion.

Xena brought her reddened bottom lip between her teeth and ran a hand down his face.

"I love you, Ares."

"I know," he replied, leaning into her touch.

Xena pressed her lips together again and felt a burning sensation beyond her glossing eyes. She closed them as her hand slid from his face. The morning seemed somehow colder now, and her feet felt numb.

Ares, too, noted the newly found chill in the barn. It seemed to tunnel through the isle and sweep past each exposed inch of flesh. Blinking, he turned away, looking to the opposite entrance of the barn. The sky was continuing to grow more pale, the stars had all but fallen, and the moon was making its descent.

He tore his stare away as he heard the sound boots scraping against the cobbled isle. Xena was gathering her reins back up. Ares quietly watched as she did so, but when she turned to leave, he found himself just a step behind her. Before she could push the doors open, he placed a hand upon her shoulder.

It seemed to weaken beneath his touch as she moved to speak.

"Goo-"

"This isn't good-bye, Xena." He felt her hand draw its way upon his own and just past her shoulder, he could make out the line of her face, the edges of her lashes. "I'll see you later."

Though he couldn't see it, a fire sparked in her eyes. "Of that, there is no doubt."

Ares nodded and reluctantly drew his hand back. Xena stiffened as, for just a split second, she thought her legs uncomplacent with her silent order to move. The Warrior Princess took a deep breath, willing them on. Her limbs finally complied and, without a moment longer to hesitate, she kicked the doors open. They creaked unnervingly and upon parting, what moonlight was left seeped into the barn. Xena, her mare in tow, stepped out into the remnants of night and was bathed in its receding blue glow.

Ares stood back, watching the woman he loved go off to war without him. The instant this thought birthed within his mind, he found himself immobile, mulling it over. He didn't put too much weight in metaphors, but this one made him feel something he could not define--a sort of unease.

Little did he know that as she walked away, she was thinking the same thing.

Gabrielle, who had waited patiently, watched as Xena approached. Her face was cast in shadow, though the bard could see--without obstruction-- the somberness behind her blue eyes.

She leaned forward in her saddle and briefly looking toward the barn, asked, "Is...everything ok?"

 "Yeah." 

Xena turned and set her sights on the stable once more. She could just barely make out his form standing in the dark recesses, but she knew he was still there, waiting and watching. That's when she recalled what he had told her last night, words she hoped were true for she had no idea when she would find herself in his arms again.

"For you, I could wait an eternity."

Xena's tongue trailed along her swollen lips--her reminder. She could still feel him there, taste his lips upon her own, and faintly, she smiled. They had found each other again after all this time...and she would find her way back again.

For now, she had to set her sights elsewhere.   

"You ready?"   

"Ready, Gabrielle." Xena gathered her reins and mounted. "Lets go." 

And go, they did.

Ares remained in the barn, watching until they disappeared. He let out the breath he'd been holding since she'd walked away and backed up to lean against a stall door. The horse inside brought its head over and roughly nuzzled him in the arm, leaving a wet trail behind.

"Do I look like I need your sympathy," he asked, gently pushing the animal's nose away. The horse dejectedly jerked its head up. "C'mon now, don't give me that look." Ares wiped his arm and looked down. There was a barrel of oats next to him and he scooped a handful up. "Here."

The horse gently nickered as Ares raised the oats to its mouth. While the animal went to work on the treat, he absent-mindedly stroked its face. "There now, truce?"

The answer was a blatant 'yes,' because, Ares' hand now bare, the horse nudged him again. He scooped up another portion of oats and it gratefully started on the second helping. He meekly smiled and continued to pat the horse's head, but, just a second later, the animal's  ears went flat as it jerked its head up and began to neigh loudly. Unchewed oats fell from the horse's mouth and the cry was joined with those of its stablemates.

"What's the matt-," Ares stopped abruptly, now sensing something himself. Taking a step back, he brushed his hands off and scowled. "Why don't you just come out already?"

"Maybe because I'm scared."

Ares crossed his arms, and kept his back to the visitor. "Or maybe because you feel guilty??  Isn't that the more appropriate answer?"

"Maybe it is."

The barn was flooded with a pink iridescent flash of light. It soon dissipated and standing in its wake was someone who he had thought long gone.

"Ares."

"Aphrodite," he acknowledged, still refusing to face her. "So, you finally decided to show up. For awhile there, I thought Athena locked you away someplace, never to be heard from again."

She awkwardly stood behind him, clutching her chiffon like a child. "No. I was-"

"Ignoring me," Ares asked bitingly as he finally turned around . "Well, my ever loyal sister, tell me, what brings you here?" The sarcasm was simply undeniable.

She jerked her head away and averted her eyes. "That's not fair, bro!"

"Not fair," he asked, then again, louder, "Not fair?? Let me tell you about not being fair." Ares pointed a finger at her, bobbing it accusingly.  "I called for you more times than I can count, and when you never answered, I thought something terrible had happened."

"Ar-"

"I mean, my own sister wouldn't just let me lose my mind in some pit, would she? That's what I kept telling myself, and y'know what, I mourned you, thinking you were gone for good. Now I find out that you've been around all this time, yet you let me rot in prison. You almost let me get-"

"STOP IT," she hollered back, daring a step closer. "I KNOW you must be upset with me. I'm a bit miffed at myself, but Ares, I was so angry."

"Yeah, and I was just fine and dandy, rotting away in jail, looking forward to the day they were going to slip that noo-"

"Ares!" Aphrodite's shoulders shook. "I didn't come here to fight with you!"

"Then what did you come for?!"

She backed down and turned away, crossing her arms upon her chest. "I came to explain."

Ares spitefully laughed. "Explain? This should be good." He stepped back and leaned against a stall front. "So, where were you?"

"I was mourning." She looked at him then. Her eyes were glossy and her mouth, uncharacteristically twisted. Ares' face seemed to soften. "You know I lost my husband that day."

"What did you expect her to do? We were going after her child, Aphrodite."

"I know! And when she asked for my help, I didn't walk away. My instincts were screaming at me to just that, but I didn't. I took her to Olympus. She pleaded for me to, and I did, thinking she would find some way to talk to them-"

"They weren't going to drop it. Xena did what she had to do."

"I know that, now. But, Ares, I was so bitter. When I returned to find Athena and Artemis," she shook her head contritely, "..and you had helped her do it. I resented you both." 

He took his lip between his teeth and shrugged. "Love's your thing. Couldn't you understand that I wouldn't let her-"

"That was what made me feel all the more... more.."

"Caustic," he offered.

She acknowledged the sardonic reply and corrected him. "No, I was going to say betrayed. I lost my love that day--in more ways than one. I felt like you turned your back on all that you were, and so, I turned my back on you."

Ares took a breath, looked to the cobbled floor and shrugged. "Well, all I know is that I had to make a choice. There was no time to think about it. So, for once in my entire existence, I followed my heart."

"I know, and I finally understand that." Looking up at wooden rafters above, she placed her hands on her shoulders and surreptitiously swayed. "That's why I'm here to make amends."

He raised his eyes at this. "Make amends?"

"Ares, I'm sorry for what I did. I shut you out, literally, since that day... till finally, I saw-"

"The lightning," he questioned, standing tall. "That was you, wasn't it?"

She nodded. "I couldn't just stand by and do nothing. Not anymore."

"The situation was under control. What you did was not necessary."

"Well, this is." Aphrodite held her hand out to the side. A bottle appeared, introduced by a shatter of pink sparks. The glass was the same blushing color. "It's time to do something that shoulda been done long ago."

Ares lowered a brow. "What are you going on about?"

"I can't let you stay angry with me, Ar. You're all that's left, and it's so lonely on Olympus by myself."

"Aphrodite, is that-"

"Ambrosia," she answered. "It's time to go back where you belong."

He took a step toward her, finding it a difficult task to manage. "Where I belong?"

She looked at him as if it that was the silliest question. "Yes! Just look at you, Bro. You're a mess."

Ares took those words into consideration. He looked down at his hands, rough and callused. Every one of his muscles ached, each rib was sore, and he couldn't help but think she was right... He was a mess, and all of this could be fixed with nothing more than one small drop of ambrosia. That was all that would be necessary, and there it sat in her, now, opened palm, waiting to be drunk.

Slowly, he reached for it, daring to touch the bottle. "Aphrodite--"

"Go on, take it," she urged, moving to roll it into his hand.

Ares felt the glass graze his skin. It was so warm to the touch and he felt the impulse to just rip it away from her, right there and then, and down it like ale. Yet, unlike alcohol, its warmth would not flee after a mere few hours. He took note of how it seemed to radiate a magnificent electricity as it languidly churned and he licked his lips, thinking how it would taste so sweet..so unbearably sweet...

Ares swallowed and tore his eyes away, setting them on his sister. "Dite, I-"

"Just take it, Bro," she smiled, pleased that he was, seemingly, accepting her token of truce, "you'll be back to normal in no time."

And that's when reality came crashing down. He didn't want to be 'back' to being anything. Going back, by definition, meant regression. That was not an appealing thought, especially considering all the things he'd learned. This world didn't exactly make sense to him, but he found something that he had never felt before..and that was self-respect. No, it had been too long a journey to turn back now.

 Ares' fingers curled into a fist and he jerked his arm back. "I can't."

"Ar? What do you mean... you can't?" Dite's brows lowered considerably as she closed her hand and lowered her arm.

"Just that."

"Don't you wanna-"

Ares sat down on a nearby bale of straw. "No, I belong here now."

"You would rather stay here," she questioned, completely baffled. "You weren't meant to-"

"Maybe I was all along. Maybe that was the twist, the one thing holding me back from what I was seeking."

Aphrodite crossed her arms. "Xena, right?"

"Yes, Xena," he placed his hands on his knees and rubbed, "but also,  a feeling of completion."

"Completion?"

"Yeah. For centuries, it was one battle after another, after another... the anticipation of a new plan, new strategy, only to feel empty after it was done." Ares saw his sister was simply not following and tried to explain in a way she might better understand. "Think of a flower at the top of a mountain. You climb all the way up this thing, just trying to get that blossom because it looks nice and smells good. You get there, you take it, and after all that effort it wilts within a few days time."

"You make it sound like your whole existence has been nothing but one disappointment after another."

"No, that's not what I mean. What I mean is that it's been one long climb to the top of that mountain and when I got there, I realized I climbed the wrong one." He opened his hands, making her look at how much they had changed. "I might look a mess, Sis, but I feel capable of taking on the world."

"And you want her by your side." Aphrodite sat down beside her brother. "I know what you feel for each other, but Ares, one day you'll grow old, you'll-"

"The point is-- we'll grow." Ares wrapped his arm, somewhat hesitantly, around her shoulders.

She closed her eyes. "Please reconsider."

"Go back where you belong. My place is here," he stated, taking his arm from around her and standing.

She watched as he began to walk away, heading toward the opened doors of the barn, not even sparing her another look. "Ares," she called out, clumsily rising to her feet. He stopped, but kept his back to her. "Are you still mad at me?"

 "No," he answered curtly before disappearing into the shadows.

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

An expanse of water, such a dark shade of blue that it almost looked like slicken marble, jutted up and down. The smell of salt was in the air, as well as fish. Hundreds sat upon the knotted wood of the deck, bound tightly in nets. Some still flexed their gills, gasping for breath. A few eels were set out loose on the boards. Their bodies curled back and forth as they attempted to traverse the deck with little success.

A short man with a stocky frame walked up to them. He wore a smock which appeared to have once been white. It was now marked with oil and grease, darkened to a dingy grey. He pulled the length of it up, bringing it to his brow to wipe the perspiration away.

The fisherman's face was sun beaten and so tanned that it looked more like leather than skin. He ran a hand through his short brown hair and picked one of the eels up. It squirmed like mad, but he simply swung his arm down as hard as he could, using the force to knock the creature out of existence.

Gabrielle watched him repeat the action with the second eel and turned away. She could feel nausea make its case and she desperately tried to steady herself. Grabbing the railing, she dug her nails into the wood.

Xena put a hand on her shoulder, another on one of the mast ropes as she stared sympathetically at her friend. "Y'know you could always do the pinch I showed you. There's no squid on board this ship. You're safe."

Gabrielle sucked in, remembering that time long ago when she'd resorted to eating squid, and Xena could almost see her change two shades of green right before her eyes. The bard jerked her head over the rail and let her lunch, which had been fish, return to the sea.

"That's it, let it all out," Xena patted her back, "just be sure not to let it all out into the wind."

Gabrielle spit and stumbled back a step. Dragging her arm across her mouth, she meekly looked up. "Help me."

The Warrior Princess chuckled and applied pressure to her wrist. "There, you'll be fine. Just another week or so and we'll be on land."

"Where's Kenji," Gabrielle asked, wiping her mouth again, only this time, with the back of her hand.

"He's still below. I don't think he cares to be around me." She shrugged. "I can't blame the man."

During their time at sea, Xena had filled Gabrielle in on her experience in Japa. The bard had been, understandably, taken aback by the story. When listening to her friend tell it, it was like hearing a tale about someone else. She never could reconcile this Xena with the one of old, not completely anyway. 

After Xena had told her what had happened, Gabrielle planned to talk to Kenji. She guessed that if they could build a sort of comfort zone, he might open up to her, listen to her, and take to heart what she had to say about Xena's growth and change. Her plan was not as successful as she had hoped. Kenji preferred to keep company with them only when necessary.

Today, like the many days before it, the two friends took to the deck. The sun was burning bright and Xena had kept her hand perched above her eyes for most of the afternoon. Gabrielle, however, hadn't found it necessary to do so, since her head had been hanging over the railing for the same amount of time. She had refused to use the pressure technique throughout the duration of their journey, but the rolling waters of the Pacific proved to be too much for her stomach and enough was enough.

Men scuttled about on the deck behind them, taking to different tasks. Some cast nets, while others worked on gutting the catch. Regardless of what chore they performed, all of them were quite rowdy. Neither Gabrielle or Xena seemed to mind though. As long as they weren't causing them any trouble, they were no bother. Besides, Xena had far greater things weighing on her mind than fishermen drunk on ale and singing too loud.

After boarding the ship, Kenji had briefed her further on the situation. Coupled with the army which was laying waste to Japa's lands, was one comprised of samurai warriors. They were working for a common goal-- to overtake Edo. This information, along with news that the defending army was much fewer in number, had made cause for Xena's own stomach to turn.

If this had been disclosed earlier, she would have thought better of just jumping on the next ship and sailing out. Focus was something she had always claimed to be invaluable, but she had let her guilt in regard to the past cloud that. Xena didn't tell Gabrielle of her doubting thoughts, but, if the situation was truly as dire as it had been made to sound, she would make sure her friend was kept far away from any possible danger--even if it meant lying to her.

This wasn't the only matter to beckon her attention.

Another great weight sat upon her shoulders and lately, Xena considered changing her name to Atlas. Despite her efforts, she was unable to shake the feeling of separation. It caused a consecutive run of restless nights, each spent missing the warmth she had grown accustomed to in the mere span of two.

There were still a great many things she wanted to talk with Ares about, and she found herself often playing out those conversations in her mind. These thoughts would always turn to others of a more passionate nature. Xena decided that the moment she returned to Grecian soil, whenever that was, she would seek him out and make him pay for making her miss him. Not only that, but she would do so in a way that was mutually beneficial.

"Xena, what's that smirk about?"

"What?" She was caught. Grabbing the rail with both hands, she leaned back on her heels and offered a faint smile. "Nothin'"

"Sure. Let me guess, you're thinking about Mr. Tall Dark and Cocky." Gabrielle nudged her in the ribs. "Aren't you?"

"Maybe," Xena countered, pulling herself forward, placing her elbows down to rest on the wood.

"Well, when we get back, he can just read the scroll. I brought plenty of parchment and nearly a gallon of ink," Gabrielle laughed. "It'll be so detailed, he'll think he was here."

"Be sure to include the part about you yakking. He'll love that."

"Yeah, and what an eloquent part of the tale that would be." She pushed back her hair and turned to lean back against the wooden beam, staring up at the grand mast of the ship. The sail strained against the wind. It billowed out magnificently and the sun's light made it look like it was radiating. The bard's lips flickered up. "No, something tells me that this story is going to be the one I was looking for, a heroic tale of selflessness in the battle for the greater good."

Xena cast her a humble look. "You really try to paint me as some kind of invincible freedom fighter."

"Well, that's what you've been these past years. Why would I write any differently?"

The warrior stared out at the horizon and quietly replied, "Because, Gabrielle, no matter how much you may like to build that image up, I'm not infallible. I make mistakes."

"But, I think that's what makes you so intriguing. You're flawed, just like anyone else, but you always seem to overcome that. You defy the odds."

Xena grew quiet before asking, "Will you do something for me?"

"Of course."

"Don't take this request as anything more than just a precaution, but-" she slid her scabbard off her shoulder and extricated the sword, "incase anything should happen-"

"Nothing's going to happen," Gabrielle replied firmly.

"Incase anything should," Xena flipped the scabbard upside down and a small black pouch fell out, "I want you to make sure Ares gets this."

Reaching for it, curiosity clearly written upon her face, the bard nodded. "Alright, but-"

"Don't look at me like that," the warrior chastised, kicking at her leg, "just hang onto it for me for safe keeping." Xena dropped the pouch in her friend's hand.

Gabrielle shrugged. The pouch felt somewhat weighted. There was something hard and smooth inside--that much she could decipher from rolling it around in her hand. "Ok, but what is it?"

"Something that Menelaus had stored away. Taris found it. Just-" Xena looked away. "It's not that I don't trust you but-"

"Don't worry, I won't open it," she answered, knowing what her friend was about to say. "I'll just hold onto it till we get back to Greece." 

Xena looked at her meekly.

"C'mon? What's wrong," Gabrielle asked, concerned. She placed a hand on her friend's arm. "Xena? Are you worried about Japa?"

She turned to look at her friend, who had grown so much over the years. Gabrielle had been there for her, through good times and bad. The bard trusted her and Xena felt a pang of regret, knowing that she was about to lie to her.

"No, I'm not worried. I just like to make sure all bases are covered." She shrugged her scabbard back on, slipped the sword inside, and continued to bend the truth. "I'm also concerned about going back there...because of what I did in the past."

"Listen, you're a different person now. Your resolve to go there and, not only face these people, but fight for their security," Gabrielle grabbed her arm, making Xena face her, "they'll see that as making amends."

"Sometimes it's not that easy," she replied, her eyes downcast. "But, I'm not going to worry about it, or at least try not to. We'll see what happens when we get there." She looked up and patted Gabrielle's hand. "I'm alright, you don't need to keep staring at me like that," she assured her, raising a brow.

"Well, then smile already, would you?"

Xena did as asked. "There, ya happy now," she ground out between her bared teeth.

Gabrielle laughed and turned around. "Yes."

She watched as a fisherman, the one from earlier, came by, dragging a swordfish behind him. It had been gutted and the oily residue left from its entrails was spilling out on the deck just a mere few feet away.

"I think I'm going to go down below, Xena. It's hot, and looking at that," she pointed, "is not something I care to do. I'll be sure to put the pouch in my satchel."

"Alright. I'm just going to stay up here for awhile."

The bard nodded. "Ok, and listen, things always work out the way they should."

"Yes, they always do." Xena set her jaw and continued to watch the water roll. Dark would fall soon, and part of her desperately yearned for the dawn of a new day as she headed for the land of the rising sun.

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

The weeks had passed languidly and, within Sparta, Ares had worked endlessly on establishing a working democracy with the council. Taris and Nikolaus had told him, repeatedly, that they wouldn't be able to accomplish this goal so expediently without his help. The populous was continually reminded of his efforts by the regal pair, and by the city's improvements which sprung up as bountifully as flowers in spring.

Truth be told, he was proud of his work, though he had never considered himself the politician type. He found that, after eons' worth of reveling in the destruction of cities, he felt a sort of redemption in helping to rebuild one instead. Yes, he was working as diligently as possible, often times going nights without sleep, just to organize and plan for better reforms.

This was also his way of filling time. Xena had been gone now for a long while, and when there was nothing to do, he found himself worrying about her. This was the reason he didn't mind staying up all night. When he did rest, he couldn't control the myriad of doubts and concern floating about in his brain. So, he opted to keep himself as busy as possible, cram his head with numbers and economic details-- instead of anxiety.

Somewhere along the line, he had also formed a brotherly relationship with Cassia. The catalyst of this had been when he finally chose to tell her of her mother's true identity. The news had, admittedly, been quite a shock. It made the fact that Menelaus had traded for her all the more incredible.

Ares explained that, during the Trojan War, Xena had assisted Helen in escaping. Her mother had chosen to erase her identity, start a new life. She had traveled to Mycenae, and it was there that she met Cassia's father.

The young girl appreciated Ares coming forward with the information. She would often ask him questions about the war, about her mother, and sometimes, just about life in general. As the days waned, he started to take a fondness to her. Then one day, someone not aware of who Ares was spotted the two talking in Sparta's main square. The woman had mistakenly pegged them for brother and sister, going on about how much they looked alike.

Ares hadn't really noticed before, but the woman was right. They could pass for siblings. This became an inside joke, till finally, they just assumed to look at it as an adopted truth. As they grew closer, Cassia often asked Ares to tell her stories of the old days of the Olympian reign. At first, he was reluctant, but later, found he enjoyed talking about the subject, as long as the stories were not directly about him or the horrible things he'd done in the past.

One night, after telling Cassia a story about the Amazon nation, she asked him if he would teach her how to fight. She only wanted to know enough to defend herself if the need should ever arise, and that was something that Ares found reasonable. He often took to doing sword drills by himself and thought it would be quite refreshing to teach her some strategies, especially because it was for the right reason.

Now, he sat within his chambers, staring absent-mindedly at the glowing flame of a candle which sat upon the nightstand beside his bed. Its light, coupled with the moon's which filtered through a window, fell upon scattered parchments. Not a single one of the documents had room enough to spare a  letter more, for each inch was marked with ink from the top to the bottom. The handwriting was intricate, looking more like art than text, but then again, considering the author, this was no surprise.

After a few more minutes spent ruminating, Ares leaned back against the pillows, propping his head upon his clasped hands. They were marked with ink and he just knew that the substance was bound to rub off on the white slip covers, but he was simply too tired to worry about it. Rinsing his hands in the basin which sat upon the dresser a few feet away was an idea he did not want to entertain.

Ares still resisted the urge to rest, but his eyes had grown dry during the course of the evening and he reluctantly let them close. He wasn't sure how long they had been shut off from the world when he heard a knock.

"Just a minute," he groaned, rolling off the bed. He stumbled to the door and upon opening it, his eyes widened in disbelief. "It can't be. You-you're-"

"Well, I do enjoy a good surprise. I see that you've grown quite comfortable here in Sparta."  The guest smirked and slipped past Ares into the room. "So, tell me, how is my city doing these days?"

"What in the-"

"Oh, don't be so surprised. You know what they say...you can't keep a good man down."

"Well, then that still doesn't explain how you're here-- Menelaus."

The deposed monarch smiled, tight-lipped, and proceeded to walk towards the nightstand. He peered down at the documents littering the top and chuckled. "I see you've been busy."

"Just fixing your mistakes. Y'know, you're looking rather well-- considering you were burnt to a crisp." Ares paused as the last word spilled from his mouth. He couldn't explain why he was being so nonchalant, seeing as though a man he thought long gone was now standing in his room as if nothing had happened.

Menelaus tipped his head and rolled a hand. "Thank you. I'm sorry, but I can't return the complement. Seems that your new found place in this world doesn't agree with you."

"Excuse me?"  Ares dared to stand before the former monarch and glowered down at him. "For someone who isn't even supposed to be here at all, you really don't have room to talk."

"Don't I?"  The old man smiled again as he, too,  stepped closer. "I mean, Sparta was my home."

"Your home?? No, it was your playground."

"And the world was yours. Our goals were not so different. We both enjoyed the spoils of war, the prospect of conquest. We're more alike than you care to admit."

"No, we're not!"

Menelaus rolled his eyes. "Oh, that's right. You've changed. Now, everything you do is out of love for Xena, your little warrior princess. Instead of commanding legions, you're scribbling on papyrus, looking to redeem yourself in her eyes." He lifted a grayed brow and the candle's light flooded his eyes. "Tell me, are you really having more fun these days?"

The words--those words--they seemed to echo back to a day long since past and Ares unwillingly took a step back as if he had been kicked in the gut.

He turned away from Menelaus and moved to stand in front the dresser, briefly sparing a glance at himself in the mirror that loomed above it, before immersing his hands in the marble basin. Ares watched the water grow dark as the ink washed away. Though the lighting was dim, he could see with perfect clarity.

Again, he paused, confused. The water rolled along his fingers and as each drop fell back into the basin, the sound painfully resonated. Ares blinked, finding that he felt somewhat dizzy, and steadied himself against the dresser.

"Don't you dare to presume that you know anything about me," he spat between his teeth.

"Don't I?"

Ares forcefully turned around, ready to tear the old man apart with his bare hands, but upon doing so, was frozen in shock.  There, standing in the flickering shadows, he came face to face with his former self.

"Y'know, it's apparent why you didn't like Menelaus, but apart from the Helen business," his counterpart started, almost comically, as he deliberately paced about the room, "I think you really didn't like him because he reminded you of--well, you." He stopped and sinisterly grinned. "Or, more specifically, me."

"No-"

"Now, now, don't get all upset. Maybe the old man had a point. Just like you, he didn't mind letting his home go to waste for a woman."

"It's not the same--he did it out of-"

"Obsession? Want? Perhaps. Again, something you are not unfamiliar with. So, is it really that far fetched to draw the parallel between you--us? But you know, while you defeated the old man," he paused and the smile on his face grew wider, "I'm still here."

"No-"

Ares jolted up. Perspiration dotted his brow and his nostrils flickered wildly. Disoriented, he felt around the sweat soaked sheets of the bed, assessing his surroundings.  He sat amongst no light, save for the thin beams set off by the moon which spilled through the window. The candle had long since burned down to its base.

He gulped back, trying to loosen the tightness of his throat, as he drew his knees up and placed his elbows atop them. For a moment, he sat there quite dismayed before the humble beginnings of a smile began to pull at his lips. There was no reason to feel worry or doubt.

Nothing had happened.

It had just been his exhausted mind playing tricks on him while his guard was down. No, there was nothing to get worked up over. Everything was fine--he could even make out the fine edges of the documents he had been working on in the pale moonlight.

Again, nothing had happened.

Ares began to feel laughter brew in his chest, mocking his own insecurity. He shook his head and went to thread his hands through his hair. As they rose within an inch of his eyes, he suddenly stopped, for that feeling of ease which had began to settle in, fled.

Not a spot of ink marked them.

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

Across the waters, Xena and Gabrielle were holding a meeting with one of Japa's finest generals and Kenji. They were in an a sparsely furnished war tent. Candles, each burned down to different lengths, offered the only source of light. Their warm glow filled the space and scented herbs burned, emitting the smell of exotic spice.

At the center of the tent was a small table, barely a foot off the ground. A pot of green tea, small cups, and bowls of rice were atop it. The gathered group were all poised on their knees, sitting upon their bare feet. Gabrielle, who was wearing a beautifully embroidered, blue, silk pant suit, took a sip of her drink. Although she sat before the table, her friend deliberated with the two men a few feet away.

A map was rolled out on the floor and the three warriors took to discussing stratagem.

"What you want to do is bring your men here," she pointed, "and here, General Mao. The smaller group will go in first, distract them. That's all they need to do, because if they can draw them into this valley here, at the base of Mt. Fujisan, all that would be necessary is a second contingent to attack from behind. The enemy army would be completely vulnerable."   

He was an elder man with graying black hair. Wrinkles traversed his face, yet, while he wasn't imposing in look or stature, he seemed to exude an sense of nobleness. He was dressed in armor, whereas Kenji wore the same attire he had first approached Xena in. Both men regarded the map intently as she drew her hand along it.

The Warrior Princess, out of respect, was wearing a battle dress and armor of Japa tradition. She felt somewhat less guarded, for it was sparsely plated, but the benefit was better agility. Not to mention, she looked smashing in it. Xena had even mused about wearing it back home so Ares could see. She knew he would get a kick out of it and then get her out of it--literally.

First, the situation in Japa had to be resolved, and just getting the plans to coalesce was a battle in and of itself. Even now, Kenji was questioning the strategy she had gone over with them.

"Would it not be more efficacious if we reserved all of our men and found some other sort of distraction ," he asked. "And if you can not find one suitable, then to lead the first group of men yourself? It is your plan, after all, and it is the highest priority, apart from the mission itself, to keep General Mao out of harm's way."

Kenji had been pushing for Xena to lead the front line for a week now. She guessed he did so for dual purposes. Normally, she would find nothing wrong in taking this post up, but the men saw her as a shadow. For her to lead them into the melee, she required their trust. Seeing as though there was little time to acquaint herself with them, she found it an impossible request to ask, especially considering that they knew of her past.

"It would be, Kenji," she replied, "if your men would follow my orders without question. Unfortunately, I don't think they are willing to do that. But," she looked at Mao, "your skills are needed and I don't want you on the front line either."

"I find your reluctance a bit contradictory to tales of your brave heroism, Xena." The challenge in the younger man's voice did not go unnoticed.

Mao rubbed a hand against his face and stared on at the map. "What she says is true, Kenji. Our people are restless, knowing it is she who has shamed them, that is now their only chance of rescue."

Xena turned away, feeling her eyes sting. This man pulled no punches.

She looked to Gabrielle, who set her tea cup down, and tilted her head. 

"Perhaps you should read of what she's done since then. This is not the Xena your people knew," the bard firmly stated. "I don't think it's fair to talk to her like this when she's come-"

"Gabrielle," Xena interrupted, raising a hand to silence her, "he's right." She looked at Mao. Again, there was a nobleness about him and she couldn't deny the truth of his words. "I do not blame your people for their distrust."

"Your efforts to help us are doing much to reinforce the tales of your good deeds."

"Your men look up to you, tell me--if you were to order them to follow me without question, would they do it?"

Mao nodded. "Yes. An order from a commanding officer always takes precedence."

Gabrielle got up from the table and came to sit beside her friend. She knelt down and placed a hand atop her shoulder. "Xena, are you-"

"Someone has to lead them in. Without a leader it would be easy to balk, no matter how brave the man," she answered somberly. "I think it's time for you to brief your army on the situation, General Mao. I will meet you there shortly. Perhaps, if you talk with them first, you can make them see that we're fighting for the same goal--freedom."

Mao bowed his head and rose to stand. The embossed armor he wore rattled noisily as he did so. "Soon, we will attack and Edo will be freed." He turned to Kenji. "Come," he ordered, extending his chin in the direction of the tent's exit.

The younger man tipped his head before rolling up the map and standing. "Xena," he started, looking down at her, "it is not that I want you in harm's way. It is that this is the only way. May your mission be successful." He bowed, somewhat shakily.

Xena's lips drew taut and she seemed to nod to herself before issuing the words, "Thank you," just as uncomfortably.

Both Kenji and Mao made their departure and now alone, Gabrielle got up off her feet.

"Xena, what are you doing?"

"I'm doing what must be done," she answered, quietly, still sitting upon the floor. "I'll be fine. You're the one who's always saying there's nothing to worry about."

"Well, this time there is," the bard ground out, turning around. "I can't let you do this."

"You don't have a choice." Xena got up and placed a hand on Gabrielle's shoulder. "Really, it's not as bad as it seems," she lied.

"It's not," Gabrielle asked hopefully, turning to face her.

The Warrior Princess forced a smile. "No, it's not. You seem to think I'm worried about my own safety. I'm just worried about Mao's men, that's all."

"Well, either way, I'll be there by your side."

Xena winced. That was not going to happen, no matter how determined Gabrielle was. She could look out for herself, but in a situation like this, worrying about the bard's whereabouts on top of everything else would be detrimental.

"I need you somewhere else."

"No, Xena, I'm coming with you."

"And you would let these people down just to keep an eye on me? Listen, I can't worry about Mao's men and you at the same time. Not when you must carry out the most important task--helping him to lead the second contingent."

The bard lowered her head. Xena was right. Her stubbornness in trying to protect her friend accomplished the exact opposite in the past. Regardless, she despised the idea of not taking to the front with her. Then again, she was being asked to assist in taking command. That Xena would trust her with such an important post, somewhat eased Gabrielle's mind. Surely, if she was willing to let her take on such a task, Xena had a back-up plan to fix things if they went awry.

"I'm going to go see how the briefing is panning out now."

Gabrielle wrapped her hands around Xena's gauntlets, impeding her departure. "Promise me, you'll be alright," she pleaded. "Promise me that I won't be the one to take that pouch back to Ares because you'll be doing it yourself-"

Xena's eyes were downcast. "I can't make any promises, Gabrielle. But, let me put it this way, I don't want you to be the one to take it to him either. It's something I want to do myself," she now looked the bard square in the eye, "and frankly, if I must take on that entire army myself to do it, well---they just better watch out."

The bard laughed half-heartedly. "For the both of us," she concluded, running a hand under a glossy eye.

"Be strong. I'm not scared and you shouldn't shake from fear either." Xena smirked and stood tall. "Besides, how are you going to write this all down when you can't hold your quill steady?" She gently punched Gabrielle in the arm. "Remember, you're my biographer. I'm counting on you."

Xena smiled and slowly backed away to exit the tent.

The meek smile that was on Gabrielle's face just a second ago, now twisted as she replied, "and I'm counting on you. After it's all over, we will meet at the side of Mt. Fujisan." 

One hand pushing open the tent, Xena stopped and confirmed, "I'll see you there."

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

More time had past, bringing Ares little comfort. The former Olympian's mind was continually flooded with a disarray of thoughts, doubts and the like, but he resigned himself to ignore them. He guessed they were so intense due to the fact that he was not used to the inner workings of a mortal mind--at least not entirely.

Instead, he attempted to focus on things that brought a sense of accomplishment. Sparta seemed to flourish during his time there. Their laws, domestic and trade-wise, were doing tremendously well in establishing a working government.

Taris and Nikolaus, as always, were never short of thanks for all of his efforts, but what really made him feel content was seeing the actual result of his hard work. Not only that, but the Spartan people seemed to regard him as a great man. He had won their respect, not through fear, but through kindness...something that caused a most peculiar feeling to brew within--something he liked, though, he couldn't put a name to it.

Anyway, it did wonders to diffuse the thoughts that always rumbled through his head. Something else that managed to push them down, was training Cassia some defense routines.  Ares was pleased to find that she was a quick study. He had taught her a few basics the week before during their first session. Today was lesson two.

They worked on the grassy plain just south of Sparta's wall. It was a nice day by all accounts. The sun was burning bright. Clouds, dense and white, billowed magnificently in the sky. There was even a nice, calming breeze which seeped between the leaves of nearby trees, causing them to twitter. Birds caught flight on the currents, their songs trailing behind them.

Yes, these were all the makings for a beautiful day...but even days such as these can turn dark--even before the sun has a chance to set.

Little did either know that, as they practiced, a war was about to rage in Japa, but not as it was planned.

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

Xena had taken to the front line, Gabrielle to the second contingent with Mao. The rain, which had been falling for the past two days, had finally stopped. Each group went off toward their pre-determined locations, trudging through the muddied ground. Before either troop had gotten even close to their posts, Xena decided to take one of the soldiers with her to scout ahead.

The stood on the edge of the valley, shrouded by a dense line of evergreen, as well as cherry trees. Their blossoms varied in color, from pink to white, and emitted a sweet scent that greatly contrasted the sight before them.

Thousands of men were piling their way through the grassy field beyond. Some where on horseback, others on foot. Banners, designating their rank, were held high in the sky by the soldiers carrying them. Whereas Xena and the scout stood by in silence, these men seemed fearless. They were loud, rowdy, and often times laughed at the prospect of sacking yet another Japa city.

"What are we to do," the scout whispered close to her ear.

Xena's eyes never left the sight before her and if he could see her face, he wouldn't be able to ignore the growing look of dread exuded from it. Her contingent would have to join Mao's troops. It was the only way they stood a chance--the only way Edo would be secured-- the only way she could put her past here behind her, and time was of the essence.

"Go with the others and take up post with Mao on Mt. Fujisan."

"I don't-"

She quietly backed out of the foliage and turned around. "Listen, we are way outnumbered. The only way to ensure Edo's safety is if the two contingents work together."

"But for the plan to work, their troops must be lured into the valley--that was our job--how will this happen if we are not there to make this happen?"

The man was right. There had to be another distraction and, with no other option, Xena decided that distraction would be her.

"Don't worry. I'll take care of it."

"But you are one woman!"

Though the situation really offered no based reason to do so, she smiled and simply replied, "Yes, but I have many skills."

All this response served to do was perplex the scout all the more. He shakily reached for her arm in an attempt to persuade her to go with him, but Xena shrugged him off before he even grazed her skin.

"Your skills may be great, but you can not take on an entire army! I know you are no stranger to war, but I urge you, find another way."

She looked down at her chakram. Even under the dense canopy of trees, it still seemed to glow at her side. Xena traced its edge with her fingers and licked her lips, remembering the unease she felt that day in Sparta months ago--the day she left for Japa. Even though she had left Ares' ways years ago, there was always a sense of companionship when on a battlefield, though she couldn't exactly explain how.  That morning in the barn, what she had often times suspected, Ares unknowingly confirmed.

"Just be careful, ok? I can't look in on you anymore to rescue your butt."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Well, Xena...let's just say there were times that I didn't just sit back and watch." 

"Xena," the scout asked, feeling the silence had gone on for too long. She didn't respond, but instead, remained looking down at the weapon clasped to her side as though entranced by it. Again, he beckoned her attention. "Xena!"

Inch by inch, her eyes rose and when she regarded the man standing beside her, she squared her shoulders. If the enemy army was going to be drawn into the chosen location, it had to be done now.

"There isn't time to debate this. You can not ignore the command of a superior, now go and do what I told you."

The soldier conceded and bowed his head. "As you ordered," he reluctantly replied before slowly trudging through the muddy grass to carry out the command and alert her troops to their new assignment.

Xena turned back around to look upon the enemy army beyond the line of trees. Her heart sped and though she tried to temper its beat by steadying herself against the trunk of a cherry tree, it would not cease its rampant throb.

Willing herself to stand tall despite it, she unclasped her chakram and raised it to her face. Xena took in her wary reflection before closing her eyes to the sight of it. This was not the time for fear.

The scout was right, she was no stranger to war.

Xena brought the chakram to her lips to place a kiss upon the crest and whispered, "I still feel you."

Next Page