After “Something New, Something Old,” Gabrielle and Xena reconsider their notion of semi-retirement, given the succession of adventures that began interrupting their attempts to celebrate 25 years together in “Fifty Winters Ago.” For Gwen/Widget.
June 2009
The
wagon proceeded at a leisurely pace, slow enough for the gang of four to easily
overtake it. One of the riders threw a
heavy sack in front of the team, forcing the driver to pull up.
“Okay,
folks. Time for a rest stop. Heh, and we’ll take the rest of your
belongin’s, while you’re at it.”
“No.”
“No? Whaddya mean, ‘no.’”
“No. As in … ‘no.’”
The
gang’s spokesman gaped at the wagon’s occupants, who appeared completely
unconcerned about their predicament.
“Listen, just `cause you’re a couple ol’ biddies, doesn’t mean we won’t
get rough if we have ta.”
“Old
biddies?!” The larger of the women
turned to her companion. “Did he just
call us old biddies?”
“Uh
huh. Sounded like it.” The smaller woman addressed the
spokesman. “Excuse me, but did you in
fact call us old biddies?”
The
men exchanged glances. This was
supposed to be an easy heist – not the prelude to a conversation about
age. “We’re robbin’ ya, you fools. What difference is it if –.”
“Oh,
it makes a difference.” The smaller
woman smirked. “To her anyway. Personally, I don’t get all hot and bothered
by –.”
“Shut
up! You wanna be stubborn about this,
we’ll just take what we want.”
The
spokesman dismounted and indicated for one of his colleagues to do the
same. The taller woman stood. Something about her made the men hesitate.
“Whaddya
think you’re doin’?”
“What’s
it look like I’m doing?”
The
spokesman rested a hand on his sword hilt.
“Tryin’ to get yourself killed instead of robbed.”
“Mm. Maybe so.
If we’re just ‘a couple old biddies.’
On the other hand ….” The woman
reached through a slit in her tunic and pulled out a metal disk. “Looks can be deceiving. Take this,” she said, holding up the
disk. “Could be a new-fangled frame for
embroidering. Or ….” She sliced a line through the top of the
wagon seat. “Maybe not.”
The
men frowned at the disk. They weren’t
quite sure what to make of it. The
woman’s eyes, however, were quite clear.
Not those of an old biddy, but of the last person any sane thief would
choose to victimize. And these men
definitely weren’t crazy.
“Okay,
boys. Seems we made a mistake.” The spokesman manufactured a sneer. “They’d be more scared, if they had anything
worth losin’.” He mounted, his
colleague following suit. “No sense
gettin’ a few scratches over nothin’.”
The
smaller woman stood. “Very sensible
decision.” She gave the men a maternal
smile. “You see, knowing the difference
is important. Between right and
wrong. Profit or loss.” She tousled the taller woman’s silvered
bangs. “An ‘old biddy,’ versus an elder
who fancies herself in the mold of a legendary Warrior Princess.”
The
men snickered. “Oh, that’s her
problem,” surmised the spokesman, preparing to ride off. “Could be dangerous. I’d keep `er in the house, if I was
you. Not everybody’s as understanding
as us. Ya got lucky.”
“Yes,
someone got lucky all right,” the shorter woman stated at the taller one’s low
growl. “Perhaps you should go? Before someone’s luck runs out?”
The
women watched the gang ride off.
“Nicely
played.”
“Toldya
I’ve gotten more patient with maturity.”
“But
no less competitive.”
“Excuse
me?”
“As
if you’ve forgotten.”
“The
bet? Don’t see how this qualified. Hmmm.
Maybe for extra credit. Yeah, I
wouldn’t mind a little of that. And I
know just how I wanna cash in.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Brightly
colored streamers fluttered in the wind, beckoning shoppers to part with their
coins as lavishly as the sun bestowed its blessing on the day. Children dodged between legs and
stalls. Adults inspected merchandise
and haggled with vendors. Two women
strolled through the scene as though they hadn’t a care in the world – no need
to worry about vegetables or cloth or utensils.
“Uh
oh.”
“What?”
“That
matron. Over there. She’s holding up two fingers. The merchant’s holding up three.”
“Humph. That pot’s only worth one.”
“She
seems flustered. A little
desperate. Probably not much left in
her money pouch.”
“Mmhm.”
“Think
she’s about to give in. Shame if she
gets the short end of the stick.”
“Uh
huh.”
“Too
bad she doesn’t have somebody with her.
You know, somebody good at bargaining?”
“Uh
huh. Oh, look! Have you ever seen such an exquisite vase? Come on.
Let’s check it out.”
A
couple of hours later, the women relaxed in the dining area of the local inn,
enjoying its coolness and apple pie.
“Uh
oh.”
“Hm?”
“Big
guy in black? With the sword? He just made a pass at that young redhead.”
“Mm.”
“I
think she’s with another man. Guy at
the front table? Dressed like a
farmer?”
“Mmhm.”
“Ooo,
the farmer’s getting up. I hope he
doesn’t …. Gods, he’s a twig, compared
to the warrior type. Oh, boy, they’re
facing off. Maybe if somebody steps in
–.”
The
sound of grunts and objects crashing to the floor sent patrons scattering.
“Ouch. Big guy landed quite a blow. The farmer’s no match. Not by himself. If only he had some help.”
“Mmmm. This is really good. You gonna eat that last piece? Helloooo.
I say, you gonna …. Never
mind. I’ll take it off your hands. Wouldn’t be as good cold anyway.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Having
decided to take a room for the night, the two women prepared to turn in.
“I
have to admit, you’re doing better than I expected.”
“Ditto.”
“The
hard part is getting that poor woman’s face out of my mind. I’m sure I could’ve saved her a couple
dinars.”
“Yeah,
I was itchin’ to take out that thug.”
“I
can’t remember the last time you let a bully get away with pounding somebody.”
“Mm. I meant the one tried to rob us. But yeah, hard to forget the redhead
screaming at all that blood. The
farmer’ll be okay physically. Not sure
about the beating his pride took.”
“Funny,
but if anybody’d told me about all this, I wouldn’t have believed it was really
us.”
“Heh. Could’ve been any two ‘old biddies,’ eh?”
“Well,
except the part where one of them practically dares a gang of thieves to
attack.”
“Hey,
I didn’t touch `em. Besides, we hadn’t
discussed the rules in the event our personal safety was involved. Shouldn’t disqualify my extra credit.”
The
two slipped under the covers.
“Xena?”
“I
think so.”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “You smell like her, if
that’s any consolation.”
“Before
or after I work up a sweat?”
“Before.”
“I
can go with that.” Xena snuggled
closer. “Now, about that extra credit
….”
“I’m
having second thoughts.”
“S’okay. My first thought is enough for both of us.”
Gabrielle
swatted Xena’s arm. “I’m talking about
our bet. Keeping it isn’t as satisfying
as I’d hoped.”
Xena
snorted. “Figured I had you in the
market. A shopper in jeopardy? A pitiful one at that? No way I thought you’d resist jumping in.”
“I’m
not talking about winning, Xena. I mean
the whole idea. Now I’m hypersensitive
to the smallest injustice. Not doing
anything …. It’s like every fiber of my
being is on edge, but tied in knots.”
Sighing,
Xena flopped on her back. “We’re
supposed to be semi-retired. Our 25th
anniversary so-called ‘celebration’ turned into a reprisal of our most active
early years. We’ve been on the road
nearly six months. Most of it spent
butting into others’ affairs. Butt
kicking on the rare occasions biddy wit didn’t work. You’re the one said we should take a break.”
“I
know.” Gabrielle was silent a
moment. “I guess I take what we do for
granted. Helping out when we can. It reminded me what a difference it
makes. Not just the big things like
stopping a war. The little things that
make life better for an ordinary person.”
“Gabrielle,
people get cheated or beat up every day.
Sure, you might’ve saved that woman some money. The vendor would’ve made it up on his next
customer. I jump to the farmer’s aid,
but what about fights before I got there or after? There’s probably all sorts of stuff happening at home. Will everything fall apart `cause we’re not
involved? Nope. Folks muddle through. Somebody else steps up.”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “All your talk about
bloodlust in your veins. I figured
you’d be the first to crack. Stupid
challenge. When will I ever learn.”
Xena
rolled to her side. “It wasn’t
stupid. We deserve time to appreciate
how long we’ve been together. Somehow
we end up distracted by something else.
Somebody else’s life. So we’re
forcing ourselves to stay focused. If
it works, even for a little while, we can have more of that romance you
want.”
“Mm. Starting with your ‘extra credit,’ no
doubt.”
“Ah.” Xena tweaked Gabrielle’s nose. “From your lips to mine.”
˜˜˜˜˜
The
wagon rounded the bend. A horse stood
at the side of the road, a figure kneeling in front.
“Oh,
it’s a woman!”
“Mmhm.”
“Slow
down, Xena. Maybe she needs help.”
Xena
rolled her tongue in her cheek. “You
realize what this means.”
Gabrielle
arched a brow. “I realize what it could
mean.”
“Besides
I win?” Xena narrowed her eyes. “What else is there?”
“Extra
credit? No reason for that any more, if
the challenge is over, hmmm?”
Lips
pursed, Xena pulled up beside the woman.
“Morning. Problem?”
The
woman turned around. She was the
redhead from the inn. The hair spilling
down her face didn’t quite hide a bruised cheek. “I’m afraid so. My
horse.”
Gabrielle
made herself focus on the horse.
“Perhaps we could help?” She
smiled. “We just happen to have an
expert on hand.”
“Um,
sure.” The woman looked at Xena. “If it’s not too much trouble?”
Xena
snorted softly. She handed the reins to
Gabrielle and stepped down. “Bad hoof,”
she said after her examination. “I can
do a temporary fix. Relieve some of his
pain. But you’ll need a blacksmith.”
“Will
I be able to ride him? When you’re
done?”
“He
probably can’t take the extra weight.
Shouldn’t be a problem walking on his own though.” Xena patted the horse’s lame leg and turned
toward the wagon with the hint of a smirk.
“Um,
Xena?”
“Yesss?”
Gabrielle
forced a smile to cover her gritted teeth.
“Should we hitch the horse to the back?
Or let him walk alongside.”
“Oh,
that’s very kind of you,” the woman said, “but I can --.”
“No,
we insist.” Gabrielle slid to the
middle of the bench and indicated for the woman to join her.
“Absolutely.” Xena dutifully led the horse to the back of
the wagon, but not before flashing Gabrielle a victory sign.
˜˜˜˜˜
The
redhead introduced herself as Moira.
Asked where she was headed, she replied, “Nowhere in particular. Just away from here.” Some gentle prodding from Gabrielle revealed
Moira hoped to escape “a bad situation.”
“Man
trouble?” Gabrielle asked, finally looking pointedly at Moira’s bruised
cheek. “That farmer you were with?”
Moira
covered the side of her face. “Um,
no. He’s my brother. Stanos.
When I find a safe place, he’ll join me.”
“A
safe place?” Gabrielle laid a hand on
Moira’s arm. “From that warrior? The one who beat Stanos?”
“Not
just him.” Moira’s head dropped. “They’ve made Alleteon their home base. They leave for a while to do their dirty
work. They come back, get drunk,
intimidate folks. Demand free food and
lodging. Take … liberties.” She raised her chin. “Not everyone goes along. At least, not my brother and me.”
They
rode along in silence. Gabrielle
figured she’d already said enough. She
could justify helping some poor soul stranded by the road. Offering to do more might warrant
accusations she’d broken the pact so foolishly proposed precisely to avoid
entanglement in strangers’ problems.
Xena had expressed little beyond superficial politeness. No doubt would dump Moira at the first
chance. Was that so wrong? Hadn’t they already done enough? What any decent person would for a traveler
in need? Helped distance Moira a little
from her situation?
“Farmland
and huts ahead,” Xena announced.
“Probably means a village not too far.”
She smiled at Moira. “Maybe even
a blacksmith.”
“And
weapons,” Moira murmured.
“What’s
that?”
“Um
… nothing. A blacksmith would be good.”
Xena
studied the redhead a moment. She noted
Gabrielle had leaned forward, her expression suggesting she’d heard the same
thing. The warrior shrugged. “Cold drink’d be good too. Anybody else thirsty?”
“Hungry’s
more like it.” Head cocked, Gabrielle
added, “Something we don’t have to cook?”
“Works
for me.”
Gabrielle
started to invite Moira, but her gut warned to leave well enough alone. Whatever happened next would be Xena’s call.
˜˜˜˜˜
“What
can I get for you?”
Gabrielle
wasn’t sure how to answer the serving girl.
Xena had gone with Moira to the blacksmith. Gabrielle assumed both would join her at the inn. Although, given Xena’s fondness for picking
up strangers, Moira might end up spending the night with her horse. Especially given their competition to see
which of them would be the first to capitulate to do-gooding. On the other hand, Moira had mentioned
weapons – always music to certain warrior ears. The question was, would that be Siren’s Song enough to beat out
“na na na na na, I win.”
“Let’s
start with a platter of cheese, bread and fruit.” Gabrielle smiled smugly.
“Enough for three.” She snorted
to herself awhile later when she saw she’d guessed right.
“Hey.”
“Hi
there,” Gabrielle greeted her partner as she and Moira seated themselves. “Get everything taken care of?”
“Pretty
much.” Xena helped herself to slices of
food from Gabrielle’s plate. “Horse
should be good as new in the morning.”
Gabrielle
tapped the food platter. “This cheese
is excellent,” she said to Moira, who sat with her hands in her lap. “You must be hungry.”
“A
little.” Moira sampled the cheese. “Mmm.
This is good.”
“Just
the appetizer. I’m told we’d like the
mutton too.” Gabrielle turned to
Xena. “You say the horse’ll be ready in
the morning?” she asked casually.
Xena
sucked in her cheeks. “That’s what I
said. In the morning.” She raised a “your move” brow.
“Ah. That’s what I thought you said.” Gabrielle broke off some bread, eyes
twinkling a silent, “What else ya got, Warrior Princess?”
Moira
glanced between the two. Their words
seemed simple enough, but she was pretty sure she hadn’t caught on to
everything being communicated. “Um, it
probably would’ve taken a lot longer, if not for Xena. There were quite a few jobs ahead of mine. I stepped out to get some water. When I came back ….” She grinned and shrugged. “The blacksmith said he’d make my horse a
priority.”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “Happens a lot with
Xena.” She snorted. “Must be her winning personality.”
This
time Moira got the humor. Smiling, she
said, “Whatever, I can’t thank her enough.
Both of you. At least now I can
…. I can ….” She sighed. “Well, I can
keep moving.”
“Have
you decided where?” Gabrielle asked.
“We’ll
decide in the morning.”
Gabrielle
and Moira cocked their heads at Xena, as if trying to confirm they’d heard
right.
“Um
… we … will?”
“Mmhm.” Xena plucked grapes from the platter and
popped a couple in her mouth. “Moira’s
gotta wait for her horse. No place
special we have to be right now. Might
as well stay here tonight.” She ate
another grape. “Decide where to go from
there in the morning. Anybody got a
problem with that?”
Gabrielle
and Moira exchanged wide-eyed glances.
“No? Okay then.
I’m ready for that mutton.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Generally
speaking, Gabrielle felt comfortable with her mature self. She’d long ago vanquished doubts about her
ability to survive – even triumph – in the often violent world outside
Poteidaia. To traverse the winding,
bumpy road required of Xena’s quest to atone for her past. Though now a half-century after they’d met,
they looked and felt 25 years younger, thanks to the time they’d spent frozen
in Ares’ ice cave. They’d become
legendary, but many assumed them dead.
This afforded them the luxury of settling down in the Village of Dreams
she’d established after Xena’s ultimate sacrifice in Japa, as well as the
option to continue defending the “greater good” when they chose. Or, more accurately, when it dropped in
their laps. As it did pretty much like
in the old days.
Xena,
of course, still liked a good fight.
Still liked getting out and about.
Had adjusted well to traveling by wagon for “practical” reasons – the
reduced stress on aging body parts an understood, if seldom acknowledged,
bonus. Indeed, she’d mellowed in many
ways – more patience with nonviolent solutions, more acceptance of the rewards
of a life devoted more to doing the right thing because she felt like it, than
because she had to. Oh, she hadn’t
entirely lost her evil streak.
Certainly not when it came to getting on Gabrielle’s last nerve. Like now.
They’d
retired to their room. Nothing in
dinner’s superficial conversation had revealed what on earth Xena had in mind
with her cryptic comments about tomorrow.
She now prepared for bed as usual.
As usual insufferably tight-lipped when she knew Gabrielle wanted
answers. It was at moments like this
Gabrielle wished she too had changed more.
Especially her unquenchable curiosity.
Once again it would probably mean she’d have to make the first move. And endure that insufferable gloating
regardless whether Xena had truly won.
Gabrielle
went about her business feigning the same casualness as Xena. “You do realize I’m being gracious,” she
finally said.
“Hmmm?”
“I
could be like some other people.”
Gabrielle cut her eyes at Xena, who sat blithely brushing her hair. “Prance around chortling, ‘I win, I win.’”
“Uh
huh.”
“We
both know ….” Gabrielle stared at the
back of her partner’s head. “What?”
“You
win.”
Gabrielle
dropped down on the bed. “What do you
mean, I win?”
“I
caved first. No use denying it.”
Gabrielle
frowned. Xena never gave in this
easily. Unless it was a trick. “You helped her with her horse. Invited her to dinner. Common courtesy, really. Sure, if the shoe was on the other foot, you
might consider that losing, but I wouldn’t ….” She caught herself too late.
“Gods,” she said, knocking herself in the head. “When will I ever learn.” She snorted. “I could say it’s `cause I feel sorry for you. You being so competitive and all. Attempting to go easy on that ego of
yours. If only my sense of ethics –.”
“It’s
not what I’ve done.” Xena turned
around, smiling, but not with the usual glee of victory. “It’s what I’m gonna do.” She joined Gabrielle on the bed. “I wanna pull one of your numbers. Let her travel with us awhile.”
Gabrielle
digested this news. “What brought this
on?” she asked, reaching up to check Xena’s forehead for signs of fever.
Chuckling, Xena grasped Gabrielle’s hand. “The situation she talked about? Back in Alleteon?”
“Uh
huh.”
“She
told me a little more at the blacksmith’s.
It’s bad. Moira and her brother
can’t stop those goons alone. I know. I’ve been there.”
“Mm. And you know what it can take to … ‘fix’ …
things. That she could end up just as
bad.”
“Yes. But if I help her …. Teach her how to do it better, maybe she can
get her home back.” Xena squeezed
Gabrielle’s hand. “And not end up like
me.”
Gabrielle
studied her partner a moment. She
couldn’t remember seeing quite the same look – passionate, but also …
innocent. As if Xena’d dropped the
weight of so many years. Maybe returned
to the rebellious village girl before she’d lost her way.
“Yeah,
I hear ya,” Xena guessed. “Another trip
to the past, huh? They say it’s always with
us. But maybe with a better outcome
this time? At least for Moira?” She scooted back on the bed and leaned
forward. “I can’t explain it, but I
feel drawn to her. To this … crossroads
… in her life. Who better to guide her? Keep her from making the same mistakes? Not out of guilt or anything. Because … for some reason … I … want to.”
Gabrielle
wasn’t sure why she’d have any reservations.
Certainly not because of their pledge to spend this time together. The eagerness on Xena’s face alone made her
desire worthwhile. And perhaps more
vulnerable? To possible
disappointment? To success that
underscored her own lost opportunities?
But wasn’t that too an important thread in the fabric of what they’d
made together? Facing challenges,
taking risks and discovering strength they wouldn’t have otherwise?
“I
think it’s a great idea,” Gabrielle responded, cupping Xena’s face. “Win or lose, I’m with you for whatever
tomorrow brings.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Moira
expressed surprised gratitude at breakfast, when informed she’d be welcome to
travel with the women who’d befriended her.
She also acknowledged doubts.
“As
much as I’d love your company, I can’t ask you to put yourselves in danger for
what I have to do.” Moira admitted she
intended to buy weapons before heading out to meet up with other potential
rebels. “We don’t have experience or a
plan yet. Just commitment to try
anything until it works.”
“Moira,
have you ever heard tales of Xena the Warrior Princess?”
“Oh,
yes. That’s partly what inspired me.” Moira frowned in puzzlement at the other
women’s silence, at the smiles apparently supposed to communicate something
important. “Xena? Surely you’re not implying ….” She stared at the woman across from
her. “She died before I was born. At least, that’s what ….” She stared at Gabrielle. “Even if not true, they’d be ….”
“Hunched
over canes, gumming cheese?” Gabrielle
grinned. “We’ll explain our miraculous
appearance later. For now, I assure you
it’s us. Longer in the tooth and wider
of hips, but still the real deal.”
Moira
sagged against the back of her chair, mouth open. “That … that changes everything!”
Gabrielle
put her arm around Xena’s shoulder. “We
certainly hope so.”
After
tying Moira’s horse to the back of the wagon, they set out for the forest where
Moira planned to meet her fellow conspirators, a day or so ride away. Stanos would join them, hopefully with more
recruits. Gabrielle contentedly darned
tears in her extra britches, listening as Xena grilled Moira about her home
village, the warlord’s possible strength and routine. The girl hung on every word, eager to connect each question to
Xena’s thought process for devising a strategy.
“The
main thing,” Xena advised when they stopped for a lunch break, “is what’s up
here,” she said, tapping her head. “If
you’re gonna be a decent leader.”
“Leader?” Moira nearly dropped the apple she was
eating. “Most of our recruits are
male. Most at least used to … casual …
fighting. Why would you think – .”
“Like
I said, brain counts more than brawn.
The ability to observe, take in information, be creative. Not let ego or reliance on physical prowess
get in the way of good sense.” Xena
cocked her head. “Whose idea was this –
to fight back?”
“Um,
mine.”
“Who
went around identifying others?” Xena
smirked. “As opposed to challenging
them to a duel first?”
Moira
ducked her head. “Mostly me.”
“Who
decided you weren’t ready yet to make your move? That you needed to get proper arms and training?”
Moira
shook her head. “Okay, I see where
you’re going. You know how guys
are. It’s hard enough getting their
respect in the romance department. Have
you any idea how hard it would be ….”
She noticed bemused expressions.
She bit her lip. “Oh. Sorry.
Silly question. I forget ….”
“No
problem. By the time I’m finished with
ya, they won’t know what hit `em.” Xena
smirked. “Besides, there are
advantages. Gives you a certain
mystique, them not always knowing where you’re comin’ from. If you’re successful, they’ll call it
‘women’s intuition.’ You can get in
their face, scare `em with crazy talk.
‘Must be her time of the month.
Better give her space.’ When it
gets tense ….” She chuckled. “Amazing what a well-timed eye bat can do.”
Moira
laughed. “And here I’ve been playing down
my looks, for fear of pats on the butt.”
“Well,
it’s not all easy. I’ll give you
that. We’ll work on your fighting
skills too. I know some techniques
especially designed for smaller folks.
They see you take down the biggest guy with a couple jabs from your
fingers, they’ll be sufficiently impressed.”
“I’d
heard you could do that. This is better
than …. I can hardly wait.”
Gabrielle
looked up from tearing off a piece of bread.
“You’d heard she could do that?”
Moira
searched Gabrielle’s face. “Sorry?”
“You
said ‘you.’ For a moment I thought you
meant ….” She glanced at her partner.
“Oh,
you mean ….” Moira covered her
mouth. “Oops. Well, I suppose I did. I
mean, despite age and all …. Um, now
that I know ….” She chuckled
girlishly. “But I was talking about the
… other … Xena. The one of legends.”
Xena
raised a brow at Gabrielle.
“S’okay. She gets `em confused
sometimes. When you’ve been together
this long, you tend not to notice time’s added some gray and wrinkles.”
“Thanks
for the reminder.” Gabrielle scowled at
Xena. To Moira she said, “Don’t mind
me. Like she says, I’m prone to
confusion. Unfortunately, a product of
too much curiosity and an over-active imagination.” She smiled. “Same as the
Gabrielle of legend.”
“Thank
the gods.” Moira sliced a piece of
cheese and handed it to Gabrielle.
“Your stories portrayed a Warrior Princess we might not have known
otherwise. Stumbling into the
flesh-and-blood Xena and Gabrielle?
Traveling with, learning from them?
I gotta be the luckiest girl in the world.”
“Mm.” Gabrielle smiled benignly. “Given your quest, maybe it’s more than
luck?”
“You
mean, like fate?” Moira considered
this. “Hmm. Wouldn’t that be neat.”
˜˜˜˜˜
“Care
to explain what that was about?” Xena asked when Moira made a trip to the
bushes.
“Hmm?”
“That
little exchange about me and my legend.”
“Pfft. Just me being … me.”
“Yeah,
yeah. I didn’t just pick you out of a
cabbage patch, ya know.”
“Fine. Something in her voice …. It’s like she knew you. I mean, more than a stranger.”
“What’s
new about that? Wouldn’t be the first
time we met somebody and it was like we’d been friends for years.”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “True. We do have that effect.”
Xena
snorted. “Although usually it’s
you. Tara was an aberration.”
“Oh,
don’t give me that. What about … um
….” Gabrielle searched through decades
of memories. “Joxer! He was yours. And Minya and Hower.” She
snickered. “For a while anyway.”
“Yeah,
yeah. Well, lay off this one. At least she doesn’t clank, want my whip or
toss me aside for another woman in leather two minutes after professing her
profound love for me.”
Gabrielle
laughed. “You do deserve someone
‘normal’ for a change. I’ll keep my
curiosity in check. Focus on my
legendary trust instead.”
“Good.” Xena rubbed her hands together. “Frees me to focus on my legendary
butt-kicking.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Upon
reaching the outskirts of an abandoned fort, Moira rode ahead. When she returned, she reported some 35
villagers inside. “They’re a bit skeptical
it’s really you,” she said. “That’ll
change when they see you in action.
Once
again Gabrielle found something odd about Moira’s comment, but decided to keep
her mouth shut as promised. “Should we
meet them now?”
“Um
…. If you don’t mind, I’d rather wait
for Stanos and the others.” Moira
smiled shyly at Xena. “Maybe get some
private lessons first? Dazzle them with
my new skills?”
“Actually, not a bad idea. Good camping over there. We can talk tactics, do some drills.” Xena glanced apologetically at her
partner. “Relax in between?”
“Hmm. Shades of ‘early’ Gabrielle. Not to worry,” she added at Xena’s pained
expression. “I bought some fresh
scrolls and ink in town. Have a feeling
I’ll be scribing an interesting addendum to our ‘geezer’ adventures.”
During
the next two days, Gabrielle hiked a bit through the forest and lush nearby
meadows. She did some writing. Mostly she observed the two figures engaged
in various forms of martial arts. It
never ceased to amaze her how much of her youthful physical abilities her
soulmate had retained. She even
performed the few flips Gabrielle deemed permissible.
For
her part, Moira picked up techniques with surprising ease. Before long she parried Xena’s stick without
losing her own after three strikes.
Xena hadn’t yet taught her “the pinch” – Gabrielle suspected out of
over-sensitivity to a certain petite blonde’s feelings – but demonstrated
pressure points that would be almost as effective.
A
day after Stanos and his recruits arrived, Moira felt ready to introduce
Xena. Gabrielle prepared to accompany
them. Moira caught her arm.
“You
want to come too? Won’t it be boring
for you?”
Gabrielle
pursed her lips. “I’m usually the designated demonstration partner.”
“Um
….” Moira exchanged glances with Xena.
“We
… uh … I figured Moira could do that.
You know, strut her stuff.”
“Maybe
you could work with my brother? Out
here? So the others don’t get jealous?”
Gabrielle
allowed a conciliatory smile. “Not a
problem. Go on. I’ll be over there waiting for him.”
Awhile
later, Stanos came out. He didn’t look
particularly happy for tutelage from the sidekick. Gabrielle didn’t mind.
He’d learn soon enough. Besides,
despite her best efforts, her curiosity had gotten the better of her. She discovered Stanos was a young man of few
words. He did exclaim a few times when
she whipped a stick from his hands in the blink of an eye, or when he landed on
his butt from a foot swipe he didn’t see coming.
“Whew.” He wiped his brow. “Xena’s good. She does
fancy stuff. You don’t mess
around.” He gave her an appreciative
nod. “Right to it. I like that.”
“Xena
loves butt-kicking. I do it from
necessity.” Gabrielle gestured toward
her blanket. “Let’s take a break. You’ll need all your energy for the next
session.”
The
two sipped water and ate fruit.
“So. Everything going okay? No problems with them seeing Moira as a
leader?”
“Nuh
uh.”
“That
was very considerate of you.”
“Huh?”
“I
understand you’re her older brother.”
“Uh
huh.”
“Must
not’ve been easy letting her be out front.”
“She
got the brains in the family. Natural
she’d have ambitions. Me?” He shrugged. “Bein’ the farmer suited me fine.”
“Ambitions? You mean besides marriage, raising kids?”
Stanos
snorted. “Nah, not the settlin’ down
type. No guys I know man enough to
order her around.”
“Huh. She seems sweet, rather shy.”
“Heh. Our recruits know better. Ones from home anyway. After Xena, they’ll all see she’s got the
right stuff.”
“More
water?”
“Yeah,
thanks.”
“You
should have a fighting chance now. I
mean, with Xena’s help. It’s great
Moira’s getting to learn from the warrior who inspired her.”
“Yup. Grew up hearing about Xena.” Stanos absently fiddled with his sparring
stick, mind wandering back to his childhood.
“Should’ve seen the look on Moira’s face, first time we – .” His head jerked up. He gave Gabrielle a quick glance and saw her
expression of polite interest hadn’t changed.
“Um, somebody came to town. A
bard. Told stories about Xena. Never saw Moira so excited.”
“Mm. And now here they are. Together.”
“Uh,
yeah. Lucky, huh.” Stanos fidgeted, drumming his fingers on his
thigh.
“Almost
like …. What did Moira call it? Ah, yes.
Fate.” Gabrielle stretched and
prepared to rise. “Enough chatting,
eh? Why don’t we – in your words – ‘get
to it.’”
˜˜˜˜˜
That
evening, Moira stayed in the fort, while her guests retired to their camp. For once Xena dominated the
conversation. She reported more
progress than expected. The novice
“troops” included rougher elements.
They took surprisingly well to her regimen and even to accepting Moira
as their leader. The two were about to
turn in when Xena realized Gabrielle’s contribution of words had been unusually
small.
“How’d
it go with Stanos? You teach him not to
underestimate wrinkled sidekicks?”
“Stanos?” Gabrielle paused in smoothing out her
bedroll. “Um, it went fine.” She smirked. “He was properly impressed.”
“You
learn anything?” Xena rolled her eyes
at Gabrielle’s expression. “Don’t give
me that innocent look. If turnips had
blood, you’d get it out of `em.”
“Humph.” Gabrielle mentally reviewed her conversation
with Stanos, surprised at her reluctance to share it with Xena. “Let’s just say he’s a turnip when it comes
to talking.”
“Gabrielle?” Xena studied her partner. “You’re okay with this, right? You aren’t having second thoughts?”
“Second
thoughts?” Gabrielle chewed her
lip. “Why do you ask?”
Xena
stretched out on her side. “I don’t
know exactly. You seem … distant … sometimes. Like you get when you’re holding something back.”
“Such
as?”
Xena
sighed. “We haven’t spent much time
together. I’ve been so caught up in
this …. Hadn’t occurred you might feel
a bit … left out.”
“Left
out? Because I don’t see you every
minute? Xena, that’s crazy. Especially from someone I’ve been
practically glued to longer than my last nerve.”
Xena
picked at some knotted fur on her bedroll.
“Sure, I know that.” She glanced
up. “Moira doesn’t.”
“Moira?! Did she say something?”
“She
… um … wonders if maybe you resent her a little. You know, for taking me away from you so much.”
“And
where’d she get that idea?”
“Don’t
get mad, okay? She thinks you’re
great. Appreciates your kindness and
patience. It’s just …. I guess she feels you’ve been …
reserved. Maybe … suspicious? Of her intentions?”
Gabrielle
took a deep breath. “I feel there’s
more to her than she lets on. Not
necessarily bad. The reality is, we are
strangers. Could be she needs more time
to fully trust us.” Gabrielle smiled
wryly. “Despite our many instant
friendships.” She stretched out facing
Xena.
“You
have instincts and aren’t always sure where they’ll lead. My curiosity’s the same. Please, assure Moira I do not feel
threatened in any way.” Gabrielle
rolled over to give her soulmate a peck on the forehead. “Only one who can do that is you. Now get some rest. You may not want to
expend all your energy on your students tomorrow.”
“Yeah? Somebody else I might tire myself out on?”
Gabrielle
rolled to her back. “That extra
credit? I am having second
thoughts about giving it up.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Gabrielle
sat in the shade writing down some thoughts.
She looked up to see Moira approaching.
“Hi.”
“Well,
hello there.”
“I’m
hoping for some staff lessons. Xena
said you were the best.” Moira smiled
shyly. “You up for that?”
Gabrielle
set her scroll aside. “Sure. Although Xena tends to exaggerate my
prowess.”
“I
doubt that.” Moira held Gabrielle’s
eyes. “She hasn’t exaggerated anything
yet, when it comes to you.”
Gabrielle
laughed good-naturedly. “There’s always
a first time. Even after 25
years.” She retrieved her staff and
handed Moira the stick Stanos had used.
“We’ll start with some basic moves.”
She
demonstrated proper grips for various offensive and defensive maneuvers. On a hunch, she spun suddenly, her staff
aimed for Moira’s head. Moira deftly
blocked.
“Excellent
reaction,” Gabrielle said, backing off.
“For a beginner.”
“I
do seem gifted at this kinda thing,” Moira responded with no pretense at
girlish surprise. “But I learned that
move from my sword lessons.”
“Ah. Took me several hours of drills. I wasn’t a … ‘natural.’ Like you and Xena.” Gabrielle raised her staff. “We’ll jump to something more difficult.”
A
few rounds later, the two dropped to the blanket and got some water.
“I
thought Xena was rough,” Moira said after catching her breath. “Sure you weren’t trying to kill me?”
“Nooo. Contrary to perceptions you may have.”
“Xena
told you?”
“Moira,
I’m sorry if I’ve given you the wrong impression. Xena’s happy working with you and your budding militia. That’s all that counts.”
“But
you don’t like me.”
“I
don’t trust you.”
Moira
blinked. “Gee. That was honest.”
“Actually,
it was a warning.” Gabrielle relaxed
against the tree at her back. “I’m too
old to play games with you, Moira. I
may be nice. I usually give people the
benefit of the doubt. But when it comes
to Xena, all bets are off.”
“I’m
not sure what you’re getting at, Gabrielle.
I assure you –.”
“Assurances
are worth the actions they lead to.
Yours will tell me all I need to know.”
Gabrielle smiled. “Fortunately,
we tend to draw out the best in most people.
I have faith that will be true in your case. Now,” she said getting her staff, “let’s continue making the best
of your staff work.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Xena
left the fort later than usual. She
walked stiffly, none of the bounce from previous days. Her curt “hey” did not invite chitchat. Instead, she went about her camp routine as
if Gabrielle wasn’t there.
“Xena? Something happen today?”
“Yeah.”
“Wanna
tell me about it?”
“In
a minute. I’m too …. Gotta cool down first.”
“Okay.”
When
Xena finally sat across from Gabrielle, she took a few deep breaths. Her face communicated a mixture of confusion
and anger.
“Xena?”
“Not
sure how to start this. Haven’t had
much practice lately.”
“Start
with what’s bothering you most. That
usually works.”
Xena
looked up with disappointment Gabrielle hadn’t seen in a very long time. “Not when it’s you.”
Gabrielle’s
breath caught. “Me?!”
“Kinda
hard on Moira, don’tcha think?”
“What?”
“You’re
better than that. No way those were
‘accidents.’”
Gabrielle
scooted closer, startled when Xena flinched.
“Xena, honestly, I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“I
saw them, Gabrielle. The bruises. On her arms. Legs. She tried to hide
the others. I made her show me.”
“Surely
you don’t believe I ….” Gabrielle sat
back, aghast. “I barely touched
her. I took the usual precautions. In fact, even if I hadn’t stopped in time,
she was good enough to block most –.”
“Did
you go for her head? Right off the
bat?”
“Well,
yes. To test her. I wouldn’t’ve made contact. She blocked that one too. See, I had a feeling she was more
experienced than –.”
Xena’s
jaw clenched. “I asked whether you had
a problem with this. If so, you should
take it out on me. Not her.”
“Xena,
listen to yourself! You’re actually
accusing me of hurting her?
Purposely? Why on earth would I
do that?”
“I
don’t know. Doesn’t make sense.” Xena’s eyes bore into Gabrielle’s. “Surely you know there’s nothing between
us.”
Gabrielle’s
mouth dropped. “Jealousy?! Have you lost your mind? Completely forgotten I’ve loved you all
these years, when anyone else would’ve gone screaming into the night after two
minutes with your stubborn, egotistical, paranoid ….. Y-y-your ….” She sputtered, brain sorting through myriad
descriptions for the woman across from her.
“Insufferable?”
“…Insufferable hide!”
Gabrielle huffed, poised to continue her tirade. She glanced up to see grudging bemusement,
signaling the storm had passed. “Thank
you. Just the word I was looking
for. Not to mention ‘delusional.’” She decided to leave it at that. After all, it's not like she didn't know the
risks of keeping secrets – possibly unleashing the warrior’s imagination to run
wild.
“If
you didn’t do it, that would mean ….”
Xena shook her head. “But why
would she? For attention? I don’t give her enough as it is?” She looked at Gabrielle, perplexed. “I’m old enough to be her …. She couldn’t possibly think …. I mean,
there’s been nothing to give her the idea ….”
“I
don’t know, Xena. Maybe ….” Gabrielle girded herself to suggest
something she didn’t believe. “Maybe
she has uncommonly thin skin. Bruised
easily from the taps I gave her.”
“Yeah? You think?”
Gabrielle
noted the relief on Xena’s face. “It’s
possible. An alternative to going off
the deep end.”
“She
didn’t blame you. Seemed more
embarrassed than anything.”
“See? No need to change your attitude towards
her.” Gabrielle narrowed her eyes. “You tell her I might’ve done it
intentionally?”
Xena
puffed up with righteous indignation.
“Of course not.”
“Riiiight. Being so trustful of your companion of lo
these many years.”
Xena
winced. “Sorry about that. Not sure what got into me.”
Gabrielle crawled over to put an arm around Xena’s waist. “This feels good to you. Everything that means anything to you – all rolled into one. Moira being the catalyst. Only natural you wouldn’t want it turning to dust.”
Xena
sighed. “You’re right, you know.” She pulled Gabrielle closer. “I am delusional. Like anyone besides you would tolerate this turnip.”
“Insufferable
turnip.” Gabrielle playfully pinched
Xena’s nose. “It can be trying
sometimes.”
Xena
squeezed the forgiving body in her arms.
“But not necessarily tiring?”
“Tiring?”
“Uh
huh. I was tired at first. I’m not now. You?”
Gabrielle
stared up at Xena as if the warrior actually had lost her mind. She caught a clue at the “come hither”
expression and burst out laughing. “You
truly are insufferable,” she emphasized with a swat to the midsection. “After all that, you still expect extra
credit?”
“I
gave you the right word, didn’t I?”
“Know
what?”
“What.”
Gabrielle
pulled Xena down to her bedroll. “In
our next life? I’m coming back as the
turnip.”
˜˜˜˜˜
“You
wanted to see me?”
Gabrielle
imagined young Xena once displayed the same cockiness as Moira. “Yes.
Walk with me.”
Moira
reluctantly followed Gabrielle to a meadow filled with wildflowers. She knew they wouldn’t be doing drills but
brought her staff anyway. No telling
what Gabrielle had in mind.
“Beautiful,
isn’t it?” Gabrielle asked, rolling out a blanket and indicating for Moira to
sit. “Helps me clear my mind,
surrounded by nature’s gifts. You?”
“It’s
all right. I’m more interested in you
at the moment. What you’re up to.”
“It’s
simple, really.” Gabrielle stretched
out her legs. “Finding out what you’re up to.”
“I’m
an ordinary peasant girl. I don’t like
being bullied. I mean to stop the
bullies. That’s about it.”
“Mm. I don’t think so. I’ve been trying to figure out what’s so odd about your
story. The lies are one thing.”
Moira
stiffened. “What’re you talking about.”
“Poor,
innocent girly girl intimidated by big bad boys. Slapped around by drunken louts.
Self-doubt about her leadership qualities. Her lack of fighting skills.
Knowing of Xena as only a legendary hero presumed dead.” Gabrielle raised a brow. “That little show in Alleteon? You bruise your own cheek? Like you did the rest of you after our staff
drills?”
“I’m
outta here,” Moira stated, getting to her feet.
“Sit
… down.”
“Or
what?” Moira twirled her staff. “You gonna poke me with your gnarly finger?”
“I
may.” Gabrielle gazed at the girl with
wry indulgence. “And when you can’t
move, I’ll tie you with pieces of your shirt.
You’re gonna listen either way.
Your choice.”
Moira
measured the older woman. She’d sensed
early on Gabrielle could be a problem.
Had kept her away from contact with the other rebels. She’d relied on Stanos not to have loose
lips. Apparently even he was no match
for Gabrielle, who sat relaxed as if the topic was butterflies and Moira merely
a specimen in her net. No fear or
uncertainty. No anger either. Only absolute, unwavering confidence. Moira had done some foolish things in her
young life, but she was no fool. She
knew she’d be one if she tested Gabrielle’s resolve.
“Can’t
hurt to hear what you have to say.”
Moira eased back down. “Besides,
I’m curious what you think you know.”
“Ah. Curious.
Now that’s something we have in common.” Gabrielle plucked a flower and sniffed. “Amazing, isn’t it? How
little thought some people give a wondrous thing like this. To me it’s inspiration for discovering the
essence of someone’s story.” She
returned her gaze to Moira.
“Interesting, how similar yours is to Xena’s. Like discovering you by the road with a lame horse.
“Xena
once conned a man in similar fashion.
Iolaus. Best friend of
Hercules. She was building an
army. Wanted to make a name for
herself. Figured she’d do so by
eliminating Hercules, learning what she could from Iolaus. She tried to turn them against each
other. Fortunately failed. Thing is, I never wrote about that. Happened long before I met Xena. Yet it’s as if you – who weren’t even alive
then – are reprising that story.
Coincidence? Fate?” Gabrielle paused. “Plot?”
Moira
squinted at the strange woman talking to her.
“Why would you care? Why should
I care about something you came up with out of thin air?”
“Because
we both want the same thing.”
“Pfft. What’s that.”
“Xena’s
success. Her help training you to
defeat the enemies of Alleteon.”
“You
accuse me of lying. Say you don’t trust
me. Yet still you want to help?” Moira shook her head. “I don’t understand you.”
“You
will. First I need to understand you. You’ve nothing to lose. With what I’ve guessed so far, I can
convince Xena to leave. The truth – the
whole truth – could mean you walk away free to do whatever you want.”
Moira rolled her staff in her hands. Part of her plan was years in the making. The other part …fate? Both could go up in smoke, depending upon the response of a has-been hero. Or, play out. Her gut said Gabrielle wanted only honesty. No strings that might tie Moira’s hands.
“Iolaus
was a distant relative. He stayed with
my grandfather’s folks during that time he met Xena. They passed that story down – how she almost came between him and
Hercules. What Iolaus learned of Xena’s
life before. I knew since I was ten I
wanted to be like the Xena he met.”
“Not
the hero she became?”
Moira
snickered. “She didn’t spring up like
that, did she? Maybe her heart changed,
but it was her past that made her great.
You should know. You wrote about
the so-called evil people she learned from.
The dark deeds that taught her strategy and skills. Even you can’t pretend that’s separate from
who she became.”
“No,
I can’t.”
“When
Tricinus brought his gang to Alleteon a few years ago, I knew what I had to
do. I picked up what skills I
could. Convinced the guys and a few
girls to join with me.”
“And
Xena? How did you know she was alive?”
“I
didn’t. Not before Trimea.” Moira grinned smugly. “Stanos and I happened
to be near there not long ago. Heard
about an older woman claiming to be Xena.
That she defeated the warlord Galates.
We found a spot on a hilltop.
Watched her whip some militias into shape. There were always rumors.
From what I saw, it seemed the real Xena was as alive as her legend.”
Gabrielle
nodded. “You’ve kept track of us since
then. Arranged ‘bumping into’ us. Why the ruse? Why not simply ask for help?”
“I
wanted more.” Moira raised her
chin. “A reputation. Same as she did by besting Hercules.”
“So
you’d use her like she did Iolaus. Then
kill her.”
“Why
not? When I saw her, everything fell in
place. Payback for Iolaus. Expertise to free my home village. Going down in history as the woman who beat
Xena. Taking up where she left off when
she nearly conquered the world.”
“And
now?”
“Nothing’s
changed. Except you. Just my luck you aren’t the knucklehead
Iolaus was.”
“Lovely.” Gabrielle steepled her hands under her chin.
“You know, it took Xena a long time to trust people. To see the good she could do with her heart, not just her
sword. You’ve brought back the time in
her life when her motives were pure.
All she wanted was to protect Amphipolis. She believes she can steer you away from the bad that happened
later, toward the good. It’s giving her
pleasure I haven’t seen quite like this.
I’d hate for her to lose that.
For her openness to bring hurt in a new way. ”
Moira
rolled her eyes. “I’d heard you were
the gullible one. Idealistic and
such. Xena’s supposed to be tough as
nails.”
“Mm. What matters is that I’m her protector. Especially of her heart. It’s why I’ll allow you to play out your
scheme.”
Moira
sat dumbstruck. Was Gabrielle
nuts? “W-what do you mean?”
“We’re
going to act as if nothing has changed.
As if this chat never happened.
Xena will continue giving you her best shot without reservations. The guidance and opportunity to do some
good. It’s up to you what you do with
it. At least she’ll know it was your
choice.” Gabrielle raised a brow. “Your … destiny?”
“Humph. You figure on turning me into a do-gooder,
like Xena?”
“I’ve
learned the hard way not everyone is redeemable. I once befriended an enemy soldier. He brought back an entire army to attack us.”
“You’d
… you’d let me kill her?”
“Maybe
in your story. I’m writing this
one. I can pretty much guarantee that
is not how it’ll end.”
During
the next few weeks, Xena prepared the rebels for securing the safety of
Alleteon. The spies she dispatched
reported Tricinus approaching the village for his periodic stay. Two other warlords and about 100 men
accompanied him. With Xena’s
consultation, Moira divided her rebels into two primary groups. One would conduct hit-and-runs during the
enemy’s advance, the other take up defensive positions in and around
Alleteon. The dawn before mobilization,
Xena reviewed plans one last time with Moira in the little office the latter
had set up for herself.
“That’s
it, then.”
“You
chose wisely for the ambush team. It’s
an effective use of their aggressiveness and … creativity. The others are better suited to the
disciplined force we need to protect the civilians in Alleteon.” Xena smiled. “They’ll have a good leader.
I’ll be there if you need me.”
She studied Moira a moment. “Scared? Only natural if you are.”
“I’m
… not sure.” Moira brushed her hand
across the rough map they’d drawn.
“It’s like a dream, yet my heart is racing. My brain is whirling.
Sometimes it’s all the ways the mission could go wrong. Other times I see us defeating
Tricinus.” Her index finger landed on
the tiny square representing Alleteon.
“Funny.”
“What’s
that?”
“Up
to now, it was all about how to win. I
didn’t really think about the people.
Villagers. Our militia.” Moira was silent a moment. “Our parents are dead, you know.”
“No,
I didn’t.”
“Stanos
and I fended for ourselves a lot. The
neighbors helped. I didn’t get very
attached to any. Not sure why, but they
looked to me when there was trouble.
You know, kids not behaving.
Somebody believing a merchant cheated them. I’ve started seeing their faces.
Feeling a connection I hadn’t before.
A … responsibility. I figured
it gave me an advantage, focused only on what we had to do. Objectivity, I guess. Isn’t that better for a commander? Not letting emotional stuff get in the way?”
Xena
dropped down into a desk chair. “Caring
started me on my path. Wanting to
protect my family. Amphipolis. It gave me the motivation and courage. After our success, I cared too much. Sought to stop intruders at the expense of
other villages. Justified my actions as
on behalf of my kinsmen. On behalf of
myself as their ‘protector.’ After
awhile, I lost sight of the faces in a blur of conquests. Friends and foes alike. I lost sight of myself as more than my best
weapon. When I stopped caring ….”
Moira
leaned across the desk. “You became the
greatest commander known.”
“And
a monster.”
The
hard set to Xena’s face pushed Moira back.
She hadn’t seen that before. Not
in their discussions of warfare. Or
about the qualities of strong leadership.
It occurred to her they hadn’t really discussed punishment much. Instead, Xena had given tips for positive
motivation, rewarding exemplary behavior, meting out fair justice.
“You
don’t believe in whipping a man for disobedience? Making an example of some uncooperative villager? When that’s what’ll work?”
“As
Destroyer of Nations, yes. I did what
was easiest. Casualties be
damned.” Xena cocked her head. “Thought we were talking basic defense of a
village. Maybe a militia.”
Moira
bit her lip. “Uh, y-yeah. Sure.
Of course. I was just –.”
“Then,
as I was saying, it begins with caring.”
Xena’s eyes softened.
“Hopefully, you’ll still care when it’s over. As to whether you could be a great commander as well ….” She gazed at her hands. “I’m not one to speak on that.”
“You,
um, don’t want to?”
“Can’t.”
“Can’t?”
“Never
tried it.”
Moira
frowned. “You cared after your … dark …
period, right? You care now. You became – still are – one of the greatest
warriors.”
“Yes. Warrior.
You need an army to earn reputation as a commander – great or
otherwise. Monster or hero. Live with them over a long period. Constantly consider their needs, their every
action, even their thoughts. I didn’t
want that any more. Or to rule the
world. Didn’t trust myself with that
much power again. As a warrior, caring
has inspired me to do the impossible. I
couldn’t – haven’t – asked for more.”
Moira
regarded the map again, this time the territory surrounding Alleteon. She’d already imagined the army required for
control. The commander with vision and
expertise to conquer it. Ideally no
faces getting in the way. Certainly not
the one across from her.
“A
great warrior. That’s enough for
you. Gotcha.” Moira squared her shoulders.
“Okay, then, let’s do this. I’m
as ready as I’m gonna get.”
˜˜˜˜˜
The
surprise attacks had gone well. By the
time they reached the outskirts of Alleteon, the warlords’ troops had been
reduced considerably, while the ambushers suffered only one loss. As Xena and Gabrielle monitored the
situation outside, Moira sat alone in the inn pondering her choices.
Spies
had witnessed bickering among the warlords.
Apparently they disagreed on Alleteon’s value, given the escalating price
for its occupation. Moira could wait
them out in hopes they’d simply walk away. Of course, they could lay siege and
wait for the village to succumb. Some
of the elders had suggested negotiation.
The warlords could stay on occasion, if they followed rules and paid for
services. Otherwise they would face
armed resistance. But if this enemy had
been truly weakened, the militia could take the battle to them. Defeat – possibly wipe them out – once and
for all.
“Hey,
Sis.” Stanos joined Moira. “Enemy’s pulled up at the road in. Some’ve fanned out so it’s hard to leave
that way. Farmers can’t get in for
supplies.”
“A
siege?”
“Don’t
think so. More like a standoff. Waiting to see our next move.” Stanos leaned forward conspiratorially. “The strike force wants to hit `em now. Get rid of Tricinus. Maybe pick up some deserters. Could be the beginning of that army you
always wanted to build. Those not up
for it could stay on for a militia. The
rest could move out to … protect … the area.”
Stanos grinned. “For a small
…tax.”
“And
Xena? She have anything to say?”
“Uh
huh. That’s the best part. Said to tell you she’s ready to help
however. Negotiation. All-out battle. Even fight Tricinus one-on-one.”
“A
duel?”
Stanos
relaxed back. “Seems once the leader’s
gone, she can convince his troops to leave Alleteon alone.”
Moira
gazed at the ceiling. She was so
close. She truly believed they could
prevail without any heroics from Xena.
Indeed, a victory like this could launch her quest to become
Xena. But not if Xena saved the
day. On the other hand, Xena might fail
in her combat with Tricinus. Die then
or “accidentally” later. At the least,
lose face. Open the way for Moira to
assume a legend’s mantle.
“Sis?”
Moira
snorted softly. Finally paying
attention to how little she understood Xena.
Why the warrior would risk her life for Alleteon. But, then, even an aged Xena was a pretty
good bet to win. And then what? Allow Moira to take command of the enemy
forces? Expect her to resume life as a
peasant girl, except with newly acquired battle skills, content playing war
games with a village militia? Continue
as an apprentice at Xena’s side?
“What’s
it gonna be? Your troops’re waiting for
orders.”
“I know. Hold your horses.” Moira briefly closed her eyes, replaying the scenario she’d aspired to for so long. Herself proudly astride a magnificent stallion, warriors lined up behind, fires in the background blazing her glory. Xena no more than ashes left behind by another greatest of the greats. “Assemble the elders and noncombatants,” she said, pushing her chair back. “We must spare no one in sending the message Alleteon is through being up for grabs.”
˜˜˜˜˜
Moira
sat tall in the saddle, enemy defectors lined in front, her troops behind. No Tricinus. No Xena. No blazes to
signal her conquest. She basked instead
in the sun at her back. The murmurs of
admiration. All eyes upon the slender
figure who had managed the unimaginable.
Everyone awaiting her command.
It was if time had stilled, heightening her every sense – the heartbeat
in her ears, the tingling on her skin, her sight turned inward to realize she’d
achieved the same outside.
So
this was it. The feeling of a dream
come true. As fleeting as hard
won. A moment worth savoring. Sharing.
Satisfying better dreams. Xena
had been right: the faces made it so.
“We
did it!” Moira raised her fist in
triumph. “Let the celebration begin!”
A
thunderous roar greeted her words. The
crowd surged around her, dancing and shouting her name. She remained mounted, searching. Finally caught sight of the two women she
sought, easing their way toward the stables.
The din drowned out her call to them.
They seemed to know anyway. They
turned and smiled. The shorter one gave
the “okay” sign. The taller one raised
two thumbs. Moira prized that moment
even more. She saluted it as one might
the making of a legend.
˜˜˜˜˜
The
clear, warm late afternoon wrapped the wagon occupants in comfortable
serenity. Sounds of conflict and
confusion faded into recent memory.
Honeysuckle vanquished lingering scents of sweat and toil. To souls who’d weathered many winters, the
wonder and renewal of nature in spring would always bring the breath of fresh
air.
“It’s
okay.”
“Hm?”
Gabrielle
smirked at Xena’s profile. “You’ve
earned it.”
“Hmm?” Xena glanced up from the reins in her
hand. “Earned?” Her puzzlement morphed into anticipation. “Ahhh.”
She began scanning for a suitable rest stop.
Gabrielle
rolled her eyes. “Not that. Not yet anyway.”
“Oh.”
“Insufferableness.”
“Come
again?”
“You
did good. So good, you lost the bet and
still won. Insufferableness well
deserved.”
“What
makes you think I’m having a bout now?”
“You
were smiling. No doubt congratulating
yourself on your good deeds.”
“Mm. In that case, I’ll take a rain check. Add to whatever else I’ve earned.” Xena’s eyes twinkled before turning serious. “Actually, I was thinking how lucky I am.”
“Oh? The chance to help Moira?”
“More
like … the chance to … enjoy it. Felt …
clean.”
Gabrielle
rested her head on Xena’s shoulder.
“I’m glad.”
“Thanks,
by the way.”
“For
what? Softening her up for ya with my
staff?”
Xena
bumped heads. “You know what I
mean. For helping it stay clean.”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “Smarty pants. When did you first suspect?”
“The
horse shoe. No ‘accident’ then either.”
“And
you played along because …?”
Xena
smirked. “Curiosity. You don’t have a lock on that, ya
know.” She cut her eyes at her
soulmate. “The danger to Alleteon
seemed real enough. Her desire to do
something. If I could help her – the
village – why not?”
“I
kept waiting for your skepticism to kick in.
At first I thought it a trick.”
Gabrielle cut her eyes at her soulmate.
“You know, win the bet somehow?
Wait for my curiosity to kick in?”
“Nah. Figured I’d play you this time. Give `er the benefit of the doubt.” Xena sucked in her cheeks. “Until those bruises. I wasn’t really mad at you, so much as
myself – playing the patsy. At her, for
implicating you. Shook the belief, the
generous spirit I’d worked so hard on.
If I forced her hand, I might lose her.
Maybe lose my willingness to care.”
“Heh. So you left it up to me to play you?” Gabrielle snickered. “Talk about patience. You have no idea how close I came to
knocking her silly.”
“I
could tell you picked up on something.
Pretense and all.” Xena gave a
sheepish grin. “Yours, I mean. But if
there was good in her, figured you’d pick up on that too.” Xena reined in the horses. “Ready for a break?” she asked,
stretching. “My bladder could sure use
one.”
“I’m
with ya there.”
They climbed down to visit the bushes. After, they unfurled a blanket and took out travel rations.
“Speaking
of curiosity, I noticed Moira chatted with you a little. Before she took on Tricinus. Some last pearls of wisdom from her mentor?”
“I’d
… um …offered my services. Should they
be needed.”
Gabrielle
narrowed her eyes. “Such as?”
“Humph. Will ya look at that.” Xena displayed a wormhole in her apple. “Knew I shouldn’t turned my back on that
produce guy. Wonder how much other
rotten stuff he pawned off on us,” she groused, pawing through their bag of
food.
“Xena.”
“Hmmm?”
“You
can inspect every leaf of lettuce. It
won’t get you out of answering my question.”
“Hmm,
not a bad idea.” Xena picked up a head
of lettuce. “I’m surprised at you. You’re usually so picky about – .”
“Xeeena.”
“Yeah?” Xena looked up innocently. “Oh, right.
Your question. Sorry. You know how single-minded I can get when I
see –.”
“Xena!”
“Okay,
okay. Sheesh! It was nothing, really.
I’d be her point person, whatever she decided. You know, the usual.
Negotiating. Leading the
troops.” Xena ducked her head. “Duke it out with Tricinus,” she mumbled.
“I
see.” Gabrielle crossed her arms. “Mighty cooperative of you. Especially if she wanted you …out of the
way.”
“Out
of the way?” Xena blinked. “Why, whatever do you mean?”
Gabrielle
rolled her tongue in her cheek. “I
didn’t just pick you out of a turnip patch.
If you figured she wasn’t all sweetness and light, you must’ve figured
she didn’t need you around to steal her thunder. Benefit of the doubt notwithstanding.”
“Why? You scare her into confessing?” Xena ruffled her partner’s hair. “I do so love when you get all
protective.” She snickered at
Gabrielle’s low growl. “Even when I’m
close to snapping your last nerve.” She
scooted over and lay with her head in Gabrielle’s lap – usually an effective
ploy for mitigating killer instincts.
“Sure,
it occurred to me. But if she was
having any jitters …. Who better to
step in? Keep things from escalating
unnecessarily. Or people getting hurt
for no reason. Besides, we both knew
I’m tough to get rid of. If she planned
on me having an ‘accident’ after ….”
Xena shrugged. “So be it.”
“Lucky
for her she listened to you.”
“Listened
to me?”
“The
villagers gathering tipped me off. I
surmised we were in for one of your creative solutions. If I’d seen you strolling out to duel
Tricinus instead? I swear, Xena, I
might’ve whacked your old hide before he had the chance.”
“Yeah?” Xena reached up to tweak Gabrielle’s nose.
“Another way to get your hands on me?
Ooo, kinky.”
“Grrr.” Gabrielle chewed her lip, regretting how
hard it was to wring Xena’s neck when the silver-streaked head lolled there as
if already on a platter.
“Actually,
it was her idea.” Xena smugly nestled
more comfortably into Gabrielle’s lap.
“The villagers, I mean. Using me
would’ve been easier.” She sighed
contentedly. “I knew she’d be okay when
she said the easiest way wasn’t always right.”
“Wow. She learn that from you?”
“We
had a chat about it at the fort. Seems
she concluded Alleteon would be better off standing up to Tricinus as a united
front. Better than a hero they depended
on to save them. Or a substitute for
Tricinus – good intentions or not. A
risk, but it worked. Between what
promised to be an effective militia and rebellious civilians, Tricinus found
himself in a place not worth the effort.”
“And
she got the credit. No ancient Warrior
Princess in the way. You know, she dreamed of patterning herself after the
‘early’ you. Think she’s given up on
that?”
Xena
snorted. “What? Be more like the ‘new’ me?” She gazed out at the darkening sky. “Not sure she understands who that is. Said she knew I’d become a ‘sucker for
victims,’ but figured I’d have the same bloodlust when it came to battle
stuff. My advice on nonviolent tactics? Really surprised her.”
Gabrielle
combed her fingers through Xena’s hair.
“That was pretty special – getting tutelage from the legendary Warrior
Princes.”
“Mm. That puzzled her too. Trying to penetrate her thick skull before
it was too late? Giving her the chance
I didn’t take at her age?” Xena
snorted. “Not sure she has your empathy
when it came to understanding why.” She
giggled.
Gabrielle
frowned. “Something funny I missed?”
“P-p-private
joke.”
“Enlighten
me.”
“Okay. B-but I gotta know somethin’ first.”
“Whether
I’ll snatch every one of your gray hairs out after? Keep stalling, you’ll find out.”
“My
rain check.” Xena grinned up with
possibly her most insufferably insufferable expression. “That still on?”
“Yessss.”
“S-she
asked if my help was part of atoning for mistakes. I said n-no.” Xena could
barely contain herself. “She … she
asked why. `You’ve f-f-finally done
enough? Was this ….’” Eyes streaming, she managed to cough out,
“`W-was this f-f-for extra credit?’
Bwahahahahaha!”
Gabrielle
scowled down at the woman doubled over in her arms, renowned for cashing in on
defeat, somehow surviving innumerable brushes with death. It occurred to her how often she – like
everyone else – overlooked that her soulmate actually did win more with brains
than brawn. Smiling wryly, she allowed
her love to bubble up along with the laughter now equally difficult to
deny. Soon both women rolled on the
ground like schoolgirls who’d earned free passes to a recess they could enjoy
as long and however their tested hearts desired.
THE END