Early in their journeys, Gabrielle bumps into reminders of the life she left behind, as had Xena during the second episode CHARIOTS OF WAR.
April 2010
IseQween@aol.com
“Uh huh. Those will do nicely.” Elysia told the vendor where to deliver the
floral arrangements she’d approved.
Having completed most of her tasks, she started back to the inn. Two females strolling into town caught her
eye – one quite striking. Tall,
dark-haired, dressed to kill and leading a golden horse. But Elysia focused on the other. Could it be?
“Gabrielle?!” At sign of recognition from the redhead,
Elysia waved her hands.
“Gabrielle! Over here!”
“Elysia?”
“Yes, yes. It’s
me!”
The two ran toward
each other, embracing when they met.
“I’m so happy you
could make it.”
“Make it?”
“I didn’t expect
you. Mother said ….” Elysia’s attention drifted to the woman
who’d come up behind Gabrielle. “Um,
Gabrielle?” Elysia indicated with her
eyes Gabrielle should turn around.
“Oh, sorry. This is Xena. Xena, I’d like you to meet Elysia. We grew up together in Poteidaia.”
Xena nodded.
“What a wonderful
surprise. Who would’ve thought we’d run
into each other in Portus? Such a long
way from home.”
“Same old
Gabrielle.” Elysia swatted her friend’s
arm. “Always such a kidder.” She looked at Xena. “Are you her … guest? I’m not surprised Perdicus didn’t come. Never much into romantic stuff. Leave it to Gabrielle to corral some poor
unsuspecting stranger. Well, I welcome
you. Wherever she snatched you from.”
“Um, Elysia? I’m traveling with Xena. We came to Portus
for supplies. Exactly why are you
here?”
Elysia’s mouth
dropped. “You don’t know? About the wedding?”
“Wedding?”
“Yep. Same old Gabrielle. More likely to listen to clouds than
gossip.” Elysia crossed her arms. “I’m getting married day after
tomorrow. Most of the old gang will be
there. I was hoping you would too.”
“I’ll see to the
supplies.” Xena patted her friend’s
shoulder. “Take whatever time you need.” She inclined her head toward Elysia and
began leading Argo toward a hitching post.
“Elysia,” Gabrielle
said, watching Xena stroll off, “I…. I
don’t know what to say. I’m happy for
you, of course. I just ….”
“Didn’t know.” Elysia studied her childhood buddy. “So it’s true? You ran away for who knows where? Mother says it’s a bit of a mystery. Your folks won’t talk about it.
Except Lila.” She snorted. “Her version sounded more like one of your
stories.” She raised a brow. “Especially that warrior woman.”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “I imagine so.” She’d seen Xena enter a dry goods store and
decided the warrior didn’t intend to sneak off. “Do you have a moment? To
chat?”
“I’ve been staying
at the inn awhile. I have to be back
there. Can you walk with me?”
Gabrielle inserted
her arm in Elysia’s. “I’d love to.”
∞∞∞∞∞
Gabrielle exited
the inn, relieved to see Xena lounging outside. “Wow. You’re really
here!”
“Evidently.” Xena rolled her tongue in her cheek. “So, how long is ‘here?’”
“Um ….” Gabrielle pointed to a couple of chairs a
few doors down. “Don’t worry. I’ll keep it brief.” She snickered. “For me, anyway.”
The two got
comfortable. Gabrielle explained Elysia
had been visiting relatives near Portus.
She’d ended up staying after meeting Mathieu and accepting his marriage
proposal. She’d sent word to Poteidaia
a few weeks ago, whereupon she learned Gabrielle had left home. Off on some adventure, according to Lila,
trailing after an ex-warlord who’d saved the village from another warlord.
“Mm. The ‘unsuspecting stranger’ you …
corralled.”
“She knows now
we’re friends. I filled her in on your
… um … back story. Told her about the
good we’ve dedicated ourselves to.”
Gabrielle raised her chin. “And
that I go where you go.”
Xena observed a
wagon arriving with several youngish passengers. “More folks from your home village?”
Gabrielle
smiled. “Some of us used to hang out
together.” She watched them disembark
and carry gaily wrapped packages to the inn.
“Heh, bet most have never set foot beyond the fields of Poteidaia.”
“Weddings are a big
deal. And funerals.” Xena stretched out her legs. “Either way, folks usually ended up at my
mom’s place.”
“Good for business,
huh?”
Xena shrugged. “Sometimes they’d bring their own food. Wine.
She’d let `em. Said it was more
an opportunity for them. Talk to
people they’d snubbed the day before.
Enjoy friends they might not see again.” She cocked her head.
“Memories to fill in what they might miss later.”
“Hmmm. Is there a message in your recollections?”
“You’re the
talker. You tell me.”
Gabrielle glanced
at the inn, but found her attention drawn to the tethered Palomino. “Argo’s getting restless. Poor thing’s more used to get in, get out.” She cut her eyes at Xena. “Like her mistress.”
“She’s fine. Used to minding her own business.” Xena pursed her lips. “Might wanna try it sometime.”
“My
business?” Gabrielle narrowed her
eyes. “As in, ‘Gabrielle, stay
here. I’ll be back for you’ kinda
business?”
“As in, ‘Gabrielle,
make up you mind’ kinda business.”
Gabrielle
sighed. “We’ve finally gotten a kind of
rhythm going, you know? An idea what to
expect?” She ducked her head. “I mean, before and after the unexpected. I like where we are. I don’t know. This could ….”
“It’s
unexpected. Either we deal with it or
we don’t.”
“We?” Gabrielle swallowed. “You’ll stay?”
“That’s up to
you.” Xena raised a brow. “How I stay is up to me.”
∞∞∞∞∞
Xena’s idea of
“stay” happened to be a campsite in the forest bordering Portus. Argo could roam to her liking. Gabrielle could return to town for a
celebration dinner at the inn that evening, with the option of sleeping in one
of the reserved rooms. To her surprise,
the warrior agreed to accompany her, “to make sure nobody snatches you on the
way there. Or back.”
Xena hadn’t
intended to go inside. Once at the
door, she decided it wouldn’t hurt to have a drink, get a feel for the wedding
party. “G’won,” she said, nudging
Gabrielle forward before sequestering herself in the shadows. She ordered port and settled in. It seemed ages ago since she’d relaxed in a
tavern without her army, no particular purpose in mind – scoping out a
potential opponent, keeping an eye on her men’s leisure activities, conveying
to villagers she had the power to take over a lot more space for whatever and
as long as she wished. Maybe she could
use the break.
Gabrielle continued
a bit shyly toward Elysia’s table. She’d
recognized some of the faces from only a few weeks ago, though it seemed to her
like years and worlds away. She
prepared herself for whatever reception awaited, as heads turned her way.
“Gabrielle! We’d heard you came. Get on over here and give us a hug.”
Her former
neighbors hurried to greet her. Some
commented on how well she looked.
Others acknowledged how much they missed her. Many competed with “you wouldn’t believe” incidents that had
occurred during her absence. When it
dawned on them how little they’d heard from their habitually chatty friend,
Elysia gathered them together conspiratorially. She searched the room, ultimately crooking her head toward a dark
figure in back.
“Really?” a young
man said. “The Warrior Princess? That’s her?”
“Shhhh. Not so loud.” Elysia glanced apologetically at the woman in question. “Gabrielle says she’s really a regular
person. But likes her space. Respect her privacy, okay?”
The others
attempted to observe some discretion.
For about 10 minutes. After that
they peppered Gabrielle with questions about why she’d left, what she’d been
doing, what it was like traveling with an infamous legend. When she’d return home. “Okay, okay,” she relented, laughing. “Don’t blame me, if you’re bored.” They snorted in derision. “Seriously, it’ll sound pretty
fantastical. ‘Awww, that’s just one of
Gabrielle’s tall tales.’”
People got up all
right – to push tables together and move closer to hear Gabrielle. Though seated next to the popular
storyteller, Elysia felt invisible, as if the celebration of her nuptials had
turned into a homecoming for the one person there by accident. Until a familiar voice came to her
rescue.
“Hey, what’s going
on here?” Mathieu pushed his way
through those huddled around his fiancée. “Cassius, I’m gone a few minutes, and
you hi-jack my future bride? I won her
fair and square. Deal with it.” Smirking, he shooed away the fellow sitting
beside Elysia. “What about the rest a
ya? You’d better of saved some fun for
me.”
The others fell
quiet, some looking sheepish, others disappointed. Like Gabrielle, many glanced surreptitiously in the direction of
the dark figure who had dominated much of the conversation, only to discover
her gone.
“Mathieu?” Gabrielle reached behind Elysia to squeeze
the young man’s arm. “I’m so glad to
meet you. And I couldn’t agree
more.” She raised a goblet. “I’d be honored to start off the wishes for
a beautiful wedding day.”
“Hear, hear!”
One of Mathieu’s
friends told a funny story about the couple sneaking a kiss behind a market
wagon, totally unaware when the vendor pulled off and exposed the romantic
moment to everyone in sight. Others
joined in with similar anecdotes, punctuated with more toasts to matrimonial
bliss. Laughter and congenial
conversation continued as food was served.
Suddenly a matron
rushed in to whisper in Elysia’s ear.
“You’re sure?”
“We’ve looked
everywhere.”
“Elysia?” Mathieu noted his betrothed’s suddenly pale
face. “What’s up?”
Elysia slumped with
an expression of disbelief. “Our
gifts. They’re … gone.”
Those at the far
ends heard gasps and excited murmurs.
“What’s going on?”
Mathieu stood. “Everyone?
Don’t be alarmed. A little …
wrinkle … we have to deal with.”
“Their gifts!”
someone blurted out. “They’ve been
stolen!”
“No!”
“Shhh. Quiet down.” Mathieu put an arm around Elysia’s shoulders. “Could be misplaced, is all.”
“I noticed a
stranger lurking about,” reported one of the latecomers. “Big, mean-looking woman with weapons. I’d wager she knows – .”
“Hold on.” Gabrielle stood. “That’s Xena. She’s
waiting for – .”
“Xena?! The warlord? Oooo. You’re right. Could be waiting for her army. Better be careful how we – .”
“She’s not a
warlord anymore. No army either.” Gabrielle straightened her shoulders. “But probably our best bet for dealing with
this … wrinkle.”
∞∞∞∞∞
Xena relaxed in a
rickety rocking chair across from the inn.
She swirled the port in her mug, gazing at the night sky, wryly
wondering whether it was as peaceful as it looked. The twinkling stars could fool you. Draw focus away from threatening signs. Lull you into thinking a light spring breeze meant the end of
freezing rain. Like delusions her
environment had changed because it now included Gabrielle. Or that Gabrielle’s wouldn’t worsen with the
Warrior Princess.
Yes, it was good
seeing her young companion as the center of fond attention. In the midst of youthful gaiety, the
recapturing of carefree times.
Cherished for the flights of fancy and innocence that might mean trouble
on the road. Too bad that hadn’t warded
off the chill emanating from a certain dark presence in the room. Probably no amount of sunnyness would. She’d felt it in the wedding party’s furtive
glances, despite Gabrielle’s presumably charitable explanations. Hated to see the light around Gabrielle
dim. Be reminded of why.
She’d eased out
into the darkness, reminded how recently she’d had the chance to experience the
life she’d given up. A home. Children’s faces beaming up at her. Silky softness, rather than blood, covering
her hands. But she couldn’t keep what
she hadn’t earned. Too much to make up
for first. Gabrielle, however, deserved
better. Hadn’t traveled enough yet to
fathom the illusory benefits of “adventure.”
Perhaps this reunion with childhood friends and dreams presented the
opportunity to seek the right environment before it was too late.
“Xena?” Gabrielle squinted at the copper swirls she
could barely make out in the torchlight.
“Is that you?”
“Presumably.”
“I didn’t know
you’d left until ….” Gabrielle plopped
down on a crate beside the rocking chair.
“You’ve been out here the whole time?”
She surveyed the closed shops and empty street. “Doing what?”
“Entertaining
myself.” Xena drained her cup. “Like I did before I had … other options.”
“Oh, Xena, I’m
sorry.” Gabrielle ducked her head. “I didn’t mean …. I should’ve known you’d get sucked in anyway. A topic of curiosity. Guess I wasn’t really sure what to expect.”
“S’okay. You’ve been around plenty of my …
acquaintances. Only fair I tolerate
yours.” Xena snickered. “Least they don’t wanna kill us. Beyond talking me to death.”
“Um, about that….”
“Yesssss?”
“Seems there may
have been a robbery. The wedding
gifts.”
“Peachy. Let me guess. I happen to be the primary suspect?”
“Um, you’re name
did come up.” Gabrielle rubbed her
nose. “Not so much as the
criminal. More the crime solver.”
“Mm. After testimonials from my parole officer,
no doubt.”
“Xeenaaa.” Gabrielle spanked the warrior’s arm. “Personally, I’d question the guy who
mentioned you. He came late. Before the theft was discovered. He could’ve had enough time to – .”
“Nah. He passed me when he rode in. Went straight to the inn.” She cocked her head. “I did see something odd. Somebody in a cloak. Came from behind the inn. Dragging a couple sacks.”
“Ooo. Sounds suspicious all right.” Gabrielle clasped her hands. “Did you see where he went? Any distinguishing marks? A limp maybe? Height? Weight? Maybe looking around like he wasn’t familiar
with – .”
“Would you like his
name too?” Xena chuckled at Gabrielle’s
huff. “Hard to tell much. From the way the cloak fell, I’d say
tallish. Thin. Probably young. He disappeared behind that row of stores.”
“Peachy. So we don’t know where he went.”
“Didn’t say
that.” Xena stood. “Hand me that torch over there.”
“You have an
idea?” Gabrielle handed Xena the
torch. She smacked her forehead. “What’m I saying? Of course you do.”
“We’ll see.” Xena led the way to an area behind the
inn. “Careful,” she warned, holding
Gabrielle at bay and shining the torch on the trampled dirt. “Ah.”
She pointed to wide marks side by side.
“Stay behind me.” She followed
the tracks to the back door of a store.
It was locked.
“Huh. That’s curious. Somebody who lives here?
Probably knows Mathieu? Why
would they want to steal –.”
“Won’t know from
guessing.” Xena surveyed the area. “I’ll hang out over there. Good spot for surveillance.”
Gabrielle watched
Xena begin clearing a spot of twigs and pebbles. “You’re sleeping there?”
“Dozing. Culprit may plan on moving the goods before
daybreak.”
“Aren’t you
forgetting something?”
Xena spread fir
branches on the ground. “Such as?”
Gabrielle crossed
her arms. “That’s only space for one.”
Xena glanced over
her shoulder. “No room for you at the
inn?”
“What if I wanna
stay here?”
“Gabriellle. Somebody needs to monitor the guests.” Xena
smirked. “It’ll mean getting up
early. Think you can handle that?”
“Funny. Of course I can.” Gabrielle frowned. “Wait
a minute. Why would the thief stay
there? If he lives here.”
Xena blew out a
breath. She knelt to face the
redhead. “Look. You’ve been around cutthroats for weeks. Idiots whose idea of fun is burning down villages. Spend time with good people while you
can. Besides, Elysia could probably use
someone like you. Levelheaded. Calm in a crisis.” She offered a lopsided grin.
“Compared to the others, anyway.”
Gabrielle narrowed
her eyes, searching for “she’s trying to get rid of me again” evidence. She found sincerity. And a hint of regret. “We’re leaving together. You understand that, right?”
“I told you, it’s
up to you.”
“And you keep your
promises.”
“In this case,
yes.”
“You’ll come for
breakfast?”
“Not sure yet. If I don’t, hang around there until I do.”
“You’ll be
okay? Out here by yourself?”
Xena rolled her
eyes.
“Oh. Right.
Dumb question.” Gabrielle
hesitated, watching the warrior’s preparations. It struck her she’d never seen Xena alone. And wouldn’t, as long as they traveled
together. Now, even picturing it, felt
a little weird. Sad.
“Okay, then. See you tomorrow.”
“I’ll be
here.” Xena’s eyes trailed her young
friend. It occurred to her how rarely
she’d spent the night alone the past few weeks. How strange it seemed, given her solitude before Gabrielle, which
she had once expected to feel …normal.
She shook her head. Disconcerted
at how used she’d become to another presence.
How much harder it would be with only herself for company again.
∞∞∞∞∞
Gabrielle moved
quietly so as not to disturb two other young women bunking in Elysia’s room and
already asleep.
“You’re sure this
isn’t any trouble?”
“Silly. Not at all.
In fact, I feel safer with you here.”
“Riiiight.”
“You’ve been out in
the world. Survived who knows
what.” Elysia studied her old
friend. “I could always talk to you. About anything. You always listened.
Another way you made me feel safe.
This grown-up version isn’t as ditzy, but I like her too.”
Gabrielle sat
cross-legged on the bed across from Elysia’s.
“Thanks for saying that.” She
stared absently at the ceiling. “I
sometimes feel I’m slogging between two worlds. I try to keep a lot of the ‘old’ me. I think it’s a good balance for Xena.” She smiled at Elysia.
“Nice to know it had its purpose before then.”
“You do seem night
and day. You and Xena. She’s so … powerful. Somber.
Must be hard, not losing yourself.”
“See, that’s the
other part. I don’t mind being more
like her. A warrior. Maybe softer.” Gabrielle grinned. “Less
somber. Use my head to help people,
more than weapons. Though I want to get
good with those too. What about
you?” She chuckled. “You were always so cooperative about acting
out my crazy stories. I pictured you on
a stage one day. In Athens, singing and
thrilling crowds.”
Elysia
giggled. “I was quite the performer,
wasn’t I? That’s how Mathieu and I met,
you know. I’d volunteered for this
little festival play. Here in
Portus. Mainly to satisfy my aunt. Mathieu swears it was love at first
sight.” She laughed. “Even though I was playing an old hag.”
“My. That says something about him. Seeing the you beneath.”
“Heh. Truth is, I was the only young person on
stage. Probably the contrast made him
give me a second look.”
“He seems very
nice. Devoted to you.”
”Uh huh.” Elysia chewed her lip. “Same with Xena?”
“Xena?”
“The way she
watched you at the inn. No
jealousy. Just … happy you seemed
happy.”
“Huh.” Gabrielle thought about this. “She’s very protective, for sure. And patient. You wouldn’t believe the trouble I get us in. But yeah, she cares about me being happy. Worries I’ll lose my wide-eyed wonder, being
with her.”
“Don’t get to mess
around with folks like us much, huh.”
“Um, no. I’ve enjoyed it. Being with you guys again, I mean.” Gabrielle scooted closer to take Elysia’s hand. “I’m so glad I bumped into you.”
“Me too.” Elysia squeezed Gabrielle’s hand. “And I have a favor to ask.”
Gabrielle squeezed
back. “However I can help.”
“Stand with me at
the wedding? My maid of honor?”
“Nooo.” Gabrielle rocked back, for a moment
speechless. “I mean, really? You don’t have …. B-but what about Mimi or … or ….”
“I didn’t ask
anybody else.” Elysia enjoyed her
friend’s shock. “I admit, drama was one
reason.” She mimicked an outraged
expression. “`How could you ask her? I thought I was your best
friend.’ So I asked all four of them to
be maids. All equal. No weeping and moaning.”
“And they won’t
mind me? Pffft. I wasn’t exactly in
their inner circle.”
“Uh huh. So not real competition either. Perfect.”
Elysia grew serious. “What you
and I had was special. Soon as I saw
you, I knew who I wanted by my side.”
She shrugged. “They’ll probably
think I’m being charitable. My way of
making our little runaway feel like she belongs again. Whatever, I don’t really care. It’s what I want.”
Gabrielle blew out
a breath. “Wow. I’m ….
That’s some honor all right. No
one’s asked me before.” She pictured
herself with a bouquet, dressed in ….
“Elysia! What would I wear? I don’t have anything –.”
“Not to worry. We’re about the same size. I have something that’ll do just fine. Whaddya say?”
“I … um …. I’d like
to talk it over with Xena first. As a
courtesy?”
“Of course. We still have tomorrow. Think you’ll know by midday? It’ll give us time for any minor
alterations. And the last rehearsal.”
“Okay. And Elysia?
It means a lot that you asked.”
Elysia leaned
forward to hug her friend. “No more
than it means to have you here. With me
on the biggest day of my life.”
Xena stretched,
alert from her latest catnap. The night
had passed uneventfully. She heard the
usual sounds of early risers getting a jump on the new day. With any luck, the owner of the target shop
would arrive soon. She fastened on her
armor and scoped out a spot to position herself for a good view of both
entries. But first she stopped by a
nearby well, ladled out water for drinking and splashed some on her face.
“Mornin’. Headin’ in to work?”
“Yep. Lots of visitors. Extra dinars. Might as
well take advantage while I can.”
“I hear ya.”
One of the two men
passing the well proceeded to the shop and unlocked the front door. Before he could close it, his first customer
appeared.
“Morning.”
“Uh, morning. You’re kinda early. Haven’t had a chance to set up yet.”
“S’all right. I can browse until you’re ready.”
“Well …. Sure.
Lookin’ for anything in particular?”
“Mm.” Xena noted the young man’s lanky frame. “I’ll know if I see it.”
“Yeah?” He went behind his counter. “You don’t strike me as the browsin’
type. Not that I mind.” He chuckled. “They usually find more than they came for.”
“I get that a lot,”
Xena drawled, sauntering around the shop.
“Must be the leather. I may be a
warrior, but I’m a woman too.”
The man appraised
his statuesque customer. “Uh huh. No mistaking that.”
“This your place?”
“Family
business. Pretty much fallen on me
since my brother left.”
“Big
responsibility. Nobody else to help
out?”
“Not lately.”
“Huh. Then it had to be you I saw? Last night?” Xena casually examined a bolt of fabric. “Using a key to the back door?”
The shopkeep turned
from straightening out a shelf. “What?”
“Bringing in bags
of inventory?”
His face
froze. “Listen, lady. Whatever you’re talkin’ about, you got the
wrong place. Maybe you best try next
door.”
Xena sauntered
toward the back. “That your
storeroom? Maybe it’s in there? What I’m looking for?”
“That’s far
enough.” The man picked up a
broom.
“Seriously?” Xena raised a wry brow. “You gonna sweep me out?”
“W-who are you?”
“A woman.” Xena bared her teeth. “Who happens to be a warrior.” She pulled out her breast dagger and began
picking the lock to the storeroom. “I
wouldn’t,” she growled, as she heard him coming up behind. He didn’t listen. A minute later, he sat propped against his counter, hands and
feet bound. A knock on the door
startled them.
“He’s not open
yet!”
“Xena? Is that you? It’s me. Gabrielle.”
Xena rolled her eyes. She cracked open the door. “I’m kinda busy here. Thought I told you to wait.”
“Gabrielle! I’ve been attacked by a madwoman! Quick!
Get help!”
“Xena? What the ….” Gabrielle pushed through.
“By the gods! Why did you –.”
“You would’ve
known. If you’d done like I
said.” Xena headed toward the back
again. “Think I’ve caught our wedding
thief.”
“Xeenaa. Why would he? You don’t know? That’s
Mathieu. He’s the one getting married.”
∞∞∞∞∞
Mathieu sat behind
his counter, eyes darting between the warrior who’d tied him up and the woman
who’d insisted on freeing him. His
explanations to them had colored his cheeks with shame, despite what he’d
believed to be pure motives and harmless execution. If only he hadn’t led Elysia to believe him more prosperous than
the truth. Yes, the shop provided a
decent living for him, but not the luxuries he’d imagined for his wife and
children. The extra hours he’d put in
barely filled the gap between reality and his dreams. Nor would the gifts he’d stupidly “borrowed” to sell and finish
paying for the gold ring he couldn’t afford to place on Elysia’s finger.
The first stage of
his “trial” had concluded better than he feared. His judges took into consideration he’d basically stolen what
would’ve been his anyway. Neither
seemed inclined to drag him to jail.
Unfortunately, his ultimate sentence might be worse – what Elysia and/or
his kinsmen might learn of his crime.
Xena had thus far expressed little beyond, “It was wrong. People have gotten leniency for much
worse. Can’t say I’m the best to pass
judgment on what he deserves.” Since
then he’d had to consult her deadpan expression during Gabrielle’s monologue
about his fate.
“This isn’t easy
for me either. We’re talking one of my
best friends. It’s hard getting past
the shock. And anger. How could he do such a thing? To the woman he professed to love? Just before her wedding, for Gaia’s’
sake. It’s supposed to be a joyous
occasion. A ritual celebrating
commitment. Honesty. Loyalty.
What does that say about respect for his betrothed? His concept of what union between two people
means?” Gabrielle paused to scowl at
Mathieu. “His character?” She resumed pacing.
“He claims he
wanted to do right by her. Didn’t want
to disappoint her. Sounds more like ego
to me. Somebody stuck on
appearances. Not willing to work at
substance. Maybe a sign of weak morals. Who knows if he’s done something like this
before? Will he take the easy way out
again?” She stopped in front of Xena. “You haven’t. You’ve admitted your faults.
Sucked it up. Let the chips fall
where they may. Well, yes, after
Hercules. A second chance.” Gabrielle perceived confirmation in a twitch
at the corner of Xena’s mouth.
“What’re you
saying? We should go easy on him? Don’t forget, you meant to protect your
home. It got twisted. You made mistakes. It’s not like you set out to ….” Gabrielle noted Xena’s raised brow. “Could be Mathieu didn’t either?” She studied the forlorn accused.
“Okay. I concede your point. Doesn’t have to mean he’s bad through and
through. Or might not benefit from a
reprieve. But everybody knows what you
did. You face them every day. That hasn’t made you stronger? More motivated to do better?” She nodded at Xena’s shrug. “Of course it has.”
Gabrielle folded
her arms. “And what about Elysia? It’s only fair he face her. Like you did your mother and village. For the pain you’d caused. The years of shame they suffered
through. Knowing what you’d done to
others reflected back on ….” Gabrielle
chewed her lip. “Punishment for them
too, huh? Mm. You’re right. Hadn’t
thought about that.” She
brightened. “But they forgave you. Accepted you again as one of their own. With pride for your quest of
atonement.” Sighing, she shook her
head. “I don’t know, Xena. I’m still not convinced.”
The warrior lifted
her hands in defeat. “Sorry. Not much else to say.” She rolled her tongue in her cheek. “Nothing you don’t already know.”
Gabrielle stared at
Xena. “The great warrior of worldly
experience and many skills? For once
out of ideas? You’re leaving it up to
me? The tagalong who can’t tell a
budding warlord from a cute date?”
“She’s your
friend.”
“Humph. We know how yours show loyalty and
affection. Whose definition – .”
“The one who
corrals poor unsuspecting strangers.
Should work well enough.” Xena
pursed her lips. “Assuming you stop talking long enough.”
∞∞∞∞∞
Gabrielle stood in
the doorway wistfully observing her former playmates. Struck by how little they seemed to have aged. Bigger replicas, personalities virtually
unchanged. Would they say the same
about her? Notice edges sharpened by
the deaths she’d shaken off? Shields in
eyes that had witnessed the horrors of greed and corruption? A heart callused from defending innocence
gone awry? Or see a familiar village
girl none the wiser for choosing the thorny path away from home? Not quite sure yet which version she
preferred, she began winding her way through the tables as unobtrusively as she
could.
“Gabrielle! Wondered where you’d gotten to.”
“Yeah, you’re
missing the fun. Over here. Cletus fancies himself a teller of tall
tales.”
“Hah, bet not as
good as Gabby.”
“Sorry, I can’t win
that bet for you. I don’t have
time.” Gabrielle searched the
room. “I need to see Elysia. Know where she is?”
“Eh, she
upstairs. Fussin’ with wedding doodads.
Borrrring. Stay with us. Don’t ya have more monsters and warlords
roamin’ around in that brain of yours?”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “If so, they’re quiet. Anxious to check out those … wedding
doodads.” With an airy wave, she headed
for the stairs. “Elysia?” She knocked on the door. “It’s Gabrielle. Can I come in?”
“Absolutely!”
Gabrielle entered
to find Elysia in her bridal gown. “Oh,
Elysia, you look beautiful.”
“Thank you. It was my mother’s. She was smaller than me.” Elysia smiled down at the seamstress
kneeling at her hem. “Fortunately all
the pastries I’ve eaten didn’t do too much damage.”
Gabrielle managed a
return smile. “Um, Elysia? Can we talk in private a moment? I don’t mean to delay you. It’s just …. I need to –.”
“Of course. Lela, would you mind? Finishing a little later?”
“Shouldn’t be a
problem. I’m almost done. A break wouldn’t hurt.” Lela grinned. “Especially with a mug of port for company.” She nodded to the visitor and left.
“So.” Elysia lowered herself carefully to the edge
of the bed. She indicated for Gabrielle
to join her. “What last words of wisdom
do you have for me?”
Gabrielle snorted
softly. “Actually, it’s more like
news. We found your gifts.”
Elysia’s breath
caught. “We?”
“Xena and I.”
Elysia studied her
friend. “That’s good, right? Shouldn’t you be dancing with joy?”
Gabrielle rubbed
her cheek, carefully considering her response.
“I guess it’s finally hitting me.
You’re all grown up. Taking a
big step into adulthood. New
responsibilities. Relationships. Selfish I guess, but it feels …
strange.” She looked at her hands. “Not sure where the old Gabrielle fits in.”
“Oh, Gabby.” Elysia squeezed her friend’s shoulder. “This doesn’t change our bond. I’ll be right here.” She chuckled. “You’re who we need to worry about. Leaving me behind.
Knowing where to find you.”
“Oooo.” Gabrielle winced. “I sure walked into that one, didn’t I?”
“Uh huh. No wonder Xena’s so protective.”
“Yeah. ‘Adventure’ has more pitfalls than I
imagined.” Gabrielle smiled. “But as satisfying as I ever dreamed.” She fiddled with the fringe of the
bedspread. “Out of curiosity, have you
thought about what you’d be doing? If
you hadn’t met Mathieu?”
“Would I be on a
stage in Athens? Acting and
singing? As opposed to earning my keep
entertaining at different functions around Portus?” Elysia snickered. “Not
all of us dreamed as big as you. Truly,
I pictured tomorrow. Life at someone
like Mathieu’s side. Knitting baby
clothes. Tending my garden. Know what I
didn’t picture?” she asked, tweaking Gabrielle’s nose. “Knitting with my mind wandering alongside a
friend who’s actually out there somewhere.
As usual, following her own mind.
The courage to take risks the rest of us talked about but never did like
you.”
Gabrielle shook her
head. “Not many risks bigger than
marriage. Do you really know what
you’ll find? Any more than you would
being on the road?”
Elysia smoothed the
fabric covering her knees. When she
looked up, it was with the maturity Gabrielle had wondered if others saw in
her.
“Mathieu isn’t
perfect. I know that. It’s rare we’re amused by the same
things. He can be reckless. Overbearing. I have my faults too.
Belittle without intending, so caught up in comparisons to everyone
else. But there’s something ….” She searched Gabrielle’s eyes, a plea in
her own. “We ‘get’ each other, you
know? Would do anything to overcome the
imperfections. To make each other
happy. If there’s something better out
there, I don’t care. If it’s
‘settling,’ I’m content with my choice.
Can you understand that?”
Gabrielle
nodded. “My folks think I’m nuts. Xena probably thinks I’m nuts. Everybody who sees us together thinks it’s a
mistake. Or a joke.” She shrugged. “In our own ways, we ‘get’ each other. At least in ways that matter. Who knows for how long. If
these early days aren’t a real test. I
follow along. She let’s me. Must be worth it to both of us to risk
whatever the future brings.” She gazed
at her friend, as though weighing the worth of something else. She swallowed. “What matters is, you’re sure in your heart. Who’m I not to support whatever the risk?”
Elysia leaned over
to hug Gabrielle. “See? Words of wisdom, my friend. Thank you.”
Gabrielle lowered
her head. “Time’ll tell if I deserve
thanks.” Sighing, she squared her
shoulders. “Well, I’ve ‘hi-jacked’ you
long enough. I’m glad we had the chance
to – .”
“I want to show you
something.” Elysia opened a drawer to
the nightstand. She took out a small
box and removed the lid.
Gabrielle peered
inside, puzzled by the contents. “Are
those …. Why …. I mean, shouldn’t Mathieu …um ….”
“I came across the
one he got. In his jacket pocket.”
“Does he know? That you’ve seen it?”
Elysia nodded. “I told him it was beautiful, but much too
expensive.”
“W-what did he
say?”
“The usual. ‘Nothing’s too good for my girl.’ Not to worry whether we could afford
it. He’d find a way.”
Gabrielle fiddled
with the fringe again. “His shop? Maybe business – .”
“It hasn’t been
that good for awhile.” Elysia smiled ruefully.
“I know how generous my friends are.
And competitive. Mathieu’s
bachelor quarters above the store are what you’d expect. The gifts would no doubt be a good start for
a couple to make a home.”
“Well, they’ve been
found. That’s good, right?”
“Mathieu took the
possible theft surprisingly well. I
asked him why. He said nothing was more
important than our wedding day. After
that, we’d make the best of whatever we had.”
Elysia snorted softly. “Like I
said, he can be impetuous. Bad at thinking
things through. Fortunately, not much
talent for deceit either.” She held
Gabrielle’s eyes. “Kinda like a
good-hearted friend of mine.”
Gabrielle’s
shoulders slumped. “Elysia, I am so
sorry. I should’ve – .”
“You did. It was the best gift of all.” Elysia wiped away a tear. “The chance to begin our journey
clean.”
“Really?”
“Really.” Elysia took a deep breath. “Will you be seeing Mathieu soon?”
“Um, I expect so.”
“Then I have
another favor to ask. Something I
didn’t take the chance to do myself.”
Elysia indicated the woven copper rings in the box she’d brought
out. “Mathieu made these. To seal our engagement. He assured me they were temporary. That I’d have gold on the ‘official’
day.” She handed the box to Gabrielle. “Please tell him I said these will always be
good enough for me. The gold one is
tarnished and should be returned. That
this is what’s most important for our wedding day. After, we can make do with whatever came before.”
∞∞∞∞∞
The sun was setting
when villagers came across the bags of gifts hidden behind trees near the road
in. Amidst the celebration, folks
heatedly conjectured about the mysterious disappearance. Most figured some stranger was the culprit,
somehow stymied before he could make his getaway. A few whispers involved a certain ex-warlord, conveniently around
when the gifts arrived, whereabouts unknown about the time they went
missing. That particular suspect
lounged outside the inn, her presumed innocent companion having rushed inside
for another chat with Elysia.
“I’m going as I
am,” Xena declared when Gabrielle finally breezed out.
“Excuse me?”
“No armor or
weapons. Other than that, you’re on
your own.”
“Xena, what are
you talking about?”
“The maid of
honor.” Tongue in cheek, Xena narrowed
her eyes at the garland of flowers perched on Gabrielle’s head. “She has to wear some fancy get up. Bystanders along the back wall can get away
with murder.” She grinned evilly. “Fashion-wise, in this case.”
“You mean this?”
Gabrielle asked, reaching up to pat the garland. “Yep, it’s for the maid of honor. Nice, huh?”
“Lovely.” Xena sauntered over to where she’d hitched
Argo. “Figured I’d stay at our campsite
tonight. Seeing as we went to the
trouble of making one. Don’t
worry. I’ll be on time for the wedding
tomorrow.” She snickered. “If only to appreciate your costume.”
Gabrielle gaped at
the warrior. “Wait up.” She walked up beside Argo and crooked her
head. “Seems to be missing something. Hmmm.”
She placed the garland between the mare’s ears. “What do you think?” Argo expressed her opinion by bucking her
head. “Too girly?” Gabrielle guessed,
catching the garland. “Well, you are a
warhorse.”
Xena glowered at
her companion. “Don’t you have somebody
else to practice on? One of Elysia’s
buddies? That blonde with the
attitude. Bet she pictures herself with
a crown.”
Gabrielle
chuckled. “Probably. But it’s mine. Only mine. Elysia
insisted I keep it.”
“Won’t keep the way
you’re playin’ with it. What’ll folks
say? You standing there with flowers
look like they’ve been trampled.”
“Nah. Elysia wanted me to have this as a
memento. Dried and pressed.” Gabrielle grinned smugly. “Since I won’t be standing in the wedding.”
Xena raised a
brow. “Exactly what’re you saying?”
Gabrielle glanced
at the inn. “I’ve had my fill of
excitement here.” She chuckled. “Certainly provided my share of it. Maybe the one ‘extra’ too many? For Elysia’s moment as the star
anyway.” She untied Argo’s reins and
tossed them to Xena. “Even her room was
kinda crowded. Think I’d prefer that
campsite for two.” She strutted toward
the road. “Coming?”
∞∞∞∞∞
Xena sat on a log,
sharpening her sword. Gabrielle lay on
her bedroll gazing at the stars.
“Think Mathieu
learned his lesson? He’ll do what
Elysia asked? Be satisfied accepting
she’s not so shallow about appearances?
Willing to change himself?”
“He seemed
chastened enough. I’d say it’s 50-50.”
Gabrielle rolled to
face the warrior. “She’s really
perceptive, you know. More than I gave
her credit for. Even gave me insights
about you.”
“Mm.”
“See, a lot of
folks might call you a cynic. A
pessimist. You know, always on the
lookout for the worst. Often expecting
it. Which is natural, considering the
types you deal with. Pfft. Live for.
To defeat, I mean. And you, um,
do tend to focus on the worst in yourself.
Would you agree?”
“Not something I
think about much.” Xena snickered. “Ask Argo.
Maybe she has an opinion.”
“Fine. I’ll talk to myself. I can count on an answer that way at
least.” Gabrielle flopped to her
back. “In my experience, that’s only
partly right. I told Elysia how you
also look for options. Weaknesses to
exploit. Strong points to take
advantage of. Alliances when
necessary. Creative solutions. Making something out of nothing. She said maybe ‘opportunist’ was a better
description. Got me thinking how
similar that is to an optimist.”
“Must have me mixed
up with you.” Xena pursed her
lips. “Only natural, with you doing the
talking.”
“Humph. And whose fault is that?” Gabrielle resumed her stargazing.
“Pessimists, cynics usually miss opportunities, since they’re not looking for
them. Isn’t that what your quest is
about? Possibilities? Otherwise it’s for naught. You have to believe you’ve changed. That you can keep getting better.”
“Can’t afford not
to.” Sighing, Xena put her pumice stone
away. “Look, I take things as they
are. Find what I need to survive. Call me a realist and leave it at
that.”
“Hmm. I suppose –.”
“You, on the other
hand try to make things as they could be.
Should be.” Xena began her
preparations for turning in. “You
thought it right Elysia and Mathieu be honest with each other. You opened up a way they could. You weighed the attention you got, that
should’ve been hers.” Xena
snorted. “Not to mention an ex-warlord,
suspected thief. Your absence allowed a
wedding free of drama or conspicuous … guests.”
“Assuming we scared
some sense into Mathieu.” Gabrielle was
silent a moment. “I can’t remember
feeling so knotted up inside. You know, about what was right? She was really grateful for what we
did. How we did it. Said some nice things about how she
appreciated me more than ever. Even why
I thought it best not to stand with her.
That’s when she changed her mind about you. Said maybe you were an optimist after all.” She faced Xena again. “Because you saw opportunity in me? For yourself?”
Xena had been
taking off her armor. She caught the
uncertainty in Gabrielle’s voice.
“Mm.” She looked her young
companion a moment, finally allowing a wry smile. “I wouldn’t disagree with that.”
“You wouldn’t?”
“That’s my
opinion.”
Beaming, Gabrielle
readjusted the carry bag she used as a pillow.
“This opportunity stuff? Kinda
interesting, huh?”
Xena snorted. “If ya
like knots,” she muttered.
“Hmmm? ‘Nots?’” Gabrielle rolled to her side,
intrigued. Happy for an excuse to prolong their chat. “What
kind of ‘nots.’ Choices we don’t
make? Actions we probably shouldn't –.”
“Nooo. Not ‘nots.’” Growling under her breath, the warrior stretched out on her
bedroll. “Knots. Like you make with rope.”
“Ohhhh. That kind of knot. As in the bonds between friends? Ties that even time or distance can’t
break?” Gabrielle grinned, pleasantly
surprised. “Why, Xena. Who would’ve thought you’d – .”
“As in used to tie
and gag chatterboxes who ought not be keeping me awake.”
“Oh. Right.
Okay.” Gabrielle giggled. “My lips are … knotted. Can I say goodnight first?”
“And last. Good night.”
Xena watched
Gabrielle snuggle into her furs, then gazed up at the sky. It was true – they did see opportunity in
each other. Staked their lives on it
every day. Had managed to muddle
through so far. Even thrive. Something she’d begun to count on as much as
her sword. Like mountains to scale,
evil to fight or those stars. An
improbable friend to share it all.
Aspects of her environment to take as is. The way things were.
Smiling, she closed her eyes.
Optimist, sloptimist – what difference did it make? The way she saw it, realism seemed to be
working for her better than anything else.