"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" Series
SCROLL IX: THE COUP DE GRACE OF THE CROWNED (The Final Scroll)
SUMMARY:
With Xena forgiven for her past crimes against the Amazon's and Gabrielle's queenhood restored, Xena and Gabrielle decide it might be time for them and Aurora to leave the village. After a bittersweet goodbye they, along with the other non native residents leave. But not long after they find a battlefield and notice that the dead are women from the village they had recently left. This leads Xena, Gabrielle and Aurora back to the secret village as they race to save it from a returning foe. With the stakes at an all time high, can Xena and Gabrielle face the odds one more time and save the village or will this become the end for them all?
NOTES:
-This is the 9th & final story in my
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series. Following :
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL I: THE NEW ORDER
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL II: THE GREAT CAMPAIGN WITHIN THE DOMAIN
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL III: MUTINY IN THE MONARCHY
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL IV: A FRUITFUL STATE OF SKEPTICISM
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL V: BLOODLINES
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL VI: AN ABOMINABLE ASCENSION
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL VII: SACRAMENTS FOR SUBSTANTIATION
"THE PRINCESS AND THE QUEEN" series
SCROLL VIII: CONQUERING A BYGONE ERA
So it's highly suggested you read those in order before this one if you haven't already. As this is a direct sequel and knowing the events and/or characters introduced in the previous stories are important for understanding the plot of this story.
___________________________________________________________
COUP DE GRACE =
An action or event that serves as the culmination of a bad or deteriorating situation.
CROWNED=
originating from or founded on the royal crown or its associated dignity, sovereignty, etc.:
___________________________________________________________
INTRO QUOTE:
"New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings."
___________________________________________________________
pt.1
A flood of rushing water cascaded over the high ledge as a lone figure sat perched, looking out at the scenery below. A gentle breeze swept through the air sending a slight rustling sound through the nearby trees. Though this wasn't the only sound the figure heard as they became aware of another sudden presence. Not moving to alert their unexpected visitor, the person kept their attention forward as they just listened and waited for their hidden visitor to make their move. Barely autoble footsteps could be heard coming their way from behind. Ever closer their stalker crept as they remained hidden amongst the trees and other foliage until finally stopping only a couple feet from their intended target. Remaining as silent as possible the hidden assailant became poised to strike. Then waiting for just the right moment, the stalker kept out from their cover and grabbed their prey. Before a single sound could be heard the person found a hand quickly covering their mouth as they were held in place and the assailant whispered in their ear.
?1
(Whisper) Come with me unless you want to go over this cliff.
The assailant's hostage got an arm free from their captor's grip and pulled the hand from their mouth.
?2
You try it and you'll be going right over with me.
?1
You're welcome to try. But I think we both know that won't happen.
?2
You wanna bet?
The figure slowly edged them both closer to the ledge and looked down at the water below as they began calculating the toss of their hostage. However despite quickly running out of earth to stand on, the captive remained calm and unintimidated as they pushed back to slow them down.
?2
I'm warming you right now, if you throw me into that water, I promise you that I won't be the only one here getting wet.
The captor chuckled as they leaned a little closer to their hostage's ear and whispered once again.
?1
(Whisper) Oh but what makes you think that I'm not already?
That comment was the last straw as laughter rang out and the captive stopped fighting causing their captor to stop as well.
GABRIELLE
(Laughing) You're unbelievable, you know that?
While still being held Gabrielle turned around as she looked at her "captor" who smiled and shrugged.
XENA
(Half Joking) What, it's a compliment. That's just what you do to me.
Gabrielle shook her head as she then kissed Xena and wrapped her arms around her.
GABRIELLE
I'm guessing Aurora is with Skyla and Clover right now.
XENA
Yeah, I had them keep an eye on her while I came looking for you.
The two separated as Xena looked out at the view of the village that this height of the waterfall offered for a moment.
XENA
What exactly have you been doing up here anyway?
Gabrielle shrugged as she too looked out at the village.
GABRIELLE
Nothing special, just taking in the view. This place always looks so beautiful, especially during spring.
XENA
Huh, I guess I don't really think about it anymore. We've been here so long I've kinda gotten used to it.
GABRIELLE
You know being around something for so long just means you're able to appreciate the finer details that would otherwise go unnoticed by more unfamiliar eyes.
Xena smiled as she looked at Gabrielle and understood exactly what she meant.
XENA
Yeah, I guess you have a point there.
As Xena thought about what Gabrielle had said she reminisced about just how much Gabrielle had changed since they had first come to the village. In fact, in a lot of ways they both had. Xena thought of how drastically different their lives looked now compared to when they had first arrived along with so much that had happened during their stay. From shortly after first arriving and needing to defend the village from a group of slavers and Gabrielle becoming a strong queen and fighter. And Xena learning that Gabrielle was capable of so much more than she ever could have thought. To stopping a civil war that was provoked by Ares and threatened to destroy the whole Amazon nation. Only to soon after be faced with the attempted murder of Gabriellle as Valassca who was thought to be a friend and ally as she led a rebellion to take Gabrielle's title of queen. To welcoming new women to the village and being given the unexpected gift of a child that was conceived of both Xena and Gabrielle with the help of the Amazon patron goddess Artemis for everything they had done for the Amazon people. Though the joys of raising a child soon turned into a parent's worst nightmare when their baby girl, Aurora was kidnapped by one of the new arrivals to the village as revenge for the death of her mother who was revealed to have been Valassca, along with another resident who was exiled from the village after being a part of Valassca's rebellion. Thankfully Xena and Gabrielle were able to rescue their child and bring her safely back home. However, the struggle to retrieve her had resulted in Gabrielle becoming severely injured. As her health declined and the time she left to live seeming to be running out, Gabrielle did what she felt was best for the Amazon people and granted her right of caste to Xena, making her the new queen of the Amazons. Though Xena didn't like the idea due to her dark history with the Amazons, she reluctantly accepted the position being that she found herself unable to decline what seemed to be Gabrielle's dying wish to know that the Amazons would be left in capable hands. Of which she felt belonged to Xena. Shortly after Xena was made queen, her new role took her away from Gabrielle's side as the help of the Amazon queen was requested to help save a number of other villages that had been falling prey to an enemy that was targeting the Amazons specifically. Though as Xena assisted a group of the women in finding the enemy that would be discovered to be a literal monster, the creature soon became only part of the problem as some from the other village recognized Xena from the time when she was known as the Conquerer and Destroyer Of Nations when she had betrayed and killed almost all of the northern Amazons. It was difficult, but through her heroic actions, Xena had ended up convincing them that she was no longer the person she once was. And in the end, when all seemed lost for Xena and the rest of the group, they managed to slay the creature and save everyone in the area. After returning to the village with a special mixture that was made from the near-immortal creature given to Xena as a way to thank her for saving them, which Xena then uses to restore Gabrielle to perfect health. It was a short time later that Xena and Gabrielle decided to both remain queens together, which led to plans for them finally getting married. However, like everything else in their lives, the road to being married was far from as simple of a task as one might assume. Due to unusual circumstances Amazon law dictated that if they wanted to be married and rule as co-queens together, they needed to endure it number of trials to prove their loyalty to not only the Amazon people but to one another as well. And though both Xena and Gabrielle agreed to take on the trials, tension soon rose between them as Gabrielle found herself secretly struggling with feelings of inadequacy and guilt over not being able to protect their daughter and getting injured and forcing Xena into a position that Gabrielle knew that she didn't want. With Gabrielle vowing to herself to become someone who didn't need to be saved and could protect the people she loved, she began acting differently, which didn't go unnoticed by Xena who became increasingly concerned and angered by Gabrielle's new behavior when she refused to explain the multiple changes that she was making to herself. With a strain on their relationship and their wedding hanging in the balance, the two decided to continue the trials which eventually led to Xena learning what Gabrielle was dealing with and helped remind her of just how much of a strong person she truly was. Once Gabrielle's self-confidence was restored, both she and Xena completed the trials as any issues between them were also solved. And once the trials were complete, the pair were married soon after in a beautiful Amazonian joining ceremony surrounded by both of their families and friends. All was good for Xena, Gabrielle, and their daughter as the two settled into married life within the village. But after almost a year after their wedding and both officially being queen, trouble arose once more when Alti appeared and seemed to set her sights on turning the village that Xena and Gabrielle had been calling home for a few years at that point against them. And once revealing Xena's previously unknown past crimes against the Amazons, it seemed as though Alti would succeed in doing just that when both Xena and Gabrielle were stripped of their status as queen and of being Amazons, leading to Gabrielle being exiled from the village with Aurora in the middle of a brutal winter and Xena imprisoned and sentenced to death. With time running out for not only Xena, but also Gabrielle, Aurora, and the rest of the village, they fought against the odds to save Xena from being executed and stop Alti from achieving her true goal involving the village that still remained unclear as the sorceress lost the control she had over the villagers and left after realizing she had failed in her plain. It was now the spring after those last events and things had long since gone back to normal with everyone being forgiven, Gabrielle again being queen, and Xena deciding it would be better for everyone if she wasn't. And now here they were on a beautiful spring day as the snow had long melted and gave way to the new beginnings that spring always brought. Xena sighed to herself as she found herself almost unable to believe everything that had happened in the few short years of she and Gabrielle living in the secret village. How so much could happen to such a small group of people in such a relatively short time was something that if she and Gabrielle hadn't gone through it themselves, Xena likely wouldn't have believed it. Although that seemed to be true for her and Gabrielle's lives just in general as she smiled to herself and was brought back to the present when she suddenly saw a hand waving in front of her face.
GABRIELLE
Helloooo Xenaaaa.
Xena blinked as she looked over at Gabrielle.
XENA
Huh?
GABRIELLE
You okay? You were kinda just standing here staring out into the distance for a while.
Xena smiled at Gabrielle.
XENA
Yeah, everythings fine. I guess I just got lost in my thoughts about everything that's happened here after what you said. Even after everything you're right, this place still looks physically the same as when we first arrived but yet everything about it feels so different from then.
GABRIELLE
I guess it would be more strange if after everything it didn't. After all we've been here for a long time.
XENA
Yeah, we sure have.
The two looked out at the scenery together for a bit longer before picking up Aurora from her babysitters and heading back to their house. The rest of the uneventful day went on as that night as Gabrielle slept, Xena found herself reminiscing a little more as she went back to when they had first decided to stay in the village. It was only supposed to be for a short time originally, but one thing had kept leading to another, and before they knew it a few years had gone by. And all though Xena didn't hold any ill feelings towards the women of the village for what happened due to Alti, she was beginning to feel as though it might be time for herself, Gabrielle, and Aurora to move on. After all their stay in the village was never intended to be permanent anyway. They both knew that from the beginning. But even still Xena sighed to herself as she wondered how Gabrielle would feel about them leaving. She really loved it there. And this village was the only home that Aurora had known. Not to mention what Gabrielle would think about them going back to life on the road with Aurora. True that the village provided a much more stable and safe environment to raise a child, but still Xena hadn't stayed in one place for this long since she was growing up in Amphipolis. And even then she'd always had a thirst to go out and see what layed beyond the small village. Xena chuckled to herself as she thought that for all their differences, both she and Gabrielle were oddly similar in that regard. Even if the paths they had taken couldn't have really been any more different. And since the need for something more than just a life in a village was something that Gabrielle could understand, then just maybe she would understand why Xena was beginning to feel as though it was time for them to leave their life in the secret village of the Sapphire Snow Owl Tribe behind.
TO BE CONTINUED...
Pt. 2
A ruckus could be heard as an epic chase was on. A much smaller target kept a steady distance between them and their pursuer. The target rounded a corner as the larger pursuer began to gain ground.
?1
You're not getting away from me.
The pursuer picked up speed and reached out to seize their target. Just as they got inches within reach their target abruptly changed course and headed straight for their pursuer who stopped and stood ready to pounce.
?1
I've got you now. Big mistake.
Undaunted, the small target charged their pursuer. As they got close the pursuer reached to grab them, but the target changed direction once more and the pursuer missed and turned as they scrambled to catch the target again as they ran by. The pursuer was so focused on their mission that they didn't notice the obstacle in the way as they turned and attempted to follow the target that was racing off. Taking a step the pursuer's foot got caught on something and with no time to recover the pursuer dropped to the ground in a heap with a loud crash. Laughter was then heard as the target continued running until they were cut off and snatched up by a new arrival on the scene.
?2
Where do you think you're going?
Laughter rang out as Xena kept a firm hold on the squirming toddler in her arms. She looked at her daughter and then at Gabrielle who was sprawled out on the floor after tripping over the table while chasing after the little girl. Gabrielle looked up as Xena shut the front door to the house and walked over to her with the still fidgeting Aurora in her arms as she smiled down at her.
XENA
Gabrielle, is there a reason why you're layed out on the floor and our daughter is running around the house bare naked?
GABRIELLE
I turn my back on her for one second before putting her in the bath and she just takes off.
Gabrielle untangled her foot from the table leg as she stood back up.
GABRIELLE
Well, I think we both know which one of us she takes after athletically.
Xena smiled at the little girl who had settled down as she playfully poked her belly, making Aurora giggle.
XENA
That's my girl. Now come on you little stinker, it's bath time.
After giving Aurora her bath, dinner and putting her to bed, Xena stood looking out their bedroom window into the night at the torch-lit village. Thinking about how she was going to bring up wanting to leave. She was pulled from her thoughts when she felt a pair of arms wrap around her midsection as someone pressed up against her back.
GABRIELLE
Hey, everything okay? You've been pretty quiet for most of the night.
XENA
Yeah, everything's fine.
Xena smiled as she turned and put her arms around Gabrielle.
XENA
I've just been thinking about something that's all.
GABRIELLE
What about?
Xena sighed as she thought of how to bring up the fact that she was considering them leaving the village. How would Gabrielle react?
XENA
Well...
Gabrielle could tell by Xena's pause that whatever she had on her mind, it must've been important and likely something that Gabrielle wouldn't like. Because while it wasn't something that she had done in a while, whenever Xena wouldn't give her a straight answer to something right away it typically meant that Xena trying to avoid making Gabrielle mad at her. Or was trying to protect her from something that she didn't want her to know too much about for her own safety. Though Xena had gotten better at not doing the last one since coming to the village. Which made Gabrielle think that Xena must've done or planned on doing something that she knew Gabrielle wouldn't be all that happy about. But even so, Xena always had her reasons for doing everything. So Gabrielle was willing to give her the benefit of the doubt and hear her out before jumping to conclusions. After all, whatever was on Xena's mind could've been something important.
GABRIELLE
What is it? You know that you can always talk to me about anything.
XENA
I know. I'm just not sure how much you're gonna like what I have to say.
GABRIELLE
Xena after everything we've been through together nothing you could ever have to say will ever change anything between us. So please just tell me and whatever it is we'll get through it together.
Xena smiled,
XENA
Okay. So I've been thinking about what you were saying about how long we've been here and everything that's happened during our stay. And...
Xena paused.
GABRIELLE
And?
XENA
Well, do you remember when we first decided to stay here?
Gabrielle smiled as she remembered just how happy she was when Xena had told her that they could stay in the village for a while. Gabrielle was sure that back then neither of them could've imagined that they would be where they were now. Years later still living in the village, married, and raising a child together. Things certainly had changed quite a bit since they first arrived. And for all the ups and downs they've been through during their stay in the village, Gabrielle knew that there wasn't anyone else that she would have rather gone through it with them Xena.
GABRIELLE
Of course, I remember. Though looking back after everything that's happened since it almost feels like another lifetime ago.
XENA
You can say that again. But..
Xena paused for a moment as she found the right way to tell Gabrielle about wanting to leave.
XENA
Gabrielle, do you remember what I said when we first decided to stay here, you know about it not being... permanent?
Gabrielle sighed as she finally understood why Xena appeared so nervous as she knew where the conversation was heading.
GABRIELLE
Oh, now I understand. You wanna leave, don't you?
XENA
Look I know you love it here and so do I. It's been a great place to raise Aurora.
It's just...
GABRIELLE
It's okay.
XENA
Gabrielle, I know you're disappointed but I... Wait did you say it's okay?
Gabrielle smiled.
XENA
Oh, I wasn't really expecting you to be so open to the thought of leaving.
Gabrielle shrugged.
GABRIELLE
Sure I love it here but you know that it doesn't matter where we are, as long as we're together. Like I've told you before Xena, to me home has never been a building or a specific place. That's why no matter where I am, as long as I'm with you, that's home to me.
Xena smiled.
XENA
So you're sure you're not upset about leaving?
GABRIELLE
Well I'm not gonna lie and say that I'm not gonna be sad to go, but I like you said earlier I knew that we would leave this village one day. So it's not like this is completely unexpected.
XENA
Even with Aurora? You know life on the road is gonna be a bit more difficult now that we'll have her to look after too.
GABRIELLE
Yeah, but I'm not worried.
(Joking) And besides, when has anything ever been easy for us anyway? So I'm sure we'll manage.
XENA
You have no idea how relieved I am to hear that you're okay with this.
Xena kissed Gabrielle as Gabrielle pulled out of her embrace.
GABRIELLE
So when were you planning on us leaving?
XENA
Couple days. You know give us time to pack up, say our goodbyes.
GABRIELLE
(Sighing) Everyone here is gonna be so disappointed when we tell them.
(Sad tone) I'm really gonna miss them.
Xena gave her a sad smile.
XENA
Yeah, me too.
Pt.3
SKYLA
Whaaat?
CLOVER
Are you serious?
FAUNA
You're not really leaving, are you?
Gabrielle finished chewing her food as she and Xena sat at the table in the mess hall with their usual group.
GABRIELLE
Yeah, we talked about it yesterday, and Xena and I decided that it might be time for us to move on.
IRIS
We're gonna miss not having you two and Aurora here.
FAUNA
Things around here definitely won't be the same without you guys. We're really gonna miss you.
It was the morning after Xena and Gabrielle had decided to leave the village as Xena held Aurora in her lap and sat quietly as she listened to their friend's disheartened reactions after having just broken the news of their plans to leave. Gabrielle gave a sad smile.
GABRIELLE
We're gonna miss all of you too.
Ephiny looked at Xena.
EPHINY
So when were you guys planning on heading out?
Xena shrugged.
XENA
Few days.
Ephiny fiddled with her spoon for a moment as she appeared to be thinking before speaking again.
EPHINY
Hmm, now that you mention it I think that might be a good idea. I never planned on staying here this long. I'm sure everyone back home is thinking I just decided to change tribes. Might be time to head back and see everyone there. Maybe I'll head out when you do.
SKYLA
Ephiny, not you too.
AMARICE
I guess I should probably go too then. It'll be smarter to not travel by myself later.
CLOVER
And there goes Amarice too.
Skyla looked at the last two remaining non-native residents of the village being Willow and Cora.
SKYLA
Let me guess next the both of you are gonna say that you're leaving now too.
Cora and Willow looked at each other for a moment as Willow shrugged in indifference.
CORA
I guess I have been feeling kind of homesick lately. And besides we were originally brought here to expand this village's horizons. Which I think we did. And we learned a lot from everyone here too. But our stay was never intended to go on this long. In fact, if I'm remembering correctly I think it was only supposed to be for a year, two at the most. So we're well overdue to return home.
WILLOW
Huh, I guess you're right.
Gabrielle chuckled.
GABRIELLE
I guess this village just has that effect on people.
XENA
(Joking/ Ominous tone) Maybe that's the point. And once they get cha here and before you know it you completely forget that you can even leave.
Gabrielle nudged Xena in her side from the terrible joke as she laughed.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) You know now that I think about it, it might be a good thing that we're leaving. I think you've been hanging around Ephiny too long. You're starting to catch her bad sense of humor.
XENA
(Joking) Oh come on Gabrielle it wasn't "that" bad.
Ephiny gave both Xena and Gabrielle an unhappy look.
EPHINY
(Flat tone) You two do realize I'm still sitting here right?
Xena smirked at her and shrugged as Skyla let out a slightly frustrated scoff and shot Xena and Gabrielle a semi-serious look of disapproval.
SKYLA
(Half joking) You see what you two started? Now everyone's leaving.
Clover sighed.
CLOVER
This is my fault.
GABRIELLE
What? No. Why would you even think that?
CLOVER
It's because of what happened with us turning against you guys. We banished you and Aurora from the village in the middle of winter and nearly executed Xena. Why would anyone in their right mind want to stay somewhere after enduring something like that at the hands of the people who were supposed to care about them?
The others looked at Clover and figured that she must've been right. After all, why would anyone want to stay someplace where the people had tried to kill them in one way or another? Because while it wasn't direct, they all knew that sending Gabrielle and Aurora out in the middle of such a brutal winter was essentially as much of a death sentence as what they planned on doing to Xena. While it had all worked out in the end, and both Xena and Gabrielle had said they didn't hold what happened against them, even if that was true, it still didn't mean that they wanted to keep living in the same village as the people who had turned their backs on them and nearly destroyed their whole family. Not that anyone could blame them.
GABRIELLE
No, trust me this has nothing to do with that. We still love it here and you guys will always be our friends. All of what happened was Alti's fault. And honestly a little bit of mine for naming Xena queen in the first place knowing her history with the Amazons.
Gabrielle stopped Xena from defending her actions like she already knew she would.
GABRIELLE
But that being said we all made mistakes and did what we thought was in the best interest of the Amazons at the time. In the end, everything worked out so there's no need to worry. We really don't hold any anger towards anyone here.
Xena smiled.
XENA
And you can believe her when she says that. Gabrielle's never really been one to hold grudges. And I can't exactly hold what happened against you guys either. Given that you've all been able to look past the things I've done to your people.
CLOVER
That's a relief to hear.
SKYLA
Even if we still don't like the idea of you leaving.
the group moved to other topics of conversation before finishing breakfast and carrying on with their day.
GABRIELLE
Is that everything?
Xena looked around for a moment before checking their packs.
XENA
Uh... Yup looks like that's all of it.
Gabrielle walked over and sat on the edge of the bed.
GABRIELLE
(Half joking) Well, I'm definitely gonna miss sleeping on something comfortable. Gotta stay going back to sleeping on the hard ground is not something I'm looking forward to.
XENA
I know what you mean, I might be in trouble too. I think I've gotten much too used to sleeping in an actual bed.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) Uh-oh, great warrior princess, you're not going soft on me, are you?
Xena raised her eyebrow.
XENA
(Joking) Careful Gabrielle that kind of talk makes you sound like some of those guys we know from my warlord days, or Ares.
Gabrielle cringed at the thought of the God of war and all the trouble he had caused for them even through the years. Even though he'd been gone from their lives since the great Amazon war thanks to Artemis.
GABRIELLE
Oh god's no. Never mind forget I said anything. The last thing I wanna do is sound anything like Ares.
Xena laughed as she placed their packs in the corner until morning.
XENA
Oh don't worry, I don't foresee that becoming a problem.
She walked back over near Gabrielle as she began getting ready for bed.
XENA
Well anyway, we should probably make it an early night. It'll be better to get an early start tomorrow.
Gabrielle stood as she also began getting undressed.
GABRIELLE
So do you have any plans for where we're heading after we leave?
XENA
Actually I was thinking about paying mother a visit. It's been a while and I'm sure she's dying to see her granddaughter.
Gabrielle smiled.
GABRIELLE
I'd like that. It'll be good to see Cyrene again.
XENA
I had a feeling you'd like that idea.
Gabrielle finished pulling off her clothes and noticed Xena giving her body a good look over from where she now layed on their bed.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) Don't you see this enough for you to not start feeling all frisky over it?
Xena smiled.
XENA
Gabrielle we could grow to be a couple of old crones and I would still find you incredibly unbelievably attractive. Both inside and out.
Gabrielle smiled as she shook her head in mock disbelief, knowing full well that it was true for both Xena as well as herself as she got into bed with her. After all their attraction and love for one another went so far beyond just the physical. Gabrielle had oddly enough often explained what the two felt for one another as something that simply couldn't be explained. Because if you thought about it the two were so drastically different in so many ways that it seemed to defy all logic and reasoning that a relatively sheltered, wide-eyed, enthusiastic young woman from a small farming village, and a somewhat moody, reformed ex-warlord with a dark and bloody past on a quest for redemption would even become friends, let alone fall for one another. But yet there they were. Having been together romantically for years at that point, married and raising a child together. With both knowing without a doubt that this was the way it would stay for the rest of their lives and on to eternity. Gabrielle leaned close and softly kissed Xena.
GABRIELLE
I love you, Xena.
XENA
I love you too Gabrielle. Always.
Xena smiled as she began lightly running her fingertips up and down Gabrielle's arm.
XENA
(Alluring tone) You knooow... given that you mentioned that this is probably our last night getting to sleep in a bed for a while, I was thinking maybe we should make sure that we fully enjoy our last night of having one.
GABRIELLE
(Teasing tone) Oh were you?
Gabrielle smiled knowing full well what was on Xena's mind but decided to have a little fun teasing her first.
GABRIELLE
I couldn't agree with you more.
Gabrielle leaned in and gently kissed Xena before turning over and laying down so her back was facing her.
GABRIELLE
So we should probably get to sleep now, so we're well rested for tomorrow.
Xena sighed to herself in disappointment as she fought to ignore the building yearning between her legs and got in a comfortable position to go to sleep.
XENA
(Lying) Yup, that's exactly what I meant.
GABRIELLE
Goodnight Xena.
XENA
Night.
After a few moments, Xena closed her eyes where shortly after she felt a familiar hand beginning to roam across her skin. Not opening her eyes right away, she smiled as she enjoyed the gentle caressing.
XENA
(Joking) You can be a real tease at times you know that?
GABRIELLE
(Teasing/ Lying) Who, me? I swear I don't know what you're talking about.
Xena opened her eyes and saw Gabrielle now facing her, with her head propped up in one hand as she smiled and continued lightly tracing her fingertips along Xena's body. Xena smirked.
XENA
(Joking) Mm, I'm sure you don't. Now get over here you.
Xena quickly grabbed Gabrielle and pulled her on top of her as they both laughed and lightly kissed a few times before those kisses turned more passionate and heated letting their hands and lips find their way to various places on one another. After a few moments, Xena then rolled them both over before she rose to her knees, straddling Gabrielle's waist, and pulled off her nightshirt, tossing it to the floor before leaning down and kissing Gabrielle several more times as she felt Gabrielle's hands trail up her stomach as they find their way to her breasts and began to mold them in her gentle grasp. Xena moaned as she felt the need within her nether region becoming more abundant. She then pulled back from Gabrielle's touch as she began lifting Gabrielle's nightgown as Gabrielle sat up and raised her arms over her head as her clothing immediately followed and was discarded to wherever it was tossed across the room to be found in the morning along with the rest of their current clothing that quickly found itself being removed before Xena layed herself over Gabrielle as their lips met for another deep kiss. After several moments Xena pulled from Gabrielle's lips as she got to her knees and staredled one of Gabrielle's thighs, pressing their center's together. Gabrielle let out an enjoyable sigh as she felt Xena's femininity meet hers. Xena slowly began to rock against her and Gabrielle sighed Xena's name as she felt the beginnings of the always pleasurable friction between them. As she moved Xena placed one hand on the bed and slid the other under Gabrielle's hips as she pulled and held Gabrielle tighter against her. The two let out rasps and moans of enjoyment as Xena continued to drive herself against Gabrielle. Gabrielle grabbed at the sheet beneath her as Xena rocked against her, both feeling the slow-building sensation within their depths fueling the already vigorous hunger that they were feeling for one another even further. Xena kept a steady rhythm as she repeatedly thrust against Gabrielle, each of their womanhood's starting to feel the beginnings of a building orgasm as they groaned in bliss. Gabrielle moaned Xena's name and urged her not to stop as she felt her climax approaching. Xena bucked harder as she also felt her high stampeding ever closer. She pressed harder against Gabrielle and drove her hips forward with more vigor. Each thrust sending them both careening towards their finish. The room became filled with their moans of all-consuming passion as only moments later Xena thrust hard once more before letting out a euphoric cry as she felt a powerful orgasm overtake her. She felt her core spasm in orgasm as she reflexively bucked against Gabrielle with every jolt that coursed through her. After a few moments, Xena felt her climax begin to subside as she caught her breath and lifted herself off of Gabrielle as she got to her hands and knees and shared a couple of passionate kisses with Gabrielle, before guiding her lips down Gabrielle's neck, chest and midsection as she inched further down the bed before laying on her stomach between Gabrielle's legs. Xena slid her hands under Gabrielle who bent her knees and parted her legs further, giving Xena clear access to the object of her desire. Xena ran her finger along Gabrielle's feminine treasure a couple of times as Gabrielle breathed deeply feeling her need for release becoming more urgent. Which was something that she made known by the pleading tone in her voice as she said Xena's name. Xena smiled as kissed the inside of Gabrielle's thigh. Which led to another closer planted closer to Gabriellle's point of need, and then another. This continued as only a few seconds later Gabrielle felt Xena's mouth come in contact with her center. Xena let the tip of her tongue lightly graze against Gabrielle's femininity as she moved it along her opening. Gabrielle whimpered in need as she tried to push Xena against her and Xena got the hint not to tease and sunk her tongue into her. Xena immediately began probing Gabrielle's opening as Gabrielle gasped. She felt Xena's tongue sweeping up and down her center. And each time Xena would pass over Gabrielle's little bud, she would linger just long enough to give it a little extra flick of her tongue causing Gabrielle to shutter. This went on for a bit as Gabrielle felt her orgasm building. She clung to the covers as Xena feasted on her. Pushing her ever closer to her peak. Knowing that Gabrielle was nearing her release, Xena moved her lips around the stimulated clit and proceeded to vigorously suck the little nub as just moments later, she felt Gabrielle arch and stiffen as a fierce orgasm overtook her. She let out a cry of pure ecstasy as her body shuttered in climax. Xena kept her mouth in place as Gabrielle rode out her high, and as she began to calm down Xena took her mouth away as she lightly ran her tongue over the sensitive little bud a couple of times causing Gabrielle to jump slightly as her netherlands still being affected by the aftershocks of her high. After a few more gentle passovers with her tongue, Xena smiled as she left Gabrielle's womanhood and crawled up to share a few loving kisses with her before settling down beside her as she pulled the covers over them as the two snuggled up and got comfortable as before long began to drift off to sleep.
XENA
Goodnight Gabrielle, I love you.
GABRIELLE
I love you too.
As they fell asleep in one another's embrace, morning came all too soon as they were soon standing at the village entrance with Aurora and both of their horses loaded up with their things. Ephiny, America, Cora, and Willow also had their things packed and loaded onto their horses as well as the five of them stood surrounded by the women of the village with their friends right in front. Skyla sniffled as she tried to fight back her tears but failed miserably.
SKYLA
(Sad tone) You guys better not just leave here and forget about us or I'm gonna be really upset.
Clover looked at her.
CLOVER
(Sarcasm) Right because this is you happy.
Skyla nudged Clover in her side as Gabrielle gave a sad smile.
GABRIELLE
Never. And I can't say when but I promise we'll come back and see you guys.
Gabrielle and Skyla hugged.
SKYLA
You better.
They separated as both Gabrielle and Skyla wiped the tears from their eyes.
SKYLA
You make sure you keep an eye on that warrior of yours your highness. You know how much trouble they can get into.
(Joking) Especially a certain warrior princess who shall remain nameless for my own safety.
Xena rolled her eyes as Skyla looked her way for a moment and winked jokingly. Gabrielle smiled as Skyla returned her attention to her.
GABRIELLE
We both know when it comes to Xena that's much easier said than done, but I always try. Take care of yourself Skyla I'm gonna miss you.
SKYLA
Same here Gabrielle.
They gave a sad smile to one another as Skyla looked at Xena.
SKYLA
I'm gonna miss you too Xena.
Xena smiled sadly.
XENA
Ditto.
Clover stepped forward next as she put her arm out towards Xena who took it in the traditional warrior's handshake.
CLOVER
(Half joking) It's not gonna be the same around here without you kicking everyone's ass's all the time.
Xena smirked.
XENA
(Joking) Guess that'll be your job now, won't it?
Clover smiled as they gave each other a quick half hug.
CLOVER
You and Gabrielle take care of yourselves and Aurora okay?
XENA
We will. You and Skyla make sure to do the same.
They both stepped back from the brief embrace as they put on a tough front of not being upset about Xena and Gabrielle leaving as Skyla and Gabrielle looked at each other and smiled.
GABRIELLE/ SKYLA
Warriors.
Next Iris and Fauna stepped forward to say their goodbyes to their dear friends.
IRIS
Gabrielle, Xena it's been such a wonderful experience to have you in our home. As crazy as things might've gotten at times I'm so glad that came here. You'll both always hold a special place in my heart. I'll miss both of you and Aurora very much.
She hugged both of them so they each said their goodbyes to her.
GABRIELLE
I'll miss you too Iris.
XENA
We'll see you again, take care.
FAUNA
Gabrielle thank you for being such a wonderful queen and an even better friend.
Fauna and Gabrielle embraced.
GABRIELLE
Thanks. I'm so glad I got to know you Fauna.
Fauna then moved on to Xena.
FAUNA
Even without being an actual Amazon, you've done so much for us Xena, I can never thank you or Gabrielle enough for everything you've done for us. And I'm happy to call you my friend.
XENA
Same here.
The native villagers also said their goodbyes to Ephiny, Amarice, Core, and Willow as the last two also bid farewell to Amarice and Ephiny before turning their attention to Xena and Gabrielle.
WILLOW
I guess this is goodbye, isn't it? Hopefully, we'll meet up again sometime.
GABRIELLE
I'm sure we will someday.
XENA
Maybe we'll come find you're village and visit some day.
WILLOW
I'd like that.
Cora then stepped forward and hugged Gabrielle.
CORA
Bye Gabrielle, you, Xena, and Aurora stay safe okay... or as safe as you guys can be anyway.
GABRIELLE
We'll try. Though I'm sure you know that we can't make any promises about that one.
Cora then moved on to Xena.
CORA
Make sure you and Gabrielle stay honest with and take care of one another. What the two of you share really is something incredibly special.
XENA
Oh, believe me, I know. But thanks. It was good to meet and get to know you, Cora.
Once all of the tearful and bittersweet goodbyes had been said Ephiny Amarice, Core, and Willow mounted their horses as the last of their villager friends finished dotting on Aurora as the little girl soaked up the attention, smiled, and giggled as she always did. No longer in her Amazon attire and opting not to return to her green top and brown skirt and instead wearing the reddish top and skirt she'd gotten a while ago Gabrielle got up into Arrian's saddle. She reached out as Xena lifted Aurora up to her and Gabrielle settled their daughter in front of her and made sure she was secure. After making sure Gabrielle, Aurora, and half of their packs were all set, Xena took a few steps to Argo and gave the stuff on her saddle one last check. Satisfied that everything was good, Xena mounted her mare as she and Gabrielle looked out at the villagers as they gave one more farewell before turning towards the open secret passage within the waterfall as Ephiny, Amarice, Cora and Willow followed them out with the residents of the village calling after them as they sent the group off with Amazonian cheats and singing. Once outside the village's protective barriers and the guards closed the entrance behind them the group split up and went their separate ways with Cora and Willow heading back to their home village and Ephiny and Amarice doing the same after saying goodbye to Xena and Gabrielle. With Gabrielle giving Epiny her standard temporary seat as queen until Gabrielle returned to the Amazons as they made promises of hopefully seeing them again soon. And so after watching the others leave making it just the two of them and Aurora, Xena, and Gabrielle looked back at the waterfall for a moment before looking at one another smiling and riding off as they left the secret village of the Sapphire Snow Owl Tribe behind and onward towards wherever the road would take them next. Unaware that the road would unexpectedly lead them back to the village much sooner than they could have expected. With a reunion between them and the residents being anything but a joyful experience.
Pt.4
The day was a calm one and Gabrielle had just finished putting the last of her, Xena, and Aurora's things away as they packed up the camp she and Xena had made the night before. It had been a little over a month or so since they had left the secret village and even with Aurora to care for, she and Xena were settling back into the groove of life on the road without any problems. Well other than them missing the comforts of sleeping in a comfortable bed instead of one a couple of blankets spread out on the ground. But such was just a part of the life they chose so neither complained... too much.
XENA
Gabrielle breakfast is ready.
Gabrielle walked over to the campfire and sat down as Xena handed her a plate of food. The two ate and idly talked as they kept a watchful eye on Aurora who had already eaten and was wandering around the campsite, exploring her new surroundings.
GABRIELLE
What's the plan for today?
Xena shrugged as she chewed a bit of her food.
XENA
We're still at least about a week out from Amphipolis, but I think there's a city not far east of here that's having its annual festival to celebrate the coming of spring. I've never been but I've heard it's supposed to be quite the celebration. You know lots of food, drink, music. Seems like something you might like.
Gabrielle smiled.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) Meaning you wanna go and are just using me as an excuse to save face of your tough warrior princess persona.
XENA
(Lying) I don't know what you're talking about.
But fine if you don't wanna go...
GABRIELLE
Now hold on I never said that.
Xena smiled as the two finished their breakfast and put away the rest of their things before scooping up Aurora from her wandering and casually riding off toward the city that Xena had mentioned. They rode for a while and soon found themselves on a large hill overlooking a lush, green valley. Normally a view like that would have been quite a sight, except for this valley showed clear signs of a battle having taken place there.
GABRIELLE
Should we go and check for any survivors that might need help?
Xena studied the area from their vantage point to check for any fighting that might still be going on. Not wanting to drag Aurora into the middle of a battle if they didn't have to. Not sensing anything she made her decision.
XENA
Alright, let's check it out. Just make sure to stay on alert. We don't know what's going on.
Knowing Xena's apprehension was mostly geared towards Aurora, Gabrielle understood her need for the warning. And would have been fine with staying back with the little girl while Xena investigated if it was thought to be too dangerous.
GABRIELLE
I know.
The two slowly rode towards the carnage. But when they reached the first group of the fallen Gabrielle felt her heart sink when she recognized a number of the dead.
GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) Oh gods, Xena, some of the people here, they're...
Gabrielle couldn't bring herself to finish her sentence as Xena understood and shared her heartbreak as they stopped their horses and looked around at the blood and corpses that now surrounded them.
XENA
Quick, I'll grab our medical supplies and we'll look for any survivors.
Quickly the two did just that as Gabrielle held Aurora and carefully stepped over the bodies that littered the ground. While many of them were just nameless faces to her, a good amount of the others were not. And though Gabrielle had grown accustomed to the aftermath of battle, the fact that she recognized so many of the victims of this one gave her the grim reminder of just how cruel and unforgiving their world could truly be. She continued to move through the area until she heard a groan and looked in the direction of the sound before spotting someone pushing themselves up to a sitting position against a large rock. Gabrielle hurried over and crouched down in front of them.
GABRIELLE
Clover.
Clover winced in pain as she held her hand over a bleeding wound on her stomach before registering that Gabrielle was there as she tried to shake off the groggyness she had been feeling after also suffering a hard blow to the head aside from the obvious stab wound.
CLOVER
(Weak tone) Gabrielle... What are you... doing here?.. The others... they...
Gabrielle could tell that Clover was in pretty bad condition and needed help fast.
GABRIELLE
It'll be okay Clover. Just try and relax for now.
She turned and looked for where Xena had gone and spotted her not far examining another fallen victim of the apparent battle.
GABRIELLE
Xena! Over here, hurry.
Hearing Gabrielle call her, Xena rushed over and was disheartened when she saw Clover and the state she was in. Xena got down and immediately began looking over her multiple injuries.
GABRIELLE
Please tell me she's gonna be okay?
XENA
I'm not sure yet. The wound to her stomach is pretty deep and it looks like she's already lost quite a bit of blood.
Gabrielle shook her head in disbelief and sadness.
GABRIELLE
This can't be happening.
As Xena put her focus on trying to save Clover, she had Gabrielle take Aurora and look for any more survivors and do what she could for them until Xena was done there. After gently laying Clover down, Xena began her task of stitching up the large gash in her stomach. As she worked, Xena questioned Clover about what happened. Both to get information on how her friend and the other villagers there had ended up in this situation and to keep Clover focused on something to take her mind off the pain and keep her awake. Knowing from how she was acting Clover also likely had suffered a concussion and needed to be kept conscious for a while or she risked falling into a coma or even death. Despite the circumstances, Xena attempted to keep the conversation light to try and keep Clover calm as she worked.
XENA
You know this is not the reunion I had in mind when we saw you again.
Clover tried to ignore her pain as she managed to smirk a little.
CLOVER
(Weak tone/ joking) What were you expecting... a celebration or something?
XENA
(Joking) Well, you Amazons do always love any excuse to throw a party.
Clover chuckled slightly before wincing again.
CLOVER
(Weak tone/ half joking) Come on Xena don't... make me laugh right now, I'm in enough pain as it is already.
The two fell silent for a moment as Xena worked before getting to the topic that Xena actually wanted to discuss.
XENA
Clover, what happened here? What are so many of you doing so far from the village?
CLOVER
(Weak tone) Not long after you guys left a number of our scouts spotted... what seemed to be a large army heading in the direction of the village. So as we normally do we... just kept a quiet eye on them from... a distance as we waited for them to move on.
Xena sighed as she started to get a feeling of what happened.
XENA
Only this time they didn't.
CLOVER
(Weak tone) No. And soon... we realized that the army wasn't just moving through the area by coincidence. They were... intentionally heading... for the village. So a bunch of us... headed out to try... and cut them off but.... well you can see the results of that... for yourselves.
Clover motioned to the carnage around them as Xena took stock of the situation. It was then that Gabrielle came back over to them with Aurora. Xena gave her a questioning look to ask what she found and with the sad expression she saw in Gabrielle's eyes in response, she already knew that she hadn't found any other survivors without Gabrielle saying anything. Catching their reactions, Clover angrily pounded her fist against the ground. Knowing that she was the only one of the group left.
CLOVER
(Angry/ sad tone) Damn it! Why?!
Gabrielle placed a comforting hand on Clover's arm.
XENA
We're sorry, Clover.
After a moment Clover calmed down as Gabrielle and Xena continued to try piecing together exactly what had taken place involving the village since they had left.
GABRIELLE
But I don't understand, how did they even know about the village to begin with? Neither Xena nor myself had mentioned it to anyone. And I don't see the others that left telling people about the village either.
CLOVER
(Weak tone) I know. No one thinks... that's what happened. But honestly... we have no idea how we were found. Or what they're after.
XENA
Well, it's obviously nothing good.
Xena walked a few steps away as she took one last look over the battlefield. So many people she and Gabrielle knew layed dead in that field. But that wasn't the only thing about the scene that bothered her. It was their obvious opponent's. She couldn't quite put her finger on it, but something about the state of the enemy's bodies bothered Xena. Upon expecting Xena noticed that they appeared to be much paler than the slain Amazon's. This seemed very odd, even taking into account variation in skin tones and the natural paling of the skin after blood loss and death, it didn't make sense for this to be the case for all of the enemies to appear the same way.
GABRIELLE
Xena shouldn't we get Clover back to the...
Gabrielle paused as saw the perplexed expression on Xena's face when she walked over to her with Aurora in her arms.
GABRIELLE
What is it?
Xena looked at her.
XENA
I'm not sure. Something about the state of the dead enemies doesn't feel right.
GABRIELLE
What do you mean?
XENA
The colorations of their skin compared to the Amazons seems strange. I'm not sure what it is, but something about all of this just feels off. And I intend to get to the bottom of it.
With that Xena turned around and headed back over to Clover.
XENA
Come on Gabrielle. I'm getting Clover and then we're going back to that village to get to the bottom of whatever's going on.
And so after helping the injured Clover into Argo's saddle, Xena got up behind her as Gabrielle kept Aurora with her as she mounted Arrian and the four headed back towards the secret village that according to Clover might not be so secret anymore. Which if true, lead to a multitude of questions and dangers. But just how dangerous would soon be revealed as Xena, Gabrielle and everyone else involved on their side would soon come face to face with the biggest threat to the secret village that had ever been seen.