SUMMARY:
After escaping from the slavers who've taken her and others from her village, Gabrielle finds her way to camp belonging to Xena, the dreaded Conqueror who's on a path to take over all of Greece. When Gabrielle is forcefully taken along with the Conqueror, a series of unexpected events will become the spark that will unknowingly completely change the course of both women's lives.
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NOTES:
This is my first attempt at doing a Conqueror Story. While I typically don't read too many of them, they're just not usually my style as I prefer to read about Xena in all of her heroic glory. (Yes, I know her evil past is an integral part of her overall character.) That being said, I have read a few that I liked quite a bit.
Anyway, this is my go at a Conqueror Story, so I hope you like it.
STORY NOTE:
This is my first attempt at doing a Conqueror Story. While I typically don't read too many of them, they're just not usually my style as I prefer to read about Xena in all of her heroic glory. (Yes, I know her evil past is an integral part of her overall character.) That being said, I have read a few that I liked quite a bit.
Anyway, this is my go at a Conqueror Story, so I hope you like it.
SPECIAL MENTION:
I have to give a very special shout out and thanks to "K.J. Boca" for being my first ever beta reader and helping me to correct my garbage spelling and grammer that apparently even spellchecker couldn't fix. 😆 Thanks for taking the time and effort to read through this and for always having such wonderfuly kind things to say about my work. I can't tell you how much I truly appreciate you for that. THANK YOU. YOU'RE AWSOME! 😃
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WARNING:
This story will contain some rather dark and mature subject matter that may not be suitable for all readers so please be advised before reading on that this story does include descriptive and graphic acts of violence, explict sex between women, explicit language, alcohol use, minor alcohol abuse, a brief reference to a rape that happens "off screen" but is not described. And a very uncomfortable and tense scene that at first comes off as an attempted sexual assault.
So if you find any of the above subject matter too offensive and don't wish to read about such things then this particular story may not be for you. And to those of you who do choose to read on, thank you and I hope you enjoy the story.
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TAG LINE:
Because Love Conquers All
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Pt.1
Hooves trampled the earth at a steady pace as a number of riders on horseback moved across the remnants of the still smoldering battlefield. The smell of smoke and death hung in the air. They passed by the many bodies that littered the ground around them, both enemy and ally. Not too far separated from the bulk of the group was a lone rider at the lead. The ride was uncomfortably silent for some time before one of the men riding gave another riding beside him a look before signaling ahead with his eyes. The other man sighed as he looked behind him for a moment to see a lot of dejected and hollow faces. Shaking his head, the man then returned his attention forward. He let out another sigh before straightening the slightly slouched posture he'd been riding with, and with a quick nudge with his boots to the sides of his horse, the stallion picked up a little speed as the man caught up to the horse at the head of the group.
?
Um, if I may my...
The man received an ice-cold glare at his approach. The look itself was nearly enough for him to fall right back with the others, as he stopped speaking mid-sentence for the momentary debate of whether or not to continue. But in the end the decision was made to remain beside the imposing figure of whom he could practically feel the rage radiating from as he silently questioned his own sanity before clearing his throat and masking his extreme nervousness before continuing to speak.
?
If I may, my lord, a number of the men were wondering if it would be possible for us to make a stop to rest soon. It has been a long few days. Everyone's tired, and we have multiple wounded who can't travel for such distances without aggravating their injuries further, so we were thinking that it might be better if...
The man stopped speaking and brought his horse to an abrupt halt as he quickly found a long blade pressed up against his throat. He tilted his head back slightly in an attempt to relieve the pressure, though it wasn't much help as he swallowed nervously and with just his eyes looked at the person beside him who held the blade.
?
(Irritated tone) It would be better for you, Leonidas if you shut up.
The man remained still as he felt the blade press a little closer into his neck but stopping before placing enough pressure to draw blood.
LEONIDAS
Yes my lord.
After a moment, the blade was taken away from the man's throat and returned to its sheathe as Leonidas rubbed his neck and the leader of their group continued on.
?
We'll get out of these woods and set up camp in the fields that aren't far from here.
LEONIDAS
Very well, my lord. I'll inform the others.
Getting no further response, Leonidas slowed down his steed as he fell back in with the rest of the group, as everyone carried on riding quietly for a while longer.
?
Okay, we can do this one of two ways.
A tall man, dressed in dark clothing, stood before a group of frightened villagers.
?
You can give us the girls and go back to those hovels you call homes...
He smiled an evil grin.
?
Or we can hack you all into little pieces and take the girls anyway. Either way, I get to have some fun.
He looked at the frightened group before seeing a young woman with brown hair that caught his eye.
?
You.
He grabbed the young woman by her arm and pulled her from the group.
YOUNG WOMAN 1
No, let me go!
She struggled against his tight grip, fighting to free herself as another young woman pushed herself to the front of the group.
YOUNG WOMAN 2
No Lila!
She stepped forward slightly as she looked at the man before her.
YOUNG WOMAN 2
Take me! Let the others go!
?
Now, why would I do that when I can easily take all of you.
He stepped closer to the young woman and loomed over her in a menacing manner.
?
Now get back in with the rest of the group before you make me mad.
The young woman stood defiantly before the larger man and refused to move.
YOUNG WOMAN 2
Not without my sister. Now let her go.
The man looked at the woman who was in his grasp for a moment and smiled.
?
Oh, so this is your sister, huh?
(Threatening tone) Well then if you don't want anything to happen to her, I would suggest you be a good little girl, do as you're told and get back in line.
The defiant young woman didn't say anything as she simply scowled at the man for a moment before stepping back with the others as the man smiled.
?
Now that's more like it.
The man then turned around for a moment to speak to some of the other men with him. Then as he spoke, he suddenly felt something hard hit the back of his head and quickly spun back around to face the group as he put his hand to his head and spotted the small rock at his feet before sneering at the group as he picked up the rock.
?
(Angry tone) Whoever threw this had better step forward right now, or I'll be sure to make every single second of all of your all of lives a living nightmare for as long as you're in my possession.
The group fell silent as he waited for someone to come forward. But after a moment and when no one admitted to throwing the rock, he grew tired of waiting and held out his hand towards one of the other men, who handed him a whip.
?
(Angry tone) No one wants to come forward? Fine, I'll just have to teach you all a lesson together.
He then proceeded to raise his arm and was just about to bring down the whip on one of the villagers in the front of the group when the same young woman who had dared to stand up to him before spoke up.
YOUNG WOMAN 2
No, don't! It was me. I threw it.
The man looked at the young woman as he lowered the whip and smiled as he walked up to her.
?
There that wasn't so hard, now was it?
He looked at the young woman for a moment before his smile faded, and he threw a hard slap across her face that knocked her to the ground.
LILA
No stop!
The young woman in the group was held back by the others as she tried to run to her sister, who layed in the dirt holding her cheek as she felt the sting of the hit and looked up at the man now standing over her.
?
Maybe now you see that this isn't a game, little girl and that it's in your best interests to listen and do what you're told.
He then kicked her in her ribs, and she grabbed at her side as she rolled over and curled up in an attempt to shield herself from several more blows that rained down on various parts of her body. All the while, the sounds of multiple people screaming could be heard as they begged and pleaded with him to stop.
?
Pick her up and let's finally get going. We were already late as it was, and having to stop to teach some stupid little bitch a lesson killed even more time than I really would have liked.
He then turned around and began walking away, as a couple of the other men grabbed the young woman and roughly pulled her to her feet and shoved her towards the rest of the captives. With a split lip and hair body hurting all over, the young woman held her side as she painfully stood among the villagers once again.
LILA
No Gabrielle.
Lila moved to her sister as did an older woman held Gabrielle as she stood slightly unbalanced. The man in charge of the rest then gave a signal to the others to move out, and the group of villagers were moved along as they began making their way to wherever they were being taken. Everyone traveled in silence for a bit before while walking in the back of the group, Lila heard Gabrielle who was walking with her head down mutter something.
LILA
(Whisper) What did you say, Gabrielle? I didn't hear you.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) I said stay with mother and the others, I'm gonna try and get out of here and see if I can find help.
LILA
(Whisper) Are you crazy, Gabrielle?! You're already hurt from them beating you just got for speaking up back there. Who knows what they'll do to you if you try to run away.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) And do you have any idea what will happen to us once we're sold off into slavery? Because I can pretty much guarantee that it won't be anything good.
LILA
(Whisper) They never said anything about selling us into slavery.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper/ slightly annoyed tone) What did you think they were planning on doing with us?
Lila looked at the ground sadly as they continued to walk.
LILA
(Sad tone/ Whisper) Honestly, I've been trying not to think about it
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Well, someone needs to do something before it's too late.
LILA
(Whisper) How Gabrielle? What are we supposed to do? If we try and fight back, you know what will happen.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Maybe. But that's only if they can catch us.
LILA
(Whisper) There's no way we're all out running all of these armed men without any of us getting caught again and possibly killed.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) You're right. But if only one of us tries to sneak away without them noticing, then they can go find help.
LILA
(Whisper) Gabrielle, you know everyone in our village. Do you honestly think that someone is going to be able to out run these guys long enough to escape, then find help, then somehow make it back to find and free the rest of us?
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Well, it beats doing nothing.
LILA
(Whisper) And just who is supposed to do this? And how without getting caught.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Simple, you're gonna cause a distraction, and then I'll make a run for it.
LILA
(Whisper) Absolutely not! Gabrielle, what you're thinking of doing is suicide.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Maybe it is, but I can't just stand by and do nothing while everyone gets sold off into an unimaginable life of suffering. Especially you and mother.
LILA
(Whisper) ... Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) If I don't make it back, try to stay safe and take care of mother and father. I love you, Lila.
Gabrielle held Lila's hand for a moment before letting go and giving her sister a sad smile, knowing that she would most likely be killed for attempting this. But the thought that she could help her mother, sister and the others that were captured escape safely, then that was a risk she was willing to take. So with somewhat of a plan in mind, Gabrielle made her way to the front of the group as she scooped up several stones along the way. The leader of the group of men who had taken them was riding in front of her group as he felt a small, hard object hit him. He growled as he already assumed who the perpetrator was and wasn't surprised when he turned around and saw Gabrielle as she chucked another stone at him.
?
(Angry tone) That's it! You're clearly more trouble than you're worth. The Hades to what Draco says. This little bitch is better off dead. Get her!
SLAVER
But Hector...
HECTOR
(Angry tone) I said get her!
A few of the other men rushed towards Gabrielle, who ran off as they chased after her. And as she disappeared, Lila watched and prayed to any gods that might've been listening that Gabrielle would be okay. But what no one could have ever seen coming was what would actually happen to Gabrielle as she did her best to ignore the pain from the beating she had endured and moved as fast as she could with her pursuers hot on her trail. And while running away from a truly awful situation, she had no idea that she was inadvertently heading straight into another one. Of which many might have argued that compared to being sold into slavery, what laid ahead for Gabrielle would be a far worse fate.
Tents were being erected in a clearing as a number of men went about preforming the other various tasks that went into getting a large camp set up. Leonidas walked among the busy camp as he looked around to ensure that everyone was doing what they were supposed to. And once he was satisfied that things were going as they should, be headed to the largest tent in the camp. Of which had been set up first and sat a good distance away from the rest as was typical unless they were unfortunate enough to be stuck settling up camp in a smaller, less desirable area.
LEONIDAS
My lord.
The man announced himself at the large tent's entrance.
?
Enter.
Accepting the invitation, Leonidas pushed aside one of the flaps that hung down at the tent's entrance and stepped inside. Inside, he saw their leader standing over a table looking at a map and didn't even bother to look his way as he came inside.
LEONIDAS
The camp is nearly finished being set up and your dinner will be ready shortly my lord.
?
Not hungry.
Leonidas watched as the tall figure picked up a goblet of wine that was sitting on the table beside the map and drank it down before putting the cup down and returning the focus to the large piece of paper spread out before them.
LEONIDAS
Very well, my lord. Is there anything you do need from me before I take my leave then?
?
Another wine skin.
LEONIDAS
Yes my lord, I'll return in a few moments with that for you.
The man left the tent and returned several minutes later. Upon his return, he saw his leader idly lounging among a pile of pillows that had been set up on the floor of the tent with several furs draped over them. He brought over the wine skin and handed it to his leader, who popped it open and took a long drink right from it before setting it on the pillow beside them.
LEONIDAS
I know you said you weren't hungry, but I thought I'd fix you a plate before the rest of the men ate all the good stuff. In case you might want something later.
He held out the plate tentatively for his lounging superior to either accept or decline. And after appearing to consider it for a moment, the offering was accepted and sat on a pillow to go on to be idly picked at periodically. Relieved that the food wasn't thrown back at him, Leonidas gave the typical salute of his fist over his chest that everyone in the army usually did when greeting or leaving their leader's presence.
LEONIDAS
If that's all my lord I will leave you to your evening. That is, unless there was anything else you needed.
The man's leader looked at him for a moment, considering if there was anything else that he needed to do. Leonidas was a tall, muscular man. He had long dark brown hair that he wore pulled back into a ponytail. He had a mustache that connected into a well trimmed beard that covered his entire jaw and matched the color of the hair atop his head. His eyes were dark as his face by default seemed to have an intimidating appearance to it. He wore heavy armor that was an off, dull bronze color and had a few inconsequential designs embedded throughout the metal chest plate, shoulder guards, and gauntlets. From the waist down, he wore simple, very dark blue pants that were tucked into his boots that were also simplistic in design and dark brown. On his back, he carried a large two-handed sword that he could wield with deadly precision on the battlefield. As that along with his natural leadership and tactical mind had led him to climb the ranks within the army to become one of his lord's most trusted advisors. Of which was no small feat as trust was something that was a very difficult thing to gain from his leader who as a rule typically didn't trust anyone other than themselves. Unless given what they saw as sufficient proof to do otherwise. And this was very rare, so Leonidas counted himself lucky to be among the few that were actually trusted.
?
No. That'll be all.
LEONIDAS
Yes my lord. Sleep well.
The man bowed his head slightly as he brought his fist to his chest before turning and exiting the tent.
?
Yeah, yeah.
The army leader took another drink from the wine skin and got comfortable among the pillows as they proceeded to drink themselves into a drunken supper before eventually passing out.
SLAVER 1
(Irritated tone) Shit, where'd that little bitch go?
SLAVER 2
She couldn't have gotten far after that beating Hector gave her.
A few armed men stood among the trees as they looked for the escaped Gabrielle, who was only a few feet away laying on the ground in the cover of some bushes. The men walked around the area for several minutes as Gabrielle did everything she could to remain still and silent as she waited and hoped that they would leave soon. The slavers walked around as they continued to search for their escaped would-be slave. As they searched, one of the men came to the shrubbery where Gabrielle was hiding. Seeing his boots through the branches and leaves, Gabrielle quickly covered her mouth with her hands to stifle a small frightened gasp along her increased, terrified breathing. She then laid completely still as she closed her eyes as she waited and hoped for them to leave. She did her best to ignore the pain in her side from being brutally kicked and stomped in the ribs several times among other areas on her body. All of which were fairly sore, though didn't hurt quite as much as her ribs. Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the slaver turned and walked away.
SLAVER 2
Well I can't find her
SLAVER 1
You know that Hector is gonna be pissed that we let her get away.
SLAVER 2
I'm more worried about what Draco's gonna do when he finds out. His temper has been getting worse lately, and I would hate to be anyone who gets on his bad side. Especially when he's in one of his moods.
SLAVER 1
Yeah I know what you mean. I'm just glad it's Hector who has to report directly to Draco and not me.
SLAVER 2
No kidding. Come on, maybe we can make up something to tell Hector so he doesn't go off on us for losing the girl.
The men walked off, and Gabrielle laid there for several more minutes to make sure they were gone before crawling out of the bushes. She stood up and held her side as she tried to think of what to do now.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I have to save Lila, mother and the others who got get taken away. But how? Hopefully I can find someone nearby that can help. I better hurry before they get moving.
Gabrielle pushed through her pain and hurried as fast as she could in search of anyone who might be able to help her.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I can't believe I haven't run into anyone else out her yet.
Gabrielle walked among the trees for some time as she searched for signs that anyone might be around. It was a little later when she found herself coming up to a clearing. She existed the woods she'd been walking around in and stood tiredly as she tried to figure out what to do.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself annoyed/ sarcastically) Great there's nothing around here for as far as I can see.
She looked around.
GABRIELLE
Thinking to herself) Where am I anyway?
Having never ventured too far out from her home village, Gabrielle found herself in unfamiliar surroundings. Returning home wasn't much of an option, as everyone who was left behind wouldn't be any help in rescuing the others still with the slavers. Her thoughts then settled on her mother and sister. They were among the rest of the group that had likely been taken away by now. How would she find them, what could she do? She didn't want to think of what might happen to them if they weren't rescued soon. So even though she was lost and in pain, Gabrielle pushed on as she hoped that she'd find someone who could help her soon.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself annoyed) Now where am I supposed to go?
Gabrielle stood at the bank of a river after walking for a while longer. The water was flowing much too fast for her to just simply walk or swim across, as she looked around for a bridge, but didn't see one.
GABRIELLE
Thinking to herself) Guess I can just walk along the river for a bit. I'm sure there'll be a village or people somewhere along the way.
So Gabrielle began following the river, certain that she'd come across some kind of settlement or people along the way. She'd been following the river for a while when she heard what sounded like horses coming up from behind her. Thinking she had gotten lucky and had finally found help, Gabrielle turned around and saw several riders heading her way. But as they got closer, Gabrielle felt her blood run cold.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) No, they followed me.
Gabrielle turned and started running, which caused Hector and the two other men with him to spot her faster.
HECTOR
(Angry tone) There you are you little bitch. I can't believe Draco actually sent me after you.
He and the other men urged their horses to go faster as they began chasing after Gabrielle.
HECTOR
(Angry tone) You're not slipping away this time. And when I catch you, I'm going to make sure you pay for all the trouble you've caused me.
Gabrielle ran as fast as she could with the pain in her side. She looked over her shoulder as she ran to see Hector and the others catching up to her fast. Returning her gaze forward, Gabrielle pushed on as she looked for some kind of way to escape. She knew that it would be impossible for her to out run them normally, as she never had been the most physically fit girl in her village, let alone household. But with them on horseback, she knew that she only had a matter of moments to figure out some way to escape. Looking ahead, Gabrielle spotted a half fallen tree whose branch looked to nearly reach the other side of the river. Setting her sights on the tree, Gabrielle beelined straight for it in the hopes that she could make it across and find a place to hide before the men chasing her could dismount their horses and follow her across. Gabrielle ran for several more yards so before finally reaching the partially downed tree. Spairing a quick glance back to see her pursuers rapidly closing in, Gabrielle began climbing onto the downed tree. She reached up and pulled herself onto the base of the branch. She then began to crawl along the branch towards the other side of the river. As she moved, she heard Hector and the others reach the river. She looked back and saw one of the men approaching the tree before looking forward again and speeding up. Gabrielle was more than halfway across when she heard a cracking sound. She didn't even have time to wonder what it was before the branch she was on broke right out from under her and she plunged into the rushing river that immediately dragged her under as it swept her away with the unforgiving current.
HECTOR
(Annoyed) Great now I have to tell Draco that he's down a slave to sell.
SLAVER
A firery one like her would've been a difficult one to break anyway. So she might've just saved us the hassle of dealing with her.
HECTOR
Fair point. Come on, let's go. Leave the bitch's body to wash up somewhere down stream and become a meal for the scavengers.
The group of slavers turned back and rode off to meet up with the rest of their group and carry on moving the rest of their new human inventory. Leaving behind the rushing river where there was no remaining trace of Gabrielle as it seemed that this was where the young woman had met her untimely demise.
The water rushed as Gabrielle fought against the rapids that carried her ever further downstream. It was all she could do just to keep her head above the water's surface, which didn't work all too well as she was repeatedly pushed under. While under the water, Gabrielle tumbled through the rapids before being inadvertently pushed to the surface where she coughed and gasped for air as she did everything she could to fight the current. She swam as hard as she could despite her injured ribs but wasn't strong enough to prevent herself from being tossed around like a rag doll as she was once again pulled under. Gabrielle was carried beneath the water for a good distance as she found herself unable to swim back to the water's surface. She held her breath, but soon found her lungs beginning to feel as though they were burning as she knew that she wouldn't be able to make it much longer. She needed air. Being pulled further down the river, Gabrielle struggled until her body couldn't take the deprivation of oxygen any longer and despite Gabrielle's efforts her mouth opened on its own as her natural instincts took over and attempted to take in a breath but only took in water instead. Quickly, Gabrielle covered her nose and mouth as panic began to set in and water began flowing into her lungs. Just as it seemed as though she'd drown, Gabrielle suddenly found herself being carried back to the surface. Gabrielle's head popped out from beneath the water with a gasped and as she coughed up water and took in several deep breaths. She had just somewhat caught her breath when she was shoved back underwater. She tumbled a number of times before managing to get back to the surface. However, as she resurfaced once again Gabrielle was met with a series of rocks that laid directly in her path. Unable to do anything to alter her trajectory, Gabrielle was thrust into a large bolder. She yelled painfully as her arm and shoulder was slammed against the rock before the water dragged her further along. The river tossed her about, driving her into a couple more rocks along the way. Gabrielle felt her consciousness beginning to fade when after several more minutes finally the water began to calm and slow. Further away, the scenery was peaceful as a deer stood beside the gently flowing waters and lowered its head to drink. Lapping up the cool, refreshing drink for a moment, the deer's head suddenly shot up and its ears twitched as it went on high alert after hearing an unfamiliar noise. The creature stood still as it assessed the possible danger that might be coming its way. There was silence for a moment before the small, unknown sound rang out again. This time the deer made a decision to not stick around and possibly fall prey to whatever the sound had originated from as it hastily turned about galloped off, never seeing the small barely conscious blonde who had washed up into the tall grass on the riverbank. Several long minutes passed as Gabrielle just laid there flat on her stomach, gasping and catching her breath. Exhausted and in incredible pain, Gabrielle tried to push herself up but fell flat once again as she cried out in pain that shot through her arm and back. She laid there in the grass and mud as the day's events ran through her mind.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) How did today end up like this? I woke up this morning, and it was just like any other day. And now mother, Lila and the others, they're gone. Taken who knows where. And I'm laying here, unsure of where I even am in a muddy riverbank, barely able to move. I couldn't do anything to save any of them.
Gabrielle closed her eyes as tears began to run down her cheeks.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) What am I gonna do? Mother, Lila, I'll probably never see them again. I'll probably never see father or anyone else still in the village either. I can't move to get up, and I'm so tired. So very... tired.
Though Gabrielle had tried to fight it, she felt her eyes become increasingly heavy until she could no longer hold back the darkness that finally claimed her as completely exhausted, she fell unconscious and laid there completely lost and alone along the riverbank.
?
(Grumbling)
The complete darkness slowly began to give way as a groggy head lifted slowly from its furry resting place, only to quickly fall back as a low, tired groan rang out. Tired, unfocused eyes blinked several times as the still foggy head attempted to raise up again, only to fall back once more as a throbbing pain surged through it.
?
Fuck!
A hand found forehead as eyes closed once more?
?
(Grumbling) Screw this shit, I'm going back to sleep.
Crickets could be heard chirping as a pair of green eyes slowly opened and Gabrielle finally awoke. It was dark as she lifted her still damp head and tried to see through the night that had fallen while she was unconscious. The sound of the running water reminded her of what had happened and Gabrielle pushed herself to get up as the thoughts of finding a way to save those taken by the slavers filled her mind, Gabrielle stood and shivered as the cool night air swept across her still wet clothes. Her ribs and shoulder still hurt as her still tired legs carried her away from the river. She walked slowly along the darkness of night, unsure of where she was going until in the distance Gabrielle spotted what appeared to be the glow of a campfire.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) A fire! Thank the gods. That means there's gotta be someone around here. I can finally get some help.
Though tired and hurting, Gabrielle began making her way towards the light being thrown as she thought that she had finally found the help that she so desperately needed.
?
(Grumbling) What time is it?
Opening, eyes blinked and slowly adjusted to the darkness inside the tent. A light, throbbing pain still pulsed through a head as a hand reached up to massage the affected forehead.
?
(Grumbling) That stuff must've been stronger than what I usually drink.
After laying there for a few moments trying to work away the pain, a sickening feeling began to take hold.
?
I think I need some fresh air.
Slowly, a dark figure stood up from the pile of pillows and grabbed a fur coat that was hung over a chair and threw it on as they stepped outside the tent into the crisp night air. Looking around, there was barely a soul in sight, as everyone in the camp had long since either gone to sleep or passed out. Only a handful of guards stood awake and on patrol as the leader of this camp turned from the tent and began walking into the night. A little outside the camp, the figure walked before stopping by a series of trees and learned their arm against one as they attempted to fight off the sick feeling from the obvious hangover they were experiencing. Taking several deep breaths, the figure put a hand on their knee as they fought against the vomit threatening to make its appearance. After a few moments and some more breathing, the feeling began to pass as the dark figure returned to standing upright. They took another breath and relaxed as they began walking again before barely a minute later finding themselves emptying the contents of their stomach into the bushes they happened to be standing by.
?
(Muttering) Well, I guess I feel a little better now.
Wiping their mouth with the back of their hand, the figure stood back up straight and leaned back against a nearby tree as they waited for their stomach to completely settle. Aside from the scattering of the sounds of the typical nocturnal creatures, it was a quiet, peaceful night. Something that hadn't been common as of late for a number of reasons. Reasons that a hungover brain in all honesty didn't want to think about at the moment. There would be plenty of time for that when there wasn't a splitting pain persistently pulsing through their head, they thought to themselves as the figure closed their eyes and rubbed their temples to try and relieve the ache.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself tiredly) Almost there. Just a little further. Then I can get help for everyone.
Gabrielle tiredly walked as she dragged herself towards the campsite that she knew must be there. She walked closer through the darkness before she took another step but found that there wasn't any ground beneath her foot, which sent her tumbling forward down a steep incline. Gabrielle groaned painfully as she landed hard. Tired, wet and cold, she shivered and clenched her already injured ribs as she laid there, feeling nearly every inch of her body in some varying level of pain. Gabrielle remained still as she tried to find the strength to move. She then felt a wave of relief wash over her as she saw a pair of boots step through the bushes she landed behind and stop right in front of her face. Exhausted and unable to get up, Gabrielle reached out and grabbed onto whatever was in front of her as she lifted her head to see a figure almost completely concealed by the dark of night appearing to look down at her.
GABRIELLE
(Exhausted tone) Please... help... my mother, sister, the others... I ran... I... I...
Too exhausted to even speak, Gabrielle's eyes closed as her head sunk to the ground as she succumb to her exhaustion while still clinging to the unknown person standing over her.
Gradually a pair of tired eyes fluttered open then shut as a small groan was heard. After a few seconds, the eyes opened slowly once again and blinked several times as they adjusted to the light. As they did, a somewhat foggy mind began to realize that the surrounding setting was new and unfamiliar.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Where, am I? What happened?
Slowly, Gabrielle raised her head from her position of laying on her stomach and looked around. Nothing seemed familiar. From what Gabrielle could guess, she appeared to be in a large tent. But why she was in the tent or how she had even gotten there to begin with, she had no clue. Gabrielle began trying to sit up but stopped when her body still hurt from her rather difficult journey to where ever she now found herself. Still, Gabrielle managed to get herself into a sitting position. However, as she maneuvered her sore body, Gabrielle realized something that sent a confused and frightening feeling through her. Because as she moved, Gabrielle noticed that shackles and chains had been placed around her wrist and ankles. The chains were just long enough to give her some mobility but still not allow her full, unrestricted use of her arms and legs. The combination of everything she had gone through and now being unexpectedly bound by an unknown assailant was enough to send Gabrielle in a panic as various thoughts began rushing through her mind. Had the slavers she had escaped from found her? Had she run into another terrible group that planned on doing something similar or worse? Either way, Gabrielle didn't want to wait around to find out as she began frantically pulling against the chains, desperately trying to get free. But after a few moments, Gabrielle realized her efforts were pointless, and she was still too hurt to escape this way and stopped tugging as she took a better look around the tent. It seemed to be a rather ordinary tent with just a small blanket on the ground that Gabrielle had been placed on. Aside from that there wasn't anything of note around her, however as she sat there, Gabrielle began to hear a couple of faint voices coming from outside. She moved slightly towards the tent's opening but was stopped when she reached the limit of the length of chain she was connected to. The voices drew closer until Gabrielle could see silhouettes of a few people standing just outside.
?1
(Angry tone) I don't care what they say, I said we're going today.
?2
You do realize going there anyway like this won't go over well for the negotiations.
?1
Well if they didn't want problems, then they shouldn't have changed their minds about when to meet. The meeting was for their benefit, not mine. We had an agreement, and now they're gonna find out what happens when they don't honor it. Now get to work helping to get everything together. Have my horse brought over and saddled. We leave in no later than noon. Dismissed.
Gabrielle watched as one of the silhouettes moved away from the tent as the other stayed in place for a moment, then it moved closer to the tent's entrance and Gabrielle pushed backwards as she suddenly felt a rush of fear hit her, not knowing what might happen to her once whoever was coming her way stepped into the tent. Her back hit the wall and left her with nowhere to go as the flaps of the tent parted, letting in the bright sunlight of the day. Gabrielle raised a hand and squinted as she shielded her eyes to the sudden brightness entering the darker confines. After a moment the light faded and Gabrielle lowered her hand to see a tall figure standing just inside. She looked up at the person and was a bit surprised by the fact that despite hearing the brief conversation just outside, the person standing there before her was a woman. Gabrielle watched as the woman stood there for a moment before appearing to notice her sitting there. With an emotionless look on her face, the woman moved towards Gabrielle, who froze, unsure of what to do as she quickly found the woman standing over her. Gabrielle lifted her head to look up at the woman who stood glaring down at her with her arms folded across her chest.
?
We have two options for how we're gonna do this. Option one, you talk and just tell me why you're here. Or opinion two, you don't tell me what I wanna know right away and find yourself in some very painful situations that even the toughest of men would have a very difficult time enduring. So tell me, little lady, which one is it gonna be?
Gabrielle looked at the woman, unsure of what to say.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) I, I don't know what happened. My village was attacked and a bunch of us were taken, but I ended up escaping and ran for help. I ended up failing into a river and when I washed up I saw the fires from your camp and followed them here.
The thoughts of her family and friends being taken away flooded Gabrielle's mind.
GABRIELLE
My mother, my sister, they were taken away, along with a number of others from our village by slavers. Please, I didn't mean to trespass in your camp, I just wanna find them.
Gabrielle watched as the woman squatted down and appeared to study her for a moment. She noticed the intense look in her eyes that were a crystal clear blue. The woman stood tall, with long hair that was as dark as midnight. Her face while intimidating was actually quite stunning, as for a very brief moment Gabrielle thought just so before realizing that she was staring for some reason and quickly averted her eyes from the other woman's intense gaze. Finally as she did the woman spoke once more.
?
Mmm well I suppose that since you were completely soaked when you came stumbling out of these bushes and landed at my feet before passing out, your story does definitely seem plausible.
The woman then reached out and took hold of Gabrielle's chin in a firm grip as she looked her over again. Gabrielle tensed as she was grabbed, and the dark haired woman brought her face close to hers. The woman looked into Gabrielle's eyes and saw the uncertainty and fear that laid beneath. However what she didn't see was any notion that this little strawberry blonde intruder was lying about anything that she had said. So finally, after another tense moment passed, the dark-haired woman released Gabrielle's chin and stood.
?
However I'm so dumb to not know that looks can very easily be deceiving.
GABRIELLE
No please I'm not lying. You gotta believe me.
The dark haired woman raised an inquisitive eyebrow that Gabrielle honestly couldn't tell whether or not the woman found her statement amusing or just plain ridiculous.
?
Oh, do I? And do you have proof that can cooperate your story?
GABRIELLE
I was soak and wet when I was found wasn't I? And just look at my arms and legs. I've got cuts and bruises all over them.
Gabrielle winced as she shifted and felt the deep pain in her side that still hurt from being beaten and were likely made worse by her involuntary rough trip down the river. She grimaced as she instinctively grabbed at her injured ribs.
GABRIELLE
Among other places, I'm sure.
The woman took in Gabrielle's current condition as she seemed to assess the probability of her story being true.
?
And how can I be certain that this isn't some sort of clever trick to get me to lower my guard? After all, from the looks of you, you don't exactly appear to be all that resilient. So the fact that you not only survived this so -called ordeal of yours, but made it all the way here in "this" condition,
The woman gestured at Gabrielle's injury riddled body.
?
I find that fairly difficult to believe.
GABRIELLE
You can't be serious? Look at me. Who would fake all this?
?
I know plenty who would try far more underhanded tactics in order to get whatever it was they wanted.
Gabrielle shuttered as she saw a brief sinister smile cross the unknown woman's face.
?
Myself included.
The woman was about to continue speaking when the tent flap opened and Gabrielle saw a large armored man walk in. He then stood straight as he brought his fist to his chest in a greeting towards the woman.
LEONIDAS
My lord. Everything except your tent has been picked up, and your horse waits just outside and ready.
The man spotted Gabrielle sitting chained up and looked at the woman who called him in curiosity.
LEONIDAS
A surprise guest, my lord?
?
You could say that. Though I'm still not certain of where exactly this little surprise guest came from.
LEONIDAS
You think she could be an enemy? My lord, look at her. She's just a girl. Barely even a young woman. Surely you don't suspect such an innocent face of having nefarious reasons for being here.
?
You're fooled too easily, Leonidas. There are plenty of times when even the most unassuming appearance can be an unexpected cover to lull those they encounter into lowering their guard. I'm sure you've heard the term "a wolf in sheep's clothing"?
LEONIDAS
Yes of course. So should I take care of her for you then?
Gabrielle's eyes went wide with fear at the implication.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Oh god's they're gonna kill me. I escaped from those slavers only to end up here and get tied up, interrogated and then murdered. Just who exactly are these people?
?
No, there's no need for that.
Gabrielle breathed a small sigh of relief at hearing that.
?
Not yet anyway.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking nervously) What?
?
I can't put my finger on it, but there's something about this girl.
LEONIDAS
Something about her, my lord?
?
Yes. I looked into her eyes and there's something more than what she might appear to be.
LEONIDAS
Than what is it that you would like me to do with her?
The woman thought for a moment as she looked at Gabrielle before returning her attention back to Leonidas.
?
Get some rope. We'll make sure she's good and secure, then we'll all ride out and get this business done with that city to settle that business.
Though Gabrielle tried everything she could think of to talk her way out of her current situation, it wasn't long before she found her wrist and ankles tied as she laid on her stomach draped over the back of a horse. She glanced up at the dark hatred woman who sat in the saddle behind her as the woman spoke to the army that she apparently commanded.
?
Alright, everyone had better have gotten plenty of rest. We've got some good distance to cover before we reach Olympia. We'll see what that city's idiot leader thinks of my proposition when he sees a whole army showing up at his gates.
LEONIDAS
You would think with you already owning all the surrounding areas that he'd see that your offer to him was far more than fair.
?
Yeah, well, stubborn men like him wouldn't know a good deal if it came up and bit 'em in the ass. But I'm sure he'll be much more willing to see things my way when he sees his precious little city that his trying so hard to cling to crumbling right between his tightly gripped fingers. Now let's move out.
The woman got the horse moving as Gabrielle rode away with her while hearing the man called Leonidas address the rest of the large group.
LEONIDAS
You heard her men. Onward to Olympia.
ARMY
For her lord, Conqueror! Xena!
The group began moving as all sorts of alarms began going off in Gabrielle's head after hearing the name of the woman who had now apparently taken Gabrielle captives. Like so many, Gabrielle had heard stories about the woman known far and wide as The Conqueror. Each one more terrifying than the last. And as a whole new level of fear sank in, Gabrielle began to squirm to try and quickly slip from the saddle, though being tied up, she didn't know what she would do afterward. Not that it mattered when she felt a firm hand on her and heard a voice speak in her ear.
XENA
If you're smart you'll just stay there, behave yourself and enjoy the ride. You causing trouble will end up going far worse for you than anything else. Trust me. You don't wanna make me mad, do you?
Gabrielle shook her head no.
XENA
Good girl.
And with that the Gabrielle felt that horse pick up speed as she lowered her head and watched the ground pass by as she was carried off by one of the most feared people within all of Greece, wondering if she might have been better off being taken by the slavers she had escaped from. Or if everything about the Conqueror's reputation was to be completely believed, Gabrielle began to question if she might have even been better off if she were just already dead.
Rocks, dirt and grass were Gabrielle's primary view as she laid over the back of a moving horse. For how long, she wasn't sure. But all the while, she couldn't help but think of just how much trouble she now found herself in. Because now that she was aware of the identity of the woman whose camp she had stumbled upon, Gabrielle was terrified to even think of what horrific fate might now be awaiting her. After all, Gabrielle had heard stories about the Conqueror. Some were obviously exaggerated to scare small children, such as the Conqueror being some kind of literal monster with fangs and claws. That she could breathe fire. Or that she would drink the blood of her fallen enemies. At least Gabrielle hoped that last one wasn't true. But even putting aside the more outlandish tales she had heard, there were plenty of things that Gabrielle had heard about the Conqueror from the random travelers who would pass by Potidea. And those types of stories were very believable. Such as the increasing number of villages, towns and cities that had fallen to the Conqueror. Gabrielle heard about the utter destruction that would be left in the wake of an attack from the Conqueror's army. Including anyone who dared to even attempt to stand in her way. In fact, at one point there had even been rumors that the Conqueror's army had been marching near Potidea. But fortunately, to everyone in the village's relief, the army had moved on from the area without ever coming in contact with the village. As far as Gabrielle knew, the Conqueror already had long since taken control over the whole area where Potidea resided and stretched far across a very large portion of Greece as a whole. But again that was only what Gabrielle had heard, she honestly wasn't sure if it was true or not. Though she supposed that the validity of most of the various rumors about the Conqueror didn't really matter now given that it seemed that Gabrielle would now be experiencing what the Conqueror was like first hand. And that fact truly terrified Gabrielle as nothing else in her life had ever before.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) God's with my side already hurting beforehand, that didn't make riding like that any easier.
Gabrielle winced after being let down from the horse when the group made a stop. She stood looking around at the army busy getting their lunch prepared and saw that the Conqueror's attention appeared to be elsewhere as she stood looking out at the others. Gabrielle frowned as she looked down at the shackles still on her wrists, but was glad that at least her feet were no longer bound as well. Apparently before leaving the camp it was determined that it would be easier not to shackle Gabrielle's feet together. This way, no one would have to carry her around every time they stepped somewhere. So as everyone else went about their business, Gabrielle was left standing near the horses. All of which were much too big for her to simply climb on, especially when she had limited use of her hands with them still being bound together. So Gabrielle riding off with one of the horses wasn't exactly a concern. Not to mention that though no one else there knew it, even if Gabrielle wasn't chained she likely wouldn't get far even if she did steal one of the horses as she honestly had no idea how to actually ride. And given her smaller stature, both mounting and riding such large creatures would be a fairly difficult task for Gabrielle to complete without being noticed. So that being a method of escape was just simply out of the question. Instead, Gabrielle stood watching everyone for a bit as they began to eat, including the Conqueror who after getting her off the horse had just left Gabrielle to her own devices. Seeing that no one appeared to be watching her, Gabrielle realized that this might be the opportunity that she needed to sneak away without being noticed and escape. Which was exactly what she did as she slowly backed away. After taking several steps back and seeing that no one appeared to notice, Gabrielle swiftly turned around and began to run. Gabrielle ran, ignoring the pain she still felt from her injuries as she pushed herself to keep going and get as far away from that camp as she possibly could. She had put some distance between herself and the camp, as she briefly glanced back to see the army gradually falling further behind her before looking forward once again and saw that she was coming up on a line of trees. Figuring that she might be able to find a good spot to hide out until the Conqueror and her army left, Gabrielle hurried as best she could to the trees. She ran by the first few trees to try hiding herself further in among them and saw what looked to be a perfect place for her to hide. It was a partially uprooted tree that had a small hollowed out area that looked just big enough for Gabrielle to crawl into and stay until the coast was clear. She closed in and was nearly to the hollowed out tree, when she saw a tall figure step out from behind one of the trees she was just about to pass. Startled, Gabrielle stopped dead in her tracks, losing her balance and falling back. She sat there as she looked up and saw a pair of intense eyes staring down at her.
XENA
Going somewhere?
No sure what might happen to her if the Conqueror thought she was trying to escape, Gabrielle quickly tried to come up with something that would explain why she had wandered away from the camp.
GABRIELLE
(Lying/ nervous tone) Oh, I just thought I'd have a little look around the area. You know, take in the sights and all that.
(Nervous tone) You know I've never been this far away from my village, so I'm not really used to seeing all of this wide open wilderness.
(Lying/ nervous tone) So I guess I actually wandered too far away by mistake.
Xena raised her eyebrow.
XENA
Is that so? Because from where I'm standing, it sure looks like you were trying to run off.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) Oh, well, I uh...
Gabrielle felt her heart skip a beat when she was suddenly grabbed by her shirt and lifted to her feet before having her back pushed up against the tree that Xena had emerged from behind. She stood there, her eyes wide with fear as Xena's hands ended up on either side of her head as the Conqueror stared her down.
XENA
Well since you seem a little confused on the exact details of what you were doing out here, let's try something a little easier. Now, I'm assuming you have a name.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) it's Gabrielle.
XENA
Gabrielle huh. Good, so you can actually answer basic questions. Alright, now tell me Gabrielle, what is it that you were hoping to achieve last night when you decided to intrude on my camp?
GABRIELLE
Like I tried to tell you last night, just by chance I found your camp after I escaped from slavers who took myself and several others from our village.
XENA
Yeah, yeah you were beaten, ran off, fell into a river, got carried away and somehow ended up finding your way to my camp. You're really sticking to that story, aren't you.
GABRIELLE
Because it's the truth. When I spotted the campfires from your camp in the distance, I thought I had found someone who might help me and save the others. Including my younger sister and mother, who were taken with the rest of the women. And now I don't know if I'll ever see my family or anyone else from Potidea ever again.
XENA
That's quite the sad story, but you must think I'm stupid if you think I'm going to believe that anyone would be dumb enough to try and take people captive from an area that has been known to be under my control for years.
GABRIELLE
Under your control? What do you mean?
XENA
Exactly what it sounds like. Everything that surrounds that little farming village you say that you're from has been a part of my expanding empire for a very long time now.
GABRIELLE
No, that can't be possible, no one that I know of has ever mentioned that. If that were true, then wouldn't we have to had pay taxes or given offerings of some kind?
Xena scowled as she leaned in a little closer to Gabrielle's face.
XENA
(Sinister tone) Are you calling me a liar?
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) N-no, of course not. I just didn't know, that's all.
XENA
(Sinister tone) And now you do.
Xena pulled back slightly.
XENA
Now back to my original point, you're telling me that you and a handful of others were supposedly taken away from Potidea.
Gabrielle nodded slowly.
XENA
By who? Because everyone aside from you apparently knows that Potidea belongs to me. I can't think of anyone who would be dumb enough to try and pull that sort of thing without my knowledge.
GABRIELLE
I'm not exactly sure but I while I was hiding after I first escaped I think I heard some of them mention the names Hector and Draco.
Gabrielle felt another chill race down her spine as she saw a deathly scowl come across the Conqueror's face.
XENA
(Sinister tone/ talking to herself) No, even he isn't that stupid.
Gabrielle could practically feel the rage radiating from the woman who still stood before her. She watched as a cold, unfeeling look appeared in the Conqueror's blue eyes and suddenly felt her knees began to shake as she got a terrible feeling that something terrible was about to happen. Then in an instant found herself being grabbed by the front of her shirt and lifted off the ground.
XENA
(Angry tone) Liar! Even Draco knows what would happen to him if he dared to even attempt to pull something like that within my territory.
Gabrielle kicked her feet and grabbed at the strong hands that held her suspended in the air as she tried to free herself, without success.
GABRIELLE
(Scared tone) I'm not lying, I swear. That's the name I heard.
XENA
(Angry tone) And why should I believe you? For all I know, everything you've said to me since you showed up could all be lies. And do you know what I do to people who lie and try to pull some kind of trickery on me?
Gabrielle found herself pressed up against a tree and held there with one arm as the Conqueror pulled out a small dagger from her side and brought it up to Gabrielle's throat. Fear raced through Gabrielle as she felt the edge of the sharp blade pressed up against her skin. She was so terrified that she couldn't even speak as she looked into the eyes of the ruthless woman who was about to mercilessly end her life.
LEONIDAS
(Breathless) My lord!
Xena looked over her shoulder and saw her head officer quickly approaching. And after a moment, once he reached where Xena stood still holding Gabrielle against the tree, the man stopped and gave the typical salute.
LEONIDAS
(Breathless) My lord, I must speak with you immediately.
XENA
(Irritated tone) In case you couldn't tell Leonidas, I'm a little busy at the moment.
The man caught his breath as he finally noticed the precarious state that Gabrielle was currently in but decided it was in his best interest not to say anything about it right then.
LEONIDAS
Yes I can see that. But I feel as though you may have more interest in my message than whatever lead to this predicament involving our surprise guest here.
Xena looked at Gabrielle for a moment with an unreadable expression.
XENA
Fine.
Xena took her blade away from Gabrielle's neck and let her go. Gabrielle's feet touched the ground, but her legs gave out from the fear she still felt, and she dropped to the ground, landing on her rear. Gabrielle sat there as she rubbed her throat and couldn't help but overhear the conversation between Xena and Leonidas.
XENA
(Angry tone) Alright Leonidas, what in the name of Hades is so fucking important that it just couldn't wait?
LEONIDAS
This.
He handed Xena a scroll, which she took and opened it. There was a moment of silence as Xena read the parchment, before with a scowl she crumpled the paper in her hand.
XENA
(Angry tone) Son of a fucking Banshee. That bastard must've finally completely lost his damn mind.
LEONIDAS
So what do you wanna do now my lord? Do we continue for Olympia or change our plans?
Xena thought for a moment as she paced slightly before catching a glimpse of Gabrielle who still sat beside the tree and stopped.
XENA
No. We'll still do what we need to in Olympia.
LEONIDAS
Then what about the letter?
XENA
Oh you let me worry about dealing with Draco later.
Xena gave Gabrielle a sinister smile.
XENA
I think I might have something that might do just the trick.
She then waved off her officer.
XENA
Now go tell the others to start packing up. I wanna reach Olympia before nightfall tomorrow.
LEONIDAS
Yes my lord. Should I take the girl with me as well?
XENA
Sure. And have her and my horse ready within the next half hour. We leave then.
LEONIDAS
As you wish.
Leonidas took Gabrielle by her arm and began to lead her back to camp.
XENA
Oh and be sure to keep an eye on her, don't need her running off.
LEONIDAS
Yes my lord.
He kept walking with Gabrielle and stopped when he heard Xena call out to him again.
XENA
Keep her away from the others too. It's been quite some time since a lot of the men have been around another female other than myself. Don't need them distracted or getting any ideas when they see a pretty little thing like her around.
Leonidas couldn't help but smirk.
LEONIDAS
A pretty little thing, my lord?
Xena glared at the man.
XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) You know what I meant.
LEONIDAS
Of course, I'll be sure to keep watch over our new little companion here.
XENA
Good. Be sure to have her cleaned up and given something to eat while you're at it too. I don't think she's eaten for some time.
LEONIDAS
That's awfully kind of you my lord.
XENA
Oh please Leonidas, kindness has nothing to do with it. I simply don't want her to starve, nothing more. Until I see what exactly she's worth to Draco, I'm sure I can find some use for her around here anyway.
LEONIDAS
As you wish.
The man looked at Gabrielle for a moment a gave her a kind, gentle smile.
LEONIDAS
Come along then little one, and we'll get you all cleaned up and fed.
Gabrielle looked at the large man and then to Xena once more before being led away and back to camp. Now even more uncertain of what awaited her now that she appeared to be stuck with the Conqueror and her army to be used as some kind of weapon against the leader of the slavers who had inadvertently put her in the harrowing situation that Gabrielle now found herself in. Of which at the moment, she couldn't see a way out of.
XENA
Let's move out.
The Conqueror got her horse into a slow gallop as she led her army away from the now disbanded campsite. At Xena's insistence, Gabrielle sat in front of her in the saddle and rode with her as they traveled towards Olympia. All the while thinking about her home and family that she was now moving further and further away from.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Please, wherever they are right now, just let them be okay.
Gabrielle let a series of silent tears fall as she feared she would never see her loved ones again. And that her life was now left in the hands of the cold, calculated, brutal woman they called Xena. Also known and feared by people far and wide simply as the lord Conqueror.
Gabrielle held on to the saddle horn and silently sat there as she tried to ignore how uncomfortable the fresh bandages around her ribs were. They had been put on after Xena had her looked at due to her noticing the other visible cuts and bruises all over Gabrielle's body. So after being tended to, Gabrielle was giving some food and was giving some spare clothing until hers were cleaned, dried and given back to her. She watched as they rode by the peaceful scenery that she would typically take full advantage of getting to see, but giving her current situation, taking in the sights was the furthest thing from Gabrielle's mind. She didn't know how long they've been traveling when she decided to try and see if she could figure out a way to get away from her new captors.
GABRIELLE
So you said we're going to Olympia?
XENA
Mm.
GABRIELLE
Can I ask what for?
XENA
Business.
GABRIELLE
Ah.
There was some more silence until Gabrielle spoke up again. This time asking what she really wanted to know.
GABRIELLE
You still think I'm a spy or something, don't you?
XENA
That remains to be seen.
GABRIELLE
So what are you gonna do with me?
XENA
Haven't decided yet.
GABRIELLE
I don't suppose letting me go is an option, is it?
XENA
What do you think?
GABRIELLE
Maybe? I mean, what use could you have for keeping me around. I'm sure you've got your hands full enough already without adding some random farm girl to your list of things to worry about.
Gabrielle glanced back at the woman behind her with a hopeful look in her eyes and got a very unamused expression in response.
GABRIELLE
Or not.
XENA
(Sinister tone) You know if I were you, I'd be careful with what you say. After all, if you're so concerned about my work load I could just get you out my hair right now.
Gabrielle swallowed nervously.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) No, that's okay. I don't mind sticking around for a while. For as long as you'll have me, really.
XENA
Good to hear.
The two returned to their silence as they and the rest of the traveling arm continued on their way. The sun had just begun to set when a half asleep Gabrielle found herself nearly falling off the horse when Xena brought the animal to a stop and swiftly dismounted from behind Gabrielle without warning. With a quick, startled yelp, Gabrielle quickly wrapped her arms around the horse's neck as she felt herself slipping from the saddle.
LEONIDAS
My that certainly is an interesting way to ride.
The large man chuckled as he walked up, seeing Gabrielle in her precarious position of hanging off the horse with her arms wrapped around its strong neck sideways with one leg stuck on the saddle as the other dangled above the ground.
LEONIDAS
Would the little lady like a hand?
GABRIELLE
No, thanks, I got it.
Gabrielle attempted to pull herself up but failed miserably as she just barely managed to keep herself from falling off completely.
LEONIDAS
Are you sure? Because it looks like you're having a little trouble getting down safely there.
Gabrielle grumbled as she tried to pull herself up again, but then felt the pain of her unhealed ribs shoot through her as the pain forced her to lose her grip and head straight for the ground. But as Gabrielle felt herself slipping, a moment later she found herself being caught in a pair of large arms.
LEONIDAS
Easy there little one. I got ya.
He smiled and gently put Gabrielle down, letting her stand.
GABRIELLE
Um, thanks.
He gave Gabrielle a pat on her head before turning away and walking over to where Xena stood watching everyone dismount their horses and lead them towards the stables that laid just outside the city. Meanwhile, Gabrielle stood looking at the city gates. She had never seen such a large settlement with her own eyes before. Though she had imagined traveling to such places many times as she would long to see what adventures layed outside the borders of Potidea. However, seeing it this way was certainly not something that Gabrielle had quite expected. Her thoughts again brought her to worry about what was happening to her mother, sister and the rest of those taken from her village. It had only been about a day and a half since the village came under attack. And now there Gabrielle stood, unsure of just how far away from home she was. Her whole world turned upside-down, and now she was being kept in the presence of the Conqueror. What would happen to her as a result, Gabrielle had no clue. But if the stories about the Conqueror were true, she knew her fate likely wouldn't be good.
LEONIDAS
I believe we've arrived a bit later than we had anticipated, my lord.
Xena glanced up at the sky at the slowly setting sun.
XENA
I guess we'll just have to wait until tomorrow to deal with this then.
LEONIDAS
Shall I have the others begin setting up camp?
Xena looked around at the area that they were at.
XENA
Nah. We have a whole city right here, so I see no reason for us to bother making camp.
LEONIDAS
You know he won't be happy when he gets word that you've marched half your army right into his city when you're supposed to be having negotiations.
Xena smirked.
XENA
Exactly.
Gabrielle walked into the tavern along with the Conqueror and a good handful of her army. She watched as everyone who was already inside stopped what they were doing, and all eyes turned to Xena. Whispers could be heard as several people hastily made their way out of the tavern, all the while given the Conqueror a variety of unhappy looks that ranged from fear to anger to just plain uncomfortable.
LEONIDAS
(Joking) Never needing to worry about finding a table, just one of the many advantages to being with the lord Conqueror.
He gave Gabrielle's shoulder a pat as Xena gave him a disappointing glare which sent chills down Gabrielle's spine but went mostly ignored by Leonidas.
LEONIDAS
Well, shall we go grab a seat?
The man moved forward and soon there were several large round tables moved near one another as the bulk of the army all sat eating and drinking their fill as they carried on multiple conversations amongst themselves.
XENA
Here, eat something.
Gabrielle found a plate of food being put in front of her as she sat beside the Conqueror, who insisted she sit there. She looked at the dark haired woman who casually leaned back in her seat as she took a bite of her own food before taking a long drink from her mug of ale. Gabrielle didn't say anything as she ate her fill and watched the others for a bit.
LEONIDAS
We have quite the interesting group, don't we?
Gabrielle looked over her shoulder as Leonidas walked over and sat across from her and Xena.
GABRIELLE
I guess so.
The man took a drink from his mug before holding it up slightly.
LEONIDAS
A drink?
GABRIELLE
No thanks. I'm not much of a drinker.
LEONIDAS
Cider? This place has great cider.
GABRIELLE
Um sure, I guess.
The man shouted to one of the severs to bring over a mug of cider, and after a minute one was placed in front of Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
Thank you.
Gabrielle looked at the young server, who smiled before walking off and continuing her work. Gabrielle sat quietly, eating and drinking her cider as she listened to the others at the table talk.
LEONIDAS
What time did you want to meet with Petrodes?
XENA
Probably early to mid-morning. I'd rather get this crap dealt with sooner than later.
LEONIDAS
Do you still want me with you?
XENA
That's the plan Leonidas. For some reason, Petrodes doesn't respect that a woman can become as powerful as I have without a man pulling the strings from behind the scenes.
LEONIDAS
Then why bother having me there at all? You can easily get him to see things your way.
XENA
Because it's the politics of it. Obviously I can just go in and knock him around with no problem, but in the end it would likely only cause more of a headache than it's worth. I'd rather take this city while it's still intact, then have to rebuild it from a drawn out battle. And there's enough resources here where just leveling or torching the place would just be too big a loss. So as much as I don't like it, dealing with Petrodes is our best option here.
LEONIDAS
(Joking) Sounds like tomorrow should be a fun day then, my lord.
Leonidas stood up and stretched out as he yawned.
XENA
(Sarcasm) I'm looking forward to it.
LEONIDAS
In that case I think I'll turn in early tonight.
He then looked at Gabrielle, who was still sitting there quietly as she picked at her meal.
LEONIDAS
Where's she staying tonight?
Xena shrugged casually.
XENA
My rooms plenty big enough for two. I'm not sure if it would be a good idea to have her room with the men.
LEONIDAS
True. Especially after most of them have been drinking and haven't seen a woman for a good while.
Xena raised her eyebrow.
LEONIDAS
Well, aside from you my lord.
Leonidas smiled at Gabrielle.
LEONIDAS
Well goodnight. Sleep well, little one.
With that, Leonidas finished his drink, and left the table as he headed upstairs to one of the rooms that they had rented for the night. A bit later, Gabrielle had finished eating and Xena decided that it was getting time to get some sleep before dealing with what she knew would be a headache the next day.
XENA
Come on.
Xena stood and went to the stairs that lead to the bedrooms. Gabrielle sat there, unsure of if she should follow the notorious Conqueror up to her own private room where no one else would be around. After all, who knew what such a terrifying person might do to someone while in what Gabrielle assumed was a somewhat inebriated state after seeing the woman consume a few large mugs of ale.
XENA
(Impatient tone) Well.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) Well, I, um...
Xena let out a somewhat irritated sigh.
XENA
Look I'm going to bed. So I would highly suggest that you come too. Because I highly doubt you wanna be the only woman around a large group of drunken soldiers who a lot of have been eyeing you since you showed up in my camp.
Gabrielle looked at the others who were now in various stages of drunkenness and suddenly felt very uncomfortable with being left alone with a group of drunken soldiers who she assumed likely didn't have much respect for women normally, much less when they were under the influence of alcohol. So after weighing her options, Gabrielle decided that should anything happen, she would likely have a better chance against one woman than a whole group of men. Even if the woman was the Conqueror of Greece. So she stood up and walked over to the stairs. The Conqueror gestured for Gabrielle to go up ahead of her and Gabrielle did as Xena followed her up the stairs and lead her to their room.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) One bed.
So um...
Xena moved to the bed and began removing her boots and other various accessories that she wore.
XENA
Yes?
GABRIELLE
Where am I supposed to sleep?
Xena paused in her actions and looked at Gabrielle for a moment before looking at the large bed that was more than big enough for two. Then, before Gabrielle realized it was coming, a blanket hit her in her face after being tossed her way. She pulled the blanket from covering her face to see Xena finishing removing her boots and laying back on the spacious bed.
XENA
Pick whichever spot on the floor you think looks cozyest.
Gabrielle stood there for a moment, relieved that the Conqueror didn't seem to have any interest in taking advantage of her. At least not that night, anyway. But then again, Gabrielle honestly didn't know what to expect from the woman. And if anything, that was probably one of the things about the whole situation that scared her the most. As Gabrielle stood there contemplating what to make of the woman, Xena turned to her side and blew out the candle that was lighting the room. As the room went dark, Xena got comfortable and closed her eyes.
XENA
We're getting up early so I suggest you get to sleep instead of standing there staring at me.
Gabrielle sighed to herself as she got down on the floor and covered up. After shifting a few times to find a comfortable position on the hard floor that didn't bother her injuries, Gabrielle layed there in the darkness for a bit, just letting everything from the past couple days wash over her. Then, too mentally and emotionally tired, Gabrielle drifted off. Her dreams taking her back home to the days before she had been abruptly pulled from the only life she'd ever known. Something that she wasn't sure she'd ever be able to return to. After all now that she was being forced into staying with the Conqueror, Gabrielle was certain that it would only be a matter of time before something truly horrible would happen to her. One way or another.
A loud thud Jarred Gabrielle awakes from her slumber as she jumped slightly before groaning when the sudden movement exasperated her injured ribs. Gabrielle grabbed at her side as she laid there, before her eyes focused on a pair of boots sitting on the floor not far from her face. She then heard a voice above her and raised her head to see the Conqueror sitting on the bed looking at a piece of paper before rolling it up and putting it into a pouch in her pack. The woman glanced over at Gabrielle for a moment before returning her attention to her current task of looking over a couple more things as she placed them in her pack.
XENA
Good you're finally awake. Get up and get yourself together. And make it quick, I've got things to do today.
Gabrielle sat up and stretched out a bit as she tried to relieve the aches and stiffness in her body from her injuries paired with sleeping on the hard floor. A combination that was not pleasant in the least. She winced and let out a painful groan as the pain from her injured ribs hit once again. The sound got a brief glance from the Conqueror before she finished putting her things away and walked out of the room, leaving Gabrielle alone. After a moment, Gabrielle pushed through the pain and got to her feet as she stood looking around the small room.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Get myself together? What's that supposed to mean?
Gabrielle looked over and saw a full-body mirror standing in the corner of the room. She moved a little closer and ran her fingers through her disheveled reddish-gold hair until it was straighter. She then stood there for a moment, wondering why she had been so quick to do as she was told. But then felt a bit of fear hit her when she saw the reflection of the Conqueror returning to the room. Gabrielle turned around and stood there as the other woman appeared to give her a quick look over.
XENA
Good enough.
She then tossed an apple in Gabrielle's direction before turning away as she began walking back out of the room.
XENA
Let's go.
Gabrielle stood there for a moment holding the piece of fruit, still trying to process everything she'd been through over the past few days. It almost didn't seem real. Or at least Gabrielle wished it wasn't anyway. But it was. All of it. And now there she stood in a city far off from Potidea as she was being kept by the ruthless, feared Conqueror. What would become of her? Gabrielle had no way of knowing. So far, the Conqueror hadn't done anything to harm her. But with a reputation like the one she had, Gabrielle could only assume that if she wasn't careful around this woman, she would be in very serious danger.
XENA
(Slightly Irritated/ threatening tone) I'm not waiting all day, girl. Stop standing there staring off into nowhere before I give you something to really stare at.
Gabrielle's focus quickly came back to the present as she saw the Conqueror standing by the door to the room looking at her impatiently. She then walked over and Xena opened the door, leading her out to the hallway and down the stairs. Xena then looked at the already crowded room. Most of her men were still passed out from the night before, but there were several awake and sitting at a table together being their typical rude selves to the severs as they walked by trying to ignore them and do their jobs. One of them noticed Xena and immediately stopped hassling the women as he looked away before the rest noticed Xena as well and also pretended they hadn't been doing anything.
LEONIDAS
Gonna need to give some of those newer recruits a lesson in decency
Xena looked over to see Leonidas sitting at the bar with a few others from her army. He took a more gulp of his drink before putting the cup on the counter.
XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) The new recruits are supposed to be your job. So if there's a problem with them, that means there's a problem with you.
LEONIDAS
They've only joined less than a couple of months ago. It's a bit difficult to train 'em properly when we've been almost constantly on the move as of late.
XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) I don't pay you for excuses, Leonidas. I pay you for results.
LEONIDAS
No excuses, just a thought my lord.
XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) Yeah, well you can save some effort by keeping those thoughts to yourself and focus more on getting these damned rookies to fall in line before I end up taking matters into my own hands.
She glanced at the light scar that ran down Leonidas' cheek, which was mostly hidden by his beard, and smirked.
XENA
After all you and I both know how things can turn out when that happens and the recruits get too full of themselves that they end up pissing me off.
Leonidas subconsciously touched the part of the scar that came up above his beard and gave Xena a small half grin in return.
LEONIDAS
Yes. But it can be quite the lesson, my lord. And very effective too if I may add. That is, if they're lucky enough to get the opportunity to learn said lesson and not end up with a one way trip to Hades himself after meeting the end of your blade.
Xena motioned to the man behind the bar to bring her a drink. He brought it over, and she picked it up as she looked at her men sitting in various places around the room.
XENA
Well if they're smart enough it isn't a very difficult lesson to learn quickly.
LEONIDAS
Very true my lord.
Gabrielle stood by silently, listening to the conversation as Xena made quick work of her drink before putting the mug down and walking towards the door.
XENA
Enough idle chatter, we have things to do today. Let's go.
Leonidas stood and saw Gabrielle standing nearby.
LEONIDAS
Um, my lord?
Xena stopped and turned around.
XENA
What.
LEONIDAS
The girl. If I'm coming with you, what do we do with her?
Xena let out an annoyed grumble as she looked around, realizing that she couldn't just leave the girl to her own devices if Leonidas was with her as he was the only one she trusted not to do something stupid if Gabrielle was left alone with him. Not to say that all the rest of her army there weren't trustworthy, but the girl was her captive for the time being, and in actuality Xena's biggest concern was the girl giving her men the slip and escaping. And Xena didn't want her running off. After all, she still wasn't convinced that Gabrielle wasn't being used as a tool in some way by one of her enemies. Of which there was a rather extensive list. Most of whom Xena wouldn't be surprised if they resorted to using such an unassuming young woman to try and trick Xena into lowering her guard. But Xena wouldn't be so easily fooled. Regardless of who this girl truly was, Xena was determined to keep an eye on her, at least until she had the time to fully assess who this Gabrielle was and decide her fate. So without any better options Xena looked at Gabrielle for a moment before turning back towards the door.
XENA
I guess we have no choice but to take her with us. Now keep an eye on her and let's go get this over with already.
Gabrielle watched as the Conqueror walked out the front door and looked beside her when she felt a hand on her back.
LEONIDAS
You heard the lord Conqueror little one. Let's get going. It's best not to keep her waiting.
Gabrielle was gently guided outside where she was walked along with Xena and Leonidas through the busy streets of Olympia. As they moved through the city Gabrielle thought of taking the chance and making a run for it. Surely at least one of the many people around would help her, wouldn't they? Or perhaps she could just simply get lost among the crowds and slip away before either of the other two noticed she was gone. But could she actually get away in her condition? After all she was still experiencing quite a bit of pain from her injuries and knew that she would be much slower than usual, which admittedly wasn't all that fast anyway. But even so she would at least be more agile than she was in her current state. Regardless Gabrielle quickly came to the conclusion that no matter what type of condition she was in, if she were to suddenly try to escape by running away, she'd almost certainly be caught before she made it far. And what would happen to her afterward? Gabrielle was certain that the Conqueror would not be happy with an attempted escape and would surely do something to her as punishment. That is if she didn't just out right kill her right there in the street. Suddenly almost as if she had read Gabrielle's mind, Xena put a hand on Gabrielle's shoulder and spoke quietly into her ear.
XENA
(Quiet tone) Don't go getting any ideas while we're here. Trying to run away will only guarantee that your life will come to a very painful end. Understand?
GABRIELLE
Yes.
XENA
(Quiet tone) Good girl. Now when we get where we're going I want you to stand there and be quiet. You're not to say a word unless you're directly spoken to. You're also not to speak a word to anyone about what you hear today got it?
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Who would I even tell?
I won't, I swear.
XENA
Good. Just keep that in mind, and it might work in your favor when I decide what to do with you.
It wasn't long after when they arrived at the front door of a large three-story building. Gabrielle noted that it looked fairly elegant. Even compared to most of the other buildings in the city, which were all a very far cry from the simple structures that Gabrielle had been used to seeing in her home village and the few neighboring buildings she had seen from time to time when she would venture just outside the village. Olympia certainly was a beautiful city Gabrielle thought as she momentarily forgot the circumstances of which she now found herself in this vast settlement. Reality returned very quickly however as Gabrielle's eyes landed on Leonidas who walked up the number of stairs that lead to the front door of the building and stood by the set of doors which had a couple of guards posted in front of it. He then stood at attention and waited as the Conqueror began ascending the steps next. Mid-way up she suddenly stopped and turned back towards Gabrielle who still at the bottom of the steps and gave her an unhappy look. Realizing that the woman was clearly waiting on her, Gabrielle walked up the stairs and followed Xena as the guards appeared to recognize Xena and opened the doors, allowing all three of them to enter. Inside Gabrielle followed the other two up another set of stairs and down a small hallway until they came to a large pair of doors with a couple of guards standing in front. They, too, recognized Xena but didn't move as the trio stopped in front of them.
GUARD
My lord Conqueror, what brings you here on this fine day?
XENA
Petrodes in?
GUARD
Yes my lord.
XENA
Good that makes my life easier.
Xena then proceeded to effortlessly shove the guards out of the way and threw the doors open with a loud thud as they collided with the walls behind them on the other side. The noise startled the man who was sittng with his back to the doors, causing him to jump slightly before he turned to look behind his chair to see his unexpected guests as Xena flashed an insincere smile.
XENA
(Ominous tone) Hello Petrodes. Long time no see.
Gabrielle looked at the large, decadent room that she, the Conqueror, and who Gabrielle assumed was the Conqueror's top general, Leonidas, had barged into. She stood just inside near the doorway, watching the Conqueror, who was wearing a feral smile as she took a few more steps into the room and spoke to the man who had nearly been scared out of his chair when she abruptly burst into the room.
XENA
What's the matter, Petrodes? Not happy to see me?
The man, Petrodes, stood and faced the Conqueror, attempting to put up an air of bravado that Gabrielle couldn't tell was real or not as he spoke.
PETRODES
(Arrogant tone) Well if it isn't the mighty Xena herself?
Xena scowled at the use of her name in such a casual way. No one called her just by her name, not even those she considered to be her closest allies. It was always something along the lines of "my lord Conqueror," "my lord," "my Conqueror." Sometimes, on very rare occasions, she would get something like "her lord Conqueror, Xena." But never just her actual name. She took it as a blatant show of disrespect, especially considering the way that Petrodes had said it. It was obvious to Xena that he had indeed intended it to come across that way. Normally, she would kill someone who dared to disrespect her in such a manner, but Xena reminded herself of Petrodes' status and knew that outright killing him without any actual reason would only cause her more problems in the long run. So, for the time being, Xena kept her composure and attempted to handle the situation diplomatically, as difficult as it might be due to the unpleasantly familiar feeling she got from this man that reminded her of another enemy who always found a way of getting under her skin like no one else ever could.
PETRODES
So, tell me, to what do I owe the pleasure of your gracing me with your presence?
XENA
Don't play dumb with me, Petrodes. You know why I'm here.
PETRODES
Oh yes, of course.
Xena watched as Petrodes casually strolled over to a table, poured some wine into a goblet, and then picked it up.
PETRODES
Can I offer you a drink?
He smiled, but Xena knew that it was all a ruse. She and Petrodes had never gotten along, and why would they? She wanted his city, and he was the last holdout in the area who hadn't either completely surrendered or voluntarily pledged their loyalty to her. And that bothered Xena to no end. After all, her goal was to completely unite all of Greece under her rule. Since she had started on this venture several years ago, she had gathered a fairly large portion of the country under her ownership, to mixed reviews by those she had taken under her sovereignty. But whether people agreed with her or not wasn't Xena's concern. Her focus was on uniting Greece and molding it into a thriving land where no one would dare come up against anyone or any place under her watchful eyes ever again.
XENA
I'm good.
Petrodes shrugged as he took a sip from his cup.
PETRODES
Suit yourself.
He then walked over and sat in a large chair, reclining in the seat as he casually sipped his wine.
PETRODES
I suppose you want to get straight to business.
XENA
Well, I'm certainly not here for the fun of it.
PETRODES
(Sarcastically) Oh, why Xena, I'm hurt. And here I thought we were becoming friends.
He chuckled as Leonidas could see the Conqueror's patience with this man already beginning to wear thin. But then Xena smiled, and Leonidas knew that Petrodes wasn't going to like what happened next.
XENA
Friends, huh?
LEONIDAS
(Quietly) Um, my lord, you wanted me to remind you...
Xena didn't look at her top commander as she spoke to him.
XENA
There's no need to worry, Leonidas. You heard the man; he wants us to be friends.
Xena walked over to where Petrodes had placed the open bottle of wine, picked it up, and took a drink straight from the bottle.
XENA
Hm, not bad.
Petrodes smiled as he raised his goblet in a toast.
PETRODES
To a profitable new friendship.
With a smile on her face, Xena raised the bottle in a cheers. Then, she slowly turned the bottle upside-down and let the red liquid pour out onto the light-colored rug under her feet as the smile was replaced by a scowl. Meanwhile, Petrodes watched in horror as his expensive rug was completely ruined. After emptying the bottle, Xena looked at it and then at the rug.
XENA
(Flat tone) Woops.
Xena then casually tossed the empty bottle over her shoulder, hearing it shatter when it hit the floor behind her.
XENA
(Flat tone) My bad.
Petrodes scowled as he stood.
PETRODES
(Angry tone) Now, what do you think you're doing?
XENA
Not playing your stupid little games anymore.
Xena walked up to the man, looking over his ridiculous attire that, in all honesty, looked more Roman than Greek.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) He reminds me so much of that son of a bitch Caesar. I just want...
Xena clenched her fist as she glared at him intensely.
LEONIDAS
My lord, the negotiations.
Xena looked at Leonidas for a moment, then back at the man before her.
XENA
Yes, the negotiations.
She leaned closer to Petrodes, and he instinctively went to back away, but with the couch right behind him, he only fell back into a sitting position.
XENA
I want full loyalty from Olympia, and I fully intend to get it.
Petrodes smirked.
PETRODES
And what are you going to do if I don't give in to your demands, Xena? Kill me?
An evil smile found its way to Xena's face.
XENA
Now, that's not a bad idea.
Before Petrodes could move, Xena pulled out a dagger and held it to the man's throat.
XENA
So tell me, Petrodes, what do you say to my demands now?
Leonidas sighed to himself.
LEONIDAS
(Talking to himself) I was afraid this would happen.
Gabrielle stood very uncomfortably by the turn of events as she watched the Conqueror physically threatening the leader of the city's life. And all because he wouldn't surrender to her.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) This woman really is as vicious and uncaring as I've heard. Even her own soldier is clearly not happy with this situation. Gods, if I don't find a way to get away from her, who knows what she'll do to me the second I don't give in to what she wants.
Petrodes leaned back as far as he could as he felt the sharp blade pressed against his windpipe.
PETRODES
You know, now that I think about it, there might be some more room for further discussion on the matter.
The Conqueror gave a dangerously satisfied smile.
XENA
That's more like it.
She pulled the dagger away as she stood up straight but didn't take her eyes off the man in front of her.
XENA
Now, where were we?
Suddenly, Xena heard multiple footsteps coming from behind her and swiftly drew her sword, with Leonidas doing the same. They, along with Gabrielle, all turned around to see a group of armed men rushing into the room. Gabrielle's blood went cold when she saw one of the men step out in front of the others.
HECTOR
You were about to get some news that you're not going to be too pleased to hear.
Xena looked at Hector and the men behind him and scowled.
XENA
Hector, what in Tartarus are you doing here?
HECTOR
I'm completely free to come here anytime I please, Xena. As you're clearly very well aware, you don't own this city.
XENA
Not at the moment. But as you can see, we were in the middle of some negotiations before you so very rudely interrupted. Now, if you don't mind.
With Xena's attention drawn elsewhere, Petrodes took the opportunity to move from the couch and scurry away from Xena's immediate reach. He hurried over to where Hector stood, and the unhappy look on Xena's face grew more intense as she began to put together what was happening.
PETRODES
It's about time you showed up.
HECTOR
Well, you weren't supposed to piss her off and put yourself in that kind of position.
Petrodes scowled.
PETRODES
We both know that's far easier said than done when it comes to Xena.
HECTOR
Yeah, well, we're here now, so shut up and stay out of the way.
PETRODES
Fine. As long as Draco's good on his word.
HECTOR
Yeah, yeah, as long as you don't cause him problems, he'll honor your agreement.
XENA
Now, isn't this a fascinating little conversation you're having? So which one of you wants to fill me in?
Hector smiled at her.
HECTOR
Simple, Xena. You aren't the only one who wants power for themselves. Unbeknownst to you, Draco's been working on gathering up his own foothold.
XENA
Ha! It's not as though that amounts to very much as a whole, given that the majority of the land across Greece falls under my control.
HECTOR
Funny, I never said anything about it just being Greece. Draco's been making moves all over the place, and you never even knew about it. Though Greece is in the works, which is what brings me here today. Olympia is one of the first to swear their allegiance to Draco, with the rest of Greece to soon follow.
XENA
Over my dead body.
HECTOR
That's the plan.
Hector looked at the large group of soldiers behind him.
HECTOR
You know what to do.
SOLDIER
For Draco!
The soldiers then proceeded to rush toward Xena and Leonidas. Steel clashed as a fight ensued. Xena used her sword to block an incoming strike and shoved the soldier back before stabbing at his midsection where he had a gap in his armor. Blood began to pour from the open flesh as Xena pulled her sword out, and he grabbed at his stomach as he backed away. But it was pointless, as with an aggressive yell, the Conqueror lunged forward and with expert precision slashed across the man's throat. He let out a sickening gurgle as he began to choke on his own blood before he fell to the floor at Xena's feet. Xena looked at his rapidly dying body with cold, unfeeling eyes before hearing a yell behind her. Without looking, the Conqueror rotated her blade downward and thrust it back, plunging it into another soldier's stomach. After giving it a quick twist, Xena yanked the blood-covered weapon from the man's body, and he too fell to the ground and died. Meanwhile, Leonidas was fighting off his own opponent. He threw an elbow into the soldier's face and shattered his nose. Then, with his opponent staggered, Leonidas drove his sword into the man's stomach, practically lifting him off the ground, before using his foot to shove the soldier back off of his blade and letting him drop to the floor. He then continued to fight off other soldiers that came his way. With utter chaos surrounding her, scared and not knowing what to do, Gabrielle found herself backed into a wall as she watched the fighting and bloodshed that ensued. She looked around and noticed that she had a clear path to the doorway. Realizing that with the Conqueror and everyone else there distracted, she had the perfect opening she needed to finally escape. Gabrielle quickly but quietly moved towards the door. She jumped back when a body of a soldier landed in front of her, and she stood completely still as she looked over at the fighting, unsure if she had been spotted. Fortunately for her, it seemed as though the Conqueror and her top commander were too focused on the fighting and hadn't noticed her. So carefully, Gabrielle stepped over the dead body as she continued towards the exit. She was nearly out of the room when someone stepped in front of her, blocking her path to freedom.
HECTOR
(Angry tone) You... I can't believe you're actually still alive.
Gabrielle backed away slightly as a feeling of dread fell over her.
HECTOR
You're a real troublemaker, you know that. But at least now I get to bring you to Draco myself.
He smiled as he saw the multiple bruises that still hadn't completely faded away.
HECTOR
Then again, Draco does already think that one of the girls died after falling into the river. So I guess killing you won't hurt. Well, it won't hurt me at least.
(Sinister tone) You, on the other hand...
Gabrielle found herself frozen in place as Hector raised his sword and then began to drive it down towards her. Her fate appeared sealed as Gabrielle stood unable to move with Hector's blade coming in to finish what he had started and kill Gabrielle right where she now stood.
A blade coming towards her, Gabrielle stood terrified and unable to move as Hector swung at her. With her life seemingly at its end, Gabrielle braced herself for her painful demise. Time almost seemed to slow as the blade came just inches before cutting her, then, before Gabrielle knew how it happened, a strong hand suddenly latched onto Hector's wrist, stopping his swing just before it made contact with Gabrielle's shoulder.
HECTOR
What the f...
As he spoke, Hector turned his head and was stopped mid-word by a fist colliding with the side of his face. He staggered a few steps as his arm was released. He then turned back to face Gabrielle and his attacker with fury in his eyes, as Gabrielle couldn't believe hers. She didn't know why, but for whatever reason, she had just been saved by the Conqueror, as the woman now stood in front of her facing Hector. The man scowled at her as he felt the pain of being hit so hard it had staggered him.
HECTOR
That girl has nothing to do with you, Xena. She's an escaped would-be slave and belongs to Draco.
Xena smirked.
XENA
Not anymore.
HECTOR
What do you care about some random farm girl?
XENA
I don't. But it's clear that Draco, or at least you, do. And that's good enough for me.
HECTOR
So is that how it's gonna be?
XENA
Well, since Draco seems to think that he can try and take what's mine, then I think turn about is fair play. The girl's mine now, and if you or Draco want to come get her, you're both more than welcome to try. The same goes for anything that belongs to me. So you tell Draco that if he wants to try and take what's mine, he's going to have to pry it from my cold, dead hands.
HECTOR
Be careful what you say, Xena. Draco's gained more power than you know. Your days of being Conqueror of Greece are coming to an end.
XENA
(Quiet, angry tone) Am I supposed to be afraid? This isn't the first time I've dealt with Draco, but I can guarantee it WILL be the last.
HECTOR
You're right, Xena. It will be.
Hector then gave a yell to the remainder of Draco's men, who Xena or Leonidas hadn't killed, to tell them to retreat. Then, without taking his eyes off Xena, Hector too backed away.
HECTOR
This isn't over, Xena. Not even close. Draco and his allies are coming for you.
Xena glared at the man intensely as she clenched the handle of her sword in rage.
XENA
(Quiet, angry tone) Let 'em.
And then Hector and the rest of Draco's men were gone, leaving just the Conqueror, Leonidas, and Gabrielle in the room. Leonidas walked up to stand beside her as she stood fuming from the unexpected turn of events.
LEONIDAS
What do we do now, my lord?
Xena sheathed her blade.
XENA
We prepare.
(Quiet, angry tone) If Draco wants a fight, he's got one.
LEONIDAS
Then I suppose that we'll be...
Their conversation was interrupted when they heard noise behind them, and they both turned to see Petrodes trying to climb out of a window.
XENA
Now would you look at that, Leonidas. It looks like Hector left behind some of his trash.
Realizing that he'd been noticed, Petrodes frantically began trying to get out of the window as fast as he could. He was hanging halfway out of the window when he felt himself being grabbed and dragged back inside as he screamed for help to anyone who might be able to hear. He was thrown to the floor as the Conqueror stood over him.
XENA
Leonidas.
LEONIDAS
Yes, my lord?
XENA
(Sinister tone) Lock and barricade the doors. I wouldn't want our little meeting to have any further interruptions.
LEONIDAS
As you wish.
Leonidas walked to the doors, closed and locked them as Petrodes began to yell as loud as she could for anyone to help him. But his cries went unheard as Gabrielle witnessed firsthand a glimpse into the brutality and ruthlessness that the Conqueror was capable of. Xena threw punch after punch to the man's face and body before lifting him up and slamming him straight through a table. With several sharp wooden splinters from the broken table embedded in his back, Petrodes begged for mercy as he tried to crawl away from the enraged Conqueror. His face smeared crimson as blood ran from his nose and mouth. He yelled in pain and fear as he felt Xena's boot stomp onto his leg. Petrodes rolled onto his back as he tried to pull away but was unable as he looked up to see a crazed, sadistic smile appear on Xena's face. He again tried to plead for Xena to stop, but his words went ignored as the Conqueror lifted her foot still on the floor and brought it down onto his leg. He instantly screamed in agony as he felt the bone in his lower leg snap. He used his other leg to kick Xena off of him. She stepped back and watched with remorseless eyes as Petrodes grabbed at his shattered leg and used an arm and his uninjured leg to try and escape Xena's wrath. But the Conqueror wouldn't be denied her vengeance as she walked over and casually stepped on Petrodes' hand. He tried to push her away but was met with a fist to the side of his head. Everything went fuzzy for a moment as he fell flat before being brought back to reality by more pain as he continued to be mercilessly beaten. All the while, Gabrielle had retreated into a corner of the room. She looked on in horror for a bit until, unable to watch any more, she closed her eyes and covered her ears as she tried to block out the horrible scene. But despite her efforts, Gabrielle could still hear the man's tormented screams, until she couldn't. After some time, Gabrielle peeked open an eye to see the Conqueror standing over a beaten and bloodied man. Her knuckles red from both Petrodes' blood and her own, from the force of her repeated strikes opening the skin that unbeknownst to Gabrielle had been scarred over multiple times from this very type of behavior. The woman huffed as she caught her breath and brushed her dark, tousled hair out of her face. She looked down at the motionless Petrodes at her feet as she gave a satisfied smile. Certain that he had regretted his foolish decision to turn against her and ally himself with her enemies. Gabrielle watched as the Conqueror walked away from the motionless Petrodes and over to the window. She grabbed the curtain that hung there and used it to wipe the blood from her hands. She then went back over to the man and gave him a nudge with her boot. After getting a better look at him, Gabrielle was certain that someone in the condition the man they called Petrodes was in, must be dead. But then she heard him make a low groan.
XENA
(Cold tone) Good, you're not dead... yet.
She crouched down and stared into Petrodes' swollen eyes, examining her handiwork and the blood that now covered the man's distorted face.
XENA
Well, Petrodes, it looks like I'll be taking over your city after all.
She grabbed a handful of his hair and lifted his head, forcing him to meet her gaze.
XENA
(Cold tone) You should have just let the negotiations proceed as originally planned and lived out the rest of your pathetic little life as my minister for this city. But you decided to play a game that you didn't even know all the rules to, and you lost. And now, you'll pay the ultimate price.
Xena roughly let go of the severely beaten man and stood up. She held her sword and looked down at Petrodes with an icy stare.
XENA
(Cold tone) Have fun in the afterlife.
Gabrielle watched as the Conqueror took her sword and raised it above her head, then turned the blade down and gripped the handle with both hands as a panicked Petrodes begged for his life.
PETRODES
(Weak/ terrified tone) No, no, please, I'm sorry. I... ugh...
Petrodes raised his hands in a frantic attempt to stop the Conqueror, but Xena, without a shred of remorse, drove her blade into Petrodes' chest. She watched it sink into his flesh as far as it would go, and then watched as the life left Petrodes' eyes and his arms fell to his sides. He layed there, with his eyes open but unseeing, as after a moment Xena pulled her blood-covered weapon from his body. She grabbed the decorative scarf he was wearing and wiped the blood from her blade before returning the weapon to its sheath and casually dropping the cloth as she turned and headed for the door.
XENA
We're done here. Let's head home.
LEONIDAS
Right behind you, my lord.
As she was leaving, Xena spotted Gabrielle huddled in a corner with an expression of terror painted on her face. Their eyes met, and Gabrielle immediately looked away, now even more terrified of the woman than she had been before. Unphased by the fact that she might have traumatized the young woman, the Conqueror continued walking.
XENA
Don't forget about the girl. Thanks to Draco's buddy Hector, I now have plans for her.
Gabrielle felt her stomach drop as she heard the Conqueror, and a million terrifying thoughts raced through her mind once again. A hand rested on her shoulder when Leonidas approached her. After witnessing what the Conqueror had done to the now dead leader of the city, Gabrielle had no intentions of willingly going any further with this madwoman. She pulled away from Leonidas, backing up as Xena and Leonidas looked at her.
GABRIELLE
I'm not going anywhere with you, you maniac.
Leonidas glanced at Xena, who scowled at Gabrielle.
XENA
(Angry tone) Listen, little girl, I'm in no mood for games right now. So watch your tongue and either come along willingly or else.
Gabrielle continued backing away, her eyes searching for an escape. But aside from the third-floor windows, the only way out of the room was the doorway that the Conqueror and her soldier stood blocking a path to. She was about to take her chances with the window when she felt a firm grip on her arm. Gabrielle immediately fought to free herself from Leonidas, who held her arm with one hand. As Gabrielle yelled and struggled, Leonidas tried to restrain her without causing harm. He glanced back at Xena, unsure of what to do, and she growled in frustration.
XENA
(Angry tone) I've dealt with enough crap today to put up with this.
Gabrielle saw the enraged woman approaching and fought harder to break free, but then felt a sharp jab to her neck, and then everything quickly faded to black.
XENA
Now let's get out of here. We'll figure out what to do about Draco and her when we get back.
Xena left the room, with Leonidas following as he carried an unconscious Gabrielle in his arms. They regrouped with the rest of Xena's army and rode out of Olympia. Gabrielle rode with Leonidas, who was beside Xena. Unconscious and unaware of her destination, Gabrielle's life was about to take another drastic turn. She had now been taken as if she were some kind of property or bargaining tool to be used as the Conqueror saw fit. But what would actually unfold would be a series of events that no one, least of all Gabrielle or the Conqueror herself, could have ever predicted.
Roused by a steady movement and the sound of hooves clicking against the hardened earth, the world gradually came into focus as Gabrielle opened her eyes. She found herself looking at the ground as it passed beneath her, her arms bound together by a piece of rope. She also realized there was a cloth tied around her head, with a part of it pushed into her mouth to prevent her from yelling. She struggled against her restraints and made muffled groans in an attempt to free herself, before hearing a voice speak right next to her.
XENA
Quit squirming unless you want to take another nap.
Realizing that she was riding a horse with the Conqueror, Gabrielle groaned into the cloth louder and began frantically kicking her legs, trying to get away from the woman she had watched savagely beat and then kill a man without showing any remorse. As she moved and tried to practically throw herself from the horse in order to escape, Gabrielle felt her hair being roughly grabbed. Her head was forcefully lifted up, and she locked eyes with the Conqueror.
XENA
(Angry tone) I said quit squirming. Or else.
Terrified, Gabrielle could feel tears beginning to roll from her eyes. She moaned into the cloth and stopped struggling, realizing it was pointless. Seeing that Gabrielle had settled down, Xena let go of her hair and returned her hand to the reins of her horse.
XENA
That's a good girl. You just sit tight and behave yourself. We'll be there soon.
Gabrielle lowered her head, returning her gaze to the ground. She wondered where exactly she was being taken and, more importantly, what would happen to her once they arrived.
LEONIDAS
Ah, always such a welcoming sight after being away for so long.
It was nearly dark as Gabrielle felt the horse come to a halt. She raised her head to see a very large fortress up ahead. Even given her current situation, Gabrielle couldn't help but be awestruck by the magnitude of the structure. She then heard yelling and saw the large gate being opened as the horse carrying her and the Conqueror began to enter the keep grounds, with the rest of the group following closely behind. After riding for a few more minutes, the horse stopped again, and Gabrielle saw a number of people come over to the group. The others dismounted their horses and unhooked the pouches and bags attached to the saddles. Then a woman came over to where she and the Conqueror had stopped.
?
My lord, you've returned. I hope you had a pleasant trip.
Xena only grumbled in response, still fuming over what had happened as a result of Hector's unexpected appearance. Noting the Conqueror's sour mood, the woman quickly changed the subject.
?
Well, it's good to have you and everyone else back safely. I'm sure you're all famished and tired from such a long trip. If you wish, I'll have a grand meal prepared to celebrate your return.
XENA
That'll be fine.
?
Yes, my lord. I'll also have a hot bath and clean clothes waiting in your private quarters when you're ready. And...
The woman paused as she finally noticed the bound and gagged Gabrielle draped over the saddle in front of Xena.
?
I see you've returned with an addition to your party. A prisoner from battle?
XENA
In a manner of speaking.
?
Should I call for a guard to have her escorted to the dungeons?
XENA
No, I don't think that'll be necessary.
?
Prepare the gallows?
Gabrielle's eyes widened at the word "gallows," wondering why the Conqueror would keep her alive only to bring her there to be hanged.
XENA
Now, why would I bother bringing someone like her back with me if all I was going to do was kill her?
?
Fair point. Apologies. The servant's quarters then?
XENA
Actually, I haven't fully decided what to do with her yet, so for tonight, just have her cleaned up and sent to my quarters when you're done.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Sent to her quarters?! Oh gods, she isn't going to...
Gabrielle didn't even want to finish that thought.
?
Ah, I see. As you wish, my lord.
Xena dismounted and grabbed Gabrielle, who squirmed to get out of her grasp as she was lowered to the ground. Once her feet hit the earth, Gabrielle felt the Conqueror grab her chin in a strong grasp.
XENA
(Stern tone) You're going to go with this woman. Do everything she says. Don't try anything stupid like trying to escape, and don't give her or anyone else trouble, got it?
Gabrielle nodded as much as she could with Xena holding her chin.
XENA
(Stern tone) I don't have to warn you about disobeying, do I?
Gabrielle made a muffled groan.
XENA
Good. And I guess now that we're here, you don't need this anymore.
Xena undid the cloth gag and tossed it to the other woman.
XENA
Yelling for help won't do you any good here. Everything and everyone in this keep belongs to me in one way or another, so it'll only be a waste of time to try.
Gabrielle didn't say anything, but she looked at the Conqueror with a mix of fear and hatred in her eyes.
XENA
Good to see you understand.
Xena turned her attention to the other woman.
XENA
I'll leave her to you then. You can untie her if you want. It's not like she can do anything here. I only had her tied because she was giving me a bit of trouble after our meeting with Petrodes, but she seems to have calmed down, so she shouldn't give you any problems.
Xena glanced over at Gabrielle.
XENA
Right?
Afraid of angering her captor, Gabrielle knew that she didn't have much of a choice but to do as she was told.
GABRIELLE
Yes.
Satisfied with the reply, Xena smirked at the woman whose name Gabrielle didn't know.
XENA
There you go.
With that, Gabrielle watched as the Conqueror began walking towards the large doors of the main building in front of them. After a few steps, the Conqueror looked over her shoulder and called back to the unknown woman.
XENA
Oh, and before she's brought to me, have the girl looked at by one of the healers too. When I found her, she was pretty banged up, so I'd like a full inspection of her current condition just so I know what I'm working with.
?
Of course, my lord.
With a nod of satisfaction, the Conqueror continued walking towards the building. Gabrielle's attention was drawn away from Xena as she heard the other woman speak to her.
?
Well, come along, um...
The young woman giggled.
?
Oh, I'm sorry. I guess we weren't formally introduced, were we? What was your name?
GABRIELLE
(Quietly) It's Gabrielle.
?
Nice to meet you, Gabrielle. My name's Elle.
The seemingly friendly young woman placed her hand on Gabrielle's back and began guiding her along as they walked inside. As they entered the building, Gabrielle looked back and contemplated whether or not she should make a run for it. After hearing the Conqueror say she would be brought to her room, Gabrielle began to think that she'd rather be dead than let someone like that woman touch her or do gods know what to her. But by the time this thought had crossed Gabrielle's mind, she was already inside and the doors were closed behind them, seemingly sealing her fate.
With a slew of disturbing thoughts of what potentially lay ahead for her, Gabrielle followed the young woman named Elle through the building that she assumed was the Conqueror's residence when she wasn't out terrorizing innocent people or doing whatever else the woman did. With her head hung low, Gabrielle walked quietly behind the other woman who looked to be about the same age as Gabrielle, possibly a little older. This fact made Gabrielle wonder what could have brought such a seemingly young and unassuming woman to come into the service of the Conqueror. Was she like Gabrielle, a captive that was taken for whatever reason the Conqueror felt was called for? A servant? An outright slave that the Conqueror kept along with who knew how many others meant to cater to her every beck and call without question? So many more questions ran through Gabrielle's mind as she looked at the young woman. Elle was of average build, just slightly taller than Gabrielle, and had fair skin with long, flowing red hair that she wore down with some slight natural waves and curls to it. She had on a long blue dress with some simple golden designs around the neck, around the bottom of the dress, and where her sleeves connected to the torso of the dress. The blue color of the dress matched the young woman's eyes, along with the small gem that she wore around her neck, which Gabrielle figured was probably cheap or a worthless fake if the woman was a slave or servant. Although if she were the Conqueror's slave, how would she have gotten it or the fairly nice-looking dress to begin with? Gabrielle thought that it was possible if she was a slave, maybe the Conqueror had the slaves she would see more or all the slaves she might have wear decent clothing so she wasn't looking at people walking around in rags. Though she wondered about the woman's exact status within the keep, Gabrielle didn't ask as she didn't want to possibly upset the seemingly friendly girl if she was, in fact, being held there against her will. Gabrielle's thoughts were interrupted when Elle stopped in front of a door and opened it.
ELLE
This way, Gabrielle. We'll get you checked out by a healer first.
Gabrielle walked into the room and was fully examined by one of the women there. She had the multiple cuts and scrapes cleaned, and fortunately, none were too deep or had heated enough to not require stitches or bandages. Her injured ribs were also significantly better than they had been, but just as a precaution, the healer wrapped some fresh bandages around her just to make sure Gabrielle would fully heal properly. Saying that they could probably come off in a few days to a week. After being asked how she got hurt, Gabrielle told the healer and Elle about her escape from Hector and the rest of the slavers. She began to cry as the thoughts of her sister and mother and where they might be now.
ELLE
It sounds like you've been through a lot. I'm sure it isn't much comfort, but for what it's worth, I'm really sorry that you had to go through that.
Gabrielle sniffled as she wiped the still-flowing tears from her eyes and cheeks as the healer finished her work.
GABRIELLE
Thank you.
Once Gabrielle was dressed Elle walked to the door and held it open.
ELLE
Come on, we should get going. Don't wanna keep her lordship waiting.
Elle lead Gabrielle out of the healers area as she began making her way towards the Conqueror's quarters.
ELLE
So after you escaped from those slavers, how did you end up with the lord Conqueror?
GABRIELLE
I wandered around for a while before spotting her camp in the distance. I was so exhausted when I stumbled across her and didn't know who she was when I asked for help before I passed out. The next thing I know, I'm in her tent and then she just takes me with her.
With a sad expression on her face, Gabrielle looked down at the floor as they walked.
GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) I just wanna go home. I want my family back.
Tears once again streamed down her face as everything she'd been through, witnessed, and the fact that her future now seemed so bleak in that moment all overwhelmed her.
GABRIELLE
I, I don't want to be here with that woman. She scares me so much. After seeing what she did to that man...
Gabrielle tried to push aside the memory of seeing Petrodes being brutally beaten, hearing his screams as he begged both for mercy and for someone to help him. Neither of which he received, as Gabrielle remembered hearing his last yell before he was finally killed by the Conqueror.
ELLE
The lord Conqueror does things for a reason. She doesn't just kill people simply for the fun of it.
Gabrielle looked at Elle as they continued walking.
GABRIELLE
Is that supposed to make me feel better? She killed him because she wanted his city. Is that what she does? Just brutalizes and kills people who don't immediately give in to what she wants? I guess that's your reason, huh?
She then lowered her gaze back to the floor once more as the fear of what was going to happen when she was brought to the Conqueror tightened its hold over her.
GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) And what's she gonna do if I don't give her whatever she wants from me?
The other woman didn't say anything as she felt sorry for this new girl whose whole world had been turned completely upside-down. In such a short time, she had gone from her simple life in a small village to finding herself fighting just for survival, to being brought against her will to a place that was so far from home and held there by a woman whose arbitrary mood at any given time could decide the poor girl's fate. Though they had just met, Elle found herself already liking Gabrielle and felt terrible that she had gone through such harrowing experiences. She didn't want to scare her any more than she obviously already was, but honestly, Elle didn't know what the Conqueror had planned to do with Gabrielle. She had several ideas, some of which she truly hoped weren't what Xena had in mind. But there was never any real way of telling what the Conqueror was truly thinking, as she was a woman who typically kept her most inner thoughts, feelings, and intentions concealed from everyone around her.
ELLE
Well, I'm sure if you listen and do as she asks, you'll be okay.
Gabrielle found no comfort in Elle's statement as they continued on in silence as the two came to a set of stairs, and Elle gestured for Gabrielle to go ahead of her. Gabrielle began ascending the spiraling staircase that led up multiple levels until they reached the top floor of the fortress. At the top of the stairs was a door that sat just a few feet from the steps. Elle walked ahead and grabbed hold of the door's handle.
ELLE
Here we are, her lord Conqueror's personal quarters.
Elle knocked as she announced herself and got a simple reply from the other side of the door to come in. Recognizing the voice as the Conqueror, Gabrielle felt a chill run down her spine as her legs began to shake. She wanted to run, she wanted to find a way out of there or somewhere to hide. But she couldn't bring herself to move from where she stood as she watched Elle turn the door's handle and push it open.
ELLE
Okay, come on in.
Gabrielle felt the other woman put her hand on her back and essentially force her uncooperative legs to carry her inside.
XENA
About time you got her up here.
Gabrielle stood just inside the large room that she had been forced into and saw the Conqueror lounging in a large pile of pillows on the floor as she casually popped a grape into her mouth from the spread of food that was laid out before her.
ELLE
Sorry, my lord, I know you don't like to be kept waiting. The healer wanted to make sure she did a thorough examination.
XENA
Whatever. You're here now, so I suppose it's fine.
Gabrielle saw as the Conqueror looked her up and down for a moment and felt her stomach drop when the woman told Elle to leave them. With a bow of her head, Elle turned around and left the room, shutting the door behind her and leaving Gabrielle locked in the room alone with the Conqueror.
XENA
Come.
The Conqueror motioned for Gabrielle to come over to her as she patted a pillow near her. Gabrielle found herself too afraid to move toward the woman, so instead, she backed into the locked door behind her and tried frantically to turn the knob to escape. The Conqueror's eyes never left Gabrielle as she watched her attempt at leaving for a moment before speaking again.
XENA
You make me get up, and you won't like what happens.
(Stern tone) Now get over here. I won't say it again.
Not wanting her fate to be worse than what she already feared, Gabrielle slowly walked over to where the Conqueror lay and knelt down on a pillow near the woman.
XENA
See, that wasn't so difficult, now was it?
Gabrielle watched as the woman put aside the food and turned toward her, and she felt her blood run cold as she heard the Conqueror's next words.
XENA
Now shall we get started? And if you're smart, you won't make things more difficult than they need to be.
Not knowing what to do, Gabrielle began to tremble as she knelt before the Conqueror, who sat eyeing her.
GABRIELLE
Please, don't do this. Please, I...
Gabrielle didn't know what else to say other than beg the woman sitting there not to hurt her. With an emotionless face, Xena sat watching the young woman as she pleaded for the Conqueror not to harm her. After listening to her for a few moments, Xena found herself annoyed by Gabrielle's pleas.
XENA
(Stern tone) Quiet!
Gabrielle jumped slightly at the sudden shout. She fell silent, lowering her gaze from the woman, and trying to control her fearful trembling as she waited for what she assumed was coming. Meanwhile, Xena watched her for another moment, her face unreadable as she finally spoke again.
XENA
(Stern tone) Are you done?
Gabrielle didn't know what to say, so she just remained silent, staring down at the pillows beneath her.
XENA
(Stern tone) I asked you a question.
Gabrielle felt the other woman grab her chin in a firm grip and force her to look her in the eyes. Gabrielle's terror-filled eyes met the Conqueror's intense, steely gaze.
XENA
Well?
Gabrielle fought back her tears as she tried to figure out what the woman wanted to hear.
GABRIELLE
(Scared tone) Please, don't hurt me.
XENA
(Stern tone) Then don't make me have to keep repeating myself, and I won't.
Xena released Gabrielle from her grasp and leaned back into the pillows.
XENA
Now I'll ask one more time. Are you done sitting there crying and acting like a child?
GABRIELLE
(Quiet tone) Yes.
XENA
Good. Now, where to begin?
Feeling that there was no way out and resigning to her fate, Gabrielle closed her eyes. She silently prayed to any gods that might have been listening, hoping that whatever was about to happen would be over quickly. With nervous hands, she reached up and began untying the lace on the front of her blouse.
XENA
(Stern tone) Stop. What are you doing?
Gabrielle froze, opening her eyes and looking at the Conqueror with a scared, confused expression.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) I... I thought..
(Thinking to herself) Does she want to do it herself? Gods, what do I do? I don't know if I can get through this.
Seemingly out of nowhere, Xena began to chuckle. Gabrielle slowly lowered her hands, utterly confused about what was going on. After a moment, the Conqueror calmed down and shook her head in apparent disbelief, sighing to herself.
XENA
(Chuckling) What exactly did you think I brought you up here to do?
GABRIELLE
Well, we're in your private quarters, and with the way you're laying. Then you said we were getting started. Based on everything I've heard, I just thought you wanted... you were going to um...
XENA
You thought I was going to force myself on you.
Gabrielle nodded slightly, hearing the Conqueror scoff and look away as she muttered to herself.
XENA
(Muttering) Some of the things people think I do.
Xena waved her hand dismissively.
XENA
Well, you can relax. I have no interest in taking your innocence or whatever else people say I do to women.
Xena glanced back at Gabrielle and raised her eyebrow, flashing a smirk.
XENA
Not to say I'm not enjoying the little show you're giving me right now though.
Gabrielle felt her face get hot as she quickly pulled her top closed after realizing that it had opened, nearly exposing her breasts. She turned away and retied her blouse as the brief moment of embarrassment passed, giving way to an incredible rush of relief that the Conqueror apparently didn't want to use her for her body.
XENA
Well, if you're done being ridiculous...
The Conqueror picked up a small bunch of grapes, plucking one and popping it in her mouth. She chewed it and swallowed before continuing to speak.
XENA
I'd like to get this out of the way. It's getting late, and I plan on making it an early night.
(Thinking to herself) All those weeks of traveling and dealing with people's crap has me beat.
Gabrielle didn't say anything, not knowing what the Conqueror actually wanted from her. So she remained silent and waited for the other woman to continue.
XENA
Given what happened with Hector, it's clear now that you aren't some kind of spy or anything. For reasons I'm sure you heard me say already, I've decided to keep you here with me until either Draco wants you back or I decide otherwise. But now the question is what do I do with you while you're here?
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Why not just let me go?
XENA
I'm sure you're thinking that I could just release you and send you on your merry way. That would probably really piss Draco off, right?
Xena smirked at the somewhat surprised look on Gabrielle's face after she said what Gabrielle was thinking before continuing on.
XENA
Yes, well, while I'm sure he doesn't like the fact that he lost the profits or benefits he'd get from whatever he inevitably chose to do with you, I know that once he finds out that I have one of his would-be slaves in my possession, he'll see it as being even worse, to know that I, of all people, now have something he sees as belonging to him.
(Sinister tone) If he wants to try and take what's mine, he'll soon learn that coming up against me was the biggest mistake he could have ever made.
Although Gabrielle had only just stumbled into this world of people fighting over the possession of land or apparently for control over all of Greece entirely, it was clear that there had already been some serious animosity between the Conqueror and this man they called Draco before what took place in Olympia. Though the events there had obviously amplified whatever issues or conflicts the two already must have had between them.
XENA
But while I'm waiting to see just how much Draco cares about his missing little would-be slave, we come back to the question of what do I do with you until then?
Xena ate a couple more grapes as she looked at Gabrielle, trying to figure out what she wanted to do with her.
XENA
Gabrielle, wasn't it? You said you're from Potidea. It's been quite some time since I've been around there. Is it still primarily a farming village?
GABRIELLE
It is.
Gabrielle watched as the Conqueror appeared to think for a moment.
XENA
(Thinking out loud) Hmm. Well, I don't really have any need for more farmhands. The garden is already well tended to, and we get all our meats and produce from a few different sources delivered regularly.
Xena studied Gabrielle for a moment.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) She's a bit on the small side, even though she grew up in a farming area. I doubt she did any of the actual farm work. Not the more physically demanding aspects of it, anyway.
She looked Gabrielle over for another moment, seeing an uncomfortable expression appear on the young woman's face as she was being stared at.
XENA
Out of curiosity, Gabrielle, how old are you?
GABRIELLE
Seventeen. I'll be eighteen mid next season.
Xena studied Gabrielle for another moment, almost not believing her based on how young she appeared.
XENA
Really.
GABRIELLE
Why would I lie about such a thing?
XENA
Fair point. Just curious, I suppose. So back in Potidea, did you actually live on a farm?
GABRIELLE
Yes, but we mostly raised livestock. Though it wasn't many due to our farm being fairly small. And my father's the one who typically tends to the animals and takes our extra produce to be sold at the market in a nearby town.
XENA
And did you do anything?
GABRIELLE
Well, my mother, sister, and myself did the things like cooking, cleaning, and all the other typical things women do in a household.
(Thinking to herself) Not exactly the life I dreamt of, but compared to being held captive by this woman or being brought into slavery, I'd take that boring small village life any day. Gods, I wish I were back home now and mother and Lila were both there, safe and sound.
Xena noticed the saddened look that fell over Gabrielle as she silently thought about the life and family that she didn't know if she'd ever see again. But not particularly caring about her backstory, the Conqueror continued on with figuring out what she should do with Gabrielle.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) I don't think any more cooks are needed. It couldn't hurt to have another seamstress, servant, or maid, I suppose. But I don't think I really need more of them either. It's a possibility that I'll leave open, though, in case I can't find anything else to do with her.
After the brief thought, Xena continued questioning Gabrielle, who kept her answers honest to avoid exciting the Conqueror's wrath if she were to find out that she'd been lied to.
XENA
What else did you do back in Potidea?
GABRIELLE
Um, not much actually. There wasn't really much to do. So I just spent a lot of time retelling the stories I heard from when I was little to the younger children. And writing down some of my favorites.
Gabrielle saw the Conqueror raise an eyebrow with intrigue.
XENA
A writer and storyteller, huh?
Again Xena went quiet as she briefly thought before beginning to form an idea that she thought might be a good fit for the new young woman who had unexpectedly ended up in her life, even if she wasn't sure just how long she'd actually be keeping Gabrielle around.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) I guess having a personal scribe might not be a bad idea. It would certainly beat doing most of the physical letter and decree writing myself. I honestly don't know why I haven't gotten myself a personal scribe by now anyway. And as a bonus, if those stories are at least half decent, it could be somewhat entertaining when I'm not doing anything. But obviously, I'm gonna have to actually see how well she does with being a scribe before I make my final decision.
While thinking, Xena yawned and looked out of the window that she could see on the far wall behind where Gabrielle sat. The sun was getting low as Xena hadn't realized how late it had gotten, as she began to feel the effects of a long day take hold and finished her drink before standing up.
XENA
Well, I'm convinced that you're not any kind of threat, so I can decide what I'm doing with you tomorrow.
Just then there was a knock on the door, and the Conqueror looked towards it as she spoke for whoever it was to come in. The door opened and a woman walked in, asking if there was anything that the Conqueror needed.
XENA
Ah, good timing. You can take this away now.
Xena motioned to the remaining food that was left sitting in front of her before looking back at Gabrielle for a moment.
XENA
Unless you want any.
GABRIELLE
No, I'm not really hungry.
Xena shrugged as she then gave the go-ahead for the servant to take the leftover food away. The woman did as instructed and began to carry the tray of plates, bowls, and cups away.
XENA
Oh, and take the girl with you. Her name's Gabrielle. Set her up in the servant's quarters for tonight and have her brought back to me in the morning.
The woman replied with a standard "Yes, my lord," and Xena motioned for Gabrielle to follow the other woman. Gabrielle happily did as she was glad to be done with such a long, tense, and genuinely horrid day around the Conqueror. Even though her worst initial fears of what was going to happen to her were put at least for the time being put at ease, she still felt very apprehensive and anxious about what her life would now be like, now that the Conqueror would apparently be keeping her around for the time being. Still, after the stress of the day, piled on to everything else that Gabrielle had endured in such a short period of time, she suddenly felt just too tired to think about it at the moment as she heard the Conqueror call after the servant to be sure to keep the rules for the new arrivals in mind. The other woman again replied affirmatively and led Gabrielle away. Gabrielle was brought down a flight of stairs from the Conqueror's quarters and to a long hallway with a series of doors on either side. The woman led Gabrielle to one of the rooms and opened the door. Gabrielle looked at the older woman who didn't say anything but simply nudged Gabrielle, causing Gabrielle to stumble a little forward into the room. The woman pointed out a small curtained area that had a chamber pot for if Gabrielle needed it in the middle of the night. She then told Gabrielle that someone would come get her in the morning as she left the small room and shut the door behind her, locking it from the outside as she walked away. Leaving a completely alone and scared Gabrielle who, after trying for some time to get the door open and with no windows in the room, sank to the floor and eventually cried herself to sleep by the door as her first full day of her new life with the Conqueror came to an end.
A knock on the door awoke Gabrielle from her slumber. She opened her eyes to the morning sunlight pouring through the window of the small room she'd been locked in all night, as the grim reminder of where she was returned to the forefront of her mind. She then heard a voice from the other side of the door.
ELLE
Gabrielle, it's Elle. Time to get up. The lord Conqueror is requesting your appearance shortly.
Gabrielle sat up with a grimace due to her side still bothering her as Elle unlocked and opened the door slightly.
ELLE
Can I come in?
GABRIELLE
Sure, I guess.
Gabrielle slid to the side as the woman opened the door more to see Gabrielle sitting on the floor by the doorway.
ELLE
What are you doing on the floor? Are you okay?
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Okay?! How can I be? Nothing about any of this is okay.
Gabrielle could see a look of concern on Elle's face as she crouched down beside her, and could help but believe it to be truly genuine. So she decided to ease the young woman's concern.
GABRIELLE
It's nothing. I guess I just fell asleep here last night.
ELLE
Oh.
Elle gave a relieved smile as she stood and offered Gabrielle her hand to help her up, who accepted and stood.
ELLE
(Joking) You do realize you could've slept in the bed, you know?
Seeing the unamused look on Gabrielle's face she received for the comment, Elle cleared her throat awkwardly.
ELLE
Sorry. I didn't mean to make light of things. I'm sure none of this is easy for you.
Gabrielle softened her expression as she thought that Elle had likely been with the Conqueror for a while and had probably forgotten about what it was like to just come into that world.
GABRIELLE
It's okay. I'm sure you didn't mean anything by it.
Elle gave a slight releaved smile as she then stepped back out into the hallway for a moment before returning holding some neatly folded up clothing in her arms.
ELLE
Here's some more clean clothes. I'll leave you for a bit to get dressed, and then I'm to take you to her lordship. Just come out when you're done.
Elle put the clothes on the bed and left the room, shutting the door behind her as Gabrielle looked at the clothes that were fairly similar to what she usually wore and sighed as she decided at that moment that if she wanted to survive this whole ordeal, find a way out and somehow locate, save and reunite with her family, then she would have to play along and be obedient to what the Conqueror wanted. She just hoped that they were okay and that she'd be strong enough to endure the days ahead and whatever they entailed.
XENA
Enter.
Xena stood looking out the window as the door opened after a knock and Elle lead Gabrielle into her private quarters.
ELLE
I've brought Gabrielle as you requested, my lord.
Xena looked over her shoulder at the two before returning her gaze out the window to the scenery of the green rolling hills that the room overlooked.
XENA
Good. That'll be all for now, Elle.
With a “Yes my lord”, Elle bowed her head as she then turned and left the room, shutting the door behind her. Gabrielle stood uncomfortably as she watched the Conqueror continuing her watch outside as the morning sunlight bathed her in a warm glow, not looking at Gabrielle as she spoke.
XENA
There's breakfast over on the table. Help yourself to whatever you like, then go sit at the desk.
Gabrielle complied and once done, Xena turned around and picked up a few scrolls, other blank pieces of paper along with an inkwell and quill from a stand near the window as she walked over to the table where Gabrielle sat.
XENA
Read these to me.
Gabrielle swallowed her bite of food as she picked a rolled up scroll from the items placed before her, opened and read aloud what was written on the parchment. Which seemed to be a checklist for amounts of various items in the keep such as Wheat, barley, grapes, and other agricultural products. The list also included products from animal's such as milk, cheeses, and meats. With no reply needed, Xena had Gabrielle move on to reading the next scroll. Doing as she was told, Gabrielle picked up another paper at random and proceeded to open and read it aloud, as she had for the first one. Again it was just a mundane message as Gabrielle then sat quietly and wrote down what the Conqueror dictated for the letter's reply. Once done speaking, Xena took the paper that Gabrielle had been writing on and read it over for herself. She noted the fine penmanship that the farm girl possessed, then satisfied with Gabrielle's work, Xena returned the parchment to the desk and told Gabrielle to roll it up and seal it. Gabrielle again did as instructed as she rolled the paper, poured a bit of hot wax from the burning candle that sat on the deck beside the writing supplies on it, and then pressed a stamp into the rapidly cooling wax to seal the letter shut. This pattern continued as Gabrielle read and replied to several more letters using the Conqueror's words. Once all the messages had been read and the ones that needed to be replied to had been, Xena was satisfied with the job Gabrielle had done and casually mentioned as such.
XENA
Good it seems that you've done a well enough job so far, the time being we'll continue this trial basis for you to be my personal scribe.
Xena looked at Gabrielle for a moment as she thought of what to do with her while she didn't have things that would require the writing skills of her new acquisition. After a few moments, an idea came to mind that seemed to be an obvious fit as she stepped out of her room and spotted Leonidas walking down the hall and called him over.
LEONIDAS
Good morning, my lord. What do you need?
Xena motioned back towards where Gabrielle still sat.
XENA
Bring her to the archives. I'm sure will Sara be happy to finally have some help over there.
LEONIDAS
Sure thing my lord.
Xena looked back at Gabrielle and gave a nod towards Leonidas.
XENA
Alright, follow him and make sure that you listen and do everything the librarian tells you understand.
GABRIELLE
Yes.
Gabrielle stood and walked over to Leonidas, who smiled and greeted her.
LEONIDAS
Good morning little one, come with me to the archives, and I'll introduce you to my lovely Sara. She oversees keeping the archives in order and everything else that goes with it. And she looks quite beautiful while doing it too if I might add.
Leonidas smiled and gave Gabrielle a quick wink.
LEONIDAS
Though if you were to ask most of the other guys here they'd probably just say that I'm being biased giving the fact that she just so happens to be my wife.
Xena rolled her eyes as Leonidas walked Gabrielle out of the room, as she scoffed at how ridiculous and pointless the notion of romantic relationships between people were. The thought was then quickly forgotten as she too left the room to carry on with the other various things she had to attend to.
--MEANWHILE ELSEWHERE--
?
(Angry tone) What do you mean Petrodes is dead?!
HECTOR
I'm sorry Draco, but it's true. Xena killed him. She was pissed when she realized that he had pledged his allegiance to you over her.
Draco calmed down as he learned back in his seat, allowing the outburst of anger to pass.
DRACO
Well I guess it doesn't matter too much anyway. I'm sure I can still seize control over Olympia and everything that's around it. And then the rest of Greece to follow.
He then flashed a grin as he idly fiddled with the dagger in his hand, that rested on the arm of his chair.
DRACO
After all, Xena has no idea just what she's up against.
Draco laughed as he then glanced over at a figure that faded away as an unknown alliance had just been made that would inevitability shake the whole world of the Conqueror to its core. And in a way that no one would have expected.
TO BE CONTINUED…
Pt.14
Remaining quiet, Gabrielle followed Leonidas through the keep. They moved past numerous people as they came and went doing various daily tasks. Gabrielle couldn't help but wonder just what so many people did within those walls. Surely, they couldn't all be captives or slaves. They outnumbered the Conqueror so many times that surely they could easily overthrow one woman, no matter how fearsome and ruthlessness she may be. So if these people weren't owned by the woman, that meant that they had chosen to be there. Chosen to follow and serve her willingly. But why? Were they being lied to by the Conqueror, or were they all cut from the same cloth and just as evil and heartless as she was? But if this were true, then why was this soldier or high-ranking member of her army, Leonidas, always so kind to Gabrielle? Was it all an act? No, something told Gabrielle that he genuinely seemed to be a kind man. Yet if that was true, then why was he a clearly willing member of the Conqueror's army? And Elle, she seemed so kind as well. Whereas Xena, the Conqueror herself, while she hadn't yet physically harmed her, with everything she had heard and after seeing first hand what Xena was capable of, Gabrielle was completely terrified of the woman. Was that what made these people serve the Conqueror, fear? Honestly, the more Gabrielle thought about everything, the less it made sense. It all just felt like one long bizarre nightmare, one that Gabrielle wished more than anything that she would just wake from already. But sadly, as much as she wished it not to be, Gabrielle knew that it was all real. This was her life now, and it seemed as though there was nothing she could do to change it. After walking through several hallways and descending a long flight of stairs, Gabrielle was finally brought to a pair of large doors as Leonidas stopped in front of them and smiled at her as he pushed them open.
LEONIDAS
Here we are, the archives. Now come on, let's see where my lovely wife is.
Leonidas walked into the enormous room ahead of Gabrielle, who looked around in sheer awe of just how much literature and writing appeared to be stored in the room. Coming from such a small village, she had never could've imagined so many scrolls and writings being held in one place.
LEONIDAS
Sara, where are you, my dear? I've brought you a surprise that I think you'll like.
?
Look out below!
Hearing the sudden shout from above, Gabrielle was pulled from her admiration of the archives as she hastily stepped back and barely avoided being hit by a large satchel of scrolls and books as they dropped to the floor at her feet.
?
Oh! I'm so sorry. Are you okay?
Gabrielle looked up from the bag as a woman slid down the ladder that Gabrielle had been walking by and landed in front of her.
?
Those didn't hit you, did they?
GABRIELLE
Um no, I'm okay.
The woman smiled.
?
Oh, good. The last thing I need is to knock someone out with my clumsiness again.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Again?!
Gabrielle heard Leonidas chuckle a bit as he stepped forward and picked up the satchel.
LEONIDAS
Well I suppose that'll teach me to scare someone holding on mountains worth of writings on a ladder.
?
(Joking) At least you learned your lesson without getting too much brain damage.
Leonidas laughed.
LEONIDAS
Well I can't be so certain about that, but I'd say it was well worth it in the end given that's how we met my dear.
Leonidas smiled as he gestured to Gabrielle and introduced her and the other woman.
LEONIDAS
Well, anyway, I'm here to bring you a little gift courtesy of the lord Conqueror herself. This is Gabrielle, our newest arrival in the keep. The lord Conqueror thought she would be of some use to help you keep this place in working order.
He then glanced at Gabrielle with a smile on his face as he continued.
LEONIDAS
And this lovely woman right here little one, is the most wonderful, beautiful and amazing woman in all of Greece, my lovely wife Sara.
The woman smiled as she shook her head in mock disapproval as she was pulled in close by Leonidas and given a kiss on the cheek, and she laughed as she patted his armored chest.
SARA
Don't mind him, he's ridiculous. But anyway, it's a pleasure to meet you, Gabrielle. It'll be nice to hopefully finally have some competent help around here.
The woman pulled out of her husband's arms and offered her hand to Gabrielle, who took it and greeted her in return.
GABRIELLE
Nice to meet you too.
Sara had medium length, wavy, dark brown hair. With dark brown eyes to match. As with most of the other women around, she was taller than Gabrielle, but still didn't compete with the stature of the Conqueror. She wore a long sleeved pink blouse with a dark blue overcoat with brown trim which had shorter sleeves and came down to her elbows as the blouse continued all the way down her arms and tucked under a pair of dark brown leather bracers that started at her wrists and ended midway up her forearms. Around her midsection, Sara had what looked to be a brown leather corset that was tied in a crisscross pattern in the front. She also wore a pair of well-fitted pants that were the same color as her overcoat and tucked into a pair of nearly knee-high boots that matched the color of her bracers. Honestly, she wasn't exactly what Gabrielle had pictured someone who works in an archive would looklike. And apparently her face said as much, as Sara laughed.
SARA
(Joking tone) What, did you think you'd see some shriveled up old woman wandering around in here?
GABRIELLE
Oh, sorry, I didn't mean… I didn't really know what to expect. The past several days have just been a lot and I don't really know what to make of all of it.
Sara smiled.
SARA
No need to apologize. The lord Conqueror can be a pretty intense woman, so it's easy to assume that she surrounds herself with similar personalities.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Intense? Now there's a giant understatement if I ever heard one.
LEONIDAS
Well if you don't have any use for me here, I think I'll just leave you ladies to it.
He looked at Gabrielle as he turned to leave.
LEONIDAS
The keep is a big place, so either myself or someone else will escort you back to your room later. Don't need you getting lost, now do we?
Gabrielle didn't respond as Leonidas walked out, and it was just her and Sara left in the archives.
SARA
I can't tell you how good it is to finally have some help in here. Hopefully, you'll do better than that last bit of “help” I got.
Gabrielle could tell from the woman's tone that whoever was in there with her last, she obviously didn't view as being helpful at all as Sara began walking towards a shelf that sat opposite to the one she had just been looking at.
SARA
Come on Gabrielle, we'll start off easy over here.
It was nearing sunset several days later as Xena sat in a large chair looking out the window at the view as she sipped her wine and tried to relax from the day's work she had recently finished. There was a knock on the door and she called for the visitor to enter.
LEONIDAS
Evening my lord.
Xena responded with just a grunt as she kept her watch out the window.
LEONIDAS
I have the report for the girl's performance as you requested.
XENA
And?
LEONIDAS
Well, it seems that Sara couldn't be happier with the help. And she says the little one is doing quite well. She seems to be a very fast learner and a hard worker.
Xena raised her eyebrow as a thought crossed her mind.
XENA
The little one? Leonidas why is it that you call her that?
The man shrugged.
LEONIDAS
Well, she seems to be a fairly sweet girl who happens to be a bit small in stature. So it seems fitting, my lord. Why do you ask?
The Conqueror took a sip from her cup and placed it on the table beside her as she reclined further into the chair.
XENA
No reason. Just curious, is all. If that's it, you may take your leave now.
LEONIDAS
Of course my lord. Have a good rest of the night.
Leonidas left the room and shut the doors behind him, as the Conqueror spent the rest of the night alone.
XENA
So in conclusion, I've heard your request for assistance in warding of the giant and as I'm sending this letter I'll have already sent out a battalion of my men to despatch of the problem.
Xena continued wrapping up the final lines of the letter as Gabrielle wrote them down and after a quick review from Xena, Gabrielle rolled up and sealed the letter as she had for many others. Several weeks had gone by since Gabrielle had first been brought to the Conqueror's keep. Her time had been split between working with Sara in the archives and being the personal scribe for the Conqueror. Why the woman had picked her out of all the other people there, Gabrielle had no idea. But she figured that if she did as she was told, then hopefully she wouldn't be on the receiving end of the Conqueror's wrath. She was beginning to get the layout of the keep and, for the most part, didn't need an escort to find the few places that she would go on her daily business. Despite the fact that back home, Gabrielle was always a highly talkative person, since coming in contact with the Conqueror, she found herself not speaking as much. Mostly due to the fact that she was worried that she might say something wrong and, in all honesty, Gabrielle really did not want to see the kind of brutality and violence that she had witnessed from the Conqueror be directed at her. Because even after what she had seen happen to the leader of Olympia, since being brought to the keep, Gabrielle had heard the Conqueror lose her temper multiple times. She would be on the other side of a hallway and would hear the Conqueror's yelling out various obscenities along with loud thuds and crashes as she would notice most of the others avoid going anywhere near the Conqueror's direction. Gabrielle thought herself fortunate that she hadn't yet gotten caught up in the woman's path while she was in a rage. But what bothered her almost as much as how frightful the Conqueror could be was the fact that nearly everyone else around her seemed to be used to it and, when she would be flying off in a rage, would just go about their duties as usual. Almost as if it didn't really phase them. And because of that, Gabrielle wasn't sure whether it was them or the Conqueror who was madder in the end. As she questioned if she was in fact the only sane person in the whole place. But as Gabrielle started yet another day in the keep, she had no way of knowing what the day would have in store as she would bear witness to the unexpected depths that dwelled deep within the Conqueror's soul.
TO BE CONTINUED…
Pt.15
The day had started off as the others had before for Gabrielle as she began begrudgingly settling into her new life in service to the Conqueror. She sat at the desk in the Conqueror's quarters as she wrote down what was said. It wasn't anything of much importance to Gabrielle, so she just mindlessly wrote what the Conqueror said and didn't give the words she was putting on the parchment a second thought. After a while Xena decided to take a break for lunch and as she sat lounging in her seat idly eating a chunk of cheese that she held as cut pieces from before popping the smaller pieces into her mouth, she watched Gabrielle still seated at the desk gazing out the window not knowing what was going through the young woman's mind. Gabrielle's thoughts once again had wandered off, thinking about her family and home village that she wished more than anything that she could see again.
XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) Hey, you know I don't like repeating myself.
GABRIELLE
Huh?
Gabrielle was brought back to the present as she heard the Conqueror's voice break into her deep thoughts, and turned in her seat to look at the woman.
GABRIELLE
Sorry my lord. I guess I just got lost in my thoughts for a moment.
Gabrielle looked away for a moment to try to hide the sadness that she was certain could be seen in her eyes.
GABRIELLE
Um, what did you need?
Xena shrugged as she took another bit of cheese and ate it as she tossed a piece of fruit at Gabrielle, who fumbled with the unexpected toss for a moment before securing it.
XENA
You've been working hard today, you should take a break and eat something before you head back to the archives.
GABRIELLE
Oh, uh, thank you, my lord.
Gabrielle sat there quietly and ate as she could feel the other woman watching her. But before she could really think about it, Xena's gaze moved elsewhere, and Gabrielle felt a bit of relief to not have those eyes that always showed so much intensity off her for the moment. After a few moments, the Conqueror stood and moved over to her desk and began looking over some papers.
XENA
Once you've finished, you can go back to the archives.
The Conqueror didn't look at Gabrielle as she spoke and after finishing what she had in her hand, Gabrielle left and headed to the archives as she saw the Conqueror watch her leave before returning to her work.
ELLE
Oh hey Gabrielle. Where are you off to?
Gabrielle paused as she looked over her shoulder to see Elle walking over to her.
GABRIELLE
I was just with the Conqueror, and now I'm heading to the archives.
ELLE
Oh good, I was on my way there myself. Mind if I walk with you?
Gabrielle shrugged.
GABRIELLE
Sure, I guess.
The two walked together as Elle talked.
ELLE
Boy, you're really not much of a talker, are you?
Gabrielle looked at Elle as she thought of how ironic it was that someone actually thought of her as being quiet. Something that she definitely had never been.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Trust me, I can be. But being held captive by someone who utterly terrifies you to think that you'll say one wrong thing you'll end up another one of her victims, tends to make a person a little less talkative.
(Out loud) I guess not.
ELLE
Well that's okay, I still like you anyway.
Gabrielle smiled at the young woman who, since her arrival at the keep, had come to be somewhat of a friend. Something that while Gabrielle never thought she would have found during her servitude in the large keep, but was something that she was thankful for nonetheless.
GABRIELLE
Thanks Elle. I like you too.
The two walked on and reached the archives.
SARA
Ah good afternoon Gabrielle. Elle. What brings you here today?
Sara placed a stack of books on a table as she looked at the two young women entering the room.
ELLE
Just looking for a recipe for one of the cooks. Though, I think she just wanted me out of the kitchen.
Sara chuckled.
SARA
Still not getting along with her, huh?
ELLE
She says that I just get in the way and don't know what I'm doing. Though if you ask me, the woman is just a grouchy, old, hag who wouldn't know flavor if she got slapped across the face with it.
SARA
Hey now, Isidora has been here longer than most of us, and there's obviously a reason that her lord Conqueror has kept her around.
Elle scoffed.
ELLE
Because she hardly has to deal with the old hag. Everyone who has to see that woman on a daily basis knows that she's the most miserable crone to have ever walked the face of this world.
SARA
Oh come now Elle, she isn't that bad.
ELLE
Fine, you go work with her, and I'll stay with my friend Gabrielle here.
Elle put her arm over Gabrielle's shoulder, who as a result was dragged into the conversation.
SARA
Oh no, that's a bad idea. I don't cook. Just ask my husband. The last time he ate something I made, he spent the next few days on the chamber pot crying like a baby.
Gabrielle couldn't help but feel bad for Leonidas as she thought of the man in such a miserable state, as he had been nothing but kind to her since their meeting. Elle giggled at the thought, as Sara shook her head with a smirk.
SARA
(Joking) I'm sure he'll be thrilled to see that you're so amused by his suffering.
Sara turned around and began walking over to one of the shelves.
SARA
Well let me get that book for you. Which one did Isidora want?
Elle told Sara which book she needed, and Sara easily found it and brought it over to her.
SARA
Here you go.
Elle took the book with a sigh and slowly turned to leave.
ELLE
Thanks Sara. Guess I have to go back now.
As Elle dragged her feet towards the door, Sara sighed to herself as she looked at Gabrielle.
SARA
You know what Gabrielle, I think I have everything covered here today, so why don't you go with Elle and see about giving Isidora an extra hand in the kitchen.
Gabrielle looked at the woman with a questioning expression.
GABRIELLE
Are you sure it's okay. I mean the lord Conqueror sent me here and…
Sara patted Gabrielle on the shoulder as she smiled.
SARA
Don't worry about getting in trouble, Gabrielle. That's how this place continues to run as efficiently as it does. We all pitch in where we can. And as long as everything runs smoothly, her lord Conqueror is just fine with people moving around and doing things on their own.
GABRIELLE
Oh… well, if you're sure no one will get in trouble.
ELLE
It's fine, really. Come on, Gabrielle, there's no way that old hag can be mean to you.
Before Gabrielle could protest, Elle grabbed her wrist and pulled her along behind her as she left the archives with Gabrielle in toe.
?
It's about time you got back here, Elle.
Gabrielle heard a woman's voice as she and Elle entered the kitchen. She looked over to the side to see an elderly woman standing over a large pot that she stirred as its contents simmered over the brick fire stove.
ELLE
It took a bit to find the book you wanted.
The old woman glanced over to see Elle plop the book on a table. She raised a curious eyebrow as she noticed Gabrielle standing beside her.
?
(Sarcastically) I didn't know that the book was so heavy that you needed help bringing it here.
Elle turned to face Gabrielle and the old woman as she leaned back against the table.
ELLE
Oh this is Gabrielle. She works in the archives and is the lord Conqueror's personal scribe. Sara thought she'd be of more use here for today.
Elle looked at Gabrielle as she gestured toward the old woman.
ELLE
Gabrielle, this is the head cook here at the keep, Isidora.
Gabrielle greeted the woman who was obviously fairly advanced in age which was evident by the very prominent wrinkles on her face, neck and hands. Isidora wore a simple, long, dark blue dress with some brown trim around the neck along with the beginning and end of the long sleeves. She had long gray, hair that she wore completely down. All in all she didn't really stand out from any other older woman that Gabrielle had seen. But she figured that if she was in charge of cooking for the Conqueror, then she must be very good at what she did.
GABRIELLE
Nice to meet you.
Isidora looked Gabrielle over for a moment before she turned back to tending to what was cooking on the stove.
ISIDORA
Fine, maybe she'll actually be competent help.
Elle scowled at the woman's coment that was obviously a jab at her as Isidora gestured with her free hand towards the long counter beside her
ISIDORA
You can get to work chopping those vegetables into small chunks for this stew.
Without saying anything Gabrielle moved to the counter, grabbed a knife and began cutting up the various vegetables that sat in a basket in front of her. After finishing the meal prep and clean up Gabrielle sat on a stool beside Elle as they both sipped on some cider.
ELLE
Thanks for the help Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
It wasn't a big deal.
ELLE
So are you getting used to life here at the keep?
Gabrielle shrugged as she looked into the cup that she held as her hands rested on her lap.
GABRIELLE
I guess. But...
Gabrielle paused as thought that Elle probably didn't want to hear about her missing her family and just how scared of the Conqueror she really was.
ELLE
I get it. It's hard to be thrown into something completely different from everything that you've ever known.
Gabrielle raised her eyes from her drink as she looked at Elle once again.
ELLE
I was just a little girl when my family were all killed by raiders.
Elle looked off as she continued.
ELLE
My mother, father, brother, two sisters and myself were all traveling from our village to attend my aunts wedding. It was about a weeks trip and on our third day of traveling we crossed paths with a group of raiders. My father tried to appease them and gave them all our money, which honestly wasn't much. But he figured that if he just gave them what we had they would leave us alone. But for everything that they were given, those monsters wanted more
Elle shook her head at the memory that ran through her head as Gabrielle saw a deep sadness that lingered behind the typical cheerful young woman's eyes.
ELLE
It's been years and I can still hear my mothers screams as they took turns and held my father captive, forcing him to watch what they did to her.
Gabrielle didn't know what to say as Elle paused in telling her tale. Then after a moment she continued.
ELLE
After they were done taking what they wanted from my mother, they just killed her right there. That was when my father finally lost it and broke free. Though he was unarmed, he charged at the raiders and as you can imagine it didn't end well for him. He was cut down in one strike and as he layed there dying, with his dying breath he told us kids to run. So we did. We didn't get far before we heard my older sister yelling. I looked back to see her being picked up by one of the raiders but my younger sister just grabbed my hand and forced me to keep running along with him and my older sister as we could hear her screaming behind us. Then he dropped to the ground after he was hit in the leg with an arrow. As myself and my older sister ran I tripped and twisted my ankle. I begged her to keep going without me, but she just said that she couldn't let those monsters take her whole family from her. So she quickly dragged me into some bushes and ran off as a distraction.
Elle shook her head as she took a drink from her cup before finishing her tale.
ELLE
I don't know how long I stayed in those bushes, but those raiders never did find me. So after waiting until it felt safe, I crawled out and headed in the direction my sister had ran, just hoping that I would find her. And eventually I did. But the state she was in. I could only imagine what they did to her. I held her in my arms as she took her final breaths and then I was left completely alone.
GABRIELLE
What about the raiders? How did you escape?
ELLE
Actually after finding my sister, I never saw them again. So I just spent the next few days wandering around until I found my way here. The guards found me and brought me to the lord Conqueror. I must've looked like a mees because she took one look at me and sent me to the healers then gave me a room and I've been in service of her lordship ever since.
Gabrielle felt for Elle as they had similar stories for how they had found their way to the Conqueror. But why? What did she get out of it? Free labor?
GABRIELLE
So you're her slave?
Elle giggled.
ELLE
No. The lord Conqueror dosen't own slaves. Everyone here is fully compensated for what they do in one way or another.
GABRIELLE
Everyone except me apparently.
Elle didn't know how to respond as she finished her drink.
ELLE
Well, I'm sure the lord Conqueror has good reason for keeping you here.
GABRIELLE
(Talking quietly) Yeah, sure.
After talking a bit longer, Gabrielle and Elle left the kitchen and Elle walked Gabrielle back to the dinning hall. As they walked in, Gabrielle spotted Xena seated at the head of the very long table. She watched as the woman's eyes seemed to instantly find her. As she had earlier they watched Gabrielle for a moment then Xena looked away and carried on with her previous activities.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) What was that look about? No she must be mad that I went to the kitchen with Elle. This isn't good. What's she gonna do to me?
Gabrielle felt a nudge as Elle walked by her.
ELLE
Come on let's go sit down.
Gabrielle followed Elle and sat down. As she ate Gabrielle could again feel the Conqueror's eyes on her and crouched down in her seat to try and escape her gaze. Xena took a bite of her meal as she watched Gabrielle hunch down and shook her head at the young woman's behavior. Everyone in the large room, ate and talked amongst themselves as Xena lounged back in her seat as she took a drink of her wine and watched the room. Her attention was then drawn to the doors to her side as her senses picked up fast footsteps coming their way. Then a moment later Leonidas walked into the room and moved with purpose to where Xena sat.
LEONIDAS
(Talking quietly) My lord we have a very serious issue that's in need of your immediate attention.
Gabrielle saw Leonidas talking to the Conqueror but couldn't hear what was being said. That was until Xena stood as she shouted so loud that everyone in the room stopped speaking as many including Gabrielle jumped slightly after hearing the Conqueror's sudden angery outburst.
XENA
(Angry tone) What?! This had better not be someone's idea of a joke Leonidas.
LEONIDAS
It's true my lord. We just received word. Draco's army isn't to far out from Amphipolis and from the intell we have, they definitely appear to be targeting the village specifically.
Xena scowled as she felt her blood begin to boil. In a huff she turned towards Leonidas.
XENA
Have the bulk of the army here ready immediately. We ride for Amphipolis in the hour.
With that Xena stormed off to get her armor and weapons.
ELLE
Why would anyone be foolish enough to go after Amphipolis of all places? This isn't gonna be good.
GABRIELLE
Why, what's so special about that village?
ELLE
Because before she was the woman she is today, that was the village that she once called home.
XENA
What exactly are we looking at?
LEONIDAS
Unfortunately we don't really have many details at this moment. At least not until we get word back from the runners we sent ahead.
There was a loud thud as Xena slammed her fist onto the desk beside her as she and Leonidas stood in her private study. After Xena was initially given news of the incoming attack during dinner, she had quickly stormed out of the dinning hall to attend to the developing situation with Leonidas following.
XENA
(Angry tone) Well why haven't we heard anything yet?
LEONIDAS
I understand that the situation is fairly personal to you my lord, but you know that these things take time. You must be careful not to let your emotions cloud your better judgment and rush into this before we have enough information.
Xena scowled at her second in command.
XENA
(Angry tone) I'm not stupid Leonidas. You do remember just who it is that you're talking to don't you?
LEONIDAS
Of course my lord. I was simply reminding you that in these sorts of scenarios cooler heads tend to prevail that's all.
Xena grumbled to herself as she finished making sure her armor was securely in place on her body. She looked in the mirror for a moment as she reflected on the fact that it had been quite some time since she had donned this attire specificly for battle. In the most recent times she had put it on, it had mostly been for show. A bit of an intimidation tactic as it were. After all when most people pictured the Conqueror, the image of a deadly, statuesque, armored up woman was topically the image that came to most people's mind. And that was exactly what Xena wanted. As a lot of the time just her reputation alone, true or not, was enough to keep many of those who might not be happy with her for whatever reason in line. As well as prevent any kind of threat against her from both outside and within herhoarders. But now it seemed that reputation alone wasn't enough to ward off this threat. And if the fact that anyone would have the audacity to try and raise up against her weren't enough to anger Xena. The exact details of what they were doing was the perfect catalyst to work the Conqueror's blood up to a boil. A knock on the door caused Xena to turn away from the standing mirror and called for the person to enter. A man opened the door and walked in before stopping a few feet from Xena and bringing his closed fist to his chest in the customary salute as he addressed Xena.
MESSAGER
My lord, details on the enemy's numbers and movements have just arrived.
Xena took a rolled-up scroll from the man before opening and reading the message.
XENA
This can't be right.
Xena reread what was written before her and then with a scowl on her face she angerly crumpled the paper in her hands before throwing it to the side as she walked over to where her sword sat in its sheathe and picked it up.
LEONIDAS
What is it?
XENA
(Angry tone) Not good that's what.
Xena finished hooking her weapon on her hip as Leonidas picked up and unruffled the paper to read the message.
LEONIDAS
How is this possible? How could Draco amassed such an army without us catching word of this before now?
XENA
Don't know, but something about this just doesn't sit right with me. Draco's never had this kind of manpower before. So however he got this many men this quickly means that he's likely not the only enemy that were dealing with here.
LEONIDAS
Who would form an alliance with him? He's just a small time warlord and slaver.
XENA
That might be true but don't forget I don't exactly have any shortage of enemies who would love nothing more than to see me dead and my kingdom fall.
LEONIDAS
Fair point my lord. But what do we do with this new information?
XENA
The same thing we were already going to do.
Xena gave her armor one final adjustment after which she turn and began walking towards the door before pausing momentarily to glance over her shoulder at Leonidas with a cold and deadly look in her eyes.
XENA
Make sure that the ground is painted with Draco's men and his allies blood.
A sickening, evil smile then crossed Xena's face as she continued.
XENA
(Sinister tone) This will be the last time that Draco ever crosses me. Because by the time I'm done with hin, my wall is gonna have a new trophy hung on it in the form of his head.
The keep was in a bustle as Gabrielle stood amongst the people coming and going wondering what was going on. She looked over at Elle as they walked through the busy halls.
GABRIELLE
Elle do you know what's happening?
ELLE
I'm not exactly sure but I did hear a few people saying something about there being some kind of attack or threat to her lordship home village of Amphipolis.
Elle sighed to herself as she shook her head.
ELLE
Why anyone would want to evoke the lord Conqueror's wrath that they must know would come from going after that village I'll never know.
GABRIELLE
So I'm guessing her family still lives there?
ELLE
Technically yes. But that really only depends on what exactly you're definition of family is.
GABRIELLE
What do you mean? Are they not actually related or something?
ELLE
Oh no they are. But as far as I know when it comes to the lord Conqueror and her family, the only thing that binds them together is their blood and nothing more.
Gabrielle didn't say anything as she figured that made sense. She couldn't imagine that any decent person would want to admit to actually being related to the Conqueror. What sane person would?
ELLE
But even though they aren't on speaking terms, her lordship has always kept a specifically close watch over the village.
GABRIELLE
So you think she still cares about the people there?
Elle gave Gabrielle a surprised look.
ELLE
Gabrielle, I know that her lordship might not be the nicest or easiest person to be around. And she's done things that many would see her killed for. But the woman is only human. Dispite what some of the rumors about her might say. So yes there are people who the lord Conqueror does care about. And the lord Conqueror is a woman whose heart is a very difficult place to truly gain entry into. So those that are allowed in, I believe she would go to the ends of this world to protect.
Gabrielle rolled her eyes at the thought of the Conqueror truly caring about anyone other than herself. And even then Gabrielle wasn't sure if that were true. But what Gabrielle didn't know was just how both right and wrong she actually was.
LEONIDAS
We're ready and awaiting your command my lord.
He rode up beside Xena who sat impatiently waiting on her horse just inside of the keeps outer gates. She glanced over at him for a moment before looking forward and motioning for the gates to be open. And as they opened Xena turned her horse to face her army.
XENA
Alright were gonna ride and cut off Draco's army before they can even reach Amphipolis. Show no mercy and take no prisoners.
The large group of soldiers let out a roaring response. Then with a yell of her own, Xena steered her horse to turn and gallop out of the gate with Leonidas and the others in her army right behind. And as she disappeared from view of the keep Xena vowed that the next time she layed eyes on Draco, her blade would be buried up to its hilt in the warlords flesh.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Ugh come on.
Gabrielle huffed as she looked up at the window with a determined expression on her face. it was several hours after Xena had left with her army and the moon hung in the darkened sky. Gabrielle had decided that with the Conqueror gone, this was finally the change to escape that she'd been looking for. If she left now she'd be long gone before the woman got back.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Mother, Lila, don't worry I'm gonna get out of here and wherever you are, I'll find you and get you out of there. Then we can finally all go back home and hopefully put all of this behind us.
She looked around the room from the chair she stood on that she had moved under the high window. There was a table but it was to heavy for Gabrielle to move and nothing else in the small storage room that Gabrielle had come across in her work would help. So undeterred in her mission to escape, Gabrielle climbed down from the chair and went over to the door that she had barricaded shut with a fire poker that happened to be in a bucket in the room. After pulling the metal rod from the pair of door handles, Gabrielle opened one door slightly as she peeked out to make sure no one was around. After seeing that the coast was clear, she stepped into the hall and looked around for a moment before spotting a small table sitting nearby with a couple decorative items on it. Then quickly and quietly, Gabrielle moved to the table. She placed the items on the floor before picking up the light table and carrying it back to the room. Once in the room she placed the table beneath the window and then stacked the chair on top of it. After briefly checking the makeshift structures stability, Gabrielle used a small wooden box to climb up onto the table. Then holding the chair as still as possible, she stepped up onto the chair. Doing he best to maintain balance she stood up and reached for the windowsill. After struggling for a moment she finally got the stuck window to open and then began to try pulling herself up and out of the window. Gabrielle was attempting her escape for a couple moments and had finally managed to get herself up onto the windowsill when she suddenly heard a voice behind her.
ELLE
Gabrielle?! What are you doing?!
Gabrielle looked back and saw Elle standing in the doorway as she realized that she'd forgotten to shut and lock the door again after getting the table. Realizing she had been caught trying to escape and knowing that once the Conqueror found out when she returned she'd certainly be in trouble, Gabrielle tried to come up with something that could possibly explain what she'd just be caught doing other than trying to escape.
GABRIELLE
(Lying) Oh Elle, thank the gods you showed up, I uh came in here to get something and got locked in by mistake. So to get out I was trying to climb out the window.
ELLE
But I didn't have any trouble opening the door just now.
Gabrielle shrugged.
GABRIELLE
(Lying) Oh. Well I guess it must only get stuck from the inside.
ELLE
Oh. I'll have to tell someone to have a look at the door then so no one else gets stuck in here. Now why don't you get down from there before you fall out the window and hurt yourself.
Gabrielle sighed in defeat as she saw her opportunity to escape seemingly vanish right before her. With a heavy heart she began to move to climb back down as Elle watched.
ELLE
Careful Gabrielle, that stack of furniture doesn't look too stable. You want some help getting back down?
GABRIELLE
No I got it.
Gabrielle placed her hand on the side of the open window as she shifted so she could look back and see where to place her foot on the chair beneath her. She leaned against the window as she turned and without warning, Gabrielle felt her hand slip as she unexpectedly found herself falling backwards out of the window.
ELLE
Gabrielle!
Elle rushed over and climbed up the stack of furniture to look outside and see Gabrielle sprawled out in the grass. Fortunately dispite the high windows they were on the first floor so Gabrielle's fall wasn't actually serious but from that hight she still could've easily sprained an ankle or something.
ELLE
Are you okay?
Gabrielle shook off the momentary daze from her abrupt tumble as she sat up and looked up at Elle in the window.
GABRIELLE
Yeah I'm okay.
ELLE
Good. Stay there and I'll come out and get you, alright?
Gabrielle stood up and brushed herself off as she looked around to find that there wasn't anyone around at the moment.
GABRIELLE
(Distracted tone) Yeah, sure.
ELLE
Okay. I'll be right out.
Elle disappeared from the window and that was when Gabrielle knew that this was her chance as it would take Elle at least a few minutes to get outside. So without giving it another thought Gabrielle turned and began running toward the keeps gates that while closed, from the time she spent there she knew that the guards would be on patrol. Elle had turned around to go get Gabrielle but had caught a sudden movement out of her peripheral vision and quickly returned her attention outside where she saw Gabrielle running away.
ELLE
Gabrielle wait! What are you doing?!
Hearing Elle yell only made Gabrielle run harder as she was certain that the guards would soon be alerted to her attempted escape. So she hurried to get out of sight as she moved into a series of trees and bushes that sat within the outer walls of the keep. Loosing sight of Gabrielle, Elle looked around for a moment as she tried to decide what to do. She didn't want to call the guards and risk Gabrielle getting thrown into the dungeon or getting hurt. But if she just let Gabrielle escape and Xena found out, Elle knew that she'd end up in very serious trouble. So with her options at the time seemingly limited, Elle decided that the only thing she could do to ensure that both she and Gabrielle would be kept from getting in trouble was to go after and bring Gabrielle back herself. So after climbing onto the windowsill, Elle scooted out of the window and dropped down outside. She then moved in the direction that she saw Gabrielle run.
ELLE
(Whisper) Gabrielle. Gabrielle, where are you? This is a really bad idea. Just come back inside and I swear I'll never say anything about this to anyone. Gabrielle?!
Hearing Elle from below as she hid among the leaves of the tree she had climbed, Gabrielle carefully stepped onto a thick branch that stretched out to the outer walls of the keep. She moved as quietly as she could but when the branch creaked and made Elle look up in response to the sound and spot her in the tree above, Gabrielle had no choice but to move faster as Elle hurried after her.
ELLE
(Whisper) No, Gabrielle, wait.
Gabrielle Climbed higher in the tree as until she found herself just above the keep's outer walls.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Damn, I didn't think of how I would get down the other side from up here.
Gabrielle quickly looked around in the darkness for a way down the other side of the wall. Luckily her eyes had adjusted to so her vision wasn't too hindered by the lack of light. Hearing Elle not fat behind and closing in by the second, Gabrielle's search for a way down became more frantic as she finally spotted a large bush a few feet outside the wall. Unsure if she could make the jump but knowing that Elle was only seconds away from grabbing her, Gabrielle knew she was left with no choice. And after closing her eyes and making a desperate leap, Gabrielle plummeted down from the tall wall and landed in the patch of plant life. Seeing Gabrielle jump again, Elle thought to herself that the young woman must've been crazy as she continued to climb until she could see over the wall and saw Gabrielle standing up after crawling out of the bushes and looking back to see Elle still in pursuit before taking of running again. Gabrielle ran as fast as she could as Elle copied her action of jumping into the bushes before continuing to chase Gabrielle into the night. Neither woman knowing the unexpected events and encounters that would soon take place. As Xena too would soon find herself facing things that she never would have predicted taking place.
It was late morning as a series of horses were brought to a stop along a small ridge that overlooked a vast scenery before them.
LEONIDAS
I'm not seeing anything around here my lord. Are you certain that Draco's army gonna come this way?
The Conqueror gazed over the expanse of area as she used her incredibly well honed and battle tested instincts to read into the situation at hand before speaking.
XENA
I'm sure of it.
LEONIDAS
Not to question your instincts my lord, but with so many ways to come in toward the village what makes you so sure that they'll attack from this side?
XENA
Because it's exactly what I would do.
Without saying another word Xena gave her horse a nudge with her feet to begin moving again as Leonidas and the rest of Xena's men followed her toward the village. The Conqueror led the portion of the army she had brought with her a little closer to their destination before spotting a large group of soldiers in the distance which appeared to be heading in the village's direction as well. And judging from the size of the group of riders and noting the specific way they were dressed, Xena didn't have any doubt about just who the group of people were. So with a scowl on her face and a swift draw of her blade, Xena let out a commanding yell as she got her horse into a fast gallop straight for the opposing group of soldiers.
XENA
Kill 'em all!
Leonidas and the rest of Xena's men followed the Conqueror as they all stampeded directly toward the other army.
SOLDIER
What was that?
A yell could be heard ringing through the air as a number of soldiers amung the large group stopped their March and looked in the direction of which the sound had originated from. The sound echoed through the area as it reached the front of the army and their leader smirked to himself at the sound.
DRACO
(Thinking to himself) I was wondering when she would show up.
Draco turned the horse he was riding around to see Xena and her men rapidly closing in.
HECTOR
(Angry tone) Xena.
Hector drew his blade as he scowled at the incoming Conqueror. He was just about to begin charging for her when Draco put his arm out in front of him in a clear order for him not to attack.
DRACO
No, let her come. I've been waiting for this.
Hector gave Draco a questioning expression that was met with a confident chuckle.
DRACO
Oh we don't have anything to fear from Xena any more. Not with the powerful alliance I've made.
HECTOR
You've mentioned this alliance before but never said anything about who it was.
Draco smirked.
DRACO
Oh don't worry I'm sure you'll see who it is soon enough. Now what do you say we go meet up with the soon to be ex-conqueror of Greece and let her know that her reign has come to an end.
With a vocal command to his horse, Draco began casually riding toward Xena with Hector following close behind.
LEONIDAS
It seems as though they've spotted us and are coming our way my lord.
Seeing Draco's relaxed approach toward an enemy made Xena's instincts go on high alert but still she slowed her advance to a slow trot with the rest of her men following suite.
LEONIDAS
Are they not attacking? Strange.
XENA
My thoughts exactly.
LEONIDAS
Do we go in full force anyway?
XENA
No, not yet.
Xena quickly scanned the area for anything suspicious but couldn't immediately see anything out of place but still something about the situation just didn't feel right to her.
XENA
Something about this isn't right. They've got something up their sleeve I can feel it. There's no way Draco didn't expect me to show up when set his sights on Amphipolis. He knows that's the one place that I'd never forfeit to anyone no matter the numbers. So it begs the question of what he's actually doing.
Xena sheathed her weapon.
XENA
Wait here. I'm gonna go in and see what's going on.
LEONIDAS
By yourself? My lord I know you're fighting abilities are second to none but even you can't take on a whole army out in the open like this on your own.
XENA
Don't be ridiculous Leonidas I'm not going in to fight. Draco likes to talk and there was a point when we weren't enemies. Actually I think he might've had a thing for me.
LEONIDAS
Well given the fact that he's going after Amphipolis of all places, I think it's probably safe to say at this point that ship has sailed.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Yeah it's a real tragedy.
Still it might give me something to work with so we can get the jump on him. Stay here and wait for my signal. Then we slaughter every last one of them.
The Conqueror's eye's turned to an ice cold stare as she focused on the enemy army's leader with fierce intensity.
XENA
(Cold tone) But just remember, that son of a bitch Draco is mine.
Then with the rest of her army staying behind, Xena rode in close to Draco's army. Seeing just Xena coming Draco got down from his mount and casually moved to stand a little in front of the rest of his forces as Xena reached him, stopping her horse just a few feet in front of him as he flashed a fake smile.
DRACO
Ah Xena. Long time no see. So tell me what brings you here of all places.
XENA
(Angry tone) Fuck off Draco. You know damn well why I'm here.
Xena's face was fixed with what seemed to be a permanent scowl as she pointed her sword at the opposing warlord.
XENA
(Threatening tone) This is your one and only warning, back off and stay away from Amphipolis and anywhere else that you know is under my control or else.
Draco chuckled as he sat unintimidated by the Conqueror.
DRACO
Or else what, Xena? Am I supposed to be afraid? What are you gonna do, capture me, torture, kill me? Ha! You might be able to intimate everyone else you come in contact with but not me.
XENA
Big talk for someone who took this long to make a move despite saying that you aren't scared.
DRACO
It called preparation and planning. I might not fear you but I know what you and your army are capable of. So if I wanted to rip everything you have right out from under you, I needed to be fully prepared and give myself every advantage possible.
XENA
Too bad that still won't be enough.
Xena gave her sword a twirl as Draco, his men and Xena's all readied their weapons.
DRACO
Oh Xena you still have no clue what you're really up against. But I guess it was just about time I showed you.
Draco lunged for Xena with a swing of his sword which Xena used her own blade to block. She attempted to shove Draco back but was overpowered as the warlord deflected her weapon and swung his blade at her neck. Xena quickly ducked out of the way and took another swing, aiming her sword at Draco's open side. Draco jumped up high and flipped over Xena, seemingly dodging her attack effortlessly. He then immediately went back on the offensive as he drove his blade toward Xena's back. Instinctively Xena brought her blade behind her and blocked Draco's strike. She yelled as she shoved the blade away and spun around with a swipe of her sword. The weapon on a trajectory right for Draco's neck, Xena knew she had him beat until she saw him smile as just before her blade made contact, it was stopped as Draco grabbed onto it with his bare hand. Xena then attempted to pull her weapon away but found that it wouldn't budge as she could see the tight grip Draco had on the blade but seemed to be uncut as she didn't see any blood coming from his tightly closed hand.
XENA
What?
Draco smirked.
DRACO
Like I said before Xena, you're day's of ruling Greece are over.
Then before Xena had the time to react, Draco let go of her sword and threw a hard punch into her stomach, the force causing her to double over before getting hit by another powerful fist to the side of her face that dropped her to the ground.
LEONIDAS
My lord!
Hearing Leonidas Xena got to a knee and motioned for everyone to remain where they were. Reluctantly they obeyed and Xena returned her attention to Draco who stood with a confident smile as he watched Xena stand back up.
XENA
What was that? You've never had that level of physical strength. Actually I can't think of anyone who dose. It's inhuman.
DRACO
Your absolutely right Xena. This power isn't human. In fact you could say that it's almost godly.
Draco then threw several shots to Xena's face and midsection before landing one final uppercut to her chin that sent her flying backwards. Xena hit the ground several feet away and groaned in pain as she lifted her head to see Draco just standing in the same spot he had been. Leonidas and the others allied with the Conqueror stood in shock at the ease of which Draco had appeared to had beaten Xena. Even Xena herself was stunned by the turn of events as she knew that it ment that taking down Draco just became far more difficult than she could have ever anticipated. Which in turn meant that he truly was now a legitimate threat to not only Amphipolis but to Xena's rule as Conqueror all together. But not willing to go down without a fight, Xena rose to her feet and used the back of her hand to wipe the blood from her split lip away before gripping her sword angerly as she realized how Draco must've gotten his new level of strength.
XENA
(Cold tone) You know you really are pathetic Draco. You couldn't cut it on your own so go crying to the gods to help you beat me. If you think that'll be enough to save you, you're still vastly underestimating me and what I'm about to do to you. So go ahead and call on your God, bring them here and after I'm done with you I'll send a message loud and clear to everyone mortal or not that anyone who dares to come against me will fall by my blade one way or another.
?
Oh you really are good. Then again that doesn't really surprise me.
Xena sneered as a flash of light appeared a quickly faded to reveal the figure that had suddenly appeared amongst them.
XENA
So it was you who gave Draco this power. But why, what is it that you're getting out of this? I can't see you caring one bit about who rules over Greece? So why bother getting involved in any of this at all...
Xena turned to face the new arrival on the scene and glared at them.
XENA
Ares.
Frantic feet ran through a thick forest as Gabrielle ducked behind a tree a tried to catch her breath after she'd been running for quite some time.
ELLE
Gabrielle?! Where'd you go?!
Gabrielle attempted to calm her breathing as she pressed against the tree, hoping that Elle would move on.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I am not being taken back to that mad woman. She's completely insane and I know that it's only a matter of time before I end up the target of her violence. And I am not sticking around and just waiting for that to happen. Plus I'm not exactly fond of the idea of being used as some kind of pawn for whatever's going on between the Conqueror and that guy Draco.
Gabrielle sighed.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I still have to somehow find out where mother, Lila and the others from back home are too.
Gabrielle leaned her head against the tree.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) But how?
She then pushed off the large truck of the tree and looked around at the dense wooded area she now found herself in and decided that the only way she was going to come any closer to finding anyone was to just start walking.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) If I get out of this forest and find civilization, I can start asking around and hopefully find someone who can help me save them or will at least know something about where I can begin to look for where they could've been taken.
Gabrielle continued on for a bit until she suddenly heard rustling coming from behind her. Unsure of what it could be Gabrielle moved to go hide behind another large tree but due to it being darker within the forest she couldn't see too well and got her foot caught on a piece of an unearthed root from a tree sticking out of the ground and tripped. She involuntarily groaned as she hit the ground and alerted Elle to her location as she hurried over to see Gabrielle standing back up.
ELLE
Oh good I found you.
Elle moved closer to Gabrielle and attempted to take her by the arm.
ELLE
Now come one let's get back to the keep.
Gabrielle pulled her arm away and stepped back a little from Elle.
GABRIELLE
I'm not going back there Elle. I don't get it you're such a nice person, why can't you see what a monster that woman you call Lord Conqueror is?? If it's because you're afraid of her? If so then just come with me. We never have to go back or see that evil woman ever again.
For the first time since she had known her the normally cheerful Elle scowled.
ELLE
(Angry tone) The lord Conqueror is not evil or some kind of monster and I'm tired of people who don't even know her thinking that she is.
Gabrielle returned an unhappy look back at Elle.
GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) I saw her ruthlessly beat and then kill a man just because she wanted his city. You tell me how that isn't evil?
ELLE
(Angry tone) She's might have a temper at times but trust me the man who ran that city was not a good person.
GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) Why because he wouldn't give your dear Conqueror what she wanted?
ELLE
Because he owned countless slaves and treated both them and his subjects poorly.
GABRIELLE
You're lying, I saw Olympia with my own eyes and that city was beautiful.
ELLE
Maybe on the outside or for those who were fortunate enough to be nobility. But for the average citizen living under Petrodes' rule was a nightmare.
GABRIELLE
How could you possibly know something like that? You weren't even there.
ELLE
No but I've been there before. Long before the day my family was killed we visited that city to see my uncle who lived there. I was just a little girl but I remember seeing and hearing things that while I didn't fully understand at the time, deep down something told me that it wasn't right.
GABRIELLE
Like what?
ELLE
Rampid poverty, slavery, forced prostitution. People wondering the streets either homeless, searching for their next high or both. Children orphaned or abandoned just wondering the streets with many falling victim to all manner of abuse. And all of it happened under the rule of that terrible man Petrodes.
Elle shook her head in disgust.
ELLE
Honestly I'm not sure if it wouldn't be better off if the lord Conqueror just burned that place to the ground. But her lordship saw that place as something that despite the darkness that she saw could be salvaged if under her control.
GABRIELLE
(Talking to herself) So it wasn't just because she wanted the city as her own?
ELLE
You see? There's much more to the lord Conqueror than what you might hear, think or see. She's human with both good and bad qualities just like anyone else. It's just that a lot of the time those bad ones have the tendency to win out.
Gabrielle gave Elle a blank stare.
GABRIELLE
(Flat tone) You know that isn't exactly the reassuring comment you think it is Elle.
ELLE
Well you get what I mean, now come on let's get out of here. This forest kinda gives me the creeps.
Elle looked around as she felt an uneasy feeling settle over her.
GABRIELLE
I already told you, I'm not going back. I have to find my mother and sister and save them. So don't bother trying to stop me.
Gabrielle turned away to leave before looking over her shoulder at the one person she had come to consider a friend during her time at the Conqueror's keep.
GABRIELLE
Bye Elle. It really was nice to get to know you.
Gabrielle then looked forward and began walking away as Elle called after her.
ELLE
Okay I got wanting to go out to find your family but just how exactly are you supposed to do that? I mean do you even know where you're going?
Gabrielle stopped and turned back to face Elle.
GABRIELLE
Well... no.
ELLE
And if you do find them, what then? You know that whoever has them probably isn't gonna let them go just because you ask nicely.
GABRIELLE
I know that but...
Gabrielle clenched her fist in frustration as the reality of actually saving her mother and sister truly sank in.
GABRIELLE
What am I supposed to do, just forget about them and move on as if nothing happened?
ELLE
Of course not.
Gabrielle tried to fight it but couldn't as the tears began to fall from her eyes when the thought of never seeing her family hit her once again.
GABRIELLE
I never wanted any of this Elle. I just want my family back. I miss them so much everyday. I don't even know if my mother and sister are even still alive or where they could possibly be. I just...
Gabrielle didn't know what else to say as she just cried and Elle held her friend in an effort to comfort her.
ELLE
Don't worry Gabrielle I'm sure they're out there somewhere.
After a moment they separated as Elle got an idea.
ELLE
Hey maybe her lordship can help you find 'em.
Gabrielle scoffed as she wiped away her remaining tears.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Yeah right. Why would she want to help her newest servant find her family?
It's not like she actually cares about me other than what I can do for her.
Elle opened her mouth to say something but stopped when she and Gabrielle suddenly heard rustling in the trees above surrounding them.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) What was that??
She and Elle moved close and stood nervously looking around at the greenery overhead.
ELLE
(Nervous tone) I have no idea.
The noise continued as the two stood unarmed and unprepared for whatever moved above them. Both scared that this might very well be their end. This feeling was only made worse as several masked figures suddenly decended from the trees and surrounded them holding weapons ready to strike. And in that moment Gabrielle was certain that her luck of surviving everything that she had up until that point had finally run out as multiple swords and spears were firmly aimed at her and Elle with their masked welders closing in.
Surrounded by a group of masked, armed strangers Gabrielle and Elle stood close together as Gabrielle frantically tried to think of a way out of their predicament. So with a great amount of caution she slowly raised her hands in an effort to show the strangers she was unarmed.
GABRIELLE
We don't want any trouble and don't have anything of value so please just let us go.
One of the masked strategies, who like the rest of the group was a scantily dressed woman stepped forward and spoke to Gabrielle and Elle from behind the decorative wooden mask she wore obscuring her face.
?1
And why should we believe you when you're the ones who are trespassing on our lands?
Elle looked at the masked woman with a mix of confusion and disbelief.
ELLE
What are you talking about. Everything here and for miles around belongs to the lord Conqueror.
?
Well not here. These are sacred lands belonging to the Amazon's just as it has been long since you or your Conqueror were ever even born.
Gabrielle and Elle looked at each other for a moment as they both began to feel as though they had just gotten themselves into a very bad situation, before returning their eyes to the group of masked women before them.
ELLE
But I thought the lord Conqueror owned everything except for a couple cities in this area.
?1
We Amazon's are a sovereign nation and have a treaty with your Conqueror which allows us to operate according to our own laws and traditions as long as they don't interfere with the Conqueror's business or ability to rule effectively.
GABRIELLE
I don't get it why didn't she just take over your land like she did with everywhere else?
Elle looked at Gabrielle.
ELLE
Because like I've been trying to tell you, her lordship isn't the utterly heartless monster that you and so many others think she is.
GABRIELLE
I'm sorry Elle, you can keep trying to convince me of that she some kind of good or just person, but I've seen the rage and brutal violence that she's capable of. That woman is nothing more than a tyrant who only seems to do things for her own benefit. So even though these women might have some sort of treaty or agreement with her, I'm certain that it's only because she still gets something from them she wants.
Elle scowled.
ELLE
(Angry tone) You know I don't get you Gabrielle. The Conqueror hasn't done anything to you but yet you seem to hate her primarily off of her reputation when you've been living with her for some time now and seen for yourself the kind of woman that she truly is.
Gabrielle returned a scowl of her own back at Elle
GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) She's holding me in that place her, you and everyone else who blindly follows her call home against my will. I'm nothing more than a way to get to one of her enemies. I escaped from one nightmare and ended up right in another one. Because though you say she doesn't own slaves I sure feel like one given the fact that she has me doing stuff for her and I haven't received one single dinar for anything I've done. So don't you stand there and try and tell me that she's just some kind of misunderstood, tortured soul. Because I've both seen and experienced first hand exactly what that woman is like.
With a very autoable and exaggerated clearing of her throat, the masked Amazon that Gabrielle and Elle had originally been speaking with broke into the pairs rather heated conversation.
?1
(Commanding tone) The two of you can argue about your opinions on the Conqueror some other time. Because right now what you both should be more concerned with is explaining why it is that you saw fit to enter our lands unprompted or invited.
Gabrielle and Elle's focus returned to the other woman as Elle spoke up.
ELLE
We apologize if we're trespassing but we didn't know that this was Amazon territory. My friend here wondered off from the lord Conqueror's keep and I was only following after her to bring her back safely.
Gabrielle glared at Elle.
GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) Wandered off? I left because I don't want to be there.
?1
So you're an escaped prisoner then?
The masked woman looked Gabrielle over for a moment.
?1
Interesting. It seems that the Conqueror has grown far more lenient in her treatment of prisoners. Not to mention the level of security she keeps.
GABRIELLE
Well I suppose I'm not a prisoner in the typical sense of the word,, but I was still brought there and held against my will.
ELLE
(Irritated tone) You showed up at her camp injured and exhausted so what would you rather have had her do? Leave you to fend for yourself? Giving the condition you were in when you first arrived I can only imagine how you were when she first found you, so I really don't see how you could've made it much further on your own before you either succumb to your injuries or ended up finding someone who actually did have some kind of anterior motives for what they wanted from you. Instead you were brought somewhere safe and had your injuries treated. You were given warm food, clean clothes and a comfortable place to sleep. So tell me how living in the lord Conqueror's presence has been so terrible.
GABRIELLE
(Angry tone) I never asked for any of this. Sure she might've done that but why? And if I'm not allowed to leave tell me how that dosen't make me her prisoner regardless of the way I'm treated.
ELLE
Well she...
Elle paused for a moment as she didn't exactly have anything to dispute the point that Gabrielle had just made.
GABRIELLE
Not to mention the fact that I literally heard her say that she's only keeping me around because she knows it'll anger one of her enemies. So do you still wanna stand there and try telling me that she isn't an awful person?
Elle sighed not knowing what to say to change Gabrielle's view on Xena at the moment.
ELLE
Given everything you've seen from her if I were in your shoes I guess I can't really blame you for feeling the way you do about the situation. But you have to believe me, despite what you've seen her lordship really isn't the heartless monster you think she is.
GABRIELLE
Well I'm sorry Elle but I really don't see that decent person you seem to think that woman is and sincerely doubt that there will ever anything that'll be enough to convince me otherwise.
Again one of the masked women spoke up, interrupting Gabrielle and Elle's conversation as she addressed one of the other unknown women in the group.
?2
(Irritated tone) This is ridiculous. Why are we simply standing here listening to those two argue when we should be dealing with them for trespassing?
The woman pointed the sword she was holding at Gabrielle and Elle as she stepped closer to them.
?1
That's not your call to make Velasca and you know it.
The other woman who was just addressed as Velasca turned to face the woman who had just spoke as she lifted her mask to reveal a scowl.
VELASCA
(Irritated tone) And what do you suppose we do with them Ephiny? Just let them go? They're trespassers and we have no way of knowing what they might be up to.
The other Amazon also lifted her mask.
EPHINY
Which is why they'll be brought before the queen so she can decide what to do with them. As is the law.
Velasca sneered.
VELASCA
Oh please Melosa has always been far too lenient for her own good.
EPHINY
(Irritated tone) Well regardless of how you feel about how Melosa rules, she's still our queen and you should show her some more respect.
?
Exactly.
Velasca glared at the masked woman who had just decided to insert herself into the conversation.
VELASCA
(Irritated tone) Stay out of this Terreis, just because you're Melosa's daughter doesn't mean you know anything about how our people should be ruled.
Another mask was removed to reveal a young woman that looked to be even younger than Gabrielle.
TERREIS
(Annoyed tone) Hey just because I'm young doesn't make me ignorant to how things work. My mother is a wonderful queen and I don't appreciate you speaking ill of her when she isn't even here.
Velasca glared at the young Amazon.
VELASCA
(Threatening tone) You really are lucky that your Melosa's daughter other wise I would have taught you a very painful lesson in respecting your elders a long time ago. Maybe then you wouldn't be such an obnoxious little brat.
Terreis stepped up to Velasca and looked up at her without a shred of intimidation.
TERREIS
Well my mother isn't here now, so why don't you give it your best shot Velasca. Come on I'll show you that my being an Amazon princess is more than just a title given to me just because of who my mother is.
VELASCA
(Threatening tone) I suggest that you tread very carefully before you make an attempt to start something that we all know you can't finish little girl.
Velasca kept her gaze locked on to Terreis as everyone, including Gabrielle and Elle could feel the immense tension rapidly building between the two. Things seemed to be nearing a boiling point when Ephiny spoke up again.
EPHINY
That's enough, both of you. We have much more important matters to attend to then to have the two of you going at it. Velasca you're an adult so I would expect you to act like it instead of challenging a teenager to a fight over something so ridiculous. And Terreis you're the Amazons princess, you're supposed to know better. I think you're mother would be very disappointed to see you acting this way. Especially when in front of outsiders.
Terreis looked down in dejection as Velasca shot Ephiny an angry glance before turning away and storming off to the side of the group where she stood leaning back against a tree with her arms folded across her chest as she sulked in her anger at both Terreis and now Ephiny. All the while Gabrielle and Elle had remained silent as they watched the heated exchange unsure if they should chance making a run for it while the woman seemed distracted. Gabrielle had just begun to slowly start back away when she felt herself bump into something behind her and looked back to see one of the Amazonian women looking down at her with a very serious stare.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) Oh, um hi.
Gabrielle let out a small nervous laugh as the woman put a firm hand on her shoulder and escorted her back to standing beside Elle as the pair exchanged nervous looks, both having no idea what might happen to them going forward.
EPHINY
Sorry but we can't just allow you two to leave. You are trespassing on our lands whether you knew it before hand or not. And now we have to deal with you accordingly. Which means bringing you before our queen so she can decide what to do with you. Now let's move
Ephiny turned around and began to walk away before pausing in her stride to look back at everyone else.
EPHINY
And someone tie their hands together, we don't need them trying anything and having someone ending up hurt or worse.
The blonde Amazon then continued walking away as did most of the others while a few women stayed behind to bind Gabrielle and Elle's wrists together with rope before leading them off with the rest of the group as the both of them realized that it was wiser for them to simply go along with the women instead of trying to get away as they knew that a fight to escape would be a battle that even working together, the two of them would certainly not be able to win.
XENA
What are you doing here Ares? I sincerely doubt that you give one damn about who has control over a small village like Amphipolis.
The God of War scratched idly at his bearded chin as he shrugged.
ARES
I don't.
Xena scowled.
XENA
(Irritated tone) Then why get involved in any of this at all?
ARES
Why not? After all it's not like we have any kind of agreement or anything that says I can't.
A small smirk crossed the gods face as Xena felt her level of anger raising knowing exactly what Ares meant.
XENA
(Quiet angry tone) So that's it. I turn you down for your so-called "help" and you just couldn't stand the fact that I dared to turn down the almighty God of War. And here I thought Draco was a pathetic little worm.
Ares lost the smile on his face as his expression turned serious with a resentful look directed at the Conqueror.
ARES
(Warning tone) You had better watch yourself Xena and remember just who it is that you're talking to.
XENA
I could say the same for you Ares. You seem to be forgetting the fact that I don't fear or give one single damn about any of you gods at all. You're all nothing but beings who think far too highly of themselves, take whatever you want and expect us mortals to blindly worship and follow you for doing nothing but creating problems for humanity.
ARES
And tell me Xena, just how is that any different from what you do?
Xena scowled for a moment before a small grin appeared on her lips.
XENA
Simple, I couldn't care less about what people think of me. And whether people want to believe it or not what I do isn't solely for my own benefit and greed.
ARES
(Sarcasm) Right, slaughtering countless people all across multiple different lands was definitely for those people's benefit.
XENA
(Angry tone) Fuck off Ares.
ARES
Oh don't worry I'm leaving. I just wanted to let you see why it is that you're about to lose everything you have and how this all could've been avoided if you had been too blind to see what you could've had.
XENA
(Angry tone) Oh why don't you go crying back to Zues and Hera like the little crybaby that you apparently are and leave me to finish putting Draco back in his place.
Tired of Xena's blatant disrespect toward him, Ares stormed up to the Conqueror and stood barely inches from her face as his anger began to rise.
ARES
(Angry tone) You know what Xena your about to learn a very hard lesson in what happens when you decide to screw with the wrong God.
Xena smirked as she showed no fear while standing face to face with the powerful immortal.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Really because it sounds to me that this has more to do with the fact that I wont.
Ares face turned slightly red in rage and frustration as he found himself at a loss for words for a moment before finding his voice once again.
ARES
Forget this. I have better things to do than to waste my time on someone who isn't able to see the potential standing right in front of her.
(Angry tone) Have a nice trip to Tartarus Xena. I'll be sure to tell Hades to reserve a partially nightmarish spot for you when I see 'em.
Xena flashed an evil smile at the God.
XENA
I look forward to it.
Seeing his comment having no effect on the Conqueror only served to anger Ares further as he simply let out a quick frustrated yell before disappearing with a flash and leaving the battlefield. With Ares gone Xena's focus returned to her previous task of facing of against Draco as the powered up warlord took the opportunity to strike while Xena was still distracted. The Conqueror just managed to dodge an incoming strike from Draco and backed off slightly as the two prepared to face off as they both gave their respective army's the command to attack. And with the sounds of steel clashing and yelling around tthem, , Xena and Draco collided in a fight which would soon come to an abrupt ending that would in the not so distant future inadvertently trigger both the beginning of something completely unexpected as well as the end.
Battle tested solders collided in a ferocious struggle as the leaders of the two sides fought their own heated battle for dominance against one another. Xena slashed at Draco with her blade as the opposing warlord used his weapon to block the attack. He then parried and retaliated with a small series of swipes of his own. Xena hastily stepped out his blade's range as Draco's attack missed and Xena immediately took advantage of the opening as she drove her blade toward her opponent. But Draco anticipated the trajectory of Xena's strike and tilted his head to the side causing Xena's attack to miss. And with the both of them too close for Draco to swing his own blade effectively, he instead mounted some unarmed offense as he landed a hard punch in Xena's stomach. The sudden shot caught the Conqueror off guard for a moment as she hunched forward from the powerful hit. But then feeling as though her opponent had thrown a cheep shop at her, Xena let out an angry roar as she threw an elbow back into the side of Draco's face. The shot staggered the warlord as he was forced to back off slightly, thus giving Xena an opportunity to retaliate. The Conqueror yelled as she launched herself at Draco with a downward swing of her weapon. Draco again blocked Xena's attack and the two then proceeded to exchange several attacks on one another with each blocking or dodging their opponents strikes. This went on for several moments until Xena attempted to catch Draco off guard as she feigned attacking from head on as she planted one foot forward and looked to be coming at Draco's midsection with a stab before at the last moment pushing off with her back foot as she pivoted and used the forward momentum to spin around and end up on Draco's side as she continued her blade's swing straight for the warlords neck. Certain that she had outsmarted and out maneuvered her enemy, as no normal person would be able to avoid or stop her attack from Draco's position, the Conqueror could practically taste her victory at hand. The blade came just within a hairs width of Draco's flesh when at speed that was inhumanity possible, his hand shot up and caught Xena's blade in what Xena quickly found to be a surprisingly vice-like grasp. Xena made a brief attempt to pull herself free, but when that failed she opted to use her fist to get her blade away from Draco as she drove it as hard as she could into the side of his face. The warlord's head snapped to the side from the force of the hit. However instead of it causing him to relinquish his hold on Xena's weapon, Draco just returned his head forward as he smiled at the Conqueror, which received a brief surprised look from Xena.
DRACO
(Sarcasm) Oh I'm sorry, was that supposed to hurt?
Xena's expression returned to an unamused scowl after hearing Draco's comment.
DRACO
Well as you're already aware by now, Ares gave me a pretty good boost to my overall vitality. Which includes my physical strength, speed, stamina, overall fighting ability. Basically everything you thought that you had over me on the battlefield you're now hopelessly outclassed in.
XENA
You know Draco you should really focus on actually beating me before you start bragging about needing the help of a god just to beat one person.
DRACO
Oh you're just bitter that you weren't smart enough to take advantage of a once in a lifetime opportunity when it was presented to you. And now all that power that you could've had is now mine. Just as everything else of yours is about to be too.
XENA
If I were you Draco I wouldn't get too far ahead of yourself, because I don't care how much power you get from whatever god you wanna go crawling to, the only way that you'll ever get anything that belongs to me will be to pry it out of my cold, dead hands.
Draco smirked.
DRACO
(Sinister tone) Glad to hear that we actually appear to agree on something here Xena. Because that was exactly what I was planning on doing anyway.
Without warning Draco then gripped his sword with both hands and swung, hoping to catch Xena off guard.. He was nearly successful but Xena was just barely able to get her own blade up in time to block the sudden attack. However the impact of the hit was so strong that it caused the Conqueror step back as she was forced to adjust her footing to a wider stance for leverage before pushing forward and down on her weapon to gradually force Draco's blade down as well.The two fought to overpower one another for a few moments until Xena began to appear to be gaining the upper hand. Though as she forced her opponent's weapon lower, Draco saw a momentary opening in her defenses and took advantage as he took a hand off of his blade and sent a powerful fist right into the side of Xena's head. The hard shot dazed Xena for a second, forcing her to drop her guard. But that was all the opening Draco needed as he landed another hard hit to Xena's temple which dropped the Conqueror to a knee as the world around her became out of focus for a couple seconds before she squeezed her eyes shut and reopened them to restore her vision. The sequence only took seconds at most, however it was long enough for Xena to not see Draco's knee coming at her before it was too late and it smashed into her face. The force of the hit threw Xena back as she laid on the ground with blood now streaming from her new shattered nose. However she didn't have the time to worry about the pain in the middle of her face as threw up her sword in a defensive position and blocked Draco's downward swing at her. With their weapons still locked together, the Conqueror threw out a kick into the warlords stomach and shoved him back. As Draco stumbled back slightly Xena kicked back up to her feet. But as she landed she felt her balance waver slightly as the effects of the hard hit to her head that she had previously received returned in a momentary spell of dizziness. She again shook her head for a second to try regaining her composure but like it had before, this very slight opening was all Draco needed for him capitalize on and take advantage of the golden opportunity that now presented itself before him. Taking his opening before Xena was able to react, Draco lunged forward in an attempt to cut Xena down. But despite her momentary lack of total clarity, the Conqueror was still able to avoid his attack as she blocked and side stepped Draco. She then spun to follow Draco's movements as he moved passed her and readied a counter attack. She had just finished planting her foot from turning when a sudden sharp pain emerged and time appeared to slow down as Xena looked down on see Draco's sword buried nearly halfway into the center of her chest. Her breath caught in her throat as Xena slowly raised her head to look at Draco who learned in close to taunt her over his now inevitable victory over her.
DRACO
I bet you never would have imagined that it would be me of all people who would be the one to conquer the almighty Conqueror.
Draco laughed as Xena coughed on the blood that had begun to rise up in her throat. Her body beginning to weaken and her eyes grew heavy as she heard a rapidly fading voice in the distance that she was unable to distinguish as her legs gave out and she sunk to the ground in front of Draco. The warlord withdrew his blade from the Conqueror's chest and let Xena's body fall to the side before serving Xena's eyes close as the darkness claimed her and heard a voice coming up behind him.
LEONIDAS
No!
Draco turned around and saw Xena's top ranked soldier rushing toward him. The large man roared as he ran in swinging his massive two-handed blade. Draco just managed to step out of the way of the swing as Leonidas quickly put himself between Draco and the fallen Conqueror.
LEONIDAS
My lord, can you hear me?
Leonidas glanced back at Xena's unmoving form as he called out to her, hoping for any kind of reaction but got nothing to signify that Xena was still alive in response. This caused Draco to laugh which received an intense and vengeful stare from the topically even tempered and reserved Leonidas.
DRACO
Looks like this is the end of your almighty Conqueror's reign over Greece. So if you're smart you'll call off the rest of her army and surrender before you and everyone else here ends up just like her.
Leonidas stared intensely at Draco for a moment before slowly crouching down beside Xena's body placing a couple fingers on her neck as he searched for a pulse on his fallen leader. Draco looked on and a satisfied smile crossed his face when he saw Leonidas lower his head in grief before returning his forces back on Draco as he remained crouched.
LEONIDAS
Fine. I'll take her body and well go.
The warlord snickered.
DRACO
What makes you think you're talking her body anywhere? Xena's death at my hands is going to make me both incredibly famous and rich. I can't go letting you take away the only thing that I'll have as proof that I was the one that killed her.
Leonidas stood up and gave a loud whistle before he held his weapon ready to fight.
LEONIDAS
You aren't going to lay another finger on her.
A large number of Xena's solders quickly assembled along side him in response to the coded message that Xena had long previously established multiple of for varying circumstances of which she may not be able to give commands for whatever reason.
DRACO
(Condescending tone) What is this supposed to be your ridiculous attempt at making one last stand to show you're loyalty to a woman that's already dead?
LEONIDAS
You could say that.
Leonidas gave a quick shout and the other men readied their weapons to attack as more of Xena's men showed up behind Draco poised to attack as well.
LEONIDAS
You might think that you won this battle and secured your place as the new ruler over Greece. But the truth is when you took down her lord Conqueror, all you've actually done is unleash the unrestrained wrath of the single greatest army that this or any other country in the known world has seen.
Draco stood unamused and unintimidated by Leonidas' speech as he looked around at the battlefield to see that the vast majority of the fighting had stopped as most of the solders on both sides had gathered behind their respective leaders. With Draco's men behind him and Xena's behind Leonidas as he automatically assumed command in this situation.
DRACO
You're really willing to sacrifice yourselves here just for the body of that bitch you call Lord Conqueror?
Leonidas stood firm as several of Xena's men slowly began to move closer to Draco as they spread out before stopping and standing ready to unleash their assault.
LEONIDAS
Yes. And so are the rest of her lord Conqueror's army.
Draco looked around at the other members of Xena's army and could tell from their expressions that they indeed all shared Leonidas' determination to still fight for their leader even if she was dead. He then thought for a moment and came to the conclusion that even with the increase in strength thanks to Ares, he still didn't stand a chance at winning against the entirety of the Conqueror's army that stood before him, just itching to run him through with their blades. And given that he had already taken Xena out, Draco decided that continuing to fight at this point was unnecessary and could only serve to weaken his numbers that he could more than likely need sometime down the road. After all, with Xena out of the way, it was inevitable that countless other warlords and other various people would begin making moves to try and seize as much power as they could. As most of them feared the Conqueror and had no interest in getting on the infamous woman's bad side. So they had mostly decided it best to remain small and in the shadows until they saw an opportunity that they just couldn't ignore. And news of Xena's death would be just the thing to get those same people to come out of hiding and begin making grabs for power. Draco knew that this would almost certainly cause multiple major conflicts to arise, with even the very high possibly of several wars breaking out across various regions within Greece. And that was something that Draco knew that he needed to be prepared for. There for he felt it not worth fighting any further there over taking a dead body just to have as a trophy of sorts and would have to get rid of anyway once her body would begin to decay.
DRACO
Fine, take the bitch's body if you want it so bad.
Draco moved his arm in a signal for his men to stand down.
DRACO
It's not like it's gonna make any bit of difference anyway giving that most if not all of you here will be dead soon enough right along with her anyway.
Leonidas and many others in the Conqueror's army scowled at Draco as Leonidas bent down and lifted Xena's limp body in his arms before standing back up straight. He spared on last heated glance in Draco's direction before turning away and hurrying off, carrying the Xena.
LEONIDAS
We're moving out, now.
The rest of Xena's army followed Leonidas as he mounted his horse and settled Xena in front of him before turning his stead in the direction of the keep.
LEONIDAS
I'm riding ahead with her. I want some of you to go to Amphipolis and stay there to make sure it's defended. If you need to evacuate everyone there and make sure they get to safely. And while you're there I want one of you to find someone in the village and bring them to the keep. But I can not stress enough that she is to remain completely unharmed by anyone. Understood?
A number of the solders spoke up to confirm that they comprehended their orders.
LEONIDAS
Good. Be sure to remember that last post especially. Now go.
Leonidas flicked the reins on the horse and the animal galloped off as he left the rest of the army behind to carry out his orders that he knew the Conqueror would have given out herself were she able. He took Xena and rode straight for the Conqueror's keep, holding a cloth to the large wound in her chest as he hoped that he would be able to move fast enough to save Xena. Though he felt that despite his frantic effort it may have already been too late.
TO BE CONTINUED...
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