It was just another mid-morning as Gabrielle sat with her eyes held to the words written in front of her. Her whole attention so focused solely on the scroll in her hands, that she never even noticed when a tall figure came up behind her until she felt herself suddenly being grabbed and snatched up. Causing her to let out a quick, startled scream, before hearing a Whisper in her ear.

?
(Whisper) There you are. I've been looking for you

Gabrielle felt herself being held closer to the person behind her as she was let down enough for her feet to be placed back on the floor as the young woman tilted her head back to see a pair of piercing blue eyes looking down at her and smiled.

GABRIELLE
You make it sound like I'm difficult to find.

XENA
Fair point.

The Conqueror smiled as she placed a small kiss on Gabrielle's forehead before allowing the woman to turn in her arms to face her.

GABRIELLE
So was there anything specific you came in here for?

XENA
Nope.

Xena smirked.

XENA
Well other than to find you, so I could do this.

Xena brought her lips to Gabrielle's and the two women lost themselves in one another for a long moment as the simple kiss quickly deepened into something far more passionate, before with a great deal of difficulty, Xena pulled herself away and the two caught their breath.

XENA
Sorry that was a bit more than I had planned. Guess I kinda lost myself there.

Gabrielle smiled as she tried to fight the blush that she knew was creeping onto her face.

GABRIELLE
That's okay, I didn't mind.

XENA
Hmm, that's good to know.

Gabrielle watched as a devilish smiled crossed the Conqueror's face.

XENA
Then let's see how you feel about this.

Suddenly before the younger women could do or say anything, Gabrielle found herself being quickly turned around and held in place as Xena's hands began rapidly moving along her sides, causing the young woman to begin to squirm in the Conqueror's arms as she laughed.

GABRIELLE
(Laughing) Ah, no, stop! Let me go! Stop!

Ignoring Gabrielle's plea as she laughed, Xena continued letting her fingers playfully poke at the young woman for several moments until finally relenting and letting Gabrielle slip from her grasp and turn to face her with a smile on her face as she still giggled a little.

GABRIELLE
I gotta say I wasn't really expecting that.

Xena smiled.

XENA
Exactly.

Gabrielle shook her head slightly in mock disapproval as with idle curiosity, Xena turned her attention to the scrolls that Gabrielle had pulled out to read and Gabrielle thought of how even after everything that she'd seen from the Conqueror, somehow the woman was still able to act in a way that took Gabrielle by complete surprise.

XENA
You really do enjoy these stories, don't you?

Gabrielle shrugged.

GABRIELLE
I guess growing up in a small village with no real option for going very far from it, I've always been drawn to the tales of amazing heroes and adventurers who traveled the lands, getting to see everything that the world has to offer.

Gabrielle sighed slightly.

GABRIELLE
Which was something that I figured I'd never be able to do.

Xena smiled.

XENA
Well if it's travel you're interested in, I guess we'll have to start planning some trips for when spring gets here.

GABRIELLE
Wait, really?

XENA
Sure. If that's something you wanna do?

GABRIELLE
But where would we go?

Xena shrugged.

XENA
Wherever you like. We could ride across the countryside, set sail to the open seas and go to foreign lands both near and far. See sights that one could only dream of. Whatever you want.

The Conqueror's words brought a smile to Gabrielle's as the thought of living out the life she had only dreamed of suddenly felt possible. As well as maybe even returning to Potidea and reuniting with everyone there that she had been forced to leave behind.

GABRIELLE
I'd really like that.

Xena smiled.

XENA
Good. Then after we find your family and the mess with Draco is settled, when the weather gets warmer I'll start making plans for a trip we can take.

Xena placed a kiss on Gabrielle's head.

XENA
But unfortunately right now I have to get back to my study and get some work I've been putting off done.

GABRIELLE
You need me to come with you?

XENA
No, not today. You can stay here and keep reading.

GABRIELLE
I can finish this later.

XENA
No, no. You stay and enjoy yourself. I can handle a little writing on my own just fine.

Xena pulled away from the younger women and began to walk away before calling over her shoulder and smirked.

XENA
But come by later. I'll have some dinner brought up, and we can spend a nice quiet evening together by the fire if you'd like.

Gabrielle smiled and Xena took it as the young woman accepting her invitation. And after letting Gabrielle know around when she should join her, the Conqueror went on her way as she left the archives and returned to her study.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) She didn't mention when I should come, so I hope I'm not disturbing her.

The sun was setting out the window that Gabrielle walked by as she finished climbing the stairs and made her way to Xena's private quarters.

GABRIELLE
Xena?

Gabrielle knocked on the door and a moment later the door opened as Xena greeted her with a smile.

XENA
Hey. I'm glad you came.

GABRIELLE
I'm not interrupting your work am I?

XENA
Not at all. In fact your timing is perfect. I just finished up not long ago.

Xena stepped aside and let Gabrielle in as she shut the door.

XENA
Dinner should be arriving soon. So why don't we go get comfortable while we wait.

Xena held her arm out for Gabrielle to take as the two made their way over to the pillows that were spread out and sat down as they enjoyed some quiet conversation while snuggled up together as the gentle glow from the candles and fireplace flickered and Xena silently admired the way the dim light reflected on Gabrielle's reddish-gold hair as well as a number of other wonderful things she had come to see in the young woman who had so unexpectedly yet so completely stolen her heart. Xena's quiet admiration of Gabrielle however was soon interrupted when a knock on the door broke her attention on the young woman and figuring it was the servants with their meal, Xena called for them to enter. Moments later a few large trays of food were carried in and sat down before Xena and Gabrielle as the smell alone caused Gabrielle's stomach to rumble as she suddenly found herself feeling fairly hungry.

XENA
Here you go.

Xena handed Gabrielle a cup of cider that she poured for her before putting down the pitcher and pointing some for herself some water from another and setting her cup down as she picked up a small piece of meat and took a bite and Gabrielle took a drink from her cup.

GABRIELLE
Mm this is really sweet.

Gabrielle drank down most of her cup and set it down as she poured a bit more before taking another sip and popped a small piece of cheese into her mouth as the two carried on a pleasant conversation and leisurely ate their meal for a while.

XENA
So you were really set to be married before everything happened?

Xena found herself somewhat surprised by the unexpected revelation that had come up after she had asked Gabrielle what her life was like back in Potidea.

GABRIELLE
I was. But while he was a friend and a good man, I just didn't love him.

XENA
But how you felt about the situation didn't matter did it?

Gabrielle sighed.

GABRIELLE
No not really. I mean I know my family loves me, but that's just how things are done around there. If you're a girl, once you're old enough, you're set-up with a "good man to marry" and then expected to take on the role of home keeper and mother.

Gabrielle sipped her drink as Xena saw a look of slight sadness shown in her eyes.

XENA
And that's something you didn't want.

GABRIELLE
Not really, no.

The young woman let out a small, Insincere chuckle as she thought of something.

GABRIELLE
It's kinda crazy how if my village was never attacked, and I hadn't gotten away and found you, I would've been forced into a living a life that I know would've made me miserable. I mean, I'm not saying that I'm happy we were attacked and my family and friends to be taken, I just...

Gabrielle fell silent and lowered her head as Xena reached over and placed her hand over the other woman's.

XENA
It's okay Gabrielle. I know you would never wish for anything like that to happen to anyone. Let alone the people you care for.

The Conqueror took her other hand and gently cupped Gabrielle's cheek, causing Gabrielle to look her in the eyes.

XENA
But at the same time you deserve to be happy. And based on what I'm hearing, despite being surrounded by the people you love, you weren't truly happy there, were you?

Gabrielle didn't answer, but the look in her eyes told Xena that here assessment of how Gabrielle felt was correct.

XENA
And what about now? Are you happy being here? Happy with... me?

A soft smile crossed Gabrielle's lips as she put her head over the Conqueror's.

GABRIELLE
There's nowhere in the world I'd rather be than with you, Xena. I love you.

XENA
I love you too, Gabrielle. You don't know how happy it makes me to hear that.

Xena wrapped the woman in her embrace and held her for a moment before hearing Gabrielle speak.

GABRIELLE
Xena, I can't really breathe.

XENA
Oh, sorry. I didn't realize I was holding you so tight.

The Conqueror let Gabrielle go and let her sit up straight but noticed that she appeared to be struggling to breathe still, which immediately caused Xena to become concerned.

XENA
Hey are you okay.

GABRIELLE
I don't know.

Gabrielle huffed repeatedly as she tried to catch her breath, but for whatever reason was unable as the Conqueror began to try and find out what was wrong as the young woman's panic began to set in.

GABRIELLE
I... can... hardly... breathe.

Gabrielle began to gasp frantically as her vision began to blur then fade as she could feel her body becoming heavy as she desperately reached for Xena.

GABRIELLE
(Weak tone) Xena what's.... going.... o....

Gabrielle's voice faded out as Xena felt her body go completely, limp in her arms.

XENA
Gabrielle?

Xena moved Gabrielle to look at her face and saw that her eyes were closed and tapped her cheek to try and stir her.

XENA
Gabrielle, hey open your eyes.

Not getting any reaction Xena shook the limp young woman slightly.

XENA
Come on, wake up.

Again Gabrielle remained motionless as Xena quickly held her hand under Gabrielle's nose to check if she was breathing and felt her heart drop when she didn't feel anything. Causing her to quickly lay the young woman down as she pressed her lips to Gabrielle's and blew before pulling back and putting her hands together as she began pressing ďown several times in the center of Gabrielle's chest.

XENA
Damn it, come on.

No response still, Xena repeated her actions over and over as her actions yielded the same non response each time which only served to push her further into her desperate attempts, before finally getting up and rushing to the door which she opened and shouted for anyone to hear her.

XENA
I need the healers up here now!

Leaving the door open, Xena swiftly returned to where Gabrielle layed as she continued desperately trying to find out what exactly was wrong with her. But even then Xena knew uncovering the problem was one thing, but it was a whole nother issue of whither she would be able to even do anything about it. Or if Gabrielle's life was already over and the Conqueror didn't even know it.

Unconscious and unresponsive, Gabrielle laid on the floor of Xena's room as the Conqueror herself worked frantically to get the young woman breathing once again.

XENA
Come on Gabrielle.

Xena again covered the other woman's mouth with her own and blew before resuming chest compressions.

XENA
Just breathe.

When nothing changed, Xena kept repeating her actions as she pleaded for Gabrielle to breathe. The fear of losing the young woman that had come to mean more to her than Xena thought anyone ever could sank in as she continued to get no reaction from anything she was doing.

XENA
This can't be happening. Just breathe Gabrielle, breathe damn it!

The Conqueror kept up her attempts to resuscitate Gabrielle, not noticing when a few healers arrived on the scene to see Xena despitely trying to save the young woman that remained unresponsive on the floor. Not knowing what more they could do at the moment, the healers just moved closer and looked on at the situation and watched Xena's continuing efforts. Though by this time a small part of Xena had begun to question if too much time had gone by and the lack of air had already taken its toll and Gabrielle wasn't going to be able to come back.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) No, no its not too late. Not yet. I can still save her. I WILL save her. Come on Gabrielle.

Again, Xena pressed her lips to Gabrielle's and breathe into her, trying desperately to force air into her lungs before continuing to press up and down on the woman's chest.

XENA
Wake up. Wake up. Gabrielle, breathe. Come on. Come on, breathe. Breathe!

Xena put her ear to Gabrielle's chest and listened for a heartbeat to make sure the younger women still had one, and heard a faint thumping that kept her hope going as she again blew into Gabrielle's mouth before rhythmically pumping her hands in the center of the young woman's chest.

XENA
Come on, Gabrielle. Come on. Don't leave me.

Still getting no reaction from Gabrielle, and at a complete loss of anything more that she could do, sheer panic set in as the normally stoic and logical Xena's eyes began to overflow with tears and in an act of desperation began slamming the side of her closed fist against Gabrielle's chest as she continued her pleas for the young woman to awaken.

XENA
Don't you leave me! Don't leave me! Don't leave me!

Xena's fist came down on Gabrielle's chest again and again with each desperate plea.

XENA
Wake up!

Gabrielle remained unresponsive as Xena again pounded on the young woman's chest.

XENA
Wake up!

Again nothing happened as Xena cried as desperately brought her fist against Gabrielle yet again.

XENA
Wake up!

Crying Xena hung her head as all seemed lost, and her fist hit Gabrielle's chest once more, and she suddenly heard the young woman gasp loudly and instantly looked up as Gabrielle gasped and coughed as she tried to catch her breath as Xena could tell that she was having a very difficult time doing so.

XENA
Just try to relax, it'll make it easier.

GABRIELLE
(Gasping) Xena.

XENA
Don't try to talk. Just keep breathing.

The Conqueror pressed her ear to Gabrielle's chest again and listened to Gabrielle breathe and could hear that something was clearly very wrong as Gabrielle rasped with each breath she took and Xena quickly turned the young woman to her side so she wouldn't choke and let her spit up whatever it was as she breathed a sigh of relief and rubbed Gabrielle's back slightly as she tried to soothe Gabrielle as well as herself.

XENA
That's it Gabrielle. It's alright now. You're gonna be okay.

Still not knowing what had caused the young woman to stop breathing and fall unconscious in the first place Xena began to examine Gabrielle as thoroughly as possible as she glanced over at the healers that were still standing by.

XENA
Well don't just stand there, go get me some herbs.

Immediately the healers moved to gather a verity of herbs, bowls, water and anything else that the Conqueror might need and brought it over to her as Xena continued her examination of Gabrielle to determine what she needed to do. Then as Xena looked around for any clues as to what had happened her eyes landed on the cup that Gabrielle had been drinking from and picked it up to examine its contents. Giving the cider a quick sniff, nothing initially stood out to her as being off and brought the cup to her lips as she took a very small sip and after accessing the taste for a moment something about it quickly stood out, and she spit the cider back into the cup and swore as she put the cup down and grabbed the pitcher of the remaining cider, giving that a quick taste test of that as well.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Aconite. Damn it. This being put in here is no accident.

A scowl formed on the Conqueror's face as she went through the herbs that had been brought to her, picking several out, and quickly began crushing them up together in a bowl as she heard Gabrielle gasping.

XENA
It's okay, just hold on another minute and I'll have you fixed right up.

Though Xena made herself sound optimistic for Gabrielle's sake, the situation actually had the woman very worried as she knew just how deadly Aconite was. Not to mention what the remnants of the deathly plant were doing in the beverage that Gabrielle had drunk multiple cups of.

XENA
Okay come here.

Finishing mixing everything that she had put together, Xena put an arm around Gabrielle and moved her as she held her up so she was laying at slightly elevated angle and put the cup to the young woman's lip.

XENA
Drink this.

Still not knowing what was happening, Gabrielle did as she was told and took a sip from the cup before pulling her mouth away as she grimaced at the foul taste.

XENA
Ignore the taste and just drink it Trust me it'll make you feel better.

Inspite of the concoction tasting awful, Gabrielle drank it all the mixture that the Conqueror gave her. And once the cup was empty, Xena put it down and stood up as she lifted Gabrielle into her arms and moved to carry her several feet into her bedroom and layed her down in her bed.

GABRIELLE
(Groggy tone) I don't feel right Xena. What's happening?

Xena pulled the covers over Gabrielle and gently brushed a few reddish-gold locs away from the younger women's eyes.

XENA
Shh. You let me worry about that. What I gave you should make you feel better soon. But for now just stay here and rest.

Xena leaned down and placed a light kiss on Gabrielle's forehead before standing up straight and making sure the young woman was comfortable.

XENA
I have something important to do. So you stay here and I'll be back in a bit.

GABRIELLE
(Groggy tone) Okay.

Xena stood watching Gabrielle for a couple of moments as the younger women's eyes slowly closed, and she quickly fell asleep. Then after the Conquerer made sure that she would be okay to be left alone for a little while, the woman left the room as she stormed out of her private quarters and found Leonidas who could see that something was wrong due to the fierce scowl on the Conqueror's face.

LEONIDAS
What's the matter, my lord?

XENA
I don't have the time to explain. But right now I want you to go up and stand guard outside my quarters.

LEONIDAS
Has something happened?

XENA
(Angry tone) I just told you I don't have the time to explain. Now stop asking questions and follow orders. Now go.

Hearing the seriousness in Xena's voice as she pointed behind her, the lieutenant brought his fist to his chest in salute before he began walking toward Xena's quarters.

XENA
And under no circumstances are you or anyone else allowed to go inside unless Gabrielle sounds like she's in trouble.

A confused and concerned expression fell over Leonidas' face as the thought that something had happened to Gabrielle crossed his mind.

LEONIDAS
Did something happen to Gabrielle? Is she okay?

Xena's scowl grew more intense as Leonidas realized that she must've been in a hurry if something had happened to Gabrielle.

LEONIDAS
Right. I'll go to your quarters immediately.

Giving her lieutenant a quick nod, Xena continued on as she quickly disappeared down the stairs and Leonidas went to stand guard outside of her quarters.

XENA
(Stern tone) Alright everyone stop what you're doing immediately.

The entirety of the kitchen froze as the door was suddenly flung open and the Conqueror stormed in and began scanning the room.

ELLE
Your lordship. What brings you here?

Xena glared over at the young woman and sneered. Causing Elle to take a step back as the Conqueror's attention moved on to the others in the room.

XENA
(Stern tone) Now all of you step away from what you're doing and go line up against the wall.

The kitchen staff looked at each other, confused by what was going on, until Xena shouted.

XENA
(Angry tone) I'm not going to keep repeating myself every time I give people around here an order. Now go stand against the wall.

Xena slammed her fist against the table she was standing beside causing a couple of people to jump slightly before everyone did as commanded and moved to the wall that Xena had instructed them to stand by. Everyone that is except for Cyrene who approached her daughter with an unhappy look on her face.

CYRENE
Xena what are you doing?

XENA
Not now mother.

The Conqueror moved passed the older woman as she looked around the room for anything that might stand out as suspicious before beginning to rummage through everything that was on the shelves as well as searching in every container she saw, pushing aside anyone who happened to be in her path.

CYRENE
(Stern tone) Xena! What's wrong with you?

Cyrene reached out and grabbed the Conqueror's arm as she tore a sack of grain open and had begun to dump the contents onto the floor, causing Xena to stop as she looked at the woman with an angry glare.

XENA
Someone here poisoned the cider that was brought up to my room, and Gabrielle drank it.

Cyrene looked at Xena in disbelief.

CYRENE
That can't be possible. I've been here all day. I would've noticed if someone had added something to any of the drinks or food.

XENA
Well they did. And Gabrielle nearly died because of it.

CYRENE
Is she okay?

XENA
She should be now. Though for a bit I thought I was gonna lose her.

Cyrene could see the pain in Xena's eyes that spoke volumes of just how much Gabrielle meant to her daughter. And wondered how it could be possible for anyone to want Gabrielle dead.

CYRENE
I'm so sorry Xena. But why would anyone want to kill...

A sudden noise cut off Cyrene off as both her and Xena's attention was drawn to the back of the kitchen, where they saw a figure hurrying out of a window. Knowing that must have been the culprit Xena moved passed the older woman and rushed over to catch the escapee that was wearing a long hooded cloak.

XENA
Oh no you're not going anywhere.

Xena reached out and grabbed the ankle of the person as she found herself being kicked several times as the cloaked figure tried desperately to get away from her. But for as hard as the person tried to break free, Xena's strength was too much for them to escape from as the Conquerer yanked them hard once more and forcibly dragged the hooded figure back inside the brought the person to the floor, pinning them down.

XENA
Why the hurry?

The figure struggled under Xena who kept them in place and grabbed onto the person's shoulder as she turned them over so she could see the face of the one that it seemed likely responsible for the poison and sneered as their identity was revealed as Cyrene stood behind Xena and gasped in shock as the culprits hood fell back.

CYRENE
(Surprised tone) Isidora?

Standing in the kitchen along with Cyrene and the rest of the kitchen staff, Xena clung tight to the cloak and shirt of Isidora who she had just been caught suspiciously trying to run off while the Conqueror had been briefly informing her mother about Gabrielle having been poisoned. And though the old woman struggled to get free from Xena's grasp, she was unable to pry the woman's hands off of her as she found herself being dragged away from the window she had tried escaping from and shoved against the nearby wall.

CYRENE
Xena! I get that you're upset, but she's an old woman.

Xena glanced over at Cyrene for a moment.

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) Age means nothing. Anyone can be a killer or become one at any time I don't care if she's two hundred years old. If she tried to murder someone, especially someone like Gabrielle, I'll make damn sure that she pays for it.

CYRENE
Xena, I understand that sometimes Isidora can be a bit... abrasive.

Isidora scowled at the comment as Cyrene continued pleading her case.

CYRENE
But that doesn't mean she's an attempted murderer.

XENA
And we also don't know she's not. After all, it's never a very good look when a crime is simply mentioned and someone just suddenly takes off for seemingly no reason.

Xena looked at Isidora who simply glared at her.

XENA
Isn't that right?

The old woman said nothing as Cyrene continued to try and get a full grasp on the situation, as she couldn't think of why anyone would want to kill Gabrielle. Least of all an old woman of whom to Cyrene's knowledge, Gabrielle hadn't had a lot of interaction with for the as long as she had been there.

CYRENE
But you don't know if she's the one responsible. It could be someone else. Plus, are you absolutely certain that Gabrielle was in fact poisoned?

XENA
Without a doubt.

Xena returned her attention to Isidora.

CYRENE
But why? Why would anyone want to kill Gabrielle?

XENA
You do remember that this isn't the first time someone's tried killing her.

Xena quickly reminded Cyrene of the events that took place involving the Amazon's and how Gabrielle had become a target by Velasca after Gabrielle had been granted Terreis's rite of caste as the young Amazon princess laid dying after Velasca's attempt at killing both Terreis and queen Melosa in her quest to seize the Amazon throne.

CYRENE
Oh, I see your point. But that was a completely different scenario. What reason could Isidora possibly have to make an attempt on Gabrielle's life?

The elderly woman cackled, drawing Cyrene and Xena's attention as she spoke.

ISIDORA
(Ominous tone) For being the great and powerful ruler you claim to be, you don't even know what's happening right under your own roof.

A fierce scowl formed on the Conqueror's face at the words Isidora spoke.

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) So you admit it was you.

ISIDORA
(Ominous tone) I never said that. But I am curious to know just how long it took until you gave up trying to bring a corpse back to life. How long did Gabrielle lay gasping for air as you looked on, unable to do anything until she finally stopped struggling completely.

The words hitting Xena's ears as Isidora spoke so coldly about Gabrielle dying caused the Conqueror to see red as in an instant her hand shot out and grabbed the old woman by her throat lifting her off the floor and pinning her against the wall.

XENA
(Angry tone) I'll kill you.

The woman's feet remained suspended off the ground, kicking frantically while Isidora fought to pry Xena's hands from her neck as the Conqueror squeezed tighter, completely cutting off the woman's airway.

XENA
(Sinsister/ Mocking tone) What's the matter, can't breathe?

Xena started coldly at the struggling women as Cyrene's calls for her to stop were seemingly not even heard by the enraged Conqueror who squeezed tighter as the thought of someone heartlessly trying to kill Gabrielle ran through her mind. But then as her mind flashed to images of Gabrielle, and she remembered the terrified look Gabrielle had anytime she had witnessed Xena's brutal acts of anger and violence. Then Xena thought how if Gabrielle could see her at that moment that she would certainly have the very same expression, and be terrified of the brutally that Xena was showing to an old woman. Women being something that unless skilled warriors like herself, Xena had sworn were off limits to receive her wrath and suddenly completely let go of Isidora and let the woman drop to the floor as the Conqueror walked a few steps away and ran her hands over her face and tried to bring her monstrous rage under control, as she heard Isidora gasp and cough now able to breathe again and laughed.

ISIDORA
(Breathing heavily) You've gotten soft, Conqueror. You can't even kill me for taking your precious little Gabrielle away from you.

Xena turned to face the old woman as she gave her a feral grin.

XENA
(Sinister tone) Then if I were you, I'd count yourself lucky that your little plan failed. Because if it hadn't, you would already be on a one way trip to the afterlife. Regardless of what my mother or anyone said or did.

Xena walked back over to Isidora, grabbing her by the arm and forcing the woman to her feet.

ISIDORA
What, she's still alive?!

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) That's right. You failed in whatever you were hoping to accomplish by killing her. And now you're gonna tell me exactly what it was that you had planned.

Isidora gave Xena an evil smirk.

ISIDORA
Make me. Oh, right you can't because you're afraid of what mommy and sweet, little Gabrielle will think of you if you go back to your heavy-handed and violent ways of getting what you want.

XENA
(Ominous tone) Is that what you think?

The old woman chuckled.

ISIDORA
Oh I know that for a fact. You see Xena much like everyone else around here, I've noticed you aren't the same woman we all knew until several months ago. You've changed Xena. You let your guard down and allowed yourself to form a very glaring weakness.

XENA
Quiet angry tone) A glaring weakness?

Xena thought for a quick second before realizing exactly what Isidora was talking about.

XENA
Quiet angry tone) You mean Gabrielle.

ISIDORA
That's right. Though it seems I didn't do quite enough to actually get the job done.

The old woman sighed.

ISIDORA
Draco isn't gonna be happy when he hears about this.

XENA
Quiet angry tone) Draco?

Xena clenched her teeth in an effort to restrain herself from brutally and savagely beating, then killing the remorseless woman who had nearly succeeded in killing Gabrielle. Instead, Xena grabbed Isidora by the front of her shirt and lifted her to look at her at eye level.

XENA
(Ominous tone) What the fuck does this have to do with Draco?!

Isidora laughed again.

ISIDORA
Oh poor, naive Xena. You really had no clue that I've been working for Draco as a spy for the entire time that I've been here.

XENA
How's that possible? You've been working here for years.

The old woman smiled.

ISIDORA
I know. And I was sure I'd be found out. But to my amazement, you apparently never suspected a thing.

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) So this whole time, you've been working for Draco. Feeding him information about who knows what that you've seen and heard going on here.

Xena angerly slammed her fist on the counter beside her as she continued.

XENA
It's no wonder he's taken such a relaxed approach in his efforts to take me out.

Xena paused as a rather curious question came to mind.

XENA
But while Draco not coming after me directly now makes sense, what I don't get is why you would poison Gabrielle instead of coming after me directly?

ISIDORA
I wouldn't say that Gabrielle was my target specifically. It was more of a cover all to put the Aconite in both the wine and cider that was sent to your room. Though, the hope was that you would both drink it. Which would make you suffer even more as you lay watching Gabrielle die right in front of you while you lay unable to do anything to save her as you suffer the same fate.

XENA
I guess I'm lucky I only drank the water I already had in my room.

The Conqueror leaned closer to Isidora in an intimidating manner.

XENA
Thought you didn't do a very good job of hiding the taste. All it took was one sip for me to notice the drinks had been tampered with, along with what was put in 'em.

The old woman smirked.

ISIDORA
(insincerely) It's just too bad Gabrielle isn't quite as observant.

XENA
(Angry tone) You sadistic bitch.

The Conqueror put her hand on Isidora's throat again.

XENA
(Quiet angry tone) I should kill you right where you stand.

ISIDORA
(Gasping/ taunting tone) But I think we both know you won't. Not in front of your dear mother who you so desperately don't want to disappoint any further. And then if Gabrielle found out.

XENA
(Angry tone) Enough!

Unable to hold herself back any longer and in an explosion of vengeful rage, Xena balled up her fist and pulled back before quickly throwing it forward as Isidora flinched in fear of Xena's wrath as the Conqueror let out a furious yell and slammed her fist into the wall right beside the old woman's head. The woman froze in fear as Xena put her face barely inches from hers and stared at her with an almost crazed look in her eyes.

XENA
(Sinister tone) You think you have me all figured out, don't you? Well think again. Because you don't know nearly as much as you think you do. You or Draco.

An evil smile formed on the Conqueror's face.

XENA
(Sinister tone) Because in spite of yours or Draco's underhanded tactics you still couldn't succeed. Whether it was poisoning me directly or targeting her instead in order to try and make me vulnerable and distracted enough for him to take advantage and come after me in full force, giving him a much better opportunity for defeating me completely. And if you assumed due to my feelings for someone else that I wouldn't do anything to you or anyone else who attempts to come after me or anyone I care about, you have no idea just how very wrong you are.

ISIDORA
Really? Because from the way I see it, if what you just said was actually true, you would've just killed me already and been done with it.

XENA
(Sinister tone) Oh, but what you don't seem to understand is I realized that simply killing you right here and now would be much too simple. No, I don't plan on being nearly so lenient as to make your death a quick one.

Xena pulled back.

XENA
(Sinister tone) No, I'm gonna make you suffer. Much like the way you were so completely fine with making Gabrielle, a completely innocent person in all of this, suffer. And at the same time, I'll send a message to Draco, reminding him that he's living on borrowed time. Because if he thinks I'm just going to sit by and let this go, he has no clue what I'm capable of when someone really passes me off.

With that Xena grabbed Isidora by the arm and forcibly dragged the struggling women to the door of the kitchen as Cyrene saw the sheer rage in her eyes and knew it was best for her not to get in the Conqueror's way as she stood watching Xena and questioned how she could've believed that her daughter had actuality changed.

XENA
Take her to the dungeon. And make sure she's put in the coldest, darkest cell we have.

Outside the dinning room Xena spotted a couple guards that were making their rounds and shoved Isidora at them. Though unsure of what the keeps head cook could have done to warrant being ordered to be locked up, the guards responded with the standard "yes, my lord" as they didn't ask questions and took Isidora by her arms to escort her to a cell.

XENA
And make sure there's always a guard kept posted by her cell. I don't want her trying anything to get out of whatever punishment I decide to give her later.

Again the guards gave a "Yes my lord" and walked away with Isidora as the woman struggled to get free and yelled back at Xena.

ISIDORA
You think anything you do to me will make any difference? It's already too late, Xena. Even if it didn't work this time, how many times can you cheat death until your luck runs out? Draco's coming for you, Xena. And when he does, there won't be anything that will save you from him finally finishing this once and for all.

Xena glared at the woman as she was dragged further away.

XENA
Good. I'll be waiting.

The room was quite as the door slowly opened and Xena stepped back into her private quarters after taking a little time to calm down from confronting Isidora and the revelation of her being working for Draco and everything that came from it. She leaned her head back against the door as she found herself suddenly feeling tired and looked for the first time noticed just how late it was. So with a sigh Xena pushed herself off the door and moved to light a candle and brought it to her bedroom where she saw Gabrielle where she left her still tucked into her bed. The thoughts of how close it had come to Gabrielle falling victim to being nothing more than a pawn in the war between herself and Draco, gave Xena pause. Causing the question of what she was even actually fighting Draco for to cross her tired mind. But being too physically tired,  as well as feeling mentally and emotionally exhausted from the days events to think about it anymore for the time being as well, Xena decided that nothing more could be done about it right then and pushed everything to the back of her mind as she changed into something more comfortable and sat on the edge of her bed, opposite to the side where she had placed Gabrielle earlier. The candle by the bedside illuminated the young woman's face with a soft glow as Xena sat there in silence for several moments watching Gabrielle sleep so peacefully. The effects of the attempt on her life not apparent, as Xena felt relieved that she had indeed managed to give Gabrielle the antidote to the poison in time. But even so Xena decided that it was better to heir on the side of caution and just let Gabrielle sleep right where she was so if needed Xena can keep an eye out for any more problems. So after getting under the covers and blowing out the candle, Xena laid there on her side and silently kept watch over Gabrielle through the quiet darkness until her heavy eyes finally closed, and her consciousness drifted away. And as Xena let herself surrender to her slumber, she had the thought of everything that had happened since she had first encountered the sleeping blonde next to her, and thought how she could no longer picture a life without Gabrielle by her side.

It was late morning when Gabrielle began to stir and her eyes slowly fluttered open. As her surroundings came into focus and her sleepy mind became more clear, the realization of where she was caused her a good deal of confusion.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Wait this is Xena's room? And I'm in her bed. Why?

Gabrielle rubbed her forehead as she tried to think but when she tried to remember the What happened the previous night. But after coming to the Conqueror's room for dinner everything else afterward was all a blank.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) What happened? I didn't drink anything other than cider so why don't I remember a lot of the night or why I'm here now.

Gabrielle continued trying to piece together what could have happened to her for a few more moments, when her internal questioning was interrupted by the sound of a door opening, and she looked to see Xena walking in and stopping when she saw Gabrielle sitting up in bed looking at her.

XENA
You're awake.

Gabrielle watched as the Conqueror moved to put the tray of food she was carrying down on a nearby table and walked over to where Gabrielle sat in bed.

XENA
How ya feeling?

GABRIELLE
Um okay I guess.

XENA
Well that's good to hear. Okay let's take a look at you

Gabrielle didn't have time to ask Xena anything before she felt the Conqueror's hand gently cupping her chin and tilting her head back slightly as she used the thumb on her other hand to lift each of Gabrielle's eyelids open further as she seemed to inspect the younger women.

XENA
Can you breathe okay?

GABRIELLE
Yes?

After a moment Xena let Gabrielle go and turned away to pick up the tray she brought in.

XENA
Anything feel off or not right?

GABRIELLE
Well I am a bit confused about why I'm here, and I can't really remember a lot of last night.

Gabrielle looked at Xena as the Conqueror brought over a tray of food.

GABRIELLE
Xena what happened last night. Why was I sleeping in your bed? And why can't I remember a lot of the night?

Xena placed the tray on the bed in front of Gabrielle as she sat at the young woman's feet that were tucked beneath the blanket covering Gabrielle's lower half.

XENA
I didn't know any easy way to put this but...

Xena paused not knowing how exactly she should tell Gabrielle that she was the target of another attempt on her life. Something that she certainly never deserved to have happen to her either time it happened.

GABRIELLE
But what?

Gabrielle looked at the Conqueror and could see what could only be described as a pained expression in the woman's eyes and placed her hand over Xena's as it rested on the bed beside her.

GABRIELLE
 Please Xena, what ever it is, I can take it. I don't want you to treat me as though I'm too fragile or nieve to handle the painful things that happen.

Hearing the young woman's plea and knowing that she couldn't keep something like this from her, Xena took a slow breath and turned her hand over to hold Gabrielle's in hers.

XENA
Last night you nearly died Gabrielle.

Shocked by what she had just heard, it took Gabrielle a moment to fully register what Xena had just said.

GABRIELLE
I almost died? What? But how, I don't... what happened?

XENA
The cider you drank was poisoned.

GABRIELLE
I was poisoned? Why? By who?

XENA
Don't worry I'm taking care of it.

GABRIELLE
Okay but that doesn't answer my questions.

Xena eyed the younger woman as she put her best fierce Conqueror look on her face.

XENA
You know I remember the days when you barely said a word unless directly asked.

Gabrielle smiled as she knew full well that Xena putting on her Conqueror persona for her was nothing more than a poorly veiled hollow threat.

GABRIELLE
Hey you aren't the only one that's changed around here.

Xena's face changed to a blank expression as her bluff was called, and she smirked at the thought of just how right Gabrielle was. No longer was she the sacred, quiet and timid young woman that had wandered into Xena's camp and then was brought to the keep. In the recent months she had shown herself to be a cheerful, kind, talkative young woman. Of which had at first taken Xena by surprise until she figured that this must-have been Gabrielle's true personally. Which made Xena's heart warm to know that Gabrielle had become comfortable enough with being around her to be her actual self. And brought a smile to Xena's face as she let her Conqueror scowl fade away.

XENA
I suppose I can't argue with you there.

Xena sighed as her and Gabrielle's expressions returned to being serious.

GABRIELLE
Please Xena, tell me why this happened. Don't you think I deserve to know why I almost died?

Xena sighed again as she knew that if she were in Gabrielle's position she'd be demanding to know the same thing. And though she wanted to try and protect the younger women from the darkest parts of what life could be like for those around her could be, Xena knew that she wouldn't be able to shield Gabrielle from the harsh reality forever. After all with everything that Gabrielle already been through and seen, it wasn't as though she was unaware of just how painful life could be. And so after a brief moment of silence Xena told Gabrielle everything that she knew about the situation.

XENA
It was Isidora. She put poison in the cider you drank in the hopes it would kill you.

GABRIELLE
Isidora?

Now somehow feeling even more confused than before, Gabrielle tried to process the new information and figure out why the keeps lead cook would possibly want her dead.

GABRIELLE
Why? I barely even spoken to her. What could I have possibly done to make her wanna kill me?

XENA
Nothing Gabrielle.

Xena moved her hands to hold Gabrielle's face.

XENA
You've done nothing wrong. This wasn't about you. The only reason you were targeted was to get to me. Isidora's a spy working for Draco and you were just collateral in their efforts to get to me.

Xena pulled Gabrielle into a tender embrace.

XENA
And I'm so sorry that you ended up getting put in the middle of such a mess.

Gabrielle let herself be held as Xena kissed her blonde head and just held her a few moments before letting Gabrielle go and sit back upright.

GABRIELLE
Why are you apologizing? You said that I wasn't to blame for what Isidora did, but this isn't your fault either Xena.

XENA
But it is. This war between myself and Draco, my inability to see a danger that's right under my nose is the whole reason why that hag was even able to go undetected as a spy in the first place. Which had a different impact on giving her the opportunity to do what she did to you.

GABRIELLE
Xena. .

Not knowing what she could say that could convince Xena of her innocence in the matter, Gabrielle fell silent for a moment before more questions about the overall situation came to mind.

GABRIELLE
So where's Isidora now?

XENA
She was brought to the dungeon beneath the keep, waiting until I decide on exactly what I'm gonna do to her.

Gabrielle gave Xena a look of surprise.

GABRIELLE
Do to her? You mean locking her up isn't her punishment?

XENA
Of course not. You didn't think that I can just let someone try killing someone in my keep and not have there be severe consequences for doing so.

GABRIELLE
Severe consequences?

Gabrielle paused as the realization of what Xena meant hit her.

GABRIELLE
Xena, you don't seriously intend on executing Isidora, do you?

Xena sighed as she realized that getting the young woman in front of her to understand why she had to do what she already had planned.

XENA
Gabrielle the punishment for a crime like this is death. She tried to kill you.

GABRIELLE
And the solution is to kill her instead?

Xena sighed again.

XENA
It's not killing her.

Gabrielle eyed Xena.

GABRIELLE
Isn't it though? Or do we have very different definitions of what the word executing means.

Xena scowled.

XENA
It's not the same thing Gabrielle. A death sentence is a completely valid punishment for what Isidora did and attempted to do. And that isn't just by my standards.

GABRIELLE
But...

XENA
(Stern tone) This isn't up for discussion.

Xena stood up from where she had been sitting on the edge of the bed.

XENA
(Stern tone) Now I'm sorry if you don't like it, but that's the way it is. You're the one who didn't wanna be treated as if you were unable to handle the hard things that came with life, so here you go. Things happen that you aren't going to like and there's nothing you can do to change it. The sooner you understand that, the better.

The Conqueror began to turn to walk away.

GABRIELLE
Yeah well I'm the one that Isidora tried to kill. So shouldn't I have a say in what happens to her?

Xena paused in her steps and turned back toward Gabrielle who looked at her defiantly. A look that Xena had never seen before but silently admitted she liked seeing the passion that had been lit in the green eyes that were looking at her so intensely. And having never seen Gabrielle act so passionately about something before, Xena decided to at the very least see what Gabrielle had in mind.

XENA
And just what would you do? And don't say let her go because that's not happening.

GABRIELLE
I don't know yet. But I know that there has to be a better option for all of this than just sending an old woman to her death.

Gabrielle thought for a moment as she tried to come up with something that she thought might appeal to the Conqueror.

GABRIELLE
I mean what would killing her actually solve. She's already locked up and unable to hurt anyone else. And besides she's an old woman Xena, how many more years can she really have left anyway. If you actually wanna punish her don't you think making her spend whatever time she has left locked away would be more of a punishment than just out right killing her.

Gabrielle watched as Xena appeared to contemplate the option. And though Gabrielle didn't actually want to send an old woman to prison for the rest of her days, it was the only thing she could think of that Xena might accept in exchange for keeping Isidora alive. However, Xena was no fool and was well aware of what Gabrielle was trying to do. And so knowing that if she carried out her original plan of punishment for Isidora, it would likely damage and even potentially ruin her and Gabrielle's still growing relationship, Xena made her decision on what the old woman's fate would be.

XENA
Fine. I suppose spending the rest of her days in a cell is also an appropriate punishment for the crime Isidora's committed.

A slight smile appeared on Gabrielle's face for a moment.

GABRIELLE
Thank you Xena. I really appreciate you changing your mind about this.

XENA
The only one who should be thanking anyone here is that old hag for you saving her neck. Probably literally.

Xena continued making her way to the door.

XENA
Now you just relax and give a yell if you need anything. I have a few things to do. I'll be back later.

With that Xena left and made her way down to the dungeon with a couple of guards accompanying her. She walked among the series of small bared enclosures before stopping in front of one particular locked door.

XENA
Enjoying your new accommodations?

Xena watched with a small smirk on her face as a gray-haired head that was hung low raised to meet her gaze.

ISIDORA
(Unphased tone) Come to kill me yourself?

The Conqueror chuckled slightly as she stepped closer to the bars separating the two women.

XENA
Oh please, if I were going kill you personally I would've done that right after you were caught trying to flee like the coward you are.

Isidora leaned back against the wall was she shifted her sitting position on the cells cold, stone floor,

ISIDORA
Well then what brings the almighty Conqueror down to the bouls of this pit you call a dungeon.

XENA
An opportunity. You tell me what I wanna know, and you won't end up with your head resting on the chopping block.

The old woman scoffed.

ISIDORA
Right and You'll just hang me, have me run through with a blade or do some other method of killing me instead

XENA
Not bad ideas but no. I was actually thinking about the possibility of doing something that could actually benefit us both.

ISIDORA
And just what could you have in mind for me that I could possibly find beneficial.

XENA
How about my choosing not to end your worthless life.

ISIDORA
And what you leave me here to be tortured or starved. Not interested.

XENA
What about sending you away from here? I can send you to a prison that I know of that treats their prisoners pretty well.

Xena could see a new interest appear on the elderly woman's face.

ISIDORA
And why would you wanna do that?

XENA
Because you're not my actual enemy here. Draco is. So how 'bout it Isidora? You tell me everything you know about Draco and what he's been up to, and I'll have you on the first cart out of here where you'll not only be safe from me, but from Draco as well. Because let's be honest if I were to just let you walk out of here I have no doubt that Draco will find out that you've completely failed in your mission and come after you for doing so.

Isidora thought for a moment before responding.

ISIDORA
And how do I know that you won't still kill me after I tell you what I know.

XENA
The same way I can be certain that what you tell me isn't complete horse manure. You're just gonna have to take my word for it.

ISIDORA
And to your point, you'll just believe what I tell you?

XENA
I have a pretty good track record of knowing when someone is lying straight to my face.

An evil smile crossed the Conqueror's face as she continued.

XENA
And besides I have ways of getting pretty reliable information out of people when I need it.

Suddenly in a lightening quick motion Xena stuck her head between the bars of Isidora's cell and jabbed two fingers into the side of the woman's neck causing her gasp in both shock and fear as a strange sensation took over her body and she dropped to her knees.

XENA
I've cut off the flow of blood to your brain, and you'll be dead in about a minute unless I undo the hold. So I suggest you tell me what you know and make what you say damn convincing. Otherwise, you're gonna suffer a very unpleasant death.

Isidora struggled as the feeling of her life beginning to drain away from her body brought on a level of fear she never knew before.

ISIDORA
I'm not actually allied with Draco. I only work for him, so I'm not sure if everything I tell you will be completely accurate.

XENA
What do you mean you aren't allied with him? You work for him, it's the same damn thing.

ISIDORA
I'm a spy for hire. I have been for most my life. I was approached by Draco for a job before I even came here, and he hired me to come here spy on you and send reports of anything that I thought he might find useful to know.

XENA
And after you sent word to him about Gabrielle, he decided to make her a target.

Isidora gasped.

ISIDORA
Yes and that's the absolute truth.

XENA
Then why were you acting so cocky and boasting about Draco after you were discovered? Why not just tell me this then?

ISIDORA
I was ordered not to. And besides would you really have believed me if I did?

XENA
No I suppose not.

Isidora gasped as her body went limp and Xena grabbed the back of her dress as she held her up and thrust her fingers into the woman's neck again and Isidora gasped in relief as the hold was released and Xena eased her down to sit the floor as the woman recovered.

XENA
Do you know what else Draco has planned?

ISIDORA
No. I only sent him information about various goings on here and received the order to kill Gabrielle in order to make you suffer and leave you vulnerable for Draco to make his move.

XENA
Where's Draco now?

ISIDORA
He moves around alot, so I have a rotation of set locations that I send the information I give Draco to. But I have a box of our communications hidden beneath the floor under the bed in my room. I'm sure you can find something of use among the letters.

Xena scowled to herself as she remembered that Velasca had also pulled up a bit of her floor to hide some of the evidence of her attack on Melosa and Terreis and made a metal half joke about what she planned to do to the next person who dared defile her home in their efforts to achieve whatever dubious plans they may have.

.XENA
Alright. You tell me where they are and if I find them and see that what you say is true, I'll begin the prepositions to have you safely escorted elsewhere that's relatively decent to serve out whatever sentence the warden of the prison sees fit.

Xena turned away and began to walk off as Isidora called after her from her cell.

ISIDORA
Thank you Xena. And Gabrielle too.

After leaving the dungeon Xena had a couple of guards go up to Isidora's room and search for the letters the old woman said we're hidden under her floor as Xena herself returned to her room to check on Gabrielle and after seeing that she was sleeping peacefully, sat on the edge of the bed just quietly watching the young woman sleep as the thought of almost losing Gabrielle echoed through Xena's mind.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) She almost died because of her connection to me. Because of this damned war over who owns some stupid bits of land. I don't even care about doing any of this anymore.

Xena shook her head as she turned her attention to looking out of the nearby window.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) But if I just give up fighting Draco, what then? He takes over, makes everyone under his rule suffer. Sure I have my flaws but at least I make sure the people in my territory are well cared for. Draco's a slaver. Greedy all he cares about is money and power. Anything that benefits him, regardless of who else what he does effects. He can't be allowed to gain more power.

Xena looked over at Gabrielle.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) And besides if I plan on getting Gabrielle reunited with her family then I have to put an end to Draco and free everyone he has held captive.

Xena watched Gabrielle for a while and found herself unable to shake the memory of the level of panic and fear that she had been feeling when it looked as though Gabrielle was about to be taken from her. The thoughts making her restless, Xena made sure Gabrielle was okay and pulled the covers a bit further up to make sure the younger women was warm before quietly leaving the room again and made her way downstairs.

XENA
Hey, I know it's getting late, but I was wondering if maybe I could talk to you about something.

Xena stood in the doorway of the kitchen as Cyrene finished cleaning up for the day and wiped her hands on her apron as she walked over her daughter.

CYRENE
Is Gabrielle okay?

Xena gave a small smile.

XENA
She's fine, I just checked on her before coming to see you.

CYRENE
That's a relief. So was Isidora really responsible for poisoning Gabrielle?

XENA
She was. It was all part of a plan to get to me.

Xena gave Cyrene a brief review of what Isidora had revealed to her, which left the woman shaking her head in disbelief over all of it.

CYRENE
Poor Gabrielle. She's such a sweet young woman who never asked for any of this.

Xena sighed as she leaned back against the wall across from Cyrene who stood resting back against the counter.

XENA
I know. She only got dragged into this mess because of her connection to me.

CYRENE
But wasn't she an escaped would be slave from that Draco when your paths first crossed?

XENA
Yeah but he would've completely forgotten about her by now if he hadn't learned that she was with me and that I had developed feelings for her.

CYRENE
So what do you do now? You don't think he'll come after Gabrielle again, do you?

XENA
To be honest I'm not sure. But I do know that I'll do whatever it takes to make sure nothing like this ever happens again.

Cyrene watched as Xena's eyes began to tear up slightly before the woman turned away and rubbed her eye to get rid of them.

CYRENE
Xena,

Cyrene reached over and touched her daughter's arm.

CYRENE
You almost lost someone you love, it's okay to be emotional about it.

Xena returned her attention to Cyrene.

XENA
She almost died mother. Because of me. We got lucky this time, but one day her connection to me can get her in serious trouble that I can't protect her from. She can be kidnapped, hurt in any number of ways. Even killed. That's not the life she deserves. None of this has been.

Xena sighed.

XENA
Maybe I should just send her back to Potidea. I think at least her father os still there. Or maybe Amazon's. At least she'd be safe from my enemies there.

CYRENE
Do you really think that Gabrielle would be happy with that?

XENA
Maybe not, but at least she'd be safer than she apparently is with me.

Xena paused for a moment to gather her thoughts before continuing.

XENA
I don't know what I would've done, what I would do if anything happened to her. Since Gabrielle's come into my life so much has changed and for the better. I've... changed.

CYRENE
You have. So can you honestly stand there and tell me that you don't care what Gabrielle wants.

Xena gave Cyrene a disapproving look.

XENA
Of course I care what she wants. If she wanted the very stars in the sky, I wouldn't rest until I found a way to give them to her.

Cyrene smiled.

CYRENE
And I have no doubt you would do it. So why should it be any different when it comes to where Gabrielle wants to b. Because from what I've seen, she seems pretty content here. And I know regardless of what you might say, that's where you want her too.

XENA
Of course I want her here with me. I never said I didn't. I don't wanna imagine my life without her. I just...

Xena paused, not knowing what else to say as Cyrene moved closer.

CYRENE
Then don't. If you really feel that way then I don't fight it Xena. I know that you're worried about what Gabrielle's life could look like for being with you, but don't you think that's something she's already thought about and clearly made her peace with giving where you two are now.

XENA
I guess so. But I just don't want her to keep getting hurt because of me.

CYRENE
Life's full of ups and downs Xena, and Gabrielle would go through both and everything in between even if she were still back in her home village. But here with you, she has someone that she knows she can count on to be there for whatever the life she's chosen might bring her way.

XENA
Sure but I highly doubt she'd go through anything close to what she has.

CYRENE
You do remember that she was taken to be a slave before she met you.

Xena sighed as she relented to her mother's argument.

XENA
Yeah I know.

CYRENE
So if you ask me I think Gabrielle would be in a far worse situation if she weren't here with you. And the same goes for if she had stayed with the Amazon's. In fact I dare to say that she would have ended up with a worse fate given that you had only arrived just in time to prevent Gabrielle from being killed by those rebel Amazons.

Xena made a slightly annoyed grumble.

XENA
Alright you made your point. Maybe Gabrielle wouldn't be completely better off without me.

Cyrene smiled.

CYRENE
You say that as though you wouldn't be miserable without having her around.

XENA
Okay fine.

Xena's tone softened as she continued.

XENA
But what am I supposed to do? If I can't be sure that she's safe with or without me, then what?

CYRENE
The same way everything else in life works, Xena. You live your life with the choices you make and deal with whatever comes from that as a result.

Cyrene looked her daughter in the eyes as she continued.

CYRENE
So the question is could you actually live with letting Gabrielle go? Or do you think that what the two of you share is worth the risk of all the potential pain that comes with it?

Xena didn't need any time to contemplate her reply to the older woman's question as in her heart she had already known the answer for quite some time and let a smile cross her lips as an idea came to mind.

XENA
Gabrielle's worth all of that and more.

Xena stood up straight from where she had been leaning against the counter behind her, as Cyrene saw a small glimmer in her daughter's eyes as she turned to leave.

XENA
Thank you mother. You've given me lot to think about. I've taken up enough of your time so I'll be going. I wanna go check on Gabrielle again before I get to doing the work that's pulled up on my desk.

Cyrene smiled.

CYRENE
Nonsense. I always have time for you, Xena. That's what mothers are for.

Xena just replied with a silent smile as she turned and left the kitchen and returned to her room to check on Gabrielle who was still asleep before going into her study. And as Xena sat at her desk going through some of the papers in front of her, her mind continued to return to an idea that to the logical part of her brain consider to be foolish and a waste of time, the other part of her mind as well as Xena's heart wouldn't allow her to brush the thoughts aside. So as the clarity Xena got from her conversation with Cyrene sank in, what now weighed on Xena's heart wasn't where Gabrielle should be for her own safety, but how Gabrielle would feel about what her life could look like if she gave a specific answer to a question that Xena was uncertain if she should even ask.

It was an early afternoon at the keep as Xena sat behind her desk trying to get a bit of work done but found herself unable to focus as her mind refused to focus on the task in front of her.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) What's wrong with you? You're a grown woman, quit acting like you're some kind of young teen girl who's nervous about talking to her crush.

With far more effort than what it should have taken, Xena wrote down a couple more words on the scroll in front of her and let out a sigh as she gave up on her attempts at getting any work done and casually tossed the quill on the desk in front of her as she reclined back in her seat.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Is this what the almighty, fearsome Conqueror has been reduced to? A lovesick fool who can barely get through a task without having her mind wander off to something involving her.

Xena smiled slightly as she chuckled a little at herself.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Though to be honest at this point I don't think I'd have it any other way.

Xena looked at her desk and signed as the conversation she had with Cyrene a few days ago.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Gabrielle's where she wants to be. She chose to be here. Be with me. Is this really something I should do?

Xena sat there with her thoughts as her mind went back to how she felt before telling Gabrielle how she felt about her. The conflicting inner turmoil she went through as the fear of Gabrielle's rejection plagued her. Then a smile crossed the Conqueror's face as the thought of what eventually happened as a result of her revealing her love for Gabrielle. It wasn't immediate, but after some time, Gabrielle had actually fallen for her too. A feeling that Xena had no doubt was genuine.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) And look where we are now. Who would have thought that such an amazingly kind, caring, truly good-hearted person like Gabrielle could ever feel anything even close to love for someone like me.

Xena chuckled again.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I suppose the truth really can be stranger than fiction.

Letting out another sigh and a smirk, Xena stood from her chair and began making her way across her study to the door.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Well if that saying really is true, then I guess I'll have to take my chances and see where this all ends up.

It had been a few days since Gabrielle fully recovered from ingesting the poison that Isidora had put into the cider she drank that nearly killed her. But fortunately due to Xena's quick reaction during the situation, Gabrielle was feeling completely fine and hadn't suffered any additional adverse effects from the attempt on her life. And with Isidora dealt with and on her way to serve out the rest of her life, everything in Gabrielle's life seemed to retain to the new normal that she had come to know.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) It sure is a peaceful day around here.

Gabrielle walked idly through the halls as she made her way back to the archives after eating a small lunch in the dinning room. She was just turning the last corner to get to the hallway where the entrance to the archives were when she felt herself being grabbed from behind and pulled back as she let out a small, surprised yell as she fell back against something.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly Irritated tone) I really wish you would stop sneaking up on me like that.

A small chuckle hit Gabrielle's ears as she tilted her head back slightly to look up into the blue eyes gazing back at her.

XENA
Sorry.

The Conqueror smiled.

XENA
(Teasing tone) I guess I get a kick out of that little yell you make when I do it.

Gabrielle scowled.

GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Well I'm glad you find it funny. Because I sure don't.

XENA
Well if that's how you feel about it, I'm sorry.

Xena placed a small kiss on Gabrielle's lips.

XENA
I won't do it anymore.

GABRIELLE
Good.

A smile worked it's way on to Gabrielle's face as Xena playfully poked at her side, making the young woman laugh as she wigged to get out of Xena's grasp.

GABRIELLE
(Laughing) Ah, Xena. You know I'm ticklish there.

XENA
Exactly.

Xena continued poking Gabrielle's side as the young woman laughed.

GABRIELLE
(Laughing) Quit it.

Xena smiled.

XENA
(Teasing tone) Are you still mad at me.

GABRIELLE
(Laughing) No, I'm not mad. I'm not mad.

XENA
(Teasing tone) Are you sure? Cause the last thing I would ever want is for you to be upset.

GABRIELLE
(Laughing) I promise I'm not upset. I swear. Now if you don't stop tickling me, I will be.

XENA
(Teasing tone) Well in that case I had better stop then.

Xena finally relented in her playful assault, and put her arms around the still giggling Gabrielle, who after a couple of moments calmed down completely as she looked up at the taller woman.

GABRIELLE
You're clearly in a good mood today.

XENA
(Joking tone) As opposed to my being a miserable bitch most other days?

GABRIELLE
No Xena, I didn't mean...

XENA
It's alright Gabrielle. I was just kidding.

Xena placed a small kiss on Gabrielle's lips.

XENA
(Half Joking) It seems my bitchiest days may very well be behind me.

Xena let the younger woman go and turn around to face her as she continued speaking.

XENA
And I have you to thank for that.

GABRIELLE
Me? But I didn't do anything.

XENA
See that's where you're wrong.

Xena's expression went serious.

XENA
Gabrielle, it's because of you, the kindness you've shown not just me but to everyone around you, that made me even begin to think about the person I've been. The things I've done.... the people I've hurt.

A look of sadness shown in the Conqueror's eyes as Gabrielle reached up and gently laid her hand on the other woman's cheek.

GABRIELLE
Xena...

Xena brought her hand up to cover Gabrielle's.

GABRIELLE
I don't believe that there's anyone in this whole world who could make you do anything you didn't already wanna do. Yes you've changed since I first met you, but you did it because you wanted to. Not because of anything I did.

Xena smiled.

XENA
I guess that's just something we're gonna have to agree to disagree on.

The Conqueror took Gabrielle's hand from her cheek and brought it to her lips as she placed a gentle kiss on the palm before lowering their hands as she looked deeply into Gabrielle's eyes.

XENA
Gabrielle...

Xena paused for a moment as she pushed down the nerves that had suddenly hit her before continuing.

XENA
Listen there was something that I wanted to talk to you about.

Seeing an uncomfortable look appear on Xena's face, Gabrielle felt herself become concerned that something was wrong.

GABRIELLE
Xena, is something wrong?

Realizing that she was inadvertently causing Gabrielle to worry, Xena smiled as she cupped Gabrielle's cheek with her free hand that wasn't holding still Gabrielle's hand.

XENA
No Gabrielle. Not at all. I just...

Xena paused briefly as she gathered her nervous thoughts, before continuing.

XENA
There's something I wanted to ask you.

Again, Xena paused as she heard voices from people down the hall and looked around for a moment as she realized that perhaps standing in the middle of a hallway wasn't the way she wanted to say what she had to say.

XENA
Actually if it's okay with you, I was thinking we could continue this somewhere a little more private.

Xena took her hand from Gabrielle's cheek but continued to keep her gentle grip on the young woman's hand.

XENA
Would you care to accompany me to my quarters?

Now highly curious as to what Xena could have possibly wanted to ask her that could have the typically bold woman acting almost timid, Gabrielle agreed to join the Conqueror.

GABRIELLE
Um, sure I guess.

With a reassuring smile, Xena placed Gabrielle's arm around hers and began walking as she brought them both up her bedroom and out to the balcony that overlooked a good portion of the keep's grounds.

GABRIELLE
At least it's not that cold out today.

XENA
Yeah.

Xena and Gabrielle stood side by side for a bit as they looked out at the scenery in silence for several moments until Gabrielle spoke up.

GABRIELLE
You know I really like the view from up here.

Xena smiled.

XENA
Yeah, I've always enjoyed standing out here too. Though this particular sport has kind of become something more special to me recently.

Gabrielle looked over at the Conqueror.

GABRIELLE
Why's that?

Xena turned to face the other woman.

XENA
Because this is where you first said you loved me.

GABRIELLE
You remember that?

XENA
Of course I do. It's a night that I'll carry with me for as long as I live.

Gabrielle felt Xena gently take her hand in hers again and turned toward her.

GABRIELLE
You know I think that night will be with me forever too.

The young woman gazed into Xena's eyes.

GABRIELLE
Though to be honest I knew I felt something for you for a bit before then, but I was too afraid to admit it.

XENA
Because of who I am?

Gabrielle lowered her eyes as she knew her honest answer would likely hurt Xena's feelings.

GABRIELLE
Yeah.

Gabrielle felt a gentle touch on her chin that brought her attention back to Xena.

XENA
You have nothing to feel ashamed, or sorry for Gabrielle. I wasn't a good person when we met. Any sane person would have given paused to being involved with someone like me. And to be completely honest, I still don't know what you see in me that caused you to give me access to your heart.

GABRIELLE
Because you're not the same person that I first met when I stumbled into your camp all those months ago. You're nothing like that woman anymore. You're a completely different person now.

XENA
And though I know you disagree, regardless of what you might think, you Gabrielle, are the reason for that.

Xena lightly squeezed the young woman's hand as she continued.

XENA
You showed me a level of kindness and compassion that I never deserved. You made me see that there was still light in this dark world. And you, are my light. I love you, Gabrielle, and I don't know what I would do if I didn't have you in my life.

GABRIELLE
...Xena.

Already not knowing what to say, Gabrielle found herself suddenly loosing all train of thought as she watched Xena bend down to one knee before her and look up at her.

XENA
I love you Gabrielle. More than I ever imagined I could love anyone. And when I almost lost you, I knew that I didn't wanna waste another day without having you by my side. And though I know you could do far better than to be with someone like me, I swear on my very life that I will spend the rest of my days doing everything I can to prove myself and to be someone worthy of giving your heart to. I can't promise you that I'll be perfect, but I promise you that I will do everything I can to be someone that you can be proud to have stand beside you in life. So now I ask, Gabrielle, will you let me stay by your side for the rest of the time we share in this world together? Will you marry me?

Gabrielle stood there in a stunned silence as it took a moment for the question she had just been asked to sink in, unable to believe that Xena would actually want to marry her. But having heard her heartfelt speech and the sincere look of love in the ocean of blue looking up at her, Gabrielle knew without a doubt that Xena's words were true. And as such didn't need any longer to think about what her answer to Xena's question would be.

GABRIELLE

 Of course Xena. Yes, of course I'll marry you.

Hearing Gabrielle's response brought the biggest smile imaginable to Xena's face as she stood up and pulled the younger woman into a tight embrace.

XENA
I can't tell you how happy you've just made me Gabrielle.

Xena pulled back slightly as she kept her arms around Gabrielle.

XENA
I love you so much more than I could ever tell you.

GABRIELLE
I love you too Xena.

Both women feeling overjoyed at their future together, their lips met in a gentle, yet passionate kiss that was followed by several more before with a great deal of difficulty, Xena pulled herself away from Gabrielle and smiled.

XENA
Well I guess we have a wedding to start planning now don't we.

GABRIELLE
When should it be?

Xena thought for a moment.

XENA
I was thinking maybe late spring. Hopefully that should give enough time to prepare the wedding you deserve.

GABRIELLE
Xena, you know you don't have to do something so big just for me. It could just be the two of us making our vows to one another, and I would be happy.

Xena smiled.

XENA
I know. But you deserve so much more. And I have the means, so I wanna give you the wedding of your dreams, Gabrielle. And after everything you've done for me, it's the very least I could do.

Xena took Gabrielle's hand again.

XENA
So whataya say Gabrielle. Let me give you the wedding of your dreams. I know that it'll only be for one day, but let me make it special and one that no one in attendance will ever forget.

Hearing the excitement in the Conqueror's voice, Gabrielle's smile grew larger as she realized that this was as much about Xena being happy as it was her and decided that if Xena wanting to give her a big, extravagant wedding made the woman happy, then why not let her do it. Besides, it would be just as much Xena's wedding than hers anyway. And so Gabrielle relented in her opposition to a large ceremony.

GABRIELLE
Okay. If you really want us to have a big celebration, then I'm okay with that.

Xena's smile grew.

XENA
Wonderful. We can start the planning whenever you're ready.

Xena held out her arm for Gabrielle to take.

XENA
Come on let's go back inside. It's getting colder out here.

Gabrielle happily put her arm around Xena's as the pair walked together back inside and spent a quiet evening together as Xena happily listened to Gabrielle as she excitedly ran off multiple ideas for their future wedding.

LEONIDAS
My lord.

Xena looked up from her papers as she heard Leonidas' voice as the lieutenant entered her study. It had been a few days since Gabrielle's accepting of her marriage proposal and the whole keep had been a buzz with the exciting news after Gabrielle had told Elle and word quickly spread like a wildfire throughout the large building.

XENA
If this is more people sending their congratulations come back later. I have work that I need to get done.

Xena's eyes returned to the paper in front of her as Leonidas entered the room and walked up to her desk.

LEONIDAS
I wish that the joyful occasion was the reason for what brought me here today, but unfortunately that's not the case

Hearing the seriousness in the man's voice, Xena's attention returned to her lieutenant as she saw a grim expression on his face which caused a sudden fear in Xena's heart as she quickly stood up from her chair.

XENA
What is it? Is Gabrielle alright? Something else hasn't happened to her, has it?

LEONIDAS
No, no to my knowledge the little one is just fine.

Hearing that Gabrielle was okay but still seeing the troubled look Leonidas was giving her, Xena's thoughts turned to Cyrene.

XENA
Mother?

LEONIDAS
She's in the kitchen as usual. I just saw her going in there as I was coming to see you.

Xena breathed a sigh of relief as she took a moment to compose herself and gave an unhappy look to Leonidas as she sat back down.

XENA
(Slightly Irritated tone) What's the big idea coming in here acting as though the world is crashing down around us. You can't do that to me. Good god's Leonidas are you trying to send me to an early grave from worry.

LEONIDAS
Apologies my lord. I'll be more mindful of my temperament when speaking with you in the future.

XENA
Good. Now, what's the actual problem? Is there some kind of threat headed our way?

LEONIDAS
No. But this does involve the mess that you've been tangled in involving Draco.

Hearing the warlord's name finally resurface after months of him going silent piqued the Conqueror's interest in the conversation as her whole demeanor changed to reveal a long simmering anger, and she leaned her elbows on her desk, resting her chin in her hands and spoke.

XENA
So that son of a bitch has finally decided to show his face again.

LEONIDAS
Yes. It seems that he's been held up in a town far north for some time now. Perhaps even making the area his base for at least these winter months.

XENA
Interesting.

A feral smile crossed Xena's face.

XENA
It seems that I might soon have my revenge on that bastard at last. Where was his army last spotted?

Leonidas told her where the warlord had last been spotted. as Xena's smile was replaced with a scowl as she lowered her hands to her desk.

XENA
That's not all that far from here. Barely a couple days march. So how in the name of Hades did he get that far into my territory without me being notified sooner?

LEONIDAS
I'm afraid that's still unknown my lord but...

MESSAGER
My lord.

Leonidas paused in his update involving Draco as both his and Xena's attention turned toward the doorway to see a young man standing at attention in the doorway to Xena's study.

MESSAGER
A message just arrived for you from one of the scouts.

XENA
Bring it here.

Figuring that it was another update on Draco, Xena held out her hand for the messager to give her the letter she could see him holding. Which he did as he walked over to her and passed the scroll over to her.

XENA
Is this all there is?

MESSAGER
Yes my lord.

XENA
Very good. You may go now.

The man brought his fist to his chest in salute as he responded with a "Yes my lord", turned around and left as Xena opened the scroll and began reading it.

XENA
(Angry tone) Damn it.

Leonidas watched as a couple moments later, Xena slammed the paper down on her desk.

XENA
(Angry tone) That son of a bitch.

LEONIDAS
What is it?

XENA
I just got some news about something I've been wanting for some time to hear back about.

LEONIDAS
I take it that it's not something you were hoping to hear?

Xena let out a defeated sigh as she rubbed her face ìn frustration.

XENA
To put it lightly, no.

LEONIDAS
What is it?

XENA
It's Gabrielle. You remember a while back I had our scouts go out searching for information about the location of Gabrielle's family?

LEONIDAS
I remember.

XENA
Well while there's still no word on Gabrielle's mother, it seems that they found where her sister has been.

Xena's lieutenant gave her a puzzled look.

LEONIDAS
Isn't that good news my lord? We know where one the little one's lost family is. Why are you acting so grim?

XENA
It's great that we found her, obviously. But it's where she is that's the problem.

LEONIDAS
Why? Where is she?

XENA
Draco has her.

Xena sighed sadly.

XENA
And from what's in this letter it's apparent that he's kept her this whole time as his personal body slave.

Leonidas shook his head in disbelief and disgust.

LEONIDAS
That's terrible.  The depravity some people are willing to stoop to.

A moment of silence passed between them as the weight of the situation sank in before the Conqueror's lieutenant spoke again.

LEONIDAS
What are you gonna do?

XENA
I'm not sure yet. But we need to work fast and come up with a plan to stop Draco and get the girl away from that son of a bitch.

Xena shook her head as Leonidas could see a sadness appear behind the woman's eyes as she sat back heavily in her chair.

XENA
(Sad tone) And now I have to figure out how I'm gonna break this news about the girl's fate to Gabrielle.

GABRIELLE
It's very nice of you to help with this. You know you really don't have to do this Cyrene.

The older woman chuckled as she sat a cup of warm tea in front of Gabrielle and moved to sit down across the counter from the young woman with her own cup.

CYRENE
Don't be silly Gabrielle of course I'm gonna help with this.

Cyrene smiled.

CYRENE
It's not every day that my only daughter gets married after all. And to one of the most wonderfully sweet people a mother could ever hope for one of her children to find.

Gabrielle smiled as she tried to wave off the compliment and minor embarrassment that came with it.

GABRIELLE
You're far too kind, Cyrene.

CYRENE
Nonsense. It's only because of you that I have a relationship with my daughter again. The change I've seen in her, it's like night and day.

Cyrene reached across the counter and put her hand over Gabrielle's.

CYRENE
Thank you Gabrielle. I will forever be grateful for the way you've not only affected Xena's life, but for all the pain you prevented from taking place at her hands. You have no idea the impact you've made on so many lives. Including Xena's and mine.

Gabrielle sat there for a moment unsure of how to respond to such a statement that carried so much weight to it.

GABRIELLE
I, don't know what to say. Both you and Xena seem to think that I have some kind of ability to make people change who they are, but I haven't actually done anything.

CYRENE
But you have.

Gabrielle gave Cyrene a questioning expression.

GABRIELLE
Again Xena said the same thing, but I don't see how I could've possibly done anything that would have made Xena change the very person she was. Honestly I can't really see anyone being able to make Xena do anything.

CYRENE
Maybe not but it's as much what you've done Gabrielle, but who you are that seems to have an effect on everyone around you. The biggest being Xena herself. And for that I could never thank you enough.

Gabrielle smiled slightly in response before a question came to her mind that she hadn't thought to ask before, and her expression went serious.

GABRIELLE
Cyrene, can I ask you something?

CYRENE
Of course. Is something wrong?

GABRIELLE
Well it's just I...

Gabrielle paused unsure if she should ask about something so personal that likely had a lot of painful memories attached but felt a gentle touch on her hand that sat on the kitchen counter that got her attention to see Cyrene wearing a slightly worried look on her face.

CYRENE
Gabrielle, what ever it is I hope you know that you can always talk to me about anything. I know we may not be blood, but you're marrying my daughter makes you family. So while I would never try taking the place of your actual mother, I would hope that you can feel comfortable enough to come to me with anything that's on your mind, whatever it is.

Knowing that the woman meant every word of what she said, Gabrielle took a small breath before she asked Cyrene what was going through her mind.

GABRIELLE
Well you see for as much as I know about Xena and have learned that a good deal of what I had heard about her isn't true. There's still something I don't know, and that's how she even became the person she was when I first met her. I mean no one just decides to turn to the kind of life she's lead on a whim, do they?

CYRENE
No I suppose they don't.

Cyrene let out a small sigh.

CYRENE
I would've thought you would've had this conversation with Xena a while ago. But then again, it isn't exactly something that she likes to talk about. And given that you're set to be her wife, it only seems right that you know why she ended up the way she was. Or at least how it all started.

Cyrene took a sip of her tea as she gathered her thoughts before placing the cup back down in front of her and continued.

CYRENE
You see Gabrielle I don't know if you're aware, but Xena isn't my only child.

GABRIELLE
Wait, Xena's not an only child? She never mentioned that. Then again, she doesn't really talk much about her life before I came along.

CYRENE
I assume now it's because she's ashamed of the things she's done, and she's afraid that telling you will drive you away.

GABRIELLE
But I already know alot of it from what I've heard either before coming here, what I've found in the archives, as well as what I've seen first hand. And even knowing all that, I still love her because I see that she's not that person anymore. So I don't get why she would think that talking to me about this kind of thing would change that.

CYRENE
Well I can't be certain, but maybe it's just not easy for her to talk about because it means that she has to face what she's done. But maybe if you ask, she'll eventually open up about some of it. But I guess that this particular topic might be really difficult for Xena to talk about, and giving my involvement in the situation I think she would be okay with my telling you about Lyceus.

GABRIELLE
Who's Lyceus?

CYRENE
Lyceus is... or was my son and Xena's brother. Along with my other son, Torris. And well you see growing up with just brothers, Xena was never really interested in the typical things that most young girls like her were into. She was far more interested in rough housing, playing with wooden swords and all the things that her brother's and the other village boys were doing.

Gabrielle chuckled at the thought of Xena as a little girl running around a village and all the things she must've gotten into.

GABRIELLE
Somehow that doesn't surprise me one bit.

CYRENE
Looking at who she grew up to be, I guess it wouldn't. But as I was saying out of all three of my children Xena and Lyceus were the closest. Probably because the two had very similar spirits that seemed to be drawn to adventure, whatever it looked like. Whereas Torris didn't have quite the same disposition for such things. It was a simple life but a good one, and that was all I had ever wanted for my children.

Cyrene sighed sadly.

CYRENE
But as it would turn out, it would seem that the fates had a far different and much cruelest plan.

GABRIELLE
Why, what happened?

CYRENE
Well when Xena was a little younger than you our village, Amphipolis was attacked by an army. The people of the village wanted to surrender in the hopes that we would be spared from being killed, but Xena insisted that they wouldn't take mercy on us and that the village had to take a stand and fight back to defend ourselves. And so she rallied a number of the men in the village to take up weapons and fight to defend the village. And among those people were Lyceus and Torris.

Cyrene shook her head sadly as she continued.

CYRENE
The battle was long and while the army was driven off, so many of our people had fallen during the fighting. And tragically, one of the people who lost their lives that day was Lyceus.

Gabrielle could see the pain in Cyrene's expression as the older woman brushed away a single tear that had worked its way to the corner of her eye.

GABRIELLE
I'm so sorry Cyrene. I can't imagine what that must've been like to lose one of your children in such a terrible way.

CYRENE
It was the worst day of my life. And in my grief and pain over losing my son and with the ones who attacked us gone, needing someone to blame for his death. It wasn't right, but I lashed out and placed all the blame for everything on Xena. Because she was the one who told us to fight. So in my grief stricken mind she was just as responsible for Lyceus being killed then if she had wielded the blade that had killed him herself.

Cyrene shook her head as Gabrielle sat there quietly, not knowing what to say. She never imagined that Xena had gone through something so tragic as she listened to Cyrene continue.

CYRENE
I was so upset about Lyceus and angry at Xena that I just lost my senses. I slapped her in the face multiple times as hard as I could as I screamed and cried. I told her that it was her fault that Lyceus was dead. Her fault that so many others had died. And that was a sentiment that the rest of the surviving villagers shared.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly angry tone) So everyone blamed Xena for what happened? But that's not fair, from what you just said she was only trying to protect the village,

CYRENE
(Sad tone) I know. And I wish more than anything that I could go back and change how things played out. Because while that was the day that we lost Lyceus, it was also the day that the Xena I had raised also died. She left the village and never returned. And after a while I started hearing rumors of the things she was doing. Going around building an army, raiding village's. Raiding, pillaging, killing. The things I heard her doing all in the name of what she had claimed to be for the benefit of Amphipolis and of Greece as a whole, But I'm sure Xena will even agree now that wasn't really the case. Although it might have started out that way, her reasoning for what she was doing quickly turned selfish. I ended up ashamed that I had even given birth to someone who could cause so much pain and destruction. And so I disowned her and decided that I only had one child remaining in this world.

GABRIELLE
I had no idea.

Gabrielle sat there for a couple of moments as she let all the new knowledge of some of Xena's history sink in, before speaking again.

GABRIELLE
I'm sure it wasn't easy after all that, but I'm glad that you and Xena have been able to mend your relationship.

A soft smile found its way to the older woman's face.

CYRENE
Me too.

Cyrene picked up her cup of tea and took a couple sips before putting it back down.

CYRENE
Now why don't we get back to a happier subject, and you can tell me what sort of plans you have for your and Xena's wedding. Because if I recall correctly when Xena asked me to help out with planning things when I asked her about what she wanted she just said that she'd be happy with whatever made you happy, telling me quote "Whatever Gabrielle wants, Gabrielle gets."

Cyrene chuckled.

CYRENE
I never thought I'd see the day, where anyone would have Xena wrapped around their finger like she is with you. But aside from everything else, you make her happy and as her mother that's one more thing that I have to thank you for, Gabrielle. So why don't we get to work on getting this wedding planning underway.

And so Gabrielle and Cyrene sat there for a while talking casually as Gabrielle gave the ideas she came up with for some of what she wanted and what Xena would like for the wedding. The conversation was full of joy and laughter as they went over multiple aspects of the wedding while at Gabrielle's request, Cyrene shared some of the happier memories of what Xena was like as a little girl that had the young woman fascinated by who xena was as a child before she embarked on her dark path to becoming the fearsome Conqueror of legend.

GABRIELLE
(Laughing) I still can't believe even as a child Xena thought having a pet chimera was a good idea. What was she planning on doing treating it like a puppy?

Cyrene chuckled.

CYRENE
She really was always a bold one. And the name she already had picked out for it too wasn't much better of an idea either. I think it was Cupid or something like that.

Hearing that the child version of Xena wanted to name a chimera Cupid made Gabrielle laugh even harder as she made a metal note to bring that up to with Xena later just to see her reaction, but had her plan abruptly put to a stop when she suddenly heard a voice behind her.

XENA
(Joking tone) Thank you mother, I'm glad you seem to be enjoying ruining what little reputation as a fearsome leader that I still have left around here.

Gabrielle turned slightly on the stool side was sitting on to see Xena standing beside her with her arms crossed and a stern look on her face that after a moment changed to a small smirk.

XENA
And I was gonna name it Charon, not Cupid.

Cyrene chuckled.

CYRENE
Oh that's right. I guess Charon the chimera does have a better ring to it after all.

Xena gave her mother a disapproving stare before hearing Gabrielle's laughter that quickly brought her back to why she had come there in the first place and Cyrene noticed the sudden shift in Xena's demeanor as she turned her attention to the young woman.

XENA
Gabrielle there's something important I need to talk to you about.

Seeing what looked to be a sad seriousness on Xena's face, Gabrielle could tell that something was clearly on Xena's mind.

GABRIELLE
What is it?

Xena looked at her mother who could tell from the look on her face that something was wrong and though it best to excuse herself to give the other two women some privacy to discuss whatever it was that Xena had to speak to Gabrielle about.

CYRENE
You know Gabrielle I think we did plenty wedding planning for today, So I think I'm gonna head off for a little walk for a bit before I get started on preparing dinner.

Cyrene untied the apron she had around her waist and sat it on the counter.

CYRENE
So I'll just leave the two of you to talk and come back later.

With a small smile Cyrene turned to walk away and placed a hand on Xena's shoulder as she walked by to try giving her daughter some encouragement and support for whatever she had to tell Gabrielle. Once Cyrene left the kitchen, and it was just Xena and herself, Gabrielle stood up and moved to stand in front of the Conqueror.

GABRIELLE
Xena is something wrong?

XENA
Actually Gabrielle, I think you might wanna stay sitting down for this.

Placing a hand on Gabrielle's back, Xena guided the young woman back to the stool she had been sitting on just a moment prior and waited a moment as Gabrielle sat back down.

GABRIELLE
What's going on?

Taking a breath to figure out how to tell Gabrielle what she found out about her sister, Xena did her best to mentally prepare herself for however Gabrielle might react to what she was about to say as she pulled up another stool and sat directly across from Gabrielle, close enough so she could easily just reach the blonde.

XENA
Gabrielle I don't know how to say this, but I just got word from the scouts that I sent out a while back looking for your family, and from the way you described her after I said I'd look for her, I'm almost positive that after a lot of searching, we finally know where your sister is.

Hearing the words that had Xena had just spoken, Gabrielle could hardly believe her ears as she found herself feeling estaic that Xena had actually managed to locate her sister.

GABRIELLE
(Joyful tone) You found Lila?! Really?

Before Xena had the chance to continue, Gabrielle sprung forward from her seat and wrapped her arms around her neck as she hugged her.

GABRIELLE
I don't know how to even begin to thank you for this Xena. I can't tell you what this means to me.

With a sad expression Gabrielle couldn't see, Xena put her arms around the young woman and held her for a moment knowing that what she was about to say nest would almost certainly break Gabrielle's heart.

XENA
Gabrielle listen, there's more that I need to tell you about what we found when your sister was located.

Hearing the soft, sadness in Xena's voice, Gabrielle pulled back and looked up at the taller woman.

GABRIELLE
What about it?

XENA
I don't know how to tell this, but it turns out that the man who runs the group of slavers that attacked your village and kidnapped your sister, mother and the others from your village, Draco. He's had your sister for all this time and well...

Xena paused, not knowing how to tell Gabrielle the next part of what was discovered about what her sister's life had been like since the two were separated all those months ago. But felt that she should know giving the fact that Lila was her family and to prepare Gabrielle as best she could for what her sister might be like when they were hopefully reunited. Although knowing what she had to tell Gabrielle didn't make it any easier to actually do, as Xena searched for the gentlest way to tell Gabrielle what her sister had been forced to endure.

XENA
Gabrielle, do you know what a body slave is?

GABRIELLE
A body slave? No, I never heard of that. Why, is that supposed to be different from any other slave?

Xena let out a sad sigh as she had never imagined that she would ever have to explain such a thing to Gabrielle and again tried to come up with the most sensitive way to explain the horrific life that the young woman's sister had been forced into.

XENA
Well, I suppose when you think about it, a body slave technically isn't really much different from a standard slave in the fact that they both have to do whatever the person who owns them says. But where a standard slave is typically used for manual labor or tending to household chores such as cooking and cleaning. A body slave is made to tend to the... physical desires of the people they serve.

GABRIELLE
The physical desires of the people they serve...

Xena watched as Gabrielle fell silent for a long moment as the young woman looked down seemingly in thought, leaving Xena unsure if she had explained what she meant too vaguely for Gabrielle to understand what she meant. But just as the Conqueror was about to ask Gabrielle if she understood, she heard the young woman begin to softly sob and Xena swiftly stood and wrapped the young blonde in her arms who almost immediately after being wrapped in Xena's embrace, completely broke down and wept for her sister Lila as Gabrielle learned what she had been suffering through. All the while Xena's heart broke for the young woman in her arms as she wished more than anything that she could take her pain away. But knowing that she couldn't , instead did the next best thing that she could think to do as she stood there in the kitchen, holding the young woman who had inadvertently changed everything in her life tight.

XENA
I'll get her away from him. I promise Gabrielle, whatever it takes I'll get your sister back from Draco.
(Quiet angry tone) I don't care if it's the last thing I do, that son of a bitch is gonna pay for everything he's done. I'm gonna make sure that he'll never be able to hurt anyone else like you or your sister ever again.

Light flickered across the room from the lit candles as Xena stood leaning over her desk. Her eyes studying the large map spread out before her when a knock on the door broke her intense concentration.

XENA
Enter.

The Conqueror's eyes glanced up as the door opened and Leonidas entered the room.

LEONIDAS
You're up late my lord.

Xena looked back down at the map as her lieutenant shut the door behind him and walked up to her desk.

XENA
I could say the same for you.

LEONIDAS
Fair enough.

XENA
So what brings you up here at this hour anyway. I would think that wife of yours would be missing you. .

LEONIDAS
I told Sarah I would be joining her shortly after I told her I wanted to come check on how the little one is doing. You have told her about her sister, haven't you?

Xena let out a small saddened sigh as she sat in the chair behind her.

XENA
Yeah I told her.

LEONIDAS
How is she?

XENA
She took the news about as well as you could imagine someone learning that someone they love has been made to suffer so horribly.

Xena shook her head disapprovingly as she clenched her fists that rested on the arms of her chair.

XENA
I could've gone the rest of my life without seeing the devastated look I saw in Gabrielle's eyes when I had to tell her about her sister. And what I wouldn't do to ensure that I never do again.

A moment of silence fell over the room as even in the dim light, Leonidas could see a tired and saddened look that was painted over Xena's face.

LEONIDAS
I have no doubt that you'll get the little one's family back safely and at long last bring an end to this conflict between Draco and yourself for good. But you mustn't push yourself to hard my lord. It's been a long day, and you look exhausted, I don't think there's much more you can do about Draco tonight. Perhaps you should call it a night.

Xena smirked.

XENA
(Joking tone) What are you, my mother?

LEONIDAS
(Joking tone) No, but I could go get her and have her tell you the same thing herself if you'd like.

XENA
(Joking tone) You know this smart ass side of yours that's come out around me over the past months isn't something that until not long ago I would've tolerated at all.

The Conqueror's lieutenant chuckled.

LEONIDAS
Well I suppose I should count myself lucky that's no longer an issue then shouldn't I?

Xena smirked as she shook her head and stood as she gathered the map she had been looking at and rolled it up as she walked out from behind her desk.

XENA
Well unfortunately for you no one said that still couldn't be the case. So here you go smart ass.

With a small chuckle, Xena walked past her lutenant as she playfully shoved the map she had against his chest forcing him to take the paper as she let go of it and kept walking toward her bedroom.

XENA
Have fun spending the night studying that map and the battle plans written I have on it because I want them fully memorized by tomorrow. And if they aren't, you'll be joining the stable hands with the smallest shovel I can find.

LEONIDAS
Wait a minute, you aren't serious?

Leonidas turned around to see Xena continuing to her room without giving him a reply.

LEONIDAS
My lord?

Xena looked over her shoulder wearing a smirk on her face that told the man that she was indeed serious as she casually waved for him to leave.

XENA
Good night.

So as he watched Xena shut the door to her bedroom behind her, Leonidas sighed in defeat as he turned around and left the Conqueror's quarters with the papers forced upon him.

LEONIDAS
(Thinking to himself) Apparently her sense of humor still needs work.
(Sighing) So much for getting a good night's sleep.

Xena quietly shut the door to her bedroom and walked over to a chair and placed the candle on a nearby table as she sat down and took off her boots before standing up and looking over at Gabrielle who laid tucked in her bed before stepping behind her primacy screen and getting charged into her night clothes and walking over with a blanket to the pile of pillows that sat on the floor at the foot of her bed and settled herself down in the pile as she covered up and prepared to go to sleep.

GABRIELLE
Xena?

Thinking Gabrielle had been asleep, Xena was a bit surprised when she heard the young woman's voice in the darkness as she shifted to get more comfortable as she replied.

XENA
Yeah?

GABRIELLE
Do you think my mother and sister will ever be able to forgive me for leaving them with those slavers while I escaped?

XENA
What?!

Hearing what she thought was one of the most ridiculous questions she had ever heard, Xena sat up and turned to see the shadow of Gabrielle's form through the darkness of the room, still laying in the bed.

XENA
Gabrielle, how could you possibly think that they could hold any of whatever's happened to them against you? Nothing that your sister has gone through is your fault. You running away that day was to get help. I thought we've been over this already.

GABRIELLE
But if I had stayed then maybe I could've protected Lila, and then she wouldn't have been...

Gabrielle's words cut out as Xena heard the young woman begin to softly cry, bringing the Conqueror to her feet as she moved to the nightstand beside the bed and lit a candle so she could see before getting into the bed beside Gabrielle as she gently tugged the younger woman toward her.

XENA
Gabrielle, come here.

With her arms around Gabrielle, Xena let the young woman's head rest on her shoulder as she leaned back against the pillow and gently tried to soothe her.

GABRIELLE
(Crying) I just left her Xena. And because I couldn't save her she ended up being forced into being used as nothing more than an object. If I hadn't run that day then maybe I could've...

XENA
Done what? Gotten beaten even worse than you had?

Xena pulled Gabrielle away from her, so the young woman could look her into her eyes.

XENA
Gabrielle if you had stayed and tried to fight back they would've done so much worse to you than what they did. Likely even did exactly what your sister's been through. Possibly worse. Don't you understand that they would have killed you? But likely not before they made your last moments in this mortal world a living hell. You did the right thing. Because if you hadn't, we wouldn't be here right now, and there'd be no plan to save your sister at all. Instead, both she and you, if you were even still alive, would be in the same exact circumstances that your sister is living in now anyway.

Xena gripped Gabrielle's shoulders firmly in an effort to get the seriousness of her point across.

XENA
(Stern tone) Nothing that happened to your sister, mother or anyone else who was taken was your fault just because you managed to get away when Draco's men came to your village. I need you to understand that. None of it is your fault. None. You understand? Because if you don't, I'll tell you this over and over again as many times as I need to until you finally get it through your head.

Gabrielle sniffled as she nodded slightly.

GABRIELLE.
(Quiet tone) Okay.

XENA
(Stern tone) Okay what? I wanna hear you say it, Gabrielle. What happened to your sister is not your fault.

Gabrielle let out a small, sad sigh as she did as she did as the Conqueror said.

GABRIELLE
What happened to Lila isn't my fault.

Hearing Gabrielle repeat those words and hoping that she would believe them, Xena softened her expression and gently drew the young woman back into her embrace and just held her for a while.

XENA
We're gonna free your sister from Draco. Then we'll find your mother.  And you'll see. It might take time, but it's gonna be okay.

GABRIELLE
But how can you be so sure?

Xena smirked.

XENA
Come on Gabrielle I know I might have changed a bit since you've been here, but I am still the Conqueror of Greece and a highly skilled fighter with years of battle experience. I've taken out army's triple the size of Draco's with far less resources at my disposal. So trust me, once we're ready that bastard won't even know what hit 'em until it's too late.

Hearing the confidence in Xena's voice, Gabrielle pulled away from her as she gave the woman a slightly worried look.

GABRIELLE
But he nearly killed you before. I remember the last time you went off to face his army you ended up with an injury that no one thought you'd be able to survive, let alone recover from.

Slowly Gabrielle brought her hand up to rest in the center of Xena's chest over the woman's nightshirt where Gabrielle could only imagine the scar left behind from what she had heard was Draco's sword as she remembered how vulnerable Xena was for a long time during her recovery.

XENA
Ì won't let that happen again.

Xena placed her hand over Gabrielle's.

XENA
Draco's power took me by surprise before. But this time I'll know what to expect, and I'll be ready for him with a few tricks of my own. So trust me, Gabrielle, you have nothing to worry about when it comes to my facing Draco again when the time comes.

GABRIELLE
But I heard that he was inhumanly strong when you fought him before, how are you even supposed to beat someone like that?

Xena scowled for a moment at the thought of how she still owed the god of war, Ares, for getting involved in the conflict between herself and Draco and how the god was the one responsible for giving Draco the power he used to nearly kill her when she and the warlord last met. And had already been planning around that possibility that the god could get involved further when her and Draco's armies met on the battlefield again.

XENA
Like I said, he got lucky in taking me by surprise before. But now that I know how low he's willing to stoop to win, then if I prepare for him to go even lower than I'll already be there ready for him when he does.

GABRIELLE
I guess that makes sense.

Gabrielle lowered her eyes for a moment as she had a troubling thought and raised her eyes to meet Xena's again.

GABRIELLE
But still Xena, please just promise me that you'll be careful and come back to me after face him again. I love you Xena and don't wanna lose you.

XENA
I promise.

Xena gripped Gabrielle's hand as she looked into the young woman's eyes.

XENA
And when I'm done, Draco will never be able to hurt anyone again. Your sister and everyone else that he's tormented will be safe. Then you and I will have the rest of our lives to spend together.

Placing a light kiss on Gabrielle's lips, Xena softly smiled as she pulled away from the young woman and moved to get up from her bed.

XENA
Now get some sleep. Unless you'd be more comfortable back in your room instead?

GABRIELLE
I'm fine here. That is if it's okay with you if I sleep here tonight.

XENA
Sure, If that's what you want.

The Conqueror stood up and began walking back to the pillow pile where she had been laying before.

GABRIELLE
Wait, you aren't really gonna sleep on the floor, are you?

Xena stopped and looked back at the young woman.

XENA
I'll be fine.
(Half Joking) You'd be surprised how many times I've fallen asleep in far less comfortable places.

Gabrielle looked down at the blanket that covered her for a moment as she responded.

GABRIELLE
Still, it doesn't seem fair that you sleep on the floor in your own room.

XENA
Yes well if you're sleeping there I wouldn't wanna make you uncomfortable by just hoping into bed with you.

Gabrielle thought for a moment as the image of waking up and seeing Xena laying beside her brought a slight blush to Gabrielle's face that she was able to hide in the dim light as she kept her answer as casual she could.

GABRIELLE
You wouldn't be making me uncomfortable at all. I mean we're just sleeping,  so it isn't really a big deal. Right?

Xena smiled softly.

XENA
No, I guess it's not.

And so Xena came back over to the bed as Gabrielle pushed over to one side as Xena laid down on the other and the two got comfortable beneath the covers. And after getting comfortable Xena closed her eyes for a bit but could feel herself being watched and peeked her eyes open to see Gabrielle looking at her with an uncertain expression in her eyes and moved her arm for Gabrielle to come closer. So taking the Conqueror's invitation, Gabrielle scooted to lay snuggled against Xena, as the woman put her arm around her and the two gradually drifted off to sleep. But as Gabrielle lay feeling safe and secure in the Conqueror's arms, with the plans to rescue Lila and for Xena to fight Draco and his army set in place, it would be only a short time later when Xena would ride off into a true battle for the first time since being injured by Draco some months ago. A battle that for as much as Xena made promises that she could handle and had tried to prepare for, it would be a fight like Xena could have never predicted. And as a result would very likely be her last.

The bright sun hung in the sky as droplets of water fell from the melting snow that sat on the tree branch just outside the window to the Conqueror's bedroom as she stood before her unopened wardrobe. Deep in thought, Xena brought her hand up to her chest as she let it slip into her shirt and traced her fingers over the scar that remained from her last encounter with Draco and how aside from the incident involving the Amazon's, she hadn't seen actual combat since the day she received the injury that had caused the scar that was left behind. She then balled her other hand into a first and let the one on her chest fall as her mind flashed to Gabrielle's face and the devastated look that the young woman had when she discovered what had happened to her sister.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) it's been a long time, and you might have thought you've taken me off the battlefield for good. But unfortunately for you Draco, the only way to do that will be to kill me.

The Conqueror scowled as she reached into her wardrobe and picked up her sword that had been set the in its sheathe alongside her armor and drew it as she looked it over to inspect its condition. And as she did, Xena caught a glimpse of herself reflected in the shiny metal. The memories of so many past bloody battles flashed through her mind. The wars she had waged, the people she had killed. The suffering she had caused. And all for what? A quest for power and greed? How many lives had been ruined at the end of her blade?

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I've spent so many years fighting and waging war for my own selfishness. For the lie that I kept telling myself that everything I was doing was for the benefit of Amphipolis and the rest of Greece. But in the end all I really wanted was to bring this world to its knees before me. But now...

Xena paused in her inner monolog as she tightened her grasp on her blades handle as a new sense of duty and resolve filled her.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I feel like I'm fighting for something so much more. It took me far too long to realize it, but this war with Draco has stopped being about who holds what land a long time ago. It isn't even about the vengeance I wanted for him nearly killing me anymore.

The Conqueror clenched her fists in anger as the thoughts of Gabrielle crying over her sister and how so many others like the both young women had suffered at the hands of people like Draco and herself. And even though Xena's methods of cruelty and destruction were different from Draco's, it didn't change the fact that far too many had been irreparably harmed by her in one way or another. A fact that had begun to haunt Xena for some time, as now when the woman thought of the incident people who had fallen victim to her, she couldn't help but see Gabrielle mixed in among the sea of pained faces that stood in the Conqueror's path of distraction.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Too many innocent people like Gabrielle have been suffering for too long because of people like Draco and me. And it has to end.

Xena clenched her fists tighter.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I know that nothing I do going forward could never make up for everything I've done. And that's something I'll spend the rest of my life living with. And after I'm done settling things with Draco, I'm not sure what will happen next. Only that I hope Gabrielle will be beside me. But before I can think about whatever future I might have, first I have to put an end to Draco.

Xena swung her blade several times in various directions to gage where her skill was after having gone such a long time without fighting.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Hm, normally I'd say this was fine for dealing with Draco. But based on his ability the last time we met and the fact that he's likely gotten a better handle on that damned power Ares gave him, I can't be over confident. Even knowing at least somewhat of what I'm going into, I need to make sure I'm ready for him this time. Or at least be sure that he isn't ready for me.

With the beginnings of a plan formulating in her head, Xena gave her blade a quick twirl and returned it to its sheathe and headed down to the practice grounds where her soldiers would often go to keep themselves in fighting form.

LEONIDAS
You called for me my lord?

Leonidas stood at attention in the doorway of the Conqueror's quarters as Xena finished giving her armor a quick final check to ensure that everything was securely in place, and then turned from her mirror to face her lieutenant.

XENA
Are the men ready?

LEONIDAS
Yes my lord. Everyone is down in the courtyard ready and waiting.

XENA
Very good.

LEONIDAS
And you my lord? It's been quite some time since your last real battle and I know you seem fully recovered from the injury you suffered at Draco's hand the last time the two of you met, but I can't help but wonder if you're up to such a tall task of this being your first time riding back into battle and going up against the very person who was the reason for your lengthy absence from battle when he nearly killed you.

Xena chuckled slightly.

XENA
You sound like Gabrielle. And while appreciate the concern...

Xena walked over to where her sword sat in its sheathe, picked it up and attached it to her side.

XENA
But you should know that I won't be taken down so easily. And I have no intention of dying today. So trust me I'm not leading us into this underestimating what might happen when we find Draco and his army.

She turned to face Leonidas.

XENA
But Draco has to be stopped. I won't let the people like Gabrielle, her sister or anyone else fall victim to him any longer.

Xena looked back at the mirror for a moment as images of her now former self flashed across her mind.

XENA
Or anyone like him.

Pushing away the thoughts of who she had been until just a relatively short time ago, Xena turned back to face Leonidas.

XENA
Now I think it's about time that I put an end to this war between Draco and myself once and for all.

With an intense look of determination raging in her eyes, Xena marched with purpose out of the room as she called for everyone to be ready to move out as soon as possible.

SOLDIER
Ready and awaiting your command, my lord.

The soldier stood at attention among the rest of his fellow men as Xena stood before them after stepping through the front doors of the keep to see her army gathered as they awaited her. The Conqueror took a moment to assess the readiness of the men before her and as expected found them up to her high standards as she moved to stand before her army.

XENA
Today's the day that we finally bring that son of a bitch Draco to his knees. He may have been able to catch us off guard last time, but for all his scheming he made the pivotal mistake of not finishing what he started when he had the chance. Because he won't get another one.

Xena drew her sword in a show of strength and leadership.

XENA
Because it doesn't matter how many men follow him, what kind of tricks he has up his sleeve or whoever he's somehow gotten to ally to his side. Because he's apparently forgotten who he's dealing with if he thought he could just lay low and try to use underhanded tactics to end this war after he failed to do so face to face. So since Draco is so insisted on waging this war in one way or another, I say we give him what he wants and bring this fight to him. Now let's go and show that son of a bitch that while he might know how to start a war, we know how to finish it.

Concluding her rallying speech, Xena let out an inspiring roar like war cry that got an eruption of similar shouts and cheers from the soldiers as her words had their intended effect of string the fighting spirit of the men before her and she gave the order for them go mount their horses and be ready to leave shortly. Following the Conqueror's command, the soldiers disbursed and moved to fetch their horses from the stable hands that were standing nearby. Meanwhile, as Xena turned to go to her own horse, she paused as she saw Cyrene approaching her and walked to meet her mother.

XENA
Didn't think you'd be coming to see me off.

CYRENE
And why wouldn't I?

XENA
Well you've never really been a very big fan of me doing this sort of thing.

CYRENE
It was never about you wielding a sword, Xena. It was what you were using it for that I couldn't stand.

XENA
I know.

Xena looked away slightly in an effort to conceal her feelings of guilt and remorse for not only the truly horrific things she had done, but for how all of it had inadvertently hurt her mother as a result.

CYRENE
But fighting to protect and save those who can't do so for themselves is as about as noble of a reason to wield a sword as I think there can be. And because of that I couldn't be more proud of you Xena.

The older woman held her arms open as Xena let a soft smile cross her lips and accepted the clear invitation as she shared a caring hug with Cyrene.

CYRENE
I know you're one of the best warriors there are but try and be careful out there okay.

Xena smiled at her mother's concern as she took a quick moment to reflect on how drastically her relationship with Cyrene had improved since the older woman had been brought to stay at the keep during Draco's advance toward Amphipolis which had been when Xena had suffered the injury to her chest that had kept her off the battlefield for so long.

XENA
I will.

Mother and daughter stepped back from one another.

XENA
Don't worry I'll be back soon mother. And then Amphipolis will finally be safe again and you can go back.

Xena paused for a moment, unsure if Cyrene even still wanted to return to Amphipolis after all this time at all.

XENA
But of course even after this is all over you're more than welcome to still live here if you'd like.

Cyrene smiled.

CYRENE
I know and thank you, Xena. But we can decide where I'm gonna live after you get back, okay?

Xena smiled back.

XENA
Sure.

Uncertain of what else to say, Xena gave her mother a nod goodbye.

XENA
Well until I get back then.

Bidding one more quick goodbye to Cyrene, Xena turned once again and made her way to her waiting horse and climbed up into the saddle. Then, taking the reins in her hands, the Conqueror began to steer her steed towards the front of her waiting soldiers.

XENA
Alright let's mo...

?
Xena!

After hearing the familiar voice suddenly shout from behind her, Xena paused in giving her command as she turned to see Gabrielle hurrying down the front steps of the keep's main entrance and swiftly hopped down from her saddle as the young woman made her way over to her.

XENA
Gabrielle, what are you doing out here?

Xena smiled as Gabrielle stopped in front of her.

XENA
You know you didn't have to come see me off. And... wait isn't that the staff you received from the Amazons?

GABRIELLE
It is.

Gabrielle planted the end of her staff on the ground as she held the weapon at her side as she stood as tall as her relatively short frame would allow as a disapproving look appeared on the Conqueror's face as she realized why Gabrielle was out there.

XENA
Absolutely not.

GABRIELLE
What do you mean no? She's my sister.

XENA
(Stern tone) You aren't coming Gabrielle. We aren't just going on some kind of errand. This is a battle, It's far too dangerous.

Gabrielle scowled.

GABRIELLE
You can't just expect me to stay here and do nothing. I've spent far too long just standing by while my sister needed help. I couldn't save her before when we were first captured by Draco's army, but now I have the chance to actually do something to save her.

Gabrielle tightened her grip on her staff in frustration.

GABRIELLE
You can't just ask me to stay here and do nothing again. I won't do it.

Xena eyed Gabrielle for a moment as she thought of how up until not so long ago if Gabrielle or anyone else for that matter had spoken so brasher to her, they would've been met with a swift and severe consequence for such disobedience. But after all the change that had taken place within Xena, and much of it due to the young woman before her, it was no longer the matter of Gabrielle going against what Xena had said, but rather her concern for what could very likely happen to the young woman once the fighting had begun.

XENA
This isn't a game Gabrielle. I'm already gonna have my hands full with taking out Draco and his army. On top of having to locate where your sister and whoever else they have held captive and making sure they're able to get to safely while keeping them protected from the fighting. I'm not gonna be able to do all that and make sure that you stay safe at the same time.

GABRIELLE
But you don't even know what Lila looks like. We're just assuming she's with them based off of a description. I need to see for myself if she's really there.

Xena raised her eyebrow.

XENA
Are you saying that if she's not then you have no interest in saving the prisoners?

GABRIELLE
Of course not. They deserve to be free, no matter if Lila's with them or not.

Gabrielle lowered her eyes.

GABRIELLE
I just... I know you said that my escaping before wasn't the cause for what happened to Lila, but I can't help but feel like because I wasn't able to do anything before, I have to do something to help her now.

Seeing the sadness in Gabrielle's eyes, Xena sighed as she felt for the young woman but still feared for what could happen to her if she came along with her and softened her tone toward her.

XENA
Look, I understand that you feel like you have something to make up for. Believe me I don't think you'll find someone else anywhere around here who understands that better than I do.

Xena placed her hands on Gabrielle's upper arms as she continued.

XENA
But don't you see that it's only because of you that I feel that way at all. And if someone were to happen to you...

GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) So it's okay for you to put your life on the line but not, me?

XENA
It is when only one of us is an actual skilled fighter and the other isn't.

GABRIELLE
But I've been practicing with my staff. I might not be near your level, but I think I know enough to defend myself. And besides, you seem to be forgetting that I'm not just some helpless girl that people always seem to think I am. I mean don't you remember what I had been through when you first found me. And then what happened with Velasca and her followers when I was with the Amazon's. And not to mention how I was poisoned by Isidora. And yet even after all that, in spite of not being a warrior I'm still here. So you're wrong if you think that just because I can't fight like you or the rest of your army that I'm just some damsel in distress that needs someone to constantly protect her.

Gabrielle looked at Xena with a saddened expression in her eyes.

GABRIELLE
So please Xena, I just wanna be there for my sister.

XENA
Gabrielle I understand that you wanna be there for your sister. I'm not saying you're weak or need for someone to always be watching you. And I know that you've gone through and survived things that not many others would be able to. But it's because of that, I don't wanna see you get hurt any more than you already have. Which is why you're staying here, and that's the end of it.

Seeing that Xena appeared to not be budging on the matter, Gabrielle quickly tried to think of anything she could say that would get Xena to agree to let her come with her to rescue her sister.

GABRIELLE
But what if I promise to stay away from the fighting. I mean if you wanna make sure the people Draco has captured can get away safely, they're gonna need someone to keep them all together and lead them away from the battle. So why not let me do it. This way all your men can keep their focus on the battle, and you won't have to worry about me fighting.

Xena looked at Gabrielle for a long moment, seemingly contemplating Gabrielle's proposal.

LEONIDAS
If I may, my lord.

Hearing her lieutenant's voice, Xena looked to her side to see Leonidas walk over to where she and Gabrielle were standing.

LEONIDAS
The little one may have a good point.

Not liking what he was saying, Xena eyed the man as he continued his apparent defense of Gabrielle's case.

LEONIDAS
If Draco is as strong as we fear he could be now, we may not be able to spare the men to escort the innocents away from danger. So it might very well be the best option to have someone who's not only a non-combatant, but is also inconspicuous. Thus making it far easier for her to slip around Draco's army unnoticed. Allowing her to reach the captives and sneak them away from the enemy undetected.

Making an annoyed growl, the Conqueror returned her attention to Gabrielle as she found herself somewhat irritated with the fact that for as much as she didn't want to, she couldn't help but admit that both Gabrielle and Leonidas had a valid point for the young woman's usefulness while they and the enemy army were all preoccupied. And so as a result, despite her reservations of allowing the young woman to accompany them to face Draco and his army, Xena reluctantly conceded in her demand for Gabrielle to stay remain at the keep.

XENA
Fine, I suppose you make a good point.
(Stern tone) But I don't wanna find you anywhere near the fighting, understand.

GABRIELLE
Okay.

XENA
(Stern tone) I'm serious Gabrielle. If you see anyone from Draco's army, I want you to either run the other way or find someplace to hide until it's safe. You are not to engage anyone unless you have absolutely no other options. Got it?

GABRIELLE
I won't.

XENA
Good. But in case you are left with no other option but to face one of Draco's soldiers I need to know that you'll be able to get yourself out of the situation safely. Now your staff, do you actually know how to use it?

Gabrielle moved her staff to hold it in both hands in front of her as she looked at the gift she had received from the Amazons some time ago.

GABRIELLE
Obviously I haven't had the opportunity to test it In an actual fight, but I have spent some of my spare time teaching myself how to handle and spin it in different directions. I like to think that I could at least defend myself if I had to.

Xena looked at the staff and with a keen eye could see a few scrapes at the end of the weapon that seemed to support Gabrielle's claims but decided that there was only one way to be certain.

XENA
Alright. Show me.

GABRIELLE
What?!

XENA
Show me. If you can prove to me that you know how to use that staff, then you can come and act as the escort for getting everyone held captive by Draco to safely.

Gabrielle looked at her staff for a moment before returning her focus to Xena.

GABRIELLE
But how am I supposed to do that?

Xena shrugged.

XENA
I'm afraid that's up to you. But if I were you, I'd figure it out in the next few minutes, or you won't be going anywhere.

After taking a quick moment to look around for how an idea, Gabrielle smiled at Xena as she walked up to a few of the Conqueror's soldiers and looked back at Xena as she asked her if she could have the soldiers step out from the rest and come toward her as though they were trying to attack her.

XENA
Well you heard the lady.

Giving that everyone in the keep was quite fond of Gabrielle and Xena's relationship with the young woman being known to everyone there, all the soldiers stood hesitant as none of them wanted to be responsible for potentially hurting her.

XENA
(Stern tone) Hey, I gave you an order. Now you.

Xena pointed to a soldier who was standing in the front row of army and motioned toward where Gabrielle had moved to stand a couple feet away with her staff held ready in both hands.

XENA
(Stern tone) I want you to go over there and only hold back enough not to kill. Other than that I want you to give it everything you have.

Xena looked at Gabrielle who heard what the Conqueror had said nodded that it was okay with her and that she was ready.

XENA
Alright go.

Reluctantly obeying their leaders command, the soldier rushed Gabrielle with his weapon drawn. Seeing him approach, Gabrielle held her staff firmly as she widened her stance slightly and waited for the soldier to come in close. Then just as he reached her and raised his arm to swing, Gabrielle hopped to the side and spun as she brought her staff into the back of one of his knees. This caused the knee to go out from under the soldier, making him drop as Gabrielle shifted and spun back toward his front while swinging her staff in an upward motion aiming for the now kneeling soldier's jaw but stopped just short of her hit connecting and stepped back as she didn't want to actually hurt someone without good reason and looked at Xena with a satisfied smirk on her face before returning her attention to the man kneeling in front of her and asked if he was okay.

XENA
Alright I guess you've proved you can at least somewhat defend yourself.

Gabrielle looked to see the Conqueror come to stand beside her as the woman asked the soldier about his knee, to which he stated that it wouldn't affect his ability to fight as he stood up and Xena told him to fall back in line with the rest of the army. As the soldier did as commanded, Xena looked at Gabrielle and gave a proud smile.

XENA
Nice work. Where'd you learn how to do something like that?

Gabrielle shrugged as she returned to holding her staff at her side.

GABRIELLE
You'd be surprised what a person can learn from going through all the stuff you have in those archives.

With a smile and a chuckle, Xena shook her head in mock disapproval.

XENA
You know you really are something else you know that.

Then almost as if she had flipped a switch, the woman's face became serious as she turned and began making her way back to her horse.

XENA
Alright let's get going. Come on Gabrielle, your sister is waiting.

With the mention of Lila, Gabrielle gripped her staff tighter and hurried behind Xena as the woman claimed on to her horse and held out her hand for Gabrielle to take.

XENA
Let's go. I hope you don't mind riding with me. Unless you'd rather your own horse.

Not having much experience with riding, the thought of being on a horse by herself wasn't particularly something that liked the thought of as she looked up at Xena in the saddle.

GABRIELLE
I think I'll be just fine riding with you if that's okay.

Not saying anything, Xena simply smiled as Gabrielle took hold of her arm and she pulled the young woman up into the saddle behind her. Then finally once Gabrielle was situated with her arms holding around her midsection, Xena looked back at Leonidas and the rest of her army.

XENA
Alright, now let's move out and make this the day that we bring an end to Draco for good.

Then giving a quick shout for her horse to move, and with Gabrielle riding in the saddle behind her, Xena lead her army out through the front gates of the keep and toward where the long awaited showdown against Draco and his army would finally take place. And what would soon play out on the battlefield that awaited them would not only decide the fates of the Conqueror, Gabrielle and the army riding behind them. But what would also happen to Greece as a whole. As whoever was left standing at the end of this battle would then hold enough power to shape the future of countless lives resting in the palm of their hands.

The trip was fairly quiet as the large group of soldiers rode behind the Conqueror as they trekked across the land on their way to the impending battle that they knew layed ahead. All of them focused and ready to fight or even potentially die for their leader's cause. And among the army, though not a soldier, Gabrielle was prepared to do her part to not only help save her sister and anyone else who might have been being held captive by Draco, but to prevent any more people from being hurt by the warlord or his men ever again.

GABRIELLE
Xena.

XENA
Yeah?

Xena glanced over her shoulder at the young woman seated behind her as they rode toward their destination.

GABRIELLE
When this is over, and we have everyone safe, do you think Lila and when we find them my parents can come stay with us at the keep like Cyrene?

XENA
I know you didn't care for it when you were there, but you wouldn't wanna go back to Potidea? I thought maybe after all this mess, you might've changed how you felt about being there.

GABRIELLE
Not really. I mean don't get me wrong I love my family, but like I said I never felt like I fit in there. And after everything I've seen and gotten to experience from my time with you, good or bad, I wouldn't have gotten to experience any of it if nothing had happened, and I was still in Potidea.

XENA
Sure but they're your family. I just thought you'd want to go back home.

Xena felt Gabrielle slightly tighten her hold around her waist as the younger women rested her head against the Conqueror's back.

GABRIELLE
I might have grown up in that village, but it's not my home. At least not anymore. I found a new home and place where I can belong.

The Conqueror smiled.

XENA
I'm glad you can consider the keep your home now.

The young woman raised her head.

GABRIELLE
Oh well don't get me wrong I love it at the keep, but I don't consider that to be my home either.

Xena looked back at the young woman with a curious expression.

XENA
The Amazons?

GABRIELLE
Nope.

Gabrielle giggled slightly as a completely baffled expression washed over the Conqueror's face as she couldn't think of another place that the young woman could possibly consider to be her home as according to Xena's knowledge, Gabrielle hadn't lived anywhere else.

GABRIELLE
Xena, have you ever heard that home doesn't have to be a place?

XENA
No I can't say I've heard that before.

GABRIELLE
Well it's something I heard, I don't remember where, but it's true. Home doesn't have to be a city, village or even a specific building or place. But instead home can be a person.

Gabrielle looked into Xena's eyes.

GABRIELLE
And that's what you are to me Xena. I love my family and I want them to be safe. But my home isn't with them in Potidea or even the keep. My home is wherever you are, because you yourself Xena are my home.

Not expecting Gabrielle to say something so beautiful, Xena found herself momentarily speechless at how much the young woman's words had touched her and smiled as she took one of Gabrielle's hands from around her midsection and brought it to her lips before finally finding the words she wanted to say.

XENA
I guess that's something we have in common.

Gabrielle smiled as the group rode on and Xena returned her attention forward.

XENA
And to answer your question of course your family can come live at the keep. That is if that's what you and they would want.

GABRIELLE
Why wouldn't they? We are going to save my sister after all. Then, when we find my parents, I'm certain they'll be happy to come live in such a lavish place. Especially compared to the modest way we've lived in our village.

XENA
Maybe. But keep in mind Gabrielle given my reputation there's a very high probability that they won't be too keen on the idea of living anywhere near me. Let alone in the same building. No matter how big it might be.

GABRIELLE
Sure maybe at first. But once they get to know the woman you are now and the person I love, then I'm sure they'll be just as happy to be there as I am. You'll see once this is all settled, we'll all be one big happy family living together.

Hearing the hopfull tone in the young woman's voice, Xena gave a tentative smile as she wanted nothing more than for Gabrielle to be happy and was prepared to do whatever she had to in order to make that happen

XENA
I look forward to it.

The group rode on for a while longer until they reached a small wooded area and Xena brought her horse to a stop, leaving her army to do the same as the Conqueror spotted one of the scouts she had sent ahead to survey the area and try pinpointing Draco's location approaching her on horseback.

SCOUT
My lord, up ahead in a valley just to the west. We've spotted what looks to be an army heading to the north-east.

XENA
Draco?

SCOUT
Uncertain. We didn't wanna risk getting too close and potentially be discovered before we could report to you.

Xena thought for a moment as she couldn't think of another army that would be in that area and figured it was very likely that the army ahead did in fact belong to Draco. But still wanting to exorcize caution regardless, Xena wanted to see what they were up against for herself before giving the order to launch her long awaited assault against who she hoped was the warlord and his army.

XENA
Show me where they are.

The scout turned his horse around and trotted ahead as Xena motioned back for Leonidas and the rest of her soldiers to follow her as she got her own horse in motion and with Gabrielle, went after the scout as they all made their way through a series of trees and came out atop a large hill that overlooked a valley where the Conqueror slowed everyone to a stop as the scout stopped beside her.

SCOUT
There, my lord.

Xena's eyes scanned the area for a brief moment before falling upon what was undeniably a very large armed force and as a result brought an icy scowl to the woman's face as she knew immediately from the banner the army flew exactly who those men were being led by.

XENA
No doubt. That's Draco's army alright.

She angerly tightened her hold on her horse's reins.

XENA
Okay Draco It's about time that you get what's been coming to you.

Xena looked back at Gabrielle.

XENA
This is it Gabrielle. Are you sure you wanna do this?

GABRIELLE
I am.

XENA
You remember what I told you?

GABRIELLE
I'll be careful.

XENA
Okay.

LEONIDAS
We await your command my lord.

The Conqueror turned her focus to her army as Leonidas rode up to her, and she drew her sword in response and raised it the air as she gave her command.

XENA
Attack!

Then letting a roar, the Conqueror's army charged down the hill and rode directly toward the enemy as Gabrielle held tight to Xena as their horses galloped among the rest of Xena's men.

HECTOR
Draco, there's any army heading straight for us.

Though not feeling the least bit threatened, the warlord turned on his horse to try and see who would have such a death wish that they would dare to attack him directly and immediately recognized the banner that was being flown by the oncoming force.

DRACO
Xena.

HECTOR
Xena? What's she doing here? And why now?

DRACO
Who cares. Ready the others and let her come.

An evil smile appeared on the warlord's face as he shouted for his men to prepare for battle watched the advancing army for.a moment.

DRACO
(Sinister tone) I think it's about time I finally get to finish what I started anyway.

Bringing her horse to a stop in the middle of the clearing as she let her army stampede by, Xena quickly helped Gabrielle slide from the saddle behind her.

XENA
Be careful and stay as out of sight as possible.

Now standing on the ground with her staff in hand, Gabrielle looked up at the Conqueror who remained seated on her mount.

GABRIELLE
I will. And you be careful too okay.

XENA
I will.

GABRIELLE
I love you Xena.

XENA
Love you too.

Xena smiled.

XENA
I guess I'll see you on the other side.

Though still worried about the young woman she was leaving to her own mission, Xena took one more look at Gabrielle and then got her horse back into motion and rode ahead into the fighting that had already begun, leaving Gabrielle to watch the Conqueror riding away before the young woman hurried off to get around the fighting and behind the enemy back line where Xena had told her that anyone not involved in the actual battle would likely be.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Where would someone even keep a slave during a battle anyway?

Gabrielle quietly snuck through a series of trees as she moved far off to the side in the direction that she had seen Xena and her army ride to meet Draco's army as she tried to figure out if Lila was being kept was nearby, where she might be held.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Come on Gabrielle think. If I didn't want something I had to be found or taken, where would I keep it?

She stood looking around for any kind of clues that might point her in the right direction.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Maybe somewhere out of the way. Somewhere hidden.

The young woman crept as silently as she could as she moved further up the line of trees for a bit before spotting a series of tents that were set up a good distance away from where the fighting was taking place.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Somewhere like that.

Once she made sure the coast was clear as she could still hear the sounds of the fighting nearby, and not seeing anyone around, keeping her staff ready, Gabrielle cautiously walked out from the trees and toward the tents.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I never thought I'd say this, but I really hope I'm in those slavers camp.

The young woman crouched down as she scurried behind a tent and peeked around the temporary structure to look around at the large campsite. As she looked, Gabrielle saw several horse's tied to trees, multiple weapon racks lined with various deadly weaponry as well as a few men that were casually sitting around, one of whom Gabrielle recognized immediately.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) That's the one who was in charge when we were taken from Potidea. And who we ran into shortly after I first met Xena, and she took me with her as she and her army traveled o Olympia.

Gabrielle remained hidden as she watched Hector and the others for a moment and tried to figure out her next move. Remembering the beating she received from the man after she tried to sacrifice herself to protect everyone else from her village, Gabrielle forced herself to push aside the series of mixed emotions that rose within her as she knew she couldn't afford to become distracted and instead focused on following Hector's and the others movements so she could hopefully find a way to sneak around them.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Okay I definitely found their camp, but I don't see Lila anywhere.

Now looking for any signs of her sister, Gabrielle spotted something else that based off how Xena had her campsite set up, she came to the conclusion that due to him being the leader of the army, the largest tent in the camp most likely belonged to Draco and shuttered at the unfortunate thought she had.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) If that's his tent, then that might be where he keeps Lila for... when he wants her.

Forcing herself to remain calm as the knowledge of what she now knew her sister had been suffering through came back front of her mind, remaining hidden Gabrielle began carefully moving closer to the tent where she hoped she'd find Lila.

HECTOR
And what do we have here?

Suddenly hearing Hector's voice, Gabrielle immediately froze in place as she found herself completely exposed crouched between two of the tents that she was using as cover. Gripping her staff tight, Gabrielle's mind raced as she tried to decide what she should do. The after taking a moment to think of how if she was there, Gabrielle refused to leave Lila again, the young woman prepared herself for a fight. And just as she was about to jump up she heard Hector continue.

HECTOR
(Annoyed tone) You're supposed to be on the east side of the camp on guard duty.

Realizing where his voice was actually coming from, Gabrielle looked over to see Hector talking to another soldier. Then realizing that neither hector nor the soldier he was scolding for apparently slacking off had actually seen her, Gabrielle hurried over and took cover behind the next tent in the line and continued moving toward the big tent, being certain that she kept as quiet as she could be.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I can't believe I actually made it back here without being seen.

Crouching beside the largest tent that she finally reached without being seen, the young woman kept in the shadows and looked to make sure no one was around as she carefully walked to the front of the tent. Then taking the opportunity and not wanting to risk being discovered, Gabrielle threw caution to the wind and quickly darted into the tent without checking who could be inside first as she just hoped she wouldn't come face to face with one of the soldiers or potentially even Draco himself.

?
You're back.

The tent was dim as Gabrielle heard someone speak when stepped inside and saw a figure stand up at the back of the tent. And though hidden in the shadows, just the sound of the person's voice was enough to bring tears to the young woman's eyes as Gabrielle knew immediately who the person now standing before her was.

GABRIELLE
Lila.

Having successfully stealthy infiltrated Draco's camp, Gabrielle found herself at long last reunited with her sister who she had feared she'd never see again and quickly moved further into the tent to embrace the younger women.

GABRIELLE
Lila.

Gabrielle put her arms around her sister and held her for a long moment as tears of joy streamed down her face.

GABRIELLE
I can't believe you're actually here. I've missed you more than you could ever know.

The reunited sisters stood there for a bit longer before Gabrielle finally composed herself and released her hold on Lila, who she could hardly believe was actually standing there before her.

GABRIELLE
After all this time, I finally found you.

Gabrielle smiled as she wiped her own tears away.

GABRIELLE
I was beginning to think I'd see you again, but now here you are. God's I can't believe Xena and her people actually did it. She really is amazing. I honestly don't know how I'm ever gonna be able to thank her enough for this. Oh, well, I can figure that out later. Right now we...

LILA
Gabrielle?

Hearing Lila say something, Gabrielle paused for a moment, feeling a bit confused by the question, but then realized that given where they were, now probably wasn't the best time to just stand around and talk.

GABRIELLE
Oh right, I suppose this isn't really the place for talking.

The blonde turned to leave.

GABRIELLE
Come on we can gather any one else being held here and sneak out before anyone notices us.

Gabrielle moved to the tent entrance and carefully peeked outside.

GABRIELLE
Okay the cost is clear. Come on. Make sure you stay low and quiet, and we should be able to get out of here without...

As she spoke, Gabrielle glanced back at her sister, who remained in place and stopped speaking mid-sentence when she saw Lila sit back down on the floor of the tent and pull her knees up to her chin as she wrapped her arms around her legs and stared at the ground in front of her.

GABRIELLE
Lila, what are you doing? Come on, we need to get out of here before someone sees me.

Not looking at her older sister, Lila spoke in for what Gabrielle for the first time realized was a very monotone voice.

LILA
What are you doing here?

GABRIELLE
Like I said before, I came to get you away from Draco. Now hurry we should get out of here before someone finds us.

Lila raised her eyes to meet Gabrielle's who for the first time noticed the vacant and broken look in her sister's eyes.

LILA
You shouldn't have come here Gabrielle. If those men outside see you...

Lila paused for a moment as she looked away.

GABRIELLE
Lila...

LILA

Please just go before someone sees you. Believe me, the further away from these monsters you are the better.

GABRIELLE
Not without you. I left you once, and I've regretted it every day since. I won't do it again.

Gabrielle quickly moved back to stand near Lila and knelt in front of her.

GABRIELLE
It's haunted me every day since. I wanted to find you and mother more than anything. I just… didn't know where to even begin.

Gabrielle lowered her eyes sadly.

GABRIELLE
I'm so sorry Lila. If things could've been different, then maybe I could've found you sooner and...

Gabrielle couldn't bring herself mention what she knew her sister had suffered as she looked at the young woman and held to fight to keep herself from breaking down as Lila averted her gaze again as she couldn't bear the painfully sympathetic look she was receiving from her.

LILA
How did you find me anyway? It's been a year since the day we were taken from Potidea. Then after those men came back after chasing you, I thought they had caught you and...

Lila shook her head in disbelief.

LILA
I thought you were dead. We all did. And mother, she was so devastated. I don't think I've ever seen her so distraught in my whole life.

Hearing Lila mention their mother, Gabrielle remembered that she still had no idea where she was and hoped Lila could tell her what happened to her after she escaped.

GABRIELLE
Speaking of mother, do you know where she is? Is she somewhere here too?

LILA
(Sad tone) No. She's not.

Though it was a long shot that Draco would have kept both mother and daughter together, Gabrielle couldn't help but feel somewhat dejected about the fact that she clearly wouldn't be reuniting with her mother that day as well.

GABRIELLE
Well don't worry Lila, Xena found you. I'm certain she'll be able to find mother too.

LILA
That's not possible. It's too late. She's gone.

GABRIELLE
Don't say that, Lila. I know things have been dark, but I promise once we get you out of here we'll find her. You'll see. Then we can...

Feeling like Gabrielle wasn't listening to what she was saying, Lila scowled as she stood up in frustration.

LILA
(Slightly angry tone) Don't you get it?! There is no finding her Gabrielle. She's gone and there's nothing anyone can do.

Taking aback by her sister's sudden outburst, Gabrielle couldn't help but feel somewhat disappointed in her sister's apparent willingness to give up on finding their mother.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly Irritated tone) And why not? I found you, didn't I? So there's no reason that we be able to find mother too.

LILA
(Angry tone) Because she's dead.

An almost defining silence suddenly filled the tent as not wanting to believe her sister's words, Gabrielle shook her head as what Lila had just said sank in.

GABRIELLE
No... she can't...

LILA
It's true. I wish it wasn't but...

Lila sat back down where she had previously been sitting, as the frustration she had felt just moments ago evaporated and was replaced with a deep sadness.

LILA
She's gone.

Able to see the clear heartbreak at the news of their mother's death on her sister's face, Lila took the initiative of answering the obvious question that she knew that the other young woman had.

LILA
After we were taken, everyone was brought to some big compound or something where we were all prepared to be sold off. I'll spare you the details, but it was about as bad as you could imagine. Anyone who disobeyed or was thought to not be working up to the standards they set were beaten. We were treated like animals. Worse even. Though for as terribly treated we were physically, the mental and emotional abuse was far worse. Because I guess selling slaves that aren't fit to perform the tasks given to them would be bad for business, breaking us down mentally was more beneficial I guess.

Lila paused for a moment as Gabrielle watched her clearly struggling with the memories of what she, their mother and so many others had suffered through as Gabrielle crouched in front of her and waited a few moments as Lila composed herself enough to continue.

LILA
It was there that mother fell ill. I tried everything I could to care for her, but even as I begged those monsters to help her, all they gave me was water to lower her fever.

Lila looked away.

LILA
(Sad tone) But after a bit even that did nothing to help. She just kept getting weaker and weaker until not long after she was gone. And a couple soldiers just dragged her body off and left it for the scavengers, complaining that it took too long, and they should've just got rid of her when she first got sick.

GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) ...No.

Gabrielle clenched her fists angerly as she listened to how cold these people truly were. Her heart broken at the terrible way her mother must have suffered before she died. But for as upsetting as this news was, Gabrielle remained where they were and knew that she would have to grieve later as she wiped the tears from her face and took her sister's hand.

GABRIELLE
I'm sorry Lila. For everything. But we need to go. Xena and her army are fighting Draco and his men as we speak. So we need to move while they're distracted enough for us all to escape and get to where we're supposed to meet up later.

Gabrielle stood up and helped a confused Lila to her feet as well.

LILA
Whose Xena? What army? What's going on? You still never explained where you've been all this time. Or how you found me.

Gabrielle picked up her staff that she had set down and moved to peek out of the tent.

GABRIELLE
Damn, there's too many walking around out there now.

LILA
Gabrielle.

Gabrielle turned around and began looking around the tent.

GABRIELLE
We need another way out of here.

She began rummaging through the things on the tent.

GABRIELLE
Lila, do know if there are any knives or anything like that around here?

LILA
I'm a slave, do you really think these people would leave deadly weapons just lying around for me to get my hands on?

Gabrielle paused in her search.

GABRIELLE
Good point. That means we're gonna have to figure out some other way for getting out of here unseen.

The blonde stood thinking for a moment as she looked around for anything that could potentially aid the pair in their efforts to escape. And after a moment her eyes found a small wooden crate that was sitting in the corner and got an idea.

GABRIELLE
That might work.

Quickly Gabrielle moved to the crate and spilled out its contents of assorted items on to the ground.

LILA
I doubt you'll find anything useful in that box. Like I already told you, there aren't gonna be anything that can be a weapon in here.

GABRIELLE
I'm not looking for a weapon and I already have what I was looking for right here.

Gabrielle held up the now empty crate for a moment before setting it back down on it's side and placed a foot on top of it to hold it down as she grabbed one of the small boards and began to pull on it.

GABRIELLE
Come on. Come off.

While focusing on her efforts to pry the wooden object apart, Gabrielle heard Lila speak again.

LILA
Gabrielle, whose Xena?

GABRIELLE
Huh?

Gabrielle paused in her task and looked back at her sister, having been too preoccupied with what she had been doing to fully hear what Lila had said.

LILA
Xena. You mentioned that someone named Xena was fighting against Draco. Is that how you got here? With this Xena person.

GABRIELLE
Oh. Yeah.

Gabrielle smiled and went back to pulling on the board as she spoke.

GABRIELLE
Xena's the whole reason why I'm even here. She had her people find you, and then we came here to rescue you and anyone else who might have been being held captive by Draco.

LILA
But you have no idea what kind of monster that man is Gabrielle.

Lila walked up to her sister.

LILA
I don't know who this Xena is, but her and her army are no match for what I've seen Draco capable of. I honestly don't think he's fully human.

Gabrielle gave the board one more yank before feeling it give way and break in two sending her stumbling back slightly before she steadied herself and grabbed her staff as she moved to the back of the tent and put her staff back down.

GABRIELLE
Oh don't worry Xena said she has a plan to stop Draco for good. And if the Conqueror of Greece says she's gonna do something.

Gabrielle chuckled slightly.

GABRIELLE 
Then believe me, I've learned that she'll find a way to do it.

Gabrielle raised the broken piece of wood in her hands and was about to continue when Lila suddenly grabbed her arm.

LILA
Did you just say the Conqueror? Is that who this Xena woman is? The Conqueror of Greece. That's who you're here with? Is that where you've been all this time?

Gabrielle lowered her arms as she turned to face her younger sister.

GABRIELLE
Yeah.

Lila shook her head in disbelief as she let go of Gabrielle and backed away.

LILA
Unbelievable. All this time I thought I was living in a nightmare. But I can't even imagine what you must've gone through at the hands of that woman. Gabrielle...

GABRIELLE
It's okay Lila, I'm fine.

The blonde walked back toward her sister.

GABRIELLE
Xena isn't the monster that people say she is. True, at first she kinda held me captive because she thought she could use me as leverage against Draco but then...

LILA
What did she do to you?

Gabrielle shrugged.

GABRIELLE
I got brought back to her home and put to work

Lila stood up and walked over to Gabrielle.

LILA
God's Gabrielle, I'm sorry. I never even imagined that you'd end up in an even worse place than I did.

GABRIELLE
What? No, I'm fine. Really. True at first I was scared and didn't know what was gonna happen to me, but then after a while Xena began to change. She actually saved me multiple times, and then I began to see a whole different side to her and...

Gabrielle paused as realized now wasn't the time or place to gush over her feelings for the Conqueror and looked down to try and hide the blush that she could feel creeping onto her face as she thought about the woman she loved. However, Gabrielle's attempt was in vain as Lila took notice of the way Gabrielle was acting as she spoke about the Conqueror as though she not only cared about her but felt something much deeper for the woman.

LILA
Okay now I'm really worried because the way you're acting makes it seem like you're about to tell me you're in love with her or something.

Gabrielle smiled sheepishly as she turned to work on making their way out.

GABRIELLE
We actually have our wedding coming up.

LILA
Your wedding!?

Lila grabbed her sister and turned her back to face her.

LILA
Gabrielle, have you lost your mind? What has that mad woman done to you?

GABRIELLE
Nothing.

Gabrielle gently pushed her sister's hands away.

GABRIELLE
Look I know it sounds crazy. I get it. I honestly thought I had lost my mind when I first started falling for her. But Xena's not the same person she was when I first met her. She's kind and caring for the people around her. She's changed so much sor the better. The whole reason we're here is because she knows how much you mean to me, and she did everything in her power to find you so we could free you.

LILA
You expect me to believe that?

GABRIELLE
If it wasn't true then why would we be here. More so why would I be here?

Gabrielle pointed toward the tent entrance.

GABRIELLE
You've been with Draco this whole time, so I'm sure I don't have to tell you what Xena's going up against. He nearly killed her the last time they fought. The gods only know how she was able to survive, but now she's out there fighting against him again knowing full well that she's overpowered. And she's doing that to save you and the others and stop that evil man from making anyone else suffer the way you, our mother and so many others have because of him. So please Lila I know it sounds crazy but if you can't trust Xena I understand. But please at least trust me.

Gabrielle lowered her arm as she held out her other hand toward her sister.

GABRIELLE
Hurry we need to go before someone notices. I promise I would never do anything that would put you in danger. You're my little sister and I know I couldn't save you before, but I can now. So come on let's go, and you can finally begin leave this nightmare behind. Please just trust me.

Gabrielle watched for a long moment as the younger woman seemed to contemplate everything she said and weighed her opinion. Then finally, she reached out and took Gabrielle's hand.

LILA
Alright Gabrielle. I trust you.

Smiling slightly for a moment that Lila was willing to go with her, Gabrielle's face quickly returned to being serious as she brought Lila over to the tent's opening before letting go and peeking outside and saw the coast was clear before looking at the other young woman.

GABRIELLE
Okay we have to get to where Xena and the others will meet us when the battle was over. Are there any other slaves being kept here?

LILA
A few.

GABRIELLE
Do you know where?

LILA
Yeah.

GABRIELLE
Okay. We'll get them and then get out of here and head to where Xena said to wait for her. Come on. And remember to keep low and stay quiet. Okay?

Lila gave a quick nod.

GABRIELLE
Alright let's go.

With the coast clear, and her staff in hand Gabrielle led Lila out of the tent and stealthily the sister's moved through the camp as Lila directed them to where the rest of the few slaves were and after some quick convincing, the small group carefully made their way out of the camp before any of the guards could notice them fleeing. And as the last of the captives moved past Gabrielle as she stood with Lila among the trees just outside the camp, the younger sister looked back at the camp for a moment until she felt Gabrielle's hand on her shoulder.

GABRIELLE
Don't worry Lila, you and the others are safe now. And soon Xena will make sure that no one else ever has to suffer at the hands of Draco again.

LILA
You really believe in her, don't you?

GABRIELLE
I do.

A saddened expression fell over Gabrielle's face as she thought of their mother.

GABRIELLE
I just wish we could've found you sooner. Then maybe mother...

Lila took her sister's hand.

LILA
I know she would be proud of the way you risked your life to come save us. I know things were sometimes tense between you and mother and father, but they loved you, you know.

A sad smile crossed Gabrielle's lips.

GABRIELLE
Yeah I know.

The older sister turned back toward where the other escaping captives were waiting for her to continue leading them.

GABRIELLE
Come on we should keep moving. We've got some way to go to reach the safe spot where we're supposed to wait.

Moving to the front of the small group, Gabrielle lead Lila and the rest of the captives toward the rendezvous point that had been given to her by Xena. And though Gabrielle was happy to at last see her sister safe, her heart still ached for the loss of her mother. But as the battle waged on in the distance, it would soon be unclear if Gabrielle would soon suffer another painful loss. Because with the showdown between Xena and Draco about to take place, it was still an unknown of just how Xena was even going to stand toe to toe with the powered up Draco. And more so, how she could possibly be able to defeat him. Or if she could even survive.

With the sounds of battle raging around her, the Conqueror was focused and calculating as she moved almost effortlessly through the surrounding soldiers. After sending Gabrielle off to find and guide Lila and any other slaves to safely, Xena had been busy leading her men in an all out assault against Draco and his force's. Her strategy had begun with her being sure to draw the warlord's attention and get all or at least the majority of his army out of the camp and on to the battlefield in order to give Gabrielle the best chance of completing her mission safely. Even if the thought of the young woman going into such a dangerous predicament worried Xena, and she wasn't happy with the plan, she knew that Gabrielle was their best option for getting everyone held captive by Draco out of that camp due to her being small and inconspicuous enough to slip by anyone in the camp unnoticed. Xena just hoped that the battle would provide enough of a diversion for Gabrielle get back out with Lila and get to safely. And so in her ever tactical ways on the battlefield, the Conqueror had led her army in a semicircle around where she knew Draco's camp was in an effort to draw the warlord's attention and draw them not only away from their encampment but out into a wide open space where Xena's watchful eyes could cover the battlefield and give any commands or adjustments to her strategy when needed. And so, with a fearsome yell, Xena swung her blade and sliced into an enemy soldier's stomach. As he fell, the Conqueror's instincts told her to turn around as she deflected another incoming attack that had been coming at her from behind. Without struggle, she shoved the soldier away and quickly followed up with a forward thrust of her blade and drove it into the man's midsection. Not stopping, her furry, Xena threw a boot backwards into a slavers kneecap, dropping him to the ground and by the time he tried to stand, the Conqueror's blade had been yanked from the soldier in front of her and was being swung toward his neck as Xena spun around quickly and used to momentum to bury her weapon into the side of the kneeling soldier's neck and continued until she had fully separated the man's head from his shoulders. She didn't even wait to see his body fall before she ran off, continuing to fight her way through the enemy army until she found herself standing atop a rock formation that was one of many that was scattered throughout the battlefield as she surveyed her surroundings, searching for the true target she sought that had thus far alluded her since the fighting that day had begun.

XENA
(Angry tone) Draco!

Xena turned slowly as she continued her search for the warlord amongst the fighting that surrounded her.

XENA
(Angry tone) I know you're around here somewhere.

The Conqueror lowered her weapon in an attempt to bait the warlord into attacking her if he thought her guard was down.

XENA
Well come on. I'm right here and waiting. So why don't you come out and face me. Or don't you wanna finish what you started.

Xena smirked as she casually moved her sword to rest over her shoulder and continued to taunt the warlord who though she couldn't see, was confident that due to her elevation, Draco had heard her and could also likely see the Conqueror from wherever he happened to be amongst the mess of waring soldier's around her.

XENA
Maybe all that extra power Ares gave you all been a waste, and you're too ashamed to bother showing your face because of your utter failure to get rid of me last time when you even had to element of surprise working in your favor.

Xena casually gave her sword a quick twirl as she carried on mocking Draco.

XENA
But I guess I get it. I mean after all, before you struck whatever pathetic deal you made with that good for nothing God, you were nothing more than an insignificant bug that scarcely ever even crossed my mind at all.

?
And yet you were the one who's been held up in that little fortress of yours for months like a wounded animal licking their wounds after needing your own soldiers to come to your rescue before I could put you out of your misery.

Hearing the familiar voice behind her, Xena turned around and immediately tightened her fist around her sword as she saw Draco standing several feet away from her and scowled as she saw the warlord's smirk when their eyes met.

XENA
It's just too bad you couldn't get the job done.

Draco rested his hand on the handle of his sword that was in it's sheathe at his side.

DRACO
Then I guess I should thank you for saving coming here so I can do just that. How is that hole I left in your chest healing up, anyway? You would think you were the one with a God on your side since you're you know, standing here right now still alive.

XENA
Guess I'm just lucky that way.

Draco sneered at Xena's continuous casual replies to his comments as he wanted nothing more than to finally rid himself of the only person who could stand between him and his goal of taking over all of Greece and ruling over it not as a warlord or even a king, but as a god who could make anyone bend to his will. And so with his sights firmly set on the woman standing in front of him, the warlord drew his sword and held it ready to fight.

DRACO
Well it's too bad for you that your luck has just run out.

In an instant and with next to no effort, Draco launched himself forward at Xena as he swung his blade. With the warlord closing the distance between them much faster than Xena had anticipated, the Conqueror was just barely able to get her weapon up in time to block the attack. Their steel clashed as Xena struggled to keep Draco from over powering her as he had done last time.

DRACO
(Mocking tone) What's wrong, Xena? Am I too much for you?

Draco laughed as he shoved Xena's sword away and proceeded to send a hard kick into her stomach that doubled her over and set her up for a powerful uppercut to her jaw that threw her back and dropping her to the ground.

DRACO
Come on Xena, you could at least try putting up some kind of fight.

Giving her head a quick shake in an effort to bring her mind back into focus. Of which had gone slightly hazy after receiving such a hard hit, Xena sat up and opened her mouth to check if her jaw was broken. And despite the pain was surprised that it still seemed to be intact.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I gotta be more careful. I take too many more hits like that in the wrong spot, and I'm as good as dead.

Xena glared at Draco as she stood back up.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I'm gonna have to figure out a way to end this quick. A drawn out battle will only continue to favor Draco more and more the longer it goes.

Keeping her pain hidden, Xena held her sword ready to fight once again, waiting for Draco to make the next move. Of which the warlord wasted little time in doing and came back at Xena with a series of attacks as he swung his blade again and again in a flurry that the Conqueror was barely able to fend off. That was at least until Draco knocked Xena's sword down, and she was just barely able to bring it back up in time to block, locking the two in a physical power struggle. With his strength being far greater than Xena's, Draco pushed harder against Xena's sword forcing both her blade and his toward the Conqueror who was driven down to one knee as she struggled to keep the sharp edges that was barely inches from her face from getting any closer. However, with Xena down to a knee gibing Draco additional leverage, at that moment the warlord truly seemed to have the upper hand. So knowing this fact Xena realized that her best option right then was to just stop fighting and let up on her efforts to hold Draco back. And as she did, Xena let herself fall back which also caused Draco to fall forward due to the sudden unexpected lack of resistance. And as the two fighters fell, the Conqueror quickly brought her feet up and planted them on Draco's stomach and pushed up as she sent the warlord up and over her head as her back met the ground and Draco was sent over and past her. Then not wasting any time the Conqueror kicked up to her feet and turned to quickly continue her offense with the opening she had just given herself. However, as she turned Xena cried out in pain as she felt her arm get sliced open after she was forced to immediately try to dodge an attack from Draco who it seemed had landed on his feet after being flipped and had already launched his counter-attack before Xena had even stood back up. Unable to completely regroup before the warlord attacked again, Xena barely dodged the strike and quickly jumped back to put some distance between them.

DRACO
Oh no Xena, you're not getting away this time.

Not taking any chances of his total victory over the Conqueror slipping through his fingers yet again, Draco did everything he could to keep the pressure on his opponent. It was so much so that despite having fought as hard as she could, Xena had begun to realize that she may very well have been fighting an unwinnable battle. A fact that was made very clear when a tiring Xena held her sword up yet again to block another powerful strike from Draco and had her blade broken in two from the impact, forcing her to stagger back a few steps after the blade snapped.

DRACO
Well there goes your weapon.

The warlord smirked as he paused in his assault to gloat.

DRACO
So tell me Xena, what's your plan now?

Huffing from the fatigue that had already begun to set in due to the effort she had need to use just to defend herself against Draco whose strength had surpassed her expectations, Xena knew that she needed to think fast now that she didn't have any weaponry to defend herself. So as her mind began to search for anything she could do that could finally bring an end to Draco and his path of distraction, Xena yelled as she flung her broken sword at the warlord who easily knocked it away with a swipe of his own weapon as he began slowly walking toward the clearly worn Conqueror.

DRACO
Now this is just getting sad. Come on Xena at least try to die with a little dignity. My how the mighty really has fallen. I gotta say, I'm a little disappointed that this is how "the all mighty Conqueror" is gonna meet her end. Scrambling around and desperately flailing like a suffocating fish that's been pulled from the water and was left flopping around in the dirt in a futile effort to save itself. Unaware that more it struggles the more miserable its last moments will be. It's kinda sad really.

Xena scowled as she stood eyeing Draco, determined to not let him get away with everything he had done, even if it killed her. So as she carefully kept her distance from the warlord, Xena's ever strategic mind begun to try piecing together a plan that she honestly wasn't certain would ever work. But at the moment she was desperate and any ideas she might've had going into this battle were no longer an option as Draco had grown far too powerful for them to work. So after taking a moment to run through the possibilities in her head, Xena decided that it was her best chance for putting an end to all the war for good.

XENA
Well what can I say Draco, I guess I've never really been good at knowing when to give up. And since this might be the end for me anyway...

Xena smirked.

XENA
I see no reason why I should start now.

Suddenly, diving to the side, Xena snatched up the broken off piece of her now disguard sword and ran toward Draco with the broken blade in hand. Seeing Xena raise her arm to throw, Draco readied his sword to deflect. But just when Draco assumed Xena would release the blade and was prepared to block, instead the Conqueror dove to the side as she twisted her body in midair and launched the sharp piece of steel at Draco. However, as soon as it had registered that Xena had changed direction, the warlord turned is head to follow her movements, but as he did, he was met with the sight of the piece of blade hurling toward him. With barely time to react, Draco instinctively raised his arm defensively as a only second later he let out a painful yell when the broken blade embedded itself into his shoulder. After a moment Draco lowered his arm and looked at where the blade was sticking out of his flesh and realized that based on where it had hit, if he hadn't raised his arm when he did, instead of his shoulder, the blade would have been stuck in his neck. And for all the power Ares had given him, Draco was still mortal, and a blade to his neck would almost certainly have been a death sentence. This realization angered the warlord as he turned his focus back to Xena.

DRACO
That was a desperate move if I ever saw one.

He reached up to grab the broken blade sticking in his flesh and ripped it out in one swift yank before dropping it to the ground at his feet as he let the blood from the wound run down his arm as he stared the Conqueror down.

DRACO
(Quiet angry tone) Too bad for you, it didn't work. And now that you've officially succeeded in pissing me off, I'm going to do my best to make sure that your death will be as slow and painful as possible.

Xena smirked.

XENA
Yeah well you can try. Though I'm pretty sure in order to do that you're gonna have to catch me first.

Suddenly just as she finished uttering those words, Xena took off running to the side, leaving and enraged Draco standing there.

DRACO
(Angry tone) I don't know what you think you're trying to do Xena, but if you think you're going to escape me again, especially after that shift you just pulled, oh you are in for a very rude awakening.

Draco begun briskly moving after the Conqueror.

DRACO
(Angry tone) By the time I'm done with you, you're gonna wish you had died when I ran my blade into your chest.

Covering a good span of the outskirts of the battlefield, Xena ran, with Draco hot on her heels. She moved as fast as her tiring and beaten body would take her as the two came upon and ran up a steep incline that layed a good distance to the side of where the two leaders armies were still locked in an intense battle. Though her body hurt and fatigue had begun to set in, Xena pushed onward as she continued her assent. Then, after running for several more yards, the Conqueror was forced to a stop as she was met with a dead end when she saw that nothing other than a cliff laid ahead. Slowly, Xena walked closer to the edge and looked over to see that there was nothing else around but a deep drop with a rushing river below that would even spell trouble for the biggest of giants if they were to go over.

DRACO
(Angry tone) Looks like there's no where left to you to run.

Hearing Draco's voice, Xena quickly turned to face the warlord as he slowly approached her. His eyes wild with rage as he moved.

DRACO
(Angry tone) You're gonna die here, Xena. But before that, you're gonna scream in agony as you beg for mercy until I finally decide to send you to rot in Tartarus.

Draco flashed an evil smile.

DRACO
And I'm gonna every single second of it.

Standing there with nothing to fight with and nowhere to run as she was faced with an enemy who could easily overpower her, if the Conqueror was intimidated or afraid, she didn't show it as she instead held up her bare fists as readied herself to continue to fight.

XENA
Then why don't you do us both a favor by shutting up and just doing it already.

DRACO
(Angry tone) Die Xena!

In a fit of rage directed toward Xena, Draco changed toward the unarmed Conqueror with his blade poised to strike. Although both injured and tired, Xena moved and dodged the warlord's attacks. She hopped back, jumped and rolled as she continued to evade Draco's blade. And every time she did, the warlord became more and more frustrated with the woman's refusal to quit, despite her clear inability of winning the fight.

DRACO
(Angry tone) You can't win Xena. Just look at you. You're clearly out of ideas, and you're doing nothing but just trying to survive now. So why don't you just give up, and maybe I'll consider changing my mind and making your death quick.

Standing there with no other options, Xena looked up at the sky that had begun to grow dim as the sun had just begun to st on the long, hard day Xena sighed to herself as she knew there was nothing else she could do.

XENA
You're right Draco I can't beat you.

She went quiet for a moment before returning her attention to the warlord who stood not far from her.

XENA
But even if I can't win, I'm gonna make certain that you can't either.

Draco sneered.

DRACO
(Angry tone) Just shut up and fucking die already!

With his sword tightly held in his grasp, in a blind rage and frustration that he hadn't been able to kill Xena already, Draco charged at the Conqueror who stood with nothing to fend him off with. And as the warlord closed in, Xena watched as Draco leapt toward her. Then just as the warlord was about to swing his blade, Xena quickly pivoted to the side and let Draco go right past her as the warlord's eyes suddenly went wide in terror as he was unable to stop his own momentum from propelling him beyond the cliff's ledge. In a full panic as he began to fall, Draco failed frantically as he tried to grab at anything within his reach. Which as a result led him to grabbing the only thing that was in reach which just happened to be Xena. It was then that the Conqueror suddenly found herself being dragged over the ledge with the warlord.

XENA
Gah!

Her hands clung to the ledge that she had somehow been able to grab on to in order to prevent her fall as she was then left hanging high above the raging river below as she struggled to hold both hers and Draco's weight as the warlord was still clinging to her. Draco glanced down at the rocks waters beneath them and knew that even with his increased strength, falling into those waters would almost certainly spell death for the warlord.

DRACO
What ever you do, don't let go.

XENA
And why shouldn't I?

Xena could already feel her grip beginning to slip as she spoke.

XENA
I swore that I would make sure you never hurt anyone again. And I'm prepared to do whatever it takes to keep that promise.

DRACO
Are you insane?! You let go and we're both dead. You're really gonna kill yourself just to stop me.

XENA
If that's what it takes to keep you from making any more innocent people suffer, then so be it.

DRACO
What?! No! You crazy bitch! I won't let you.

Draco frantically began trying to claw his way up Xena's body to reach the cliff's ledge. All the while the Conqueror could feel her hands slipping and knew that if she let Draco reach the top it would all be over for everyone who stood in his path next. And so knowing what she had to do, Xena closed her eyes as she let her thoughts go off to the ones who mattered to her most in the world.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) Mother I know I've said it before, but I truly am sorry for the pain I've caused you over the years. I know I can't change what I've done, but I hope that at least my last act in this life can be one that can finally make you proud.

Xena's hand slipped a bit further.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) And Gabrielle, wherever you are right now, please be safe, and I hope you were able to find your sister. I wish I had told you sooner just how much you mean to me. For so long my life had been nothing but darkness. And most of it of my own making. But then you came along then it all began to change. And who knows, maybe if I had met you years ago, then maybe everything could've turned out differently. Well, I guess it's pointless to think about what could've been now.

A sad smile crossed Xena's face.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I'm sorry I couldn't say goodbye face to face but just know that no matter what happens I love you. And that regardless of my title, you Gabrielle are my Conqueror.

And with that thought sent out into the universe and with Draco's hand grasping her arm as he continued to climb using her body as a ladder, Xena released her hold on the ledge and both she and Draco plummeted to the raging river below and were instantly sucked beneath the surface and swept away.

The river roared as both Xena and Draco Indefinitely fought for their lives while being roughly tossed around the raging rapids after the two had gone over the side of the cliff they had been fighting on just moments ago. Xena gasped for air as she breached the water's surface, and she fought to keep herself from being pulled back under while seeing Draco several feet away trying to do the same. But with it being spring and the snow in the area melting, the river was at a far higher water level, which in turn had made it far more choppy and unruly than it typically would have been any other time of year, and the Conqueror was pulled back under. As water forced its way into her lungs, the current brought her back up far enough for Xena to propel her head back above the water, and she gasped and coughed as she tried to catch her breath before she was inevitably be dragged back under as she continued to be carried down stream. This pattern continued as Xena made multiple attempts to fight to stay upright but quickly found that with the river being as volatile as it was, attempting to stabilize herself in any sort of way would be an impossibly as she was again pushed beneath the current, and she tried her best to hold her breath until the current would hopefully bring her back to the surface soon. However, after being carried for what was an unknown distance, the Conqueror realized that she would need to resurface soon as she continued to feel her lungs beginning to burn and her body's instincts to breathe trying to take over. Despite Xena having already mentally prepared herself to die, her body acted on its own as her natural survival instincts took over and left the Conqueror desperately trying to swim up to the surface. After swimming as hard as she could for what felt like an eternity, Xena saw something large beneath the water ahead and swam to put herself in its path. Then, allowing the current to bring her right to it, Xena reached out and grabbed on to what was a large rock that laid in the middle of the river. Then, holding on as tightly as she could, the Conqueror pulled herself up enough, so her head was finally able to breach the river's surface and gasped loudly as she was finally able to breathe once again. Coughing up a bit of water as she let her head rest against the rock for a moment, Xena could feel the effects of her fight with Draco on her weary body, that was certainly made worse by the very rough trip down river as she shivered slightly from the early spring coldness of the water. After a moment Xena raised her head and attempted to pull herself out of the water. But as the rock was far too slick and smooth due to it being in the river, her efforts to climb to safely were in vain as the Conqueror was unable to get enough traction and repeatedly slipped back down after making any slightest progress. Then finally after many multiple attempts to climb out of the chilling waters, Xena knew that there was no escaping her fate and decided that if this was to be how her life ended then she would be okay with that as she knew that she had escaped death far too many times then one person should already. As so accepting that Draco had already suffered the same fate that she was about to, Xena felt that she could rest easy knowing that Gabrielle, her sister and everyone else would now be safe from the warlord was gone. Because even with his power, Xena knew that like her, Draco wouldn't have been able to get himself out of the river, let alone survive the jagged rocks that Xena knew layed not much further downstream. And so closing her eyes, Xena let go of the rock and prepared herself to be swept away. But just as she began to be carried off, Xena felt her wrist being grabbed, and she opened her eyes as she was pulled back to the rock.

?
You always were something, you know that?

Hearing the voice that she immediately recognized, Xena scowled as she looked up to see Ares crouched on the rock she had been holding on to.

ARES
I honestly never expected you'd pull something like this in order to win over Draco. And I gotta say, Xena, I'm impressed.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Spare me your flattery, Ares. What are you doing here? Wait let me guess, you've come to finish me off yourself since your boy Draco failed.

The god of war let out a small chuckle.

ARES
Hardly.

Xena pulled her arm out Ares grasp and held onto the rock as he continued.

ARES
Like I just said, the fact you were able to defeat Draco is quite the incredible feat. So much so that I couldn't help but take note of.

XENA
(Irritated/ sarcastic tone) So you figured you'd come congratulate me in person.

Ares shrugged casually.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Yeah well you can save it for someone else who gives a damn about what you think.

ARES
(Condescending tone) Hey now, is that really the way to talk to someone who's your only chance of survival right now?

Xena sneered at the god.

XENA
(Angry tone) Fuck off Ares. You're the main reason I'm even in this situation to begin with.

The Conqueror slipped a little, and she fought to keep herself from being pulled away from the rock she was clinging to as Ares continued their conversation.

ARES
Well did you ever think that might be why I'm here? I see now that I clearly placed far too much faith in Draco, only to have the moron waste what I gave him. He became complacent and was too focused on you to focus on what he should've been doing.

XENA
Sounds like the two of you have something in common.

ARES
(Sarcasm) Yes Xena keep insulting the one who's here to help you. That'll get you out of this mess for sure.

XENA
Oh yeah. And why would you wanna help me?

The god of war smiled.

ARES
Simple. I know what you're capable of Xena. Even without me, you've managed to amass everything you have. You've gone to war and beaten countless enemies on the battlefield. You're strategies and fighting skills are legendary.

Ares reached down to brush the wet hair from Xena's face.

ARES
Just think what we could do together. You and me. The god of war and his warrior queen side by side conquering the world. That is what you wanted after all isn't it? I can give you everything you need to do that. And all you have to do is say you'll be mine.

With a scowl on her face, Xena yanked her head away from the gods hand before returning an enraged stare his way.

XENA
(Angry tone) You know I can't tell if you're really that stupid or if you just think I am. Because if you think you can help someone you know wants me dead because I turned you down and then show back up after I beat them just to offer me the same thing I've turned down before, you've clearly lost your fucking mind if you think I would ever want anything to do with you.

ARES
So you're telling me that you would rather die than accept my help? Now I'm starting to think you might be out of your mind.

Ares held out his hand for the Conqueror to take.

ARES
Come on, just reach up and take my hand. We can sort everything else out afterward.

Xena looked at the hand offered to her for a moment before turning her head away.

XENA
I thought I had already made myself clear. I don't want your help Ares.

Ares scowled.

ARES
You can't be serious Xena. Put aside the fact that I helped that warlord. You're about to die, and you're still gonna refuse help from the only one around who can save you.

XENA
Nice try, but I know how this goes Ares. I accept your help and then I owe you. I can only imagine what you would want return, and I'm not interested.

ARES
(Irritated tone) So you'd rather die and just throw all your power and everything that you've built away instead?

XENA
Yes. Because over this past year things have changed.... I've changed. I'm not the same Xena you seem to be so obsessed over.

ARES
What are you talking about?

XENA
Because of someone, I've learned that there are things in this world that are far more important, far more precious and worth more than anything that I could ever hope to gain from the life I was living or what you could ever offer me. And that's a gift that I'll forever be grateful.

Ares scowled at the thought that there could ever be anyone who Xena thought could possibly compete with anything that the almighty god of war could give her.

ARES
You do remember I'm a god, don't you? What could anyone possibly give you that I can't?

Xena smiled as Gabrielle's face came to her mind.

XENA
A reason to be better

ARES
(Surprised tone) What?

XENA
I'm not the person I was. The person you're clearly unable to let go of doesn't exist anymore. She died long before I even stepped foot on this battlefield today. And if you ask me this world's a better place with her gone.

A sad smile found its way to Xena's face.

XENA
I just wish I had found Gabrielle sooner. Then maybe that woman would've been history sooner. But while I can't change the past, I can do something that'll help ensure a better future by making sure who I was stays dead and that you or anyone else can't do anything that could bring her back.

Then before Ares knew what was happening, Xena pushed herself away from the rock she'd been holding onto and let herself get dragged under as she got swept away.

GABRIELLE
Come on we're almost to where Xena said to wait.

Gabrielle walked along as she led her sister and the few other escaping slaves to the designated area she'd been told to go to after finding her sister.

GABRIELLE
You okay Lila? Do you need to rest?

Gabrielle looked over at Lila who was walking slowly beside her with her head hung low until she heard Gabrielle talk to her, and she glanced over at her older sister.

LILA
(Slightly Irritated tone) I'm fine, Gabrielle. You don't need to keep asking me that every few minutes.

For a moment Gabrielle was taking aback by her sister's attitude until she reminded herself that given everything that she had gone through, it only made sense that Lila wouldn't be acting the same way that Gabrielle remembered from back in Potidea. So instead of getting upset at her sister's snippiness, Gabrielle just moved the conversation forward as they continued walking.

GABRIELLE
Oh... sorry. Well like I said we're almost there, so we can all relax soon enough. So I guess taking a break right now wouldn't make much sense anyway.

Lila returned to being quiet and Gabrielle looked back at the rest of the group and made sure they were okay to keep going as well and got the go ahead to continue onward. Which she did until they reached the spot that Gabrielle had been told to wait with the escaping slaves and the group sat and waited for Xena and her army to meet them there.

LILA
Just how long are we supposed to wait here?

GABRIELLE
I'm not sure honestly.

Gabrielle looked up at the sky as the sun had begun to set some time ago and there was still no signs of the Conqueror or her army anywhere.

GABRIELLE
I was just supposed to get you and come here. Xena never said how long the battle could take.

Lila scoffed.

LILA
Maybe your Conqueror decided it wasn't worth the hassle as just left when she realized what she was fighting. That or they were all defeated and killed by the other army.

Gabrielle scowled as she looked at her sister.

GABRIELLE
(Stern tone) They're not all dead. And Xena did not abandon us. Her and her army must still be fighting.

Gabrielle's attention returned to watching for any signs of Xena and the rest of her army.

GABRIELLE
You'll see. They'll be here soon. I just know it.

Meanwhile, all across the battlefield Leonidas and the rest of Xena's army were pushing Draco's army back as in Xena's absence from the area, the Conqueror's lieutenant lead the charge.

LEONIDAS
We've got them right where we want them! Don't let up, and this fight will soon be ours!

Leonidas ran his sword through an enemy soldier as Xena's army pressed forward and continued their fight against Draco's forces. It had been a long day of fighting as after a virtual standstill for most of the battle, Xena's army had finally begun to wear Draco's down and were starting to overwhelm and drive them back. Dispute this however, the fighting carried on for sometime until a small flame was seen being shot into the sky in the distance that because of the dying daylight could be seen clearly all across the battlefield and Leonidas noticed that Draco's army either began to lay down their weapons in surrender or turn tail and make a full retreat. And because of all this, the lieutenant knew that could only mean that Draco had been defeated or surrendered and that flaming arrow going up must have been the signal to his army that the battle had been lost. And so with Draco's army surrendering and on retreat, Leonidas gave the order to let them go and proclaimed their victory to a rousing series of cheers from the rest of the soldiers before the lieutenant gave the order for the remaining able-bodied men to span the battlefield to find and treat their wounded soldiers and take account of their casualties before gathering their bodies while they waited for the Conqueror to return.

GABRIELLE
There they are.

Gabrielle stood up from where she had been sitting beside Lila as she saw Xena's army approaching and went over to meet them but began to become worried when she didn't see Xena leading them and hurried up to Leonidas when she saw him leading the group and who stopped his horse when he saw Gabrielle coming up to him.

GABRIELLE
Leonidas.

LEONIDAS
Hey there little one. I'm glad to see that you managed to get through today safe and sound. Were you able to find your sister?

GABRIELLE
I did. She and the others that were being held captive are over there.

The young woman motioned toward where Lila and the others were gathered, then returned her attention to the man on the horse when he spoke.

LEONIDAS
That's wonderful. I'm truly happy that you've finally been able to be reunited with her.

Gabrielle smiled as she glanced over at her sister.

GABRIELLE
Thanks. I can't even begin to describe how grateful I am to have her finally safe and free from that evil man.

She looked back at Leonidas.

GABRIELLE
Speaking of which, due to the fact that you're here, does this mean it's over?

The lieutenant dismounted his horse and gave a gentle smile.

LEONIDAS
That's right. We received notice that Draco was defeated and what was left of his army surrendered.

Gabrielle looked passed Leonidas for Xena, expecting her to ride up but then quickly became worried when she didn't see Xena anywhere among the other soldiers and looked at the human sized wrapped bundles that were draped over the backs of many of the horses before quickly loading back at Leonidas with a fearful expression in her eyes.

GABRIELLE
Leonidas, where's Xena?

LEONIDAS
Unfortunately we don't know. There's been no word on her for quite some time. Last I heard, someone said they spotted her fighting and supposedly she and Draco found each other. They were fighting for a while before they were both seen running off and that was the last anyone has seen of either of them.

GABRIELLE
But then how do you know Draco was defeated if no one has seen him or Xena for some time now?

LEONIDAS
Because after Draco's army suddenly retreated and everyone on our side regrouped back together, I questioned one of the dying soldiers, who said that the signal we all saw meant that Draco had been beaten. So either he surrendered, which I don't see being very likely. Or someone on his side saw him be killed or found his body after the fact.

GABRIELLE
Okay. But if Draco's been killed or ordered a retreat that still doesn't explain where Xena is.

LEONIDAS
I know, and we have people looking for any signs of her as we speak.

Seeing the worry on Gabrielle's face, Leonidas placed a gentle, reassuring hand on the young woman's shoulder.

LEONIDAS
It'll be okay little one. We'll find her and everything will be just fine. You know how stong and resilient the lord Conqueror can be.

Leonidas gave a reassuring smile.

LEONIDAS
She did survive a sword through the chest after all. Any other person would've died almost immediately from such an injury. And if that doesn't speak to her ability to do the impossible I don't know what will.

Gabrielle sighed as she looked out into the distance once again as she hoped that Xena would appear soon.

GABRIELLE
I hope you're right, Leonidas. I really do.

Gabrielle and the rest of those at the rendezvous point waited a while longer for either Xena to show or for news of her whereabouts to come from those out searching. There was barely any daylight remaining in the sky overhead when Gabrielle heard someone shouting and stood from where she was sitting beside a campfire that had been built with Lila who was nibbling on a little bit of dinner that had been cooked up by some of the soldiers for everyone to get some food in their stomachs after the long day. Then seeing one of the soldiers who had been sent out to search for Xena hurrying over to where Leonidas siting, Gabrielle rushed over when she saw the lieutenant quickly rise and told the rest of the soldiers to begin packing up to head out.

GABRIELLE
Did they find her?

LEONIDAS
No not yet. I'm sorry. That was just an update saying that there's still no sign of her.

Gabrielle lowered her eyes sadly.

GABRIELLE
Oh. Okay.

The brief hope that Xena would be found dashed, Gabrielle turned around and walked away. But feeling too anxious to sit back down, she instead told Lila she needed to stretch her legs and took to walking around the outskirts of the camp as a part of her hoped she might spot Xena coming back. Not long after Gabrielle found herself standing with the camp behind her, but was still close enough to see the fire and the outlines of the people moving around the camp. She looked out into the near darkness and didn't know what she would do if her fears of the situation proved to be real and Xena was either found dead or never found at all. Which Gabrielle couldn't decide on which scenario would be worse. Standing there lost in her thoughts, Gabrielle was suddenly startled when she suddenly heard an unfamiliar voice behind her.

?
Interesting.

Gabrielle jumped slightly as she quickly turned around and saw a man she had never seen before standing right in front of her forcing her to move back slightly as the darkly dressed stranger seemed to take inventory of her.

GABRIELLE
Who are you? If you're looking for trouble, there's a whole army right over there. All I have to do is yell, and you're dead meat.

The man looked at Gabrielle with more intrigue before he shook his head as he crossed his arms and spoke.

?
Your name wouldn't happen to be Gabrielle, would it?

Cautiously, Gabrielle confirmed that it was in fact her name as the stranger seemed to quickly look her over again before appearing to stand there baffled.

?
Hm, yeah, I don't get it. What would possibly make Xena fall for someone like you?

Hearing the man mention Xena's name, Gabrielle realized that whoever this was clearly knew the Conqueror. And given that he seemed to even know well enough to call her by name, Gabrielle hopped that he might be an ally who might've found the missing woman.

GABRIELLE
Wait, you know Xena? Do you know where she is?

The man looked at Gabrielle closely again for a moment before he smiled.

?
You don't know who I am. Do you?

Gabrielle studied the dark haired stranger for a moment to see if he was someone who she had met before but still didn't recognize him.

GABRIELLE
I'm sorry I don't recognize you. Have we met somewhere before? I don't remember you coming to the keep.

The man sighed to himself as he shook his head in disbelief.

?
People these days don't know a god when ones standing right in front of their face.

Gabrielle gasped in disbelief.

GABRIELLE
A god?!

?
That's right.

The man spread his arms and turned in a circle in an attempt to show himself off to the astounded young woman.

?
You're looking at the one and only, the great and almighty god of war himself.

Gabrielle's eyes widened in amazement as she could hardly believe what she was seeing.

GABRIELLE
Ares? You can't be serious?

ARES
What you want proof? Or do you wanna know where your precious Conqueror is?

Gabrielle's focus was swiftly refocused on Xena.

GABRIELLE
You know where she is? Please, you have to tell me.

ARES
And why should I? She made her choice when she refused me and decided that she'd be better off drowning in that river then accept the offer I gave her.

A feeling of pure dread suddenly washed over Gabrielle as Ares told her about Xena apparently going into a nearby river and then being swept away and without another word ran back to camp to tell Leonidas as Ares stood watching her for a moment before disappearing with the thought that it wouldn't matter if they found Xena new anyway as since it had been hours since when the god had watched Xena let herself be taken away by the raging river, he was sure it was already far too late for her. And though still disappointed in Xena's choices, Ares decided that her death was her own fault, and he had done her a favor in giving her people a hint for at least recovering her body, and disappeared from the scene as Gabrielle alerted Leonidas of what Ares had told her. Who immediately believed the young woman as he was aware of Xena's multiple encounters with the god of war over the years and though unsure of Ares' motives for telling Gabrielle what he did, the lieutenant decided to take the chance that the god was telling the truth and quickly mobilized a number of other soldiers to spread out along the river and search for Xena. And after refusing to stay at the camp while the search party lit their torches and headed back out, Gabrielle convinced Leonidas to take her with them. And as she rode with the lieutenant toward where their search would resume, Gabrielle hopped that the narrowed down area would be enough for them to finally find the Conqueror. But for all the new hope that Gabrielle had for locating the Xena, she would be completely unprepared for the reality of what she would find when the group would arrive in the area where they now suspected Xena might be. And more so how it would soon change everything in her life yet again.

Following her brief, unnerving conversation with Ares, Gabrielle came running back into camp even more panicked about Xena's likely fate than she already had been where she quickly found Leonidas who was now up on patrol of the camp for any potential threats that might show up.

GABRIELLE
Leonidas. Leonidas.

Hearing Gabrielle's voice and then looking to see the young woman coming over to him, the lieutenant stopped his patrol and walked to meet Gabrielle.

LEONIDAS
What is it little one? Did you need something?

GABRIELLE
(Huffing) Xena...

Gabrielle paused to catch her breath after having ran all the way from outside the opposite end of the large camp where she had spoken with Ares just moments ago as Leonidas gave the young woman a sympathetic look.

LEONIDAS
I'm sorry Gabrielle, I wish I had something to tell you, but sadly there still hasn't been any progress in fighting the lord Conqueror.

The main looked at Gabrielle's face and could tell that she was on the verge of tears and quickly continued in an attempt to comfort her.

LEONIDAS
But that doesn't mean she's not still out there.

Leonidas put his hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.

LEONIDAS
You'll see Gabrielle. We'll find the lord Conqueror and she'll be okay.

Gabrielle lowered her head and shook it as she began to cry as she felt she would likely never see Xena again.

GABRIELLE
No, she isn't. Xena's gone and...

Unable to continue, Gabrielle just cried as Leonidas put his arms around her and did his best to comfort her as he waited for the young woman to calm down before he let her go and continued their conversation.

LEONIDAS
Are you gonna be okay?

Gabrielle sniffled as she dried her eyes.

GABRIELLE
I don't know. It's just Xena...

Gabrielle paused not wanting to continue as what she had said a few moments prior stood out to Leonidas as being odd and decided to question the young woman about it and gestured for her to sit down on the nearby rock as he crouched down to speak to her at eye level.

LEONIDAS
Yes, you were saying that the lord Conqueror was gone, but we don't know that yet. I know it's difficult but it's far too early to give up, we have to keep believing that she's alive

Gabrielle lowered her eyes.

GABRIELLE
But you don't understand, I just met Ares and...

LEONIDAS
Ares?!

Aware of the god's interest in Xena as well as his role in the conflict with Draco, hearing Ares' name unexpectedly come from Gabrielle sent off the lieutenant's mental warnings that something was very much amis

LEONIDAS
Because I'm assuming that you haven't had much or more likely any actual interaction with any of the god's, I feel I need to warn you that you have to be careful when it comes to trusting them. Most of them aren't particularly kind to mortals. Which becomes even worse if they feel that they've been disrespected or in some cases like this, rejected.

Though confused as to why Ares would want to try tricking her, and what exactly he meant by bringing up what could happen if the god felt disrespected or rejected, Gabrielle pushed aside her natural curiosity as she knew that informing Leonidas of what the god had told her was a far more pressing matter.

GABRIELLE
Okay maybe the gods can be tricky, manipulative or down right terrible, and I don't know whatever interest he clearly has in any of this, but he told me that Xena went into the nearby river. He said she was swept away and giving how long it's been since the fighting ended, she... I can't.

Not wanting to finish the thought, Gabrielle found herself at a loss for words as she turned around and began to walk away as what Ares said to the young woman seemed to strike Leonidas as being too odd of a thing for the god to lie about. Which got Leonidas thinking it likely to at least partially true and found himself unsure of anything he could say that would comfort Gabrielle as if what Ares said was to be believed, it was highly likely that Xena may very well be lost to them forever. But regardless of whether any of what Ares said was true or not, Leonidas decided that it couldn't hurt to at least have some people go investigate the area. Because if nothing else it would at least give Gabrielle some hope that Xena could still be found.

LEONIDAS
Hold on.

The lieutenant jogged to get in front of Gabrielle and stopped her from walking away.

LEONIDAS
Even if the lord Conqueror did go into the river, that doesn't necessarily mean it's too late. She can still alive, and we aren't going to give up searching until we find her.

Gabrielle looked away as she couldn't imagine Xena surviving falling into the rushing waters after spending the whole day fighting and how exhausted and possibly injured she was when she went in. But as the thoughts of Xena being dead filled Gabrielle's mind, small spark of hope worked its way through the darkness as Gabrielle remembered what she had survived the day prior to the night that she had managed to stumble into outskirts of the Conqueror's camp., where she and Xena first met. Gabrielle returned her attention to Leonidas as the new hope that Xena was still alive emerged.

GABRIELLE
Leonidas, has anyone searched near the river that today's fighting took place near?

LEONIDAS
The river? No. The fighting today didn't work its way anywhere near there so no one's thought to check around that area. Why, did Ares say something that makes you think we should check there?

GABRIELLE
Actually he did.

The young woman quickly explained what Ares had told her. Leaving him with a better understanding of why Gabrielle had seemed so certain of Xena's demise as a troubled look shown on his face.

LEONIDAS
I see. That's not good at all. If that's true then as much as I don't want to say this, but we may in fact be too late. The river's in the area this time of year are highly dangerous due to the rise in water levels from the melting snow. And because of that it causes the currents to be much stronger in the early spring. Which sadly means that someone falling in usually means that they don't come back out alive. I'm sorry little one, but I think we may now just be searching for the lord Conqueror's body.

GABRIELLE
But I managed to survive after I fell in when I was running from Draco's men around this time last year. So if I can come away from something like that I know Xena can.

Leonidas looked at Gabrielle for a moment, as he had forgotten about how the young woman had first found her way to them. And despite his doubts that luck would strike twice for the same deadly scenario, he knew that he wouldn't be able to rest until they found the Conqueror either way. So putting on a hopeful front for Gabrielle, Leonidas gave the young woman a soft smile.

LEONIDAS
Okay. I'll gather some of the others out immediately, and we'll continue our search down stream and along the river backs. Stay strong little one. I'll let you know if we find anything.

The lieutenant began to turn to leave when Gabrielle called after him, and he stopped to look back at her.

GABRIELLE
Wait I wanna come with you.

LEONIDAS
Are you sure? I would think that you would want to stay with your sister.

Gabrielle looked over at Lila who was still sitting where she had been where she had overheard the whole conversation and waved her off.

LILA
Don't worry about me. What worse can happen to me here than already has with that other army?

The comment hit Gabrielle hard as she was reminded of the heartbreaking reality of what her sister had gone through and walked over to her and crouched in front of her.

GABRIELLE
I promise you Lila, no one here is going to hurt you. But if you're not comfortable being left alone with them, I'll stay here with you while the other's go look for Xena.

Lila looked at Gabrielle for a moment and could see just from the hurt and worry in Gabrielle's eyes how much the Conqueror clearly meant to her, as she put the best smile that the abused young woman could muster and casually waved Gabrielle off.

LILA
Don't worry about me. If you say I'm safe here, then I trust you. I'll be fine. Now go find your Conqueror. I'll be right here when you come back.

Gabrielle hugged her sister for a long moment.

GABRIELLE
Thank you Lila.

The two separated as Gabrielle stood up.

GABRIELLE
I'll be back soon.

Turning around Gabrielle hurried over to where Leonidas was mounting his horse and Gabrielle got helped up into the saddle behind him before he got his horse in motion and with Gabrielle, led the search party that had been gathered out of the camp and toward the river.

LEONIDAS
Okay, everyone spread out as far along the banks as you can. If you see anything, notify me immediately. Now go.

With their mission clear, the soldiers spread out along the river as they searched both sides for any signs of Xena as unable to just stand by and do nothing any longer, Gabrielle turned to the lieutenant.

GABRIELLE
I'm gonna go look over there.

The young woman motioned further downstream.

LEONIDAS
Okay but don't wonder too far and be sure not to get to close to the edge. The ground on the riverbanks can be unstable, and you can easily fall in if you tread cautiously.

GABRIELLE
I'll be careful.

Taking her staff she had brought with her, Gabrielle moved further downstream. She searched along the river for a while, using her staff to keep herself from slipping by sticking it into the mud as she walked and searched for any signs of Xena.

GABRIELLE at javascript:;
Xena!

Gabrielle called out in the hopes that the woman could hear her as she stopped to take a better look at the new area around her.

GABRIELLE
Xena!

Calling out again and getting no response, Gabrielle continued a little further as she continued her search until she came across a tree that had fallen into the river and as she got closer she could see something else in the water that had been caught on the tree. Quickly moving to get a better look, Gabrielle could feel her heart skip a beat as she soon realized what she was looking at.

GABRIELLE
Xena.

Breaking into a full run upon finally finding her, Gabrielle quickly reached the fallen tree where Xena was tangled among the branches and called out to the woman.

GABRIELLE
Xena can you hear me?

Not getting any response, Gabrielle could see the Conqueror's eyes were closed as she remained unmoving in the water while the current pushing against her. Her heart sinking, Gabrielle yelled as loud as she could for help.

GABRIELLE
Over here! Leonidas, I found her!

Crying, Gabrielle looked back to Xena as she watched and waited for Leonidas and several others to come pull Xena's body out of the water.

GABRIELLE
(Quiet sad tone) I found her.

Once Leonidas and a couple other soldiers worked to retrieve Xena from the river, Gabrielle raced to the woman's side as she was laid on the riverbank and Leonidas began the C.P.R. that all the soldiers were taught by Xena as part of their basic field training. Watching for several agonizingly long minutes as the lieutenant tried everything he could to bring Xena back, Gabrielle sank to the ground as she saw nothing that was being done have any effect as Xena just laid there completely unresponsive. Until finally Leonidas sat back and shook his head before looking at Gabrielle who could already feel the tears beginning to fall.

LEONIDAS
(Somber tone) I've done everything that can be done. I'm sorry, she's gone.

GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) No.

The words stripping the last shred of hope that Gabrielle had for Xena's survival away, the young woman broke down completely as she wept and laid over the Conqueror as she held her and her tears mixed into the woman's already soaked clothes.

GABRIELLE
You can't leave me like this Xena. You swore you'd come back after you stopped Draco. You promised you'd be okay.

Gabrielle pulled back slightly as she looked down at the unmoving woman.

GABRIELLE
You promised me Xena.

Too absorbed in her grief to think about what she was doing, Gabrielle cried as she brought a frustrated balled up fist down against Xena's chest.

GABRIELLE
(Sad tone) You promised.

Bringing her hand down once more, Gabrielle jumped back slightly when she suddenly heard a loud gasp and then watched as Xena coughed and spit up a shocking amount of water as the woman rolled to her side a worked to catch her breath for a few moments before rolling back onto her back and Gabrielle saw a pair of blue eyes looking up at her along with a soft smile.

XENA
(Tired/ joking tone) Thanks. I needed that.

Overjoyed that Xena was alive, Gabrielle practically jumped on the woman as she layed her head on Xena's chest and held her as her tears of sorrow turned to tears of joy.

GABRIELLE
I thought you were gone Xena, I was so scared that I had lost you.

Reaching up, the Conqueror generally rested her hand on Gabrielle's head as she looked up at the early night sky while she comforted the young woman.

XENA
Hey, you should know by now that it's gonna take a whole lot more than a little water to get rid of me.

Xena gave Gabrielle a little kiss on the blonde's head as she chuckled a bit before letting out a small sigh of relief.

XENA
(Joking tone) No, I'm afraid you're stuck with me.

After a few more moments, Gabrielle finally pulled away and remained kneeling beside Xena who groaned as she slowly sat up and heard Leonidas speak as he crouched beside her.

LEONIDAS
Are you alright my lord? You know you really shouldn't be moving around until we know the extent of your injuries.

XENA
I'll live. I'll admit I'm kinda banged up, but I've been in far worse shape than this before. So I'm pretty sure moving around a little won't kill me. Now, if you wouldn't mind giving me a little hand here.

Taking the Conqueror's hint, Leonidas carefully helped Xena to stand as Gabrielle got up as well and put Xena's arm over her shoulder to keep the tired and handed the banged up woman her staff to help keep her up right as Xena's mind returned to the moments just before she went into the water and turned her attention back to Leonidas.

XENA
Okay now that we all can see that I'm okay, fill me in on everything I missed while I was taking my little nap.

Ignoring the casual way she had just spike about how she had come very close to dying again, Leonidas gave the Conqueror a briefing of the outcome of the battle. Telling her that Draco had been found dead Which in turn had led to his army's surrender, allowed their side claim a total victory over the battle and the war against the warlord.

XENA
Good. Anywhere that bastard ends up in Tartarus will be too good for 'em.

Then remembering why Gabrielle had insisted on being there for this final battle against the warlord, Xena returned her focus to the young woman.

XENA
Which reminds me Gabrielle, we're you able to find your sister?

GABRIELLE
Yeah I found her. She's waiting back at camp with the couple of other slaves that I found. I hope it's okay that I brought them back too.

Xena smiled as again she marveled at the young woman's compassion and pulled her a little closer as she hugged her with the one arm that was draped around her.

XENA
Of course that's okay. Now, unless you wanna stand around and look at this river some more, I say we get out of here and get ready to head back home.

Gabrielle smiled as, with Xena's arm around her shoulders to help the tired and sore woman walk, the two women and Leonidas made their way back to camp where the rest of Xena's army celebrated her return. Then, after Xena's injuries were treated and she convinced Leonidas and Gabrielle that she was okay to travel, everyone saddled up and began their trip back to the keep. And now that Lila was finally free and safe, Gabrielle smiled as looked up at the twinkling night sky as after over a year since her home village was attacked, she could finally begin to leave the nightmare behind as she could move on knowing Lila was safe at last. And silently gave thanks to the gods above for bringing her and Xena together. As she never could have imagined that the night two women met, it would lead them to where they were right then. Or to where they would soon be. Because as the sun set on the long journey that had lead them to where they were, a new dawn would rise on a whole new journey that both women would soon venture together.

It was a few days after Draco's defeat and Xena, Gabrielle and everyone else returned to the keep. Aside from the initial, brief celebration of the warlord no longer being a threat, it was all business as usual for those in the Conqueror's employ. And for Xena, even though she still had to perform the typical duties required of a good ruler to maintain order over her large expanse of territory, it was the first time in months that she felt like she was finally able to fully relax and not have to think about the possibility of an immanent attack of scheme. And as Xena sat in her study gazing out of her window, she smiled to herself as she remembered the reason how the conflict between herself and Draco had started over a dispute over which of them controlled what part of Greece. But yet when the Conqueror was out on the battlefield finally getting to confront the warlord, the thoughts of who owned what piece of land never came to mind even once. Instead, her only goal was to bring the warlord's reign of terror to an end and to protect those like Lila from being victimized any further by him or his men. So as Xena turned to resume going through the newly arrived letters on her desk, she glanced over to the door for a moment as her thoughts turned to Gabrielle as she thought of putting her work off to go find her soon-to-be bride, but instead decided against it as she figured it would be better to give the young woman some time alone with her sister and instead returned to the task of working to decide what she was going to do with all the land that she had acquired from Draco's death. Which was just one more thing that Xena had decided that she needed to get sorted out. Along with a number of other things that since returning to the keep, she had begun to contemplate making arrangements for.

GABRIELLE
Is it okay if I come in?

After giving a small knock, Gabrielle cracked open the door to the room that had been prepared for Lila and peeked her head in to see her younger sister sitting at the small table by the window and walked in as Lila looked at her for a moment before returning her gaze out the window as she shrugged in indifference. Taking the nonverbal response as an invitation, Gabrielle walked into the room and walked over to stand against the wall across from where Lila was sitting as an uncomfortable silence hung between them for a moment before Gabrielle spoke despite not really knowing what she should say.

GABRIELLE
So how's the room? You know if there's anything you need all you have to do is say so, and we'll get it for you right away.

LILA
(Monotone) I'm fine.

GABRIELLE
Okay. Well when you do all you have to do is talk to anyone any it'll be taken care of.

Just making a small sound that said she understood, Lila returned her attention toward the window as more silence filled the room as Gabrielle watched her sister for a moment as she tried to think of what she should say. Because while she was beyond ecstatic to finally see Lila safe, knowing at least some of what her sister had gone through made their reunion far more difficult for Gabrielle than she had escaped, because as much as she wanted to do whatever she could to try and help Lila heal, Gabrielle was at a complete loss for where she should even begin. Especially because the last thing she ever wanted to do was to accidentally cause her sister anyone pain or trauma than she already had endured.

GABRIELLE
So how are you today?

LILA
Fine.

GABRIELLE
That's good.

More awkward silence found its way into the room until not being able to stand the way her own sister was acting so uncomfortably around her, Lila spoke again.

LILA
(Slightly Irritated tone) You know you don't have to treat me like I'm a fragile piece of pottery that'll shatter at the slightest breeze.

GABRIELLE
What? But I'm not I just...

Lila scowled as she looked at Gabrielle.

LILA
(Slightly Irritated tone) Yes you are. Ever since we got here you've treated me completely different from the way you used to back home. Instead of talking my ear off about something or other or acting as excited as someone who's about to be married should when talking to their sister. you just keep giving me with that sympathetic look and always asking how I am no matter how many times I tell you I'm okay.

GABRIELLE
I don't mean to, I just...

LILA
(Irritated tone) Don't believe me.

GABRIELLE
No. I mean yes. I mean...

Gabrielle paused as she was at a loss for what she should say while Lila looked away as she continued.

LILA
Look Gabrielle, what happened to me is something that I'm gonna have to live with, and I get that you're trying to help and be careful not to upset me but please I need you to just treat me normal. Stop trying to coddle me. If you don't know what to say that's fine, but stop trying to baby me and just admit that you're uncomfortable and don't know what to say instead.

Gabrielle sighed as she walked over and sat across from her sister.

GABRIELLE
I'm sorry Lila. I don't mean to, I just... you're right I don't know what to say or do. But you're my sister and knowing some of what you went through while you were with Draco I just don't know what I can do to help you deal with it all.

Lila reached over and held Gabrielle's hand as she gave a small sad smile.

LILA
I know that, and you can help me by just treating me like your sister nothing more.

Gabrielle put her other hand over Lila's.

GABRIELLE
Okay. I'll try.

A small smile crossed Gabrielle's lips as she gripped her sister's hand a little tighter.

GABRIELLE
So now that we have that sorted out, if you're up to it, how would you feel about helping me do some wedding planning?

Leaning back in her seat, the Conqueror sighed as she tossed her quill on the desk in front of her and picked up the paper she had just finished writing to read it over when she heard a knock on the door to her study and called for the person to enter.

LEONIDAS
Good afternoon my lord.

The lieutenant saluted with a fist held to his chest as he stood in the doorway for a moment before walking up to the desk Xena sat behind.

LEONIDAS
You called for me?

XENA
Yes I have a number of letters and documents here that I need sent out.

Leonidas looked down at the mountain of scrolls that were stacked on the Conqueror's deck.

LEONIDAS
My lord, if you were this far behind on your workload you could have said something.

XENA
Actually this is all new.

Xena chuckled slightly as she picked up a couple of the top scrolls and placed them to the side.

XENA
These are sorting out what to do with Draco's territories that I gained automatically from his death.

LEONIDAS
Aren't you keeping it?

XENA
Nope. I honestly have no desire to pick up where he left off.

Leonidas looked at the Conqueror with a great deal of surprise.

LEONIDAS
But wouldn't this be the perfect opportunity to pick up the areas he controlled before someone else takes claim to them?

Xena shrugged.

XENA
It would. But like I said I'm just not interested.

Hearing her uncharacteristic response, the Conqueror's lieutenant stood unsure of what to make of her statement that was completely contradictory to everything he had known the woman's grand ambitions to be.

LEONIDAS
But I thought you wanted to unite all of Greece under your banner?

XENA
The plan's changed.

Xena picked up a scroll while seemingly becoming deep in thought as she continued.

XENA
Just like so much else that has.

The Conqueror rose from her chair as she came out from behind her desk to stand in front of Leonidas as she handed him the scroll.

LEONIDAS
What's this?

XENA
A declaration.

Xena nodded to the large pile of scrolls that remained on her desk.

XENA
The same as all of those. All to be sent out to every city, village and territory under my control.

LEONIDAS
A declaration? May I ask what for?

XENA
The liberation of every piece of land I hold.

LEONIDAS
Liberation.?!

The man could hardly believe what he thought he was hearing.

LEONIDAS
My lord, surely this must be a joke.

XENA
Not at all. But you're free to check for yourself to see that every letter here is one hundred percent official.

Leonidas shook his head in disbelief as he tried to figure out what the Conqueror could have possibly been thinking by doing something like this.

LEONIDAS
I don't understand. Why after everything would, you send out a mass proclamation declaring every territory you hold liberated?

Xena returned to her seat.

XENA
Because honestly after everything that's happened this past year, having all this power, doing whatever I please, going after and crushing anyone who dared to oppose me...

The Conqueror sighed as placed her elbow on the arm of her chair and she shook her head as she rested her chin in her hand.

XENA
None of this feels right anymore.

LEONIDAS
But everything you've done it was for the benefit of Greece and it's people. Wasn't this all to protect Amphipolis and those you loved.

XENA
Maybe it was at one point.

The Conqueror lowered her arm as she looked at Leonidas.

XENA
But come on we both know that hasn't actually had anything to do with what I've done for a very long time.

LEONIDAS
And what about now? Don't the people under your rule deserve the security your rule has brought them? Just like the rest of these lands that would benefit from being brought under your sovereignty?

XENA
The people don't need someone like me ruling over them. My rule has done barely anything to actually change the average person's life. Every day there are people all over who still suffer. They're still victimized by the very things I swore to prevent. Just look at what happened to Gabrielle and her sister. Their village was in an area under my control, but that did nothing to stop Draco from attacking it anyway and because of that, their mother is dead. No one knows what happened to their father. Gabrielle has had to live with the guilt of leaving her family behind after she nearly died escaping from Draco's men. And I don't think I have to remind you what her sister has gone through.

Xena clenched her fists in frustration.

XENA
My rule did nothing to prevent that son of a bitch from causing unforgivable suffering to not only them but so many others. And if I can't stop someone like him from running rampant over the places that are under my control and harm the very people that I'm supposed to keep safe, then all the questionable and down right unforgivable things I've done in the name protecting those very people has all been for nothing aside from serving my own greed and selfishness. Which now is something that I'm ashamed to admit has been all I've truly been doing for far too long. And it's beyond time that comes to an end and I begin trying to make things right. I know I'll never be able to truly make amends for all the suffering I've caused, but if I put at least as much effort as I did into doing things that destroyed people's lives than maybe I can at the very least try and prevent more innocent people from falling victim to the other people like me. Which is why I have to give up this all up. I became what I was because of the anger and lost for power that I thought I needed to achieve my goals.

Xena stood up.

XENA
And now if I want to work to begin making up for all of it, I have to give back what was never really mine to take in the first place.

LEONIDAS
I think I understand.

XENA
Good. Then have those letters sent out as soon as possible.

The Conqueror's lieutenant saluted his leader.

LEONIDAS
Yes my lord, I'll have them delivered to the carrier's right away.

XENA
Very good.

Coming out from behind her desk, Xena walked past Leonidas as she headed to the door to leave her study but stopped when she heard Leonidas ask her something.

LEONIDAS
If I may ask my lord...

The Conqueror looked back at the man.

XENA
Hm?

LEONIDAS
if you're no longer trying to unite Greece, then what will you do?

Not expecting to be asked such a question, Xena stood there as she was thought for a moment.

XENA
Not sure. I've been so busy sorting all the land stuff out, I guess I haven't thought about it. But I'm sure I'll...

Catching a glance of the sun's position outside the windows, Xena paused mid-sentence as her thoughts quickly shifted to a completely different subject that she had almost completely slipped her mind.

XENA
Shit, it's that late already?

LEONIDAS
Something wrong?

XENA
I gotta go. Doing all that took much longer than I thought it would, and I promised Gabrielle I'd meet her for dinner then help her look over the finalized plans for the wedding after I was done here,

Leonidas smirked at the drastic shift in Xena's demeanor when it came to anything involving Gabrielle.

LEONIDAS
(Teasing tone) Well you have better get going then. We wouldn't want to keep the bride to be waiting any longer than she already has, would we?

XENA
(Annoyed tone) Didn't I just give you have a job to do? Quit being a smart ass and get going.

Keeping the knowing smirk on his face and paying no mind to the unhappy scowl on the Conqueror's, Leonidas gave a quick salute before turning to leave.

LEONIDAS
(Disingenuous tone) Yes, my lord.
(Teasing tone) Be sure to say hello to the little one for me.

XENA
(Irritated tone) Out.

The scowl growing on her face, Xena aggressively pointed toward the door and with the stack of scrolls under his arm, Leonidas chuckled as he left and Xena walked out of the room behind him to go meet up with Gabrielle. And as Xena walked briskly down the halls to find the young woman she would soon marry while cursing how hectic her life always seemed to be, she had no way of knowing what laid ahead in the final remaining days before her and Gabrielle's wedding. And as a result just how chaotic the keep would very soon become.

The keep was a buzz with excitement and anticipation as Xena and Gabrielle's wedding day drew closer with each passing day. A few weeks went by, and it seemed that the final prepositions were at last nearly complete. Or at least that's what Xena thought until early one afternoon when there was a knock on the door to her study.

XENA
Enter.

LEONIDAS
Afternoon, my lord.

Xena glanced up from what she was reading for a brief moment before returning her attention to the paper in her hands as Leonidas opened the door and entered the room and made his way up to her desk.

LEONIDAS
I have to say I'm a bit surprised to see you in here.

Upon hearing such an odd commitment, the Conqueror lowered her scroll as she gave her lieutenant a suspicious look.

XENA
(Suspicious tone) And just what is that supposed to mean? Last I checked this was my study. So why shouldn't I be here?

LEONIDAS
Oh my apologies my lord. I thought you would've already been informed of the Amazons impending arrival.

Now even more confused about what the man was talking about, Xena completely set aside what she had been looking over.

XENA
The Amazons? Do you know which tribe?

LEONIDAS
From the reports we just received it appears to be the tribe ruled by queen Melosa.

XENA
Melosa's tribe, huh?

Remembering that the initial reason for the last time that Melosa the other Amazons from her village had come to the keep, Xena realized that the reason for this visit was likely for the Amazon queen to express her thanks for eliminating the threat of Draco to her people. Or at least that was what she hoped as the memories of the chaos that was caused by the Amazon's last visit flashed through the Conqueror's mind.

LEONIDAS
Should I send some of our men out to meet them?

XENA
Yes. But be sure to send them simply as escorts to greet them.

LEONIDAS
Yes of course my lord.

Giving a quick salute, the lieutenant left the Conqueror's study as Xena reclined back in her chair as she let out a small sigh.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) If the Amazons showing up here goes anywhere how their last visit did, I'm going to seriously consider burning that treaty.

It was a little later when Gabrielle was walking with Lila and Elle from the dining room and the trio of young women noticed a number of people gathering in the entrance hall of the keep.

ELLE
Wonder what's going on?

GABRIELLE
No idea.

Gabrielle looked over at Elle who she had introduced to Lila shortly after her sister had been brought back to the keep.

GABRIELLE
I hope there isn't something wrong.

?
We can hope. But if the last time the Amazon's showed up here is any indication of anything I wouldn't hold your breath.

Hearing the voice that she would know anywhere coming from behind her, Gabrielle turned slightly to see Xena walking toward her, Lila and Elle.

GABRIELLE
The Amazon's?

XENA
Yup. Looks like it's some familiar faces too.

Xena stopped beside Gabrielle and flashed a small smirk at the blonde.

XENA
(Joking tone) So don't you go getting any ideas to go running off with them again.

Gabrielle didn't get the chance to respond as before with a quick wink, the Conqueror continued making her way to the front doors and headed outside to meet with the arriving Amazon's as Gabrielle, Lila, Elle and a number of the others from the crowd gathered just outside the door as Xena walked down the stairs and watched the Amazons horses ride into the courtyard. After coming to a stop, the Amazon queen dismounted her horse and began walking up to where the Conqueror stood as the rest of the group that Gabrielle recognized a number of faces among climbed down from their own mounts.

MELOSA
Conqueror.

XENA
Melosa.

Xena extended her hand in greeting and she and Melosa grasped one another's forearms in the warrior's handshake.

MELOSA
Your looking well these days.

XENA
Thanks.

Both women released their grip.

XENA
So to what do I owe the pleasure your visit this time? Your people aren't under threat again I hope.

MELOSA
No, quite the contrary, actually.

Xena raised an intrigued eyebrow.

XENA
Meaning?

MELOSA
We heard about you defeating Draco. And though you had your own reasons for putting an end to him, it's because of you and your army that the Amazon people are able to rest a little easier without having those people serving as a persistent, looming threat. And for that Conqueror, you have my thanks.

XENA
Glad to hear your people are a little safer now.

Xena glanced over the Amazon queen's shoulder at the number of other women who were standing behind her.

XENA
Thought while I appreciate the personal show of gratitude, I highly doubt you would personally come all this way just to offer me your thanks instead of simply sending a small group of messengers or a letter.

MELOSA
True. However, when it comes to the matter of Amazonian royalty and more importantly the person who's next in line for the throne, simply sending a letter isn't really an option.

Xena scowled as she knew immediately who Melosa was talking about.

XENA
What are you talking about? What does Gabrielle have to do with your being here? If you think Gabrielle is going anywhere near that village unless you found that maniac Velasca who nearly killed Gabrielle the last time she was there, you had better just take your people and leave right now.

Seeing the seriousness of the threat in the Conqueror's eyes, and not wanting to risk any problems starting between them, Melosa moved swiftly to ease the sudden tension as she continued.

MELOSA
Relax Conqueror, we aren't here to take anyone anywhere.

?
Then if you don't mind me asking Melosa...

Hearing a voice speak up from behind the Xena, the Conqueror and the Amazons looked to see Gabrielle walk up and stand beside Xena.

GABRIELLE
What does why you're here have to do with me?

Hearing Gabrielle speak up both Melosa and Xena turned slightly to see the young woman standing not far behind the Conqueror for a moment before she walked up and stood with them.

MELOSA
Well Gabrielle I was just about to explain that before someone decided to start jumping to conclusions

The Amazon queen glanced over to Xena who scowled at the comment as Melosa returned her attention to Gabrielle as she continued.

MELOSA
The reason for us coming here was because we've heard of your upcoming wedding and due to you being an Amazon along with your position in the tribe as the next in line for the throne, there are a number of things that need to be discussed.

Xena folded her arms in front of her in slight annoyance.

XENA
Such as?

MELOSA
Well for one there's the fact that the two of you each hold a significant place among two different nations. With Gabrielle of course being next in line to rule the Amazons and then you as ruler over a very significant amount of this land as a whole.

GABRIELLE
Is that a problem?

MELOSA
Not inherently, no. However, giving the positions you each hold, there are things that will be needed to be sorted out. Because as you're aware, although our lands are located within the Conqueror's boarders, we Amazons are a sovereign nation.

XENA
And you're worried that once Gabrielle and I are married I can lay claim to the Amazons land due to my being her wife.

MELOSA
Precisely.

Even with knowing that the Amazon queen's thought process was technically valid, the Conqueror couldn't help but point out how absurd she felt the notion actually was.

XENA
Come on Melosa, you can't seriously think that I'd go to such elaborate measures just in the hopes that I could take your territory without breaking our treaty?

MELOSA
Not necessarily look this isn't personal, Conqueror, .but as a ruler yourself I'm certain you're aware there's still the obligation to ensure that my people stay safe whether any actual threat to them exists or not.

XENA
I suppose I can understand the position that you've found yourself in. However, regardless of whether you think my love for Gabrielle is completely genuine and I have every intention on making her my wife regardless of what you or anyone else has to say about it.

The Amazon scowled and was about to say something when Xena continued.

XENA
But that being said I also have no intention of just simply throwing away our treaty as well as whatever good will that's been built between myself and your people. So with that in mind I think we should be able to come up with something to prove that I have no anterior motivations for wanting to marry Gabrielle because she just happens to be an Amazon.

Melosa thought for a moment to consider the Conqueror's offer before speaking again.

MELOSA
I suppose giving all of your help that we've received from you for some time now, not to mention the fact that you basically single-handedly stopped the coup led by Velasca her loyalist from wreaking havoc on our village and people, it only seems fair that I give you my trust now in this. So alright Conqueror, I agree to speak with you on the matter of your union with one ours.

Xena smiled.

XENA
Wonderful. And once things are sorted out if you and your party are interested, I welcome you all to stay for the wedding. I'm sure Gabrielle would love to have some of her new Amazonian family in attendance for the ceremony and celebration.

Xena looked over to Gabrielle who looked up slightly at the taller woman standing beside her and smiled excitedly at the thought.

GABRIELLE
Really?!

Gabrielle turned her attention to Melosa.

GABRIELLE
Having you all here for the wedding would be wonderful. I'd love for you to stay for it if you can.

Melosa smiled at the young woman who in many ways reminded her of the daughter she lost. And it was the memory of the trust that Terreis placed in Gabrielle after she had tried to protect the young princess that had started Melosa's fondness for Gabrielle as she saw the young woman's kindness and compassion toward those around her. Although Melosa suspected that Gabrielle had that kind of effect on most of the people that she was around. As made evident by the extremely drastic transformation that had taken place in the Conqueror because of her.

MELOSA
Alright. Since we're already here as it is, if you'd like us to join you for your wedding, if everything is able to be sorted out between myself and the Conqueror, then we would be honored to stay for your celebration.

Gabrielle smiled.

GABRIELLE
That's great.

The young woman looked at Xena still wearing the happy expression on her face.

GABRIELLE
And just when I thought I couldn't possibly be more excited for our wedding day.

Seeing her soon-to-be bride so happy, Xena couldn't keep herself from smiling in response as she looked at Melosa and the other Amazons and invited them all inside and to be shown to their rooms that were soon made up for them.

XENA
Okay I think this should be something we can both live with. Hopefully this will ease any of your concerns.

Sitting at her desk in her study some time later, Xena slid the piece of paper she had just finished writing on over to Melosa who sat across from her and watched as the Amazon picked up the open scroll and read it over silently for a few moments.

MELOSA
Okay according to what we agreed upon, Gabrielle's status among the Amazons will remain unchanged unless she decides otherwise. And you vow to maintain neutrality in any Amazon political matter that may involve Gabrielle. And when it comes to her status among our people, unless she is within Amazon territory, Gabrielle will not be recognized as one of us, thus ensuring that no force's outside my people can use her status against us.

XENA
But her status will be instantly reinstated as soon as she steps foot on Amazon land with no questions asked.

MELOSA
Yes. And as for you if you are ever to accompany her into Amazon territory you are to come alone without any of your people and your title of Conqueror will hold no power for as long as you remain within our boarders.

XENA
Agreed.

MELOSA
And finally, any actions taken by you or anyone under your command that might be viewed as an act of aggression toward our people and will be viewed as an act of war that will be responded to as such.

XENA
I think that just about sums it up.

Melosa relaxed slightly in her chair.

MELOSA
Alright then since this does appear to cover everything regarding your and Gabrielle's standing both in and out of Amazon territory, I do believe that I've forgotten to offer you my official congratulations on your impending wedding.

The following day was just as busy as the previous ones had been as Gabrielle stood atop a small box after Cyrene took a step back from the young woman as she looked her over.

CYRENE
I know i still need to make a couple adjustments, but what do you think?

Gabrielle turned in place to look at her reflection in the mirror and gasped in amazement as she saw herself in the wedding dress that the older woman had spent countless hours making for her.

GABRIELLE
Oh Cyrene, it's beautiful. Far more than I could've ever imagined.

Gabrielle turned back to face Cyrene.

GABRIELLE
I don't know what to say, thank you so much. I can't imagine how much work went into making this.

Cyrene smiled.

CYRENE
Oh you don't need to thank me for this Gabrielle. I was more than happy to be able to do this for you. I'm glad you like it.

LILA
You really do look beautiful in that dress Gabrielle.

Gabrielle looked over to where Lila was sitting as Elle, Sara, Ephiny, Eponin and Solari who were scattered around the room voiced their liking of the dress as well.

LILA
Though it's still kind of hard for me to believe that you're really about to be married in just a matter of days.

GABRIELLE
I know. This all almost seems too good to be real. You're finally safe, I'm surrounded by the people who matter the most to me in this world, and I finally know exactly where I belong. I honestly don't remember the last time I've ever truly been this happy.

CYRENE
Well I know that Xena will be overjoyed to know you feel that way.

SOLARI
Given how well this dress turned out, I'm curious to see what the Conqueror's wedding dress looks like.

Cyrene looked at the Amazon and shrugged casually.

CYRENE
She doesn't have one. When I offered to make her one, Xena just said she had something else in mind that she planned on wearing and said to just focus on giving Gabrielle the dress of her dreams.

Gabrielle smiled.

GABRIELLE
Well you definitely did. And I can't wait until Xena sees it. You think she'll like it.

A number of women in the group laughed as Gabrielle gave them all a confused look.

GABRIELLE
What?

ELLE
Trust me Gabrielle, I really don't think you have to worry about her lordship not liking anything when it comes to you.

Gabrielle shook her head as she smiled.

GABRIELLE
Come on that's just not realistic. I'm sure that there are plenty of things about me that can bother Xena from time to time.

SARA
Sure, but not anything that really matters. I may not see the two of you together as often as a lot of the others around here, but based on what I hear from that husband of mine, it's obvious to anyone that the lord Conqueror thinks the world of you Gabrielle. So I have no doubt that she'll find you simply stunning when she sees you walking down the aisle regardless of what you have on.

Gabrielle could feel herself blush slightly in embarrassment as she shook her head and jokingly waved off the comment even though she knew full well that what Sara said was true.

GABRIELLE
(Joking tone) Okay fine I got it, you can all stop with the flattery already.

The young woman returned her attention to Cyrene.

GABRIELLE
But like I was saying before, the dress is perfect Cyrene, thank you.

CYRENE
Don't mention it. Now why don't you go change out of that, so I can make the last few adjustments, and then it'll be all set for your big day.

EPHINY
Well then if we're done here I think I'll head to my room for a bit before dinner.

EPONIN
Same here.

The two Amazons stood up as Elle leaned closer to Solari in an effort to avoid Ephiny and Eponin from hearing her.

ELLE
Those two aren't much for conversation are they.

Solari shrugged casually.

SOLARI
Eh, you get used to it.

Then also rising from her seat Solari stretched before looking at Gabrielle.

SOLARI
If you don't mind I think I'll get going to, I think I wanna take a look at the Conqueror's archives. I heard she some pretty interesting writings in there.

SARA
She certainly does.

The archivist stood and walked over to the Amazon.

SARA
I actually manage the archives so if you'd like I'd be happy to give you a tour of it.

SOLARI
That sounds wonderful. Thank you, uh Sara, was it?

The last to stand was Elle who with a slightly disappointed groan gave Gabrielle a smile.

ELLE
I should probably get going too. I gotta make sure that dinner will be done on time. I'll tell you running that kitchen has been quite a bit more work than I expected when I accepted her lordship's offer to take over after that old hag was discovered to be a spy. I'm just glad that I still have Cyrene to help out in there.

CYRENE
Speaking of which I'll be down to help shortly after I'm done here.

ELLE
Take your time Cyrene. I'm sure her lordship won't mind dinner taking a little longer to be done tonight once she sees Gabrielle in that beautiful dress you made.

So bidding a quick goodbye to everyone, soon the only ones left in the room was Gabrielle, Cyrene and Lila. And once Gabrielle was changed out of her wedding dress and back into her regular clothes, she offered to walk her sister back to her room where she spent most of her time when Gabrielle wasn't with her. The sister's spent the evening together until dinner was ready, and then the two joined everyone to eat.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) I can't believe it.

Sitting up in her bed, Gabrielle found herself unable to fall asleep as she gated out of the slightly open window as a cool spring breeze gently fluttered through the curtains in her room.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) In just a matter of hours it'll finally be our wedding day.

She smiled to herself.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) When I stop and think about everything that's happened since that day Draco came to Potidea it all almost seems like some kind of unbelievable story. But yet here I am. So much has changed since I met Xena.

Gabrielle chuckled slightly.

GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) It still seems crazy to think that everything turned out the way it did. I mean I remember being so scared of Xena at first I could hardly even look her in the eye. But then I began to see the woman behind the title and the rumors, and then she began to change. And while at on point I was looking for any way to possibly get away from Xena, now I never even wanna imagine going a single day without her.

Feeling her smile give way to a tired yawn, Gabrielle laid back down as she tried to calm her excitement and anticipation for a bit longer until she was finally able to fall asleep where she dreamed of the life ahead her once she was married to the one person she knew without a doubt that she was meant to be with forever. Meanwhile elsewhere in the keep, Xena stood out on her balcony as she looked up at the dark night sky doing some thinking of her own.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) So tomorrow's finally the day. Gabrielle, I could never understand what you see in me that caused you to trust me with your heart, but I what I do know is that I will do everything I can to make sure that I never do anything to make you regret that decision.

Xena lowered her head as the thoughts of the woman she was for far too long came to the front of her mind

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I know just being around me when I first bought you here must have been so hard for you. Even then I could see how much I frightened you. Not that you didn't have any reason to be. Giving the things I've done and what you've seen me do first hand, it still amazes me that you're somehow able to look past all of that to see the person that you've helped me become instead of the monster I was and would undoubtedly still be if not for you. I don't know what I could've possibly done to deserve you, but I will spend the rest of my life being forever grateful for whatever fate decided to bring you to me. You say I've changed, but you just can't see that it was only because of you that I am who I am today. And I swear that for whatever may lay ahead for our lives together, I will do everything within my power to make sure that I will always be someone you can be proud to stand beside.

Looking up again, Xena stood there thinking of the young woman she would very soon marry and let out a happy sigh as she turned around to see her wedding outfit hanging up on the far side of her bedroom.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) I guess I should probably get some sleep. Tomorrow's gonna be a busy day and I don't think Gabrielle will be too happy with me if I oversleep and miss my own weeding.

And with that thought, Xena went inside, shutting the door to the balcony behind her as she walked over to take one final look at her outfit that was set for the next day and blew out all but one of the candles that were lighting the room and carried the last remaining lit candle to her bedside table where soon after getting ready for bed, Xena climbed beneath the covers and blew out the small flame as she got comfortable and soon drifted off to sleep. Then with the rest of the keep fell mostly silent, the night would soon give way to the long awaited dawn that would not only become the start of the next chapter of Xena and Gabrielle's lives together as a couple, but would also soon bring about an unexpected end to of something that no one could have ever seen coming.

With the early morning sun hanging in a crystal blue sky, a knock on the door stirred Gabrielle from her slumber as she slowly opened her eyes and heard Elle's voice from the other side of the door.

ELLE
Gabrielle, are you awake?

Sleepily Gabrielle raised her head from her pillow.

GABRIELLE
(Sleepily tone) Huh?

ELLE
Myself, your sister and a few of the Amazons are going downstairs for breakfast before we start getting ready for the ceremony later. Did you wanna come with us?

Not fully awake yet, Gabrielle mumbled something incoherent before lay her head back down and getting comfortable to go back to sleep. She closed her eyes for a few moments before what Elle said began to finally register with Gabrielle as her eyes suddenly shot open, and she quickly sat up.

GABRIELLE
The wedding!

The keep was busier than usual as many people hustled about to finish the last minute setup for the ceremony that would be held later in the day as Gabrielle joined Lila, Elle and a number of others a quick breakfast before the group all made their way back up to their rooms to get ready for the wedding.

LILA
Wow Gabrielle, that dress really is beautiful.

Gabrielle smiled as she flattened out the few creases in the fabric from putting it on and looked at her sister.

GABRIELLE
Thanks. Cyrene really did do an amazing job on it, didn't she?

After making sure the dress was on right, Gabrielle turned around as her sister helped her close the back of her dress and tie the sting, before Gabrielle turned to look in the mirror. In her reflection stood a young woman in a beautiful long-sleeved, white dress that hung slightly off her shoulders with gold trim around the neck and shoulder line. It fit Gabrielle perfectly as it flowed down to just above her ankles with a material that almost seemed to sparkle when the light hit it.

LILA
Well now that we have you in your dress, come sit down, and I'll help you do your hair.

Meanwhile with a small thud, Xena stomped her boot the rest of the way on before she stood up from the edge of her bed and walked over to her mirror to inspect her appearance as she heard a knock on her door.

XENA
Come in.

Hearing the door open Xena called to her visitor to tell them she was in her bedroom as she returned to making sure everything was in place.

CYRENE
Oh now don't you look lovely.

Hearing her mother, Xena turned and smiled.

XENA
Thanks. I know you were a bit disappointed when I told you I didn't need you to make me a dress.

The older woman smiled as she walked up her daughter.

CYRENE
That's okay Xena. It's your day and as long as you're happy it doesn't matter to me what you're wearing.

Cyrene reached up to help Xena adjust the beaded circlet that sat atop her head and stepped back to look at the Conqueror who along with the headwear, wore a sleeveless top that was completely covered with dozens of small, flat, silver, metal circles that almost looked like coins. On her lower half Xena had on a pair of dark blue pants that had a decorative pattern around the waist and who's bottom part of the legs were tucked into her boots that came mid-way up her calf.

CYRENE
And besides I think what you have on suites you perfectly.

Xena smiled as she shared a brief hug with the older woman.

XENA
Thanks.

The two separated.

XENA
But there is still one more thing I need.

Turning around, Xena walked over to her bed and picked up a long-sleeved dark blue, velvet cloak-like robe with a hood that was lined with golden silk on the inside as well as the bottom third of the loose fitting sleeves. Once she put it on, Xena turned to face Cyrene once again as the older woman smiled.

CYRENE
It's perfect.

Mirroring her mother's expression Xena took one last look at her reflection before turning back toward Cyrene.

XENA
Well I guess all that's left to do now is to actually go get married.

And with that Xena walked over to Cyrene who was also dressed up for the event and offered to woman her arm as Cyrene accepted the gesture and looped her own arm around her daughter's.

CYRENE
(Joking tone) We wouldn't want to keep your lovely bride waiting after all.

Xena let out a small chuckle as the mother and daughter walked out of Xena's bedroom together to make their way downstairs.

XENA
No I suppose we wouldn't.

It was just a short time later as Xena stood at the end of a corridor on the first floor of the keep as she took a deep breath to try and calm the nerves that had suddenly surfaced when she got there.

LEONIDAS
Last second prepositions, my lord?

Xena looked over her shoulder and smirked as her lieutenant that was dressed in a set of ceremonial armor approached her and Cyrene who was standing beside her.

XENA
Something like that.

Stopping beside the two women, Leonidas greeted Cyrene as he complimented the older woman's appearance for the wedding before offering his appreciation for the Conqueror's outfit as well that got a sarcastic head shake from the dark haired woman.

XENA
Is everything prepared?

LEONIDAS
Yes my lord. We're all set to begin whenever you're ready.

Xena took one more calming breath as she looked at the door in front of her and smiled as she thought of what now laid just on the other side.

XENA
Well we can't just stand here all day. So I suppose there's no better time than now to do this.

With a smile and quick bow of his head, Leonidas walked by the two women as he opened the door and stepped outside to give the signal to begin. It was only a moment later that soft music began to play and the Conqueror's lieutenant stepped back into the doorway as he stood at attention to the side and gave Xena a small nod to say that everything was as it should be. Xena looked to her mother and the two smiled for a moment before walking forward to stand next to Leonidas who offered his arm to Xena and after Xena taking the gentlemanly offer, and still having her other arm linked with Cyrene, Xena was walked out into the sunlight as everyone who was in attendance for the wedding fell silent as they rose from their seats that sat on either side of a straight walkway when they saw the Conqueror come into view and slowly make her way up the walkway to stand under a large arch that had been set up on a small platform at the front of the crowd and was made of wood and had ribbon, flowers and other plant life woven throughout it. Once Xena was standing below the arch, Leonidas politely escorted Cyrene off to the side and to their seats as Melosa walked over to stand in the center of the arch and she and Xena exchanged nods to greet each other before they looked down the isle and stood waiting for the second participant in the ceremony to arrive.

EPHINY
Looks like it's time Gabrielle. Are you ready?

A peaceful smile found its way to Gabrielle's face as she pictured the woman that stood outside waiting for her and had to silently remind herself that as much as it might have felt like it, this all wasn't just some magical dream.

GABRIELLE
Yeah.

Gabrielle paused for a moment when she felt her sister's hand taking hers, and she looked at Lila as the sister's shared a smile as Gabrielle continued.

GABRIELLE
Honestly I don't think I've ever been more ready to do anything in my life.

MELOSA
Then let's not keep you or Xena waiting any longer.

The Amazon queen walked to stand in front of the two young women as she gave the signal for Ephiny and the other Amazons with them to begin to file out as she followed shortly behind and Gabrielle and Lila hear the crowds excited response before walking out together behind her and followed the trail of Amazonian women down the aisle where the line split up and gave Gabrielle and Xena the first view of one another since the day before as Gabrielle was led up to where the Conqueror stood and the two joined hands as Lila and the Amazons walked to take their seats.

XENA
You look beautiful.

Xena smiled as she and Gabrielle stood facing one another, lacing their hands together as they gazed lovingly into one another's eyes for a moment before hearing Melosa speak as the Amazon began the ceremony.

MELOSA
What a beautiful day it is for a beautiful celebration...

The crowd went completely quiet upon hearing the Amazon queen begin to speak while Xena and Gabrielle turned their attention to the woman as she continued.

MELOSA
Today we gather in a ceremony that will mix both Amazon traditions with the marriage customs of the Amazons as well as your standard traditions as we celebrate love and the union of two becoming one. Of Gabrielle, princess of the Amazons and Xena, the lord Conqueror of Greece.

As small round of applause came from a number of people in the audience as Melosa paused for a moment to prepare for the next step and Xena and Gabrielle looked at each other and smiled before returning their focus to the Amazon when she continued.

MELOSA
Gabrielle, do you enter into this union freely and of your own accord? And do you understand the seriousness and impact of going into this marriage to someone who is not a part of the Amazon people.

Having already been informed by Xena while the two leaders were still discussing the details of the new treaty that Melosa and Xena had previously discussed a few days earlier and agreeing to the stipulations before the deal was even signed, Gabrielle glanced oveer to the Conqueror and smiled at the woman as she answered.

GABRIELLE
Yes.

Hearing Melosa carry on after giving her response, Gabrielle turned her eyes back to the Amazon in front of her.

MELOSA
And Xena, do you also enter into this union freely and of your own accord? And do you understand the seriousness and impact of going into this marriage to not only woman who is not only a part of the Amazon people, but Amazonian royalty that will likely one day take the position of queen to the Amazon nation

XENA
I do.

Melosa continued.

MELOSA
Alright now to continue I believe that you both have your own words that you want to say. So, Gabrielle you may go ahead and go first.

In response Gabrielle and Xena turned to face one another as they joined hands and the younger woman began.

GABRIELLE
Xena, When I first met you I never would've imagined that we'd be standing here today. But now that we are I have no doubt that there isn't anywhere I'd rather be right now than standing here with you. Before finding you, I always felt so incomplete, like there was this part deep inside of me that just felt empty, like no one really saw me for the person I was instead of who they wanted me to be. But Xena when I'm with you, it's like that empty loneliness I'd felt for all that time was never there. You see me for who I am and everything that I hope to be, and I can never tell you how much that means to me.

Gabrielle felt tears of joy being to slowly fill her eyes as she continued.

GABRIELLE
Back in my village I used to dream of the day that I could somehow break away from the small, closed world that I knew I would never fit into. But since finding you and living here, I've seen and learned more than I ever dreamed. And though the road to get here wasn't an easy one to travel, if I woke up tomorrow to find that I was back where this all started, I would do it all again in a heartbeat if it meant that I would make it back to standing here with you right now. Because there isn't anywhere else in the world that I'd rather be then here with you. Which is exactly where I finally found that I know I belong. And for that I will always love you, Xena.

Feeling unbelievably touched by Gabrielle's words, Xena wiped a couple tears from her eyes as the younger woman finished her heartfelt speech and the Conqueror smiled as Melosa spoke up again.

MELOSA
That was lovely Gabrielle. Xena...

The Amazon queen looked to Xena next as she saw the woman trying to compose herself.

MELOSA
You have something you wanted to say as well.

XENA
Right.

Taking a quick moment to let her emotions settle a little, Xena took a breath before looking into Gabrielle's eyes and began to speak.

XENA
Gabrielle, I don't really know where to even begin. Or what I can say that could ever fully express just how much you mean to me. When you came into my life I was so lost in my own darkness that I never imagined I'd find a way out. Not to say that I even wanted to at the time. But then when I saw your light, I knew that I had to follow it, but I never imagined that by doing so it would lead me to standing here today.

Xena paused as she saw a small tear escape the corner of Gabrielle's eye and reached up to gently wiped it away before softly caressing the young woman's cheek with her thumb.

XENA
I know you don't think it's true, but the only reason I was ever able to make it out of that darkness is because of you. The kindness you show to everyone around you, including myself will never fail to amaze me. Because while I know I could never hope to deserve it, I will forever be grateful to you for the love and compassion you've given me. I don't know how but inspire of everything I am and all the unforgivable things I've done, you're still able to look beyond all of that to see the person that you led me to become. Even with all the hardships and pain you've had to endure, it's through your ability to still somehow remain unchanged at the very core of your being that allows you to still look for and see the good in the world as well as the people around you that caused me to look deep inside myself and truly see what I had become. It was only then that I finally saw that the person I was looking at was someone who was completely unrecognizable from who I had set out to be so long ago. And was someone who because of you I knew I no longer wanted to be. So I know while it may seem to everyone else that during everything that's happened since you've come into my life that I was the one that had at multiple points come to your rescue. The truth is Gabrielle, that it was you who was actually the one saving me.

Finishing her short speech Xena took Gabrielle's hand and raised it to her lips while Gabrielle stood speechless as she tried to stop the joyful tears that were running down her cheeks as Melosa waited a few moments while Xena wiped Gabrielle's tears away and the young woman gathered herself.

GABRIELLE
That was beautiful Xena.

XENA
I meant every bit of it. Although no words could ever come close to being anywhere near as beautiful as you.

Gabrielle smiled as she looked away and shook her head slightly.

GABRIELLE
(Half Joking tone) Come on Xena, you keep saying stuff like that, and you're gonna make me cry again.

MELOSA
Well we don't want that. Now if the two of you have said everything you wanted, we can carry on with the rest of the ceremony.

Hearing Melosa speak, Gabrielle and Xena returned their attention to the Amazonian woman showing that they were ready to continue.

MELOSA
Now if you would please each of you hold out an arm in front of you and join your hands together.

Following Melosa's instructions, Gabrielle and Xena took one another's hand and held them out in front of them as the Amazon queen turned around and picked up one of the few items that sat on the small table behind her before turning back to face the other two women who saw her holding a small, thin, worn length of rope that she then held stretched out between her hands as she raised it up for the audience to see as she spoke.

MELOSA
A rope like this...

While continuing to speak, Melosa took one end of the small rope and loosely tied it around Gabrielle's wrist.

MELOSA
in our tribe represents the bond between two people...

Carrying on in her task, the Amazon queen took the other end of the rope and like she had done with Gabrielle, put it around the Conqueror's wrist as well before taking hold of the middle section of the rope.

MELOSA
However that bond, like a rope that has been left to weather, if it isn't cared for, can be broken.

Suddenly the woman quickly pulled on the thin rope in opposite directions which caused it to snap before she removed the now two separate pieces of rope from Gabrielle and Xena's wrists and held them up for everyone to see and understand the symbolism before turning around for a moment and picked up another item. Then after facing everyone once again, Melosa held up the item to reveal it to be another shot piece of rope, that was a good deal thicker and in far better shape in comparison to the first.

MELOSA
But if you pay attention and maintain your relationship properly...

Like she had with the thin rope, Melosa put one end around Xena's wrist and the other around Gabrielle's. And again like she had before with the thin one, pulled on the middle section of the thicker rope, but unlike the previous one, the new piece of rope didn't break.

MELOSA
It can remain strong and enduring no matter the strain that this life may put on it.

Letting go of the rope, Melosa turned to the small table one more time and took the last remaining small items before turning back toward Xena and Gabrielle.

MELOSA
I hold here what in accordance to Amazon tradition will become the symbols of your love and the commitment that you've made to one another. That when worn will hopefully serve to remind you of the love you have for each other.

The queen of the Amazons held up two identical bracelets that were beautifully and clearly painstakingly carefully crafted out of a thick, sturdy wood with matching intricate designs that included the symbols for each of their names woven together. Then she handed one of each of them to the two women in front of her.

MELOSA
Next I hold a pair of rings that in the lord Conqueror's kingdom not unlike the bracelets that we Amazons use, has become the symbol of two people's devotion to one another. So like the bracelets, may they also be a reminder to always hold true to the love you share here today.

After holding up the rings that were made to match the bracelets for a moment, Melosa gave the Conqueror and the younger woman each one of the rings before having the two face one another.

MELOSA
Gabrielle, do you take Xena to be your wife and from this day on swear to keep the vow you've made here today to always love and care for her for the rest of both this life and beyond.

Gabrielle smiled as she stood looking into Xena's eyes and answered.

GABRIELLE
I do.

Having both of them previously been told what to do next a few days prior, Gabrielle held out her hand as Xena slipped the bracelet on to the young woman's wrist before placing the ring on Gabrielle's finger. And once she was done, Melosa repeated her question to the Conqueror.

MELOSA
And Xena, do you take Gabrielle to be your wife and from this day on swear to keep the vow you've made here today to always love and care for her for the rest of both this life and beyond.

With both women still looking at each other, Xena replied.

XENA
I do.

Repeating the same action as Xena just a moment ago, Gabrielle slid both the bracelet and ring on to the woman in front of her, and the Amazon queen spoke for one final time as the long anticipated ceremony came to its conclusion.

MELOSA
Then with the blessings of the god's and everyone in attendance here today, I officially announce Gabrielle of Potidaea, princess to the Amazons and Xena, the lord Conqueror of Greece wife's for life.

And with that announcement, the crowd that had been sitting quietly watching the ceremony cheered as Xena put her arms around Gabrielle and held her in strong embrace while their lips met for a meaningful and passionate kiss that to the two of them seemed to go on for a blissful eternity before they separated only a few moments later and Gabrielle looked up at the taller woman.

GABRIELLE
I love you Xena.

XENA
And I love you. More than I can ever say. I only hope that some day I can find a way to show you the depths of my love for you that I know my words alone could never express.

The two kissed once again before the Conqueror turned to the audience.

XENA
Well now that we've taken care of business here, I believe it's time for a celebration.

With the audience cheering in response to what she had just said, Xena offered her arm to Gabrielle and then walking arm in arm the newly-weds made their way back down the aisle and inside where everyone soon followed and a festive celebration that was filled with a rather large number of congratulatory comments to the happy couple. Along with an extensive banquet of good food and drink, lively music and even better company as the lively party carried on for the remainder of the day and ran a decent way into the night. And as it grew late and while the celebration looked to be showing no signs of winding down any time soon, after the long day and the hectic goings-on that had taken over the keep for some time, wanting to share some time with just each other, Xena and Gabrielle slipped away from the party and walked quietly together around the keep as they just simply enjoyed being with one another before eventually making their way to Xena's private quarters where they would spend the rest of what had been an unforgettable day and would soon become an even more magical night.

It had grown late as the lively post wedding celebration still going strong downstairs faded from mind as Xena opened the door to her private quarters.

XENA
Ah nothing like returning to the comfort of your own space after a long day.

She turned to Gabrielle and smiled as without warning she scooped her new wife up in her arms and got a quick surprised yell from the young woman before let out a small laugh as Xena carried her inside and into her bedroom.

GABRIELLE
(Laughing) Now what was that all about?

Xena shrugged as she let the young woman down.

XENA
It's just some silly little thing people do where after they get married the new bride is carried over the threshold of their home but since we never left I figured carrying you in here would have to do.

GABRIELLE
Oh that's an interesting tradition.

Gabrielle paused as a thought came to mind before continuing.

GABRIELLE
So in that case should I have to carry you too. Right?

Gabrielle looked Xena up and down for a moment as took inventory of the height difference between them as well as the fact that due to Xena's years of combat experience, while still very feminine had a much sturdier build than the younger woman, and Gabrielle was admittedly not the most physically adapt person. So Gabrielle knew that doing something as simple as carrying Xena even a couple feet wouldn't exactly be an easy task for her as the Conqueror smirked at the comment having already been well aware of all of this.

XENA
(Joking tone) You're welcome to try.

Knowing that the woman wasn't serious Gabrielle just smiled as she shook her head and Xena chuckled.

XENA
Well anyway it's been quite the day so why don't we go get a little more comfortable.

GABRIELLE
I'd like that.

Xena held her arm out for Gabrielle to take.

XENA
Then shall we?

Smiling, Gabrielle took the Conqueror's arm and Xena led them into her bedroom where they settled down among the lare bed of pillows that were always set up at the foot of Xena's actual bed.

GABRIELLE
Today was really beautiful wasn't it Xena?

XENA
It really was something.

Xena sat leaning back against a couple pillows while she gently and idly ran her fingers through Gabrielle's golden hair as the young woman sat nestled in her arms.

GABRIELLE
Everyone worked so hard to get everything ready, and it all turned out just so perfect.

XENA
I'm happy it was everything you hoped it would be.

GABRIELLE
It really was and so much more

Gabrielle looked up at the other woman.

GABRIELLE
Thank you Xena, today was more than I ever could've dreamed.

XENA
Gabrielle...

Xena sat up completely as she took Gabrielle with her and gently reached up to turn the young woman's face to look at her.

XENA
I thought I told you before, you never need to thank me for anything. It's only because of you that after being lost in the darkness for so long that I was finally able to find my way again. You've given me a new beginning in life. A new reason to live. You've given me so much that nothing I do could ever be enough to measure up to what you've done for me.

Xena lightly stroked her thumb over Gabrielle's cheek as she continued.

XENA
Gabrielle, all I want is for you to be happy. I would give you the world if you asked. So having everything that went into today in order to make sure you were happy pales in comparison to the lengths I would go for you. Everything I have and everything I am is yours.

Xena smiled.

XENA
You are the most important and dearest thing to me in all this world. I love you Gabrielle. More than I ever thought I could love anyone. I never wanna imagine a life without you.

GABRIELLE
... Xena.

Deeply touched once again by the Conqueror's words, Gabrielle found herself at a loss for words and instead leaned in as she placed a light kiss on Xena's lips and remained close after with her forehead resting against the other woman's as she linked her hand into Xena's.

GABRIELLE
I love you.

With a soft smile, the Conqueror raised her free hand and softly held the side of the of young woman's face as the two peered deeply into one another's eyes for a long moment before their eyes closed, and their lips slowly met once again as the kiss lingered slightly longer than the one prior. And was gradually followed by another and then another. And each slow caress of their lips becoming progressively more impassioned than the others before it. Becoming lost in the moment, Xena let go of Gabrielle's hand that she had still been holding and slowly glided her palm up the young woman's arm and around to the upper part of her back and lightly pressed Gabrielle against her as the Conqueror moved her lips from the other woman's and began letting them trail down her neck. While feeling her long held desire for the woman in her arms growing more intense by the second as it had now become a full-fledged hunger, Xena continued further downward as her lips gently brushed the top of Gabrielle's chest that was left uncovered by her dress for a moment before she began to leave a series of light presses of her lips on to the soft skin there too until she heard Gabrielle say her name after having not registered what she had been saying when she said Xena's name a few times before and quickly pulled away when she realized what she was doing as she let go of the younger woman and moved back from her.

XENA
I'm sorry. I don't know what came over me. I just... lost myself for a moment. I know that's no escuse, but I didn't mean to... Or what I mean is I shouldn't have just...

GABRIELLE
Xena...

Gabrielle smiled as moved her hand to cover the older woman's.

GABRIELLE
It's okay.

XENA
No it isn't. I shouldn't have assumed that just because we're married now, you'd be okay me doing that. And for that I'm so sorry. I swear to you Gabrielle I would never want to make you uncomfortable by doing anything to you or touching you in any way that you weren't okay with or don't want.

Looking into Xena's eyes and seeing the amount of remorse and concern on her face, Gabrielle made an attempt to alleviate the woman's worry.

GABRIELLE
But it really is okay. You weren't doing anything to make me uncomfortable at all. 

XENA
Are you sure?

Xena softly held her hand to Gabrielle's cheek.

XENA
Because I don't want you to think that just because it's our wedding night that you do something you aren't ready to do. Or that I'll be disappointed or upset if you don't want to be with me in that way.

Gabrielle smiled as she laid her hand over the Conqueror's.

GABRIELLE
I know and I'm sure. I love you Xena and I wanna share my life with you. And that includes everything that comes with it.

The full realization of what they were talking about finally taking over completely and her imagination beginning to take her to some fairly sensual places as a result, the young woman felt herself begin to blush slightly as she continued.

GABRIELLE
Even the things I haven't done before.

Understanding, Xena gave a soft smile as she leaned in and placed a light kiss on Gabrielle's lips before taking her new wife by the hand gently pulled her to stand as she led her the short distance to the bed where they shared another kiss. Still keeping their lips pressed together, Xena let her hands roam down Gabrielle's sides and then up her back where she found the string behind Gabrielle's neck that tied her dress closed and pulled it causing it to come undone. Then pulling back just a little, Xena took hold of the back of the dress and slowly pulled it forward as she helped Gabrielle slip her arms out of her wedding gown before sliding it down the length of her body before standing back up and losing her breath as she laid her eyes on the woman she now saw as being the most beautiful thing she'd ever seen as the candlelight seemed to illuminate the now nearly nude woman iin front of her.

GABRIELLE
What?

Xena smiled.

XENA
You really are so beautiful Gabrielle.

Kissing her again, Xena then slowly let her hands climb up Gabrielle's stomach and smooth over her breasts as she got a pleasing and tantalizing sigh in response while she continued to gently massage the smallish peeks for a few moments before finally pulling her lips away and moving her hands down to the other woman's underwear and crouched as she slid them down and let Gabrielle step out of them before running her fingers up the young woman's leg as she stood back up to let her hand stop over Gabrielle's mound where she lightly let her fingers very lightly begin to massage up and down the young woman's femininity and heard a soft, delighted sigh escape Gabrielle's lips as she continued for a couple more moments and Gabrielle began to feel a slightly warm, tingling sensation starting to build within her depths and grabbed onto Xena's arm as she began to breathe just slightly harder. Seeing this, the Conqueror learned close and spoke softly into her wife's ear as she took her hand away.

XENA
(Soft tone) Lay down.

Doing as requested, Gabrielle laid in the bed while she watched the Conqueror shrug off her outer robe and let it just fall to the floor behind her before proceeding to strip away the rest of her clothing as well. And when she stood completely bare beside the bed, Gabrielle gazed up at Xena's naked form and found herself silently wondering if the woman standing before her was actually a goddess as despite the scar on Xena's chest that was left behind by Draco, Gabrielle couldn't help but be somewhat amazed on how the woman could possibly be even more unbelievably stunning than what Gabrielle could have ever pictured.

XENA
(Slightly teasing tone) I'm guessing from the look on your face that you like what you see.

Seeing the almost wide-eyed look on Gabrielle's face that was swiftly followed by the younger woman quickly averting her eyes when she was caught staring, the Conqueror smiled as she moved to kneel on the bed beside Gabrielle as she gently turned the young woman's face to look at her again.

XENA
You know you don't have to feel embarrassed because you find someone attractive. Least of all your wife.

GABRIELLE
I get that in my head, but I just... Xena I've never done... this before and...

Gabrielle paused not knowing how to word what she wanted to say but didn't get to continue before Xena leaned over and gave her a soft kiss before pulling back just slightly.

XENA
That's okay, I know.

Xena gave Gabrielle a reassuring smile.

XENA
Don't worry Gabrielle, you'll do just fine. Trust me.

GABRIELLE
(Uncertain tone) Okay.

XENA
Now just relax. We'll take it slow, and you just do whatever feels right. Okay?

Gabrielle nodded and the Conqueror moved to kneel over her as they shared another passionate kiss and the dark haired woman reached down between them and softly skimmed her fingers along Gabrielle's center, her excitement despite her minor nervousness made evident by the quiet, but clearly satisfied inhale Xena heard the young woman make when she touched Gabrielle in her most intimate area for the first time where she could already feel the level of moisture between the blonde woman's legs. Continuing to lightly stroke her fingers along Gabrielle's core, the Conqueror lowered her lips to kiss the woman beneath her and began planting. Iight kisses along the young woman's neck and down to her chest where she layed a series of soft kisses on each of the soft mounds before letting her lips just barely graze Gabrielle's nipple and received a small, soft mew from the other woman in response. Then after a moment the Conqueror lightly ran the tip of her tongue over the small pink peak a couple of times before taking it into her mouth causing Gabrielle to take a small blissful inhale as she felt Xena begin to suck. Her mouth occupied by Gabrielle's breast, Xena continued lightly teasing her fingers up and down the young woman's feminine treasure as she took slow, gentle stokes before gradually beginning to press just slightly firmer as she went on.

GABRIELLE
(Blissful sigh) Xena.

Feeling both her desire and excitement increasing, Gabrielle parted her legs further as her nervousness had been completely forgotten, and she let the sensations of Xena's loving touch fully occupy her whole being. Without even thinking, the young woman's hips began to roll in response to the Conqueror's still light petting of her sex. As she was hearing the clear signs that Gabrielle was enjoying what she was doing, Xena could no longer ignore her own burning hunger for the young woman beneath her that she had been suppressing for so long it was taking nearly everything the Conqueror had to maintain the slow paced approach she had felt would be best for their first time together and not instead completely surrender to the ravenous desire that she had for the other woman. Because while she may have done such a thing in the past with whomever she had chosen to share her bed with, when it now came to Gabrielle, like everything else, Xena wanted the experience to be different. Not only because she didn't want to take things to quickly and risk overwhelming the inexperienced young woman, but because where it had been before, with Gabrielle it wasn't just simply about the act of sex itself. Now it was more about what Xena felt within the deepest depths of her heart and soul whenever she thought of the young woman and how she could possibly convey what she was feeling. And only hoped that her unyielding love for Gabrielle would be felt by the other woman through her actions both then and in everything else she would do going forward.

XENA
(Soft tone) I love you so much Gabrielle

Kissing Gabrielle as she paused in her stroking of the woman's core, Xena moved to straddle one of Gabrielle's legs as she began to slowly grind her womanhood against the younger woman. A low, satisfying groan then escaped the Conqueror's throat as she leaned her head back and rocked back and forth, working her area of need against the Gabrielle who could feel the slickness of the Conqueror's avid sexual craving being spread along her thigh. Not becoming too caught up in the increasingly gratifying sensation building as she continued to press her center along Gabrielle's leg, Xena resumed her fingers gliding up and down the young woman's femininity. Gabrielle let out a blissful whine as she felt Xena's hand continue to run her fingers up her center and back down again what she could only later think to describe as an almost warm, tingling feeling begin to build within her depths as her breathing quickened, and she dug her toes into the blankets that she clung to even tighter. Able to see that the young woman appeared to be nearing her climax, Xena sped her strokes up a little as Gabrielle moaned her name. The Conqueror kept that pace for a little bit while maintaining the steady rhythm of her hips as she continued forging her own sex against Gabrielle as she could tell it likely wouldn't be much longer until the young woman reached her climax. It was then that Xena paused in her efforts to find her own release and Gabrielle felt the Conqueror's hand cease in the vertical strokes over her center only to feel her quickly find and begin to roll her fingers over her little bundle of nerves that caused the young woman to throw her head back as it felt as though her core had been set a blaze. Keeping up the small circles she was doing against Gabrielle's little bud, the Conqueror then resumed pressing herself against Gabrielle as hearing the younger woman's elated cries stirred her own desire even further, and she proceeded to then move with an increased vigor than she had before. She rapidly thrust her hips as she pressed her womanhood harder against Gabrielle's thigh as her orgasm began its fast approach. While the Conqueror moved harder against Gabrielle, the young woman's focus was utterly consumed by the undescribable sensation that had built to fever pitch. Until the sensation grew to become so intense from feeling the unrelenting manipulating of her little bundle of nerves that the Conqueror had intently focused on, and Gabrielle felt something within her give way as her back arched off the bed and her body stiffened while she felt her depths rapidly pulse and a nearly indescribable warmth flooded throughout her core. In response a euphoric cry erupted from the woman's throat, as seeing Gabrielle achieve her release brought the Conqueror up to the edge of her own orgasm as she stilled her hand that remained nestled between the Gabrielle's legs and began to relentlessly propel herself back and forth on the younger woman's thigh. Making what sounded almost like an animalistic growl as her carnal desires completely took over, the Conqueror took her hand away from Gabrielle's center as she clenched the fabric that laid on the bed under them and lowered herself to lay on top of the other women while she pushed her womanhood faster and harder against Gabrielle's leg as the sensation continued to build, bringing Xena ever closer to the edge of ecstasy until she pushed hard once more and let out a rapturous yell as an earth shaking wave of pleasure ripped through the Conqueror as she came hard, feeling her nether lands convulse while she jolted her hips forward a few more times until her high began to subside and Xena laid over Gabrielle motionless for a few moments until she came down from her high and caught her breath before lowering her lips to the other woman's, leaving a soft but meaningful kiss before gently brushing a couple strands of golden hair from Gabrielle's face.

XENA
(Soft tone) You okay?

Gabrielle nodded.

GABRIELLE
I'm okay.

She smiled up at the dark haired woman.

GABRIELLE
That was so wonderful Xena. Thank you for making it so special.

A light smile crossed the Conqueror's lips.

XENA
I'm happy I could make your first time feel so meaningful.

After moving from atop the blonde to lay beside her, Xena gathered the young woman into a loving, tender embrace and softly kissed her.

GABRIELLE
I love you Xena.

The Conqueror smiled.

XENA
Not as much as I do you.

It was just a short time later as Gabrielle was snuggled up against Xena, wrapped in the Conqueror's arms while she slept peacefully beneath the blanket that Xena had pulled over them, as in the darkness of the room, the Conqueror contently watched her as she found herself deep in thought and as a result was finding it hard to sleep.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) After everything I've seen. Everything I've done and the pain I've caused. Who could've imagined that the long, dark road I've walked for all these years would end up leading me to you? So much has happened since you've come into my life. Things that I never thought could. And yet because of you, Gabrielle and the way you were able to reach me in the deepest depths of my darkness when no one else could, I'm beginning to believe that just about anything can be possible.

Smiling, Xena turned her eyes to the ceiling and a few moments later slowly let her heavy lids close as she slipped into a deep, calm sleep with one last waking thought echoing through her mind.

XENA
(Thinking to herself) And who knows, just maybe thanks to you Gabrielle, it can be.

With the sun shining through the window, Xena sat back in her chair while looking over the piece of paper she was holding when there was a knock on the door to her study.

XENA
Come in.

The Conqueror raised her eyes from what she was reading as the door opened, and a couple people walked in. One of whom brought a smile to the woman's face upon seeing them.

LEONIDAS
Look who I ran into on my way here.

The Conqueror's lieutenant smiled at Gabrielle who was standing next to him as he politely gestured for her to continue further into the room before him. As the two made their way toward Xena, the woman stood and walked out from behind her desk to meet Gabrielle as the two shared a kiss before Xena offered Gabrielle to take a seat as she ignored the smile she saw on Leonidas' face and returned to her place behind her desk as Leonidas spoke.

LEONIDAS
You wanted to see me my lord?

XENA
Would I have called you in here if I didn't?

Leonidas smirked.

LEONIDAS
No, I suppose not.

Xena sat down as the man continued.

LEONIDAS
So what did you need my lord?

Xena placed her hand on a large stack of papers and scrolls that sat on her desk.

XENA
A few things, actually.

Seeing all the papers on the Conqueror's desk, Gabrielle stood up.

GABRIELLE
I can see your pretty busy right now, so I'll let you get back to work and see you a little later. Okay?

The young woman began to turn to leave before stopping when she heard Xena call after her.

XENA
Gabrielle wait a minute.

Gabrielle turned back to face the other woman.

XENA
I'm actually glad you're here. This'll save me some time from having to talk to you separately later.

A curious expression crossed the younger woman's face as Xena motioned for her to sit back down, and she sunk back into the chair.

GABRIELLE
Is everything okay?

The Conqueror gave her a reassuring smile.

XENA
Don't worry, everything's just fine. I know I probably should've spoken with you about this sooner, but in order to prevent any rumors from going around and potentially causing any widespread panic and confusion, I wanted to make sure I had everything in order before I said anything.

GABRIELLE
What do you mean? Xena you've been acting distracted for weeks now. Ever since our wedding. You've been trying to hide it, but I can tell that something's been on your mind.

A look of concern formed on the young woman's face as she continued.

GABRIELLE
Please Xena, whatever it is you can tell me.

Seeing the worry in Gabrielle's eyes, Xena reached over the desk Xena put out her hand for her wife to take, and held it in her firm yet gentle grip.

XENA
I'm sorry if I've been making you worry Gabrielle. That's the last thing I wanted to do. But while I know I haven't said anything, you're right. I have had some things on my mind lately.

Letting go of Gabrielle's hand, the Conqueror sat back as her attention returned to both Gabrielle and Leonidas.

XENA
Which is exactly why I'm here all of this here.

The Conqueror motioned to the scrolls and other papers on her desk as Gabrielle glanced over to Leonidas hoping he would know what Xena could have been talking about but only got a look that told her that the lieutenant was apparently just as much in the dark about what the woman was doing as she was.

LEONIDAS
Then if you don't mind, my lord, much like the little one, I'm curious to know what exactly all of this is about?

Xena's focus turned to Leonidas.

XENA
Well to start, I need these to be distributed immediately.

The Conqueror briefly scanned through the scrolls for a moment as she separated them into the piles

XENA
The smaller group needs to be sent out while the rest are for the people here at the keep. Including one for you too,

Xena picked up a scroll and casually presented it to Leonidas.

LEONIDAS
For me, my lord?

The man curiously looked at the rolled up paper for a moment before accepting the scroll and opening it to read in silence. Once he had finished reading what was written, Leonidas looked up from the scroll with a very shocked and confused expression

LEONIDAS
What is this?

Xena shrugged casually.

XENA
Exactly what it says.

Leonidas looked back at the paper to make sure he had read it correctly before and after eeing he had, slowly shook his head in disbelief.

LEONIDAS
My lord this is so generous of you.

He returned his attention to Xena as Gabrielle sat quietly as she looked on and tried to follow what was happening.

LEONIDAS
I can't accept this.

Xena smiled as she gave the man a friendly pat on his shoulder.

XENA
Sure you can. You're a good man Leonidas. Throughout all my years of leading an army you've served me far better than any other soldier I've ever had. You deserve every bit of what's in that scroll and more

The man stood there near speechless for a moment before he was able to speak again.

LEONIDAS
I don't know what to say. Thank you. But I don't understand why are you giving this to me?

XENA
(Half joking tone) Well I had to do something with all this.

Still smiling, Xena returned to her seat.

LEONIDAS
I'm afraid I don't understand.

The Conqueror reclined in her chair.

XENA
What do you think is in the rest of those scrolls?

A look of shock and disbelief appeared on Leonidas' face as like Gabrielle, the lieutenant suddenly became very concerned that something was wrong.

LEONIDAS
What are you saying?

XENA
It's just simple logic really. None of this will do me much good if I'm not here.

LEONIDAS
Not here? Were you planning on taking a trip of some kind soon?

XENA
I suppose you could say that.

Now feeling more baffled than ever by what was going on in Xena's head, both Leonidas and Gabrielle found themselves at a complete loss for what to think.

LEONIDAS
Okay. But I'm afraid I'm still confused as to why your taking a leave from the keep would require you to give away everything that you've worked and fought to build for all this time. I know mean no offense when I say this, but that just doesn't seem to make very much sense my lord.

XENA
Actually Leonidas it all makes very perfect sense. After all once I leave why would I need to keep this place intact when I have no intention of coming back.

LEONIDAS/ GABRIELLE
No intention of coming back?!

Now fearing what the Conqueror meant by saying that she was planning on leaving the keep and not returning, Gabrielle looked at the woman with sad eyes.

GABRIELLE
You're giving up the keep and leaving? But why? But everyone here, with you and all of this gone, what are they supposed to do?

The young woman paused for a moment to try to calm her thoughts that were now racing with a whole multitude of other questions. With one in particular being something that while she was afraid of what it might be, Gabrielle needed an answer to

GABRIELLE
And what about me?

XENA
... Gabrielle.

Seeing the hurt in the other woman's eyes, Xena stood up and walked around the desk to where Gabrielle was sitting and crouched down in front of her as she placed her hand on the young woman's knee.

XENA
You are the most important thing in my life. Don't you know that? The whole reason I've even decided to do this in the first place is because of you.

She smiled softly, taking Gabrielle's hand as she continued.

XENA
You should know by now that I would never wanna be anywhere if it meant I couldn't have you by my side. You do know that, don't you?

Gabrielle could see the sincerity of the Conqueror's words mirrored in her eyes and knew without a doubt that what she was saying was true as a small smile crossed her lips.

GABRIELLE
I do. I guess you suddenly saying you were leaving just took me by surprise.

XENA
And that's my fault. I shouldn't have just sprung this on you like that. Especially since this decision doesn't only affect me. But also you and everyone else here.

GABRIELLE
(Slightly Irritated tone) No you shouldn't have.

XENA
You're right. I guess between making the decision to do this and actually getting what I needed to do done, I got caught up in trying to make sure everyone would have what they needed to start over somewhere else so it wouldn't feel like as much as a loss when I broke the news, that I kept putting off telling you.

Xena placed a small kiss on Gabrielle's hand.

XENA
And for that I'm sorry. I understand if you're upset with me.

GABRIELLE
I'm not upset Xena. At least not anymore. I just think that maybe going forward you could let your wife know ahead of time when you're planning on making any big, life altering decisions.

The Conqueror smiled.

XENA
Deal.

Xena stood and made her way back to her seat behind her desk as Gabrielle moved on to trying to sort out the remaining questions she had when it came to Xena's motivation for making her decision to leave.

GABRIELLE
But I still don't understand why you're doing this?

LEONIDAS
If you don't mind my lord...

Hearing Leonidas speak, both Xena and Gabrielle looked at see the man walking up to them after having stepped aside to give the two women a little space while they worked out their misunderstanding.

LEONIDAS
I would very much like to know your reasons for doing this too.

Xena let out a short, saddened sigh.

XENA
Because in one way or another and directly or not, far too many people have been made to suffer at my hands. A lot of whom never deserved any of it. It wasn't right and though I know I could never truly fix everything I've done, I think it's about time that I begin to try. But I can't do that if I stay here and just continue on as I've been. It won't be easy, but I know if I even want a hope of trying to make up for all the horrible wrongs I've committed, I can't stay here surrounded by everything I gained from all the damage and suffering I caused. Which why I have to give all this up. And why as of today, the woman that this world knows as the lord Conqueror is officially dead.

The sun was shining when Gabrielle walked outside and stood looking at the last few remaining carts that were still being loaded up with people and their belongings. Several weeks had gone by since Xena had made the extremely shocking announcement that she had decided to give up her title and rule as Conqueror. Shortly after she had told Gabrielle and Leonidas, Xena made the official announcement to everyone else. All of whom were just as taken by surprise by the news, with many making multiple attempts at trying to get the woman to change her mind to no avail. However, with the now former Conqueror's mind set, everyone who had been in Xena's employ as a result of her stepping down as Conqueror suddenly found themselves out of a job. Which was why in order to make sure that her decision to no longer rule as Conqueror didn't cause any unnecessary issues for those who had faithfully served and worked for her, before the day to leave came every single person had been given a portion of the vast amount of the wealth that Xena had accumulated and saved over the years in order to help them start over wherever they chose to go after leaving. And now there they were several weeks later as a few people climbed into the cart and Gabrielle watched them ride away from the now empty building and out of the front gates.

ELLE
It's kind of a sad sight, isn't it?

Hearing her friends voice come from behind her, Gabrielle turned around and saw Elle walking down the steps carrying a decent sized pack as she made her way over to where Gabrielle was standing.

GABRIELLE
Yeah I guess it is. So what are you gonna do now that you aren't working for Xena?

Elle shrugged.

ELLE
Don't know yet. I've been here so long that I'm not sure what's out there now. So until I decide what I'm gonna do I think I'm just gonna do a little traveling for a bit.

GABRIELLE
Well I'm gonna miss you Elle. Ever since I got here you've been such a good friend.

Elle gave her friend a sad smile as the two young women shared a hug and tried not to cry.

ELLE
I'm gonna miss you too Gabrielle.

Elle pulled back

ELLE
But I refuse to believe that this is goodbye forever. I'm sure we'll see each other again.

GABRIELLE
Sure. I look forward to it.

Elle looked over to the cart that was walking for her for a moment before returning her attention to Gabrielle.

ELLE
Well I had better get going. We've got a long trip ahead.

GABRIELLE
Then I guess this is goodbye for now huh.

ELLE
Guess so. Take care of her lordship. And you stay safe out there too.

Elle turned toward the cart and smiled back at Gabrielle before walking away.

ELLE
Until we see each other again, Gabrielle.

With a small smile and a wave, Gabrielle watched Elle walk away and climb into a cart that then pulled away, following in the same path that the other carts had taken until it faded out of view.

XENA
You're gonna miss her huh?

Xena stopped to stand beside Gabrielle after walking back from making sure that everything that needed to be attended to had taken care of.

GABRIELLE
She's my friend, of course I'm gonna miss her.

Xena put her arm around the younger woman to comfort her.

XENA
Well like you said, I'm sure this won't be the last time you see each other.

GABRIELLE
Yeah.

Wrapping an arm around Xena's waist, Gabrielle leaned her head against the taller woman as she looked out at now basically empty courtyard before she realized that something felt different and moved her head to look at the woman standing beside her only to get yet one more unexpected surprise.

GABRIELLE
I've never seen you wearing that before.

Gabrielle looked Xena up and down as she took in the woman's new look as instead of the typical style of shirts and pants she had always worn since Gabrielle had known her, Xena now stood there in a dark brown, sleeveless, leather top that had a bit of bronze armor that layed in a decorative design on the front and back and a short skirt that was layered with multiple strips of same colored leather. with some of the strips having golden studs going down them. And to round out the new ensemble, the dark haired woman wore a pair of boots that came up to her knees along with a set of arm bands that went around the upper part of both her arms and gauntlets that started at her wrist and came most of the way up her forearms. All of which were made of the same dark brown leather and had a series of different gold designs on the arm bands and gauntlets. And then finally, Xena carried a sword that sat in a brown leather sheathe on her back as she smiled at the surprised look she was getting from her wife.

XENA
I thought since my days as Conqueror are over, it would be better to leave as much of that part of me behind me as I can. So I had this made.

After taking in Xena's new look for a moment, Gabrielle smiled.

GABRIELLE
Well I think it fits you perfectly.

Xena smirked.

XENA
(Joking tone) Glad to hear you approve.

?
That is quite the impressive new look my lord.

Xena turned around from speaking with Gabrielle as the pair saw Leonidas and Sarah walking down the steps to met them.

XENA
I appreciate the compliment. And you know you can just call me Xena now. If you remember I gave up my title of Conqueror.

Leonidas shrugged.

LEONIDAS
Old habits.

XENA
So what's the plan for you two after leaving here?

LEONIDAS
There's a little piece of land not far from here that Sarah and I decided would make a good place to settle down. Think I might try my hand at farm work and see how that goes. After all, even with your generosity we can't live off what you gave us forever

The former lieutenant smiled.

LEONIDAS
Especially since before long it seems we're gonna have another little mouth feed.

Realizing what Leonidas was saying, Gabrielle looked at Sara with a surprised but happy expression.

GABRIELLE
You're gonna have a baby?! That's amazing news. Congratulations I'm so happy you both.

Sara smiled as she hugged Gabrielle.

SARA
Thank you. We really couldn't be happier.

Xena looked at Sara.

XENA
I agree, that really is some great news.

The former Conqueror returned her focus to Leonidas as she held out her hand and gave the man a congratulatory handshake.

XENA
Congratulations I'm certain you'll be an excellent father.

LEONIDAS
(Half joking tone) Here's hoping.

XENA
Trust me I doubt you'll have anything to worry about.

Leonidas and Xena released each other's hands.

XENA
Anyway, I wanted to thank you for all your service. You've always been an amazing lieutenant and an even better man. I'm glad I could always count on you both on and off the battlefield. Even though I know I wasn't always the easiest person to have to deal with.

LEONIDAS
(Joking tone) You? Difficult?
(Exaggerated gasp/ lying) No.

The lighthearted expression that been on Xena's face changed to an unamused blank stare.

XENA
(Flat tone) Though I can't say I'm gonna miss that smart ass attitude of yours that you decided to start letting out more recently.

Leonidas shrugged and smiled as Gabrielle couldn't help but giggle at the exchange. Both of which got an eye roll from Xena as she waved her former lieutenant off.

XENA
(Joking tone) Oh just get out of here already.

Though still smiling, Leonidas returned to being sincere as he looked over to Gabrielle.

LEONIDAS
It's been a pleasure to get to know you Gabrielle. You really brought a lot of new light and life into this place. Especially when it comes to the lord Conquer- or Xena.

Gabrielle smiled as she received a hug from the man.

LEONIDAS
You take care now and stay safe okay?

GABRIELLE
Thanks, you too Leonidas.

After a moment Gabrielle was released from the man's embrace and moved on to hug and say goodbye to Sarah before the husband and wife bid Xena one final goodbye and got into their own horse-drawn wagon before they too rode away, leaving just Xena and Gabrielle standing in front of the keep for a bit before looking to the doorway when they heard a series of thuds coming from inside.

CYRENE
Sorry to keep you two waiting.

The older woman came into view dragging a large bundle behind her as Xena swiftly climbed the stairs to meet her.

XENA
Mother what are you doing? You know you could've just asked someone to help you.

CYRENE
Everyone's gone Xena, just who do you suppose I should've asked.

XENA
Fair. Then you should've come gotten me.

Xena took hold of the bundle that Cyrene had been somewhat struggling with and effortlessly lifted and put it over her shoulder.

XENA
What do you have in here anyway?

CYRENE
Just some things from the kitchen.

XENA
Of course you do. Why does that not surprise me?

Helping her mother get safely down the stairs, Xena had Cyrene hold one arm as she carried the large bundle with the other and brought both over to the last remaining horse drawn cart that she kept for them. Then after helping Cyrene get into the back Xena put the older woman's things in the cart with her.

XENA
There. Now were just waiting on Gabrielle's sister. Though I can't imagine what could be taking her so long.

Xena looked back toward the building as she thought for a moment before idly giving the wagon a couple taps as she turned around completely.

XENA
Wait here for a, minute, I'm gonna go have Gabrielle check on her and see if she needs anything.

Leaving her mother in the cart Xena walked back over to Gabrielle and was just about to suggest that she go check on her younger sister, when they saw Lila step outside and walk down the stairs with a small bag of a few things she had been given during her relatively short time at the keep after she had been rescued.

GABRIELLE
There you are, Lila.

LILA
Sorry I kept you waiting. I was in my room and I ended up getting lost in my thoughts and guess I just lost track of time.

GABRIELLE
Don't worry about it. We're not in any hurry. Are you ready to go?

LILA
Yeah.

Smiling, Gabrielle took her sister's hand as the two made their way over to the cart where Xena helped Lila into the back with her mother before she and Gabrielle got in the front and Xena grabbed the reins that was hooked up to a tan horse with a white mane.

XENA
Alright let's get going. First stop Amphipolis. I know you've been itching to get back there and back to running your inn mother.

CYRENE
As much as I've loved staying with you Xena, It'll be nice to finally head back and see everyone there again.

Xena smiled.

XENA
Well then we had better get moving. We can go there, and then we can figure out where Gabrielle, Lila, and myself are going to do next.

LILA
Actually if it's okay I kind of already have an idea of where I wanted to go.

Hearing the young woman speak up, Xena looked back to where she and Gabrielle were seated.

XENA
Sure I guess that's okay.

With a bit of disappointment in her eyes from assuming that Lila would be traveling with them for a while, Gabrielle looked at her sister who was seated across from her.

GABRIELLE
Wait what do you mean you know where you wanna go? I thought you were gonna stay with me and Xena.

LILA
Look Gabrielle it's not that I don't want to stay with you, it's just that I think I need some time away from everything. Maybe go somewhere quiet for a while.

GABRIELLE
But where do you plan on going? Back to Potidea?

LILA
No. At least not yet anyway. There's just too many bad memories that I know living there right now will bring up. I was actually thinking of maybe seeing about going to stay with some of the family that last I knew lived in a cottage far south.

GABRIELLE
(Disappointed tone) Oh.

Hearing the disappointment that Gabrielle was unable to keep hidden despite trying, Lila began to feel bad about not wanting to stay with her.

LILA
I'm sorry Gabrielle, I should've talked to you about this before. But if you really want me to stay...

Gabrielle shook her head.

GABRIELLE
No, it's okay. I don't want you to think that you have to stay with me and Xena if you don't want to. And if you need to go stay somewhere quiet so you can better deal with what happened to you, then I want you to go.

LILA
Are you sure you're okay with me not staying?

GABRIELLE
I'm sure.

Gabrielle smiled.

GABRIELLE
Besides it's not like we aren't gonna get to spend time together while we're taking you there. Plus it's not like Xena won't bring me to come visit you.

XENA
Any time you want.

Hearing the conversation, Xena glanced back at the sister's as she reinforced Gabrielle's statement.

GABRIELLE
See? It's settled then.

Lila smiled.

LILA
Im glad you understand.

GABRIELLE
Of course. You're my sister Lila. All I want is to see you safe and happy.

LILA
Still, thank you Gabrielle. It means a lot to hear you say that.

XENA
Well now that that's settled...

Having been unable not to overhear the conversation that was going on right behind her and listening it the misunderstanding between Gabrielle and her sister resolve itself, Xena spoke to all three of the other three women in the cart with her.

XENA
Shall we get a move on?

After both Lila and Cyrene confirmed that they were ready to go, Xena looked over to Gabrielle who put her arm around Xena's as she smiled at the dark haired woman.

GABRIELLE
Yeah, let's go.

After giving the command for the horse to start walking, the cart carrying Xena, Gabrielle, Lila and Cyrene began to move. And as the small group exited the front gates of the keep and made its way onto the open road, Gabrielle rested her head on Xena's shoulder and both women smiled as they knew that thanks to the one fateful night that brought them together for the very first time just outside Xena's camp over a year ago, both of their lives had been forever changed. Not only in things that they had already seen, but also in ways that neither Xena nor Gabrielle could have ever hoped to dream.

THE END ❤

POST STORY NOTES:
Well it seems we've finally come to the end of this tale. I know that this was a pretty long road and by this was by far the longest story I've written to date when I'm posting this. So to everyone who got through reading such a long story, that I'm sure at times felt very slow moving, thank you for sticking with me and reading all the way through to the end. I appreciate your time and feedback and hope you enjoyed reading and taking this epic, alternate journey of Xena and Gabrielle's in the first Conqueror story I've attempted doing even a fraction as much as I've enjoyed writing it. Thanks for all your views, likes and comments on this story and I hope to have another new exciting adventure involving our favorite warrior princess and her battling bard very soon. I always appreciate your feedback on all my works.

THANKS FOR READING 😁❤

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