Pt.16
The door quietly opened and shut as Xena entered the room she and Gabrielle were staying in. She moved through the dark room until she reached the bed. Her Bacchae sight allowing her to see just fine even with no light. She stood by the bed and removed her sword and its sheathe, along with her chakram. Followed by her chest armor and shoulder guards, and placed them on the stand, so they would be close if they were needed. Afterward she sat on the open side of the bed and took off her boots, guantlets and armbands. Once she was in only her leathers, Xena laid down and got comfortable as she was careful not to disturb Gabrielle, who looked to still be asleep. Xena stared up into the darkness for a moment until she heard Gabrielle quietly speak.
GABRIELLE
Aren't we leaving?
Surprised that Gabrielle was awake, Xena looked next to her. She saw Gabrielle's eyes open. They were their normal green once again. Indicating that Gabrielle's Bacchae side had been sated for the time being and that she was back to her normal self. Although as Xena got a better look she noticed that those green eyes were slightly puffy and Xena didn't really have to ask why. Instead, she moved her arm in an unspoken invitation for Gabrielle to come closer, which Gabrielle accepted as she rested her head on Xena's chest as she felt Xena's arm wrap around her.
XENA
No. I had a talk with Alexia, and she said she would let us stay.
Gabrielle raised her head and looked at Xena in the darkness.
GABRIELLE
Xena what did...
Xena softly shushed Gabrielle as she continued.
XENA
It's alright Gabrielle. I was fully prepared for us to leave, but Alexia insisted we could stay.
GABRIELLE
But why? After what I did. If you hadn't shown up, I could've gotten free and...
Gabrielle closed her eyes as she relieved the painful memory of what happened that caused her and Xena to realize that they were still Bacchae. Xena reached and gently lifted Gabrielle's face to look at her, knowing exactly where her mind was going.
XENA
No Gabrielle, don't go there. I won't ever let that happen again.
Gabrielle opened her paifilled eyes and looked at Xena.
GABRIELLE
You can't promise that Xena. If you hadn't gotten back when you did today, I would've killed Alexia and who knows who else.
XENA
But I did and you didn't. And everyone's perfectly safe now.
GABRIELLE
Still it's my fault for thinking I could just will myself into controlling my cravings. I should know better by now. I should've been more careful and kept better track of how much blood we had left. If I had...
Xena softly shushed Gabrielle as she held her a little tighter.
XENA
Gabrielle going down this road doesn't do anyone any good. You made a mistake. It was a serious one, but I know you never intended to hurt anyone. And honestly, what happened tonight was particularly my fault too for not getting more blood sooner. Not to mention, leaving you alone like that when you weren't in your right mind with other people who don't know what's going on around was only asking for something like that to happen.
GABRIELLE
It's not like you had much choice. We have that plan for a reason.
XENA
Exactly. And that's why we used it today. Even though now I see that we clearly need to either get stronger restraints or come up with a completely new plan.
GABRIELLE
But I still don't get it. Why did Alexia agree to still let us stay?
Xena explained what happened with the innkeeper's sister.
GABRIELLE
Gods, that's horrible.
Gabrielle pulled away from Xena's embrace and sat up as she held her face in her hands.
GABRIELLE
And I went after her.
Gabrielle looked next to her as Xena sat up.
XENA
Gabrielle we've been over this.
GABRIELLE
No Xena it was my fault. You can say what you want, but I made the choice to go without blood when I know what would happen.
XENA
Gabrielle...
GABRIELLE
It's true.
Seeing that she wasn't getting anywhere like this Xena decided to try a different tactic for comforting Gabrielle.
XENA
(Soft tone) Okay. Okay. Maybe you could've been more careful, but no one got hurt tonight so no harm done.
GABRIELLE
This time.
Gabrielle looked down.
GABRIELLE
I, I'm not just not sure how much longer I can do this. The thought that I can just lose control over myself and go after innocent people. I know you said we would find a cure, but we've been searching for so long and don't have anything to show for it. I'm starting to think that there isn't one.
Gabrielle moved to the edge of the bed and stood as she then walked to the window and folded her arms as she looked out at the night sky.
GABRIELLE
And if there's not... I... I don't think I can do that. Live out my days with this part of me that I can't control. I can't.
XENA
Gabrielle, don't say stuff like that.
Xena got out of bed and moved to where Gabrielle stood as she placed a gentle hand on Gabrielle's arm.
XENA
We'll find a way to fix this. We WILL.
GABRIELLE
I don't see how you can be so sure. We've been searching and haven't found even the slightest clue for what to do.
Xena turned Gabrielle to face her.
XENA
Not yet but we will.
GABRIELLE
How?
Xena smiled softly.
XENA
Hey if we can take on gods, come back from the dead and do all the other stuff we do, finding a cure for being a Bacchae shouldn't be impossible. We'll figure it out, Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
I wish I could believe that.
XENA
Gabrielle....
Xena thought for a moment as she saw the sadness and defeat in Gabrielle's eyes.
XENA
Gabrielle, do you trust me?
GABRIELLE
Always. You know that.
Xena brought her hands up and held Gabrielle's face as she looked deeply into her eyes.
XENA
Then trust me now when I say that we'll get through this and find a cure. I will never stop searching until we do. One day we'll be able to leave this all behind and never have to fear losing ourselves completely to our Bacchae sides again.
GABRIELLE
I'm sorry, but as much as I want to, I just can't convince myself to believe that.
Xena sighed as she opened her mouth to speak but stopped when Gabrielle placed a hand over Xena's that still generally cradled her face.
GABRIELLE
But if there's anything I do believe in, Xena, it's you. So if you believe that we can find a cure, then I believe you.
Xena softly smiled as she gave Gabrielle a light kiss.
XENA
I love you Gabrielle.
Xena put her arms around Gabrielle as Gabrielle did the same. The two stood there, bathed in the slight moonlight that came in through the window for a moment. Afterward Xena pulled back and quickly swept Gabrielle up in her arms who yelped slightly in surprise but then smiled as she saw the loving smile on Xena's face.
XENA
It's late, come on, let's go back to bed.
Gabrielle leaned her head on Xena's chest and thought of how safe and secure she always felt in Xena's arms. Even like today, when she felt herself slipping into a dark place of hopelessness and fear, Xena found a way to pull her through. Just as she always did.
GABRIELLE
Thanks.
Xena paused in her steps and looked down at Gabrielle.
XENA
For what?
GABRIELLE
For being here when I need you.
XENA
I'll always be here Gabrielle. Always.
GABRIELLE
I know.
Xena continued towards the bed when she felt Gabrielle place a light kiss on the upper part of her chest.
GABRIELLE
I love you Xena.
Xena smiled softly to herself as she reached the bed and laid Gabrielle down. She then moved and pulled off Gabrielle's boots. Putting them on the floor before covering Gabrielle with a blanket and walking around to the vacant side of the bed. Once laying down, Gabrielle moved into Xena's embrace and the two settled into one of their typical comfortable positions together. Both on their side, with Gabrielle held close by Xena as she could feel the warmth and comfort of Xena pressed against her as their bodies molded together. Gabrielle snuggled further against her as she moved her hand over Xena's that rested on her stomach, interlocking her fingers with Xena's. As she did, Xena lightly kissed her shoulder before laying her head down on the pillow and Gabrielle closed her eyes, feeling safe and at ease as the stress of the day finally took its toll and she fell asleep. Xena on the other hand remained awake for a bit longer as she spent the night the same way she had so many others since they had become Bacchae, trying to think of anything that they could do to get out of their predicament.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) I swore that I would find a way to change us back to the way we were. And even if it kills me, I will find a cure. I can't let Gabrielle go on like this. I can see it in her eyes that it's killing her. And after what she said tonight, I can't stand seeing her hurting like that.
Xena closed her eyes.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) I'll find a cure. I'll find a way to give us back our humanity. What ever it takes Gabrielle. Even if it kills me.
Pt.17
With a quiet groan, a pair of sleepy eyes opened slowly as the blanket on the bed began to shift. With a yawn, a still half asleep Gabrielle gradually sat up. She rubbed her eyes and blinked a couple of times as her eyes adjusted to the bright sunlight that came in through the window. She looked beside her and wasn't shocked that Xena wasn't there. Though based on how bright the room was, Gabrielle knew it was at least mid to late morning and was a bit surprised that Xena had let her sleep in so late, figuring that Xena would probably want to head back on the road due to the fact that Xena never really liked staying in one place for long for any number of reasons. Not that Gabrielle complained. She liked the traveling. And if Gabrielle was being honest, being on the road was probably better for everyone anyway. With fewer people around, it ment that it minimized the chance of Xena or herself losing control of their Bacchae sides and attacking anyone who might be around. So with a stretch, Gabrielle got out of bed and after get herself together and reluctantly drinking a bit of blood to sate the minor craving she was having, she left the room and headed downstairs. As she walked into the main room, Gabrielle was hit was the very alurring smell of something being cooked and heard her stomach growl in response. She spotted Xena sitting at a table and walked over, receiving a loving smile as Xena saw her coming over.
XENA
(Joking tone) I was wondering when you'd finally decide to roll out of bed.
Gabrielle made it to the table and sat in the chair across from Xena.
GABRIELLE
Why didn't you wake me then?
Xena shrugged casually.
XENA
We're in no hurry to get anywhere. And after yesterday, I figured it might be a good idea to take a little break from things.
Gabrielle didn't say anything as she looked down at the table. Seeing Gabrielle's reaction, Xena regretted bringing it up and was about to apologize when she and Gabrielle heard a door open and looked over to see Alexia coming out of a room behind the bar that was obviously the kitchen as she carried a tray of food. The young woman smiled at the pair as she came to their table and put down the tray.
ALEXIA
Good morning Gabrielle. There you go.
XENA
Thanks Alexia. This all looks great.
The innkeeper shrugged.
ALEXIA
It's no big deal. My mother was the real cook of the family. She's the one who taught me everything I know about being in the kitchen. I just do my best not to mess up her recipes too badly.
Gabrielle looked at Alexia, who had a kind smile on her face.
GABRIELLE
Alexia about yesterday, Xena told me about your family. I... I never meant to... never wanted...
ALEXIA
It's okay Gabrielle. Like I told Xena last night, I don't hold anything against you. I understand. Well, as much as I can from this side of things anyway.
GABRIELLE
Still, I truly am sorry about that.
ALEXIA
I appreciate that.
Another patron staying at the inn came downstairs with a bag slig over his shoulder and sat at the counter, giving the group of women a polite nod hello as he passed by.
ALEXIA
Well I have to get back to work. Enjoy your breakfast you two and just give a holler if you need anything.
The innkeeper moved on and got to work as Xena and Gabrielle sat and ate while having a quiet conversation.
GABRIELLE
So where are we heading after breakfast?
XENA
Nowhere right now. Like I was saying, I figured taking a few days break from the usual routine might be a good idea with how stressful things have been lately.
GABRIELLE
Xena we don't have to do that. I promise I'll be more careful about keeping track of when I need to feed.
XENA
I know that. That's not what this is about.
Gabrielle put down her fork and gave Xena a serious look.
GABRIELLE
I'm not dumb Xena. I see what you're doing.
Xena raised a curious eyebrow.
XENA
Which is?
GABRIELLE
You're doing that thing you do when you're trying to prove a point.
XENA
That's not what this is.
GABRIELLE
(Slightly Irritated tone) Yes it is. I didn't do what I should've, so you've decided to make it a point that we're going to stay around people longer just to make sure that I don't skip feeding.
Xena stopped eating and leaned back in her seat with a serious expression as she gave Gabrielle her full attention.
XENA
You really think I'd do that?
GABRIELLE
You've done that sort of thing before.
XENA
Maybe I have, but I thought you saw that I was getting better about that sort of thing.
GABRIELLE
I thought you were but here we are.
Xena scowled as she stood.
XENA
(Irritated tone) well excuse me for just trying to do something nice. But fine, if you don't wanna stay, we won't.
Xena walked away and headed to the stairs.
XENA
(Irritated tone) I'll get our stuff and meet you outside.
Seeing the expression on Xena's face that was more hurt than anger before she left the table, Gabrielle realized that Xena really was just trying to do something nice for her and immediately felt bad for getting upset with Xena for it.
GABRIELLE
Xena wait...
But Gabrielle went ignored as Xena stormed upstairs to their room to get their things. Gabrielle sighed to herself as she sat there with her thoughts for a moment.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) What's wrong with me? Xena's been doing nothing but being supportive and trying everything she can to help us deal with this. I lean on her for support all the time, everything though she's dealing with the same thing, and she never once complained. But then I get mad at her for trying to do something nice that though she might not admit it is probably just as much for her as it is me. If anything, she probably needs a break from things more than I do.
Gabrielle shook her head slightly as she felt so disappointed in herself for not being more mindful of what Xena had been dealing with since becoming Bacchae.
GABRIELLE
That changes today.
Gabrielle stood up and grabbed their plates as she asked Alexia if she could take their meal upstairs and got a quick wave to go ahead as the innkeeper carried on with the increasing number of patrons coming in. So Gabrielle took the food and headed to her and Xena's room.
GABRIELLE
Still hungry?
Xena turned from the bed that had her pack on it and saw Gabrielle enter the room with their remaining breakfast.
XENA
(Slightly angry tone) Not really.
Xena turned back to the bag and closed it up, as Gabrielle walked over to the bed and sat down. Putting the food on the nightstand before she sat.
GABRIELLE
Xena if you wanna stay here for a few days we can.
XENA
No it fine. You wanna leave, so we'll leave.
Though Xena tried to hide it, Gabrielle could tell that she was upset with her.
GABRIELLE
But what about you?
XENA
(Lying) I'm fine.
Xena grabbed the bag to pick it up when Gabrielle put her hand over Xena's.
GABRIELLE
Xena...
Xena stopped what she was doing as she looked at Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
I'm sorry. Please.
Gabrielle patted the bed in an invitation for Xena to sit next to her. Xena sighed as picked up the bag and placed it on the floor and sat down on the bed.
GABRIELLE
I don't want you to think that I don't appreciate everything you've been doing. I do. I wouldn't be able to get through this if it wasn't for you being here. I know that everything you've done has only been to try and make this better. Even when I know you're hurting or tired, you still put me first. And if I haven't said it already, thank you.
XENA
You don't need to thank me Gabrielle. The only reason we're even in this mess in the first place is because of me. I couldn't defeat Bacchus before, and hadn't let you bite me.
GABRIELLE
You only did that because we had no other choice if we wanted to get rid of him. If anything, it's my fault for letting myself get lured in by those other Bacchae. I don't even know what I was thinking, letting my guard down like that.
XENA
(Sighing) How many times are we gonna do this Gabrielle? Debate on who's to blame for this when In the end, it doesn't really matter.
We both made choices that brought us here, and nothing either of us say now will change what happened.
GABRIELLE
Maybe.
Gabrielle paused for a moment before continuing.
GABRIELLE
You know now that I think about it maybe staying around here for a bit might be nice.
Gabrielle reached over and grabbed their plates as she held Xena's out for her to take.
GABRIELLE
Here. Before it gets cold.
Xena took the food and the two ate as they talked.
XENA
You know you don't have to be so afraid to be around people. I remember the days when you looked forward to visiting new places and meeting the people wherever we were. Sharing stories, taking in the local customs.
GABRIELLE
We both know why that changed. If I lose control people can die. Even if I'm careful and manage my cravings, things can happen. You know that. I wanna go back to those days of not worrying whither or not I'm my Bacchae side is gonna take over. But unless we find a cure, I just can't do that.
XENA
I know.
A little later, as Xena and Gabrielle finished eating, there was a knock on the door to their room.
GABRIELLE
Yes?
Alexia opened the door a little as she popped her head inside.
ALEXIA
Hi. I'm not interrupting you, am I?
GABRIELLE
No it's fine. Come in.
The young women entered the room and grabbed a chair that sat in the corner and moved it to near the bed where Xena and Gabrielle sat.
ALEXIA
Good because there's actually something that I kinda wanted to talk to you about.
The innkeeper sat down.
GABRIELLE
Look, if this is about what happened downstairs, I hope we didn't cause a scene.
Alexia laughed a little.
ALEXIA
Don't worry it's nothing like that. As you saw yesterday, this place can get a little ruckus sometimes. That's just a part of running an inn, so trust me there's been plenty worse than a couple of people having a disagreement during breakfast.
GABRIELLE
Oh then was there something you needed Alexia?
ALEXIA
Actually last night I went through my things looking for something I thought that you might need.
Alexia smiled as she revealed a small box that she had been casually keeping hidden from view.
ALEXIA
After what happened to my family, I'm not really sure why, but I began doing research and searching for a way to cure being a Bacchae. And while I don't know if it'll actually help or work, I thought that maybe you two might be able to find a use for what I found. So here you can just take it.
The innkeeper leaned forward slightly and handed Gabrielle the box.
GABRIELLE
Are you sure?
ALEXIA
Yeah. I don't really have any reason to keep it anymore. My sister's gone, and I'm too busy with the in to follow up on anything I found. So hopefully it can help you two.
Gabrielle looked at the wooden box for a moment before returning her focus on Alexia
GABRIELLE
I don't know what to say.... thank you.
Alexia smiled.
ALEXIA
Don't mention it. Just promise me that you'll let me know if it worked.
Gabrielle smiled back.
GABRIELLE
We will.
ALEXIA
I look forward to it.
The young woman stood and put the chair back as she then took Xena and Gabrielle's empty plates and went to the door. She stood there for a moment and looked back at Xena and Gabrielle as she noticed the packed bag.
ALEXIA
Well if you're heading out just remember that Bacchae or not, you're both always welcome here, and I hope you'll come back.
With a smile, the innkeeper left the room as she shut the door behind her. After a moment, Gabrielle looked down at the small box in her hands.
GABRIELLE
I can't believe Alexia did that. I wonder what's inside or if it'll help.
Xena reached over as Gabrielle let her take the container. Xena examined the box for a moment in curiosity before placing it on her lap as she prepared to open it.
XENA
I guess there's only one way to find out.
And so Xena opened the box, both she and Gabrielle unaware that their quest to find a cure for them being Bacchae was about to take on a whole new meaning.
Pt.18
Sitting on the bed, Xena and Gabrielle looked at the small box that Alexia had given them. The container itself didn't appear to be anything special. It was just a simple, wooden box that was small enough to fit in one hand.
XENA
Guess we should open it and see what's inside.
After removing the lid, Xena placed it on the table near the bed and looked inside. In the box were a few pieces of paper that were either rolled or folded up neatly. Xena and Gabrielle exchanged curious looks before Xena took the few items from the box and set the container on the stand as she layed the items in front of Gabrielle and herself. At random Gabrielle curiously picked up one of the pieces of paper and opened it.
XENA
What is it.
Gabrielle scanned the page for a few moments as she got the gist of what was written.
GABRIELLE
It looks like it's a bunch of notes on Bacchus.
XENA
Anything useful?
GABRIELLE
No, this is all stuff we already knew. What he was the god of, basic information about Bacchae, stuff like that.
Gabrielle rolled the paper back up and set it aside, as Xena picked up another paper and unfolded it.
XENA
A map.
GABRIELLE
Of where?
After making room Xena spread the map on the bed as she and Gabrielle looked it over.
XENA
I'm not sure. Maybe there's something else in the box that'll tell us what we're looking at.
Gabrielle picked up one of the remaining two pieces of paper. She opened it and glanced at it before putting it to the side for the moment, as it didn't seem to have anything to do with the map. Opening the last folded paper, Gabrielle saw various symbols and writing and determined that it must've been the map's key.
GABRIELLE
Got it.
Gabrielle layed out the smaller paper next to the map as Xena looked them both over. On the map there were several squares scattered in various locations. Some of which had X's over them. Xena looked at the map key as she deciphered what the various symbols ment.
GABRIELLE
What is all of this.
Xena studied the paper for another moment before she spoke.
XENA
Temple locations.
GABRIELLE
Temples? To Bacchus?
XENA
It doesn't say. But I don't see how temples dedicated to Bacchus would do any good, so I don't think that's who they're for.
Gabrielle grabbed another piece of paper.
GABRIELLE
Maybe this will tell us.
Gabrielle unfolded the paper and read it.
GABRIELLE
Interesting.
XENA
What does it say?
GABRIELLE
You're right Xena, these aren't locations for temples to Bacchus. They're for another god. Demeter.
XENA
Whose Demeter? I've never heard of him.
GABRIELLE
Neither have I. But according to this, "she's" the goddess of presiding over crops, grains, agriculture, food in general, and the harvest.
XENA
Okay, what does that have to do with finding a Bacchae cure?
Gabrielle kept reading and was surprised at what she read next.
GABRIELLE
Well, Alexia seems to think that Demeter might be the perfect answer to doing that.
XENA
Why?
Gabrielle lowered the paper and Xena saw the surprise on her face.
GABRIELLE
Because Demeter is Bacchus' sister.
XENA
So what. Most of the Olympian gods are related.
GABRIELLE
True but according to this Bacchus was an outcast amung most of them. Except for really his sister Demeter.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Poor thing. He was just so charming I can't imagine why no one would like him.
Though most of the gods are terrible, so I wonder what Bacchus could've done to earn his status as a pariah among the rest of 'em.
GABRIELLE
Let's see if this says anything.
Gabrielle read on.
GABRIELLE
Okay this says that Bacchus was one of the twelve Olympian gods and the last one born of all of them.
XENA
Youngest of those gods huh. Could explain the rift between him and the others.
GABRIELLE
It could be part of it, but if what's written here is true, I think there's another explanation.
XENA
Go on.
GABRIELLE
Okay this goes on to say that Bacchus' father was Zeus obviously and his mother was...
Gabrielle looked up from the paper.
GABRIELLE
A mortal woman.
Xena arched her eyebrows in surprise.
XENA
Interesting. So Bacchus wasn't a full god. That could've been the reason for him not getting along with the other gods.
GABRIELLE
It would make sense. Though, I'm surprised that the others still let him become one of the Olympians.
XENA
Go figure. You know, half of what those gods do doesn't make sense anyway. It was probably Zues who had final say it the matter anyway. Does it say who his mother was?
Gabrielle looked back at the paper for a moment.
GABRIELLE
Umm, a Theban princess named Semele.
XENA
(Sighing) Well given that she was mortal, I doubt she's still alive. So looking her isn't gonna help. Does it say anything else?
GABRIELLE
Nope, that's basically it. It doesn't seem like much to go on.
Xena became thoughtful for a moment.
XENA
Actually I think there's more here than we realize.
GABRIELLE
Meaning?
XENA
Based on the information here, and the marks on the map, it looks like Alexia has been looking for Demeter. Figuring that due to her close ties to Bacchus, the goddess might have some answers for dealing with Bacchus and possibly knowing a cure for being a Bacchae.
GABRIELLE
I could see that. But this says that she's typically reclusive from humans and rarely ever shows herself.
XENA
I guess that would explain why Alexia hasn't actually come in contact with her yet. But given that we seem to attract attention from the god's, as much as I hate to admit it, that might actually work in our favor for once.
GABRIELLE
Xena if Bacchus and Demeter were actually close, I sincerely doubt that Demeter would get involved in her brother's business. And I even less likely that she'd help us. We killed Bacchus. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if she tried to kill us out of revenge.
Xena picked up the map and looked at the few marked locations that didn't have an X over it as she determined that they must've been the temples to Demeter that Alexia hadn't visited.
XENA
Then we'll just have to "convince" her otherwise.
Xena lowered the map and looked at Gabrielle, who had an odd expression on her face.
XENA
What's wrong?
Gabrielle sighed.
GABRIELLE
Nothing. It's just that this is the first real lead we've gotten since all this started. I don't wanna get my hopes up, but I can't help but feel like we might finally be heading in the right direction in at least finding some answers.
Xena smiled a little.
XENA
It is nice to finally have something to go on, isn't it?
Gabrielle smiled back.
GABRIELLE
It really is.
The two put the papers back in the box and Xena got up and stored it in her pack. As she closed up her bag, Xena felt Gabrielle come up behind and lean against her back as she wrapped her arms around Xena's midsection.
GABRIELLE
Thanks for never giving up. Even when I wanted to, and it didn't seem like we would ever find a way out of this.
Xena moved Gabrielle's arms from around her as she turned and held Gabrielle in return.
XENA
I promised that I would never stop searching for a way to change us back and I ment it. And even if this doesn't go anywhere, I'll keep looking until we find something that works.
GABRIELLE
I know you will. I love you, Xena.
XENA
I love you.
Xena lightly lifted Gabrielle's face and kissed her softly. Gabrielle returned the favor as the kiss deepened. Slowly, Xena let her hands roam across Gabrielle's back as she pulled her closer. They shared several more passionate kisses before Xena pulled her lips from Gabrielle's. She looked at Gabrielle as they caught their breath and knew the familiar expression she received. The unspoken look of desire came into Gabrielle's eyes. The same look that was reflected in Xena's.
XENA
Don't move.
Xena pulled out of their embrace and grabbed the key from the nightstand as she went over and locked the door to their room. Returning quickly, she tossed the key back on the stand and swept Gabrielle off her feet who laughed a little as she was carried to the bed. After being playfully tossed on the bed, Gabrielle quickly found Xena pouncing over her and looking down at her while on hands and knees. The two met for a few more deep caresses of their lips before Xena pulled back and remained on her knees as she began to glide her hands across Gabrielle's exposed stomach. As Xena worked her way up Gabrielle's torso, she lightly let her nails tease Gabrielle's skin before reaching the small green top that Gabrielle always wore. Xena's hands continued upward over the shirt as they soon covered Gabrielle's still clothed breasts. Applying a bit of pressure, Xena proceeded to smooth her hands over Gabrielle's chest and got a pleasurable sigh in response. Xena continued to mold Gabrielle's bust in her firm yet gentle grip as she leaned forward, and the two locked into a deep, fiery kiss. Xena's tongue passed into Gabrielle's mouth, and the two allowed the body parts to dance for several moments before the need for uninhibited access to oxygen forced them apart. As both breathed heavily, Xena rose to her knees and pulled the string that tied Gabrielle's top closed. Once the string was undone, Xena quickly pulled at the ties as she opened Gabrielle's shirt to reveal her bosoms. Once exposed, Gabrielle felt Xena's hands return to her boobs. She let out a soft sigh as she felt Xena's hands directly on her flesh. Slowly Xena rolled her hands over the peaks and Gabrielle arched slightly into Xena's touch. As Xena molded Gabrielle's breasts, Gabrielle moved her hands over Xena's and breathe deeply as she felt the familiar stirring of desire between her legs. After a few moments of kneading Gabrielle's chest, Xena lowered herself toward Gabrielle's lips and kissed her before using her lips to mark a trail down Gabrielle's neck, between her breasts and down her stomach. Gabrielle jerked slightly and giggled as Xena teased and tickled her belly button with her tongue. Getting the exact response she expected, Xena smiled as she moved back up Gabrielle's torso and had Gabrielle sit up slightly to get her top off and tossed it aside. With the shirt out of the way, Xena brought her lips to Gabrielle's chest. She kissed each breast a few times before tracing the tip of her tongue over one of Gabrielle's nipples. Gabrielle closed her eyes in response and softly moaned as Xena took the nipple into her mouth and began to suck. Xena heard Gabrielle whisper her name and felt Gabrielles fingers entangle themselves into her long raven locks as she pressed Xena further against her. Xena continued her suction on Gabrielle's chest and brought a hand down to Gabrielle's skirt. Without removing her mouth from its activity, Xena moved Gabrielle's skirt up and then began rubbing her hand over Gabrielle's underwear against her femininity. This got a slightly bigger moan from Gabrielle as she felt Xena moving over her center. After a few strokes up and down, Xena began to work small circles on Gabrielle's covered nether region. Gabrielle moaned as it didn't take long until Xena could feel the dampness of Gabrielle's arousal through the underclothing. There was a slightly disappointed sigh as Xena took her mouth and hand away and got up to her knees. She then pulled off Gabrielle's boots and undid the button that kept Gabrielle's skirt up. After it was loosened, Xena took hold of the waist of the skirt, along with Gabrielle's underwear and with Gabrielle lifting her hips slightly, Xena slipped the clothing down and off, dropping them on the floor. When done Xena stood and removed her own armor, boots, leathers and undergarments before climbing back on the bed fully nude, Xena laid on her back and took Gabrielle's hand to guide her where she wanted. Once situated, Gabrielle was on her knees straddling Xena's head. Xena brought her hands to Gabrielle's backside and lightly molded it in her grasp for a moment before guiding Gabrielle down to her mouth. Once in reach, Xena pressed her tongue into Gabrielle's sex and slowly brought it up the entirety of her center. Gabrielle let out a delighted, audible inhale as she felt Xena's tongue touch her. Once completing the motion, Xena repeated the action and heard Gabrielle's pleasure fueled response as she continued the pattern and few more times before pausing momentarily to press her tongue further into Gabrielle several times before returning to sweeping it up and down Gabrielle's womanhood. Gabrielle could feel the blissful sensation within her slowly building as Xena continued to burrow her tongue within her. As the pleasure built, Gabrielle reached back and brought her hand between Xena's legs. She then began to run her fingers against Xena's nether region. Xena instantly reacted with a moan into Gabrielle as she moved a leg to give Gabrielle better access. Feeling Xena's continued lapping of her center, Gabrielle knew that it wouldn't be long until she hit her pinnacle. Still, she continued to run her hand up and down Xena's womanhood for a few moments before embedding a couple fingers into Xena's depths. Feeling herself being suddenly filled, Xena groaned approvingly against Gabrielle, who felt the sudden vibration Xena's moan created against her and enjoyed it immensely. Slowly, Gabrielle began weaving her fingers in and out of Xena's core as Xena continued gliding her tongue everywhere it would reach within Gabrielle's feminine treasure. After a few more moments, Xena could hear the change in the pitch of Gabrielle's voice that always went higher when she was nearing an orgasm. As her climax edged closer, Gabrielle began rocking her hips against Xena's continuously probing tongue. And as a direct result of Gabrielle's movements, the speed and force of which her fingers penetrated Xena's opening increased. Feeling this only fueled Xena further, as she pulled Gabrielle tighter against her and moved her tongue with more vigor. Gabrielle thrust herself against Xena as she found herself unable to keep her attention on Xena's needs for the, moment as everything within her was focused on the rapacious sensation that was mere moments from overtaking her. She ground herself against Xena while moving her hand from Xena's core to gripping the headboard of the bed and loudly crying out for Xena not to stop. As she felt her climax just on the horizon, Gabrielle's eyes slightly shifted into the Bacchae yellow and all of her senses became heightened as every slight movement against her skin sent Gabrielle further towards euphoria. The incredible sensation building within her depths. The sound of Xena's muffled moans and increased breathing. The aroma of the room. Everything drove Gabrielle towards her apex, until with a final thrust, Gabrielle felt her core spasm in a rapacious orgasm. She let out a euphoric cry as her body jerked slightly as each wave of her climax hit. She moved against Xena's tongue in sharp, quick motions as she rode out the earth shaking spasms that her high sent surging through her core. When a couple of moments had passed, Gabrielle's orgasm began to fade as her eyes and senses returned to normal. Catching her breath, Gabrielle moved back until she straddled Xena's stomach. Xena smiled up at her as she reached and brushed a bit of hair from Gabrielle's face. Smiling, Gabrielle leaned in and kissed Xena passionately. Afterward Gabrielle lightly brushed her lips against Xena's before moving to lay next to her. Then Gabrielle began slowly tracing her hand down Xena's stomach until she reached her destination between Xena's legs. Xena took a breath as she felt Gabrielle moving her fingers along her entrance. Her need made obvious by how wet Gabrielle could feel she was. Still, Gabrielle leisurely traced her hand along Xena's femininity as she heard Xena's breathing steadily increasing. But as Gabrielle teased, Xena felt herself practically aching for release and reached between her legs and guided Gabrielle to enter her with a small pleasurable gasp. Once getting Gabrielle to her area of need, Xena took her hand away, knowing that Gabrielle got the hint to get straight to business. With her fingers pressed inside of Xena's opening, Gabrielle began to slowly work her digits in and out of Xena's womanhood. Each stroke sinking deep into Xena's depths. Xena panted in delight as she felt Gabrielle's continued probing of her wanting center. With each thrust that Gabrielle made, she could feel Xena's body reacting in a pleasurable response. As she continued to move her hand, Gabrielle leaned over and took Xena's nipple into her mouth and began to suck. Xena groaned approvingly as she closed her eyes in bliss and brought a hand to her other breast and began groping herself. Gabrielle continued plunging her fingers into Xena for a bit longer as Xena felt herself nearing her release. Then Gabrielle paused in her repeated insertion into Xena's core as, without removing herself from within Xena, Gabrielle took her mouth from Xena's breast and moved herself to settle between Xena's legs. She laid on her stomach and with her fingers still inserted inside of Xena's womanhood, Gabrielle brought her tongue to graze against Xena's clit and got a delighted shutter and groan in response. Smiling, Gabrielle resumed working her digits in and out of Xena's core as her tongue began to dance over and around Xena's little bundle of nerves. The feeling of being pressed into and having direct attention given to her most sensitive area was nearly too much, as Xena could already feel her climax drawing near. She groaned Gabrielle's name as she felt the continued impassioned actions of Gabrielle propelling her ever closer to finding her euphoric paradise. Xena's toes dug into and her hands clutched the blanket beneath her as Gabrielle continued pressing into Xena while working her tongue over her clit. Feeling her orgasm about to hit, Xena pleaded for Gabrielle not to stop and in response felt Gabrielle thrust into her faster and take her nub into her mouth and fiercely proceeded to suck the sensitive bud. It was only seconds later when Xena let out a rapacious cry of ecstasy as a powerful orgasm swept through her. Gabrielle could feel Xena twitching from within as she took her mouth from Xena's clit and slowed her hands movements but didn't stop as she watched each time she pressed into Xena, her body was jump slightly in response as it would send another jolt of Xena's release pulsing through her. Once several moments passed and Xena began to calm down, Gabrielle withdrew her fingers from within Xena and crawled up to lay beside her. Once catching her breath, Xena drew Gabrielle close and held her as they shared several passionate kisses and "I love you's" before snuggling up together and settling down as Xena used her foot to reach a light blanket at the end of the bed and kicked it up to her hand as she spread it over them and got as smile and shake of the head from Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) Show off.
XENA
Would you rather have to had moved?
Gabrielle kissed Xena as she layed her head back down on Xena's chest where it had been resting.
GABRIELLE
Not really. I'm very comfortable right where I am.
Xena smiled.
XENA
That's what I thought.
The rest of the day passed with Xena and Gabrielle primary spending it in bed. They decided to take full advantage of the rare opportunity of being somewhere comfortable and safe for once. Which honestly was something that the both of them desperately needed as of late, with the additional stress of living as Bacchae had provided on top of their already rather difficult lives of near constant travel and trouble cropping up seemingly everywhere they went. But these were the lives they chose, and neither Xena nor Gabrielle could really picture it any other way. Well aside from being Bacchae of course. That was something Xena was definitely determined to change. So as the day turned to night and the next morning came, Gabrielle followed Xena down from their room.
ALEXIA
I take it from the bags that you're leaving.
GABRIELLE
Yeah. We're gonna try checking some of the temples of Demeter to see what we can come up with.
ALEXIA
Well hopefully you'll have better luck then I did. I only wish I could've given you more to go on.
GABRIELLE
No you've already done so much. Before we came here, we didn't have anything at all. And now thanks to you, we finally have something real to follow.
ALEXIA
I don't wanna be a downer, but Demeter hasn't been seen by mortals in a very long time. I tried so many times to get her to appear and never could. So while I'm happy to have given you hope that you and Xena can put an end to your nightmare, just don't get too excited that this will solve everything. Honestly, if you do find her I'm not even sure if she'll help you.
GABRIELLE
Don't worry, we're already prepared for that possibility. But still, we have to try. And while finding Demeter might be tricky, I don't think convincing her to help us will be too hard.
ALEXIA
Why's that?
Gabrielle glanced at Xena for a moment and smiled.
GABRIELLE
Because I know a certain someone that can be very good at getting what she wants when she needs to be.
ALEXIA
Well given what I saw when you two first got here, I don't doubt that for a second. I hope you find her.
Gabrielle and Alexia hugged.
ALEXIA
Good luck and stay safe okay.
GABRIELLE
We will. And thank you, Alexia.
The two separated as the innkeeper looked at Xena.
ALEXIA
I'd offer you a hug goodbye too, but something tells me aside from Gabrielle and others close to you, that's not really your style.
Xena smirked.
XENA
Kinda.
ALEXIA
Don't worry about it.
Alexia held out her hand and Xena grasped it for a moment.
ALEXIA
Take care of yourself Xena.
XENA
You too. And thanks for everything.
ALEXIA
Of course. And remember, you're both more than welcome back here anytime you're in the area. So I hope you'll stop by again. Hopefully with good news.
XENA
We will.
Xena let go of the innkeeper's hand and carried her and Gabrielle's things towards the door with a smile and a wave.
XENA
See you around.
GABRIELLE
Bye Alexia. We'll come back and visit sometime.
ALEXIA
I look forward to it, Gabrielle.
The innkeeper gave a smile and quick wave as Gabrielle caught up with Xena who was holding open the front door letting in the early morning sun. The two locked back at the kind woman who had given them a renewed sense of optimism that they could find a way out of the circumstances that had plagued them for some time now. With one more smile from each of them, Gabrielle walked outside, with Xena right behind as she shut the door behind her. As not long after, the two trotted across the countryside on Argo as their search for Demeter began. And though it seemed as though some light had finally begun to shine onto Xena and Gabrielle's otherwise dreary situation, they had no way of knowing that the new path they were on would soon turn far darker than they ever could have expected.