Pt.19
Through a series of trees laid a small stream that was newly occupied by a couple of passersby.
XENA
Okay girl go on and get a drink and some nice grass to munch on.
Xena gave Argo a pat on her neck before the mare walked off with a happy snort. Once Argo had walked off, Xena turned to see Gabrielle coming towards her after filling up their water skins and handing one of them to Xena. After taking a quick drink, Xena walked over to a nearby tree and sat on the ground as she casually leaned against the trunk. Gabrielle followed with a small pouch and handed Xena a piece of cheese from the pouch and grabbed one for herself before setting the pouch down as they ate.
GABRIELLE
Do you really think we'll find it?
Xena shrugged as she chewed her bite of food.
XENA
It's only been a few weeks, Gabrielle. I'm sure the temple can't be too much further.
Gabrielle sighed as she held her food between her teeth and reached behind her to get the map that they had been following and spread it out in front of her. She took another bite of her lunch as she looked over the map.
GABRIELLE
Well according to this we should've found it by now.
Gabrielle looked at Xena.
GABRIELLE
Are you sure we're going the right way?
Xena sighed with her mouth full.
XENA
Yef I'm fure.
Gabrielle looked back at the paper and studied it.
GABRIELLE
Well for both our sakes I hope you're right. And don't talk with your mouth full.
Xena just rolled her eyes at Gabrielle's scolding comment and took another bite of food. It was quiet for a few minutes until the two heard shouting off in the distance that caught their attention. They both stood and looked off to see several figures coming over a hill. One of which was clearly being chased by the rest.
XENA
So much for a quiet lunch break.
GABRIELLE
No kidding.
Xena whistled for Argo and shoved her last bit of food in her mouth as the trusty mare came over. Xena swiftly got into the saddle and pulled Gabrielle up behind her and galloped towards the trouble, figuring they could come back for their things afterward. Once getting closer, they recognized the person being pursued and Xena urged Argo to move faster. After closing in, Xena stopped Argo as she moved Gabrielle's arms from holding around her and let out her battle cry as she lept off Argo and flew through the air. She landed behind the group and drew her sword, giving it a little twirl as she called out to the group.
XENA
Hey now four on one doesn't really seem fair.
One of the men in the group stepped forward with a scowl.
BANDIT 1
(Condescending tone) Ooo one random woman just decides to show up and play hero. Are we supposed to be intimidated or something?
Xena smirked as the man, along with the rest of his group, laughed.
XENA
You tell me.
Xena yelled as she jumped at one of the group and landed a hard boot to his chest. As soon as he fell, Xena blocked and incoming swipe of a blade. She shoved her opponent back and ducked under another incoming swing. Meanwhile, Gabrielle had gotten down from Argo and joined the fight. She twirled her staff and swung it directly into one man's jaw and dropping him, before ducking under another enemy's attack and using her staff to sweep his legs from under him, sending him crashing to the ground. During this time the men's target had become distracted by the fighting a stood by boldly cheering Xena and Gabrielle on.
JOXER
Yeah that's right, get 'em.
Joxer quickly ducked with a yell as one of the bandits threw his axe at him, and it became embedded at head level into the trunk of the tree that was right behind him. The bandit that was momentarily distracted by Joxer suddenly felt a hard blow to his face that knocked him to the ground.
JOXER
Alright Xena.
Hearing Joxer, the enemies stopped attacking and began backing away from Xena and Gabrielle.
BANDIT 1
(Nervous tone) X-Xena?
Seeing that the group had heard of her, Xena put on her best intimidating scowl as she stepped towards the group.
XENA
(Menacing tone) Clearly you've heard of me. So I'm assuming that you know exactly what I'm capable of.
The bandits nodded as they began backing away slowly, while Xena continued towards them.
XENA
(Menacing tone) Good, then you already have an idea of what I'm going to do to you for going after my friend here.
The bandits looked over at Joxer shocked that someone like him even knew Xena let alone was actually considered to be the legendary warrior's friend. Seeing this Joxer quickly spoke up as he bravely puffed out his chest.
JOXER
Uh yeah. That's right, I'm friends with Xena. I've helped her out many, many times. In fact, I remember this one time when I, Ow! Hey!
Joxer looked at Gabrielle, who was now standing next to him and had driven the end of her staff into his foot as she pretended nothing happened. Meanwhile, the bandits had lost all interest in going after Joxer and sheathed their weapons as they held up their hands in a gesture of surrender.
BANDIT 1
(Nervous tone) Now we don't want any trouble with you Xena.
XENA
Then I suggest that you forget whatever issues you have with Joxer and move along.
BANDIT 2
But he owes us money.
Xena glanced over at Joxer.
XENA
Is that true Joxer?
JOXER
Hey they were trying to rob an old woman, so I stopped 'em. It's not my fault if a kid happened to run by and swipe their coin pouch while they were distracted.
Xena returned her attention to the bandits.
XENA
Well given that you were trying to steal from an old woman and then got robbed yourselves, I'd say that's a good way of teaching you a lesson. Maybe next time you'll think twice about doing that.
BANDIT 2
We're leaving here empty-handed aren't we?
XENA
(Menacing tone) Well, if you'd rather you didn't leave at all...
The bandits looked at each other for a moment before deciding that it was smarter to cut their losses and live to fight another day.
BANDIT 1
You know what you knock off warrior wannabe, you're not worth it. So fine, we'll forget this whole thing ever happened.
Joxer scowled at the comment and was about to say something when Gabrielle stopped him.
GABRIELLE
(Talking quietly) Be quiet and let it go.
Reluctantly, Joxer complied as the bandits began walking away.
BANDIT 1
You better watch yourself little man. If you get involved in our business again, you won't get so lucky next time.
The bandits walked off as Xena sheathed her sword. She walked over to Gabrielle and Joxer.
XENA
You good?
JOXER
Oh yeah I'm fine.
Dispite his efforts to hide it, Joxer winced slightly as Gabrielle noticed a trail of blood running down his arm.
GABRIELLE
Joxer you're hurt.
JOXER
(Lying) Oh, this is nothing. It's just a scratch, really.
While Joxer tried to pretend that his wound wasn't serious, Xena knew that while not immediately life-threatening, the wound was clearly deep based off of the amount of blood that she could see running down Joxer's arm even after he placed his hand over the injury to slow the bleeding.
XENA
Trust me Joxer that's more than a scratch. You're gonna need stitches. Now come on.
Xena grabbed Joxer's good arm and began briskly walking back towards where she and Gabrielle had been eating.
XENA
Gabrielle run a head and get out our med kit. Along with some bandages and water.
GABRIELLE
On it.
Gabrielle hurried a head to do just that. It wasn't long after that Xena and Joxer made it back and Xena saw that Gabrielle had gotten everything ready.
XENA
Okay Joxer have a seat.
Joxer sat down near where Xena and Gabrielle had left their remaining lunch before they had run off.
JOXER
Guess I'm interrupting lunch.
Xena worked on threading the needle to stitch up Joxer's arm as Gabrielle knelt down and motioned for Joxer to move his hand, so she could wipe away the blood, that way Xena could see the wound better.
XENA
(Half Distracted/ Joking tone) Yup.
Once the needle was ready Xena knelt next to Joxer and took his injured arm to stitch up the wound. She looked at the injury for a moment and moved the needle in place, but didn't begin as she looked at the wound. Joxer noticed an odd expression cross Xena's face as she sat there, just seemingly staring at the wound. This somewhat concerned Joxer as he began to think that the injury might have been more serious than originally thought.
JOXER
What's wrong? Was I poisoned or something?
Xena didn't answer as she continued to stare at the wound and the blood that had once again begun to flow down Joxer's arm.
JOXER
Uh hellooo Xenaaa. I'm kinda bleeding here, so if you could start stitching I'd really appreciate that.
Again, Xena didn't respond as she began breathing a bit more heavily and tightened her grip on Joxer's arm.
JOXER
Oww hey that's too tight.
Joxer tried to pull his arm away, but was unable to break Xena's grip.
GABRIELLE
Oh no.
Realizing what was happening, Gabrielle quickly tried to get Xena's attention.
GABRIELLE
Xena, Xena let him go.
Gabrielle put her hand on Xena's shoulder and Xena looked at her as she breathed heavily, and Gabrielle saw Xena's eyes change from blue to yellow. Quickly, Gabrielle tried to get Joxer free from Xena's grasp.
GABRIELLE
Quick Joxer you gotta run.
JOXER
Wait, what's going on?
Gabrielle didn't get to answer as she was shoved a good distance away by Xena as she returned her focus on Joxer who then saw a terrifying sight looming over him. Xena the opened her mouth to reveal a set of sharp fangs as she pounced on top of him. Joxer screamed as Xena pinned him to the ground, and she brought her now exposed fangs straight for his neck.
Pt.20
Like a wild animal going after it's prey, in an untamed Bacchae frenzy, Xena brought her fangs towards Joxer's neck. Joxer screamed as he did everything he could to hold Xena back, who had pounced on top of him. He tried to push her back, but Xena ended up clawing at him with her now much longer nails thaty more resembled claws at that point. As Joxer's arms became scratched up, several of the claw marks began to bleed, which only served to propel Xena further into her bloodlust. All the while, Joxer yelled as he frantically tried to protect himself from becoming Xena's next meal.
JOXER
(Panicked tone) Ah, Xena no. Gabrielle help!
Gabrielle quickly rushed over with her staff and smacked in across Xena's back. Xena didn't even register that she'd been hit as she continued to try biting Joxer. As Joxer continued to yell, Gabrielle swung her staff again. This time catching Xena on the shoulder. While the hit was hard enough this time to get Xena's attention momentarily, she simply swiped her arm and knocked Gabrielle back as she immediately returned her focus on Joxer. As she did, Xena pinned his arms down and held his head to the side. She beared her fangs and went for the bite, but she was suddenly stopped as Gabrielle jumped on her tried to physically pull Xena back. Which wasn't exactly an easy feat normally due to the difference in their overall body types, but at that point was made all the more difficult with the additional power Xena was getting from her fully awakened Bacchae state. Even so, Gabrielle was determined to do everything she possibly could to stop Xena from killing Joxer. For not only Joxer's sake but Xena's as well. Because Gabrielle knew that Xena would never forgive herself if she regained her senses and learned that she had killed Joxer. Who though a bit annoying and goofy at points was still a really good friend to both of them. And just a good person in general.
GABRIELLE
Xena you have to snap out of it! Xena!
Gradually, Gabrielle managed to pull Xena back enough for Joxer to get his arms free. He held Xena back as he pushed himself backwards from under her. Then with an angry hiss, Xena threw Gabrielle off of her and stood up. Seeing her rise, Joxer frantically scrambled to his feet and began to run. But Xena wasn't about to let him escape and flew after him. Meanwhile, Gabrielle got up and hurried to Argo. As Gabrielle rushed to her without Xena, the mare could sense that something was wrong. She snorted and stepped in place as Gabrielle went through their packs that were attached to Argo's saddle. After a moment, Gabrielle pulled out a small container of blood and climbed onto Argo's saddle. Usually Gabrielle wasn't too comfortable riding by herself, but at the moment that was the furthest thing from her mind as she got Argo into an immediate gallop and went after Joxer and Xena. On horseback Gabrielle caught up fast as joxer tried desperately to out run Xena. Which given that she was flying simply wasn't possible. Xena closed in as Joxer yelled and Gabrielle urged Argo to go faster. The horse galloped as Gabrielle rode right up alongside Xena and got a nervous pit in her stomach as she thought of what she was about to do. But she knew there wasn't any other option and took a deep breath as she then dove from Argo's back and tackled Xena to the ground. The two tumbled a bit and Gabrielle dropped the bottle as it landed in the grass, thankfully unbroken. Once coming to a stop, Gabrielle scrambled for the small container as Xena got up. Her Bacchae side now furious that it was being denied what she craved. She turned her attention to Gabrielle as an animalistic growl came from her throat. Gabrielle felt a chill run down her spine as she suddenly sensed imminent danger and looked back to see Xena now stalking her. Knowing she was in serious trouble, Gabrielle quickly rushed to get the container of blood. She dove and went to grab it, but Xena was too fast. She caught Gabrielle by the ankle and dragged her back towards her. Gabrielle rolled over as she came face to face with Xena's full Bacchae form. Her eyes wild and hungry. Her fangs fully in view as she hissed in anger. As terrified as Gabrielle was, she pushed down her fear as she slowly and cautiously reached up and gently brought her hand to Xena's cheek.
GABRIELLE
It's okay Xena. I, I can help you.
Xena shook Gabrielle's hand away with a growl, but Gabrielle refused to give up.
GABRIELLE
I know you're still in there. And I know you won't hurt me. So please, just let me help you.
Xena showed her fangs but didn't go after Gabrielle as something deep down seemed to hold her back. Seeing that she appeared to be getting through to the actual Xena, Gabrielle did what did best and kept talking as she began reaching for the bottle that sat just a little ways away. She moved slowly as she spoke, so she wouldn't accidentally do anything the might set the Bacchae Xena off.
GABRIELLE
I'm right here Xena, and I'm gonna help you get through this. Just like you do for me. Okay.
Finally, Gabrielle felt the bottle and used her fingertips to roll it a little closer before grabbing it and bringing it towards her. Xena growled at the sudden moment.
GABRIELLE
It's okay, this is what you want.
Gabrielle held her breath in an effort to avoid running the risk of the blood triggering her Bacchae side to surface, and uncorked the small bottle. The scent of blood instantly grabbed Xena's attention as she snatched the container from Gabrielle's hands and began eagerly drinking it down. After several moments, Xena finally pulled the bottle from her lips as she caught her breath. She remained kneeling over Gabrielle and closed her eyes as her breathing gradually returned to normal. After several long moments, Gabrielle watched as Xena's eyes opened and smiled when she saw the sea of blue that had returned.
GABRIELLE
You okay now?
XENA
Think so. Thanks. Are you okay?
Gabrielle smiled as she reached up and gently wiped a bit of blood from Xena's lip.
GABRIELLE
Better now that I got you back.
Relieved that she hadn't injured Gabrielle, Xena got up and helped Gabrielle to her feet. From a distance, Joxer saw the two standing there and called over.
JOXER
Everything okay?
XENA
Yeah I'm good now.
Joxer came closer as she held his still wounded arm.
XENA
Hold on Joxer, stay there.
Joxer stopped as Xena whistled for Argo, who came over.
XENA
You think you can ride with one good arm?
JOXER
Sure, I should be able.
XENA
Good.
She patted her beloved horse and quietly said something to her before the mare walked towards Joxer.
XENA
Joxer I want you to ride back to camp and see if you can stitch your own arm. Can you do that?
JOXER
Yeah I think so.
Using his uninjured arm, Joxer pulled himself on to Argo.
JOXER
What about you two?
XENA
We're gonna walk back, slowly. We'll be sure to keep our distance until you have your wound closed and cleaned up. Just let us know when you're done.
JOXER
Sure.
With that Xena made a quick noise that got Argo moving back to camp as instructed as she and Gabrielle followed at a distant, slow pace.
XENA
How's the arm?
Joxer moved the arm that had been injured by the bandits a little and shrugged as her tried to hide his painful winse while the trio sat around the previously layed out lunch, eating.
JOXER
Oh this is nothing. It'll take way more than this to take me out.
XENA
Good to hear.
There was a bit of silence as Xena sighed to herself.
XENA
Listen I'm sorry about what happened back there. I lost control and...
JOXER
Nah, don't mention it. I know you were all Bacchaed out. It's not like you normally try drinking people's blood just for the fun of it.
Xena smirked.
XENA
(Joking) Well, not any more.
JOXER
(Nervous tone) What?
Gabrielle playfully swatted Xenas arm with the back of her hand.
GABRIELLE
She's kidding Joxer.
JOXER
(Lying) Right, I knew that.
So what are you guys doing around here anyway?
With Joxer already having been aware of them still being Bacchae from when they had met up a few months after they had discovered that fact, Gabrielle explained that they were searching for the goddess Demeter along with why.
JOXER
Bacchus' sister Demeter huh.
Joxer scratched his chin as he appeared to begin thinking about something.
XENA
What? Have you heard of her?
JOXER
I actually meet a handful of her followers a while back when I was visiting a broth...
(Lying) A brother and sister. I rescued them from some real bad guys and well I showed them.
Xena contained her smirk at Joxer's lie. Knowing full well that he was going to say brothel, and chose not to say anything about it as she got a bit of amusement from watching Gabrielle clearly trying to prevent any images of Joxer in that compactly from her mind.
XENA
Uh huh.
JOXER
Well anyway I know a town that some of them like to visit. I guess there might be a temple somewhere around there. So maybe they might know something.
Xena and Gabrielle looked at each other for a moment and smiled as they realized that this might be the best chance at finding Demeter that they've had since beginning their search. They returned their attention to Joxer.
GABRIELLE
Joxer, have I told you how happy I am to see you?
Pt.21
With Xena's Bacchae side satted and Joxer uninjured from Xena's attack, the trio stood trying to decide their next move.
GABRIELLE
You really know where we can find some of Demeter's worshipers?
Joxer smiled a somewhat cocky smile.
JOXER
That's right.
XENA
Where?
Joxer lost his grin.
JOXER
Actually I uh... can't really tell you.
Xena raised a curious eyebrow.
XENA
What did they swear you to secrecy or something?
JOXER
In a way.
GABRIELLE
What?
JOXER
Well you see they had to go into hiding because Bacchus' followers are going after them.
GABRIELLE
Why? From what Xena and I have learned, Bacchus and Demeter were close.
Joxer shrugged.
XENA
It's just a theory, but maybe his worshipers believe that Demeter could've stepped in and prevented Bacchus from being killed.
Gabrielle looked at Xena.
GABRIELLE
So you think they want some kind of revenge on Demeter and are taking it out on her followers?
XENA
Could be.
GABRIELLE
If that's true that's still terrible. They're just innocent bystanders in all of this. So if that's what's happening, we really have to find them Xena. It's our fault that Bacchus is dead. Not that I disagree with him being gone, but innocent people are being hurt because of that, and we have to do something.
Xena placed her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.
XENA
It's alright Gabrielle. We'll find them and stop Bacchus' worshipers. Then we'll find Demeter and get her to change us back to normal.
JOXER
You know I was thinking...
Gabrielle and Xena returned their attention to Joxer.
JOXER
Even if you do find Demeter, how do you plan on getting her to change you two back?
Xena smirked.
XENA
Oh don't worry about that, I have my ways.
JOXER
I'll take your word for it.
XENA
Now I get that you can't tell us where exactly Demeter's worshipers are hiding, but I'm sure you can at least tell us where you meet 'em.
JOXER
I did. The brothel.
Gabrielle rolled her eyes at the ridiculous answer Joxer gave, as Xena sighed at the dullness that their friend sometimes showed.
XENA
The village Joxer. I meant where was the village where you met. You said that they stayed nearby, so stopping by the village will be a good first place to try gathering information for finding them.
JOXER
Oh.
(Lying) I mean, yeah, I knew that.
Joxer told them where he met the worshipers, and Xena and Gabrielle thanked him before beginning to pack back up to head to the village. Once done, Xena got on Argo and waited for Gabrielle to give her her hand to pull her up.
JOXER
Wait how am I supposed to keep up if you're riding?
XENA
You're not.
Gabrielle grabbed Xena's hand as Xena helped her into her spot in the saddle behind Xena.
JOXER
Now wait a minute I just helped you and your just gonna leave?
XENA
Sorry but it's too dangerous for you to travel with us right now. You got lucky this time. But if both Gabrielle and I lose control at the same time, and you're around...
JOXER
Hey I can handle myself you know.
GABRIELLE
Sorry Joxer but I think Xena's right. We wouldn't forgive ourselves if we ended up... well, you know.
JOXER
(Sarcasm) Oh fine, I guess you don't want someone who knows the people there that can actually help you find Demeter's worshipers.
Gabrielle looked at Xena.
GABRIELLE
I guess he does have a point.
Xena sighed as she reluctantly agreed.
XENA
Maybe, but without Joxer having a horse it's gonna take us longer to get them which will put him in more danger from being around us.
Gabrielle thought for a moment about how to solve their travel issue and get an idea.
GABRIELLE
How far is the next town?
XENA
Not very, why? And before you ask, we can't afford to buy Joxer a horse.
GABRIELLE
Oh I know that, but we're still gonna have to spend a little money.
JOXER
I have a few dinars, why what's your idea.
Gabrielle explained her idea, which both Xena and Joxer agreed would probably work.
XENA
You do realize that still won't be cheap.
Xena got Argo moving slowly with Gabrielle sitting behind her and Joxer walking alongside them.
GABRIELLE
I know how to haggle.
XENA
Sure, but just how far can you really get a merchant to lower their price of something like that.
Gabrielle gave a proud smile.
GABRIELLE
Hey you have your skills, Xena and I have mine.
A while later, the trio reached a nearby city and stopped by a woodworker shop.
WOODWORKER
Are you crazy?! I can't sell you a cart for that little.
GABRIELLE
Look, it doesn't even have to be a good one.
WOODWORKER
(Insulted tone) A good one?! As if I sell one's that aren't?
GABRIELLE
(Lying) Okay fine, I didn't wanna bring this up, but I saw some of the conditions that some of your carts are in before I came here, and if I were you I'd be concerned about getting some very unhappy customers returning and demanding their money back or worse.
The man eyed Gabrielle suspiciously.
WOODWORKER
Just what are you trying to say?
GABRIELLE
(Lying/ talking loudly) Termites.
The shopkeeper looked around to inure that no one else had heard Gabrielle before returning his attention to her.
WOODWORKER
First of all of never shout the "T" word in a woodworker shop unless you want me to go out of business. And second, I know you're lying.
GABRIELLE
Are you sure about that?
WOODWORKER
Completely. In fact I'm so sure that if you show me the proof that I have...
(Whisper) termites,
I'll just give a cart for free.
GABRIELLE
Deal.
Not long after, Xena finished hooking Argo up to the small cart as Gabrielle and Joxer climbed in, and the confused woodworker looked at the cart, seeing what looked like parts that had been slightly chewed.
WOODWORKER
At least I caught it before those termites spread to my other stuff.
He looked at Gabrielle.
WOODWORKER
Are you sure you still want this cart. It's safe, but still I don't feel right for giving you damaged goods, especially if those little bastards are still crawling around in it. Honestly, I was just gonna burn it.
GABRIELLE
It's fine. My friend has a really good eye for this stuff, and she said she cleared the termites out before they caused any real damage.
Xena tossed the woodworker a small pouch for the discounted cart and climbed into the front.
WOODWORKER
Wait, you really don't need to pay.
XENA
It's fine, take it.
With a quick move of the reigns, Argo began easily pulling the cart with Xena, Gabrielle, Joxer and their things out of town and down the road. As they traveled Joxer leaned against the side of the cart, he looked at a knick out of the wood.
JOXER
Hey if this really had termites, are you sure it's safe to ride?
XENA
There were never any termites Joxer.
JOXER
But the damage to the wood?
Xena smirked as she pulled out her breast dagger and casually twirled it between her fingers as she began to casually whistle. Catching on that Xena was the one who had caused the minor damage to the cart, Joxer gave both her and Gabrielle disapproving looks.
JOXER
Hey you scammed that man.
XENA
Relax Joxer.
Xena put her dagger back.
XENA
No one got anything less than they should've. This is an old, worn down cart, and he was vastly over pricing us on it. So I made sure I gave him what it was worth, which honestly wasn't much, so I still think we over paid, but we needed it so...
And so Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer continued towards the town that Joxer had told them about in the hopes that they would find a lead on locating the goddess Demeter. But as they would soon discover once again this would be yet another task that would be easier said than done as both Xena and Gabrielle hoped that Joxer along with anyone else would be safe around them until they hopefully found Demeter and were cured of being Bacchae.
Pt.22
The wagon rolled along before being brought to a stop as the trio of Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer looked at the average village that they had arrived in after several days worth of travel after getting the old wagon. As everyone got out of the cart, Xena walked back to where Gabrielle and Joxer had existed the back of the wagon.
GABRIELLE
You're sure this is the right place Joxer?
JOXER
Yeah I'm sure.
XENA
Huh, this place doesn't look very big. Certainly not the kind of place that would get very much use out of a brothel. I doubt they get that many visitors coming through here for it to be very profitable.
JOXER
Well I'm telling you that this is where I met those Demeter worshipers.
Sensing that Joxer was getting a bit defensive thinking that she and Gabrielle thought he told them the wrong place, xena gave him a friendly pat on the back.
XENA
Relax Joxer we just weren't expecting it to be such a small village is all.
She then began walking towards a building.
XENA
Come on, let's go check around and see if anyone can tell us anything.
Gabrielle and Joxer followed behind Xena as the group entered a large building. Inside they were met with a large room with a bar on the opposite side of the room from the door. The room had several people scattered about. Some were women just casually lounging or standing around. Others were having conversations that seemed to be rather intense, as Gabrielle had noted how close those involved were to one another. Ignoring what was happening around them, Xena made her way up to the counter and motioned for Gabrielle to follow.
XENA
I guess Joxer was right about this place being here. Gabrielle, make sure you stay close to me while we're here.
GABRIELLE
What? Why?
Before Xena had the chance to answer, one of the patrons whistled towards Gabrielle and as she turned towards the noise, he patted his knee for her to come over and have a seat as another tossed a couple dinars on the table that the two were still at as he called for Gabrielle to come over so they could "get to know each other"
GABRIELLE
Never mind.
Gabrielle quickly moved closer to Xena whose hand moved to grip the hilt of her sword as she shot the patrons who had their sights set on Gabrielle a look that told them if they even thought of coming near Gabrielle they wouldn't be able to enjoy themselves at this particular type of establishment for a good while or possibly ever again. That appeared to do the trick as the patrons looked away and even went through great lengths to avoid looking in Gabrielle and Xena's direction at all. As did everyone else in the large room. Satisfied that her nonverbal threat would now be enough to keep Gabrielle or herself from being harassed any further, Xena let go of her blades handle as she, Gabrielle and Joxer finished walking up to the counter.
BROTHEL OWNER
And what can we do for you on this fine day, my good ladies and sir. If you're looking for some group fun, we can gladly accommodate. So...
Xena put up her hand to stop the woman from continuing with his sales pitch.
XENA
Sorry but we're not really here for your services. We're actually looking for some people that we think may have stopped by your establishment.
BROTHEL OWNER
Oh sorry, but we don't really take people's names here. Privacy and what not is kind of a big deal in our line of work. It just works better for helping to keep everyone involved safe. I hope you can understand.
XENA
I do. But it's very important that we find these people. We don't want names or any kind of details. We just need to know if you've seen anyone in town that could be them. Not even necessarily as customers here, just if you or anyone here has seen them around town.
The woman behind the counter thought for a moment as she looked past Xena and saw Gabrielle standing close behind her and Joxer a little to the side. Seeing them walk in together and given that Xena was the only one of the trio who actually appeared any level of Intimidating, the owner of the brothel made the judgment that they likely weren't there to cause trouble.
BROTHEL OWNER
Mmm, you seem like a group of decent people, so I suppose I can see if myself or the others working here can help you.
And so Xena began questioning if there was a temple in the area to the goddess Demeter, or if anyone might know where they could find any of her priestess' or worshipers. The brothel owner began to think if she knew anyone who might be able to help them, as Gabrielle idly looked to the side and noticed a young woman looking in their direction. At first Gabrielle didn't pay much attention and continued looking around for a few moments, but then she couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched by the woman and casually brought it up to Xena in a hushed voice.
GABRIELLE
(Talking quietly) I think we're being watched.
XENA
(Talking quietly) Oh, I'm aware. That woman has been watching us since we first stepped foot in here.
JOXER
Where? What woman?
Joxer turned around as he spoke, and the woman that had been watching them immediately got up and rushed out the front door.
XENA
(Sighing) Damn it Joxer.
JOXER
What did I do?
Xena ignored him as she hastily ran after the woman, with Gabrielle and Joxer following right behind. Xena went a head as she chased after the woman, while Gabrielle and Joxer followed not far behind. The chase lead everyone out of the small village but not much further as Xena used her super human agility to maneuver through some trees she passed by, of which she used to jump off and get a head of the woman who staggered back slightly as she saw Xena suddenly land in front of her. Seeing the obvious fear in the young woman's eyes, Xena quickly tried to explain herself.
XENA
It's alright I'm not gonna hurt you.
YOUNG WOMAN
(Nervous/ annoyed tone) Then why are you chasing me? What do you want?
XENA
I just have a few questions that's all.
The young woman gave Xena a suspicious look as she took a slow step back before stopping and looking over her shoulder when she heard footsteps coming up behind her as Gabrielle and Joxer arrived on the scene. The woman looked back towards Xena while continuing to stand between the two sides. Xena took notice of the very uneasy look that the young woman had. Motioned for Gabrielle and Joxer to join her, so the woman wouldn't feel as though they were trapping her.
XENA
Look we didn't mean to chase or scare you. We just wanted to talk.
YOUNG WOMAN
(Nervous tone) Why?
GABRIELLE
Why were you watching us back there?
YOUNG WOMAN
(Nervous tone) What makes you think I was watching you?
XENA
Because you weren't exactly being discreet. I'm pretty sure anyone who wasn't otherwise distracted noticed.
YOUNG WOMAN
(Nervous tone) Fine, maybe I was. So now what? You hunted me down, so come on. I'm not afraid of you.
The young woman drew a dagger.
YOUNG WOMAN
I refuse to become one of you.
The young woman raised the weapon high above her head and then began driving it back down. Then before anyone noticed, Xena quickly ran and caught the woman's wrist mid-swing.
XENA
Easy, there's no need for you to go to extremes. We aren't here to do anything to you. Like I said, we just wanna talk.
Xena took the dagger from the woman's hand and then let her go. The young woman backed away slightly as she kept her eyes on Xena.
YOUNG WOMAN
(Defiant tone) Yeah right. You can't fool me into thinking you "just wanna talk". I know what you are, Bacchae.
XENA
I suppose since you know what we are just from looking even when we appear normal, that confirms that you're one of the priestess' from the nearby temple of Demeter.
YOUNG WOMAN
(Muttering to herself) I can't believe I just let that slip like that.
Fine, what is it exactly that you want from me?
GABRIELLE
We need your help.
YOUNG WOMAN
My help?
GABRIELLE
Yes. We've been searching for a way to cure us of being Bacchae. We found out about Demeter and were hoping that she could help us. Which is why we were looking for any of her priestess' or followers.
YOUNG WOMAN
How do I know you're not one of those Bacchus worshipers that have been targeting us ever since word spread of his death?
XENA
Because if we wanted to attack you don't you think we would have already?
The young woman thought for a moment as she noticed Joxer and, giving that he didn't seem afraid or be there against his will, she surmised that the two Bacchae before her were likely telling the truth.
YOUNG WOMAN
Okay I suppose you have a point. But I don't know what you expect me to do. It's not as though Demeter just appears to us.
GABRIELLE
Please um...
YOUNG WOMAN
Ira.
GABRIELLE
Please Ira, if there's anything you can do, we just wanna return to normal. We don't want to spend the rest of our lives as Bacchae. We never wanted any of this. After we killed Bacchus everyone else that were charged into Bacchae returned to normal. But for some reason we didn't. We just want to go back to the way we were before, and we think that Demeter might be able to help us.
Ira thought for a moment as she noticed something that Gabrielle said.
IRA
Wait a minute, did you just say that you two killed Bacchus?
XENA
It's a bit of a long story, but yes.
IRA
And you believe that our goddess Demeter may be able to cure you?
GABRIELLE
We hope so. Even though from what we know they were close, so we're honestly not sure of what to expect if we find her.
IRA
Our goddess is a caring god who helps all who come to her. So I'm certain she'll do the same for you.
Ira smiled.
IRA
Okay, I don't know why, but something tells me that I can trust you. So if you wish to see our goddess, come with me, and I'll take you to her temple.
With that, the young priestess turned and began heading further away from town.
IRA
This way. It isn't very far.
Somewhat surprised by her willingness to help them, Xena and Gabrielle looked at each other for a moment and then shrugged as Xena then turned around and gave a loud whistle. After a few moments, Argo made her way over to them as she pulled the cart behind her. The trio and Argo quickly caught up with Ira as she led them to the temple. And as an end to Xena and Gabrielle's long nightmare seemed to be possibly coming into view, none of those there could have ever predicted what would happen once they reached the temple, where soon curing Xena and Gabrielle of being Bacchae wouldn't be the only trouble that the group would be facing. As an unseen storm was brewing, one of which neither Xena, Gabrielle or Joxer could have possibly seen coming.