Pt.23
It wasn't long until Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer arrived at the temple of Demeter after being led there by one of the temple's priestess' Ira. Gabrielle looked up at the large structure that sat on a hill overlooking the village they had come from.
GABRIELLE
Wow this temple is beautiful. Alot of the others we've seen aren't quite as eloquent as this one. Well except for maybe Aphrodite.
XENA
More like excessive and tacky.
Gabrielle nudged Xena for making the commitment about the goddess who she considered somewhat of a friend and got a quick look of indifference with a shrug in response. Not paying any attention to the brief exchange Ira pushed open the two large doors and turned to Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer.
IRA
Okay come inside, and we'll get started on summoning our goddess.
And with that the young priestess walked inside as the trio followed. Once inside they followed Ira into the main room of the temple a Joxer whistled, impressed by the lavishness of the building's interior, having not seen the inside of many temples for himself. Meanwhile, Gabrielle kept her appraisal of the building to herself, though she did find it fairly nice nonetheless. And as for Xena, she looked at their new surroundings completely unimpressed by the extent that some people would go to in order to appease the gods. For one, they were gods, so what use could they possibly have for worldly materials when they can just use their power to get whatever they could ever want. And second and honestly the biggest problem she had with offerings to the god's was the fact that the god's would accept the offerings often from those who gave without necessarily having the actual means to do so without sacrificing their own needs. And that did not sit right with Xena at all as she always felt that people didn't really need the god's for the most part anyway. Though the irony of the fact that she and Gabrielle were there seeking help from one of said god's that for the most part she didn't trust wasn't lost on Xena as she silently noted that fact to herself.
?
Oh, Ira. You're back. And I see you've brought guests.
The small group all looked towards a doorway as a few other women walked through a large curtain that hung there. Seeing that they were dressed the same as Ira, it was clear that they were her fellow priestess' of the temple.
IRA
Yes. They've been searching for our goddess for her help. Head priestess may I introduce Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer.
HEAD PRIESTESS
It's nice to meet you. Please, come and...
The older woman that was the head priestess stopped speaking and began looking at Xena and Gabrielle a bit more intensity before turning her attention but towards Ira with a scowl on her face.
HEAD PRIESTESS
Ira do you not see what these women are?
IRA
Yes head priestess. I'm very aware that they're Bacchae.
The head priestess became angrier at the younger woman.
HEAD PRIESTESS
(Angry tone) You knew and still brought them here? What in the name of the goddess would posses you to do something so incredibly irresponsible and dangerous. You know that Bacchus' followers have been hunting us since his death and yet you bring the enemy straight to us.
IRA
But they...
HEAD PRIESTESS
Whatever they might have told you they're most certainly lying. Now go to the back girl and wait for me. Once the others and myself are finished cleaning up your mess, you and I are going to have a very long talk about your irresponsible behavior and what the consequences of your actions should be.
IRA
But I...
HEAD PRIESTESS
(Stern tone) I said go.
The young woman lowered her head.
IRA
Yes head priestess.
GABRIELLE
Now wait a minute, Ira was just trying to help us. I understand that you're in hiding from those who still follow Bacchus, and we might be Bacchae but believe me we do not want anything to do with any of this. All we want is to find a way to return to normal.
The head priestess looked at Gabrielle as an even bigger scowl formed on her face.
HEAD PRIESTESS
You might have been able to fool my young protégé here with whatever sob story you told her, but you can't fool me. I won't let you or any of those other fanatics that worship Bacchus come to this temple and put any one here in harms way.
The woman stepped towards Gabrielle as she motioned towards the other priestess who in response drew daggers that were concealed beneath their robes.
HEAD PRIESTESS
Now if you truly are not our enemy, then you will leave right now and never return to this or any other of our goddess's temples.
GABRIELLE
We just want to contact Demeter. We think that she may be able to cure us. I promise we aren't here to hurt anyone. Please I don't know how much longer I can live like this. We don't wanna be Bacchae.
HEAD PRIESTESS
Say what you will, but it'll change nothing.
With that, the other priestess aside from Ira all began moving towards Gabrielle, Xena and Joxer. In response Xena quickly drew her sword and put herself in front of their group.
XENA
We aren't here for trouble. If you don't wanna help us, fine. We'll go and find another way. So just let us walk out of here peacefully and no one needs to get hurt.
HEAD PRIESTESS
You don't seriously expect us to just let you leave? You must think we're stupid. We let you go and then what? You come back later with your allies and destroy yet another temple as you slaughter more of us simply because we follow our goddess Demeter. I think not.
GABRIELLE
You don't have to do this. We really don't wanna hurt any of you.
HEAD PRIESTESS
You don't intimate us Bacchae. We may be priestess but we are not to be taken lightly.
Then without warning the head priestess swiftly drew a dagger from her robe and threw it right towards Gabrielle. The move was so fast Gabrielle didn't have time to react as it came flying at her only to be stopped barely inches from her face as Xena used her incredibly fast relexes to catch the weapon just before it hit its target. Gabrielle stepped back slightly as it registered what had just happened as Xena let go of the weapon and it dropped to the floor. She then scowled as she stepped forward.
XENA
We didn't come here to cause trouble but if you really want a fight, you've got it.
Unphased, the head priestess drew another dagger.
HEAD PRIESTESS
And I assure you Bacchae, this is a fight that we WILL win.
Then the head priestess along with the other priestess except for Ira attacked as the temple quickly erupted into chaos with Xena, Gabrielle and even Joxer went on the defensive as they attempted to fend off the priestess' without injuring them and trying to think of a way they could convince these women that they weren't the enemy. Which was proving difficult as they were currently fighting against them. But as the violence continued an unknown voice was suddenly heard that brought the battle to an abrupt hault.
?
(Angry tone) What is the meaning of this?! Any violence within these walls will be severely punished. And to any who would cause harm to these or any others who reside in these temples will suffer a far worse fate.
Pt.24
Everyone within the temple stood looking around for a moment after hearing an unfamiliar voice ring out, bringing the chaos that had been going on just a moment before to a stop. After a moment of confusion, a bright flash of light suddenly appeared within the temple. As a result, everyone there either closed their eyes, shielded them in some way or looked away entirely until the light faded. Afterward Xena, Gabrielle, Joxer, Ira and the other priestess' turned their gaze towards where the bright light had come from, which was right near the temple's altar and saw an unfamiliar woman standing before then as she casually leaned back slightly against the altar while looking at them all. She then gave a small smile and a quick wave of her hand to greet the group.
?
Hi.
The priestess were stunned for a moment until the head priestess was the first to regain her senses and quickly knelt to the ground and bowed her head before the newly arrived woman.
HEAD PRIESTESS
My goddess, please forgive us for causing a disturbance within your temple.
The woman smiled at the priestess before encouraging her to stand as she looked at the others in the room. Her face went serious as she addressed everyone there.
?
So does someone wanna tell me why you seemed to think that it was okay for you to have yourselves a brawl within one of my temples?
GABRIELLE
Your temple? Xena did you hear her? That means...
XENA
Yes. We finally found her. Demeter.
As Ira noted that this might very well be the goddess she served, she looked at the woman with a wide-eyed wonder. She had never actually seen the goddess, so she really didn't know what she might look like. Both Xena and Gabrielle were somewhat surprised by the goddess's appearance as well-being that she didn't look anything like Bacchus at all, but then again Bacchus seemed to be the odd one in that reguard as all the other gods they had seen looked very human. Which was also the case for Demeter as well, which made Gabrielle briefly wonder why Bacchus looked so different from the others. A question that she would likely never know the answer to, so she didn't ponder it any further. Instead, she kept her attention on the situation before her as the goddess stepped forward.
DEMETER
Well? Does anyone want to start talking?
The goddess stood there, tall with long blonde hair, slightly lighter than Gabrielle's that even though slightly wavy reached the middle of her back. On her head, she wore a circlet of different colored leaves and small berries. Her eyes were dark brown that was in contrast compared to her lighter hair and fair skin. She wore a long, sleeveless dress which was primarily a medium shade of orange with thin golden shoulder straps that went into the gold trim along the top of the dress. A golden sash also came down across half of her chest and flowed do at an angle to her waist as it wrapped behind her. The golden sash stopped just below her waist, with a small point in the front that went down. As Gabrielle looked closer, she noticed that the golden colored wrap had a number of intricate patterns and designs throughout it that looked to be various types of leaves and other small shapes. All in all though very stunning, compared to most of the other gods Gabrielle had seen, Demeter looked fairly ordinary. Perhaps a bit wealthy, but ordinary nonetheless. Gabrielle was then pulled from her brief assessment of the goddess when she heard the head priestess speak.
HEAD PRIESTESS
My goddess these women are the remnants of Bacchus's Bacchae. They say they're searching for a cure, but I'm certain that they're just more loyalist who blame you for his demise.
DEMETER
Is that so?
Demeter looked towards Xena and Gabrielle, and also took notice of joxer standing a little to the side.
GABRIELLE
That's not true.
The goddess gave Gabrielle a serious look as she slowly moved towards her.
GABRIELLE
(Nervous tone) Well, not completely. I mean Xena and myself are Bacchae, but we aren't allied with the people who have been attacking your priestess'.
JOXER
Yeah. Why would they be, I mean they were the ones who killed Bacchus to begin with.
The goddess stopped in her tracks as both Gabrielle and Xena looked at Joxer with very unhappy expressions on their faces.
XENA
(Irritated Whisper) You idiot, are you trying to get us killed?
JOXER
What? They wanted proof that we weren't allied with Bacchus's followers and I if you ask me being the ones that killed him is some pretty good proof.
GABRIELLE
(Irritated Whisper) Joxer did you forget the fact that Bacchus and Demeter were close?
JOXER
Oh... yeah, I guess I forgot about that part.
Joxer let out a small nervous laugh as he looked at the Demeter.
JOXER
(Nervous tone) Oh did I say killed? I actually meant didn't kill. They, uh, actually tried to help Bacchus against the other people who were the ones who actually killed him. Yeah, that's it.
Xena rubbed her forehead in frustration as she resisted the overwhelming urge to knock Joxer unconscious in a very painful manner.
XENA
Joxer.
JOXER
Yeah?
XENA
Shut up.
Finally, realizing that he wasn't helping their situation and knowing from Xena's tone that she was very annoyed, Joxer decided it was in his best interest if he listened to Xena's demand and stopped talking as he moved over the stand a safe distance from her.
JOXER
I'll just stand over here quietly.
XENA
Yeah you do that.
After giving Joxer one more glare, Gabrielle and Xena turned their attention back to Demeter. The goddess had her arms folded across her midsection as she looked at the two.
DEMETER
So a couple of my brother's own Bacchae killed him. How interesting.
Unsurprised by the fact that Demeter knew that they were Bacchae Xena spoke.
XENA
Well we didn't really have much choice.
Xena gave a brief explanation of what happened during their encounter with Bacchas.
DEMETER
I see. Well, as close as my brother and I were, I always thought his excessive desire for mortal women and changing them to become his loyal servants was a bit odd. But he was my brother and given that none of our other siblings cared for him much, I decided that as long as he didn't interfere with my business then we were fine.
XENA
(Sarcasm) How caring.
DEMETER
Think what you want, but my brother was responsible for himself. And as long as you're not here to go after my worshipers, then we have no issues.
Gabrielle and Xena looked at each other a bit surprised as they had expected the goddess to be furious with them. But not wanting to waste the opportunity, Gabrielle quickly spoke up.
GABRIELLE
Then in that case we were hoping that given the fact that you were the closest to Bacchus that you might be able to return Xena and myself back to normal. You see, ever since realizing that for whatever reason we were still Bacchae after Bacchus died, we've been searching for a cure. So please, tell us that you can return us to the way we were. Please.
Demeter looked at Gabrielle with curiosity.
DEMETER
So you're telling me that you don't want to be Bacchae. Even with all the abilities that you've gained since becoming one. Of which you mortals don't naturally possess.
GABRIELLE
Yes. The thirst for blood and the damage that we're capable of inflicting on others when that need becomes too much is something that we can't keep living with.
(Sad tone) I never wanted any of this.
Gabrielle looked at Xena for a moment as she felt Xena's hand on her shoulder before returning her attention to Demeter.
GABRIELLE
So please, we just want to go back to living our normal lives.
Demeter was silent for a few moments as everyone could see the goddess in deep thought. Finally, after running over something in her head, the goddess spoke.
DEMETER
Okay. If truly wish to be free of what you consider to be a curse, I suppose I could help you.
Gabrielle's eyes lit up at the thought of the actuality of no longer being a Bacchae finally being within reach.
GABRIELLE
Really? You'll change us back.
DEMETER
That's right. I'll cure both of you of being Bacchae.
An immense wave of relief washed over Gabrielle as she smiled and began thanking the goddess as she and Joxer began happily celebrating. But Xena on the other hand wasn't quite as excited, as she thought to herself that this was far too easy and her natural mistrust of gods was telling her that something was off. She looked Demeter right in the eye as she crossed her arms to make sure to show that she was completely intimidated by the goddess.
XENA
So what's the catch?
Hearing what Xena said, Gabrielle and Joxer stopped their celebration as Gabrielle realized that Xena was probably correct in assuming that curing them would come with some kind of string attached. Demeter smirked.
DEMETER
I see you've done this sort of thing before.
Xena didn't say anything as she waited for the goddess to name her price.
DEMETER
I see you wanna get straight to business. Okay, I can work with that.
Demeter looked at Xena and took notice of her obvious warrior presence.
DEMETER
Very well. I can see that you appear to be at least somewhat of a fighter. Am I correct?
XENA
You could say that.
DEMETER
Very good.
(Talking to herself) Very good.
Xena could see the goddess thinking again for a moment before returning her full attention to Xena once more.
DEMETER
If you truly wish to be cured then if you agree to and complete the task I give you, then I will return both of you to normal.
XENA
Alright. What's the task.
DEMETER
Prove that you aren't allied with my brother's followers that have been going after mine.
XENA
I thought we already did by the fact that we killed him.
DEMETER
You say that, but I don't know if that's actually true or not.
Xena scowled at the goddess, not the least bit amused by whatever game Demeter thought she was playing. She was about to tell her off when Gabrielle noticed this and put her hand on Xena's arm. Feeling the touch, Xena looked at Gabrielle and remembered the promise she made when she swore that she would do everything she possibly could to find a cure for them. And especially for Gabrielle. So after taking a breath to calm herself, Xena looked forward at Demeter.
XENA
Okay we'll do it. So how exactly do you propose we go about providing such a thing?
DEMETER
Simple. All you need to do is get rid of every last one of my slain brothers followers to ensure that none of them ever goes after my worshipers ever again.
This time both Xena and Gabrielle became angered by the request and for multiple reasons.
XENA
(Angry tone) Are you out of your mind? That's an impossible task, and you know it.
DEMETER
Well that's the only way I can think of that'll completely prove whether or not you can be trusted. So take it or leave it.
GABRIELLE
I won't do it. I refuse to kill innocent people just for which one of you gods they follow. Sure some might be going after your worshipers, but that doesn't mean that they're all like that.
Demeter looked at the two with complete indifference as she shrugged to herself.
DEMETER
Very well, have it your way.
The goddess stood up straight.
DEMETER
Enjoy the rest of your lives as Bacchae.
Demeter was just beginning to vanish in typical godlike fashion when one of the temple's priestess came bursting into the temple from outside.
PRIESTESS
Head priestess, head priestess we have trouble approaching.
The head priestess looked at the woman, who was trying to catch her breath after running.
HEAD PRIESTESS
What is it?
PRIESTESS
Danger. There appears to be a large group of armed people coming right for the temple.
IRA
Do you know who they are?
PRIESTESS
They appear to be Bacchus worshipers.
HEAD PRIESTESS
How many?
PRIESTESS
Not sure of the exact number, but there's a lot.
HEAD PRIESTESS
(Talking to herself) No, how could they have found us?
The older woman looked at Xena and Gabrielle with suspicion.
HEAD PRIESTESS
(Angry tone) You. I knew it. This is all just a trap. You lead them to us.
GABRIELLE
That's not true.
HEAD PRIESTESS
(Angry tone) Liar. You can't fool me, Bacchae. So we'll just have to take you out along with the rest of them.
The priestess', excluding Ira all readied their weapons to attack Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer.
IRA
Wait a minute. How can they possibly be responsible for this when we've had our eyes on them the whole time they've been here?
HEAD PRIESTESS
Don't be foolish, Ira. They obviously set this up beforehand.
GABRIELLE
That's not possible. We had no idea where this temple even was before Ira showed us.
HEAD PRIESTESS
So you claim.
GABRIELLE
It's true.
HEAD PRIESTESS
What proof do you have?
XENA
(Angry tone) You want proof?
Xena turned to look at Demeter for a moment.
XENA
All of you? Fine.
Xena looked at the priestess.
XENA
Those followers of Bacchus won't set one foot inside this temple.
HEAD PRIESTESS
And I'm supposed to believe that you're gonna stop them.
XENA
Just watch me.
And with that Xena began marching towards the door with Gabrielle and Joxer following. And as they walked away, an idea began to form within Demeter's mind as she quickly called out to the small group.
DEMETER
Wait a minute.
Xena stopped and turned towards the goddess. As did Gabrielle and Joxer.
DEMETER
You're saying that unprompted you're willing to defend this temple and it's people regardless of how you've been treated here.
XENA
I won't just stand by and allow innocent people to be slaughtered. It doesn't matter whether you help us or not.
DEMETER
Why? There's nothing in it for you.
GABRIELLE
We aren't doing this for any kind of reward. We're doing it because it's the right thing to do.
The two turned to keep going as Xena began giving out orders for defensive measures. Right away, Joxer got right to work as Ira began doing the same.
HEAD PRIESTESS
Ira! What do you think you're doing?!
IRA
Working to protect our temple.
The head priestess stood with a scowl, watching as one by one the other priestess began to reluctantly working on whatever task had been assigned to them by Xena to prepare for the incoming enemy. Wanting to see just what they were dealing with, Demeter quickly disappeared to look around. And when she did, she saw first hand just how many they were up against.
DEMETER
(Thinking to herself) This is not going to be good.
The goddess returned to the temple and continued to watch everyone scrambling to get themselves ready. Seeing that both Xena and Gabrielle appeared to be putting their all into defending her temple and her priestess, Demeter thought to herself for a few moments before getting another idea. Amidst the chaos, the goddess approached Xena and Gabrielle.
DEMETER
I think I might have another proposition for you.
XENA
I'm listening.
DEMETER
How about we do this. You defend this temple, and it's priestess, and I'll consider turning you and your friend back to normal.
Gabrielle looked at Xena to see what she thought. Being a pretty good judge of whether or not someone was lying, Xena didn't notice anything that would make her think right away that Demeter wasn't being truthful.
XENA
Alright Demeter. It's a deal.
Pt.25
With an agreement in place between Xena, Gabrielle and the goddess Demeter, it didn't take long until the temple was bustling with many of the women going about making the preparations that they had been given by Xena. However, only about ten minutes had passed when one of the priestess that had been sent outside to keep watch for Bacchus's followers came inside in a hurry.
PRIESTESS
They're here, they're here!
After giving a couple more very quick orders, Xena marched towards the doorway.
XENA
Okay, everyone knows what to do. We won't let those Bacchus worshipers near this building. Now let's move.
And with that a couple of the priestess' pulled open the large doors as Xena walked past Gabrielle and Joxer who along with a number of others followed Xena outside. Once everyone who was picked or volunteered to be on the front line were outside, the doors to the temple were shut and barricaded from within, as Xena had previously nstructed.
JOXER
(Slightly nervous tone) Gee, there's a lot more of them than I thought there'd be.
The group looked out at the incoming enemies that were not only numerous but also looked to be fairly well armed.
XENA
Not too late to change your mind about fighting with us and help hold things down inside.
Not wanting to seem cowardly, Joxer pushed down his fear as her cleared his throat as he put on a brave face.
JOXER
(Lying) What did you think I was gonna just sit inside like some kind of cowardly or something? Did you forget just who you're talking to?
Xena rolled her eyes, knowing that Joxer could sometimes be too stubborn in his heroic persona to think logically about his actual fighting abilities or lack there of to know when to stay out of a fight that he was obviously outmatched in. But Xena had expected this, so she decided to have Joxer stand guard with a couple others at the doors to the temple just to keep him away from the actual battle and still make him feel like he was doing something helpful without him getting in the way or putting himself or others in danger by mistake.
XENA
Just making sure. Now stay by the doors. You're our last line of defense.
JOXER
Got it.
Xena then moved forward with Gabrielle at her side.
XENA
Gabrielle make sure you stay close and fall back from the actual fight if things get out of hand.
GABRIELLE
You say that like I don't know how this goes already.
XENA
Just making sure.
GABRIELLE
You do realize I'm not the only one who needs to be careful. And you know what I mean.
XENA
I know. But there's nothing more we can do but try and get this over quickly.
GABRIELLE
Trust me, all of this couldn't be over with quick enough.
Knowing that Gabrielle wasn't only talking about the battle, Xena put her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder and gave her a small smile.
XENA
Don't worry it will be Gabrielle. It will be.
Gabrielle gave a little smile in return as she looked at Xena and placed her hand over Xena's. After a brief moment, the two were brought back to reality as they heard someone yelling.
IRA
Here they come!
With their weapons ready, the two then moved to the front of the small group and stood beside Ira, who had a pair of daggers drawn.
GABRIELLE
I'm still a bit surprised that so many of you priestess know how to fight.
IRA
Well we weren't born as priestess' you know.
GABRIELLE
Fair point.
And with that everyone's attention was draw to the task at hand as Xena yelled and released her chakram that she had grabbed from her hip and sent it towards the oncoming enemy. The round bladed weapon flew and slashed several enemies before bouncing off of a rock and hitting a couple more before returning and being caught by Xena. But undeterred, Bacchus's followers continued towards them as they broke into a full charge. Seeing this, everyone fighting to defend the temple did the same. The two sides clashed as the true fight began. Gabrielle ducked under a swipe of a blade and moved her staff in a low swinging motion as she took down her direct opponent and followed it up with a swift fever blow to the enemy's head to knock them unconscious, thus ending their participation in the fight. She then swiftly dodged an incoming attack as she heard Xena's unmistakable battle cry and quickly looked to see Xena almost effortlessly fighting off multiple opponents before returning her attention to her own battle. Xena's blade blocked an incoming strike as she shoved the enemy back and spun into a kick that dropped another that was coming after her. She then lept into the air as she flipped over a couple of the enemies and turned with a slash of her sword, cutting down the Bacchus worshipers in her direct reach. The fighting carried on for a bit as they did their best to defend against Bacchus's vengeful followers. One by one the bodies of the fallen began to add up as did everything else that came with a battle. Which included blood and plenty of it. Gabrielle brought her staff into the ribs of an opponent and dropped him before she herself went down to one knee. She began breathing heavily as her heightened sense of smell picked up on the scent of blood that surrounded her.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) No, not now.
While fighting, Ira noticed Gabrielle kneeling on the ground with her head hung low and, concerned that she was injured, hurried over to her.
IRA
Gabrielle are you okay?
Gabrielle took a breath as she kept her head bowed.
GABRIELLE
Get back Ira, you're not safe.
IRA
What happened?
Gabrielle didn't answer as she closed her eyes and tried to just breathe and focus on anything else other than the monster that was lurking just beneath the surface. And when Gabrielle didn't respond, worried she had been injured, Ira reached out and touched Gabrielle's shoulder.
IRA
Gabrielle?
Gabrielle swatted the Ira's hand away as she looked up at the priestess.
GABRIELLE
I said get away from me!
Ira backed away quickly as she saw the change in color of Gabrielle's eyes from green to yellow. Hearing Gabrielle yell, a few others looked in their direction including Xena who then heard one of the other women shout "Bacchae" and knew what had happened.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) No, Gabrielle.
Xena then heard another shout from the direction that the Bacchus worshipers had been coming and turned as she ducked under another enemy's attack as she countered by driving her blade into their stomach before kicking them off her sword and rushing towards Gabrielle before the dying enemy even hit the ground. But as fast as she ran, Xena was too late, as she stopped dead in her tracks when she saw Gabrielle stand.
XENA
Gabrielle?
Upon hearing her name, Gabrielle turned around and Xena saw that she had transformed into her full Bacchae state.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) This isn't gonna be good.
Gabrielle, come on I know you're in there. You can fight this. I know you can.
Gabrielle hissed as one of Bacchus's followers came at them, not noticing Gabrielle's transformation. Then before Xena could react, Gabrielle lunged at the worshiper and brought him to the ground as she proceeded to sink her fangs into the man's neck. He screamed in agony and terror as Xena attempted to get Gabrielle off of him, knowing that Gabrielle would feel awful if she killed someone like this, as they had sadly done before. Finally, after some effort, Xena was able to pry Gabrielle away from the Bacchus worshiper and tossed her aside. But as Xena looked down, she saw that there was nothing that could be done. Even though this was their enemy, being killed by get feed upon or having your neck and throat torn apart was a horrible way to die. And before Xena knew it, the worshiper was dead. As she looked up from the body, Xena saw Gabrielle rush by her and take down another one of the enemy. She then swiftly moved on to a small group of Bacchus followers and Demeter's priestess' that were fighting. Xena ran after her as she saw Gabrielle use her Bacchae claws to slash at and cut down the enemy. As the Bacchus followers fell, Gabrielle turned to face the priestess. She slowly stepped towards them as blood dripped from her mouth and claws. She hissed as she bore her fangs and moved closer as the Demeter worshipers tried to back away. But it was no use as with a feral growl, Gabrielle suddenly launched herself forward, transferring into her wolf form mind flight.
XENA
Gabrielle no!
A couple of Demeter's priestess fell to the ground, and Gabrielle landed on top of one. The terrified priestess screamed, as Gabrielle let out a howl before jumping forward again and this time sinking her teeth into a Bacchus worshiper that had been coming up behind the priestess. The worshiper fell, and Gabrielle immediately went for his throat and killed him. The wolf form then set her sights on another pair fighting and again went after the enemy they had been fighting while leaving their ally alone before continuing on in this same pattern. And so convinced that somehow Gabrielle had managed to maintain some kind of control over herself to not attack their allies, Xena continued fighting as did everyone else though feeding uneasy about fighting alongside a fully transformed Bacchae. But in spite of the discomfort of the odd situation it appeared to be working as Xena, Gabrielle and the others were beginning to push back the attacking forces. As they began to gain the upper hand, the group as a whole proceeded to push forward forcing Bacchus followers to began being driven further away from the temple, with Xena and Gabrielle leading the charge. The fighting carried on as still in her wolf form, Gabrielle jumped at one of the Bacchus followers. The worshiper yelled as Gabrielle came at her. In a desperation and panic, he worshiper wildly swung her dagger. And just as she swung, Gabrielle jumped at her. It was only a couple seconds later when Xena heard a noise that sounded like a whimper and looked up ahead to see a golden colored wolf laying on the ground.
XENA
Gabrielle!
Xena quickly pushed her way past the enemies and got to where Gabrielle layed. She knelt down as Gabrielle whined while trying to lift her head to look at Xena.
XENA
Shhh.
Xena gently put her hand on Gabrielle's fur covered upper body.
XENA
Don't try to move.
Gabrielle whimpered again as she laid her head back down. As she did, Xena began pushing apart the blood covered fur until she found the large gash that ran up most of the length of Gabrielle's wolf body. And not only was the wound Gabrielle had suffered long, but it was fairly deep as well. So deep that if she wasn't worked on immediately, Gabrielle likely wouldn't make it. Xena felt her anger beginning to grow, which always had a direct impact on her Bacchae side. So knowing this, Xena quickly yelled to Ira who came over and stood stunned by what she saw.
IRA
Oh no... isn't that...
XENA
Yes.
Xena took a breath as she tried with everything she had to maintain her senses as long as she could but knew that it wouldn't be long.
IRA
Gabrielle...
XENA
Listen to me Ira, I don't know how much longer I can keep myself together so you need to pay attention.
Xena growled as she felt every bit of her Bacchae blood racing and pushing her closer to losing control.
XENA
I need you to take Gabrielle back to the temple. Ask Demeter if she can save her.
IRA
I can try, but I really didn't know if she'll just do that without something in return.
Xena snapped at Ira as her eyes began to change from blue to yellow, but what Ira didn't know was that this was a different shade than normal as Xena's eyes were becoming more of a golden color.
XENA
I don't care what she wants afterward. Just do it. Now go!
The sound of Xena's:voice along with the change in her eyes caused Ira to feel extremely fearful. So, not wanting to find out what might happen to her if she didn't do as Xena asked, Ira agreed. She called over another priestess to help her carry Gabrielle back to the temple and shuttered when she heard what sounded like a loud, distorted animal like roar. And when she momentarily glanced back at Xena a cold chill ran down her spine as she saw Xena's body beginning to shift and morph into what in a matter of moments would look like something that she couldn't even think to imagine in her worst nightmares. Which was what everyone who stood in Xena's way while she was in this new state would suffer, even in the afterlife that they would very quickly and brutally be sent to in only a matter of minutes.
Pt.26
As Ira looked back towards Xena while helping carry Gabrielle's limp wolf form back to the temple, she saw Xena standing there, clearly breathing heavily until she threw her head back and let out a sound that was a mix between a yell of rage and anguish and an animalistic roar. Upon hearing this, everyone around Xena paused for a moment as many moved further away from her. The sound sent a cold fear throughout Ira's body as well as Joxer's who had heard the sound from the temple. Wanting to know what was happening, he carefully moved towards the sound and quickly met up with Ira and the other couple of priestess who had Gabrielle.
JOXER
What's going on? What was that?
IRA
I can't say sure, but I think it might've been Xena.
JOXER
Xena? Come on, I know Xena might be able to do alot of things, but that noise couldn't have been her. What ever made that sound didn't even sound human.
IRA
Exactly.
Ira and the others continued passed Joxer into the temple. As they went by, he saw the golden wolf that was now covered in crimson in their arms. He was confused as he had never seen Gabrielle in her wolf form before and the temple was too far back from the actual fighting for him to have witnessed any of what had happened during the battle.
JOXER
Hey what's with the wolf?
IRA
It's not an actual wolf, it's Gabrielle. And she's been seriously injured.
With that Ira and the others disappeared inside along with Joxer who upon hearing that Gabrielle was in trouble became very worried. Once inside the temple, the other priestess were momentarily confused when Ira brought in what they thought was a bloody wolf carcass.
HEAD PRIESTESS
(Stern tone) Ira what is the meaning of this? You know that our goddess doesn't like animal sacrifices being brought within her temple.
JOXER
This isn't a sacrifice. It's Gabrielle.
HEAD PRIESTESS
Gabrielle?
IRA
The smaller blonde Bacchae.
The younger priestess looked at Demeter, who was still there and opened her mouth to ask for her help when a loud roar echoed through the air. A number of the people within the temple including Joxer and Ira moved to the doorway and front windows. And as they looked outside, what they saw were the rest of the priestess scrambling away from a large dark figure that stood facing Bacchus's followers. Joxer gulped nervously dispite being inside as he layed eyes on what stood outside not too far away.
JOXER
(Nervous tone) Uh, where's Xena?
IRA
I'm pretty sure we're looking at her.
Joxer laughed nervously as he took in the terrifying sight.
JOXER
You know, I'm not sure if that makes me feel like we're all gonna be safe or completely doomed.
The feeling Joxer expressed was shared by everyone else there as many of them looked on while Ira and Joxer turned their focus to Gabrielle and trying to save her. There was another loud roar from outside as a number of the priestesses looked on. A tall figure stood before Bacchus's followers and bore sharp teeth throughout its mouth with a feral snarl. The figure was dark as a few of the priestess ventured slightly outside to get a better view of the unknown figure. As they did, the woman saw what appeared to be a large creature covered from head to toe in pitch black fur. It stood mostly upright and seemed to have the head and tail of a monstrous wolf. The creature's hand brandished large, sharp claws. As did its toes. From the top of its head seemed to flow a long black mane that, like the rest of the creature's shorter fur, shimmered in the light. The piercing eyes of the creature darted around for a moment as if unsure of its surroundings before turning focused as the creature let out another terrifying roar.
JOXER
I can't believe it. You're seriously telling me that thing out there is really Xena.
IRA
Yes Joxer. That creature really is her.
Meanwhile, unaware of the fact that she was being watched as her anger and grief had triggered her into a state of only wanting to rip apart anything within her reach, Xena's mind had become clouded by only thoughts of sinking her teeth and claws into whatever stood before her. Her conscious mind buried deep within the darkness that had taken over after seeing what had happened to Gabrielle. Now all that remained was a rage-fueled bloodthirsty monster. A truly terrifying sight for Bacchus's followers, as several that were closer to Xena, began backing away slowly. Some stayed in places, unsure if they should move or not. Others stood firm, unintimidated by the creature now standing before them. And some shook in their boots before hearing Xena let out another roar and charge at the closest to her, as several of the trembling worshipers finally decided to turn tail and run, hearing screams of agony and fear behind them as they fled the scene and never looked back. But for those unfortunate enough to be caught by Xena suffered a gruesome fate as she ruthlessly and ferociously used the incredible enhancement to her already natural superior speed and power to take down everything that came within her grasp. This monster wolf that Xena had become pounced on one of the attacking worshipers and raked her claws across his flesh, tearing it open. His agonizing cries for help filled the air as Xena ripped open more skin as blood began to spatter from her frenzied attacks. It wasn't long until the screaming stopped and Xena stood with her claws and patches of fur now coated in blood. Paying no mind to the now gruesomely gutted corpse, Xena rushed towards her next prey that she locked eyes on. More horrific screams rang out as Xena mercilessly slaughtered another one of Bacchus's followers, and then another. By this time, most of the priestess who had been looking on from within the temple had stopped watching, unable to stomach the gruesome manner of which many of those who had fallen were killed. The slaughter continued until as the last of the few surviving Bacchus worshipers ran off and faded from view as a painful gasped rang out from the final Bacchus's worshiper that had been caught by Xena who had buried her claws deep into their stomach. Then with a swift motion of her arm, Xena's claws tore a long, gapping wound across their stomach. Blood began to flow from their mouth as their insides began to spill out, and they joined the rest of the slain on the ground surrounding Xena who roared as she stood alone amongst the dead.
IRA
(Quiet/ stunned tone) Unbelievable. She took out the majority of the enemy by herself.
JOXER
I didn't even know that Bacchae could do that.
DEMETER
I've never heard of such a thing. Though Bacchae can take on various forms, so I suppose it isn't impossible.
JOXER
No kidding.
As they spoke, Xena's ears twitched as her extraordinary hearing picked up on the voices coming from within the temple. She sniffed at the air and growled as she turned towards the building. Blood dripped from Xena's claws as she moved towards the temple. Her sights set on her new prey.
JOXER
(Nervous tone) Is she coming this way?!
Realizing that now appeared to be in even more danger than before, the head priestess looked at the others in the room.
HEAD PRIESTESS
Hurry, lock the doors. Everyone, grab anything you can and block the entrance. If that thing gets in here, we're all dead.
Immediately, everyone began moving everything possible towards the doors that were shut and locked. Afterward everyone moved to the back of the room as they heard Xena pounding and clawing at the doors as she roared, snarled and growled while trying to get in. After several moments, the items that had been used to barricade the doorway began to fall from the pile as the beastly Xena was unrelenting in her pursuit of everyone inside.
JOXER
(Scared tone) There wouldn't happen to be another way out of here, would there?
IRA
Unfortunately no.
JOXER
(Sarcasm) Oh, that's just great. So I guess we just stand around and wait for Xena to get in and...
Before Joxer could finish, the doors burst open, and the wolf monster Xena stepped inside with a growl. She beared her teeth as she stalked her way towards the terrified, huddled group. With no way out and no one there to save them, all seemed lost for Joxer, Ira and the rest of priestess' as Xena roar once more before launching herself towards the group as horrified screams echoed from the temple.
FINALE
With a fierce roar, the monsterous wolf-like creature that Xena had become lunged for the huddled and terrified group of Joxer, Ira and the rest of Demeter's priestess'.
JOXER
(Terrified tone) Xena no!
Suddenly, a bright light flashed, and the goddess Demeter appeared between Xena and the others. She raised her hand as Xena lept through the air at her. But just before Xena could reach the goddess, she found herself stopped and held in midair. She growled and snarled ferociously at the goddess as she struggled to get free with no success, which only seemed to enrage Xena further. Unaffected by the beastly form before her, Demeter moved closer to Xena as she remained suspended. Meanwhile, Joxer, Ira and the other women looked on as many breathed a small sigh of relief as they saw Demeter. The goddess stood right in front of Xena who continued trying to get loose but was unable as Demeter reached and placed a hand atop Xena's fur covered head. Immediately, Xena growled as she attempted to move her head away and attack. But found herself completely immobile.
DEMETER
It's okay. I can help.
Then after the goddess spoke, a light began radiating from her hand. It began as a soft glow that could barely be seen within the black fur. However, it took just a couple seconds before the light began to shine brighter. And continued to do so. As the light grew in brightness, it also began to spread out from beneath Demeter's palm and flow across Xena's body. It wasn't long before the light coated Xena entirely. All the while continuing to grow brighter and brighter. Because of this it wasn't long until the light completely engulfed Xena leaving only a blindingly bright silhouette of the wolf creature. Once this happened, Demeter held her hand in place for a few more seconds before pulling it away and standing there. The light then grew even brighter, forcing everyone except the goddess to squeeze their eyes shut. Then as the intense light filled the temple, the glow surrounding Xena's body burst into tiny bits that scattered around and quickly faded away as everyone opened and unshielded their eyes to see Xena standing there looking like her usual self. She stood there for a moment and lifted her hands slightly in front of her and looked at them, seeing that they were normal once more. Her mind becoming clear, Xena looked up from her hands and at Joxer, Ira and the others, who were now much more relaxed after seeing Xena revert to her natural state. She then looked at the goddess, who smiled.
DEMETER
There we are. Back to normal, just as I said.
Xena lowered her hands.
XENA
Thank you. I don't know how that happened, I just... Gabrielle, she...
As soon as Gabrielle came to mind, the panic of losing her hit Xena hard as she turned and immediately started looking for her.
XENA
Wait, Gabrielle, where is she?
After a moment, Xena spotted her laying on an altar where she had been placed just before the doors were barricaded. Quickly, Xena hurried over and stood before her.
XENA
Gabrielle?
Xena slowly reached out and put her hand over Gabrielle's furry neck. She saw her eyes were closed and didn't open when Xena touched her.
XENA
No... no, please. Gabrielle.
Xena could feel the tears welling up in her eyes as she tried to find some kind of pulse or heartbeat beneath the blood covered fur. As she did so, Demeter walked up to stand beside her.
DEMETER
She means a great deal to you, doesn't she?
Xena looked over at the goddess as a couple of tears escaped her eyes and fell.
XENA
More than anything I could ever say.
Demeter looked at Gabrielle for a moment.
DEMETER
The both of you did defend my temple and its priestesses.
Xena watched as Demeter moved her hand to lay it on Gabrielle's side. Then, as with Xena, it was only a matter of seconds before Gabrielle's body began to radiate with light. Before long the light had grown increasingly bright until, like the others, Xena was forced to shut and shield her eyes. After a moment it began to fade and Xena returned her gaze towards Gabrielle and saw that, though still engulfed in the fading light, she was no longer looked like a wolf. Instead, Xena saw the familiar features that she had grown to love so much. As the last bit of light disappeared, Xena saw Gabrielle's eyes still closed.
XENA
Gabrielle?
Hesitantly, Xena slowly reached and brushed some of Gabrielle's hair away from her face. She lightly brushed her thumb against Gabrielle's cheek as she cupped her face in her hand.
XENA
Hey can you hear me?
Xena watched anxiously as a pair of green eyes finally opened slowly and saw her looking down at them, before a big smile crossed her face.
GABRIELLE
Xena?
Xena assisted Gabrielle as she sat up and locked around to see that they were back inside Demeter's temple. She then noticed Joxer, Ira and the other priestess all looking at her with relieved and happy looks on their faces.
JOXER
Gabby, you're okay.
Joxer gave a slightly nervous look Xena's way, who just stepped back before he moved in and pulled Gabrielle into a hug before pulling away after a long moment.
JOXER
You are okay, right?
GABRIELLE
Yes Joxer, I'm okay. In fact, I'd say that for whatever reason I feel better than I have in a very long time.
DEMETER
Well being releaved of something you've been carrying for a while will do that.
Gabrielle looked at Demeter.
GABRIELLE
Huh?
DEMETER
You held up your end of the deal by defending the temple so as I like to think that I'm a goddess of my word, I did as I said.
Gabrielle could hardly believe her ears as she looked at the goddess as she dared to hope that what she thought had happened was really true.
GABRIELLE
Wait, so you're telling me that you cured us. Neither Xena nor I are Bacchae anymore?
DEMETER
That's right. That was our agreement, after all. You defended my temple, so I cured you both.
Gabrielle smiled as she turned to Xena.
GABRIELLE
Xena we're finally cured. We're not Bacchae anymore.
Unable to contain her happiness, Gabrielle threw her arms around Xena who smiled and held Gabrielle in return as she smiled.
XENA
(Half joking) See I promised you I'd find a way to change us back, didn't I?
GABRIELLE
You did. Thanks for never giving up. Even when I did.
XENA
I was the whole reason we were even in this mess to begin with. So I was never going to stop searching for a way to change us back. One more wrong that I had to make right.
The two separated as Gabrielle remembered that they had been defending the temple before everything went blank as she looked to see that everyone was safe, and the temple was still standing before looking back at Xena.
GABRIELLE
Hey what happened with defending the temple and priestess' anyway?
Joxer and Ira all took turns explaining how the Bacchus worshipers were defeated and chased off. Afterwards Gabrielle stood there and looked at Xena not fully believing everything that had been said.
GABRIELLE
So you saw what happened to me, and then you became some kind of monster wolf creature and took care of the rest of Bacchus' followers by yourself.
Xena shrugged.
XENA
Yeah I guess so. Though after I saw you go down everything else gets a little fuzzy, so I don't really remember what happened. One minute I'm looking at you on the ground and the next thing I know I'm in the temple with Demeter standing in front of me.
JOXER
Well I know I'll never forget what happened, that's for sure.
Xena turned towards Joxer.
XENA
Listen Joxer for what it's worth I'm sorry for trying to kill you... again.
Joxer leaned casually against a pillar as he shrugged and tried to play off just how terrified he had really been.
JOXER
(Joking) You know Xena if you keep doing that I'm gonna start thinking you don't like me or something.
Xena smiled as she gave Joxer a light, friendly jab on the arm.
XENA
No you might drive me crazy at times, but I'm happy that I can call you my friend. Thanks Joxer, we wouldn't have been able to find Demeter if it weren't for you.
Joxer smiled as he straightened up.
JOXER
Nah it's no big deal. I'm just happy that all of this Bacchae stuff is finally over.
GABRIELLE
You can say that again.
Gabrielle turned her attention to Demeter and thanked the goddess for finally putting an end to their extended nightmare. Demeter smiled.
DEMETER
Well maybe after what happened here today, thanks to the two of you, Bacchus's followers will now think twice before attacking my worshipers.
IRA
Yeah, seeing your comrades get torn apart by a literal monster would probably be enough to scare off any sane person for good.
HEAD PRIESTESS
(Admonishing tone) Ira, don't you think that's a little rude to say?
Realizing that her comment was insensitive giving that neither Xena nor Gabrielle wanted those abilities to begin with as well as how traumatic it must've been for Xena to see what happened to Gabrielle for her to go through such a metamorphosis, Ira immediately regretted her statement and looked at Xena.
IRA
Sorry, I didn't mean to make light of what happened. I can't imagine what you must've been feeling.
XENA
Don't worry about it. And you aren't exactly wrong about the likelihood of not needing to worry about those guys anymore. So I suppose in the end something good did manage to from this whole mess.
GABRIELLE
And now it's finally over, and we leave this all behind once and for all.
Xena smiled as she put her arm around Gabrielle's shoulders.
XENA
Yeah. Now I don't know about you, but it's been a long day and I could really use a good meal and a long night's sleep.
GABRIELLE
I couldn't agree more.
So after thanking everyone for the help and saying goodbye, Demeter disappeared and Xena, Gabrielle and Joxer left the temple and found a small spot to set up camp for the night as it was nearly dark by the time that they had gotten there. After getting a fire going and settling down, Xena went and caught their dinner. Afterward all three worked to prepare the meal and let it cook. While cleaning up, Gabrielle looked at the blood on her hands before she washed them off and just wanting to make sure that she really wasn't a Bacchae anymore, she gave her hand a small lick and gagged immediately at the slightly metallic, salty taste. Hearing the noise, Xena looked over towards Gabrielle from her spot by the fire and asked if Gabrielle was okay.
GABRIELLE
Yup I'm good.
(Lying) Just swallowed a bug, that's all.
Gabrielle didn't want to admit to doing something so silly and figured it wasn't a big deal. Though unknowingly to her, Xena had seen her and understood that Gabrielle just wanted to make sure that they really were cured of being Bacchae. She thought that the lie was unnecessary, but Xena played along anyway as she knew that it would likely take some time for them both to readjust to living their normal lives without needing to worry about dealing with their Bacchae sides anymore.
XENA
(Joking tone) Well, don't fill up one too many, or you'll spoil your appetite for dinner.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Funny.
It wasn't long after that the trio sat around the fire and ate. The night went on uneventful as morning came and after a bit of travel they soon found themselves at a fork in the road they had been idly walking.
JOXER
So now that you two aren't Bacchae anymore, what's the plan?
XENA
Don't know, but I'm sure we'll figure out something.
GABRIELLE
We always do. How 'bout you, Joxer?
Joxer made an exaggerated heroic laugh.
JOXER
The work of Joxer the mighty is never done. For wherever danger lays and people are in need of a hero...
Joxer carried on with his monolog as Xena and Gabrielle exchanged a look that said that it was time for them to part ways with their enthusiastic friend once again. Because as good of a person and friend that Joxer was, his tendency to fall into his over the top heroic persona and get himself into situations he couldn't handle because of that made being around him for too long a bit tiring for Xena and Gabrielle. Not that they didn't like Joxer the way he was, it was just better and safer for everyone if he didn't travel with them all the time. And so as joxer carried on, Gabrielle leaned close to Xena so Joxer wouldn't hear her.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) I think it's your turn to come up with something.
Xena sighed as she quickly thought of a way to get Joxer to leave without hurting his feelings. She then pretended to hear something and went off to investigate the fake noise. After a moment she returned.
XENA
(Lying) Looks like we've got trouble.
Following what Xena was doing, Gabrielle played along.
GABRIELLE
What's wrong?
XENA
(Lying) Cyclopes' Big ones, and a good number of 'em too.
GABRIELLE
What do we do?
XENA
(Lying) Well given the direction they're heading I don't think they're going towards any villages, but I think it might be a good idea to trail them for a bit just to make sure.
Not wanting to jump right into yet another dangerous situation and possibly get pummeled into the ground by a giant cyclops, Joxer suddenly found himself needing to be anywhere but where he currently was.
JOXER
(Lying) You know I really wish I could stay and help you guys out with that, but I just remembered that I have to go attend mom's birthday party in a few days so if I don't get going now I'll miss it.
Xena smirked at the obvious lie that Joxer had also used last time he wanted to make a quick exit.
XENA
Well it would make you a bad son if you miss your own mother's birthday now, wouldn't it?
JOXER
(Lying) Yeah, so you understand why I can't stay and help you guys.
GABRIELLE
Don't worry about it Joxer. Go celebrate your mother's birthday.
JOXER
Thanks for understanding. I'll see you guys later.
Joxer began walking down one path of the crossroads they had been standing at before turning to wave back at Gabrielle and Xena.
JOXER
Until we meet again, my friends.
And with that Joxer hurried off as Xena and Gabrielle watched until he was out of sight to look at each other and laugh a little.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) You know at the rate Joxer's mother is having birthdays, I can only imagine how old she must be by now.
XENA
(Joking) Now come on Gabrielle, you know it's not polite to speculate about a woman's age.
The two laughed a bit as they began walking down the other road that was ahead of them that Joxer hadn't.
GABRIELLE
So where are we heading?
XENA
Who knows. Guess we'll have to see where this road leads.
(Joking) Maybe we'll get lucky and run into Empusa or something.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Very funny.
Trust me, after everything with Bacchus and living with being a Bacchae for all that time, right now the last thing I wanna do is deal with some demon that preys on human flesh and blood.
XENA
(Joking) Oh come on Gabrielle, where's your sense of adventure?
GABRIELLE
Anywhere that doesn't involve monsters or demons of any kind.
XENA
(Joking) Oh, you're no fun.
Xena chuckled as Gabrielle gave her a playful backhand in her stomach. The two walked on with Argo as they at long last were able to put behind them all the trouble and heartache that had occurred since their encounter with Bacchas. As they laid to rest, everything that occurred that started by with just one bite.
THE END❤
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