Pt.13
The search for the rest of the sin demons continued, as Xena and Gabrielle found themselves in yet another city. Though things didn't seem quite as chaotic as what they had been dealing with.
GABRIELLE
There must not be anything here.
XENA
We can hope.
As they looked around the city a bit, they couldn't help but notice that something about the city just didn't feel right.
GABRIELLE
You know for such a big city, there doesn't seem to be many people around.
XENA
Yes. There's something strange going on here.
GABRIELLE
Could it be another demon?
XENA
Given that recently everything weird that's been happening has been because of those demons, I'd bet my last denar that's what's going on here too.
GABRIELLE
But it seems so calm. We already got rid of the Sloth demon. What other demons could cause this?
XENA
Exactly it's too calm for a city of this size in the middle of the day. I don't know which of them are here, but this whole situation has demon written all over it.
GABRIELLE
Guess we should figure out what one we're dealing with and get rid of it.
XENA
Let's look around and see what we can find.
The two of them walked around the empty streets of the city. It was like a ghost town.
GABRIELLE
This is too weird. It's as if the city's been abandoned.
XENA
Yeah but....
Xena paused.
GABRIELLE
What?
XENA
I hear people.
Gabrielle listened.
GABRIELLE
It sounds like their in trouble.
XENA
Come on its coming from the tavern.
Xena and Gabrielle quickly raced to the town's tavern. Once they got there, without hesitation Xena flung open the door. But what they saw was something that they certainly were not expecting.
GABRIELLE
Uhhhh... I'm gonna go back outside.
Gabrielle and Xena turned around and went back outside.
XENA
Well I think we know what demon we're up against here.
GABRIELLE
That's definitely one way to put it.
Xena chuckled slightly.
GABRIELLE
Okay now that we know what demon is here, how do we find it?
Xena thought for a moment.
XENA
Based on the others, it might be an area of effect situation. So the more people we see affected by the demon's influence, the closer we probably are to it.
GABRIELLE
True. But based on this one that means that people who are under this demons control will be...
Gabrielle felt her face getting slightly warm. Xena noticed her cheeks turning slightly pink.
XENA
What's wrong with you? Since when are you so bashful about this sort of thing. It's just sex.
GABRIELLE
I'm not. But It's not like I enjoy just waking in on that so unexpectedly.
Xena laughed.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Yes Xena that's very funny.
XENA
Alright let's get this over with and find that lust demon.
And so Xena and Gabrielle began their search for the demon Lust.
GABRIELLE
How do we even begin to look for this one.
XENA
What do you mean? The same way we've been looking for them. We follow our way to the area that's effected the most. And that should be where we find the demon.
GABRIELLE
That's my point. What do you expect us to do Xena? Run around town looking in on people while they're.... you know.
XENA
Having sex.
Gabrielle sighed.
GABRIELLE
I was trying not to put it so bluntly, but yes.
XENA
What? Sometimes it's just easier to get straight to the point.
GABRIELLE
(Slightly annoyed) Okay fine. The point is we can't just go barging in on people like that.
XENA
Like I don't know that. Come on Gabrielle give me some credit. You didn't actually think that was my plan for finding Lust did you?
GABRIELLE
You said we were going to follow the trail of people effected the most. What else would I take that to mean?
XENA
I suppose you have a point there. But relax that's not what we're gonna be doing. We're just gonna walk around town and keep our eyes open for anything suspicious that might lead us to the demon. That's what I meant.
GABRIELLE
Okay let's go then.
Xena bagan to walk off.
XENA
(Talking to herself) Geeze when did she become so uptight?
GABRIELLE
You say something Xena?
XENA
(Lying) Uh let's search this house on the right.
And so Xena and Gabrielle's search for the Lust demon continued. They did their best not to just barge in to the various places they searched. Not wanting to continously walk in on people during their most intimate moments. Though actually finding the demon this way was going to be far more difficult than they expected. And what would happen if one or both of them were to fall under the spell of this demon. They needed to find Lust and hopefully nothing would happen when they did.
Pt.14
Lust continued to elude Xena and Gabrielle as they kept up their search for the demon. Other than the fact that the people of the city were clearly under it's spell, there didn't seem to be any sign of the demon. And the fact that they were dealing with the demon Lust made it more difficult to search for it thoroughly without repeatedly walking in on people while they were acting on the demons influence. Still they searched the whole exterior of the town and peaked into most of the buildings, but came up empty handed.
GABRIELLE
This demon's alot more difficult to find then I thought it would be.
Xena thought for a moment, then signed. Clearly unhappy with the thought she just had.
GABRIELLE
What is it?
XENA
I think I know why we can't find the demon.
GABRIELLE
Why?
XENA
Because we're not looking in the right places.
GABRIELLE
What do you mean by "the right places"?
XENA
Just think about it for a minute Gabrielle. If you were the demon in this scenario. And you didn't want to be found, where would probably be the best place for you to hide?
GABRIELLE
Obviously where I didn't think anyone would look.
XENA
Exactly. And where haven't we been looking or rather avoiding.
It didn't take long for Gabrielle to get what Xena was getting at.
GABRIELLE
Oh no Xena. I thought you said that we weren't going to go barging into places like this for obvious reasons.
XENA
Hey I'm not thrilled about it either.
GABRIELLE
Oh really. What happened to,
(Mocking tone) it's just sex.
Xena gave her a slightly annoyed look, then gave a defeated sigh.
XENA
Look, no matter how either of us might feel about doing this I don't think we're left with much choice here. We need to set these people free from Lust's hold over them. And in order to do that, we have to find this demon and get rid of it.
GABRIELLE
(Sighs) And in order to do that we need to do a thorough search of anywhere that the demon could be hiding. Including the places we don't necessarily want to look. Meaning the city's interiors, which is where everyone being affected by Lust's power seems to be. I get it. You're right, that probably is where the demons been hiding.
Gabrielle looked around at all the buildings.
GABRIELLE
Even without that fact this is still gonna be difficult. This city's huge. We've got alot of ground to cover.
XENA
Then we better get going before Lust decides to move on and we lose it's trail completely.
Xena began making her way for the nearest building.
GABRIELLE
Let's this over with.
Xena and Gabrielle proceeded to expand their search for the demon to the city's interiors. Each building they entered they tried their best to try and ignore any scene they may have stumbled upon. Keeping their focus on the task at hand. As they looked, Xena and Gabrielle came to yet another house to search. They went inside and looked around most of the house before coming to the last room. Xena opened the door. But quickly shut it again. After seeing the extremely racy scene on the other side, it was enough to even cause Xena to slightly blush.
XENA
Well it's not In there.
GABRIELLE
Nope.
XENA
(Joking) Although that does give me some ideas.
Gabrielle gave her a disapproving look.
GABRIELLE
Don't even think about it.
She shook her head as she began walking away.
XENA
What? It was a joke.
Xena followed after her as they finished their search of the house and left. Still not finding the demon. As they kept up their search dispite not seeing any direct signs of Lust, they could tell that they must've been getting close.
GABRIELLE
You were right people around here seem to be more heavily affected. We have to be getting close.
Xena didn't say anything as she looked out at the city. Gabrielle nudged her, getting Xena's attention.
XENA
Huh?
GABRIELLE
You didn't hear a word I just said did you?
Xena rubbed her forhead for a moment.
XENA
Sorry what were you saying?
Gabrielle looked at Xena closely.
GABRIELLE
Are you feeling okay?
XENA
(Lying) Yeah I'm fine.
Gabrielle could tell that something was wrong. She knew Xena all too well. Then she realized what must've been happening.
GABRIELLE
You're starting to feel the effects of the demon aren't you?
XENA
Don't worry about it. I'll be alright. Let's keep looking.
Xena took a deep as she tried to calm herself and suppress the effects of the demons power. They looked for a bit longer when Gabrielle also started feeling Lust's influence beginning to get to her. For a while she tried to keep it to herself. But it didn't take long for Xena to notice.
XENA
You too now?
GABRIELLE
Yeah. How are we supposed to deal with this demon when we find it if we already feel like this now?
XENA
Good question.
After a brief moment of thought, Xena looked around.
XENA
Ah-ha that'll work. Okay nothing appears to require our attention right at this moment. Come on.
Xena began walking towards an abandoned looking shack on that stood alone out of the way of the main city streets. Gabrielle followed.
GABRIELLE
Wait where are we going?
XENA
We're dealing with this before it gets out of hand and one or both of us end up doing something that we'll regret.
GABRIELLE
What about the demon and the people here?
XENA
There doesn't seem to be anything that needs us to intervene immediately. So I think we should be alright. I'll be sure to keep an ear out for if anything changes. Once we take care of this, it should at least help aliveate some of the demons influence for a while so we're able to actually focus again on finaly locating Lust.
After making sure the coast was clear, Xena and Gabrielle went into the small shack. Xena shut the door behind them as she turned towards Gabrielle.
XENA
Now let's solve our little "problem".
Gabrielle leaned up against the wall as Xena walked over and passionately kissed her. She softly moaned as Xena began kissing down her neck. As Xena continued, Gabrielle began unhooking Xena's armor. At this point she had done it so many times, she could do it in he sleep. Once Xena's armor was off, she let it fall to the floor as Xena removed Gabrielle's top and tossed it aside. Xena then pulled back and quickly pulled off rest of her clothing, before coming back in for another passionate kiss. She traced her hands down Gabrielle's body as she got to Gabrielle's skirt. Gripping the waist, as Xena crouched down she slipped Gabrielle's bottoms down to her ankles. Gabrielle stepped out of them. Then she steadied herself by holding Xena's shoulder as Xena pulled off her boots. Now both completely bare, Xena stood back up and passionately kissed Gabrielle. She then began kissing down her neck and chest. She continued kissing down the length of Gabrielle's torso as she knelt down. Gabrielle leaned back against the wall as Xena put Gabrielle's leg over her shoulder. Gabrielle steadied herself by holding the table that was beside her. Xena continued making her way to her intended destination. She paused just as she got to Gabrielle's entrance. Gabrielle shuddered as she felt Xena's breath on her. Xena stayed just like that for a few moments, so close to Gabrielle but not yet touching her. Gabrielle was beginning to feel as though she was about to be driven mad from Xena's teasing. She moved her hips, trying to get Xena to touch her. But Xena put her hand on Gabrielle's stomach, pinning her against the wall and holding her still. Xena let out a small chuckle, knowing full well what she was doing. She then returned to the teasing that had Gabrielle almost to the point of begging for release. After a few more moments of this Xena stopped. Gabrielle looked down to see Xena looking up at her. And as she did, she felt Xena slowly lick her. Gabrielle gasped with enjoyment as she felt Xena began her exploration. She moaned as Xena continued to work. Then she felt Xena's tongue graze her clit. Gabrielle gasped. Xena smirked as she put her hand on Gabrielle's stomach, pinning her against the wall. Knowing full well that what she was about to do would undoubtedly cause Gabrielle to lose control. Then Xena slowly flicked her tongue against the same spot again, causing Gabrielle to instinctively try to move her hips against her. But Xena's hand kept her still. Xena continued to focus on Gabrielle's clit. She plunged into Gabrielle with a hunger that even Xena never knew she had. Whether it truly was Lust's doing, or simply their need for one another. Nothing else seemed to matter. Because in those moments all there seemed to be was the two of them and what they shared. As Xena continued to dive into her, Gabrielle could hardly believe how amazing what Xena was doing felt. She almost never wanted it to end as Xena preceded to go faster. Dispite having Xena's hand trying to hold her still, Gabrielle arched her back as she felt her orgasism quickly approaching. She gripped Xena's hair as Xena continued. Xena knew that she was close. Gabrielle cried out Xena's name repeatedly as she felt herself just on the edge. Until finally Gabrielle threw her head back and her mouth hung open in a silent scream of pure extacy as she came so hard Xena had to hold her up. After a few moments, Gabrielle regained her composer and Xena stood back up. She leaned up against Gabrielle as they passionately kissed.
XENA
Let's make sure we get all of Lust's influence out of our system.
Before Gabrielle could say anything, Xena picked her up and brought her over to a table that along with a few other things, happened to be left in the abandoned shack. Xena sat Gabrielle on the edge of the table. Gabrielle kissed her before laying back. Xena then took Gabrielle's leg and put it over her shoulder as she positioned herself agienst her. Then she began slowly thrusting her hips. Pushing herself against Gabrielle. Xena let out a low moan. She continued moving. After a little bit she began moving faster. As she did, Gabrielle could feel herself quickly approaching another orgasism. She gripped the table beneath her as she pleaded with Xena not to stop. Xena, who was close to coming herself, had no intention of stopping. Infact she began to move faster. She pushed harder against Gabrielle as she felt herself about ready to hit her apex. As Xena moved faster and harder against her, it caused Gabrielle to hit her second orgasism. She moaned, gripping the table tight as Xena kept moving against her. Her continued movements making Gabrielle's high last longer. Xena could feel herself right on the edge. She was mere moments away from hitting her climax. Xena thrust hard against Gabrielle once more. And as she did she came hard. She held herself tightly against Gabrielle for a moment as she felt the orgasism surge through her. After a few moments Xena slowly began moving against Gabrielle again, drawing out the last bit of her high. Once both of them took a couple moments to recover, Xena moved back allowing Gabrielle to sit up. Gabrielle put her arms around Xena's neck as they kissed.
XENA
I think that should help aliveate Lust's influence for a while.
Gabrielle laughed a little as they kissed once more. Then Xena walked over, grabbed her clothes and began getting dressed. As did Gabrielle. Once dressed Xena headed out.
XENA
Now to find that demon.
Gabrielle finished putting herself together and followed Xena as they resumed their search for the demon Lust. They just got back outside, when Xena spotted a figure quickly move behind another lone building nearby. She motioned for Gabrielle to follow her as she quietly stalked her way over to the building. Xena and Gabrielle hugged the wall as they stealthily rounded the corner. The figure was gone. Xena noticed an open window and peered inside. Then without saying anything, she jumped inside. Once she landed and stood up, Xena took out her sword as the sun came in through the window, lighting up part of the dark room.
XENA
You know it's a little ironic. The very thing you were doing to keep yourself hidden is exactly what lead to you being found. Isn't that right...
The figure gave a slight chuckle as they walked into the light, revealing their identity.
XENA
Lust.
Pt.15
There was a moment of silence as Xena at last layed eyes on the demon Lust, that had been eluding them for a while now. Gabrielle climbed in the window behind Xena and saw who had to be the demon. She was sitting in a large chair, looking quite relaxed. And didn't appear to be very phased that she had been found. She looked at Xena and Gabrielle.
LUST
Hmm it looks like I've been discovered.
The demon slowly stood up and began walking towards Xena and Gabrielle.
LUST
No matter. Perhaps it's time for me to join in on the fun.
She slowly began circling the two of them, as Xena and Gabrielle stood ready for anything that the demon might try. The two watched carefully as Lust seemed to look them up and down. Almost as if she was inspecting them.
LUST
Mmmm your a sweet one.
The demon sensuality brushed Gabrielle's arm. Causing Gabrielle to immediately pull away.
LUST
Oh now there's no need to be shy.
Lust went to reach for Gabrielle again when Xena grabbed the demons wrist.
XENA
She's spoken for.
The demon briefly glanced at Xena and smiled.
LUST
Mmm I see.
Lust pulled her arm free from Xena's grip as she walked back to her chair and sat down.
LUST
I'm sure we can figure something out that would make everyone here... satisfied.
GABRIELLE
Did, did we just get proptitioned by a demon?
XENA
Thanks but I think we're gonna have to pass on your little offer.
LUST
Is that so?
The demon picked up a bottle and glass that was sitting on a table beside her and poured herself a drink, clearly not taking either Xena or Gabrielle seriously. Lust took a sip from her cup.
LUST
Oh how rude of me. Wine?
The demon held the glass out towards Xena and Gabrielle.
XENA
Again that's gonna be a hard pass.
Lust glared at Xena.
LUST
I wasn't asking you.
The demon turned her attention to Gabrielle, staring at her.
LUST
Come here. Have some wine with me sweet one.
The demon began to hum softly. Gabrielle didn't say a word as she slowly began walking towards Lust.
XENA
Gabrielle.
Xena quickly grabbed her arm, stopping Gabrielle. She looked at the demon.
XENA
What did you do to her?
LUST
Nothing... yet. Oh you mean why she obeyed my call. I just used a little taste of my power.
Gabrielle blinked a couple times, returning to normal and stepped back.
GABRIELLE
What was that?
Xena let go of her.
XENA
You alright?
GABRIELLE
I think so.
LUST
You know it'll be so much easier if you don't resist. Now come to me. I promise not to bite. That is unless you want me to.
Lust held out her hand as she once again started humming. Her voice or the tune was clearly what was causing Gabrielle to act strangely. Enchanting her and putting her in a trance like state. She again began to move towards the demon.
XENA
Enough of this.
With her sword in hand Xena charged for Lust. The demon waved her hand casually, sending out a Shockwave and throwing Xena into the wall.
LUST
If you don't want to die, I suggest you stay out of my way. Trust me you don't want to see me angry.
XENA
Am I supposed to scared?
Xena got back up, as Lust put her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.
XENA
Keep your filthy demon claws off of her.
Xena jumped into the air towards the demon as she readied her sword. Preparing to cut Lust down. Lust quickly put up her hand. And suddenly Xena stopped moving right in midair. She was frozen there,.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) I can't move a muscle.
LUST
I'm tired of this. You bore me. Now be gone.
With a flick of her fingers Lust sent Xena flying back. Sending her crashing through a closed window and landing hard on the ground outside. As she landed Xena's head hit a rock. Her vision went fuzzy for a moment. And her mind became foggy. She slowly got back to her feet as she tried to regain her focus. Her balance was off as she made her way back to the window, gripping the windowsill to keep herself up. Xena knew that she most likely had a concussion. But she had to get to Gabrielle.
LUST
Come my sweet one. Let's go somewhere that we can enjoy ourselves. I do so enjoy when I get a new play thing.
Due to her injury Xena's reaction time was significantly slowed. So she could do nothing but watch as with her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder, Lust vanished into black smoke. Disappearing and taking Gabrielle with her. Leaving Xena alone and injured. Not knowing where Gabrielle had been taken or how she could possibly find her.
Pt.16
Xena stood looking into the empty room. Gabrielle, who had fallen under Lust's spell had been taken somewhere by the demon. And Xena had no idea where they had gone. She held her hand to her head that was hurting after she was thrown through a window and hit her head on a rock. She didn't feel any blood or cuts.
XENA
I guess that's something.
She tried to walk away, but was off balance due to the concussion she sustained. She made her way back to the window and held onto the windowsill for stability.
XENA
I don't have time for this. I have to find Gabrielle.
She turned around and looked out into the distance as she thought for a moment.
XENA
But how?
Xena thought and the only thing that she could come up with for locating Gabrielle and Lust was the same way that they had been finding the demons. Finding areas where people were clearly under their control. But up to this point Xena and Gabrielle had been lucky and finding the areas affected relatively easy. The demons had been unaware that they were being hunted. But this time Lust must've known that Xena would come looking for her. So Xena had no doubt that the demon had moved on from the area. She must've gone somewhere far more secluded and hidden. And probably wouldn't be emitting her power to control people. That would be a dead give away for her location. And this demon seemed to be pretty smart. So how would Xena find Lust this time? But there was no time for Xena to speculate. She had to move. Based on what she had seen, she was certain that she didn't have long to find Gabrielle, before Lust had her drink that wine. Xena wasn't exactly sure what it did, but she knew that it wasn't anything good. She just hoped it wasn't already too late.
XENA
This demon is as good as dead.
Though still unbalanced, Xena made her way out of town. As she was leaving, Xena's suspensions were confirmed. The people there seemed to have returned to normal. Lust had completely abandoned her hold over the area. This also solidified another one of Xena's hunches about the demons power. There was clearly a limit to how far their power could reach. It seemed to very from one demon to the next, but this was still useful information to have. But this also brought up the question of what the demons overall plan was. If they couldn't simply maintain their hold over the areas that moved on from, what were they doing? Or perhaps for their influence to hold it took time. And maybe Lust hadn't been there long enough for her influence to stick without her there. Of course it was all just speculation. And Xena wasn't about to waste her time on thinking about that when she needed to focus on finding Gabrielle and freeing her from Lust's hold
XENA
(Thinking to herself) Hopefully I find Gabrielle before anything happens to her. After all the way that the demon was talking made it sound like she wanted to...
Xena forced the thought from her mind. Not wanting to think of such a thing. The last thing they needed was to have another Dehawk, Hope type of situation. If that were even possible. After all this demon did appear to be female. But it was a demon, so who was to say how something like that would work. If that was even this demons plan. After all this was the demon of lust. Maybe she simply wanted to use Gabrielle as her sex slave. Though she tried to fight it, the thought had managed to seep in. Xena shuddered, determined to find Gabrielle and stop anything like that from happening. As she exited the city, she looked around for any sign that might help lead her to Lust. As she scanned the area, Xena spotted some cliffs in the distance. With no other leads to go on, she thought that might be the best place to start her search. It wasn't too far from the city, so maybe in a hurry the demon figured that would be a good place to go. At least that's what Xena hoped. Before long she made it to the cliffs. There were a number of holes in the side. If Lust had brought Gabrielle there, Xena still had no way of knowing where their exact location was. But not wanting to waste any more time, Xena just randomly picked one and went in. The inside was like a maze. Dispite not knowing where she was going, Xena continued moving. Running around the area. As her search took her deeper into the caves, Xena noticed that it was decorated. And based on the types of decorations she saw, Xena knew that her instincts were right and this had to be Lust's hideout. The demon must've came here with Gabrielle. Xena was most likely in the right place. Now she just needed to find them. She continued to run through the area, looking for any sign of either of them. Then as she turned a corner Xena saw some people that were clearly under the demons spell filing into a corridor. Thinking that they might lead her to Lust, Xena followed them. After a bit of a walk, they lead Xena the a large beaded curtain that was hung over a doorway which had clearly been put there using some sort of magic. Xena hugged the wall, wanting to remain hidden as she looked through the curtain. From what she could see the room on the other side was huge. It was very obvious what the room was used for. There was no longer any doubt that lust had come there. Xena carefully stepped inside and quietly moved through the room looking for Gabrielle. While she was looking, Xena heard Lust's voice. She looked and saw the demon at the top a set of stairs, casually laying on a large bed. And there sitting on the bed beside her was Gabrielle. She was in the same state that she was when Lust had taken her. Xena noticed that she was wearing a robe. Was Xena too late? Had the demon already taken what she wanted? As she looked on, Xena saw Lust reach over and pick up a cup. Xena could see that it was full of wine. The demon handed Gabrielle the glass, clearly wanting her to drink. It was still unclear what exactly the purpose of that wine was. But whatever Lust was trying to do to Gabrielle, Xena wasn't going to let her. Gabrielle brought the cup to her lips as Xena grabbed her chakrum and threw it. The weapon flew through the air. A surprised Lust quickly used her powers to throw another cup at the chakrum, knocking it away. She looked over to see Xena as ran and jumped through the air, catching her chakrum and landing at the foot of the bed. As she landed, due to her concussion Xena staggered a bit but quickly recovered. She drew her sword and pointed it at Lust. She didn't say anything, but Lust could clearly see the rage behind Xena's eyes. Xena looked at Gabrielle who had just finished the wine. Then she looked back at Lust.
XENA
If you touched her.
The demon smiled.
LUST
I've been saving this for dessert.
The smile faded from Lust's face faded as she stood up.
LUST
Which you so rudely just ruined.
XENA
What was in that cup?
LUST
Just a little something to help relax the mind. Even when I've used my power on them, some people can still be a a bit, uncooperative. This just makes things a little easier.
Xena scowled.
XENA
You monster. You drug people to get them to do what you want. That's wrong on so many levels. What did you give her?
LUST
Nothing that'll hurt her. After all if I did that I wouldn't be able to have my fun.
Xena was relieved that nothing had happened to Gabrielle. Lust didn't have any reason to lie about that. Though the fact that Lust drugged her and would've taken advantage of her altered state enraged Xena.
LUST
I suppose I'll have to wait a bit longer. Oh well. Sometimes delayed gratification can be just as, stimulating.
Xena tightened her grip on her sword. Ready to finally be rid of this demon.
XENA
Then maybe it's time for me to get in on the action.
LUST
Sorry but you're not my type.
XENA
Like wise.
Xena quickly closed in and swung her sword at Lust. The demon moved, avoiding Xena's strike. Then using her power picked up and threw a large piece of furniture at Xena. Xena quickly dove and got out of the way. But as she was standing back up, the effects of her concussion hit her. Xena's vision blurred as her balance once again left her. She knelt there as tried to shake it off.
XENA
Damn it not now.
Xena's behavior didn't go unnoticed by Lust.
LUST
Done already? That's always so disappointing.
Xena ignored the demons comment as she made it back to her feet. But she was still experiencing the same effects.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) How am I supposed to fight her like this?
As Xena tried to regain her focus, Lust threw several more objects at her. Xena managed to dodge most of them, but still ended up getting hit. She fell to the ground. Lust slowly walked up to her. As she did, the demon began using her power to pile more items onto Xena. Pinning her to the floor. Xena looked up at the demon as Lust closed in.
LUST
I've grown incredibly tired of you. I should've just killed you in our first meeting. It would've saved me the headache of all this. But then again sometimes a little pain is just what you ugh....
XENA
Well if that's how you want it.
Lust looked down seeing that Xena had impaleded her with a long candle holder that had a spike on the top of it from the pile of items that had been thrown at Xena. Lust hadn't been paying much attention to what she was throwing. During their whole interaction Lust hadn't taken Xena seriously at all. At that fact allowed Xena to catch the demon off guard and put an end to her. Xena let go of her end of the candle holder and Lust fell to her knees. The long candle holder fell at an angle that held her up. So the demon stayed kneeling even though she was dead. Xena sighed as she lowered her head. The effects of her concussion returning.
?
Xena!
Xena looked back up to see Gabrielle rushing to her. Gabrielle knelt down next to her.
GABRIELLE
Xena are you okay?
Xena smiled.
XENA
Don't worry about me. Are you alright. That monster didn't hurt you did she?
GABRIELLE
What are you...
Gabrielle looked down, just taking notice of what she was wearing.
GABRIELLE
What is this? Xena what happened here?
Gabrielle took off the robe. Xena's lingering fears were put to rest when she saw that Gabrielle was still fully clothed under the robe. It appeared that Lust truly wasn't lying about not having done anything yet. Xena decided that since nothing happened, and Gabrielle didn't have any memory of the whole ordeal it might be better not to tell her. There was no need to possibly drag up old memories and wounds for Gabrielle.
XENA
Nothing you need to worry about. Everything's fine. You're safe now. And I took care of that demon.
Gabrielle began moving the furniture that Xena was still stuck underneath. Once Xena was free, she stood up. But her concussion kicked in and she dropped to her knees. Gabrielle didn't know what was wrong.
GABRIELLE
Xena!
Xena explained her current condition. Knowing that it was impossible for her to try and hide it.
GABRIELLE
We need to get you somewhere that you can rest.
Gabrielle helped Xena up. And helped her walk out of Lust's hideout. They went back into the town that had been freed from Lust's influence to get Xena medical attention. And so the fight against yet another sin demon ended. But there were three more left to face. And who knew what the demons that were left would have in store for them once found. Or how Xena and Gabrielle could defeat them. Or if they would even be able to at all.
Pt.17
GABRIELLE
I really don't think we should leave yet Xena. There's no way you've fully recovered.
Gabrielle followed Xena around the room as Xena gathered up her things. It had been a few days since Xena had defeated the demon Lust. They had been staying at the local inn at the town that they had found the demon in. Xena didn't say much as she continued packing. Gabrielle reached out and grabbed Xena's arm.
GABRIELLE
Xena, would you stop and listen to me.
Xena tossed the items she had in her hand on the bed as she stopped and looked at Gabrielle slightly annoyed.
XENA
What are we supposed to do Gabrielle? Stay here and sit around while the rest of those damn demons run around doing who knows what to countless innocent people. Well I won't let them. I won't stop until every last one of them is dead.
Gabrielle had noticed that ever since their last encounter with the demon Lust, Xena seemed to be even more focused on killing the rest of the sin demons. Almost single mindedly so. She didn't have any memory of what happened from before she was taken, up until after Xena had killed Lust. When Gabrielle asked Xena what happened while she was under the demons spell, Xena just told her that it wasn't important, she killed Lust and that her being safe was all that mattered. But Gabrielle could tell that not only that encounter, but the whole sin demon situation was taking it's toll on Xena. It was having a similar effect on Gabrielle too. They had been in countless intense and dangerous situations before. But the almost constant onslaught of powerful enemies that they've been having to hunt down. The injuries they kept substaing. And the fact that they've both had to see each other taken control over or manipulated by the demons. It made perfect sense that everything was beginning to weigh heavily on them. Given everything that they had already been through, how could it not. They finished packing in silence. Finally once she was done, Xena broke the silence with only two words.
XENA
Three more.
Xena picked up her pack and headed out. Gabrielle grabbed her stuff and followed. They left the town and set out looking for the remaining sin demons. As they walked down the road, Gabrielle could tell that Xena was in pain.
GABRIELLE
You okay? We can slow down or rest. You really shouldn't push yourself like this Xena.
XENA
I'll live. At least until we finish the rest of the demons.
GABRIELLE
That's not funny. You shouldn't say things like that.
XENA
I'll be fine.
Xena patted Gabrielle's shoulder, trying to reassure her that she was okay. They walked on. As they traveled, Xena and Gabrielle came across a small farm. There seemed to be some sort of commotion. They walked over to see what was going on.
FARMER
Wait please. If you take everything, how will I feed my family? My children will starve.
SOLDIER
Sorry. By order of the new lord we have to take possession of all farmland and everything that goes with it.
FARMER
But why? And what happened to the old lord that was in charge?
SOLDIER
He died suddenly a few weeks ago.
XENA
How exactly did he die?
The soldier turned to see Xena and Gabrielle.
SOLDIER
Who are you?
XENA
Just a couple people passing through. We couldn't help but notice the situation. So just what is going on here?
SOLDIER
Nothing that concerns you. Now move along. I'm sure you have some cooking or cleaning to do or something.
Xena's already sour mood was not helped by the soldiers incredibly sexist comment. Before the man knew what happened, Xena had his arm twisted behind his back as she dug her fingers into his shoulder.
XENA
I'm sorry I didn't quite catch that. Would you like to run that by me again.
SOLDIER
Gah! I'm sorry.
XENA
Now how bout answering my question.
Xena continued to dig into the man's shoulder.
SOLDIER
We've been ordered by the new lord to take all the farm land in the area.
XENA
Why?
SOLDIER
I honestly don't know. I don't even know what he looks like.
GABRIELLE
You've never seen the person you're working for? That seems odd for a lord.
SOLDIER
I don't think anyone that I know of has seen him.
XENA
Interesting.
Xena let him go and began to walk away but then stopped.
XENA
Oh yeah you never said how the old lord died.
SOLDIER
Well we're not exactly sure if he's dead. But one day he just vanished and the new lord took over.
XENA
And you just blindly follow someone that you really have no idea who they are after your last employer suddenly disappears.
The soldier just shrugged.
GABRIELLE
So much for loyalty.
Xena and Gabrielle left and headed to the lord's castle.
GABRIELLE
You think that a demon could be behind this?
XENA
I honestly don't know. No one around here seems to be acting abnormally. But since we're already here, we might as well check things out just to be sure.
The two of them came to the lord's castle. They pretended to be traveling merchants so they would be allowed inside and not arouse suspicion. Once inside Xena and Gabrielle snuck off to investigate the situation. As they looked around, they found an area that seemed to have been blocked off. There was a sign on the wall.
SIGN
WARNING: Area under construction. Entrance beyond this point is strictly prohibited.
Xena and Gabrielle peeked through the boards that were nailed up to cut off the area. They could see a long hallway on the other side. It seemed to look completely normal.
XENA
There's something weird about this. I don't know if it's another demon or what. But there's something back there that someone clearly doesn't want anyone to see. And I'm finding out what it is.
Xena pulled down a couple of the boards and she along with Gabrielle climbed through to the other side. They quietly moved down the hallway. Everything was quiet. But as they came to the end of the hall, Gabrielle stopped for a moment.
GABRIELLE
What's that awful smell?
She held her hand over her nose and mouth. The air was so saturated with the oder, that she could taste it. And to say that it was unpleasant would be a massive understatement. Xena had a fairly good idea of what the pungent oder was. She had smelled it a good number of times during her days as a warlord. And this was a smell that you couldn't forget no matter how much you wanted to. They came to the end of the hallway. Xena looked around the corner and saw another long hallway. There were a pair of large doors at the end.
XENA
I'm almost certain the smell is coming from in there. It might be best if you wait back a bit.
GABRIELLE
I'll be okay.
XENA
I think I know what this smell is. And if I'm right, you really don't want to see what might be behind those doors.
Dispite Xena's warning, Gabrielle insisted on going with her. Xena reluctantly gave up on trying to make Gabrielle stay back. They both made their way to the doors. They could hear noises coming from inside. At this point the aroma in the air was so strong. Gabrielle could feel her stomach churning. She swallowed hard as she tried to fight off getting sick. Xena put her hand on the door.
XENA
You ready?
Gabrielle nodded. Xena opened the door. On the other side was a kitchen. There were large slabs of raw meat stacked in piles all over. Blood was splattered all over. It looked like a butcher shop that hadn't been cleaned in who knows how long. As they looked around, Xena and Gabrielle spotted a person in the back of the room. Their back was turned to them. From what they could see the person appeared to be preparing a meal, and hadn't noticed them.
GABRIELLE
Excuse me?
The person didn't respond at all. Thinking that they must not have heard her, Gabrielle spoke up again, louder. But once again the person simply continued with what they were doing.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) It's like we're not even here. And god's this smell is killing me. Whatever it is if I have to deal with this for too much longer, everything I've eaten today is definitely gonna come back up. But what...
Gabrielle completely lost her train of thought as the unknown person held up a meat cleaver and swing it back down, cutting something in front of them that Xena and Gabrielle couldn't see. But the reason why Gabrielle lost track of what she was thinking was because of something that had fallen onto the floor after the unknown person had made the cut. Gabrielle's eyes went wide as she stared in horror at the thing on the ground. Seeing this sent her over the edge, as she finally realized what the horrible smell was. Causing her to no longer hold it back. Gabrielle quickly turned away as she threw up. Xena stood quietly staring as she clenched her fist. Now having confirmation of what they were dealing with. This was the work of one of the remaining demons. At least as odd as it seemed, that's what Xena hoped. For the simple fact that if it wasn't, then this situation was even worse than it seemed. Because there on the kitchen floor, that the unknown person had cut off from what they were obviously preparing to cook. Was a severed human hand.
Pt.18
The scene was horrific as Xena and Gabrielle stood in the lord's kitchen. The sickening smell paired with the severed hand on the floor was all the proof that Xena needed to confirm her suspicions of what was going on. Not wanting to believe it, Gabrielle tried to come up with some alternative that would be less disturbing than what she thought that the truth was. She still had her back to the scene that she quickly turned away from.
GABRIELLE
Xena please tell me we're not dealing with what I think we are.
Xena looked on. Staring both at the person still preparing to cook and at the severed hand.
XENA
I don't see any way to deny it. Their preparing dinner and people are what's on the menu.
Having no room left for denial, Gabrielle probably would've thrown up again. But she didn't have anything left in her stomach to do so.
GABRIELLE
What do we do? Is this a demons doing or are we dealing with some truly sick people here. I honestly don't know what one sounds worse.
XENA
I'd say being manipulated into doing this is far worse than willingly doing it. I'm almost certain that no one here actually knows what their doing.
GABRIELLE
Your right. But what's gonna happen when they find out? I can't even imagine having to live with something like that.
XENA
As hard as it is to accept, unfortunately there's nothing we can do about that. Best case we can hope for is for people to not find out. Hopefully we can put an end to this madness before too much damage is done. Come on let's go see if we can find out anything that can help us get to the bottom of this.
Xena and Gabrielle left the kitchen.
XENA
At least there's a small silver lining in this mess.
Gabrielle looked at Xena wondering what she could possibly be talking about.
GABRIELLE
How on earth can you see an upside here?
XENA
Everything outside around here is completely normal. So that means if we are dealing a demon, then it's most likely somewhere in this building.
GABRIELLE
Okay but where? We might be in a building, but this place is still huge. Who knows where it could be hiding.
XENA
You're right. But something that farmer said makes me think that we might know right where to start looking.
GABRIELLE
You don't think that the demon was the one that killed the old lord and then took his place as ruler?
XENA
I do.
GABRIELLE
Why would it do that?
XENA
My best guess. This probably allows it to do as it pleases with far less risk of being found out. With it staying held up in a castle assuming the role as a reclusive lord. No one on the outside would really suspect anything.
GABRIELLE
I'd ask where the old lord and most of the people that should be here went. But unfortunately I think I have a pretty good idea of what probably happened to them.
Gabrielle quickly tried thinking of something else. Not wanting more images like or worse than the kitchen scene they had found in her head. Xena walked a head of her back down the hallway they came from. After a bit they found another hallway they had gone past earlier still within the boarded up area. They decided to go down the hall to investigate. Eventually Xena and Gabrielle found a large set of stairs leading up a number of floors. Thinking that there was a good chance of the demon being on one of the floors above, Xena and Gabrielle began their assent.
XENA
Be ready for anything. We still don't know exactly what we're up against.
They checked each floor as they went up and found nothing.
XENA
Looks like this is the top.
As they reached the top of the stairs they could already tell that this floor was different. Apart from the kitchen on the first floor, the rest of the building had been eerily empty and quiet. It made it seem as though the building was abandoned. But this floor was clearly being used. It was a total mess. Xena and Gabrielle quietly began walking down the hallway, drawing their weapons. As the two walked, they noticed that the floor was littered with garbage. Discarded dishes, broken furniture and all sorts of other random trash. They wouldn't have really taken notice of it if not for what they saw mixed in with everything else.
GABRIELLE
Bones.
XENA
Human bones. We're definitely close.
Xena crouched down to investigate.
XENA
It looks like some of these are fresh.
Suddenly they heard a noise coming from further down the hall. They couldn't tell what it was just from the sound, but they figured that it had to be who or whatever was behind this. Xena and Gabrielle came to two large doors in the middle of the hall. Most likely the master bedroom. They stood against the wall on each side. Xena grabbed the doorknob and looked at Gabrielle for a moment, making sure she was ready. Then she cracked opened the door and peaked inside. She couldn't really see much there was too much junk piled up in the way. But they could hear someone inside. After preparing themselves for what they might see, Xena slowly pushed the doors open enough for them to get in. The room was somehow worse than the hallway with the level of garbage and human remains that were scattered all over. And not to mention the smell. Which was somehow worse than it was in the kitchen. As Xena and Gabrielle looked around the room they saw a large screen. They could see the shadow of a figure behind it. The noises it was making sounded like it was eating something and really enjoying it. Then they saw the figure toss something out from behind the screen. As it hit the floor Xena and Gabrielle saw that it was a bone. There was no doubt in Xena's mind that it used to belong to a person. She clenched her fist as she readied her sword. At this point she didn't care who this was. She just knew that they needed to die. Both Xena and Gabrielle began quietly walking around the room. In an effort to sneak up on whoever was behind the screen. They were almost to the screen, when they suddenly heard a loud crunch. Xena and Gabrielle froze in their tracks as Xena looked down, seeing that she had stepped on a bone.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) Shit! Maybe they didn't hear that.
That wishful thought was quickly dashed when Xena and Gabrielle saw the figure stop what it was doing and turned its head. The shape of the shadow confirmed that they were infact dealing with another demon. They watched as the figure stood up and walked out from behind the screen.
?
I thought I told you to never interrupt me during my meals.
Xena and Gabrielle looked at the large pig-looking creature that stood before them. Xena tightened her grip on her sword.
XENA
Sorry but I'm afraid that your dinner plans have just been canceled my lord. Or would you prefer it if I called you by your actual name? Gluttony.