Title: Changes of Heart Pt. 6

Author: CN Winters

Fandom: Xena Fanfiction, Xena fanfic, Xena fan fiction, Xena and Gabrielle fanfiction, Xena fiction

Rating: PG to NC-17

Disclaimers: These characters aren’t mine. They belong to Mr. Tapert and Co. I’m just borrowing them to vent. It’s not a happy tale and it involves two women who once loved each other deeply. If either of these facts disturb you don’t read this tale. Also it contains spoilers for the last few eps of season five.

Author Note: Like most Xena Gab shippers season five was a joke and the ender, with Xena hitting Gabby in the head with her chakram was the straw that broke the camel's back. I wrote this series in response to my anger and the total character assignation of season five. Enjoy!

Synopsis:  Xena and Gabrielle arrive in Athens and try to rekindle the magic in their relationship.

Feedback: Drop me a line at cnwinters71@yahoo.com.

Changes of Heart Part VI

CHALLENGES

"After 25 years you’d think that this place would have changed," Gabrielle commented to the group as they walked through Athens.

"Now that’s not true," Xena answered. "It’s dirtier, smellier and a lot more crowded than before."

Gabrielle grinned at the warrior as they walked through the merchant section of town. A small commotion began just outside the marketplace and the group all looked at each other. Perhaps we should check this out, Gabrielle thought as she looked to Xena.

"Right behind you," the warrior answered, reading the bard’s mind.

The group went over to the scuffle to see that it wasn’t a scuffle at all. In fact, it was a friendly competition. It appears people were betting and cheering on two warriors in the ring.

"Tell me it’s not a fight to the death," Gabrielle asked one of the patrons who took a momentary break from urging his warrior on.

"Good gracious no!" he chuckled. "The first one to end up off their feet loses. I’ve got the red one," he answered, as he pointed to the man with a red scarf tied around his biceps. The other man in the ‘ring’ had on a blue scarf. "Come on RED!!!" he shouted getting back into the action again.

Slowly, a smile crept to the bard’s face. 

"That looks like fun," she told Xena. "Let’s enter!"

"What?!" Has she totally lost her mind?

"Oh, come on," Gabrielle jabbed. "What’s the matter warrior princess... chicken?" Gabrielle proceeded to make a clucking noise until her laughter prevented her from doing it any longer.

"You could get hurt," Xena answered.

"It’s just a little competition," Gabrielle argued. "What could happen?"

Xena sighed. "Why do the phrases, ‘Just one more flip’ and ‘It won’t kill me ’ keep ringing in my ears?"

Gabrielle laughed heartily and Eve found herself smiling as well. She had read her mom’s scroll about the Persian attack and how Gabrielle ended up gimp for the battle - all because she started ‘on the wrong’ foot while practicing leaps.

"We’ll fight each other," Gabrielle answered. "It’ll be fun."

"It’ll be fun," Xena mimicked. "Beating each other to a meaty pulp?"

"Noooo," Gabrielle replied. "Beating each other into submission. There’s a difference." She winked playfully.

Xena had to chuckle now. It was obvious there was no getting out of it. The bard seemed to have made up her mind. Xena knew there was only one way out of this and it was through that fighting ring.

 "Okay," Xena reluctantly agreed. "But we have to spar with each other. No one else. And if they say we can’t pick a challenger we both walk away. Agreed?"

Gabrielle spat in her hand and offered it to the warrior. "Agreed!" she said optimistically. Reluctantly, Xena took it. As the match between the two men came to a close, with the blue warrior firmly on his behind, the speaker called for two more combatants.

Xena and Gabrielle both stepped forward.

"We’ll compete," Gabrielle told him.

"WoooHooo, gentlemen!" the announcer shouted getting the crowd worked up, "Two lovely warriors to place your bets on. Let’s hear it," he yelled. "Blue goes to the lovely lady with blue eyes and red to petite, but powerful blonde. What do you say gentleman? Place your bets! Place your bets!"

Xena and Gabrielle took the scarves they were given and tied them around each other’s arms.

"Listen to this," Xena said shaking her head. "Listen to them hooting. Have you no shame?" she chuckled.

"Nope," Gabrielle laughed. "Relax. Have fun. And try not to hit me in the face. I might need my lips later tonight," she added wiggling her eyebrows.

Xena felt herself blush slightly. "Better watch those eyebrows Gabrielle," she warned. "This better be a fair fight. No pulling any ‘Tataka’s’ on me."

"Why what ever do you mean, Xena?" Gabrielle teased, batting her eyelashes innocently.

"What do I mean?" Xena smiled. "No face licking, no feeling yourself up in front of me, no feeling me up in front of the crowd-" she growled in the bard’s ear.

She would have continued, but Gabrielle stopped her. "Okay, okay. No using... ahem... sex as a weapon. Got it." She grinned. "May the best warrior win," she replied offering her forearm to Xena.

Lord how I’ve missed having that spirit of hers around. Xena took the arm offered her and gave a nod to her challenger.

"Okay!" the announcer boomed, "Rules are simple. Use any weapons you like, but no deathblows allowed. Anyone who delivers one will be sentenced directly to jail for prosecution of murder. No hitting below the belt. If you leave the ring for any reason you forfeit. The first one to fall loses. The one left standing - the victor! Understand?!" Xena and Gabrielle both nodded. "Alright then ladies... FIIIIIGHT!!!!"

A cheer went up through the crowd as August, Eponin and Eve all watched Xena and Gabrielle face off in the ring. But even among the yells they heard one voice ring out, "Kick her ass, Gabrielle!"

The warrior and the bard didn’t break eye contact, but both knew it was Eponin’s voice that called out in the crowd. Despite themselves, both women grinned at the outburst as they circled each other looking for a weak spot to land the first strike.

Gabrielle knew Xena’s weak area - her back. She had witnessed it in countless battles. She could jab the warrior in the face or in the gut. She could kick the warrior in her shins. But none of these would make the warrior tumble. She would simple shrug it off. But a blow to the back would have Xena on her knees like a sack of potatoes.

Xena sized up her opponent as well. Gabrielle had no ‘weakness’ per say. She was graceful for the most part. But once she went off-balanced Xena knew any blow could bring the bard down. Getting Gabrielle off kilter was the hard part, but if she could do it she knew she could win. It didn’t have to be anything forceful just a slight leg sweep would set the amazon on her backside.

When Xena didn’t make a move, Gabrielle realized that she would have to strike first. She began by firing a round of punches and kicks that Xena easily deflected, in the hopes of working behind her. When Gabrielle paused just a moment to re-establish her footing, Xena took full advantage and began an offensive attack that step by step pushed the bard backward.

Xena stomped toward Gabrielle’s shin, but missed, leaving her legs spread wide, Gabrielle took the opportunity and slide between them. Now she was behind the warrior like she wanted and the crowd gave a hearty cheer for the maneuver. Even Xena had to admit she was impressed, but she wasn’t about to let Gabrielle win. She knew what Gabrielle was up to. As Gabrielle rose up behind her, Xena let out a powerful warcry and leaped backward over the bard.

Two paces, Gabrielle’s mind called out. She knew after six years of watching her work, that’s how far Xena would land behind her. Without turning back, Gabrielle took two steps back and without turning around drove her leg up, kicking Xena in the stomach before her feet could even touch the ground. The warrior flew backward and the crowd cheered again as they watched Xena land - both feet on the ground, but teetering close to the end of the ring.

Gabrielle turned to face her and she could have rushed her to knock her out of the area, but she knew that somehow, someway Xena would turn it around on her and manage to throw her from the ring. So instead Gabrielle watched, holding her breath, as Xena’s heels and toes teetered back and forth near the ring, hoping she would tumble out on her own.

Gabrielle released her breath as Xena got her footing and gave Gabrielle a playful grin. Soon, however, the grin vanished and the warrior charged. Gabrielle steadied her breathing and dug in getting her footing in place. A second later she too dashed toward the warrior. They both locked arms and in the same moment turned in opposite directions. Two seconds later, both women were lying in a cloud of dust, sprawled out on the ground.

The crowd grew a bit quiet until some spectators began to speak up. "Blue fell first!" someone yelled.

"No way! Red went down first!"

Gabrielle and Xena both looked at the announcer to see if he would call the match. "Sorry folks," he answered. "It’s a tie. Take back your biddings."

A collective sound of frustration and disgust went through the crowd at the news as the announcer apologized, but quickly went to work in finding two more warriors for the ring.

Xena rose first and offered her hand to Gabrielle, which the bard took.

"Good match." Gabrielle grinned.

"Yeah. Good match," Xena replied. "We better find the academy before nightfall. Let’s go."

Gabrielle watched as Xena walked away and she cocked her head at the warrior as she moved. Something’s not right, Gabrielle considered silently.

"She get hurt?" Eve asked as she came up.

Gabrielle’s eyes didn’t leave Xena as she answered Eve’s question with one of her own. "What makes you say that?"

"I’m not sure. It just seems like something’s wrong with her," Eve answered.

Gabrielle looked to Eve briefly. "I’m glad you said that," Gabrielle replied. "I thought maybe I was over-reacting." I’ve gotta get her alone. "Look, why don’t you three head to the academy. It’s two streets up and then two blocks west, okay? We’ll meet you there."

"Alright," Eve answered, as she motioned Ep and August to follow her.

Gabrielle followed Xena and jogged a bit to catch up to her. 

"Hey," she said getting the warrior’s attention. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, I’m fine."

Gabrielle pursed her lips together for a moment. 

"Okay. Now give me the real answer. What’s the matter?"

"It’s nothing."

"Did I hurt you, Xena?"

"No, I told you. I’m okay. Really. It’s nothing."

"Okay," Gabrielle answered with a nod. "We agreed to be honest with each other, so I’ll believe you. Of course, if you’re not okay then this would be the time to work on that ‘opening up’ thing that we’ve discussed." She grinned.

Xena saw the grin and gave a small one herself. 

"Okay," Xena sighed. "Maybe something is wrong. But it’s pretty damn petty and I feel stupid for even feeling like this."

"Like what?" Gabrielle asked, trying to look into Xena’s eyes that were looking everywhere but to her.

Finally, Xena willed herself to look at Gabrielle. 

"I got my ass kicked by a bard," she answered. "I think I’m losing it."

Gabrielle didn’t know whether to be flattered or angry. Could she find humor in this situation or was it truly sad? She cleared her throat as she wondered how to reply.

"Instead of thinking that you’re ‘losing it’ as you say, perhaps you could see this as a testament to the fact that ‘I’ve’ gotten better."

"Yeah, better than me," Xena answered.

"Okay," Gabrielle began. "I’m starting to have a real hard time right now. I don’t want to argue with you and I don’t want to get upset. But I’m not sure how to put your ‘fears’ to rest without making myself look cheap in the process... I’m not going to tell you that you’re a better warrior than me. I’m not going to say that I’m a better warrior than you are. Neither of those points are true nor do they reflect anything in ‘real life’."

"Alright," Xena sighed, "Explain this to the warrior because I’m just not following you," she added.

Stay calm, Gabrielle, the bard warned herself. Don’t get upset. Just explain. Calmly. Rationally.

"Xena," Gabrielle started. "I have strengths in battle. You have strengths in battle. What happened here today was NOT a battle. You didn’t ‘give it your all’ and neither did I. I mean let’s face it. If it was anyone else in that ring either one of us would have wiped the floor with our opponent or at least ended it long before we did. So don’t think the ‘draw’ means that you’re any less of a warrior because that’s not true."

Xena nodded and felt a small grin to her face.

"But in the same token please don’t think that I’m any less of a warrior. I put up a good fight like you did. I hope you can recognize that without feeling threatened by it... I did what I set out to do all those years ago - I became a warrior - like Xena. Not EXACTLY like her... but ‘like’ her. I fight for the same things. I believe in the same things. I realize I might not every have the number of skills that she has..." Gabrielle grinned as she played with the word ‘skills’. "But I’m pretty damn good because I learned from the best... I just wish she’d see that," she added in more of a sober tone.

Xena grinned and nodded her head. "Gabrielle, I do see that. In fact I’d venture to say that’s part of the problem. Looks like the student has surpassed the teacher."

"No," Gabrielle answered. "I think the student and the teacher can learn things from each other... if they are both willing... Are you? Are you prepared to truly see me as a warrior in my own right? I ask because I think you need to if we’re going to keep moving forward. That’s not an ultimatum, Xena. It’s a fact. You have to SEE ME if you want to be WITH ME."

"I want to be with you," Xena answered. "But just keep in mind that sometimes when I DO see you like today... well... it knocks me a little off balanced... But I’m more than willing to get back on track... as long as you have patience with me." Xena grinned.

"It’s gonna be a tough road."

"Yes, it will."

"It’s not going to be easy in the slightest."

"No, it isn’t."

Gabrielle grinned. "I’m always up for a challenge. How ‘bout you?"

"Always," Xena grinned as she took Gabrielle’s hand to catch up to their traveling party. "Always."

RESERVATIONS

Upon finding the academy and getting August registered for the upcoming poetry competition in two weeks, the group made their way to the inn. Before they set foot inside, however, Eponin pulled Gabrielle to the side.

"Mind if I speak to you?" she asked, gently capturing Gabrielle’s arm.

"No, not at all," Gabrielle answered.

Xena steadied her breathing. No jealous fits. Not now. Give her space. Calmly. Quietly. "We’ll see if they have any rooms open," Xena offered as she lead Eve and August inside. Gabrielle gave a nod then turned to Eponin.

‘What is it?" Gabrielle asked.

Eponin looked unsure of where to begin. 

"I know you’ll be staying with Xena tonight."

"Actually I hadn’t considered where I’d be staying, but in truth you’re probably right. Xena and I -."

"Are giving it another shot. I know," Eponin finished. "I don’t want to get in your way, Gabrielle. Not as if I could anyway."

Gabrielle opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. She closed it again and tried once more, unable to find the right words. "I feel bad in a way," she finally muttered.

"Why?" Eponin asked. "I knew the score."

"I feel like I used you," Gabrielle answered, unable to look at Eponin.

"You did use me," Eponin replied. That made Gabrielle look up. Instead of the scowl she was expecting Gabrielle found the amazon grinning. "And truth be known, I used you too. That’s what friends do Gabrielle. They use each other. They use their strength, their faith, their laughter and even their tears at times when they need it most... I ‘hid out’ in that little town for so many years until you came along. You got me out into the world again. I used you as a crutch to come out. And I know that you used me as a test in your love for Xena. I’m not bitter about that. Disappointed, yes," Eponin chuckled in a carefree tone. "But not bitter... Friends want what’s best for each other. As much as I hate to admit it, the best thing for you is Xena, warts and all. I just hope she does right by you... and not just because I wished I could be your lover... it’s because you’re my friend."

Gabrielle was on the verge of tears. 

"I’m glad I have friends left... After being gone all this time I think about the people Xena and I knew - Autolycus, Salmoneus, Minya." Gabrielle smiled bittersweetly. "All of them wonderful people. All of them friends that I might not ever see again... Hell with all this business with Eve I haven’t even made it home. My parents could be dead. My sister..." Gabrielle couldn’t finish and Eponin didn’t let her. The ex-amazon could only imagine what it felt like to lose 25 years of your life without a trace. She held the bard close and kissed the top of her head.

"I think your next trip should be home, Gabrielle. Find some closure on all this," Eponin advised tenderly.

Gabrielle wiped her eyes. "It will probably be Amphipolis first," she answered. They would hit that town first before traveling southward to Poteidaia. "Cyrene, Xena’s mom... I wonder if she’s alive."

Eponin smiled warmly, "Well, if she’s anything like her daughter I’m sure the old gal's still around and kickin’."

Gabrielle smiled too. "Will you come with us?" she asked.

It was Eponin’s turn to look around. 

"Like I said, I’m not bitter, but I don’t want to be the third wheel in your personal life. You’ll have a lot of catching up to do with Xena and your daughter. I think I’ll bow out gracefully," she added, finally meeting the bard’s eyes.

"I understand," Gabrielle nodded. "But I have to ask, what will you do?"

"I’m not sure. Maybe stay here in Athens, keeping August out of trouble. Perhaps find another amazon tribe and settle down. Who knows? Maybe I’ll travel the countryside helping innocents along the way." She grinned playfully. "All I know is I won’t be hiding anymore; thanks to you."

"Come on," Gabrielle said leading Eponin into the inn. "You’re gonna make me cry again," she teased. They walked in arm in arm, to see the trio sitting at a small bar. August seemed to be eating as Xena and Eve were... arguing? What on earth are they arguing about? Gabrielle wondered.

Eponin gave Gabrielle her space and walked over to August as Gabrielle took a seat between bickering mother and daughter.

"So anything new?" Gabrielle said casually, hoping one of them would bite.

"I want my own room tonight," Eve announced.

Gabrielle turned to catch the tail end of Xena making a disapproving facial gesture at their daughter. Of course Xena tried to play it off as if she had something stuck in her teeth, but it didn’t fool the bard.

"Okaaaaay," Gabrielle answered, unsure of what was transpiring. "Any reason why? Hot date tonight?" she teased.

"No," Eve answered. "I just think that you and mother could use sometime alone is all. I mean, let’s face it. You really haven’t been alone since you got out of Ares deep freeze. I think you might need it is all."

"Time alone?" Gabrielle asked her daughter. "Hmmm... I guess so. Do you have a problem with that?" she asked Xena.

"Not at all." Xena grinned. "We’re just running low on funds is all and I didn’t want to be presumptuous to think you’d want a room... alone... with me."

Gabrielle couldn’t contain her chuckle.

"What’s so funny?" Xena asked.

"You," Gabrielle answered. "You sound like a bashful bridegroom."

Eve started to chuckle too, but Xena just grinned and played it off.

"Yeah, yeah, yeah," Xena answered. "You two go ahead and laugh it up. I can’t help that I worry I might offend you."

"Xena," Gabrielle answered putting her hand on top of Xena’s that sat on the bar. "Say whatever is on your mind. If you offend me, I’ll let you know. It’s not like I’m gonna take your head off." Xena looked guiltily into her stew at the expression. "Sorry. Poor choice of words, okay? I didn’t mean anything by it."

"I’m sorry for hitting you, Gabrielle," Xena said looking over to her.

The bard tightened her hand around the warriors'. "I know, Xena. You’ve told me every day since we’ve met again. And I know each time you say it you truly mean it. But you have to move on here, okay? We both do."

"She’s right," Eve piped in gingerly. "Gabrielle, felt terrible about what happened between us. And I’ve forgiven her. I think you need to find forgiveness in yourself."

"I don’t think I’m ready to do that, Eve," Xena answered before turning back to Gabrielle, "I don’t ever want to forget it. I want to be reminded so it never happens again," Xena added.

"You don’t have to forget it," Gabrielle offered. "Just try to realize that I forgive you."

"I’ll try, but I can’t promise anything ,Gabrielle."

"That’s all I can ask of you," she answered. "Just try your best, okay?"

Xena nodded and the trio finished their meal with minimal chatter. As night fell, August and Eponin retired to their room. They felt it was safer if the amazon bunked with the young woman in case of would be prowlers. True to her word, Eve made her way to her room for the night, leaving Xena and Gabrielle down at the bar.

"How ya feelin’?" Gabrielle grinned. A grin that refused to leave thanks to the amount of ale she had consumed.

Xena pursed her lips, looking around the room, nodding her head soundly. 

"Drunk," she answered.

Both women erupted into a fit of giggles. "I just pray nothing BAD happens tonight," Xena confessed in a whispered voice. "No warlords, no vengeful gods, nothing... BAD... I don’t think I’m up to a battle at this point."

"Perhaps we should get the warrior princess to bed then."

Xena could hear the seductive tone in the bard’s voice. She loved it and feared it all at once. She’d pray she’d hear Gabrielle speak to her this way again, but she didn’t want it to be drug induced. The alcohol was doing most of the talking tonight and Xena knew that wasn’t what either woman wanted or what they needed. Jumping into the sheets would be the cure for all that pent up need, but she didn’t want anyone hating anyone in the morning.

"I thought you said we should take things easy; slow," Xena challenged as she swayed slightly on her barstool.

"I can go slow," the bard said before capturing the warrior’s earlobe in her teeth. "and I can go easy," she added as she proceeded to nibble on Xena’s jaw line.

Xena cleared her throat and yelled to the barkeep, "Check please!"

INEBRIATION

Xena was barely inside the door when bumbling fingers tried to unhook her breastplate. 

"Here," she said stopping the bard's efforts to lend a hand. It took much focus, but Xena managed to free herself from the armor and toss it across the room. Before the brass could hit the ground she was falling back to the bed with the amorous amazon on top of her, showering her with kisses.

Xena did nothing to stop the bard's roaming hands and lips from conquering her body. She craved it. She desired it from deep within her. When playing the passive got to be too much, Xena rolled the bard over, passionately pinning her to the bed.

"Oh Gods, Xena," the bard mumbled.

Oh yeah, Xena’s drunken mind exclaimed. She still wants me.

"Xena," the bard called again. "I want you-."

"Oh Gabrielle," the warrior whispered in her ear, making sure to leave a few light kisses on her lobe. "I want you so much too."

"No, Xena. I want you to move," Gabrielle said pushing the warrior aside roughly.

Too much too soon, Xena realized as she watched the bard shove her away. She doesn’t want me after all.

Gabrielle rose to her feet at lightening speed and darted across the room to the chamber pot.

I made it, Gabrielle’s mind congratulated herself as she fell to her knees. Seconds later, the evenings ale she had consumed took up resident in the pot. 

"Oh gods," the bard moaned after the first few heaves.

Xena was on the verge of laughing. Not that she wanted to see the bard meet this sickly fate. Perhaps it was a much-needed diversion to something that neither of them was quite prepared for. She had to admit she was relieved. I know it’s the alcohol and not me, she considered.

Xena slowly rose, since the room was spinning a bit for her too. Carefully, she walked over, bringing a hand towel with her.

"Here you go, Sweetheart," Xena said handing it to the bard. She took a seat next to Gabrielle and pushed her hair behind her ear. "Feeling a little better?" she asked.

Gabrielle wiped her chin and tried to grin despite the fact her stomach was still doing back flips. 

"A little," she answered.

Xena just continued to stroke the bard’s hair. "It’s gotten longer."

"What?" Gabrielle asked, unsure of what Xena meant. She raised her eyes and tried to focus on Xena, meeting with only minimal success, although she was perhaps only two feet away.

"Your hair. It’s gotten longer... I like it," Xena answered.

"I didn’t think you noticed," Gabrielle replied.

"Yeah," Xena said kissing her cheek. "I noticed. You’re very beautiful."

Gabrielle recognized the look in Xena’s eye. Oh no. Not tonight.

"Xena, I don’t think I’m up to being affectionate tonight and I know what that look means... besides I just lost all the ale I drank tonight. You can’t possibly find that sexy," she added with a slight chuckle.

Xena continued to stroke the bard’s hair. 

"Well... vomiting can be a very intimate experience. Next to my mother, you’re the only one who’s ever seen me sick... ever. You’re pretty damn vulnerable when you’re in that ‘position’," Xena laughed. "It might not be sexy... but it shows a level of trust. You can... be yourself so to speak and not have to worry about keep up ‘appearances’."

"Trust me, Xena," Gabrielle chuckled. "I didn’t have much of a choice. It was you or the pot... But I get the point. I feel I can be myself with you. And you’d still love me anyway, huh?"

Xena just simply nodded her answer. Forever and ever.

"You know I’d never had that until you came along. Perdicus loved me because he was supposed to, but I would have drove him crazy in the end. I’d never be the good little wife. My parents loved me but... I was a brash, outspoken girl who never realized my ‘place’. My sister loved me too, but we were never ‘equal’ – I was older, smarter, prettier... I miss them, Xena. I’d like to see them, but I’m scared to see them. Does that make any sense? It’s been 25 years and... And I’d like to see them, Xena. Could we see them do you think? Could we just go home for a little bit? Would that be okay, Xena?"

Gabrielle might have emptied her stomach, but she was still drunk. She was rambling. Xena didn’t often see the bard intoxicated in their journeys, but she could still tell she was a bit tipsy. Overly affectionate and running off repeatedly about the same thing were always the clues to Xena.

"For you?" Xena replied. "Yeah, I think we can do that. Did you want to leave tomorrow?"

Gabrielle bobbed her head up and down a little more than necessary. "Amphipolis is first. I’d like to see your mom. I love your mom a lot. She’s like my mom, you know? She threw me a birthday party. My mom didn’t throw me a party. Do you remember that, Xena? Do you remember my party? After we dumped Discord we had a really good time. I love your mom a lot, Xena. I wonder if she’s still alive... It would be great to show her our daughter. Wouldn’t that be great, Xena?"

Xena smiled. Yes it would... if she’s still alive. 25 years is a long time. "I think that’s a wonderful idea."

"Yeah, but this time she can’t try setting you up. You’re mine warrior princess and if the lady tries to make it otherwise you set her straight this time. Got it? No beating around the bush, understand? Should’ve told her then. Eve didn’t need a daddy. She’s got two mothers that love her very much. Right, Xena?"

Oh my bard is on a roll tonight, Xena chuckled silently. Best if you just agree. "Yes, Gabrielle."

"Damn straight!" the bard nodded firmly. Soon after, however, the rest of her body began to sway.

"Okay," Xena replied moving to her feet, gingerly taking the bard with her. "Let’s go to bed now."

"But Xena I don’t think I can... you know... tonight," Gabrielle said concerned.

"Sleep was all I had in mind," Xena answered. "Let’s just rest tonight, okay?"

Gabrielle looked like she was going to cry. 

"I’m not a tease, Xena. I don’t want you to think I’m a tease. I do really love you and I do think you’re sexy," she said as Xena took her back toward the bed. "The blue eyes. The leather. Ares likes you in leather. I like you in leather too. I like you out of leather most of all. You have a beautiful body, Xena. And blue eyes. Did I tell you you’ve got these great blue eyes?"

"Three times now, Gabrielle." Xena grinned. 

"Well, it’s true. You have beautiful blue eyes. In fact... What was I sayin?... Oh yeah, blue eyes. You’ve got that ‘steely gaze’ that just does something fantastic to me. You know?"

Xena had to chuckle at this point while she took the bard’s boots and skirt off. Yeah, she’s totally gone.

"Xena?"

"Yes Gabrielle?"

"I have I told you lately that I love you?"

That questioned seemed to sober Xena up for a moment. 

"No, you haven’t," she answered honestly.

"Well, I do... I love you Xena. You are my soulmate."

Xena was going to reply in kind, but the bard was now out - dead to the world.

Carefully, and with a bit of swaying, Xena managed to remove her battle dress until she only donned her shift. She rolled the bard a bit here and there until the smaller woman was tucked under the covers then she climbed into bed too. She snuggled around the bard, her head on Gabrielle’s shoulder and her arm protectively draped around the bard's mid-drift.

"I love you too, Gabrielle," the warrior said even though she knew the woman was in deep slumber. "You are my soulmate. My tree." She grinned.

She remembered the tale Gabrielle told once earlier in their travels about two trees in the forest forever being joined. She remembered how she joked about making a boat out of the trees and telling Gabrielle that someday she would find her tree. She never guessed back then that she would be the mighty oak that the bard searched for. But she was happy for the position.

"And I’ll never take it for granted again," she whispered into the bard’s shoulder. She looked up and gently stroked the bard’s sleeping face. "My source, my reason... my everything," she muttered to no one but herself.

With that she settled into the bard’s arms as slumber fell upon her too.

REUNITED

Gabrielle sat up in bed, her back resting against the headboard. Her head was pounding, but not nearly as bad as she thought it would. Xena finished opening the window to circulate some air in the room and turned back to the bard.

"Do you remember anything from last night?" the warrior chuckled.

"Everything," the bard answered. She watched as Xena reached down and picked up the chamber pot to take it outside.

"Even this," the warrior said raising the pot just a bit.

"Sadly, yes." Gabrielle grinned.

Xena paused a moment. "Last night you said you loved me; that I’m your soulmate. I didn’t get the chance to tell you, but... I love you too and you’re still my soulmate. You always will be."

Gabrielle grinned and fidgeted a bit with the blanket. "You know... that would seem really romantic and sweet if not for the fact that you’re holding that bucket right now," Gabrielle joked.

Xena briefly looked down and back to the bard. "Bad timing, huh?" the warrior nodded.

"Just a little." Gabrielle smiled.

"I’ll work on that I promise." The warrior grinned. "I’ll be back in a few."

Xena opened the door, but paused in the doorway. "I’d give you a kiss goodbye, but..." she said as she motioned to her full hands.

"I won’t take it personal. Believe me," Gabrielle laughed.

Xena gave Gabrielle a bright smile. "I’ll be right back, sweetheart."

No one was up, but the innkeeper, as Xena walked downstairs.

 "Gotta place I can empty this?" Xena asked.

"Yeah, right out back," he said pointing to the back door.

"Thanks," Xena replied. She did has he instructed and emptying the pan. Upon cleaning it out and washing her hands by a well outside, Xena went back in. "Could I get some salt, cinnamon, ale and mint leaves?"

"Someone’s got a hang over, eh?" he grinned.

"Just a small one." Xena grinned.

"Let me see what I can round up." He smiled warmly.

He seemed like a nice enough fellow, Xena considered as she watched him make his way to the back, toward the kitchen. A few minutes later he returned with a tray and all the items, except for the cinnamon.

"What do I owe you?" Xena said.

"Don’t worry about it. You gals drank enough ale last night. It’s on the house," he said with a smile.

Smart ass... but very true. Xena grinned. "I’ll let her know we’ve kept you in business for the next month," she answered dryly before cracking a smile. "Thanks."

He gave a chuckle and a nod before he went back to his morning preparations. Xena climbed the stairs back to their room, doing a good balancing act. She managed to make it into the room and Gabrielle tried to dart over when she saw Xena’s hands were full, but she didn’t even make it to the end of the bed. She groaned and held her temples.

"I got it," Xena chastised. "Stay put." Xena slid the tray to the nightstand and put the pot on the other side of the room.

She inhaled deeply and turned to the bard. "Smells better in here already," she teased.

Gabrielle’s hand rubbed her forehead, trying to hide her face as she blushed. "I’m sorry," she answered in a meek voice.

"That’s okay," Xena replied, going to the stand to mix her concoction. She made a quick stop to her saddleback and pulled out some nutmeg. I’d rather have cinnamon, but this should do, she considered. Next, she got out the white powder they used for pain now and then. She put a little in the ale along with the salt and mixed it up. "Here. Drink this."

"What is it?" Gabrielle asked.

"Hangover remedy. You’ll feel as good as new."

"What’s in it?"

"Don’t worry about that." Xena smiled. "Just drink it."

Gabrielle gave a sniff. "It’s ale. You’re giving me ale?"

"Nothing else will stay down believe me. You will feel better I promise."

Gabrielle gave a small sip and cringed.

"Take a big drink," Xena coached.

Gabrielle looked at the mug. Then at Xena. Then the mug. Then at Xena.

"Trust me."

Gabrielle took a deep breath before taking six healthy swallows.

"Oh Xena, that’s sick," she said shoving the mug toward Xena, trying to breathe again.

"Here," Xena answered, giving her the mint. "Chew this. It will make the taste go away and settle your stomach."

Gabrielle didn’t argue. Hell, anything has to taste better than that ale, she considered. As Gabrielle chewed, Xena downed the rest of the mug. The bard grinned as she watched the warrior cringe. At least, I’m not the only one who had to live through that, she thought as the warrior’s face contorted. Xena grabbed the other leaves and began to chew like the bard.

"Well, at least we’ll be minty fresh now," the bard teased as she rolled the leaves around in her mouth.

Xena grinned with closed lips. She then spit the leaves in the mug and handed it to the bard to do the same.

"How ya feelin’?" the warrior asked.

"Well, the inn has stopped spinning now," Gabrielle replied. "The room doesn’t smell like an outhouse and I can actually see just one of you now."

Xena chuckled and took the mug from the bard. She placed it on the dresser near the chamber pot and returned to bed, but not before stripping herself of her battledress and boots. Gabrielle was still propped up against the headboard, so Xena stretched out putting her head in Gabrielle’s lap.

The warrior felt rather than heard Gabrielle chuckle as she lay there feeling the bard stroking her hair.

"What?" Xena asked.

"You’re so big you don’t fit our bed." Gabrielle smiled and pointed to the end where Xena’s feet were hanging over.

Xena looked down at her dangling ankles. "So I see. Perhaps I should scoot up," she replied as she leered up at the bard.

"You can scoot if you want," Gabrielle replied in a soft tone.

Xena slowly threw her leg over Gabrielle’s and crept up her body until they were eye to eye. Gabrielle sat against the headboard while Xena knelt on all fours in front of her.

"Do I fit now?" Xena asked lecherously.

Gabrielle couldn’t even blink. She was so captivated by the sight in front of her. She realized at some point she had begun to hold her breath in anticipation and released it with a single word.

"Perfectly."

"Mmm, good answer," Xena replied as her lips covered the bard’s gently. Xena would have continued, but she felt the bard was a bit tense. When she looked down to Gabrielle’s hands she noticed the bed sheets were in a ball within the bard’s tight fists.

"Nervous." The warrior grinned.

Gabrielle released her grasp when she saw that Xena took notice of it. 

No sense in lying. "A little. I mean... aren’t you?"

Well, now that you mention it... "I guess. But I know that I love you. And I know that you love me. And I know I desire you more than anything in this world. That just keeps my nerves at bay I guess," Xena concluded. When Gabrielle didn’t add more, Xena spoke up again, "Look, I’m not gonna push you, Gabrielle. If you’re not ready-."

Gabrielle put her finger over Xena’s lips. 

"Believe me." She smiled. "I’m ready. I’m more than ready. I’m way past ready here... I suppose I’m just... worried."

Xena smiled warmly and sighed. Cool yourself down here warrior. Sensitive bard chat time. 

"What are you worried about?" Xena asked with a smile as she stroked Gabrielle’s face.

Gabrielle started to blush and looked away for a moment. "It’s stupid," she chuckled.

"Come on," Xena prodded gently. "Tell me. What’s got you worried?"

It was Gabrielle’s turn to sigh. Just say it... "It feels like the first time... all over again."

"I remember the first time," Xena smiled. "We kept the amazons up all night." She grinned. "You were a wonderful lover. You’ve always been wonderful."

"I might have been wonderful, but I had butterflies in my stomach the size of seagulls."

Xena chuckled.

"What?"

"You," Xena said kissing the top of Gabrielle’s nose. "You’re so descriptive. I love you, my bard. I really do."

A comfortable silence fell between them as they just stared at each other, admiring one another; not just their physical beauty, but the traits they each had that brought them together.

"I love you too," Gabrielle finally whispered in response.

She stroked the warrior’s face and Gabrielle felt her heart skip when she watched the warrior soaking it up with closed eyes. Slowly, Gabrielle’s hand trailed down Xena’s neck. She could feel the warrior’s pulse pumping harder and as a result she felt hers rise as well. When her fingers drifted to play with the cleavage line of Xena’s shift, the warrior was so warm. Her blood was racing fast. Suddenly Gabrielle too felt too warm for her undergarments.

Slowly, Xena opened her eyes and focused on the bard who was so wrapped up in examining her body she didn’t notice she was being watched. When they did lock eyes, Xena was grateful that the bard didn’t shy away like before. She met Xena’s lustful glare with one of her own.

"You’re everything to me," Xena whispered to the bard.

Gabrielle’s fingertips reached up and traced Xena’s lips, feeling the warmth and fire that they promised. It had been months... in truth, years, since Gabrielle saw that kind of passion in Xena’s eyes when she looked at her. Xena wanted her unlike she wanted anything. Antony got some pretty lustful glances in Egypt. But it was nothing like the look that Gabrielle was getting this moment in Athens. Oh no, he never got this look. Not this one that says I’m it. I’m the one... God I have to have her.

With that thought, Gabrielle’s lips seized the warrior with abandon. Everything began to melt away - the trials they faced, the years they lost. All they had was this moment and in this moment all they had was each other. Hands searched and pulled and pressed and within minutes both women were totally nude and totally absorbed in each other. Both of their bodies started to become slick with excitement.

Glistened. That was the word Gabrielle used when describing how Xena looked when they made love. She glistened. On this morning, however, she glistened and shimmered and shined brighter than any star in the heavens. Gabrielle caressed Xena’s face moving the warrior’s damp bangs out of her eyes. Gabrielle had to admit she only saw Xena like this in bed and after a hard fought battle - and both made her blood boil with excitement.

Gabrielle raised her leg, making just the slightest of contact with the warrior’s center. The favorable moan she received as a result brought a grin to her face and a fire to her sex she’d never experience before. She loved Xena with her all her mind, body and soul. Yet today, when months before she never thought she’d have the warrior again, it had a greater depth and meaning to it. She felt charged. As if Zeus had struck her with a lightening bolt, rattling her soul to it’s foundation. She had no choice, but to moan in response.

Xena heard the sexy whimper come from her bard. Her bard. Not Najara’s. Not Eli’s. Not anyone whom Xena saw as a rival for Gabrielle’s talents or affections. Ares even tried his hand at taking her away with no success. Gabrielle had strayed from her path now and then, but Xena knew that Gabrielle’s heart was hers and hers alone. And she’d work everyday from this day forward to prove that Gabrielle had made the right choice. But for right now the only work that Xena wanted to engage in was bringing the bard ecstasy.

She loved the way Gabrielle whimpered in her desire. She loved the way Gabrielle looked deep into her eyes trying to read her soul. Just like she was doing at this moment as their bodies began a rhythm - hot and slick.

With all her prior lovers not a single one could she meet their eyes. At least not for the amount of time that she let Gabrielle see her - the ‘real’ her. She wanted to be the best lover Gabrielle ever had. She wanted to be the only lover Gabrielle would ever have. People could admire her, fantasize about her, perhaps even touch her if that’s what Gabrielle wanted. But no one, NO ONE, would be better than her... ever. Xena’s athletic prowess on the battlefield would be nothing like the prowess that Gabrielle would experience in bed. People called Xena the best of the best. Of course, they meant her warrior status. But Xena wanted to ensure that the term carried over into the bedroom in Gabrielle’s mind - into her mind, over her body and down through to her soul.

As Xena felt Gabrielle take hold of her hips, guiding her across her thigh, trying with all her might to help the warrior climax, the warrior closed her eyes.

She, not so quietly, fantasized about times past - the extended stays with the amazons, nights out under the stars, the booth at the back of a darken tavern in many a town. Xena was always amazed at how daring Gabrielle could be sexually.

The time at Gabrielle’s parent's house was probably the best and most dangerous. They stopped by for a quick visit and the bard tortured her all day long with sexual innuendoes that went over her family’s head, but were crystal clear to the warrior. The bard was gonna get it good when she got her alone, Xena decided. And Xena did get her chance.

In the early morning hours, Xena woke to find Gabrielle gone from her bed and a note on her pillow. ‘Meet me in the barn’ was all it said. Xena grabbed her leathers, but didn’t bother to put them on just yet. She walked out to the barn to find Gabrielle, stark naked. Xena couldn’t believe her eyes. Any minute now Gabrielle’s father would be rising to start the day and in all likelihood, be headed toward the barn first. Gabrielle sensed Xena’s indecision and gave the final prod.

"No guts; no glory," she told the warrior, casually flicking her long blonde hair seductively over her shoulder.

That did it. Xena had guts. And she’d have glory that morning too. She’d take that woman in the barn and she didn’t give a damn if the whole town came in to watch. Both women were close when the rooster began to crow.

"He’ll be out here any minute you know," Gabrielle whispered in the warrior’s ear as their fingers pumped in and out of each other.

Xena could only groan. She was well beyond the point of no return.

"He’s gonna walk out here and find you doin’ his little girl you big bad warrior," Gabrielle teased in a heated whisper, moving faster and harder. "He’s gonna hear you come all over my fingers and he’s gonna catch yours buried deep inside me. And you love it don’t you? Don’t you, Xena? Don’t you?"

"Yes," the warrior answered as her eyes shot open, returning from her fantasy. She looked down the see the shorthaired blonde smile up at her, feeling the quake that poured over both their bodies in the little Athenian inn this morning. So close, Xena’s mind called. A little more Gabrielle. A little more. "Please," however was all Xena could manage to say.

Not wanting to break the rhythm or contact Gabrielle rose just a bit and slid her fingers between her thigh and Xena’s sex which rode her harder now than before. She knew that Xena liked things a bit rougher closer to her climax. Once her finger were able to take over Gabrielle could move to sit up a bit. Given her size she fit perfect to the warrior’s bustline.

The bard seized the nipple in front of her with such force she was sure it would bruise. But she also knew that was something the warrior would love. Xena’s orgasm ripped through her body as she grabbed Gabrielle by the back of the head, burying her fingers into the blonde locks, crying out in a consuming pleasure.

The ripples still quaked through Xena’s body when she pulled Gabrielle from her breast and pushed the bard back to the bed. In one strong heave she picked up Gabrielle’s lower half of her body, tossing the bard’s knees over her shoulders until the bard was rested on square on her shoulders. Gabrielle looked up to the warrior who paused for a moment to teasingly blow on the bard’s slick center.

"Please," Gabrielle whispered.

"Please what?" Xena asked slyly. Gabrielle groaned as Xena gave a single playful lick from her clitoris to her anus. "You gotta tell me," she bantered.

The bard took a shaken breath. "Feast on me," she moaned.

With an arch of her eyebrow, Xena replied, "As you wish."

Gabrielle hands reached out and grabbed Xena’s legs as Xena’s mouth went wild against her. Only a few moments had passed, but Gabrielle knew it wouldn’t take much more. Besides, she wanted this release. She needed it beyond words at this point. Xena’s hair cascaded down and tickled her thighs and stomach. She loved every moment. Xena stopped the task with her mouth and gave a few light slaps and rubs to the bard’s center.

"Come on, Gabrielle. Come on, sweetheart. Let me hear you. Come on, sweetheart. Let it go. Release it. For me, Gabrielle. Give it to me, sweetheart... Let me drink you."

That sent Gabrielle over the edge. Xena’s hands and sexy request was all she needed. Wave after wave crashed over as she repeated the warrior’s name over and over with each vibration she felt in her body. Xena lapped at her like a thirsty kitten at a saucer of milk. Gabrielle watched as Xena licked her lips, all the while not breaking eye contact in the slightest. Gently, Xena returned Gabrielle back down to the bed.

"Mmmm" Xena hummed coming up to meet the bard face-to-face. "See how wonderful you taste?" she asked the bard before giving her a deep, soulful kiss. Gabrielle could taste her own excitement on Xena’s lips and tongue. It started a whole new set of fantasies in each woman’s mind.

Hands began to roam anew. Minds began to jump from the present to the past to the present again. Hearts they thought were lost to each other were once again found.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Eve, August and Eponin all looked up from their lunch when they heard a door upstairs open. Quietly, Xena and Gabrielle made their way downstairs.

"I’m surprised they’re dressed," Eponin remarked with a chuckle that got her a nudge from both Eve and August who were on either side of her.

"Good morning," Gabrielle answered with a grin that refused to leave.

"Morning?" Eve teased. "That was about 4 hours ago. The sun is quite high at this point," she added.

Before Xena and Gabrielle could reply, a warrior in armor walked in.

"I’m looking for Xena, the warrior princess."

Oh no, Xena sighed inwardly. And the day was going so good.

"I’m Xena," the warrior reluctantly raised her hand. Not that she was fearful of the solider. She just didn’t want to have to kick someone’s ass after such a beautiful morning.

"I deliver a message from Ares, the god of war," he said handing her a scroll. With a salute, the solider walked out.

Xena unrolled it and read it. "Seems Ares needs us to meet him... Guess he'll have to wait," Xena answered.

Gabrielle took the scroll. "I know what I said earlier Xena, but perhaps we should check this out. Besides, it’s not like it’s out of our way or anything. Let’s see what he wants and then head to Amphipolis. Agreed?" Gabrielle asked as she rolled up the scroll while Xena and Eve nodded.

Outside, however, they didn’t see the solider round the corner and vanish into thin air. Moments later the solider materialized at Ares camp in the amazon hills. He strolled into Ares tent without announcement. Ares looked up.

"Did you do it?"

Suddenly the armor melted away and a pink nighty took its place, along with the body of Aphrodite. "Yeah, I did it... but I gotta ask... Are you feeling okay?"

"Since when did you care?" Ares replied sarcastically. "You could get me the ambrosia you know?"

She paused a moment with her finger to her temple in thought. "You know that’s a good idea. I could turn you back into the God of War and you could go off and kill lots and lots of people - - NOT!! You’re better off this way Ares. Trust me."

"I don’t trust you. I don’t trust anyone. Except Xena. Xena I trust. She’s coming right?" Ares asked.

"Chill out," Dite said. "Are you sure you’re okay because you’re acting a bit wigged there bro’?"

"Leave me," he told his sister.

Dite took a moment, but realized this conversation wasn’t getting her anywhere. "Whatever!" she retorted before disappearing.

Xena will come. She has to come. She helped before. She’ll help now. I just gotta get ready. I gotta prepare... She has to help. She has to. I’ve got no other choice.

The End

(and on to Bonding of Souls enjoy)