ForevaXena's FanFic . . .

Somewhere In Time (Revised Edition) by Friction

LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Xena:  Warrior Princess, Gabrielle and all other characters that have appeared in the syndicated series are the sole copyright property of MCA/Universal and Renaissance Pictures.  No copyright infringement was intended in the writing of this fan fiction.  This story cannot be sold or used for profit in any way.  Copies of this story may be made for private use only and must include all disclaimers and copyright notices.

LOVE/SEX WARNING DISCLAIMER: For some, Xena and Gabrielle’s relationship has transcended sex.  Frankly, if I began subscribing to that notion, my partner would check me for a pulse;-) For better or worse, my fantasies have not evolved beyond the romantic level, so you’re in for a fair amount of explicit sex between two consenting women.  If you're under 18, live someplace where this is illegal, or it’s not your thing please look elsewhere.  There is a lot of wonderful fan fiction of every variety to choose from.

GENRE: This story doesn’t fit anywhere neatly.   It’s semi-hurt/comfort and semi-uberxena.  Think romance.

SPECIAL WARNING: Some may find this a bit of a rocky road.   Hang in there.  I promise I’ll bring you home safely;-)

THANKS TO: (and they really deserve it.)
Many, many thanks to my three incredible proof readers/moral supporters: B L Miller, Lunacy and my partner, Pam.  This story simply would not have happened without them.  Their input made an incredible difference. 

DEDICATION: This is dedicated to my mother and father.  I hope with all my heart we will meet again... somewhere in time.

Part 1 of 6

Gabrielle looked anxiously across the fire at her companion.  The last several moons had been difficult.  So difficult, that for the first time in their travels together, the young woman felt a strain in their relationship.  The warrior had become aloof, keeping to herself for the most part.  It was clear Xena was slowly pulling away, distancing herself. 

The bard blamed herself.  Staring into the flames of their small fire, she thought back to the rash decision responsible for driving the wedge between them.

It began nearly three moons ago as they lay on their backs gazing up at the stars.  She had casually turned to face Xena, and in that instant everything changed.  For what she saw was not a fearsome warlord, nor a brave warrior, nor even her loyal friend, but merely a flesh and blood woman. Xena was, in that perfect moment, attainable.   And with that realization, came a startling discovery.

It began with a warm tingling that spread slowly throughout her body.  Suddenly, each of her senses seemed acutely amplified, making her keenly aware of the beautiful woman that lay beside her.  She longed to run her hands across the surface of Xena’s skin, to stroke the gentle slope of each and every sensual curve.  The warrior's scent hung in the air like an exotic aphrodisiac.  The urge to bury her face in Xena’s dark silky hair, to breathe in her essence was nearly overpowering. The woman beside her was utterly compelling.   Desire surged in her blood like a powerful drug, stripping her of all doubts and inhibitions.  Without thought, she reached out, her fingers lightly brushing the delicate hairs on Xena’s arm. 

Completely unaware of the change her friend had undergone, the warrior turned to Gabrielle and smiled.  Her unsuspecting eyes shone with trust and caring. 

Instantly, the bard snapped out of her erotic haze. As her mind cleared, it was once again her friend and companion she saw.  Her hand fell silently to the space between them, the moment lost.

Gabrielle barely slept that night as her fevered mind raced to understand the intense emotions she was experiencing, emotions that had lain dormant until that moment. Up until then, love and romance had only existed for her in stories.  Sex had been merely an abstract idea. 

Now everything was different. 

After experiencing the heat of her own desire, she could think of little else.   That singular glimpse of the woman in Xena had changed her life.  Her body had awakened.  For the first time, she understood what she had been missing

Now, even the most innocent interactions with the warrior aroused her.  Her pulse raced when her companion was near.  A brief glance from her friend made her breath quicken... a casual touch of the dark-haired woman’s hand sent waves of sensations throughout her body.  She had glimpsed Elyssia and her desire to experience it with Xena was impossible to ignore.  Her body craved fulfillment. 

This newfound hunger gave birth to endless sexual fantasies. Gabrielle found herself spending long stretches of time wondering what Xena would be like as a lover and how her vast experience would come into play.  Her passion for the warrior seemed to know no bounds. 

One night after the warrior had fallen asleep, she let her fantasies run rampant, allowing erotic images of the dark haired-woman fill her mind while she pleasured her own body.  At first, her fingers were tentative.  She hardly dared breathe as she slipped them beneath her breeches.  All the while, her eyes remained anxiously fixed on Xena afraid she would awaken.  As her fingers slowly moved over her heated sex, her fears began to fuel her fantasy and she allowed her eyes to close. 

In the deep recesses of her mind she envisioned the warrior catching her in the act.  What Xena would do?... 

The warrior’s sensitive hearing detected the quickening of her companion’s breath.  Turning to the bard, Xena saw the rhythmic movements of the young woman’s hand beneath the blanket.  She smiled and cleared her throat, fixing her gaze on the impassioned bard.  Gabrielle's eyes sprang open.  She blushed hotly, her hand freezing in place.  Mortified, she tried to look away, but the desire she saw in the warrior’s eyes drew her back.

"Don’t stop."  Xena whispered.

Gabrielle swallowed hard as the tall woman rose from her bedroll and approached.  Her body trembled.

"I want to watch."

Highly aroused by the warrior's request, she collected her courage and once again began moving her fingers through the slippery wetness of her sex. 

Xena smiled in approval and knelt at her feet.  Gabrielle's breath caught as the dark-haired woman grasped the bottom edge of the blanket and pulled it down, slowly uncovering her.  The blonde's heart hammered wildly in her chest.

"Yes... that’s very good.  Let me see... everything."

Intent on removing the last barrier to her view, Xena’s fingers gently tugged at the bard's breeches.  Gabrielle’s heart pounded furiously as the warrior languidly tossed them aside.  Face flushed, she turned her head, embarrassed by the intensity of her own desire.

"Look at me."  The warrior’s sensual voice was low and commanding.

Gabrielle could not deny her.  Gazing into the dark-haired woman's eyes, she trembled.  The passion she saw there was raw and undisguised, so erotic that the bard nearly missed her next command.

"Bend your knees.  Open for me."

Gabrielle moaned as she obeyed, her fingers moving in a steady rhythm over her sex.  Her orgasm was rapidly approaching.  She was nearly there.  One more stroke...

Suddenly, Xena’s fingers closed around her wrist, preventing her release.  The bard looked at her desperately.

The warrior smiled teasingly and shook her head.  "That is for me... only me."

Gabrielle released a shuddering breath as she felt Xena’s hand slide up her thigh toward its goal.  She moaned helplessly as the warrior’s insistent fingers parted her delicate folds.  Her touch was electric.  She climaxed on contact, crying out Xena’s name into the night...

The instant Gabrielle called out, the warrior awoke, jumping to her feet.  Weapon in hand, she stood protectively at her friend's side, scanning the area.

In explanation, the bard had nervously made up a story about a bad dream.  Fortunately, Xena accepted it.  But, the knowledge that she had lost control during her achingly real fantasy left Gabrielle uneasy.  She never tried to masturbate in the warrior's presence again.  Instead she quietly endured.

*****

The intensity of the bard's feelings confused and frightened her. She knew what she needed to be complete and couldn't have it.  Every moment with her friend became a torment. Yet as compelling as her desire was, she couldn't imagine expressing it to the warrior. There was no way to go back and no way to press forward.  The fear of rejection held her captive

Her secrecy offered no solace.   In masking her feelings from Xena, she became even more isolated.  The friend with whom she had been so completely at ease, now made her painfully uncomfortable.  As hard as she tried, she could not deny the truth that dwelled deep within her own heart.  She had fallen desperately in love with the warrior.  She was miserable.

At the height of this dilemma, Perdicus came back into her life, pledging his love.  Marrying him seemed the only solution, a way to push back her feelings and distance herself from their source.  And in fact, the whirlwind of wedding preparations had temporarily taken her mind off her friend.  But, her plan was doomed from the start.  Gabrielle had ignored two basic truths: first, that in the end there was no place to hide from her true feelings and secondly, that no one could ever make her forget Xena.

After the wedding, as she watched the warrior walk from the temple and out of her life, she felt her heart break.  Barely a candlemark passed before she longed for the erotic torment she had run from.  In addition, there was something much worse to contend with, something she had not foreseen.  She was separated from her best friend.  For the first time in many seasons they were apart and Gabrielle missed her more than she could ever have imagined.  

Desperately unhappy, trapped in a nightmare of her own making, she silently wished that Xena would return and take her away.  Sadly, there was no easy way to make things right

If her devastation at her friend's departure left any doubt about her true feelings, her wedding night confirmed them.   As Perdicus made love to her, it was Xena she longed for, Xena she desired.  When she closed her eyes, it was Xena’s face she saw.  Xena’s hands she felt.  And at that critical moment, it had been images of Xena that consumed her.  The vision was so real, that when Gabrielle opened her eyes, she was stunned and disappointed to find herself in the arms of a stranger.

After he had fallen asleep, she crept outside and looked up at the sky she so loved.  Now, the same wondrous stars she spent so many nights gazing at with her friend were a painful reminder of what she left behind.   She had walked away from the most precious thing in her world.  Never in her life had she felt so alone.  Silently, she prayed to the gods to reunite her with the warrior. 

For better or worse, her prayers had been answered.  Once again, she was traveling with Xena.  But her mistake was costly, leading Perdicus to an early grave.  She blamed herself for his death at Callisto’s hands. Compounding her guilt was the relief she felt... relief that she was back once again with her beloved warrior.

*****

Unfortunately, their friendship had been scarred by the ordeal.  The warrior was distant.  The unshakable trust the bard had once enjoyed was lost.  The special connection they shared was missing.  Whatever the reason, Xena was guarded and Gabrielle cautious, afraid to cause further damage. 

So many unspoken words lay between them, so many unresolved feelings.  The bard sensed her friend’s inner turmoil.  Xena had taken responsibility for Perdicus’ death, even though she had done everything in her power to save him.  Gabrielle wanted desperately to relieve her of that burden but could not bring herself to discuss his death.  The murder was still too vivid in her memory, her guilt too overpowering.  Instead, she remained silent, hoping time would heal their wounds.

But for her, time had run out. Something unexpected was about to make their lives vastly more complicated.  Gabrielle had missed her cycle.  At first she prayed that she was mistaken, that it was simply stress.  But as the days went on, there was no denying the inevitable. 

She agonized about telling Xena, fearing the warrior would see her to safety and leave.  There was nothing but their tattered friendship to hold Xena to her.  She had no right to ask the warrior to give up her life, her quest for redemption.  So, unable to face the prospect of losing her companion once and for all, Gabrielle had kept her condition secret.

Now, she was forced to end her silence.  They were far from the Amazon village where she had decided she would give birth to her child.   She had to begin the journey soon.  There was no time for delays.   The moment of truth had arrived.   Xena had to be told.

Gabrielle took a deep breath and squared her shoulders.  Walking around the fire, she took a seat next to her friend.  The warrior continued repairing her leathers, never looking up.  The bard’s voice strained as she forced the words.

"I need to talk to you."

Xena glanced up.  Noting the bard's serious expression, she put down her mending.  "What is it, Gabrielle?"

The young woman nervously wrung her hands in her lap.  She had practiced this conversation in her mind a thousand times.  There was no easy way to say it.  She took a shaky breath.  "I... I’m pregnant."

The statement caught Xena completely off guard.  It was the last thing she had anticipated.  She sat momentarily stunned by the news.  Her first thought was that Gabrielle would leave her.  She felt her chest tighten at the prospect and quickly fought to regain her composure. 

"I’m happy for you... I..." The emotionless tone of her voice betrayed the sentiment.  She tried to say more but the words wouldn't come.  In a desperate attempt to mask her pain, she fixed her eyes on the ground at her feet.  A muffled sob brought her attention back to her the young blonde.  

Gabrielle could not contain her sorrow.  Tears flowed freely down her cheeks.   "I...  I’m sorry to be so much trouble.  I..."

Without hesitation Xena wrapped her arms around her, encircling the bard in a protective embrace.  "Shhhh, it’s going to be okay."  Biting back her own pain, she searched for words to comfort her friend.  "I know how much you loved him, how much you must miss him, but part of Perdicus will go on through your child."

The comforting sensation of Xena’s hand stroking her hair, the scent of her skin, the soothing beat of her heart were heavenly.  In the warrior’s arms, she felt complete.  She had missed this closeness.  The idea of losing it once again, of no longer having Xena by her side, caused her to cling desperately to her friend.   She held tight, afraid to let go. 

Both women remained silent for a long while.

The warrior was the first to pull back.  As always in times of crisis, her reason took control.  "I... I need to get you home where you’ll be safe." 

With a few sensible words, Xena confirmed the young woman’s worst fears.  In spite of her sadness, Gabrielle struggled to steady her voice.  She knew only a logical argument could dissuade the warrior from taking her home.  "I want my child to be born on Amazon land."

Xena frowned slightly.  Her first concern was for Gabrielle’s welfare. She wouldn’t take chances with the bard's life.  "We are closer to Poteidaia.  It would be safer to have the child there and make the trip later when you are both stronger."

Gabrielle shook her head in firm dissent.  She had thought of little else since she had missed her first period.  There were multitudes of reasons behind her decision but first and foremost, she wanted what was best for her child. The only downside was the distance they needed to travel, but that didn’t worry her.  She was confident Xena would get her there safely.  "I... I want my child to grow up where she will be nurtured, encouraged to be strong and independent."

Of course, that wasn't the only reason.  There was another, one she could not express.  Somewhere in the back of her mind, she clung to the fragile hope that Xena might visit the Amazons occasionally, that the connection between them would not be completely severed.

"And if it’s a boy?"  Xena questioned.

"The Amazon midwives are best able to help me through the pregnancy.  If I have a son, I will find another home for us, one where we can be happy.  I only know that’s not Poteidaia.  I don’t belong there anymore.  I... I’m not sure I ever did."  She glanced up at Xena to see if her words had persuaded the warrior.   "Will you take me?"

The bard’s face was set with a resolved determination that Xena had never seen before.  Instinctively she knew that arguing would be futile.  "If that’s what you want, I’ll get you there." 

"Thanks."  The bard’s shoulders sagged with weariness.  Weeks of worry had taken their toll.

Xena nodded, avoiding her friend’s eyes. "Maybe you should get some rest."

They sat in silence.  The unspoken understanding that once Gabrielle was safe in the care of her people, Xena would leave, Hung like a ghost between them

Mending forgotten, the warrior sat quietly, trying not to think about their inevitable separation. 

The bard stood, staring off into the darkness.  Even the brightest stars were not able to penetrate the gloomy blackness of the night sky.  Sorrow tugged at her heart as she turned to face Xena, her tremulous voice breaking the silence.  "You must wish that you never met me... I..."

The anguish on her friend’s face pierced the warrior's heart.   She went to the bard’s side and lightly brushed her cheek, drawing the young woman’s timid glance. 

"Gabrielle, my happiest memories are of you... of our travels together.  Sometimes I don’t know if I could have gone on without them.  Remembering those times keeps my demons at bay.  I..." Her voice to trailed off but her eyes never wavered.   The sincerity reflected in the vivid blue was unmistakable.  The genuine affection in her words left no doubt to their truth. 

The admission surprised and moved the bard.  For the first time, Gabrielle realized that she was not the only one to benefit from their association.  Their friendship had meant more to the warrior than she realized. 

Xena continued.  "I know we’ve been through some hard times along with the good, but I wouldn’t trade them for anything... not for anything."

"I wouldn’t either.  I..." The bard’s voice quavered with conviction. It was as if Xena had pulled a dagger from her chest.  The warrior’s admission healed her wounded heart.   Their friendship had endured.  Joy and relief washed over her.

Gabrielle’s reassuring words filled Xena with emotion. She swallowed hard. "When you married Perdicus, I thought you would move on...  forget..." The sound of her own voice startled the warrior.  She had not meant to speak her feelings. 

Tears filled the young woman’s eyes as she glimpsed a vulnerability in her friend she hadn’t been aware of.  "I could never..." She squeezed the warrior's hand, encouraging Xena to meet her gaze.    "Nothing could take those memories from me.  I could never forget you." 

For an instant the warrior searched the young woman’s face.  Then abruptly, she stepped back, reining in her emotions.   "We should get some sleep.  I want to get an early start tomorrow."

Gabrielle smiled and nodded.  As she settled in her bedroll at the other side of the fire, she felt at peace.  She knew that whatever trials the future might bring, she would be all right.  Her memories of their time together would see her through.  Their friendship was still strong.

As the firelight danced across the warrior’s face, softening her features, the bard felt familiar stirrings and allowed her heart to fill with hope.  "Goodnight, Xena"

"Sleep well, Gabrielle."

The bard let her body relax.  She rested soundly for the first time in a long while.

*****

For the warrior, there was no sleep.  She sat by the fire, watching over her companion.  The past two moons she had been consumed with guilt over her own selfishness.   As Gabrielle painfully mourned the death of her husband, Xena felt only relief at his passing. 

From the moment he had come into their lives, she had resented him.  Resented that he was able to provide her friend with things she couldn't: stability, a home... children. Just the thought of Gabrielle in his arms... the thought of him touching her, made the warrior angry and jealous.  The horrible truth was that she was glad he was gone.

Xena had been struggling with her deepening feelings for the bard for some time.  Against her better judgment she had fallen hopelessly in love with the young woman.  As she watched Gabrielle marry, her heart shattered.  In those few moments, her dreams of a lifetime together were destroyed. 

Although she truly wanted her friend to be happy, in a dark corner of her heart she had felt betrayed, utterly devastated.  Looking into the fire, Xena allowed her mind to drift back to the evening of Gabrielle’s wedding...

She had ridden hard into the night, going deep into the forest before making camp.  Never in all her years had she felt so alone. She had not thought such pain possible with the absence of physical wounds. The bard was gone. The only thing she wanted in all off the world would never be hers.  The warrior was desolate.

Images of Gabrielle with Perdicus flooded her thoughts, tormenting her until she feared she would lose her sanity.  She went to her saddlebag and retrieved a small pouch.  It had been years since she had used the potent drug.  Xena hesitated only a moment before wetting her finger and dipping it into the fine orange powder.  Even on the surface of her skin she could sense its power.  Her flesh tingled as she felt the drug attempt to penetrate her body.

It promised release from her anguish and she hadn't the will to resist.  The warrior opened her mouth and took her finger inside, spreading the powder over her tongue.  Given easy entry, the drug quickly invaded her blood.  Xena fell back, letting it numb her pain.  Instantly, she felt herself rising far above her body into darkness, escaping the world below.  The black cocoon shielded her.   She felt nothing. 

In the distance, she saw a light, like that of a firefly, flickering in the distance.  As it moved closer, it continued to grow in intensity until it seemed she was staring into the face of the sun.  She closed her eyes against the overpowering brightness.  Afraid to give in, to let it engulf her, she used her hands as a shield.  But the light was everywhere.   It beckoned to her, drawing her out of herself.  She had no choice but to face it head on.  Opening her eyes, she stared into the core of it.

She gasped. 

Its beauty took her breath away.  Golden ribbons of light wavered before her.   Xena walked toward them, struggling to focus.  As she got closer she saw the outline of a figure.  It was Gabrielle, bathed in a luminous white light.  A breeze ruffled her sun-bleached hair.  Holding her arms out in offering, her voice washed over the warrior like a caress.  "I am for you...  only you." 

Xena reached for the apparition and moaned as her fingers made contact with the softness of the young woman's skin. The warrior's arms slid around her, pulling her in. Gabrielle was hers.  Light flashed like sparks as she bent to kiss her.

The bard leaned forward to meet her, tenderly offering her lips.  It was ecstasy.  Her mouth opened in a moan and Xena was inside her at once, flowing through her, seeking out the very heart of her as they merged in a burst of heat and light.

When Xena awoke from the fevered trance, she was alone... the need to be close to Gabrielle stronger than ever, as if the bard held a piece of her soul...

The very next day, through Callisto’s murderous act, the fates brought them back together. But their reunion felt strained, both women still reeling from the devastating events. 

And now... there was the pregnancy.

It was as if Perdicus was reaching from the grave to take the bard from her once again.  There would be no place for her in Gabrielle’s life when the baby was born.  What could she offer a child?  The thought of helping her friend raise the infant was nothing but an irrational dream.  The warrior's world was filled with danger: no life for a mother and child. 

Xena could no longer afford to delude herself about her importance in the bard’s life.  She had offered the young woman an escape from a boring village, a few seasons of adventure.  They were friends, nothing more.  Gabrielle would never think of her as a mate, a lover.   That place in her heart was reserved for Perdicus.

She looked again at her young friend sleeping across the fire from her.  A light breeze ruffled the loose strands of the bard's hair.  Feeling a sudden chill in the air, Xena went to her bedroll.  Picking it up, she walked quietly toward Gabrielle and tucked her blanket around her. 

In a moment of weakness, she let her fingers lightly caress the young woman's cheek, then took a seat back across the fire.  The warrior's heart swelled with love.  There was nothing she wouldn’t do for Gabrielle, including letting her go.

*****

When Gabrielle awoke Xena was gone, her bedroll missing.  Fear gripped her and she sat bolt up right.  Behind her, Argo snorted.  Instantly, her anxiety eased.  She knew the warrior had to be nearby. 

Stretching her stiff limbs, Gabrielle prepared to get up.  It was then, she noticed that she was covered with Xena’s blanket.  The act of kindness warmed her heart.  Holding the thick material close, she breathed deeply, taking in the warrior’s scent. 

The sound of footfalls broke her trance.  Looking up, she saw her friend break through the brush, fresh fish in hand.  She smiled at the familiar sight.  "Morning.  Thanks for letting me sleep."

Xena nodded.  "You needed the rest."  She held out the fish, already cleaned and filleted.  "I’ve got breakfast."

Gabrielle brightened.   "Mmm, I’m hungry!" 

Pulling their frying pan from the saddlebag, she began seasoning the fish.  Suddenly a wave of nausea washed over her and she ran for the bushes. 

Xena looked on sympathetically.  Selecting an assortment of herbs from her pack, she warmed them in water.  When Gabrielle returned, she handed her the mug of special tea.  "Have you been suffering with this long?"

Ashamed to have kept her condition secret for so long, Gabrielle looked away shyly. "No... not very."

It wounded Xena that her friend had had to suffer silently, unable to confide in her.  "The herbs should settle your stomach but we need to make sure you eat frequently.  It'll lessen the queasiness."

"Thanks."  Gabrielle smiled and slowly sipped the tea.  Gradually the nausea subsided and she felt ravenous.  In very little time, she had cleared her plate. 

The warrior motioned to the remainder of her portion.  "I can’t finish the rest of mine.  Do you want it?"  The bard nodded vigorously.

Moving with her usual efficiency, Xena began breaking down camp.  "I want to go into the next village.  We need to pick up a few things."

Gabrielle reached for their coin purse and took a quick inventory.  "Okay, but we are low on dinars.  You better let me do the bartering."

The warrior turned and flashed her a genuine smile.   "That’s a given."

*****

It was early afternoon by the time they arrived in town.  Noticing how weary the long walk had made her companion, Xena immediately headed toward the inn.  "Let’s get a room for the night."

"We can’t afford it."  The bard replied, then quickly softened her comment.  "Looks like the weather will hold.  It should be beautiful outside tonight."

It was so like her young friend, always making the best of a bad situation, never complaining.  But, the idea of Gabrielle sacrificing because they didn’t have enough money weighed heavily on Xena’s heart. For this, their last journey together, the warrior was determined that her companion be as comfortable as possible.  "We have enough.  I’ve got a few dinars set aside."

Gabrielle looked up and smiled.  "Been holding out on me, huh?"  Xena playfully lifted her brow and headed toward the inn.   She pushed open the door and glanced around for signs of trouble.  It looked quiet.  "Why don’t you see what kind of deal you can get on the room while I get Argo settled."

"Okay, I’ll catch up with you afterward."

Xena’s eyes followed her companion as she stepped up to speak with the owner.  She smiled as she watched the bard’s demeanor change.  There was an air of authority in her body language that showed she meant business.  Gone were the all traces of the naive farm girl.  She was completely confident and professional.   Over the course of their travels together, Gabrielle had refined her bartering skills to a fine art.  It was fortunate, because Xena lacked good judgment when it came to money.  In her warlord days she had spent lavishly, rarely giving it a thought.  Now reformed, she found it repugnant to deal with and had a tendency to spend twice what her friend would have paid just to avoid haggling.   Much to the warrior's relief the bard had come to understand this early on and shouldered the responsibility of their finances. 

That was pretty much the way their relationship worked, the young woman instinctively took up the slack in areas her friend was weak or unwilling and vice versa.  They complimented each other perfectly.

*****

As Gabrielle entered the stable, Xena quickly tucked an object into the cleavage of her leathers and turned to face her.

"I got the room and arranged to tell some stories.  We should be able to pick up a few extra dinars."

The warrior noted the lack of enthusiasm in the young woman’s voice.  Usually just the thought of performing made the bard giddy with excitement.  This change concerned her.   It was so unlike her friend.  "You look tired.  Why don’t you lay down for awhile?"

As much as she hated to be a burden, she hadn't the energy to argue.  She was truly exhausted.  "It would be nice to take a short nap.  Would you mind?"

"Of course not.  You need the sleep." 

"Are you going to hang around, check out the town?"  The young woman tried to mask her anxiety.  She had a tendency to worry when they were apart, when she didn’t know where Xena was.

Noting the bard's tense expression, the warrior tried to lighten her mood.  "Sure, someone has to give the merchants fair warning.  They won’t know what hit them once you start wheeling and dealing." 

Recognizing her companion’s attempt to cheer her, Gabrielle smiled. 

"I’ll come wake you in a while to go shopping," the warrior promised.

"Okay.  Don’t get into any trouble while I'm sleeping."

"Me?"  Xena exclaimed, feigning innocence.  She smiled and winked mischievously.  "Get some rest.  I promise I’ll be good." 

A pang of affection coursed through the bard.  She loved the rare glimpses of Xena’s playful side.  It was a part of the warrior, Xena reserved solely for her.  Reluctantly, she turned away and started toward the inn

Xena watched her walk away.  Once Gabrielle was safely through the door, she headed toward the marketplace.

*****

The warrior chose the most lucrative shop to make the exchange.  They dealt in jewelry as well as general goods.  Before entering, she pulled the medallion from her leathers and lovingly ran her fingers over it.  Other than her weapons, it was the only possession she valued.  

The medallion had been Lyceus’ most prized possession.  It had belonged to their father.  While it had held no sentimental value for she or Toris, it had meant the world to her younger brother.  He had taken great pride in wearing it.  The medallion was his singular link to a father he had never really known. 

After Lyceus’ death, the keepsake had taken on new importance to Xena.  It was her one physical connection to the brother she loved dearly. 

Resolute in her decision, she stepped through the door and handed it to the merchant.   "How much will you give me for this?" 

He carefully appraised the medallion, then her, quickly deciding it was in his best interest to deal with her honestly.    "This is a nice piece. I’m sure I can get a good price for it at the festival in the fall, but I’m afraid I can’t give you what it’s worth in cash, at least not now."

"How much can you give me?"

"500 dinars."  She looked at him doubtfully.  "It’s worth at least twice that."

"I agree, but I won’t be able to sell this to just anyone.  I’ll have to wait for the festival.  Can’t short myself on cash."

Her options limited, Xena reluctantly agreed to his terms with a few conditions.  "Okay, 500 dinars and I’ll need to borrow a mule for a few moons.  The rest I’ll take in goods." 

The merchant thought about dickering her down, but decided not to risk it.  He knew he had a good deal.   "All right, that sounds fair."  He went in the back room and returned with a bag of dinars.

"A friend will be in to pick out the supplies."  Handing him the medallion, she met his glance.  The coldness in her eyes forced him back a step.  "I trust you will treat her fairly."

"Of course."  He stammered.

"I’d rather you didn’t mention anything about our exchange." 

He nodded and slipped the medallion over his head.   Lifting the neck of his tunic, he dropped it inside, patting it gently.  "Our secret."

She stiffened at the idea of her brother's medallion around the stranger’s neck.  Pushing the thought out of her mind, she left.

*****

After quickly surveying the town, Xena went back to the inn and quietly entered their room.  Gabrielle was sound asleep.  Taking a seat in the chair next to the bed, she quietly watched her young companion. 

There was a purity... an innocence to Gabrielle that beckoned to her.  She was everything Xena was not. The bard had taken the hardened warrior into her heart and given her something no one else could: her unconditional faith and loyalty.  With Gabrielle, her slate was clean. 

Whether or not she deserved it, her friend believed in her.   It gave her hope.  Hope that she could rise above her past.  The faith Gabrielle had shown in her gave her the strength to go on.  Xena trusted her... loved her, like no other.

Early on in their friendship, Xena had tried to convince herself that her desire to be near Gabrielle stemmed from a need to protect her, keep her safe.  But in her heart she had known the truth.  Although she would lay down her life in a heartbeat to protect the bard, her feelings ran deeper than friendship, much deeper, and had for a long time.   She wanted Gabrielle, in every sense of the word.  No other person in her life instilled such longing.  

On many occasions in the quiet of the night, she fantasized about Gabrielle making love to her. The tenderness Xena imagined the bard bringing to her love making incited her passion beyond reason.  

There was a subtle sensuality to the bard simmering just below the surface.  Xena couldn't help wondering what it would be like to release it... to feel the heat of the young woman's desire.  She squeezed her eyes shut to dispel the image. 

If only things had turned out differently.  When Perdicus had first arrived, she had fleetingly considered seducing Gabrielle away from him.  But it had only been a fantasy.  In the end, she had done what she thought was best for her friend; she let her go.  

Now, Xena wondered if it had been for the best.  Could she somehow have saved Gabrielle from the pain she suffered?  She would never know.  Soon their travels together would be coming to an end.  She would lose her.  The very thought filled the warrior with the kind of dread that even the worst of her enemies couldn’t instill. 

She bit back her sorrow and looked down at her slumbering friend.  There was no evidence of the trials of the past few moons, no tension in her face.  Gabrielle was completely relaxed, no trace of worry or care...  the kind of sleep reserved for only the truly innocent.   She watched the young woman's chest rise and fall in rhythmic waves.  

In a moment of weakness, Xena knelt beside the bed and lightly smoothed a wisp of hair from the bard’s forehead.   She stirred slightly.  An almost inaudible sigh escaped her lips, causing them to part slightly.  The sight took the warrior’s breath away.  Xena longed to feel their softness, brush lightly against them.  What harm could it do... one kiss?  Gabrielle would never know.

She bent forward, within reach of what she desired above all else.  Her heart raced as temptation flooded through her.  She squeezed her eyes shut.  She couldn’t do it.  Gabrielle’s heart belonged to another.  The warrior stood, backing up so quickly that she crashed into the chair next to the bed.  Thrown off balance, she fell to her knees as the chair clattered to the floor. 

Gabrielle’s eyes fluttered open as she looked anxiously around the room.  "Xena?"

The dark-haired woman answered nervously.  "I’m sorry... I... I tripped... the chair fell... I..."

Wiping the sleep from her eyes, the bard sat up.  "You tripped?"  She looked at the warrior in disbelief.  "Are you hurt?  Is everything okay?"

"I’m fine."  Xena said, quickly righting the chair.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Have you been drinking?"

"No, I tripped, that’s all," she repeated, agitation evident in her voice.

The young woman raised her hands to acquiesce.  "Okay, it’s just... I didn’t think you ever lost your footing."

"I’m flesh and blood just like you, Gabrielle." No truer words were ever spoken.  She felt her heated blood coursing though her veins as she spoke.  "I... I make mistakes too."  She shivered as she thought how close she had come.

The bard patted the space next to her.  "Come sit on the bed."

Xena took a step backward.   Gabrielle looked at her curiously, then pointed to the warrior’s leg.  "You skinned your knee.  I just want to take a look at it."

Glancing down at her scuffed knee, she shrugged it off.  "It’s nothing.  I’m fine."

The bard took a cloth and dipped it in the bowl of water on the bedside table.  She smiled playfully at her companion.  "I know it’s not the most serious injury you’ve ever had, but humor me.  Come here."

The warrior sat down awkwardly and watched as her friend carefully dabbed the blood from the abrasion.  "Gabrielle, this is silly," she replied, still feeling embarrassed by the incident.

"I like taking care of you.  Indulge me."  Xena looked up shyly.  The bard’s expression was so soft and full of tenderness that she hadn’t the will to decline.  Secretly, she loved it when her friend pampered her. 

"Look, there’s a sliver."  Gabrielle glanced at the warrior, her expression grave.  "This is more serious than I thought."  She fought to keep a smile from her face.  "It has to come out.  I’ll have to borrow your breast dagger. 

Xena rolled her eyes and began to stand.  The young woman grabbed her arm and pulled her back. 

"Okay, no knife, but you’ll have to be very brave.  This could be quite painful."  A mischievous smile spread across her face.  "Now brace yourself."  Carefully, she caught the tip between two blunt fingernails and gently removed it.  "There.  That wasn’t so bad, was it?"

The warrior glared at her, making Gabrielle laugh.   "How did you manage to trip over the chair, aay?"

Xena shook her head in frustration. "It was just an accident.  Enough about the tripping already."

"Okay, okay.  So did you get a chance to check out the town while I was asleep?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact."  Her mood brightened, grateful for the change of subject.  "One of the merchants here owes me money.  He’s going to trade us for the goods we need."

"That’s great!  How much?"

"Enough," she replied carefully, not wanting to arouse the young woman’s irrepressible curiosity.

"How much is enough?"  Gabrielle questioned.

"500 dinars."

"500 dinars, wow!"

"If your bartering skills are up to snuff, there should be more than enough to purchase what we need."

An excited smile lit the young woman’s face.  "This is going to be fun."

"Yeah, well hurry up and get your boots on so we can go."

"We?  You’re going shopping with me?"

Normally the warrior hated to shop but Gabrielle was accustomed to being frugal and she wanted to make sure her friend purchased enough supplies to make the journey comfortable.  Xena shrugged.  "Why should you have all the fun?"

The young woman beamed and quickly tugged her boots on.  "Come on, let’s go."

*****

As they entered the large shop, the merchant came over to greet them.  He smiled at Xena.  "Hello again."

The warrior nodded and motioned to her companion.   "She’ll be selecting the supplies we need."

The blonde spoke up cheerfully.  "Xena, aren’t you going to introduce me to your friend?"

The warrior looked blankly at the merchant, who fortunately, didn’t miss a beat.  He offered his hand to the young woman.  "Herodites.  And you are?"

The bard smiled warmly and took his hand.  "Gabrielle."

"Ah, Gabrielle. Xena mentioned you earlier."  He winked at the warrior, who turned away, pretending to browse.

Soon the bard was in full form, gathering all the supplies she thought they would need for the long journey.  Xena added numerous frivolous items to her stack.   Surprised by her friend’s extravagance, the young woman glanced at her questioningly.  The warrior merely shrugged.  Spotting a small pillow on the shelf, she tossed it on the pile.

Xena spoke directly to the merchant.  "We’re going to need more vegetables, and dried fruit too."   He nodded and went to get them. 

The growing pile made Gabrielle uneasy.    "We've got a lot of stuff here.  Are you sure..."

"Pick out an extra warm blanket and a few loose-fitting tunics," Xena interrupted, ignoring her comment.   She looked the bard up and down carefully appraising the condition of the young woman's clothing.  "How are your boots, any holes?"

"They’re fine."  The bard shifted uncomfortably.   "I know you like to travel light.  I don’t need all of these things.  I can get by with what I have."

"It’s a long trip and you’ll be..." Understanding that Gabrielle would have little concern for her own comfort, Xena gave up trying to convince her.  Instead, she took a firm stance.   "These things are important."

"How is Argo going to carry everything?"

"She won’t have to carry it all.  We’re going to borrow Herodites’ mule.  Besides, it won’t hurt Argo to carry a little extra this one time.  I’ll be walking."  She turned toward the door ending further discussion.  "I’ll be right back.  I need to see the blacksmith."

As the door slammed closed noisily Herodites looked at Gabrielle and shrugged.  "Not very social is she?"

The bard smiled.  "Where did you and Xena meet?"

"Right here in my store."

Gabrielle gave him a puzzled glance.  "How long have you known each other?"

The merchant hedged, not knowing how to answer.  "Hmm, it’s hard to remember."  The young woman let his remark pass as she busily sorted through the stacks of tunics.  He took a relieved breath.

"Are these all the tunics you have?" 

"No, there are more on the bottom shelf over here."  He bent to retrieve them, setting the pile on the table for her to go through. 

Gabrielle was about to reach for one when something shiny caught her eye.  She stared in disbelief at the medallion hanging from his neck. 

"Where did you get that?" she demanded, pointing accusingly.

The merchant faltered in his reply.  "This... well... it’s been in my family for a long time."

It was a pathetic lie.  Gabrielle knew immediately that it belonged to Xena’s brother.  "She gave it to you for these supplies, didn’t she?"

"Look, she didn’t want you to know.  Instructed me not to say anything."

Gabrielle leaned against the table.  It was as if someone had knocked the wind out of her.  "I can’t believe she did this."  Her voice choked with emotion, came out in a hoarse whisper.

"You aren’t going to tell her that I told, are you?"

She ignored his question.  "Listen, I can’t accept these things.  You’ll have to give the medallion back."

"Bbbbut, she’ll know I told you.   I... I gave her a fair price for it, really.   Please, won’t you reconsider?   She’s not the type of person I want angry at me."

The store door rattled as Xena entered.  The merchant quickly dropped the medallion back in his shirt.  Gabrielle took a deep breath and turned to face her friend.

The warrior quickly sorted through the items the young woman had selected and gently squeezed her arm.  "Great job.  Have you picked out new tunics yet?"

The bard could barely find her voice.  "No, I..."

"Hmmm, let’s see."  The dark-haired woman ruffled through the pile of clothing. She draped a dark green shift over her friend’s shoulder.  "This is nice.  It’s a good color for you.  She held up a rust colored tunic in the same fashion.   "This one too.  What do you think?"

"Xena, It’s good of you to get these for me but I..."

The warrior's features softened as she spoke.  "Gabrielle, I like taking care of you too."  The affection in her voice sent a wave of warmth through the bard.   Her sentiment was so genuine that the young woman knew it came from her heart.  The warrior pressed her.  "So what do you think?"

There was no graceful way to refuse her friend’s generosity.  She would have to make it right later.  The bard struggled to hold back the powerful emotions swelling within her and returned her friend’s fond glance.  "They’re beautiful...  Xena... this really means a lot to..."  

Hesitant to allow the moment to become more than she could handle the warrior interrupted her.  "Then, we’re set.  Let’s get some dinner."

*****

As the pregnancy progressed, they spent less and less time on the road, stopping for longer periods.  Gabrielle was beginning to change physically.  Her breasts appeared fuller and her belly was visibly swollen. 

Xena was alarmed to find that these changes made the young woman even more alluring to her.  There was a sensual glow about the bard that she found utterly distracting.

Although she tried to keep herself occupied.  The warrior’s attention was continually drawn to her companion.  It was the subtle changes that fascinated her most, small things really.  Gabrielle’s hair had a high sheen to it.   Her cheeks were rosier.  She moved differently.  Everyday Xena found her more beautiful than the day before.

Gabrielle was going through emotional changes too, occasionally experiencing mood swings.  One moment she would be almost giddy with happiness then later Xena would find her crying tearfully over a wilted flower she saw along the road. 

None of it bothered Xena.  It was really only an amplification of the bard’s personality not exactly a change.  She humored her friend the best she could until the situation passed.  This tactic usually worked... but not always.

As Gabrielle returned to the road after yet another trip to the bushes, Xena took note of the sweat on her brow. The heat had obviously taken its toll on the bard.  "The sun’s pretty hot today.  You better drink some more water." 

The young woman turned and gave her a dangerous look.  "I’m not drinking any more water.  I can hardly make it a candlemark without having to pee as it is.  I’ve had enough."  

"It’s important to replace the fluids you’re losing."  Xena reasoned.

"Forget it!"  The bard snapped.    "I don’t see you drinking water."  Her jaw tightened as she spoke.  "I’ve gone three or four times already today and you haven’t been once.  You drink the water!"

The outburst startled the warrior.  She searched for the right words to soothe her.  "I’m sorry Gabrielle, I know you’re uncomfortable..."

"Uncomfortable isn't the word.  Try miserable.   I’m hot and tired and achy and fat... and I swear if I have to make another stop to pee, I’m not getting up again."

Xena’s lips pursed in an attempt to hold back a smile.  Even irritated, the bard was adorable.  "Maybe we should stop here and make camp then."

The bard released a heavy sigh and looked sheepishly at her friend.  "Xena, I’m sorry.  I don’t know what’s wrong with me.  You’ve been so patient.  I can go a little farther if you want."

"Nah, you’re right.   It’s too hot and this is a good place to stop.  I think there’s a stream just through the trees over there."

Gabrielle’s face lit up.  "Really?" 

"Yeah, wait here while I check." 

The young woman sat on a stump by the road and rested.

A few minutes later Xena appeared.  "Just like I thought, there’s a nice cool stream just across the way." 

Gabrielle stood newly invigorated by the news.  The warrior surprised her by sweeping her up in her arms. 

"I’m going to carry you."

"You don’t have to.  I can walk."   The bard stammered.

"I know, but there are a lot of downed limbs and I don’t want you to trip."  Slowly, she made her way toward the stream with her precious bundle. 

The young woman relaxed and laid her head on the warrior’s shoulder.  She could feel the muscles flex beneath her cheek as Xena effortlessly lifted and turned her to make her way through the trees.   Closing her eyes, she let her mind wander.  She could smell Xena’s leathers.  Their scent, rugged and alluring, like the warrior seemed amplified by the heat of her body.  Before she knew it, she was lost in a fantasy...

The warrior had swept her off her feet and was carrying her to their room.  With each step Xena’s sensual whisper, like a caress, spoke of what she planned to do to her.  Gabrielle’s abdomen fluttered as her excitement grew.

"Do you know how long I can keep you on the edge of release?"  The young woman swallowed hard unable to respond.

Xena’s eyes sparkled with mischief.  "As long as I want."  She smiled and pulled the bard closer, her lips lightly grazing her cheek.  Gabrielle could feel the heat of her the warrior's breath against her ear as she added... "As long as you want."  Stopping at the top of the stairs, her gaze scorched the bard with its intensity.  "You have such a sexy voice.   I want to hear you moan with pleasure..."

"Yeees."  The bard whispered aloud, lost in her erotic haze.

"Gabrielle?"  The young woman opened her eyes, slowly emerging from her fantasy.

"You kinda dozed there."  Xena said, afraid the heat had gotten to her companion.

The bard felt a flush rise to the surface of her skin.  "Err yeah, I guess so."

The warrior set her down beside the stream. 

Gabrielle looked around in awe.  "It’s beautiful here."

"Yeah, not bad," the warrior agreed.  "We got lucky.  The water looks deep enough for a bath." 

"This is great!"  The blonde was nearly ecstatic.  Xena smiled, relieved to have at last done something to make her friend happy. 

"Go ahead."  She nodded.   "I’ll set up camp while you wash up."   The bard flashed her an exuberant grin before hurrying toward the stream.   She undressed quickly and waded carefully into the water.  It was marvelously refreshing.  A groan of pleasure escaped her lips as she lowered herself in.

The warrior attempted to busy herself brushing Argo, but occasionally, unable to resist the temptation, she risked a glance at her friend.  The young woman was positively radiant.  This was the first time the warrior had seen her naked since she'd become pregnant.  Her breasts were larger, the nipples darker than she remembered and even from where Xena stood she could see they were erect.

Catching the warrior looking her way, Gabrielle called to her.  "Would you wash my back?"

Unable to think of an excuse to refuse, she nodded, swallowing hard.  Hesitantly, she undressed and waded into the water, settling behind her friend.  Slowly twirling the soap in her hands, she worked up a generous lather.  

In total disregard to the cool water surrounding it, she felt her body temperature rise.   The bard's nearness was maddening.  Her nipples, only inches from the soft skin of Gabrielle’s back, stiffened with excitement.  The heat of the young woman’s skin was dizzying as she ran her soapy hands over its surface.  A pleasant tingling sensation radiated through her abdomen.  She forgot herself and let her hands run lazily down the young woman's sides. 

The bard gasped. 

Xena pulled back quickly and began to apologize but the excitement in Gabrielle’s tone stopped her. 

"The baby... I... I felt it...  it moved."  Without a thought, she reached for the warrior's hand and placed it on her stomach.  The baby kicked again. 

Xena felt it press against her fingers.  She was speechless. 

Gabrielle turned to face her.   The look of complete wonder on the warrior’s face surprised her.  She smiled.  "Isn’t it incredible?"

Xena nodded, unable to form words to describe what she was feeling.  Until now, the pregnancy had seemed abstract.  Suddenly, it was very real and nothing short of miraculous.   Gabrielle had a life growing inside her. 

"I’m going to be a mother."  Tears of joy filled the young woman's eyes.

"Oh, Gabrielle."  Overcome with emotion, the warrior pulled her friend into a warm embrace.  The bard laughed lightly.  She had never felt so alive. 

Xena kissed her softly on the cheek.    "Come on, we’d better get you out of this water before you catch a chill."  Picking her up with the greatest care, she set her down on her bedroll. 

The bard loving reached for her hand.  "You're spoiling me."

"It's the least I can do," the dark-haired woman replied.  She glanced down shyly, trying hard not to think about the fact that they were both naked.  Gently freeing her hand she reached for a linen and briskly toweled the bard's hair dry. 

Taking great precautions to Avoid Gabrielle's eyes, she focused on the young woman's shoulder where a droplet of water rested.  As the blonde shifted, the drop slowly descended.  Unable to resist, her blue eyes carefully traced it's path as it made its way past Gabrielle's collarbone, continuing down her chest and over the gentle slope of her breast, finally coming to rest at the tip of her nipple. Utterly entranced, the warrior wet her lips with the tip of her tongue.

Gabrielle spoke up nervously.  "Xena... do you think I’m attractive?"

The question caught her off guard.  Certain her desire was etched clearly on her face, her eyes darted anxiously about, looking everywhere except at her friend.  "I... ah..."

The bard pressed on.  "It’s just... I... I was wondering about.... Well...  how the baby would look...  I mean Perdicus was the only man that really showed an interest in me... and..."

Xena exhaled a relieved breath.  "You have nothing to worry about," she replied sincerely.

The young woman smiled and curled up next to the fire.  "I just want this baby to get the best of what I have to give."

Xena hesitated a moment, then spoke.  "For what it’s worth...  I think you're beautiful.  This baby is very lucky to have you for a mother." A brief twinge of jealously coupled with sadness passed through the warrior. The baby would be able to stay with Gabrielle while she would have to go.  "Very lucky..." she added in a quiet voice.

The young woman felt a warm flush in her cheeks that had nothing to do with the fire.  "Thanks Xena."

"Yeah, now try to get in a nap.  I’ll going to make one last sweep of the perimeter before we settle in for the night."

*****

The movement of the baby was a turning point for Gabrielle.  From then on, she began to look at her situation in a more positive light; convinced only good could come from her pregnancy.   The young mother-to-be was sure of one thing: she was willing to endure anything and everything to bring her baby into the world.

Although the bard rarely complained, Xena usually sensed when her friend had traveled enough for the day.  Unfortunately, this time, the warrior had misjudged the bard’s stamina.  Overcome by a dizzy spell, Gabrielle nearly stumbled.  Beside herself with concern, Xena insisted they call it a day.  She quickly found a place off the road for them to camp. 

The young woman settled on a large rock while the warrior retrieved their water bag.   As she took a long swallow, Xena looked her over anxiously.  Untying the laces of her friend's boots, she slid them off.  The bard's ankles were very swollen.  "Oh, Gabrielle.  I'm so sorry."  She shook her head in frustration, clearly angry with herself.   "We should have stopped a candlemark ago.  You’ve been on your feet too long."

"It's okay... really."  The young woman spoke softly, trying to reassure her friend. 

Xena quickly laid out her bedroll.  "Here, let's get you more comfortable.  Lay on your side."  Gently easing her down onto the blanket, Xena propped up her feet with a pillow.  "There.  That should help."

Gabrielle looked up gratefully.   "Thanks, that's better."

"You look a little pale.  Are you sure you're all right?"

"I'm fine, just a little headache is all." 

After retrieving a few items from Argo's saddlebags, Xena dampened a cloth with cool water and poured some sweet smelling liquid onto it.  Carefully, she knelt beside the young woman and placed the cool compress on her forehead.  "Just close your eyes and try to relax."

"Mmmm, that smells nice.  What is it?"

"Oil of lavender.  It should help your headache."  She pulled Gabrielle's feet onto her lap and gently massaged them. 

The bard groaned as her tension faded.  "Xena, you don't have to..." 

The warrior interrupted her with a soft whisper.  "Shhh, try to rest." 

In no time Gabrielle drifted to sleep. 

Xena continued rubbing her feet and calves. The blonde's skin was smooth as silk, incredibly soft.  Her hands tingled as she kneaded the tender flesh. These were the moments she cherished.  Times she could gaze upon the bard without having to worry about revealing her true feelings. It was wonderful to let down her guard and look openly at the young woman. The warrior's heart filled with love at the mere sight of her.  It was with great reluctance that she tore herself away to prepare dinner.

It was the smell of stew that finally urged the bard from sleep.  When she opened her eyes, she saw Xena stirring a large pot.  The warrior, unaware of her audience, sampled it with a thoughtful frown and carefully added some herbs.  The uncharacteristic sight warmed the bard's heart.  Cooking was not one of her companion's many skills.

Out of the corner of her eye, Xena saw the young woman stretch and glanced up.  Her friend was smiling cheerfully.  "It smells wonderful."

The warrior brought a bowl of the hearty stew over to her.  "I’m afraid it doesn’t compare to yours."

Gabrielle tasted a large spoonful.   "Mmm, it’s very good." 

Xena cast her a doubtful look.

"Really," the bard insisted.  "Haven’t you ever noticed that food almost always tastes better when someone else does the cooking?" 

"Well, in my case, that’s almost always true."

The young woman grinned.  "Ah come on, you’re not that bad."

Xena smiled.  "Lucky for me you've never been a picky eater." 

After finishing her dinner Gabrielle excused herself, making a trip to the bushes.  The warrior busied herself cleaning the dishes and let her mind flash to images of her beautiful companion.  She was so lost in her thoughts that she lost track of how long her friend had been gone.

Hearing the rustle of branches, the dark-haired woman looked up.  Two lone bandits broke through the brush.  One had his arm wrapped around Gabrielle’s neck.  The second stood at her side holding a dagger. 

Xena drew her sword and twirled it menacingly.  "Let her go or I’ll kill you both."

The armed man merely smiled and pressed his dagger against the Gabrielle’s belly. 

Xena went white. 

"I think I’m willing to take that chance," he threatened, glaring back at her.  "Seems that we’re holding all the cards."  He slowly ran the dagger the length of the bard’s stomach.  "Now, throw that sword over here, before I lose my patience."

She tossed her sword beside him without hesitation.  Gabrielle looked up in surprise.  As she met the warrior’s eyes she saw I glimpse of something that she had never seen there before... fear.

"That’s a good girl.   Now throw those saddlebags this way so I can have a look."  Xena did as he asked, her eyes never straying from the dagger in his hand.  As he leaned with his free hand to pick them up, Gabrielle saw her opportunity.  Her right arm swung upward pushing the dagger away from her body while her left elbow came back hard into the stomach of the man holding her.  He doubled over in pain. 

Xena sprang into action, hurling her breast dagger into the chest of the armed man.  It killed him instantly.  Without hesitation, she rushed the remaining bandit.   In one swift motion, she wrapped her arm around his throat and snapped his neck.  He dropped silently to the ground. 

Hands trembling violently, Xena scanned the bard for signs of injury.  Miraculously, she was unharmed. 

Seeing how shaken the warrior was, the bard took a tentative step toward her.  "Are you okay?"

Xena nodded weakly and ran into the woods.  Under cover of the thick foliage she vomited.  Wiping carelessly at her mouth, she sat back on her heels, her entire body shaking.  Gabrielle and her child could easily have been killed.  Because she had frozen, two pathetic bandits had endangered what she held most dear.  She had lost her edge.  The threat to her companion’s life had clouded her judgment.  If the bard had not taken action...  Her stomach lurched once again at the thought.   She felt truly vulnerable for the first time in her life. 

Gabrielle watched from a distance before slowly approaching.  She gently laid a calming hand on the warrior’s shoulder, her eyes full of concern.  "Are you all right?"  She slowly lowered herself to her knees beside Xena.

The warrior took a shaky breath.  "I’m sorry.  I don’t know what happened.  I... froze."  The bard had never seen her companion so unnerved.

"Xena, I knew you’d come through.  All you needed was an opening."  The warrior looked at her helplessly, needing to believe her words.

Gabrielle continued.  "It doesn’t all have to fall on your shoulders.  You can count on me for help sometimes." She smiled, trying to reassure her companion.  "Together, we make a pretty good team." 

Xena nodded.   It was one truth she couldn’t deny.

***** 

As they got closer to Amazon territory, the warrior noticed Gabrielle had become uncharacteristically quiet.   She was friendly and responded when Xena engaged her in conversation but rarely spoke unless spoken to.

Perdicus’ death had been hard on her.  If only Gabrielle could write again the warrior felt sure the young woman would begin to feel better about herself.  She was a natural storyteller.  It was in her blood.  Xena just needed to find a way to bring her back to it.

After they had finished dinner, Gabrielle sat quietly staring into the flames of the fire.  Xena got up and settled beside her.