ForevaXena's FanFic . . .

Alex
(Sequel to Certain Skills)

by Sarah Miller

Violence: None

Subtext: Yes

Sex: None

This story is a sequel to Certain Skills and takes place three years later.

<*> <*> <*>

All the while you were in front of me
I never realized
I just can't believe I didn't see it in your eyes
I didn't see it
I can't believe it
Oh but I feel it

-Marc Anthony-

<*> <*> <*>
"For the last time, Ephiny, no." Gabrielle took a seat next to the Amazon and shook her head. "No."

"Just stop and thi...."

Gabrielle placed a hand over Ephiny's arm. "Honestly, do you think I would want to stay here while there are tons of things to do out there."

"But it might be different..."

"Without her, yes I know."

"Stop finishing my sentences."

"Stop being so damn predictable then."

Ephiny laughed and turned away. "Am I that bad?"

Gabrielle groaned.

"I'll take that as a yes." She watched Gabrielle stand up. "Where are you going?"

"For a walk." She smiled and was gone.

Her walk turned up short as she stopped just out of town at a small stream. Looking over a few rocks, down the hill, she could see that the stream led into the big lake. She sighed as she laid down on her back and looked up at the cloudless sky, her eyes closing.

"When I'm gone I don't want you to feel any guilt. A lot has happened to us over the past year and there were times when we were both very confused. But, I want you to know that I still think you are the best thing that has ever happened to me. You gave my life meaning and joy. You will be a part of me forever."

Gabrielle felt the pain wash over her as she opened her eyes. It had been so long since she had even thought of Xena and what they had.

Sitting up, she turned her head at a sound and smiled as a small deer came jumped through the bushes. When it saw her it stopped and looked at her, as if studying her. She moved to get closer but it jumped back into the trees.

"Interesting." She laid back down and watched the new clouds move across the sky, slowly. Her eyes drew close as if by themselves.

"I'm sorry for all the times I didn't treat you right."

 "Xena, you brought out the best in me. Before I met you, no one saw me for who I was. I felt invisible. But, you saw all the things that I could be. You saved me, Xena."

So long ago but yet the love she felt for Xena existed even then. At first it may have been just respect of her skills, the way she handled herself, or the fact that with her there would be an adventure. She sighed. 'Never know what to do or think anymore.' Her eyes closed once more.

Thunder off in the distance sprang her from her sleep. She sat up quickly and looked around, taking a moment to figure out where she was.

It took only a moment for her to stand up, when she heard footsteps coming towards her. Turning, she could see Ephiny running towards her.

"Where did you go? You were gone two hours."

"I needed to get away." She brushed past her. "I can take care of myself."

<*> <*> <*>
"Queen!!"

Gabrielle turned to see a woman running into her hut. "What now?"

"Problems. Ephiny wants to speak with you."

"Figures. Not a moments peace." She turned to the woman. "See why I want to leave?"

The woman looked on confused.

"Never mind." She walked out.

Ephiny sat down just as Gabrielle walked in. "Gabr...."

"Do you insist on bothering me about every little detail?"

"No but..."

"Then stop calling me. I'm sure you can handle everything that needs to be taken care of. Right?"

"No, actually."

"Then what now?" She slumped down in a chair and rested her head down on a hand, elbow propped up. "Shoot."

"The Amazons from the north are traveling down this way for a celebration."

"What celebration?"

"You usually skip this time of year to come here and so you wouldn't know of it..."

"Just get to the point."

"Tribute to Artemis."

"And? What does it involve? For some reason I'm sure I won't be liking this." She edged closer on her chair.

Ephiny fidgeted. "Sacrifice, traditional ways of doing things, lots of ceremony. Don't worry, we can walk you through it all."

"What is this tribe like?"

"Meaning?"

"Am I going to have to fight someone?"

Ephiny stood. "Oh no..." She walked forward. "Just challenge their champion. I'm sure you can win. You..."

"What?"

Ephiny stepped back.

"What challenge? What do I have to do?" She stood and walked toward a retreating Ephiny. "HALT!"

Ephiny turned. "It'll be easy."

"Should I just leave now?"

Ephiny shook her head. "Won't be any use. They know you are here and they are already on their way anyhow."

Gabrielle sat back down. "It would be a lot easier if I had to deal with this when...." She laid her head back and closed her eyes. "Will anything that we are doing....is there any danger in anything?"

"There is danger in everything."

"Ephiny, just answer me."

"No." She smiled. "No danger. Lots of.....other things, but no danger." She turned to walk out again.

"Wait, what other things?"

Ephiny sighed. "I'm not going anywhere am I?"

"You made me come here. Now talk."

Ephiny sat down and took a long breath. "They will be here in a month. In that time, we have to show you what you need to know."

"And that is?"

"As queen, you will almost always be in each part of the ceremonies."

"How many are there?"

"Six, I think."

"You think. What, you don't know?"

"I do, I do." She took a minute to think. "Okay, there is the sacrificial, dance, feast, party itself, new amazons, and the big one, the fight."

"What is involved in the sacrificial part? What has to die?"

"Just a pig. We stand underneath the next full moon, and kill the pig. That will give us blessings from Artemis."

"How do you know that she is even watching at that time?"

Ephiny raised a brow and smiled. "We do."

Gabrielle rubbed her forehead. "What else?"

"We will have a dance. Synchronized and well planned. You will be in the front."

"I have to dance."

"Yes."

"What else?"

"A great feast. A joining celebration for the new amazons, and the fight."

"Who do I have to fight again?"

"Their champion."

"How can I do that?"

Ephiny shook her head. "You could take champion." She saw Gabrielle raise her head quickly. "Or not. Its not a fight to the death, just a match........for power and strength."

"Then when all that is done, am I free to hide?"

"Yes."

Gabrielle stood. "How many amazons are we welcoming in this tribe?"

"Three."

"Names?"

"Don't know yet."

Gabrielle walked down the steps. "Anything else I need to know?"

"That's it."

"Good." She walked out.

<*> <*> <*>
"You know, where I'm headed they'll be trouble."
 
"I know."
 
"Then why would you want to go into that with me?"
 
"That's what friends do, they stand by each other when there's trouble."
 
"all right ... friend."

Gabrielle sat up from her bed and looked around the room. It was a little before dawn, according to the light hue of the purple sky. She pulled herself out of bed, ran a hand through her hair, and walked to a chair to sit down. An object caught her eye and as she turned to it, a feeling of sadness washed over her. She reached and grabbed the round blade, holding it delicately in her hands as she twirled it around. The golden metal gleamed in the candle light. She ran a finger over the crazy designs and then put it down on the table.

Taking a deep sigh, she stood and prepared for the day.

Ephiny met her as she emerged from her hut.

"What is it?"

Ephiny eyed her confused. "What?"

Gabrielle shrugged. "Usually you come to me so that I can do something. Something I need to do?"

"No."

She nodded. "Good, then I'll be back later." She walked away.

<*> <*> <*>
The cool water felt refreshing on her skin as she lay back on the water. She let her eyes close, absorbing all that was around her. Picking up things with her ears instead of her eyes, just as she was taught.

As she was drifting off, a presence alerted her. Her eyes popped open immediately and she turned towards the shore, to see a woman standing there.

The woman was tall, with long blond hair, but from the distance, Gabrielle couldn't tell what color her eyes were. She looked down to see the woman was wearing a short skirt, slit on one side, with a black leather halter top. She sighed and headed towards her.

The woman saw her move and took a step back, knowing full well who this was and wanting to give her all the room she needed. When she saw Gabrielle exit the water, she turned out of respect and waited till the woman cleared her throat. Turning back she smiled.

"Who are you?"

"Alex."

"One of the new amazons?"

She nodded.

"How many are there?"

"Quite a few."

"How many new recruits?"

"Five."

Gabrielle walked forward. "I guess you know who I am."

Alex tilted her head. "How do you know that?"

She smiled. "Come on, I'll walk you back."

<*> <*> <*>
Ephiny looked up just in time to see Gabrielle and Alex walking towards her. "Well, its about time you showed up. They are here."

Gabrielle looked around at the women. There were about two dozen of them, if not more. "Where will they all stay?"

Alex turned to her. "We will make our own places. Don't worry." She walked away.

Ephiny walked to Gabrielle. "I see you met Alex."

Gabrielle smiled. "Yeah, I have."

Ephiny bit back a smile. "She's the champion."

"What?"

"You have to fight her."

"I get that."

Ephiny smirked. "Will that be a problem?"

"No." She laughed. "Its not a real fight after all."

Ephiny walked away.

Gabrielle watched her walk away and turned to Alex. She saw the Amazon wave and smiled as she headed away.

<*> <*> <*>
"Full moon tonight Gabrielle."

"Yes I know. What do I have to do with the pig?"

"We follow you to a special place in the woods and wait as you clean the pig in a small steam. You walk to the alter and bath the pig in oil, then kill it. Artemis will show her blessing in some way."

"How will we know she shows her blessing?"

"Trust me, its very noticeable, and its different every time."

"So we wait for the full moon."

"Yes."

Gabrielle sat down. "What else do I do?"

"That's it."

"Sure?"

"Yes."

"Good." She leaned her head back and took a long breath. "I should go."

"Go take a nap. I'll wake you when the time is right."

Gabrielle rose. "That's a good idea." She walked out.

"Gabrielle."

She turned to see Alex. In the sunlight, she could clearly see her eyes now. A dark green, mixed with bits of gray and blue.

"Gabrielle."

She jumped. "Huh..oh sorry." She cleared her throat.

"No apologies." She leaned closer. "I have that affect on people." She gave a toothy grin.

Gabrielle blushed and turned her head.

Alex moved to face her. "You look tired."

"Haven't slept much lately."

"I'm sorry."

"Not your fault."

"No, but I know how not getting enough sleep can get to me."

Gabrielle nodded. "I should go get some sleep."

"Yes. You have quite an exciting night ahead of you."

"Yeah." She took a breath.

"Something the matter?"

"No."

"Sure?"

"Yeah." She looked around them. "I should go."

"Yes."

"Bye."

"Bye, queen." She watched Gabrielle walk off and called to her, "I'll see you tonight, then."

Gabrielle stopped inside her hut and leaned against the wall. 'What is wrong with me? No way I could feel like this...this.....I don't know.' She closed her eyes. 'Perhaps there is something about her, that I'm missing.' She closed her eyes to recall Alex's. The color was unique. She snapped out of her haze and turned to the bed.

<*> <*> <*>
The full moon shone brightly overhead as the women walked under it.

Gabrielle bathed the pig in the stream like she was told and followed the crowd to the alter, where she covered it in the scented oil. Laying it down on her side, she looked up at the sky, then down at the pig. It looked up at her and blinked, then almost smiled. She picked up the dagger and raised it up. The pig didn't flinch. She was about to bring it down, when she saw it turn and look her directly in the eye. She couldn't do it. The dagger was placed back on the alter. "I can't."

"You have to Gabrielle."

She turned to Ephiny. "I see no reason to kill an innocent animal for someone I've never met. Can't we give gifts instead. Why does it have to be blood?" She held onto the pig.

Ephiny turned to look around her, then turned back to Gabrielle. "What else do you suggest?"

"Fruit, flowers, jewelry, other things, but not this." She looked down at the pig. "No."

Ephiny sighed and walked closer. "So be it, but it needs to be done." She turned to the crowd. "Who will take her place?"

Gabrielle stepped back, feeling utterly embarrassed.

A woman stepped into the light of the moon. "I'll do it."

Gabrielle looked up at the voice. "Alex. Why you?"

"Why not?" She grabbed the dagger and stepped to Gabrielle. "I'll help you." She grabbed the handle of the dagger. "Take your hand and cover mine." Gabrielle did so, not knowing why.

Alex raised their hands and brought it down on the animals heart, killing it instantly. She looked over at Gabrielle. "Not so hard."

Gabrielle swallowed and stepped back. "Guess not."

At that moment the moon disappeared and the clouds covered the sky.

Gabrielle looked up. "Is that bad?"

"Well its not good."

Lightening hit a nearby tree, making everyone jump back.

Ephiny walked to it and bent down and shouted out as she held up a small silver arrow. "Looks like it was good." She handed it to Gabrielle. "A gift from Artemis." She smiled and turned to the amazons. "Sisters, we can continue. Tomorrow, the dance."

<*> <*> <*>
"No, look, you promise me that if something happens to me you will not become a monster. There is only one way to change this cycle of hate and it's through love and forgiveness."
 
"Don't go changing, Gabrielle. I like you just the way you are."
 
"No, you promise me."
 
"I promise."

Gabrielle sat up, wiping away the tears, and yawned. She jumped as a knock came to her door. "Come."

Alex entered. "Did I wake you?"

"No." She sat up more. "Come in."

Alex walked a bit more in and sat down. "You okay?"

"Yeah, fine." She grabbed a brush and started to run it through her hair. "You been up long?"

"Yeah, always get up early. Habit."

"Yeah, I had a friend like that."

"Ready for today?"

"Should I be worried at all?"

"No, its just a dance. As far as I know. You might have to dance with chicken heads on your arms, but you should ask Ephiny."

Gabrielle laughed. "Where is she?"

"Eating."

Gabrielle stood up. "I guess that I should get going. Long day."

"Yes it will be." She stood up and watched Gabrielle leave. She was raising the door flap, when something caught her eye. She turned to see the chakrum on the table. The light from outside had reflected on it. She let go of the flap and walked to it. Picking it up, she ran a finger over the design before putting it down and walking out.

<*> <*> <*>
The drum beat, ran loudly through the village.

Ephiny walked around a hut to see the dancing party. She stood, watching as Gabrielle tried to get each step and turn down. Soon she had it.

Spotting Ephiny across the way, she waved her over but saw Ephiny shake her head. She turned to the amazons and talked quietly to them.

Ephiny walked closer to see what they were talking about.

Gabrielle smiled. "As my regent, you have a spot on this dancing party." She smiled. "So get over here and quite laughing at me."

Ephiny shook her head. "No."

"I order you to do it."

"Don't use the power of command on me miss."

Gabrielle arched an eye brow. "Oh no." She walked closer. "Get your amazon butt over here before I have to walk over there and drag you by your hair."

Ephiny almost laughed at how tough Gabrielle tried to be. "All right."

"That's what I thought." She laughed and continued to dance.

<*> <*> <*>
"She's dead."

"She's not dead. I wouldn't let her. C'mon, Gabrielle, wake up ...C'mon, wake up ... C'mon, wake up ... you're scaring me, wake up ... wake up ... Gabrielle, breathe ... C'mon ... C'mon, breath ... maybe she  just needs air ... we need to get air into her lungs ... C'mon, breathe!"
 
"Xena, stop it. She's dead now. She's in a much better place."

"Get out of my way! You don't know anything! Don't you listen to him, Gabrielle ... C'mon, I know you're in there, prove it ... you can show them ... C'mon, wake up and breath ... you never ran from anything in your whole life ... C'mon, fight!"
 
"Xena."

"Fight!"

"Xena! It's time to stop now. Let her cross over peacefully."
 
"What do you know, you've killed so many."
 
"So have you. Let it go."
 
"No ... no ... C'mon, Gabrielle ... C'mon ... C'mon, don't leave me ... Don't you leave me ... Don't leave me.... Don't leave me ...Wake up ... Wake up ... Wake up ..."

"XENA!" Gabrielle jumped awake, looking at her hut, as if for the first time. She spotted the chakrum lying on the table. The tears ran down her face faster as she fell backwards and covered her head with the pillow. "NO!"

Ephiny ran in the hut. "Gabrielle?"

Gabrielle turned over. "Go, leave me alone."

"Gabrielle." She sat down and tried to pull the pillow away. "Gabri...." She bearly dodged a slam towards her face. "Hey, watch it!"

Gabrielle threw the pillow off. "Ephiny?"

"Yeah." She brushed the sweaty hair off of Gabrielle's face. "You okay?"

"Yeah. Bad dream."

"I guess."

"What are you doing here?"

"I heard you screaming outside. Wanna tell me about it?"

Gabrielle shook her head.

Ephiny stood. "I was on my way to wake you for the feast tonight but perhaps you should skip it."

"I...can't."

"I can tell them you aren't feeling well."

"No." She sat up. "I'll go. No need to sit here with time to think anyhow. Better to keep busy."

"Yeah." She waited for Gabrielle to get ready, then followed her out.

<*> <*> <*>
She jumped as Ephiny poked her in the arm. "What?"

"You're day dreaming again."

Gabrielle looked around her. "Think we have enough food here?"

"Perhaps."

Gabrielle turned to look over her table to spot Alex. She smiled and stood up.

Alex looked up just in time to see Gabrielle walk to her. "Why hello queen. And what do I owe this honor?"

Gabrielle smiled. "Call me Gabrielle."

Alex turned serious. "Anything you want....Gabrielle."

"I came over here to ask if you would like to come and join me at my table."

"I would love to." She stood up and followed Gabrielle.

Ephiny shrugged as she saw them walking towards the table. "Gabrielle..."

"Alex will be joining us tonight. Do you mind?"

Ephiny smiled. "Not at all."

<*> <*> <*>
"You are the most dear thing to me in all the world. Yet, instead of protecting you..."

"I'm here because I want to be. I love you, Xena."

"I love you too, Gabrielle."

For the fifth time that night, Gabrielle woke up from her dreams. She laid her head down against her pillow, looking up at the ceiling. "Gods, how am I going to do this without you."

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle squinted as she walked out the door, the sun in her eyes. She ran a hand through her hair and sighed. "I need a bath."

Ephiny walked up to her. "Good morning, sunshine."

"What's so good about it?"

"My aren't we miss bright and cheerful this morning."

She turned to Ephiny.

"If looks could kill...."

"What now, Ephiny?"

"I come over here to see how you are and you get an attitude?"

"Sorry. Had a rough night?"

"Oh, well then my apologies."

"No, I lashed out, I'm sorry."

"Accepted." She smiled.

"I think I'll go have a bath."

"Bathing pools are filled I'm afraid."

"Then I'll go to the lake." She disappeared into her hut.

<*> <*> <*>
She heard light splashing as she drew near to the lake. Brushing past some trees, her eye brows raised as she saw who was in the lake. She walked past the trees, onto the shore. "Alex."

She turned. "My que...er Gabrielle. Good morning."

Gabrielle nodded. "Mind if I join you?"

"Not at all."

Gabrielle disrobed and climbed in the water. "What's on the schedule tonight?"

"The party."

"Anything major in this event?"

"No, just everyone having a good time."

"Good." She dunked herself under the water. Coming up, she was face to face with Alex and visibly trembled.

Alex moved back. "I talked to Ephiny today."

"Bout what?"

"About you needing a new champion." She turned to the bard. "Anyone in mind yet?"

She shook her head. "Haven't looked."

Alex swam forward. "Well if you can't find anyone, I'm available."

Gabrielle looked up to see the sparkle in the other woman's eyes. "Okay."

Alex smiled. "Thank you."

<*> <*> <*>
"I heard about Xena."

Gabrielle turned over on her side. "From who?"

Alex turned to her. "Everyone."

"What did they say?"

"That you were lovers."

"Oh." She looked away.

"She must have been very special to you."

"She was the only one." Her eyes closed remembering.

Alex bit her lip and sat up. "I think we should get back now. Probably sent a search party after us."

Gabrielle smiled. "Hope not." She stood and felt a hand at her arm. She turned to Alex.

Alex opened her mouth several times, but no sound came out. She finally gave up and let go of Gabrielle's arm, then walked away.

Gabrielle watched her leave, confused.

<*> <*> <*>
"Gabrielle help me with this."

Gabrielle ran over to help hold up the pole as Ephiny fastened it to the ground.

"Thanks."

"No problem. Ephiny we need to talk."

"Bout what?"

"Who told Alex about Xena?"

Ephiny turned to her. "Not me. Why did she bring her up?"

"Yes."

"I'm sorry Gabrielle. She didn't tell you who said anything."

"No. I didn't ask though." She lowered her head.

"Maybe this party will help you get your mind off of things for awhile."

"I hope so. Cause right now, I'm about to go insane." She laughed.

Ephiny shook her head and patted Gabrielle on the back. "Don't worry, you'll be so busy the rest of the week that you won't have time to think about anything but the task at hand."

Gabrielle smiled. "Hopefully."

"If not, I can always smack you around a few times, or put you out of your misery."

"You wouldn't dare hurt a queen." She batted her eyelashes.

"Don't say that, my queen, I just might."

<*> <*> <*>
Alex walked up to Gabrielle when she saw her come to the party. "My queen."

"I told you. Call me Gabrielle."

Alex smiled. "I don't think I can."

She turned to her. "Why not?"

"Where I'm from, we don't call our queens anything but."

"Well here, things are different. Gabrielle."

"All right. Gabrielle."

Gabrielle smiled and looked away.

"Something bothering you?"

"No, why?"

"It shows."

"Well, I'm fine."

"We get few chances in this world to make friends. I want you to know that I think of you as mine."

"Thank you."

"My pleasure."

Gabrielle closed her eyes. She opened them and looked up at Alex.

"Something the matter?"

"No."

"Sure?"

"Yeah. I'm fine."

Alex smiled. "If you ever need to talk I'm here. I know we just met a few days ago, but I want you to feel that you can talk to me." She leaned closer. "I know how to keep secrets."

"Thank you again."

Alex nodded and walked off.

<*> <*> <*>
"What's the matter with you?"

"What do you mean?"

"I don't know ... you just seem bigger."

"No, I'm not. It's just this mountain air, I feel motivated."

"You didn't find a sorcerer to enhance your motives, did you?"

"No. Would you get over it."

-----------------
"I know, wisdom before weapons."

"I'll keep this for the time being."

"Hah! It's not like your breasts aren't dangerous enough ...that was a joke, you can laugh.

Gabrielle laughed out loud and looked around her at the faces of her amazons. Her laughed died instantly. "Sorry."

Ephiny turned to her. "Something you want to share with the rest of the group?"

She turned to Ephiny. "No."

"Then pay attention." She turned back to the council.

Gabrielle's smile returned.

<*> <*> <*>
Alex ran to Gabrielle. "Hey there."

Gabrielle smiled. "Hey. How was the practice?"

"They wore me out."

Gabrielle laughed. "That's good."

"Good?"

"A little exercise is good for all of us sometimes."

"Oh, care to challenge that."

"How?"

"Come spar with me."

Gabrielle shook her head.

"Please. Come on, show me what you got, or are you afraid to get beat."

Gabrielle turned to her. "Lets go." She grabbed her staff and followed Alex.

They stopped at the field.

Alex raised the staff. "Ready?"

"Ready."

Alex twirled the staff, then struck out at Gabrielle, missing.

"I was taught by the best, so don't be too surprised when you lose." She swung for Alex's head, missing."

"Trying to behead me?"

Gabrielle laughed.

Alex faked to Gabrielle's left, then delivered a blow to Gabrielle's legs, knocking her on her butt. "You were saying."

Gabrielle stood up. "Again."

Alex spun around, swinging for Gabrielle's stomach and missed. A blow to her side, made her twirl to the left, catching Gabrielle's arm.

"Ow."

Alex smiled. "Who taught you? I think they need another lesson themselves." She saw Gabrielle's glare. "What?"

Gabrielle turned from her.

Alex saw this and dropped her smile. "Xena taught you didn't she. Gods Gabrielle, I'm so sorry. I didn't mean..."

"I know."

"Wanna take a break?"

"No. Not until I knock you down one more time."

Alex threw down her staff. "Hand to hand?"

Gabrielle threw down hers. "All right." She turned. "Looks like we have an audience."

Alex turned to see a group of Amazons watching them. "Guess so." She turned to Gabrielle. "Ready?"

<*> <*> <*>
The next day went by quickly. The new Amazons were added to the clan and a party came after.

"Gabrielle."

"Hmm?" She turned to see Alex.

"You seem troubled?"

"I'm fine."

"Sure?"

"Yes. Stop worrying about me."

"Can't help it."

Gabrielle smiled and reached up to stroke Alex's face. "Thank you. Feels great to have someone looking after me again." She placed a feather light kiss on Alex's lips and walked away.

Ephiny smiled from across the village, having seen the whole exchange. She stood and followed Gabrielle to her hut. Knocking once. "Gabrielle, can I come in?"

"Yes."

She entered to see Gabrielle sitting on the bed, looking over some scrolls. "The treaties?"

"Yes." She looked up. "What can I do for you?"

"I saw that little thing between you and Alex."

Gabrielle smiled and looked down. "Not what you think."

"No."

Gabrielle looked up. "No. If it was, it would be more then a small kiss."

Ephiny laughed. "Nice to see your spirit back." She sat down. "But really. Anything going on between you?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"She's a friend. Hard to find those and I don't want to lose that..."

"Or get attached."

"Wasn't going to say that. I was going to say I don't want to lose that just because I...I..."

"Stumped?"

"Yes. Don't know what I wanted to say really. Forget the issue please."

"Forgotten."

"Thanks." She returned to the scrolls.

"Gabrielle."

"What?"

"About the fight....you know you need a champion right."

"Perhaps I can fight." She looked up. "The funny thing is though...Alex said that she would be my champion. Isn't she theirs?"

"Not anymore. She doesn't want to fight you."

"Oh. Then who's the champion now?"

"Don't know."

"Should I have Alex fight for me?"

"Yes."

Gabrielle nodded. "Then I'll tell her." She stood up, smile on face.

Alex wasn't far. She was sitting by the food hut.

"Alex."

She turned and looked up, with a smile. "Gabrielle."

"I have decided to make you my champion."

Alex stood. "Thank you. Don't know how much this means."

"I think I do. But what about your tribe."

"What about it?"

"Won't they be angry for you fighting against them?"

"Perhaps. Doesn't matter anyway."

"Why not?"

She smiled. "I want to ask you to join this tribe."

"You mean stay here."

"Yes, if you wish."

"I would love that. Actually I was worried about you leaving in a few weeks. I didn't know who I would talk to then." She smiled. "I would be happy to join you with this tribe." She moved closer. "After all, you will be my champion."

Alex smiled. "Yes, there is that."

Gabrielle turned. "I need to get back to the treaties. I just wanted to tell you myself."

"Thank you for taking the effort."

"No effort at all." She started to walk away.

"Gabrielle."

She stopped and turned to see Alex's mouth opening and closing. "Yes."

Alex finally gave up. "Nothing." She sat down.

Gabrielle walked away to her hut and sat down on the bed. She looked at all her scrolls lining the bed and sighed. Picking up the one for the treaty, she grabbed her quill and started to write.

<*> <*> <*>
Ephiny stepped into the hut, and saw Gabrielle standing in front of the mirror. "Problems?"

"Yes. I have no idea what to wear."

Ephiny laughed. "Just a fight Gabrielle."

"Yes, I know that, but I want to look good."

"For Alex."

She turned to Ephiny. "Stop that."

"Sorry." She walked forward and placed a wrapped object on the bed. "Perhaps this will help." She backed away and looked at Gabrielle.

Gabrielle turned to her then to the package. "What is it?"

"Open it."

Gabrielle walked forward and unwrapped the object. It was a long white dress. No sleeves, and sandals to match. She looked up.

"From a secret admirer." She smiled.

Gabrielle turned to the dress. "Its beautiful." She picked up the silver necklace that was with it.

"She hoped you'd like it." She backed up to the door and walked out.

Gabrielle turned to the dress again and started to undress.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle turned to look at herself in the mirror and smiled. The dress fit perfectly, clinging to all the right places and leaving room for her legs. She adjusted the necklace at her throat and slipped on her sandals. Doing that, she braided her hair and walked out.

Ephiny greeted her. "Gabrielle." She followed her to the throne and took a seat next to her. "The fight will begin on you command."

Gabrielle smiled. "Let the challenge begin."

The two fighters walked into the circle. Gabrielle watched the deep, serious look on Alex's face and turned to the other fighter. The woman was tall, with a muscular build, but not much of a chance against Alex."

The fight went on and on, Gabrielle got bored and started to drift off, when Ephiny nudged her arm. She turned to the fight and watched as the other warrior moved to the right, with her sword high in the air, she struck down towards Alex. Alex turned just in time but couldn't move out of the way.

Gabrielle's eyes followed Alex as she flipped backwards, kicking the other woman in the chin. Alex rolled under the warrior, knocking her feet out from under her then straddled her waist. "You give."

The woman nodded and was let up. She and Alex exchanged shakes and left each other.

Gabrielle watched Alex walk up to her. "Well done."

Alex bowed. "Anything for my queen."

"For your reward, you shall be brought into this tribe. Do you accept?"

Alex nodded. "I do."

Gabrielle smiled. "Have a seat."

Alex took a seat next to Gabrielle.

Gabrielle looked at Ephiny. "Now what?"

"Now we have another party." She stood up and turned to the Amazons. "Amazons, let us welcome another member to our tribe." They cheered.

Alex stood as Gabrielle did and together they walked off to the celebration. She leaned towards Gabrielle as she walked. "Do you like your dress?"

"I do."

"It looks great on you."

She turned to face her. "Thank you."

"You are very welcome. Anything for my new queen." She smiled.

Gabrielle turned away.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle looked up just in time to see Alex. "Morning."

"Morning. Sleep well."

"Actually yes. First night for a long time really."

"That's good." She sat down behind Gabrielle, taking the oil into her own hands. "Let me do that." She rubbed the oil on her hands and placed them at Gabrielle's shoulders, rubbing soft and hard. "You're tense, my queen."

"Please, call me Gabrielle."

"Sorry, Gabrielle." She moved closer and raised up on her knees to get a better position. "Right here." She pressed harder.

"Right there." She groaned as a stiff muscle was loosened. "Gods that's good. I haven't been able to get them out."

"Must have had a lot on your mind.......and shoulders."

"Sometimes I feel like I have the world on them."

"Isn't right for someone like you to hold that much on your own."

"Like me?" She turned around to face Alex.

"Sweet, loving, kind. I hate to see you upset."

She looked away. "Well, no one is immune to troubles, even me." She looked down.

"The dead can hear our thoughts Gabrielle."

"What?"

"She can hear you, when you think of her."

She turned around to face her again. "How did you know I was thinking of her?"

"I just did."

Gabrielle stared into those brown eyes for what seemed like forever, then shook her head. "I don't know what to do sometimes."

"Sometimes its hard to follow what our head tells us."

Gabrielle nodded.

"That's why we have a heart. Instincts."

"Yes." She felt the hands return to her shoulders. "I want to thank you."

"For what?"

"For being here, being a friend. Someone I can talk to about things."

"My pleasure."

<*> <*> <*>
"Come in." She turned to see Alex. "Hi. What's up?"

"Just walking around, getting to know the village, that sort of thing. Thought I'd come and see how you were. So how are you?"

"Fine. Much better." She smiled.

Alex walked in further, to the table, seeing the chakrum. "I saw this earlier. May I ask what it is?"

"Its called a chakrum."

"How does it work?"

"You throw it at an object. It usually bounces off things, and come back."

"That must have taken a long time to learn."

"I'd imagine so, but I'm not the one who used it."

"Who did?"

"Xena."

"Oh, she must have been some fighter."

"She was. That is perhaps what I loved most about her. Her fire."

Alex saw the sword. "You always keep her weapons out."

"Yes."

She looked up. "Sorry I didn't mean to...."

"No problem." She picked up the chakrum. "Alex."

"Hmm?"

"Have you ever lost anyone close to you?" She looked up at the warrior.

"Yes."

"May I ask who?"

Alex smiled. "An old friend."

"So you know how it is then."

She turned to Gabrielle.

"Losing a love."

"How did you know she was my lover?"

"Your eyes told me."

"You read eyes."

"I had to learn how. Xena never voiced her thoughts at first and still didn't till the last bit. I learned how to read her when she threw up her masks. It was hard most of the time."

"How long did you know each other?"

"Few years."

Alex took a step towards the door. "I'll see you later, then." She saw Gabrielle nod and walked out.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle spotted Alex, leaning across the table, towards Ephiny and drew closer. "What's going on?"

Alex turned to her and smiled. "What else. Some more men who want to get greedy by taking these lands."

Gabrielle's eyebrows raised. "Ephiny."

"Valasis and his men are headed this way."

"How do you know that?"

"Messenger." She held up the parchment.

"Ours?"

She nodded.

"So we prepare for battle then?"

"Looks like it." Ephiny stood. "Gabrielle I want you far away from here as possible."

"But I'm..."

"No arguments. Queen or no queen, you are my friend and I want you out of here. You take her home, Alex."

Alex turned to Ephiny. "Where is that?"

"Poteidaia."

Gabrielle sat down. "There is no way I'm leaving while my Amazons fight. I want to..."

"NO! Don't make me tie you up and throw you over a horse. You are going and that is final."

"Gee, forgot the last time I heard that."

Ephiny smiled. "And she was smart. Now get out of here before morning."

<*> <*> <*>
No sound was made as the two women rode from the village. They exchanged glances here and there but didn't really move to make a conversation. It was when they reached a town, that Alex stepped down and turned to Gabrielle.

"You go check it out while I stable the horses."

Gabrielle nodded and walked into the tavern. Looking around, she spotted an empty table in the back row. Sitting down, she saw the waiter come over. "Two meals with a port and cider."

The woman nodded and walked off.

Gabrielle laid her head back and relaxed.

"Not falling asleep are we?"

She opened her eyes to see Alex. "No, just...resting my eyes."

"Oh, I've heard that one before my...........Gabrielle."

Gabrielle smiled. "Sit. I ordered the food and drinks. You like port, right?"

Alex smiled. "Yeah."

Gabrielle laid her head back and again closed her eyes. Feeling the eyes on her, she opened hers and looked over at Alex, who was watching her. "Something fascinate you warrior?"

Alex smiled. "Perhaps." She turned.

Gabrielle opened her mouth to speak but was cut off as their food arrived. "Thanks."

Alex turned to her. "You don't drink port?"

"No. Never liked the stuff, really. X... I just never liked it." She busied herself in her food.

"Xena what?"

She looked up. "Xena was the only one that drank it." Attention back on food.

Alex smiled. "How long ago?"

"Hmm?"

"How long ago did you meet. How did you meet?"

Gabrielle smiled. "Well, my village was under attack and Xena came to our rescue, fighting off our attackers. I followed her even after she told me not to and we've been together ever since."

"Not much to it is there?"

"Not really. It was just chance that she had come around there. She was giving up before we met."

"Giving up?"

She turned to Alex. "You see, Xena was a warlord that gained profit and enthusiasm from raiding and attacking villages. She once told me that she would never be able to rinse the blood from her hands."

"That bad?"

"They called her 'The Destroyer of Nations'. She must have been really bad."

"She tells...told you these things about herself?"

"Yes. Sometimes we would run into someone from her past and it would come out. She eventually became really open. I guess she found out that its easier to get it out then to keep it in." She looked away and sighed.

"I guess I don't have to ask if you miss her, do I?"

"No."

Alex closed her eyes and let out a sigh. "May I ask how she died?"

Gabrielle turned to her. "What?"

"I'm sorry I..."

"No, I didn't hear you. What did you say?"

"I wanted to know how she died, if that was.."

"Its fine." She sat down. "Ares had tricked her with his ways....evil ways. She went back to him after his tricks. She had no memory of me really except what her mind threw out I guess. She knew me yet she didn't. You understand?"

"Yes go on."

"Anyway, she got me and tried to remember who I was. The evil Ares gave her won over and she sent me away. Ares was trying to kill me when she stepped in and...." She looked away. "Died by the sword, protecting me."

"She must of loved you very much."

She looked up. "I hope so, because after three years this is still killing me." She rose and walked out of camp.

Alex watched her leave and took a deep breath, lowering her head. She laid down and looked up at the stars.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle woke up and looked around. Rubbing her face, she yawned and turned to the now dead fire. She looked over and smiled when she saw that Alex was still asleep. She crawled over and watched her sleep.

Alex opened an eye. "Can I help you?" She smiled.

"Great instincts." She sat down. "Do all warriors have them?"

"Not all." She opened the other eye. "Why?"

Gabrielle smiled. "No reason."

<*> <*> <*>
"I've been to your village but once about five years ago."

"Well it hasn't changed much, I tell you."

Alex laughed. "You sound disappointed about that."

"I am. I should of been born in...in...Athens. Now there's a city! The sights, the sounds, the people. My gods, it would be an exciting time growing up." She heard Alex laugh and turned to her. "What?"

"You."

"What about me?"

"You always seem to make me laugh. So much energy and enthusiasm."

"I'm a bard you know. Energy is needed to stand on stage and command the toughest audience."

"What was your toughest audience?"

"Xena."

"Oh?"

"It took lots of skill to get her to stay still long enough to listen to a story. The stories that I told her had to have some excitement."

"After you two got together. Easier then?"

She snorted. "You kidding."

"I take it it wasn't then."

"No. Even harder to command her attention with a story."

"Why?"

Gabrielle blushed. "Never mind."

"Oh, I want to know now."

"No." She smiled. "My secret."

"Unfair move...bard."

"You think so?"

"I do."

She turned to Alex. "Get used to it."

<*> <*> <*>
They reached Potedia two days later.

Alex stabled the horses, while Gabrielle went to talk to her family. Entering the stables, she felt the eyes on her. Looking up into the hay loft, she spotted a dark haired woman, pitching hay for the horses. "Need any help?"

The woman turned. "No thanks. I'm done anyway. Who are you?"

"Alex, friend of Gabrielle's."

The woman's eyes widened at the mention of Gabrielle. "She okay?"

"She's fine. She's inside the house, I think."

The woman ran past Alex not stopping.

Alex shook her head and lead the horses to a stall.

Gabrielle looked around the house. "Anyone home?"

"Is that you dear?" Her mother came from the kitchen. "Gabrielle." She pulled her daughter into a hug and held on tight. Pulling away, she looked over Gabrielle's shoulder. "Where's Xena?"

"Not here."

"You alone?"

"No, I have an Amazon with me. Alex."

Her father walked in at that moment and wrapped Gabrielle up in a hug as well. "Hey sweetheart. Figure out where home is?" He laughed. "Where's that warrior of yours?" His tone was anything but friendly at the mention of Xena.

Gabrielle pulled away from him. "That warrior?"

"Xena." He saw the fire in those green eyes. "Where is she?"

"Like you care."

He frowned. "What is that about? I simply asked where she is."

"You don't like her anyhow, so why ask."

His shoulders sagged. "No I don't but that doesn't give you the right to get an attitude with your father. I never could understand how you could travel with a blood thirsty warlord all these....."

"STOP IT!!!"

The room was silent.

Her mother stepped up. "Gabrielle, what has gotten into you?"

Gabrielle turned to her father. "Xena is not a warlord anymore and she is not blood thirsty, father."

He snorted. "We all have our opinion."

The anger in her eyes, started to show on her face. "For your information, Xena is dead. You happy? Your little girl will no longer be traveling with a warlord anymore."

They heard the door close and turned to it to see Alex.

"Am I interrupting?"

Gabrielle wiped her tears. "No."

Her father turned to Gabrielle. "I'm sorry, I didn't..."

"No, I know. You just didn't think." She pushed past him and walked out, slamming the door.

Her family looked at Alex.

She looked at each and tried a smiled. "Hi."

"Who are you?" he asked.

"Alex."

"Another warrior."

"Geez dad, when will you stop?" Lila walked out the door too.

He looked from his wife to Alex with a confused expression. "What?"

Alex rolled her eyes and walked out.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle slammed her fists against the stable wall. She felt a hand at her shoulder and jumped as she turned. "Alex."

"You okay?"

She shook her head. "No." Without thinking she leaned forward and wrapped her arms around Alex, who did the same. She cried.

"Let it out, I'm here for you." She laid her head down on the soft hair and closed her eyes. "It'll be okay."

Gabrielle stopped crying and looked up. "Thank you for being here with me."

"Where else would I be?"

Gabrielle felt her anger leave at those words. So familiar yet alien. She smiled not knowing what else to do.

"I heard it."

"Heard what?"

"You defending her.....I'm sure she liked it."

Gabrielle hid her face in Alex's neck. "I hope so."

"Do you want to leave?"

"Yes."

Lila came running up. "Gabrielle, are you okay?"

Alex smiled. "She's fine."

Gabrielle wiped her face and looked at her sister. "I'm okay."

Lila smiled. "Good. I'm sorry for..."

"Don't worry about it. Its not your fault."

"I didn't know that she...." She looked down.

"I know." She laid her head against Alex's chest and closed her eyes.

<*> <*> <*>
"All set?"

"Yeah. I just need to go tell Lila bye and then we'll go."

"I'll wait for you here."

"I won't be long."

"Take the time you need." She sat down on some hay. "I'm in no hurry."

Gabrielle smiled and walked off. She came to the house and slowly opened the door. Seeing no one inside, she walked in and gently closed the door, then walked to Lila's room. She knocked lightly. "Lila."

"Come in Gabrielle."

She walked and froze when she saw her parents sitting down with her sister. "What is..."

Her father spoke first. "Gabrielle, I would like to apologize for earlier. I had no right to say what I did. I didn't know that she was gone and I'm sorry. I realize that I never gave it much thought to think of her as nothing more then a....a..." He sighed. "I'm sorry. I guess you knew what you were doing when you went with her."

"I did."

Lila turned to her. "I'm sorry. They didn't want you to.."

"Its okay." She smiled. "I accept the apology."

"Will you stay the night?" Lila stood.

"No, I'm leaving with Alex and going.....I don't know. Maybe Athens."

Her mother looked down. "Whatever is best."

"I think it would be a good time for me to leave. A lot was said and I think we need our time." She reached for the handle.

Lila walked to her. "At least give your sister a hug."

<*> <*> <*>
Alex looked up to see Gabrielle enter the stable. "All done?"

"Yeah. My father apologized."

"Good." She stood. "Ready?"

"Yeah."

They climbed up the horses and set off.

"Where to?"

"Wherever the road takes us."

"Sounds good."

"Doesn't it?"

------------
"I let my fear and hatred blind me to everything."
 
"Sometimes the past can do that. If I had been through ..."

"No. You understand hatred, but you've never given in to it. You don't know how much I love ... that."

----------
"Promise me one thing...you'll follow your heart and don't worry about me."
 
"You're part of my heart Gabrielle. You've been so good for me. I don't think I would ever have let myself feel the way I feel now about Ulysses if it wasn't for you teaching me how to love."

----------
"I love you, Xena."
 
"I love you too, Gabrielle."

-------
"You are the most dear thing to me in all the world. Yet, instead of protecting you..."
 
"I'm here because I want to be. I love you, Xena."

"I love you too, Gabrielle."

"GO AWAY. NO!!!" Gabrielle jumped awake. The only thing she was aware of was the woman at her side, stroking her hair gently.

"Shh, just a dream. Go to sleep. Shh, I got ya."

Gabrielle leaned into that caress. She laid back down, arms wrapped around her. She turned around to face the woman and took in the scent. Something was different. Her eyes popped open and she looked up to see Alex. She pulled away.

"What?"

Gabrielle didn't know what was wrong.

"I'm sorry, you were dreaming and I heard you scream and I had..."

"Its okay." She moved over to the arms once more. "I just got scared."

"Thought it was your warrior?"

"Yes." She looked up at Alex. "Sorry."

"For what?"

"I don't know."

<*> <*> <*>
They moved little that day. Just hung around the camp, relaxing.

Gabrielle turned her head when she heard Alex enter camp, only it wasn't Alex. She jumped up and grabbed her staff, when she saw the man. "Go away."

He smiled. "And what if I don't?" He drew his sword and jumped when he felt the point of another at his back.

"Which answer do you want?"

Gabrielle smiled. "Where were you?"

"Taking a bath, do you mind."

"No."

"I got here, doesn't that matter."

"Maybe."

The man cleared his throat. "What about me?"

"Haven't forgotten you." Her sword handle connected with his head. "Happy?"

Gabrielle smiled. "Got here in the nic of time."

"Don't I always?" She sheathed her sword.

"Well, actually, we haven't fought together yet." She saw Alex tense and turn.

"Right. Well I guess that's a new thing for me. Nic of time." She laughed weakly.

Gabrielle stared on confused. "I guess."

"What?"

"Nothing." She grabbed a towel. "You take care of ugly while I swim."

"Gee thanks." She smiled and watched Gabrielle walk away.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle walked into camp and looked around. "Where..." She looked up when Alex pointed to see the man hanging overhead. Feet and hands tied, mouth gagged. She laughed. "Right place for him."

Alex shrugged. "Hungry?"

"No. Lets go." She grabbed her bag and jumped up on her horse. "Just want to get some distance between us."

"No hurry you know."

"I know. I just hate to stay in one place too long."

"I know." She jumped up onto the horse and they headed out.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle looked at Alex from across the fire. "Alex."

"Hmm?"

"Where should we go?"

"Don't know. Where do you want to go?"

"Athens."

"Sounds good." She turned to the bard. "Perhaps get some shopping in, huh."

Gabrielle turned to her. "How did you know I liked to shop?"

"So you're a bard huh?" she asked changing the subject.

"Yeah." She turned to Alex. "What?"

Alex sat back and leaned against a rock. "So tell me a story."

"Why?"

"See if I'm an easier audience then Xena."

Gabrielle stood. "What type of story?"

"Your favorite."

"All my favorites include Xena."

"Then tell me one of them." She tilted her head. "I'm waiting."

Gabrielle laughed. "Just a second."

<*> <*> <*>
"What's the matter with you?"
 
"What do you mean?"

"I don't know ... you just seem bigger."
 
"No, I'm not. It's just this mountain air, I feel motivated."
 
"You didn't find a sorcerer to enhance your motives, did you?"
 
"No. Would you get over it. Ow ooh. Wow, would you look at that. Hard to tell what's in these clothes. There hand me downs you know. I know, wisdom before weapons."
 
"I'll keep this for the time being."
 
"Hah! It's not like your breasts aren't dangerous enough ...that was a joke, you can laugh.

Gabrielle opened her eyes, turning towards Alex, who was busy with her dagger. She laughed.

Alex turned. "Well, look who woke up." She smiled. "Must have been some dream."

"Huh?"

She turned to Gabrielle. "You laugh and talk in your sleep."

"What did I say?"

"All I heard was...breasts aren't dangerous enough. What was that about?"

Gabrielle laughed and scooted over to Alex. "It was when me and Xena first met. I went and bought a breast dagger and went to show Xena. She of course spotted that something was up. The dagger fell out, I was caught, and that was the end of it." She smiled.

"And the breasts came in where?" She was smiling.

Gabrielle stood up. "She stuck it between hers and I laughed and said its not like your breasts aren't dangerous enough. She didn't smile and I had to add, that was a joke you can laugh. It was really funny." She looked at Alex. "One of those you had to be there things."

"I can see why Xena didn't let you go." She looked up. "You're quite the woman, Gabrielle."

Gabrielle could swear she saw Alex's eyes start to tear up. "Thanks." She sat down next to the warrior. "I mean that."

Alex turned to her. "So did I." She stood. "I'm going for a dip." She set down her dagger and grabbed a towel, walking away.

Gabrielle rose, grabbed one herself and followed.

Alex turned to see Gabrielle. "I take it your joining me."

"I am." She smiled. "Mind?"

"Not at all." She turned and kept walking.

They stopped in front of the small pond and undressed, then slipped into the cool water.

"Ahh, feels great." Gabrielle tilted her head back, wetting her hair. "Don't you a..." She turned to talk to Alex but she wasn't there. "...gree." She shook her head and looked around. "Alex." A head popped out of the water, making her jump. "Don't do that."

"Sorry."

"I hate surprises."

"I guess so." She smiled.

"You have similarities."

"Huh?"

"You and Xena."

"Back to her are we." She laughed. "And what are those?"

"Your smile. Both can brighten up a room. Your eyes hold warmth that I can't explain, but I sense pain behind those brown jewels. Care to talk?"

Alex shook her head. "Not really. I'm not one for talking."

"Please. Tell me what's wrong. I'm your friend and I'd like to help. You've helped me more then enough." She moved in front of Alex.

Alex smiled. "I know you do but I just can't. Maybe later."

"Like when?"

"You don't stop do you?"

"No."

Alex's smile dropped and her eyes drew to those soft lips in front of her. Without thinking, she leaned forward and brushed her lips against Gabrielle's. So soft. She pulled away and opened her eyes. Gabrielle's held no anger, or hint of pulling away. She pushed forward and captured those lips again. When she felt the hand at the back of her head, she pushed her tongue through and gained control. "Gods Gabrielle..." Her eyes opened as she pulled away. "I've been wanting to do that for a long time."

Gabrielle smiled. "Me too." She licked her lips and laughed when she saw Alex's eyes follow her tongue. "Hey."

Alex looked up. "Huh?"

"You looked dazed there for a minute."

"No, just caught up in the moment." She smiled. "We should get out of here."

Gabrielle nodded and watched Alex exit the water.

<*> <*> <*>
"You always said that I was the brave one. Look at you now. If this is to be our destiny, let's see it out together. Even in death, Gabrielle, I will never leave you."

"I love you, Gabrielle."

"I love you, Xena."
 
"Until the other side then ... we'll be together."
 
"Till then."

-------
"Xena, I know you can hear me wherever you are. I know you always told me to be strong. But I can't be, not now. You can't leave me. I know it's not your time. I can feel it in my heart. I feel this emptiness that I have never felt before and it scares me. Above all, just remember to fight. Fight to come back. This world needs you. I need you."

Gabrielle opened her eyes and sat up. "But you did. You left me here alone without a word. Protecting me yes I know, but still you left. The emptiness is back, Xena and I know that this time, it won't be leaving."

<*> <*> <*>
Alex watched Gabrielle move around the campsite. "Looking for something?"

"Yes."

"And?"

Gabrielle stopped and turned. "And what?"

"Mind telling me what you're looking for?"

"A shift. A green one."

"Ah." She reached out to her left and picked up a green object. "This perhaps?"

Gabrielle turned. "Yes, there it is." She reached out to grab it and looked at Alex when she didn't let go. "Let go."

Alex smiled and let go. "Something on your mind Gabrielle?"

"No, why?"

"You haven't said but a few words to me all morning."

Gabrielle stopped and turned to her. "I haven't."

"No. I'm getting worried here."

Gabrielle sighed and sat down in front of Alex. "I"m sorry I have been ignoring you. I just am a bit confused right now."

"With what?"

"With life."

"With me?" She lowered her eyes.

Gabrielle pulled her chin up. "No. Just with things."

"You still miss Xena."

"Yes, and I think I always will. I'm sorry, its just going to take time."

Alex nodded. "Xena was very lucky."

"No I'm lucky."

Alex raised a hand and stroked Gabrielle's cheek. "I bet you'd give anything to have Xena back."

"I would."

Alex smiled. "Wishes can come true you know." She moved away and stood, walking into the woods.

<*> <*> <*>
The winter winds flew around them. The ground covered with snow. Gabrielle had to use her bardic talents to get them some money for furs and cloaks. They have no trouble and moved through the cold climate.

Alex jumped down off her horse and walked to Gabrielle. "Wanna stop?"

"Why?"

"I have a surprise for you."

"You know I hate surprises."

"You'll like this one. I hope." They moved off the path and sat down.

"What is the surprise?"

"Close your eyes."

Gabrielle did so.

"Okay, open them."

Gabrielle opened her eyes to see a red handled dagger in front of her.

"You said you wanted one. Its a breast dagger." She laughed. "You like it."

"I love it." She held it and slipped it down her front. "Fits well."

"It should. You have plenty to..."

Gabrielle turned to her, eyes raised. "Sorry. Got carried away."

"It would seem so." She laughed. "Its okay though." She pulled Alex into a hug. "Thank you."

Alex moved to stand.

"Wait!"

"What?" She stood and turned to look down at Gabrielle. "What is it?"

"I didn't get a gift for you."

Alex smiled and kneeled in front of her. "Don't worry about it. Your the only gift I need." She patted Gabrielle on the arm and stood up, walking away.

Gabrielle ran a finger over the breast dagger and closed her eyes.
 
"I don't have a gift for you."
 
"Gabrielle, you are a gift to me."

Her eyes opened and she turned to where Alex was now standing. 'Nah, just a coincidence.' She watched Alex talk softly to the horse. 'Isn't it?'

They started off soon and continued down the road.

"Where shall we go now, Gabrielle?"

Gabrielle turned to her. "Amphipolis."

<*> <*> <*>
They reached Amphipolis after nightfall and quietly entered the tavern.

"I'll stable the horses. Why don't you go in first. Get a table and some food." She smiled and led the horses off.

Alex turned towards the Inn/Tavern and walked forward. She grabbed a table and ordered some food and drinks then waited for Gabrielle.

Gabrielle soon walked in and looked over at Alex, who was sitting at a table towards the back. "Order food?"

"All set."

A woman came over, setting the food down. She smiled. "Gabrielle."

Gabrielle stood and gave the woman a huge hug. "Cyrene."

"So nice to see you." She turned to Alex. "And who's your friend?"

"Alex. She's an Amazon."

Cyrene studied Alex for a bit, then turned to Gabrielle. "So where's Xena?"

Gabrielle bit her lip.

Cyrene took a breath. "Don't tell me." She smiled. "You two got in a fight and she's off getting her temper under control."

"No."

"Then what?"

"She died."

"What?" She sunk to the chair. "How?"

"Long story and I will tell you later."

"She die protecting you?"

"Yes."

Cyrene nodded. "No grief, she died the way she wanted. I promised." She took a few breaths and walked away.

Gabrielle sat down. "That was..."

"I know who it was."

Gabrielle detected the slight hint of anger in that voice. "What?"

No answer.

"At least tell me something. Lie if you must."

Alex turned to her. "I'll be right back." She stood and walked out the door.

Gabrielle laid her head down on the table and closed her eyes.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle slid off her cloak and added a few more logs to the fire. That done, she sat down on the bed and looked at the door. She jumped when it opened.

Alex walked in. She turned to Gabrielle and took off the cloak. She slid off her boots and sat down on a chair by the window, away from Gabrielle.

"Did I miss something?"

She turned to her. "Why?"

"You mad at me?"

"No." Her eyes returned to the window.

"You have an attitude like Xena's."

Alex stood up. "I'm sick of hearing about Xena. If she was so good, why isn't she here now?"

Gabrielle rose and slapped Alex across the face. "Don't ever talk about her that way."

Alex looked into those green eyes.

Gabrielle stepped back. "If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were jealous of Xena."

"I can't be jealous of Xena because...." She stopped.

"Yes, because.... Because what Alex?"

Alex closed her eyes. "Never mind."

Gabrielle watched the woman sit down and turned to the window. "Will you turn away from that damn window and look at me."

Alex turned and stood, looking at Gabrielle. "I'm looking, you happy." She moved forward, making Gabrielle back up against a wall.

"Stop it Alex."

"Stop what?" Her hands rose on each side of Gabrielle, against the wall. "Stop what, Gabrielle?"

Gabrielle was silent as she looked into Alex's eyes. She saw pain, hurt, confusion, and something else. A fire that was so familiar burned in her eyes.

Alex saw Gabrielle study her and pulled back. "Don't."

"What?"

"My eyes tell you a story, bard?"

"No."

"Good. Because there is no story. I have no story to tell. I'm here and I wish that I could tell you that....that...that I...a... Forget it." She walked out, slamming the door behind her.

<*> <*> <*>
Gabrielle saw Alex sitting by herself, next to the lake. "I'm sorry."

No answer.

Gabrielle walked forward. "I don't know what's going on but I want to."

No answer.

Gabrielle moved closer. "I just need you to tell me what you need to. Let me help you."

Alex rose so fast, that Gabrielle didn't have time to react. The next thing she knew she was pulled forward and captured by those strong, soft lips. She couldn't think but reacted. Their mouths dueled passionately and fiercely. Gabrielle pulled back and put a finger to her tingling lips.

Alex ran away.

Gabrielle watched her leave and sunk to the ground, closing her eyes. "My gods."

<*> <*> <*>
Alex made it to the stables and jumped up onto her horse. As she was moving out of the stables, she saw Gabrielle block the doorway. "Get out of my way."

"No."

"Now!"

"I'm not leaving."

Alex jumped down and walked to Gabrielle. She raised a hand to her shoulder to push her to the side and stopped when Gabrielle pulled her close.

"No more secrets Alex. Tell me the truth."

"What truth?"

"Tell me who you are? I need to hear it to know I'm not insane."

"No."

"So its true."

"What?"

A tear worked its way down Gabrielle's cheek. "Xena?"

Alex stepped back. "No. Not Xena." She looked away. "Not anymore."

Gabrielle started to cry. "It can't be." When Alex looked up, she saw the tears spilling down the warrior's face. "I'm right. Please tell me I'm right."

Alex stepped back.

"Please." She felt the strength leave her as she waited for those two words. "Just say its true. Please."

Alex closed her eyes.

"Tell me! I can't be wrong. Only one person can kiss me like that. Only one person can know my soul. Only one person holds my heart and I felt something between us the moment I saw you. A touch, a glance, a smile, everything you did and said gave me a clue. Please tell me I'm not wrong?" She looked down, when she looked back up, Alex wasn't there.

Gabrielle felt hands circle her waist and closed her eyes. "Xena?" She trembled when she felt that warm breath at her ear.

"Gabrielle."

Gabrielle closed her eyes when she heard the velvet voice. "How?"

"A few gods owed me a favor."

"And what was the deal?"

"I couldn't tell you who I was."

"I had to guess."

"Yes."

Gabrielle leaned back. "I love you."

"I love you more."

"Don't ever leave me again."

"Its a deal."

Gabrielle laid her head back against Xena and let out a sigh. Her eyes flew open. "Uh oh."

"What?"

"We might have to go talk to your mother." She felt Xena laugh behind her. "What's so funny?"

"I already talked to her."

"And?"

"She knows who I am."

"Good." Her eyes closed once more. "Who else knew?"

"No one."

Gabrielle turned in her arms and let out a breath, when she saw Xena as herself. "Gods I've missed you."

"I've been here the whole time."

"I know, but its still better to have you as yourself. Your voice...." Her head moved forward to take in the smell. "...your scent..." Her eyes trailed up the form. "...your body. I missed it all. And I plan on making up for lost time."

"You didn't like Alex?"

"Not really."

"You kissed her."

Gabrielle shrugged. "That was all. It wasn't you."

"I understand. Technically it was me, you know."

Gabrielle leaned her head against Xena's chest, then pulled away to look up into those blue eyes. "Ephiny knew."

Xena smiled. "Why do you think that?"

"I usually know when something is wrong. I didn't feel that when I was told my Amazons were going to war. Why else would she want me gone?"

"Very good."

"She wanted us to be alone so I could figure it out?"

"I suggested that."

"Thank you. It worked."

"I knew it would."

"You almost left though."

"Yes I know." She pushed Gabrielle back into her chest and laid her head down on Gabrielle's. "I'm sorry."

"Its okay. I have you now."

They heard footsteps come behind them and turned to see Cyrene.

"Guess it all worked out okay, then."

"Guess so." Xena smiled.

"Well, have fun you two." She walked away to the Inn/Tavern.

Gabrielle turned her head and gasped. "Argo!"

Xena turned. "Of course. Would I ride any other?"

"She was disguised too?"

"Would be too obvious if I rode her while I was Alex?"

"True. So which god owed you a favor?"

They moved away. Xena's arm around Gabrielle, Gabrielle's around Xena.

"Well?"

"One of them, Gabrielle."

"Which one?"

"That's my secret."

"Unfair Xena."

"You think so?"

"I do."

She turned to Gabrielle with a smile on her face. "Get used to it."

THE END

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