ForevaXena's FanFic . . .

A Moment Too Late

by Sarah Miller

Disclaimer: As always, the characters of Xena: warrior princess are sole property of Universal/Renaissance pictures. Using them was for my own fun.

Violence: This story contains some mild violence.

Subtext: Yes

Chapter 1

No sound was made as a figure made her way through the thick woods. She looked left and right occasionally to perhaps see if she was being followed. She stopped as she heard a sound behind her and gripped the weapon at her side. Turning around she jumped when she saw a leather clad warrior, at a full height of six feet. Her dark hair blowing around her face as the wind blew and her eyes shining down on the younger woman in front of her.

The dark figure made no sound as she studied the woman in front of her. A small smile crept into the corners of her mouth making her look less and less threatening. She moved a step back and waited.

"How many times have I told you to never sneak up on me?"

"Do you want an accurate estimate?"

"No." The younger woman turned and continued to walk the way she was traveling.

"I got worried."

"I wasn't gone that long and besides, I think that I have proven myself able to defend myself if need be don't you." She turned to the other woman. "Xena?"

"Yes, Gabrielle, you have. I was just...."

"I know you worry but you don't need to okay." She gave her friend a reassuring pat on the arm and gave a warm smile. "Now if you don't mind, I'd like to go."

Xena didn't say a word as she watched Gabrielle walk away and eventually disappear into the darkness. She looked up at the sky to see the moon shining brightly overhead. She took one more look toward the darkness in which her friend had gone into and headed the other way.

++++++++++++++++++++
A few candle marks had passed with still no sign of Gabrielle. She knew Gabrielle liked to take long walks or long dips but there was an uneasiness that hung in the air that made her tense. She knew that if she went to Gabrielle now, she would think that she was trying to make sure she was okay. She would be right of course, but Xena knew that Gabrielle hated it whenever she did that. But whenever she tried to focus her thoughts on something else the feeling that she was being watched always returned. Giving into it was the problem.

Laying back, on her bedroll, against a tree she waited for Gabrielle.

A gentle rain had begun to fall, as Gabrielle climbed out of the water. She shivered against the wind as it began to pick up. She quickly dressed and made her way to camp.

She knew that she would run into Xena somewhere like she always did. But when she looked around, and listened, there was no Xena. Just the gentle, calm noises of the forest. She smiled to herself. 'Maybe she has finally realized that I can take care of myself.' She looked around again. 'Or maybe she is off in the dark waiting and watching to make sure I get back to camp.' A crack of a stick brought her out of her thoughts. She tilted her head to listen as Xena had taught her and heard it again. This time closer. She gripped her staff and slid into the dark to wait for whatever it was to show itself.

There was no other sounds. Waiting a bit more she let out a breath and began to relax, when she felt a hand at her shoulder. Thinking it was Xena sneaking up on her, she turned and struck a blow to the stomach. She began to let out a breath and looked up. Her face grew pale when she saw that it wasn't Xena. Instinct took over and she moved from the figure only to be grabbed back from behind. She swung her staff, making a direct hit. Where she didn't know but was sure when she heard the figure grunt. The grip he had on her was released and she took advantage of that by breaking into a run.

She didn't get far when a pair of hands grabbed her by the ankles, sending her crashing into the forest floor. She tried to get up but was kicked down. Grabbing her side, she crawled away from the figure, who's intentions were clear when he grabbed and ripped a shoulder her green shirt. She let out a scream only to have it silenced by hands around her mouth. She knew Xena wasn't far and only had to make some noise to get her attention. She raised up her head and made contact with the man's. He let go of her mouth and grabbed for his head.

Gabrielle again raised up to run, but was pushed down onto the ground. The man turned her onto her back and grabbed for her hands. She soon felt the rough texture of a rope. She again opened her mouth to let out a scream but was hit across the face.

She felt a tear slid down her cheek from the blow. The whole side of her face seemed like it was on fire. She knew that if she struggled anymore she would suffer, but she couldn't just laid back and let this man win. She had to think and had only a few moments to do so. With instinct taking over she brought her hands over her head and brought them down hard on the man's head. He grunted in pain and slapped her across the face.

She felt her skirt being raised and knew she was running out of time. She opened her mouth to scream once again but again was silenced when two hands grabbed her around the neck hard. She couldn't breath. They tightened and she felt her lungs explode from the loss of air. She tried to move the hands away but her hands were still tied and she couldn't get a good grip. She saw bright light and then nothing but blackness.
 

Chapter 2

When she opened her eyes she saw the bright light of the sun and trees overhead. She looked to her left and saw a huge tree. Looking to her right she saw a fire pit. She sat up thinking it had been all a dream when she felt a huge pain in her head and back. She sat up anyway and looked around again but saw no one in the camp. She looked down at herself and saw that her shirt was torn across the front and shoulder, her leg was badly scraped, she had a horrible headache. Other than that she seemed fine. She brought her hands to her neck and winced at the pain it inflicted. She started to stand to grab a shift when she saw Xena come into camp.

"Hey, laid back down."

"Xena what happened?"

"You were attacked."

"I know that! I mean how did you find me?"
 

Xena ignored the slight raise in Gabrielle's voice. "You were gone for a long time and I went to look for you when I saw......" She stopped.

"Oh. Did he....uh...I mean."

"No."

Gabrielle let out a breath. "That's a relief."

"He would have if I had listened to you and stayed away."

"Where is he?"

Xena moved away and grabbed a plate from a rock near the fire.

"Xena."

No answer.

"Xena, answer me. Where is he?"

"Dead. When I saw him attacking you........I'm sorry I had to." She looked toward Gabrielle.

"Its okay. Thank you for rescuing me once again." She smiled. "Now tell me. How bad do I look?"

"Fine."

"Xena."

"Well..." She moved and grabbed a plate from the saddle bags then handed it to Gabrielle. "Here look for yourself."

Gabrielle grabbed the plate and gasped. Her face was a mess. She had a huge bruise forming around her left cheek bone, a tear in her lip, another bruise on her chin, and a huge bruise on her throat. She
lowered the plate and looked at Xena. "Its bad."

"Not really. No broken bones, sprains, or any bad cuts, so I'd say your lucky. He could have done more damage." She looked at Gabrielle and raised her chin. "But I did see a cut on his cheek, and a bruise on his forehead. Was that from you?"

"Yes. He probably had a broken rib to with the way I hit him with the staff."

Xena laughed. "You're getting better. I gave you something to stop the pain."

"That would explain why I didn't feel anything." She started to laugh. "I know this isn't a laughing matter but I......."

"What?"

"I don't know."

"You were out all night."

"The bruise on my neck still hurts." She tilted her head and saw Xena bite her lip. "What is it?"

"Nothing."

"I know that look Xena. Tell me."

"That man was......he was sent to come and kill me."

Gabrielle's smile dropped. "I assume you got that out of him from your pinch. Did he tell you who sent him?"

"No. He said that he was sent a note and was told to find me and bring me back, dead or alive."

"Then why did he attack me?"

Xena started to move away when Gabrielle grabbed her arm. "What is it?"

"He knew that you were traveling with me. He was told to kill you and lure me into a trap."

Gabrielle was silent. She stole a glance at Xena and saw that she had her head hung low and was looking at the ground. "Does everyone want to use me to get to you?" She knew she wouldn't get an answer from Xena and continued. "I mean, how long is it going to take them to figure out that no matter what happens to me, you won't change. And they can't use me against you."

"Yes they can."

"I know."

"How many times are you going to get hurt because of me?"

"It wasn't your fault."

"Yes it was."

"Xena, look at me. There was nothing that you could of done that would of stopped what happened. You saved me when it counted. I will never blame you for anything. Do you understand?"

Xena nodded.

"Now, I think its time to get up and get moving, don't you think?"

"You should rest for awhile. I'll make camp."

"I'm fine Xena really." She began to roll up their bedrolls.

Xena watched as Gabrielle loaded their blankets on Argo and started on their supplies. She flipped on then the other onto Argo's back and tied them secure. "Gabrielle, I've been thinking."

"About what?"

"Its been awhile since we have visited the Amazons. We have no where to be right now, how about we head towards Amazonia."

"That sounds great. Come here and help me with this strap. I can't get it to tighten."

Xena walked over and reached for the ropes. She tied them and looked around camp to make sure that they didn't forget anything, then mounted Argo. She held out a hand for Gabrielle to grab onto and pulled it back when she saw Gabrielle's expression. "Sorry." She started Argo into a walk and saw Gabrielle follow.

Neither spoke as they headed down a small path leading toward Amazonia. Xena couldn't believe how close they were to the territory. She knew
that after Gabrielle was attacked she had to do something and knew that
decision wouldn't make either of them happy.

"Xena."

Traveling with her, Gabrielle was bound to get into another attack and next time she might not be there for her. She couldn't live with that.  Gabrielle was lucky this time. She had been badly beaten but  had lived. If she had not been there, Gabrielle would surely been raped.  The man obviously had that on the mind. She remembered walking
through the forest and hearing a shuffling of leaves and twigs. She rounded a few trees and saw the man on top of Gabrielle. One look at Gabrielle and she knew she was either dead or out cold. She hoped it was the second. Instinct took over and the man had no chance. She came on him hard and fast. He was dead in seconds. She was brought out of her thoughts when she heard her name being called.

Looking down, she saw Gabrielle looking up at her. "Hmm."

"I called your name three times. Are you okay?"

"Fine."

"You sure?"

"Yeah."

"Care to talk about it?"

"Nope." She looked away.

"Thought so," Gabrielle whispered to herself as they continued.
 

Chapter 3

The sky started to darken as they made their way into Amazon territory.  About half way, a group of women stopped them. Raising their arms, and hands in the sign of peace, one woman walked toward them. "Where are you from."

"You must me new. I'm Xena and this is Gabrielle. Your queen."

At her name being called, Gabrielle poked her head out from behind Xena and smiled.

The woman raised her mask and looked at the two curiously as she saw the huge bruises on the queen's face. "I am Tara. I'm sorry to have troubled you." She bowed slightly and moved away to let them pass, as did the other women.

Xena led them through and onto the village.

Ephiny had just sat down, when the flap of her hut was opened. She looked up angry that she had been disturbed and saw that it was Gabrielle. She stood immediately and pulled the woman into her arms.  "Its good to see you."

"You too."

"Where's Xena?"

"Outside. She's not the social type you know that."

The darkness of the room helped to hide her bruises. But when Ephiny led them outside and turned to Gabrielle she gasped. "What happened!"

"Its a long story."

"I have plenty of time."

"I was attacked."

"By who?"

"I don't know. I was in the woods and a man tried to rape me. Xena stopped him though."

"I'm sorry." She pulled Gabrielle into a hug again.

"It's okay. It's not as bad as it looks."

Xena walked up and gripped arms with Ephiny. "Ephiny."

"Glad to see you Xena."

Xena nodded and let go. "So anyone up for a match?"

Gabrielle and Ephiny laughed.

"What?"

"There are a few Amazons still in need of work over by the training grounds." Ephiny pointed the way.

"Thanks." Xena hurried off to loosen some muscles.

"She enjoys that."

"Too much. Instead of help my Amazons, she bruises them all up." She broke into another laugh.
 

Chapter 4

The night celebrating was due to the return of their queen. The music was rolling, the food was plentiful, and the dancing was everywhere.

Gabrielle sat down on a bench near the food hut and listened to the music of the night and the party. She felt the moon's light against her face and closed her eyes. A shadow loomed over her making her jump.  She opened her eyes to see Xena.

"Taking a nap?"

"No. Just relaxing."

"Mind if I join you?"

"Not at all."

Xena sat down next to her and looked up at the sky, mostly at the moon.  It's full tonight."

"Yeah. It's beautiful."

Xena nodded and looked back down. She watched Ephiny pass by with a load of food and called her name.

Ephiny turned and smiled then headed back towards them. "Sorry. I thought you were sitting over there by the fire."

"I was."

Ephiny set the trays down onto the table and excused herself to leave.

Gabrielle looked at the food on the trays and her eyes grew wide. "Wow, nut bread."

Xena laughed as Gabrielle begin to dig into the food. "I always can tell when you're not feeling well."

"Why?"

"When you refuse nut bread."

Gabrielle laughed. "That's true. I guess I must be feeling well then huh."

"Yeah." She started to stand.

"Where are you going?"

"To get something to drink. Do you want anything?"

"Cider."

Xena started to walk away.

"Wait."

"What?" She turned around.

"Can I have some port?"

"I suppose. As long as you know you're limit."

"I do."

Xena once again turned to get their drinks.

Alone, Gabrielle looked around the party and saw people laughing, dancing, eating, and just having a good time. She saw a few Amazons at a table having a food fight and at anther table saw a group having a discussion. She saw them laugh and stood to see what they were talking about.

As she drew near, they saw she was coming and hushed. "Please don't stop because of me. I just saw a discussion going on and was curious."

They didn't continue.

"Sorry to have interrupted." She turned to head back to her table when one of the Amazons spoke. "What?"

"I said please stay. We were talking about her." She pointed.

Gabrielle turned to see what she was pointing at and saw Xena. "That's Xena."

"I know. She was on the training grounds today and we were able to watch her in action. She is really impressive."

"Yes she is."

"Please sit and join us. I'm Tara, we met earlier, this is Alexa, Laina, and Terese."

Gabrielle sat and got comfortable.

"May I ask you a question?" asked Tara.

"Yes."

"Where did you get those bruises?"

"I was attacked."

"Do they hurt?"

"No."

"Sorry to pry we were just wondering."

"Its no problem. So you were talking about Xena?"

"Yes. She has a history," said Laina.

"I think she's beautiful," said Terese.

Gabrielle smiled.

"What about you Gabrielle. What do you think about her?"

"I don't know, she's my friend."

"You don't think she's attractive?"

Gabrielle turned around and looked at Xena. She had her hair down and it blew around her face. Gone was her warrior mask and armor. She still had on her leather but looked less intimidating when she let herself relax. Gabrielle had never thought about it before, but Xena was gorgeous. She felt a tap on her arm and looked around to see Tara.

"Huh."

"Well?" asked Tara.

"Well what?"

"What do you think of her?"

"She's beautiful," Gabrielle admitted.

"How can you stand traveling with her?" asked Laina.

"What do you mean?"

"You know."

Gabrielle took a breath. "I don't want to discuss this. We've all had a bit to drink."

Tara shook her head and smiled. "I don't blame you. I wouldn't want to talk with a bunch of strangers about my crush either. But you have to admit, she is breathtaking."

Gabrielle stood and waved as she walked back to Xena.

"What did they want?"

"Just wanted to talk."

"About you."

"Me."

Gabrielle began to laugh. "Just some girls with a crush on a hero." She grabbed her mug of port and took a sip. She turned to Xena. "You know their right."

"Hmm."

"You are gorgeous." She finished her mug and grabbed another one.

"That's what they were talking about."

"Yeah. They asked for my info and I told them."

"And what did they ask you?"

"I already told you."

"Ah." She finished hers and then finished her second cup. "I brought you two. That should be enough."

"What if I wanted more?"

"Out of the question. You know how you get when you're drunk."

"So."

"No."

"Xena you know that I don't have to listen to you......."

Xena looked at her young friend.

"But I will. I was just testing you."

"Had enough of this party yet?"

"No."

"How much longer do you want to stay?"

"Awhile longer. I want to dance." She turned toward Xena.

"Oh, no. I'm not going out there with you."

Gabrielle looked hurt.

"That's not what I meant. I meant that I don't want to dance."

Gabrielle started to stand.

"Where are you going?"

"To find someone to dance with." She started to walk off. "Maybe I'll get lucky," she called over her shoulder making Xena spit out her drink. Gabrielle turned toward her and smiled. "Gotcha." She continued on.

Xena shook her head and sat back to watch the party. It was then that it dawned on her what Gabrielle had said. 'You know they're right. You are gorgeous.' She shook her head and turned toward the table with the laughing Amazons. They saw her look at them and turned away. She stood up and walked toward the middle of the party. She felt the eyes of the young Amazons on her as she walked past their table.

"Xena," one called.

She turned and saw Tara. "What?"

"Would you join us?"

"No thanks, I have to do something." She started to walk off when the Amazon addressed her again.

"Please Xena. We only want to talk with you for a moment."

Xena let out a breath and walked to the table. She took a seat opposite of Tara. "So talk."

"How long are you staying?" asked Tara.

"I'm leaving day after tomorrow." She hadn't meant to say I'm but it slipped out.

"Gabrielle isn't' going with you. Why?"

"I meant we're leaving day after tomorrow."

"Oh. So tell us about yourself."

"I'm not much for talking can we get to the point."

"About what?"

"About why you invited me over here. Is something on your mind?"

"Yes. We want to know something."

"So ask."

"Are you and Gabrielle together? Lovers."

"No."

"So your available then." It was Ephiny standing behind her.

"Hi Ephiny." She turned and stood.

"Excuse me but I'm afraid I have orders to steal her away." She led Xena away from the table and into the flow of the party.

"Who ordered you, or do I not have to ask."

"Gabrielle of course. She insists that I talk you into dancing with her."

"I told her no."

"What's wrong, can't dance."

"I can, its just..."

"What? Afraid you can't trust yourself with her if you are that close?"

Xena studied her face. "Exactly."

Ephiny let out a breath and stopped. "If its that difficult why don't you ask Gabrielle."

"Ask her what?"

"How she feels."

"I can't do that."

"Why?"

"I have my reasons."

"Okay fine. But please tell me that you won't drag her around half of Greece, spoiling her chances to find someone who will love her. And who isn't afraid to admit it."

Xena watched her walk off into the crowd and let out a sigh. 'She's right you big dumb warrior. Gabrielle will find someone who will love her. She deserves better than me. My mind is made up.'  She walked toward her hut to call it a night.

Chapter 5

Gabrielle looked up as Ephiny came through the crowd. "Where's Xena?"

"She didn't feel up for a dance."

"Ephiny."

"I tried. She is stubborn. You of all people should know that."

"I do."

"I don't get you two."

"What?"

"You clearly love each other but you haven't said one word to her."

"Its not that easy."

"I know. But I wouldn't wait too long. If you do she might......."

"What?"

"Nothing. I'm going to retire for the night. I'll see you in the morning."

"Goodnight Ephiny." She watched Ephiny disappear in the crowd once more and stood to find Xena.

Covering every inch of the party she spotted their table. Xena's mug was gone and so was her chakram. She turned in the direction of Xena's hut.

Chapter 6

Xena heard a knock at wall and sat up. "Come in." She was surprised to see Gabrielle.

"Hi."

"I thought you would be off dancing."

"I went to look for you and couldn't find you so I came here."

"I was tired."

Gabrielle nodded. "I'm sorry for sending Ephiny after you. I know that was dumb."

"No, its fine."

"I just wanted to say goodnight."

"Goodnight."

Gabrielle headed for the door.

"Is that all you wanted?"

She turned and faced Xena. "Yeah."

Xena smiled and stood. "Come here." She pulled Gabrielle into a hug and held her for a while. "Tel me what's wrong."

"Nothing is wrong."

"You sure?"

"Positive." She moved from Xena and walked out of the hut.

Xena stood there watching the door and soon sat down on the bed again.  There seemed to be something that Gabrielle had on her mind but didn't want to say. She shook her head and continued to sew up the tears in Gabrielle's top.

Chapter 7

Xena woke earlier then usual. The sky had yet to lighten and the nightly sounds were still sounding as she rose and donned her leathers.  Leaving her armor and weapons aside, she walked out into the cool morning air. There were few people walking around getting ready for their daily task. It was more than she expected. Usually she was the only one up at this hour. She walked toward the stables and was met with a gentle snort from Argo.

"Morning girl." She grabbed the saddle and blanket and loaded Argo up.  "Ready for a ride?" She climbed on and headed out of the village.

+++++++++++++++++++
Morning came too early for Gabrielle. She moaned as she felt herself being shaken. Opening her eyes, she saw Ephiny. "What?"

"Wake up, you have a meeting."

That brought another groan from Gabrielle. "Can't you handle it?"

"No. Come on wake up." She pulled the covers off of Gabrielle and set them on a chair. "Now!"

Gabrielle was up in an instant when she heard that command.

"Honestly, how does Xena wake you?" She started to laugh.

"Ha ha." Gabrielle ran a comb through her hair and walked out with Ephiny.

++++++++++++++

The meeting was boring but Gabrielle managed to stay awake and answer each question with her honest opinion. She was elbowed once by Ephiny when she had started to doze off. Just when she thought it was over, a new topic was brought forth for discussion. Gabrielle gave a groan and slouched back into her chair.

"The working order is still not sufficient. If we plan on our harvest this year, we need more workers. There isn't enough hands to pick all the crops."

Gabrielle rose to a stand and looked at the woman. "Take some women off of the South gate. We aren't planning any evasion so why have them there when we need them on the field. Easy enough right."

"Right."

"Then get to it. This meeting is over." She moved from her chair and headed for the door when a woman entered the hut in front of her almost knocking her over.

"Sorry my queen." The woman rounded Gabrielle and made her way toward the elders.

Gabrielle rubbed her eyes and walked out of the hut. She was met with Ephiny soon after leaving the hut. "Any sign of Xena?"

"None. Is something wrong?"

"No not at all. I just need to speak with her."

"I'll keep looking for her."

"Thanks." She watched Ephiny walk off in search for the warrior.

Gabrielle made her way around the village, speaking to who came her way. She was surprised when she came face to face with Tara. "Tara, good morning."

"Good morning my queen. Did you sleep well?"

"Yes I did, thank you."

"I must excuse myself for last night. I was drunk and didn't realize what I was saying."

"Its quite alright."

"Thank you." Tara rushed off in the opposite direction.

"Where are you Xena?"

Chapter 8

Xena moved from the stream and grabbed her leathers. She was about to slid them on when she heard a noise in the bushes. Grabbing her leathers, she made her way around the intruder.

Coming up behind, she grabbed for their throat. She heard a gasp and her eyes went wide. "Ephiny!"

"I'm sorry I snuck up on you."

"Its okay." She finished with her leathers and walked toward the village with Ephiny. "Why are you out here?"

"One guess."

"Gabrielle."

"She was worried. She wanted me to come and look for you. I think she's scared that you are going to leave her." She stopped and looked at Xena. "Does she have a reason to be scared, Xena?"

"No why should she."

"I don't know, why don't you tell me."

"Come one we had better get back."

"Xena."

"What?"

"Nothing." They continued walking to the village.

+++++++++++++

Gabrielle gave up on finding Xena and headed toward the bathing pools.

She had just began to relax in the warm water when she heard someone come up behind her. Turning around quickly she spotted Xena. "Where have you been all morning?" She turned back around.

"I took Argo for a morning ride."

"Did you have to stay come all morning?"

"I needed some time to myself. You know how it is."

"Yes I do." She sighed. "You should join me in taking one of these.  They are great way to relax."

"Maybe later."

Gabrielle turned around. "Is something wrong?"

"No."

"Sure?"

Xena hesitated for a minute before saying, "Yeah."

"I had a meeting today."

"One of those huh."

"Yeah. Boring. I almost fell asleep. Well actually I did once." She heard a chuckle from Xena. "Can you hand me my robe please?"

"Sure." She rose and grabbed the robe. Walking to the pool, she waited for Gabrielle to stand. She watched the blonde raise, water running down her sides, down the length of her body. She caught her breath and closed her eyes. Slipping the robe into Gabrielle's arms, she moved away while Gabrielle stepped out of the water. She quickly changed her expression and waited as Gabrielle tied her robe together.

"Walk with me."

"Aren't we demanding today."

"Sorry. I get so used to dealing with the Amazons that I forget. You need to remind me."

"Don't worry I will." She gave a warm smile.

"How long are we staying?"

"As long as you want."

Gabrielle knew something was up now. Xena usually had a length they went by whenever they got off the road. She knew that Xena never stayed anywhere more than three days. They were on two now. She shrugged it off and continued walking.

"How are the bruises?"

"Better."

"And your leg?"

"Its healing nicely, thanks to you."

"You're welcome."

"Xena," someone called.

They both turned to see Tara walking towards them. "Ephiny told me to bring you to the training ground."

"Why?"

"Why do you think Xena?" asked Gabrielle. "She wants to see you beat the stuffing out of more of her Amazons." She gave a laugh.

"Tell her I'll be there in a minute."

Tara ran toward the grounds.

Xena turned towards Gabrielle.

"Go on, I'll be here when you get back."

Xena took off.

Ephiny smiled as she saw Xena walking up to her. "I have some worthy opponents for you Xena. Maybe this time you'll lose."

"Never Ephiny." She was thrown a sword and stretched for the match.

+++++++++++++

Gabrielle dressed in her usual clothing. It was a bit snug from the patches, but she didn't matter. She grabbed her staff and headed towards the grounds.

She waved to who she saw and greeted those who said hi, but her attention was fully on the fast moving warrior on the training grounds, beating the stuffing out of a young Amazon. Gabrielle smiled to herself and gripped her staff firmly as she made her way there.

She was just in time to hear the young Amazon say 'I give.' "Why don't you pick on someone your own size?"

"Short on competition."

"I'll spar with you."

"Are you sure you're up for it?"

"Oh yeah. What a great way to stretch out the muscles huh."

"Okay." She grabbed a staff and swung it for Gabrielle's head.  Gabrielle ducked and missed another blow to her midsection. She twirled her staff and turned hitting Xena across the back. Gabrielle jumped as Xena tried to swipe her legs from under her. She ducked again as a blow was swung overhead and stepped back to miss another blow to her legs.  Gabrielle had faked a blow to Xena's stomach and took a sweep at her legs which was blocked. Gabrielle rolled on the ground and swept at Xena's legs almost making contact. Xena jumped overhead, war cry ringing loud, and flipped to land behind Gabrielle. She moved out of the way as a blow came to her head. Gabrielle smiled as she almost had Xena. She grabbed her staff and smashed it into Xena's. They held that position for a few minutes. Neither wanted to give it. Soon Gabrielle let go and rolled under Xena's legs. She brought an elbow up, connecting with Xena's tailbone. Xena flipped backwards as Gabrielle was trying to stand and pushed her back onto the ground.

Straddling her waist, Xena smiled as she asked, "You give up?"

"No."

"No?"

Gabrielle brought her staff up and connected with the side of Xena's shoulder. It obviously had an effect. Xena winced and grabbed the staff out of Gabrielle's hands. "Well done." She stood up off of Gabrielle and helped her to stand.

The crowd that had formed around them cheered and clapped. Gabrielle laughed to herself as she walked away from Xena and into the village.  She turned around and saw Xena deep in a fight with another Amazon.  She had to give herself praise. She had almost beat Xena. If not for that woman's skilled moves she would have. She walked to the food hut to get something to eat.

Chapter 9

From the food hut, Gabrielle could just make out the grounds. She watched Xena beat one after another. No one was even close to beating her. She moved around so swiftly, catching them off guard at times and they never saw a move coming till it was too late. She knew why she liked to watch Xena fight but didn't want to admit it. She loved the way her muscles moved as she struck, the way her hair blew around her face when she twirled, and the way she gave a smile when she finished off with a warrior. She knew Xena loved to fight to get excess energy down. She had spent a number of nights watching the warrior pace back and forth across the camp trying to get rid of some of that excess energy.

With a sigh she turned back to her cider and felt someone come up behind her. She didn't have time to turn, Ephiny plopped right down in front of her.

"My don't we look happy today."

"Hi Ephiny."

"Come on the meeting wasn't that bad."

"No, its not that. I just have some things on my mind right now."

Ephiny turned around and saw what Gabrielle had been looking at for the past half hour. It was Xena at the training grounds. "Oh, I see. Things on your mind. With her on the brain there isn't room for anything else is there?"

Gabrielle smiled and looked down.

Ephiny lifted her chin. "Okay, what's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Something is."

"Like I said, I just have things on my mind right now."

"It helps to talk about them."

"You're beginning to sound like Xena."

"Maybe she's right."

"No she isn't. It doesn't help to talk when she doesn't want to talk about what's on her mind."

"Oh, so that's what this is about."

"Never mind." She rose to stand but was pulled back down. "Let me go."

"Where? To find Xena. To hide in the corner watching. Why don't you
talk to her?"

"Its not that easy."

"Why not?"

"You know how she is."

"Tell me."

"I can't."

Ephiny let go of her arm. "I'm here if you change your mind and need to talk."

"Thank you." She left the food hut.

++++++++++

Walking didn't help clear her mind any better. All it did was gave her new things to think about.

Somehow she found herself walking towards the grounds. There was no action going on. No fighting. She guessed that everyone was either taking a break or Xena ran out of opponents. Walking closer she caught Xena's eye and gave a slight smile. It was returned and Xena stood to walk towards her.

"Hey."

"I brought you some sugar dates."

"Nah, no thanks."

"Xena, I know your sweet tooth is as bad as mine."

Xena smiled and gladly excepted one out of the small pouch. "Mmm, thanks."

"Your welcome. I hope you didn't hurt them too bad?" She scanned the area to see Amazons nursing hurt arms or legs, or even heads.

"Nothing that they didn't ask for."

"Thanks for taking it easy on me."

"Taking it easy. You almost knocked me down."

Gabrielle smiled. "I did, didn't I?"

"Yeah. You're getting better with that thing."

"I had a great teacher. Maybe I'll tell her about you and she can train you." She laughed.

"Good one."

"So are you done here or are there more that want to get hurt?"

"I'm done."

"Good, take a walk with me please." She led the way from the grounds, with Xena close behind.

They were soon out of the village and walking along the river.

"Something on your mind?"

"No why?"

"Usually these walks are to talk."

"Oh."

"So?"

Gabrielle stopped and turned to Xena. "I have....are....are you leaving?"

"Why?"

"You seem tense lately. You keep yourself active and usually away from me."

"I'm here now."

"Yes."

"But."

"But I want to know if you are. Please don't lie to me. I couldn't take it."

Xena turned away. "I'm not."

"Then why won't you look at me?"

Xena turned towards the bard and Gabrielle could see an outline of tears lining her eyes. "I'm right aren't I?"

Xena didn't say a word.

Gabrielle could feel the tears form in her own eyes. "Why?"

"I could tell you a number of reasons. Which do you prefer?" She tried to make a joke and even smiled, but Gabrielle would have none of it and kept a straight face. "When you got hurt, I thought for sure I had lost you. You were beat bad, but when I found out that you were alive, I felt so relieved. It kills me to know that it was my fault............."

"It wasn't."

"Please let me finish. He was hired to kill me, but you got in the way.  It was my fault even if I didn't strike the blow. He could of killed you. I knew then that I would die if I lost you again. You died once on me. I couldn't take it again and I can't now. I can't lose you."

"Then why are you leaving me?"

"The Amazons will protect you. I know that. They would give their lives up to save yours. I'm positive of that. But I can't live with the fact that one day I could get you killed."

"But I......"

"I'll visit you whenever I'm in the area. I promise."

Tears fell freely from Gabrielle's eyes. "What makes you think that I'll stay?"

"I was thinking about that. You will because I want you to. I never asked for anything before but I'm asking now. Will you stay here?"

"No."

"Gabrielle."

"No Xena. I'm not one of your things you can just abandon, I'm living flesh and I want to be with you."

"I told you why I can't ."

"I can't believe it. After all these years and after all that we've been through, you still treat me like a child."

"No I don't."

"You do. When are you going to face it Xena. I'm old enough to know what's good for me and what's not. I'm even old enough to make decisions."

"Gabrielle listen to me."

"No you listen to me Xena. I'm a grown woman who can make her own choices. I chose to follow you on my own. I knew the consequences of that choice but I stayed with it. I didn't leave you so why are you leaving me?"

Xena turned and rubbed her temples. "Look, my mind is made up." She started to walk away.

"You always decide things don't you. When are you going to decide to realize that I'm in love with you."

That stopped Xena dead in her tracks. She turned around. "What?"

"You heard me."

Xena just stood there dumbfounded. Didn't know what to think or do.  She just turned back around and kept walking away.

Chapter 10

She knew she didn't mean to say it but it just came out. When she watched Xena walk away she slumped to the ground and sobbed.

She had never felt so hurt and alone. The woman she thought to be her best friend was leaving her. She wasn't given a choice she was just dropped off like some puppy dog. And to make matters worse, she had told Xena how she really felt. "Oh, I'm such an idiot. Why did I do it.  Its not like its going to make her stay." She threw her head back against a tree. "Ow."

+++++++++++++++

Xena made her way toward the village. With one quick trip to her hut, she headed for the stables to get Argo. She didn't want to talk with anyone and hoped that Ephiny wasn't in the barn. She had no idea how she would explain things to her. Her heart was breaking. She wanted to run to Gabrielle, sweep her up into her arms and hold her. She felt overjoyed that Gabrielle loved her. She wasn't sure when she started to love the bard, but knew all too well that she did. She hadn't expected that love to be returned but now here it was and what was she doing, she was running from it.

She knew that Gabrielle deserved better than a used up old warlord. She wiped a tear from her cheek and saddled Argo, then rode out of the barn without a word.

++++++++++++++++++

Ephiny watched the warrior ride out of town alone and looked around for Gabrielle. She had watched the pair walk into the woods to take a walk and saw Xena running out. She held her breath when she didn't see Gabrielle behind.

She walked into the woods and looked around for her. Seeing her not far ahead, she called her name. She got no answer and tried again, and again got no answer.

Kneeling down next to the small blonde, she smoothed the hair out of her face and saw her open her eyes. "Hey." She saw the puffy eyes and knew that Gabrielle had been crying.

Gabrielle was silent.

"Want to tell me what happened?"

Gabrielle shook her head.

"Okay then. Come on." She helped Gabrielle to stand and led her out of the woods.

Coming to her hut, she let go of Gabrielle's arm and gave her some space. "You okay from here or do you want me to stay?"

"I'm fine, I just need some time alone for now."

Ephiny nodded and gave Gabrielle a pat on the arm, then walked off.

Gabrielle entered the hut and looked around. She walked to the bed and knelt down, raising the covers. Underneath, she the item she was looking for and pulled it out. The chakram gleamed in the noon light as she raised it up. "Can't go anywhere without this little thing." She smiled and walked out of the hut, chakram in hand.

She met Ephiny as soon as she exited. "What?" She looked down at what she was looking at and smiled as she saw it was the chakrum.

"How did you get that?"

"I knew something was up. I knew she would leave. She can't leave without this right. She has to come back for it. And when she does, I won't let her leave."

"How can you stop her?"

"I have my ways."

Ephiny shook her head and ran a finger over the edge of the blade.  "Sharp, don't cut yourself."

"I won't. I've handled it before. Don't worry."

Ephiny smiled and walked off.

++++++++++++++++

As the night drew near, Xena stopped to make camp. She was sure that she was far enough away from the village to be detected. She kept Argo saddled and laid out her bedroll. "Sorry girl, but I got a feeling we're not alone." She patted the mare's neck and rubbed behind her ears.

Sitting down, she took off her armor and greaves, unlaced her sheath, and reached for her chakrum. It wasn't there. She looked down and around the camp. "Did I drop it?" She stopped looking around and smiled as she shook her head. "Clever girl." She laughed as she took in a breath. "You knew that was the only way I'd come back. But I won't."  She laid down and fell asleep.

Chapter 11

The morning came with still now sign of Xena. Gabrielle spotted Ephiny exiting her hut and walked over to her. "Nothing?"

"Nothing. She's smarter then you think. She knows you have it and want her to come back."

"I had to think fast. She was on the training grounds and I had to grab it. I knew she would leave."

"How did you know?"

"I just did."

"So what happened between you too?"

"She told me that she was leaving I asked her why, and we got in a huge fight. I tried to explain to her that I was mature enough to know what I wanted and that she should realize that I'm in love with her."

"You told her you love her."

"It kinda slipped out."

"Well if you told her that, why did she still leave?"

"I guess because she doesn't love me like that."

"No, that can't be it. I've seen you two together, I know she loves you."

"Then why?"

"What did she say?"

"That it was her fault that I got attacked and she wanted to make sure I was taken care of so she was leaving me here."

"Hmm."

"What?"

"Nothing."

"So what now?"

"She headed towards east, so I guess we either wait or go after her."

"East." Gabrielle gasped.

"What?"

"Amphipolis is east. She's going home. We may be able to stop her. Or at least meet her there."

"I'll get the horses." Ephiny ran off.

"Horses!"

Soon they were saddled and heading towards Amphipolis.

"Gabrielle."

"Hmm."

"What was her reaction when you told her that you were in love with her?"

"She stopped walking away from me and turned around."

"Then?"

"She asked me what I said and I told her. She turned and walked away."

"Oh. I saw her running out of the woods. I was just wandering."

"Do you think I did the wrong thing in telling her?"

"Not at all. I think you did the right thing. It obviously had an effect on her if she stopped and turned around. But tell me, what were her eyes like?"

"They held........fear."

"Fear?"

"Yeah."

The rest of the ride was done in silence. Before morning, they were closing in on Amphipolis. Taking a break to rest themselves and their steeds, Gabrielle walked through the trees to find a place to camp, while Ephiny let the horses to a stream.

"Ephiny, come here!"

Ephiny ran to Gabrielle. "What is it?"

"Look." She pointed to the ground. A few footprints were left, and horse tracks. Along with a few rags. The hoof tracks were Argo leaving the others to be Xena. "She was here."

"No fire."

"She didn't want to be detected."

"You know her well."

"We've had to spend a few nights without a fire."

"Oh. Well she couldn't be far, lets keep going." She left to fetch the horses while Gabrielle stayed at the camp.

Gabrielle rounded the prints, stepping in one to judge the size to confirm it was Xena. She knew the boot print but had to make sure. With it being a size larger than hers she smiled and looked around the camp for anything else that might have been left behind. She bent over and picked up a piece of a rag. It was obviously Xena's sword rag. She must have forgotten it when she was in a hurry to get going.

"Oh Xena. Have I scared you that much that you would just leave your most prized weapon to not have to see me again?" She sighed.

Ephiny came into camp holding the reins. "When we do meet up with Xena, she'll be pleased to know that you have forgotten your fears of horses.  For now anyway. What is it?" She noticed the pained expression on Gabrielle's face.

"I just can't believe that she would just leave like that. Did I do something to make her leave?"

"No. I saw you together. You are an impossible couple. You are both stubborn. I thought you would be together forever. Things change huh."

"Yeah." Gabrielle stuffed the rag into her shirt and climbed onto the horse. "Lets get this over with."

They rode off towards Amphipolis.

Chapter 12

The town came closer with each mile and soon Xena had reached her mothers tavern. She unsaddled Argo and headed for it. Entering she looked around for her mother but couldn't see her anywhere. She didn't know why she had come her she just knew that she had to talk with her mother. When she found out what she did, her mother would definitely scold her but she was going to tell her anyway. She entered the kitchen and saw her mother over a pot.

"You know they say steam is great for you skin."

Her mother turned toward the source of the voice and smiled as she headed for her daughter and pulled her into a hug. "Xena. Its so good to see you."

"Great to see you too mother."

Cyrene looked around her daughter and scrunched her eyebrows.  "Where's Gabrielle?"

"With the Amazons."

"Oh."

"Mother we need to talk."

"Sure Xena." She guided Xena to a table near the back door and sat down. "Talk."

"I have done something and I need to know what you think. I know you won't like it but I need to tell you."

"What is it?"

"Gabrielle won't be following me anymore."

"Why not? Did you two have a fight?"

"I guess you could say that."

"Come little one. Tell me what happened."

"A few days ago, Gabrielle was attacked."

"Oh my. Was she hurt?"

"Yes. Not bad. A few bruises her and there. The man that attacked her was after me. She just got in the way."

"And you left her because."

"She got hurt because of me."

"It wasn't your fault."

"That's what she said."

"Well."

"The truth of the matter is that it was my fault."

"What?"

"If she wasn't traveling with me then the man wouldn't of attacked her."

"Oh Xena. Surely you didn't leave her to protect her."

"I did. She will be safe at the Amazon village."

"What else is wrong?"

"Nothing."

"I know when something is troubling you."

"I can't stay here long."

"Why?"

"I'm being followed."

"By whom?"

"Gabrielle."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah."

"How do you know?"

"Believe me I do."

"Okay."

Xena gave her mother a hug and headed out the door.

"Xena."

"What?"

"If you love her like she loves you, let her make the decision."

Xena turned. "What?"

"You know what I mean." She stood and continued to toy with the stew.  "Don't wait too long or it may be too late."

Xena rushed out the door and almost knocked down her brother.

"Hey, where's the fire?"

"Sorry Toris, I can't talk." She tried to get past him but he held a strong grip on her arm.

"What?"

"I want to know what's wrong?"

"Just let me go."

"No."

She gave him a glare.

"That's not going to work on me Xena." He dragged her over to a bench and made her sit down next to him. "Now tell me what's going on."

"I'd rather not."

"Well dear sister you don't have a choice."

"Excuse me." Her temper was rising fast.

"I mean it. You can control people on the road but not me. Now go on, I'm listening."

Xena shook her head. "We really are blood aren't we?"

"Yeah."

Xena took a deep breath. "I left Gabrielle."

"Why?"

"To keep her safe."

"Against what?"

"Me."

"You?"

"Its a long story and I don't want to talk about it. I need to get going. Mother knows the story ask her."

"I don't want to ask her. I asked you." His temper was rising too.

"Toris don't do this."

"Why? Are you expecting someone? Gabrielle on her way?"

"As a matter of fact yes. She's tailing me."

"Then she'll find you won't she."

"Not here." She pulled her arm away and tried to stand but was forced back down. "Toris stop this!"

"You wanna hit me go ahead. But I'm not letting you ruin what a great thing you have with her."

She was close to knocking him down but stopped herself when a figure entered the village. Panic seized Xena when she saw the figure raise the hood. It was Gabrielle. Ephiny soon came into view. "I have to go."  She yanked her arm away fast and hard, Toris didn't have a chance to grip it harder. She disappeared just as Gabrielle looked their way.

Toris turned to see what had spooked his sister and saw Gabrielle walking toward him. He waved.

She sat down at the table. "Have you seen...."

"Went that way." He pointed towards the stables and she took off running with a thank you thrown over her shoulder.

Xena jumped as the stable doors crashed open. She saw Gabrielle and hopped up onto Argo.

"Oh no you don't." She ran to her and stood in her path. "You go, you run over me to do it."

Xena glared at her as she tried to move around.

Gabrielle knew that she only had one way to stop Xena. Gathering all her strength she lifted up and grabbing Xena's arm, she pulled her off of the saddle. Xena squirmed knocking them to the floor.

Gabrielle never knew she had so much strength when she was angry. She rolled over on top of Xena and pinned her arms above her head. "There.  Now where are you gonna go?"

"You know I can just throw you off."

"Yes, but you won't."

"Don't be too sure about that." She brought her leg up to flip Gabrielle over when Gabrielle brought her lips to Xena's.

Xena instantly dropped her leg and looked up at Gabrielle when she pulled back.

Neither said a word for a few minutes till Gabrielle broke the silence.  "If you're leaving. Let me have one chance to be with you. Even if its only for the night. Please. I need you."

Xena felt a tear hit her chest as Gabrielle began to cry. "Why do we do this? Why?"

"You tell me."

"I love you."

"I know."

"And you love me."

"I do."

"Now what?"

"Now you answer my plea. Yes or no."

"One night?"

"One night. That's all I want if you are going to leave me. So I can say that I have at least felt your touch. And felt that you loved me."

"How about eternity?"

Gabrielle beamed. "You mean it? You're not just saying that so I'll get off and then run are you?"

"No. Now can I have my arms please?" She felt Gabrielle loosen them and flipped them over so she was over Gabrielle. "My turn." She closed the distance between them with a kiss. Forgiveness was found in the simple kiss and eternity was sealed. She caressed Gabrielle's lower lip with her tongue and slid it in. 'She tastes so sweet.' "Gabrielle."

"Hmm."

"Have you been eating the dates?"

"Yes."

"Mmm." She covered her lips once more. The kiss intensified and Xena found a hand caressing her left breast. When the hand covered it and squeezed, she let a groan pass her lips. "Don't start something that we can't finish."

"I'm not. I truly have every idea of finishing this."

"Good." Xena felt Gabrielle raise her legs and she slid in between them.

When legs wrapped around her waist, Xena trailed small kisses along Gabrielle's throat.

Neither one could stop the passion that flowed between them and soon had the barn echoing with their cries of passion.

Chapter 13

Toris looked toward the barn just in time to see both Xena and Gabrielle exit together.  He stood and walked towards them. "So, everything get settled?"

"I guess you could say that," said Xena as she gave a warm smile.  "Sorry about earlier."

"Its okay. I've put up with much more from you and still stayed." He winked at them as he turned and walked towards the tavern to tell mother the news.

Xena turned towards Gabrielle and smiled. "I know you can't forgive me for what happened. But I am truly sorry. I just wanted you to be safe."

"I know. But you need to stop that. I'm not going anywhere and I'm not going to break."

"I know." She pulled Gabrielle close and rested her chin on the blonde's head.

They both looked up to see Ephiny walk toward them. "So?"

"Everything is fine now."

"You sure?"

"Yeah. We had a talk." She blushed and Ephiny knew instantly what kind of talk they had.

"Oh, I see." She gave a laugh. "So are you coming back with me?"

"No. We'll stay here for awhile. Thank you for helping me with this Ephiny."

"No problem. What are friends for?" She pulled Gabrielle into a hug and walked away.

Cyrene walked up to them and pulled them both into a hug. "I'm glad for both of you." She hit them on the back of the head.

It was definitely unexpected. Both Xena and Gabrielle said "hey" in unison.

"You deserved it for making me worry like that. Both of you."

They smiled and shook their head.

"Welcome to the family." She pulled Gabrielle into another hug and kissed the top of her head. "Now, lunch is on. Who's hungry?"

Gabrielle's stomach growled in reply sending them all into fits of laughter.

Chapter 14

"You know we almost blew it back there."

"I do."

"And Xena, you know we almost lost each other."

"I do."

"I guess I just told you how I felt a moment too late."

Xena smiled and pulled Gabrielle to her as they sat back and watched the sun slowly sink behind the hills.

THE END

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