ForevaXena's FanFic . . .

Certain Skills

by Sarah Miller

Disclaimer:  I think by now that everyone knows who belongs to who so I don't have to go through all that do I?

Sex/Subtext/Violence: Yeah definitely ALT material here.

Plot:  mostly about Xena going undercover as a slaver and Gabrielle is her prize servant. Xena soon realizes something about Gabrielle as she watches her dance and turn on her charm. For the slavers or the warrior princess?  Another problem for XENA  and a new story by me, Sarah Miller. *Enjoy!!!!
 

PART 1

***
"Will you stop? My legs are about to fall off." Gabrielle lowered herself onto the path, rubbing her feet.

Xena grunted, stopped, and turned around. "Gabrielle."

"Xena." Gabrielle shook her head and looked away. "Look! Blisters!" She touched one. "Ow."

"Give me a break."

Gabrielle looked up and glared at the warrior. "Hey, just because you can walk across half of Greece without stopping, doesn't mean that we all can. If you are in such a hurry, then go on without me." She looked up to see Xena lean against a tree. "Go."

"I'm not leaving you."

"Then I'd say you've got a problem, because I can't follow with the pace you set."

"Fine, then I'll slow down."

"It would be easier if we had Argo."

"Are you saying that you would actually volunteer to ride her."

"Yes. Better then walking."

"Well, if we don't get there, we won't have her, will we?"

"Hey, don't start with me."

"You started this."

"I started this?" Gabrielle stood up and walked to Xena. "I started this? If I recall it was you who ordered us to go get your horse."

"Fine, so its my fault. Satisfied?"

"No." She sat back down. "I'm hungry, tired, and grouchy."

"That's for sure."

Gabrielle looked up and glared at her. Xena turned and started pacing.

"Stop that."

"Then lets go."

"But my feet."

"What? You want me to carry you?"

Gabrielle looked up hopeful. "Would you?"

"No." Xena shook her head and thought about it. "No." She leaned against the tree again.

"I'm sorry Xena, my feet just can't handle this."

"Maybe its the new shoes."

"Could be. The old ones worked fine." She looked around. "But of course those were ruined when a certain warrior used them as target practice."

"Hey, you asked for it."

"I did not!"

"Oh? I remember a certain bard saying, 'Gee Xena, if you think you are so good, then try and hit my boots over there'."

"Yeah well......so?"

Xena smiled. "Can we go now?"

***
The campfire covered the two women in a soft orange glow, giving off shadows that danced across the trees.

Xena looked over at Gabrielle who was sitting next to the fire, on a log. She noticed Gabrielle favoring her shoulder, wincing when she moved her arms. "You okay?"

Gabrielle looked up. "Fine, just a little sore."

"Want me to rub your shoulders?"

"Yeah?"

"Yeah." She stood and sat behind the small woman. Moving her hair off her back, she moved her hands to her shoulders. She heard a groan from Gabrielle as she hit a sore muscle. "There?" She saw  Gabrielle nod and pressed harder against the stiff muscles. "Just relax."

Gabrielle was having a hard time breathing let alone relaxing. All she felt was those strong, soft hands working their way down her shoulders. She grunted her approval when some of the stiffness was loosened. "That's great, right there." She let her head fall forward as she closed her eyes. "This is what I needed, thanks."

"My pleasure."

Gabrielle heard the slight purr to Xena's voice but ignored it, figuring she was reading too much into the situation. She knew she was dreaming when she felt soft lips at her shoulder, and her eyes opened immediately. She waited. Nothing came. Perhaps she had drifted off and had imagined it. No, it came again, a little higher. She held her breath as another one was felt. "X..."

The sounds of shouting broke her off. They both stood and turned towards the noise to see a bunch of people running towards them.

A man collapsed at their feet and the others tried to help him up.

Xena stepped forward. "What is it?"

"Our....village....i....is...un...under....attack." He fell down, passed out.

Xena turned to Gabrielle, who only shrugged. Turning back to the people, she took a breath. "What village?"

A woman about Gabrielle's age looked up. "North of here. Patrae."

"I'll go help. You stay here and rest. My friend Gabrielle will....."

"Oh no." Gabrielle held up her hands. "I'm going."

"Your staying."

"Going."

"Staying."

With each word, they stepped one step closer to each other until they were a breath away.

Gabrielle raised her chin. "Going."

"I'm not going to argue with you."

"I know because I'm going."

"I'm not winning on this am I?"

"Not today." She smiled. "Going?"

"Could I stop you?"

"No."

"It may be dangerous."

"Always is." She licked her lips. "And when everything is all taken care of, we'll talk."

"About what?"

Gabrielle smirked and walked to the sitting women and children.

Xena shook her head as she rubbed her chin. "Yeah sure."

***
The next day found them half way there.

"Xena."

"Hmm."

"Ever been there?"

"Patrae?"

"Mmm hmm."

"I don't remember going there but its near Corinth so perhaps I have."

"Who do you suppose is up to the attack?"

"I don't know Gabrielle."

"Can we stop?"

"To eat?"

Gabrielle looked up at her. "Yeah." She bit her lips and winked.

What are you up to? Xena led them off the path, into the trees. "We haven't much time though."

"Great place to stop. Look."

Xena looked up to see the small water fall and a cute little pond that from the looks of it seemed heated. "Yeah, lovely." She returned to finding the food out of their bag.

"Sometimes I wonder why I even bother."

Xena looked over at her. "What?"

Gabrielle shrugged and shook her head. "Nothing."

Xena raised up to standing position. "No, I heard you say something."

"Drop it Xena."

"I won't." She walked closer.

A smiled tugged at the corners of Gabrielle's lips. "My aren't we in a great mood."

Xena eyed her suspiciously. "What are you up to?"

"What makes you think I'm up to something?"

Xena held her gaze for a bit longer then turned and continued to dig in the bag.

Gabrielle smiled wide and scrunched up her nose. I'm loving this. She ran her fingers through her hair and turned to look at the small pond.

Xena rose from the bag and turned, looking down at the food in her hands. "Okay, we have some jerky, cheese, and some...." She looked up to see that Gabrielle was gone. "Interesting." She turned to see clothes on the grass near the water. Walking to them, a head popped up from the water. "Early dip?"

"Yeah. Come in."

"No."

"Aw Xena. Its warm and very relaxing."

"I'm sure it is, but I'll pass. Now get over here and eat, so we can get going. I wanna get there by nightfall." She turned and walked away.

Dense I swear it. If she notices one thing she doesn't the next. Perhaps I'll just have to try harder. Or I could bring up the massage. I'm sure she kissed my shoulder, not once but three times, if I'm right. She turned to the camp to see Xena bent over, searching for something. The leather straps bearly concealed the shapely behind. That is totally not fair. She looked again. Then again, maybe its not so bad. She giggled and moved out of the water.

Xena held out the divided portion. "Here. Eat fast."

"Sure thing Xena." She sat down on the ground and crossed her legs at the ankles as she leaned back against the tree. "Oh its hot today." She leaned her head back against the tree and grabbed for the water skin. Opening it up, she poured some onto her face.

Xena couldn't help but watch as a few drops ran down her chest, disappearing under the shirt.

Gabrielle heard a light groan and opened her eyes to see Xena's closed. Working perfectly.

Xena looked up and watched Gabrielle eat her food. Slowly and..... Seductively? If I didn't know any better, I'd say Gabrielle is trying to seduce me. She laughed. "Yeah right."

"What?" Gabrielle looked up.

Xena opened her mouth then closed it. Shaking her head she said, "Never mind."

Gabrielle smiled as Xena looked away. Get her attention, check. "I'm done if you want to go."

Xena wrapped up her unfinished half and slid it into the bag. "Lets go."

Gabrielle watched Xena walk ahead and then followed after her.

***
They reached a large village by nightfall as Xena had said. The village, Patrae.

Gabrielle looked around to see people shuffling about. "Doesn't look like its been attacked to me." She turned to Xena to see her making her survey of the village as well. "Xena."

She turned. "You're right."

"So, now what?"

"Don't know. Perhaps they were informed of an attack." She grabbed the arm of a passing child. "What is the name of this village?"

"Patrae." He rushed off.

Xena stood. "I guess this is it. Lets get rooms then meet back at the tavern." She looked around. "Wherever that is."

"How about we go together? I'm not getting lost in this place."

"Good idea."

They walked to the inn.

The barkeep eyed them as they entered. "What can I get you?"

"Rooms, and baths."

He nodded. "Six dinars."

Gabrielle raised her eyebrows. "That's cheap."

The man smiled. "No need to charge much. You girl won't cause any trouble will you?" His smile didn't fade.

"No, we won't cause trouble." Gabrielle smirked.

Handing her the keys, he said, "Rooms 4 & 6."

Gabrielle paid the man then headed off toward the back. "Rooms 4 & 6." She reached her door and opened it.

"How's it look?"

Gabrielle smiled. "Good. No bad smells, no dirt..." She smiled as she turned. "Yours?"

Xena shrugged and opened her door to see a large tub in the middle of the room. "Oh definitely nice."

Gabrielle popped her head in and glared. "Look at that tub." She smiled up at the warrior. "Wanna trade?"

"No." She stepped into the room and walked to the tub. It was huge.

Gabrielle looked in it too. "Looks like you are sharing."

"Room?"

"Bath. But if you want to share the room, fine. I'll share mine." She smiled.

"Ha ha, funny." She sat down at the edge of the tub.

Gabrielle noticed her look. "What is it?"

"Something isn't right here."

"You feel that too, huh?"

"Yeah."

"Don't worry, whatever it is, you can handle it."

"Oh? What happened to we?"

"Hey, you get in trouble, I get your room?" She laughed and noticed that the look didn't fade from Xena's face. "You okay?"

"No."

"What do you think is wrong then?"

"That's just the thing, I don't know."

"Hmm." She sat down next to her. "So, can we get some hot water?"

Xena looked up and smiled at Gabrielle's quickness to change the subject. "Yes. Go tell him we want water."

"You saying that you'll share your tub?" She raised her eye brows suggestively.

"Gabrielle..."

"What?" She smiled innocently.

"Nothing."

"Sure?"

"Yeah." She looked around the room.

"Okay, I'll go get the water."

Xena stood and started to unhook her armor.

"Hey, that's my job."

"Well your job right now is to get the water."

Gabrielle stuck out her tongue as she exited.

Xena shook her head and smiled.

***
"We need water."

He snapped his fingers and a boy came running. "Water."

The boy nodded and ran off.

Gabrielle turned to the man again. "Has there been any problems here?"

"What do you mean?"

"Its been a normal week?"

"Yeah. Why?"

She smiled. "No reason." Walking up the stairs she heard the boy follow her.

Xena stood just as the door opened and watched as the boy and a few others filled the tub with hot water. They left and Xena sat down.

Gabrielle started to unlace her shirt, making sure she wasn't facing Xena.

Xena looked up to see the shirt fall and a bare back. She stood and walked to Gabrielle but turned and sat down on the tub.

Gabrielle smiled and slid her skirt down her body, bending over as she did, giving Xena a real good view.

"Okay, what are you up to?"

Gabrielle didn't turn. "What?"

"Why are you acting like this?"

"Like what?" She grabbed a robe and slid it on as she turned. "Like what, Xena?"

Xena stood and walked to her. "I'm the master of seduction. Used my body as a weapon, Gabrielle. I think I would notice an act of it when I saw it." She gave that 'Tell me what you're up to or else' look. "I'm waiting."

Gabrielle smiled. "I should of known you'd notice." She blushed. "I was trying to see if you would notice me."

"I see."

Gabrielle stepped closer to her. "Now, can I ask you a question?"

"Maybe."

"What happened during the massage?"

"The massage?"

"Yes."

Xena thought back. "Oh."

"Well?" She noticed that Xena wasn't talking. "You kissed my shoulder, Xena. Care to explain yourself."

"I got carried away."

"Oh?"

"Yeah. Drop it."

Gabrielle dropped the robe.

"That's not what I meant."

Gabrielle laughed. "I know, but you shoulda seen the look on your face."

"You think that's funny?"

"I do believe so yes."

"Oh I see." She pulled Gabrielle against her. "What do you think now?"

Gabrielle concentrated on the feel of Xena's body pushed up against hers. "I can't."

Xena smiled. "When did you decide that you were going to try and seduce me? Hmm?"

"Today." She smiled sweetly.

"Your sweet smile isn't going to work."

"No?"

"No."

"Then kiss me."

Xena's jaw dropped. "What?"

"You heard me. I said kiss me."

"No."

"Why not? I know you want to."

"I do want to but I can't."

"Why Xena?"

Xena pulled away from Gabrielle. "I'm sorry about the massage thing but that's as far as it will go."

"Xena."

"Look Gabrielle. I value our friendship and I'm not going to ruin it."

Gabrielle looked hurt. "I understand."

Xena saw the look. "I don't think you do."

"No, its okay. I understand. I'm not your type. You go for warriors. Its okay."

"That's not..."

"I don't think I could handle it anyway." She paused. "I mean one kiss and I'd pass out from the sheer power." She smiled.

"I think you have me in higher standards then necessary."

"Do I? I don't think so. I've talked to Hercules and Iolous. I even talked to Ephiny." She saw Xena look away. "They all told me the same thing. Watch out for the warrior princess." She smiled. "But I would like just one thing."

"What is that?"

"One kiss. That's all I'm asking for. I'm not asking you to make love to me or anything. Just a kiss. Surely you can handle that, can't you?"

Xena just looked at her. "I can handle that?"

Gabrielle felt her heart beat faster as she watched Xena walk to her. She looked down.

Xena hooked her finger under Gabrielle's chin and raised her eyes to hers. "Ready?"

Gabrielle nodded.

Xena leaned down and touched her lips to Gabrielle's, soft, and slow. She took her lips again and ran a tongue over Gabrielle's. When that mouth opened up to her, she slid in her tongue and started a battle. Sucking Gabrielle's tongue into her mouth, she heard her moan. She pulled away, biting Gabrielle's lower lip playfully, then looked at Gabrielle, waiting till she opened her eyes. She smiled when she did. "Better?"

Gabrielle stared up at her. "My gods, that was amazing."

Xena smiled. "You asked for it."

"I figured everyone was exaggerating. They weren't." She looked down at Xena's lips. "Again."

"You said one."

"I know what I said. One more."

"No."

"Xena."

"No, Gabrielle." She moved away and started unlacing her tunic. Once done, she slid into the warm water.

Gabrielle realized that she was still naked, and bent to grab her robe. Sitting down on the bed, she watched Xena. My gods that was....oh boy. I shouldn't of said that. Now I want more. Her eyes swept over Xena's wet form. Oh that body. How I would like to take my hands and run them over those curves. Hercules and Iolous were so lucky. How did they ever let her go? She realized that she was actually drooling and closed her mouth. That's attractive, me drooling all over the place. Yeah. She laid back and stared up at the ceiling.

Opening her eyes, she saw Xena standing over her with a towel on.

"You okay?"

"Fine." Her eyes trailed up Xena's exposed skin, starting at the legs. She didn't need to hide her longing.

"No, Gabrielle."

"Huh?" She looked down to see her own hand reaching for Xena's thigh. She pulled it back quickly. "Sorry."

Xena sat down and started drying her hair. "Its okay."

Gabrielle watched her and lowered her gaze to those long legs once again. Oh gods this is hard. Whose seducing who here?  She reached a hand out and ran it down Xena's outer thigh.

Xena looked at her and removed her hand. "Don't Gabrielle."

"Can't help it Xena." Her hand was back on the warm skin again.

"Gabrielle." She removed the hand again and stood up.

Gabrielle reached forward and grabbed the towel, yanking it away. It dropped, exposing Xena's nude form. "My goodness there's a sight."

Xena turned to her and lowered her eyes in a warning as she grabbed the towel and wrapped it around herself again. "Do I have to tie you up?"

"Would you?"

"I'm serious Gabrielle."

"So am I."

Xena stepped back. "You should go to your room."

"What about the bath?"

"Fine take it. I'll go to your room." She gathered up her things and headed for the door.

"Xena."

"What?" She turned.

"I'm sorry." Gabrielle stood. "I'll be good, I promise. Don't go."

"You promise you'll behave?"

Gabrielle nodded as she looked over Xena's half covered body.

Xena raised her chin. "Promise me."

"I promise."

"Now go get your bath." She moved away.

"Do you blame me?"

"What?"

"Do you blame me? For wanting you. I can't think of any reason why this wouldn't be a good idea. Who knows us more then each other."

"Got a point."

"So?"

"The answer is still no."

"Very well." She walked away.

"Just what do you have cooking in that head of yours?"

"Wouldn't you like to know."

"I would. So tell me."

"No." She smiled.

Xena watched her walk to the bath and remove the robe. As she sunk into the water, she let out a sigh.

Gabrielle turned. "I do believe you are staring, warrior."

"So? I do believe that your eyes were on me when I was there."

Gabrielle looked away.

"Yes, I know you were watching me." She didn't look away from Gabrielle.

Gabrielle rose up out of the bath and took a step out.

"Don't even think about it, Gabrielle."

"Why?"

Xena tried not to notice the way the water ran down the bard's body. She tried not to notice how Gabrielle was looking at her. She tried but failed miserably. She turned around instead.

"Problem?"

"Get back in there."

"Why?"

"Just do it!"

"Xena, what's wrong?" She smiled. "Seems your not the only one with....." She left the sentence like that.

"With what?"

"Is it or isn't it true that you also find me attractive?"

"No."

"Liar."

"Gabrielle, just get back in there."

Gabrielle was right in front of her now. "Love you."

"Love you too."

"Want you."

"Oh I want you too."

"But."

"But I can't. I told you that already."

"Why?"

"No, just no." She tried to get her feet to move but they weren't cooperating.

Gabrielle rose a hand and trailed it up Xena's side, feeling her shudder.

Xena closed her eyes when she felt that hand close around her breast. She stepped back. "No."

"Okay." She stepped back and slipped back into the tub. "I'll see you after you go get something to drink."

"How..."

Gabrielle smiled and closed her eyes, enjoying the warm water. "I know you better then you think."

Xena watched her for a minute then grabbed her shift, sliding it on. She walked out.

***
The room was dark when she opened the door. She could see the moonlight shining in through the window. She turned her head to look at the bed and saw a form hidden in the dark, under the covers. She walked closer and slid under the covers, facing away from Gabrielle. She closed her eyes.

"You were gone a long time."

Xena opened her eyes. "You still up?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Couldn't sleep."

"Try." She felt Gabrielle turn over and slid up next to her. "Gabrielle."

"Hmm?"

"About earlier, I'm sorry."

"Its okay."

For a minute neither spoke.

Gabrielle moved closer, till she had her form pressed against Xena's.

Xena shifted making Gabrielle smile. Warriors didn't shift around, no matter what. "Xena."

"Hmm?"

"You okay?"

No answer.

"Xena."

Xena moved back against Gabrielle.

Gabrielle slid a hand around Xena's waist, her face nuzzling her neck.

Xena shifted once again, but didn't say anything or move away.

"Xena." Gabrielle moved a hand to cover Xena's breast and squeezed.

Xena raised the hand off of her. "No."

Gabrielle pushed her hips against Xena's bottom. "Yeah I heard you."

"Then stop."

"I can't. Your addictive. I had a small amount and I can't get enough."

Xena turned around till she was facing Gabrielle. "I can't. I'm not saying that I don't want to because believe me I do."

Gabrielle covered Xena's lips with her own, holding the back of her head.

Xena had every intention of pulling away but those sweet lips called her. She pushed on. Xena felt Gabrielle push her hips against hers.

Xena pulled away and got out of the bed.

Gabrielle sat up. "Sorry."

Xena smiled and grabbed her leathers. "I'll go sleep in the other bed." She walked out.

***
The room was quiet when Xena left. Gabrielle laid back on the bed and watched the door. Screwed that up didn't I? Maybe I should go to her. Maybe I should leave? I don't know. She closed her eyes but opened them a few minutes later. Can't sleep without her though. Without another thought, she rose and walked out.

The minutes dragged by slowly as she waited at the door to Xena's room. She turned the knob and slowly walked in. She couldn't see much in the room, it was so dark. She moved around and kicked a table leg or something and grabbed her foot.

She was grabbed from behind and thrown to the ground. Looking up she could just make out the features. "Xena."

"Gabrielle." She rose off of her and helped her up. "Sorry. I heard someone come in an... What are you doing here?"

"Couldn't sleep."

"Oh."

"Xena."

"Hmm?"

"I'm sorry about earlier."

"No your not."

"What?"

"You knew what you were doing and you enjoyed it."

"I'm not the only one." She watched Xena turn away. "Am I?

Xena sat down on the bed. "I talked to a man from this village. He told me of the slavers village about a mile from here. A few people from villages around here were taken for slavery."

"Great, when do we leave?"

"I leave in the morning."

"Xena."

"This is dangerous."

Gabrielle sat down. "How would it look if the great warrior princess walked into a slavery village without a slave?"

"Good point, but no. You are not coming with me."

"You seem to be saying no a lot lately."

"And you will listen to me this time."

"Are you saying that I don't have to listen to what you said before?" She smiled.

"Your staying."

"Going."

"Staying."

"Going."

"Staying. Look, I'm not going to argue with you on this I s...."

"Fine. Then I'm going." She stood.

"No."

"I'll be your slave."

"You have no idea what that asks of you."

"Then tell me."

"No."

"Tell me what I need to know to be convincing."

"No, slavers don't keep slaves around just to do work, they keep them around for sex, Gabrielle."

"I'm prepared for that." She leaned forward.

"I'm not dragging you into that."

"I know. I'm going on my own."

Xena closed her eyes. "No, you don't know what kind of a place that is."

"Xena, I'm not as naive as I seem." She blushed.

"No."

"Are you going to leave me behind every time things get rough?"

Silence.

"Are you always going to keep me waiting at some village where I'm always praying that you'll come back. I'm not doing that again. You promised me that you would never leave me behind again."

Xena looked away. "No."

Gabrielle moved back a step. "Try and stop me."

Xena raised her head to look up at Gabrielle. "Don't test my patience Gabrielle. I'll tie you up to make sure you stay." Her hard tone meant that it was the end of the discussion.

Gabrielle grabbed the door knob. "Some partnership this is." She walked out.

***
Xena loaded up her supplies and jumped up into the saddle of the black stallion she rented. Turning her head she saw Gabrielle walking towards her. "What?"

"The way I see it, you have two choices. One, you take me with you. Or two, I follow anyway. Ether way, Xena, I'm going with you."

Xena ground her teeth and closed her eyes. "Stubborn."

"I get it from you."

"Come on." She pulled Gabrielle up behind her. "There is a lot that you must do."

"Like what?"

"One, listen to what I say and obey me without question. Two, never look a warrior in the eye. Three, never and I do mean never speak without being spoken to. Four,...."

"Xena what about sharing. I heard that slavers share their slaves."

"They do, but it won't come to that. You'll wear a collar with my seal on it. I don't think that anyone will so much as look at you knowing you belong to me."

"That sounds weird."

"What does?"

"You saying that I belong to you."

"Well, this may just be your best performance. One slip and we're dead."

"Okay, continue."

"Four, you serve me the food and drinks and never sit until I say so. Five, never address me as Xena, you must always use mistress or just don't address me at all. Six, if someone handles you, you must not fight back or talk. I'll be there to watch you just in case but if I'm not, don't."

"I'm not going to let someone just do whatever they want with me!"

"It won't come down to much Gabrielle. A grab here, a remark there."

"What else?"

Xena took a breath. "Perhaps you might want to go back."

"Come on Xena, what?"

"I'll have to act differently around you in public. I must not show affection. Don't take anything seriously, its just an act."

"Got it. Anything else."

"No, I think that's it."

"Okay." She wrapped her arms around Xena as they started off.

***
They stopped at the next town to buy clothing for Gabrielle.

Xena had a collar made with her sign and bought some leather cuffs. She grabbed a shirt and skirt for Gabrielle. Both were short and revealing but that was what a slave wore.

"Is all this necessary?"

Xena looked over and handed Gabrielle the clothes. "Get changed."

Gabrielle stepped into a room. "How does this stuff go?"

Xena entered to see Gabrielle standing in the nude, holding the cuffs. "Put on the clothes." She waited. "Come here and let me put those on."

Gabrielle sat down and watched Xena move in front of her. She opened her legs wide and smiled when Xena looked up her with a weird expression.

Xena slid a band up Gabrielle's thigh. "Sure you want to do this?"

Gabrielle looked down at her and nodded.

Xena slid on Gabrielle's sandals. She reached down her front and pulled out the breast dagger, and slid it into the band at Gabrielle's thigh. "Just in case I'm not there." Her hand lingered. "You don't have to do this." She looked up at Gabrielle.

"Yes I do."

Xena grabbed Gabrielle's arms and slid the bands on each wrist.

Gabrielle looked down at them to see a small silver ring attached to each. "What are those rings for?"

Xena held up a chain.

"Oh." She grabbed it and held the chain in her hand. "Kinda light and heavy at the same time."

"Light for comfort, heavy for hold."

Xena held up another object.

"What is that?"

Xena pulled it out of its covering and Gabrielle gasped. "Whip."

"Why?"

"For show."

"Oh." She watched as Xena ran her hands over the leather whip. "Bring back memories?"

"Yes it does." She looked up at Gabrielle's clothing. "And so does this."

"You had a slave?"

"Yes."

"A woman?"

Xena smiled. "Yes Gabrielle. A woman."

"Oh." She just stared at Xena and jumped when Xena touched her thigh.

"You okay?"

"Yeah, fine." She watched as Xena tightened the straps to make sure the dagger would stay.

"Your skirt should keep it hidden, just be careful." She slid it up higher. "There that should work."

Gabrielle wrapped a leg around Xena and pulled her forward. "Xena."

Xena raised up to meet Gabrielle's face. "What?" She tried to remove Gabrielle's leg from its hold on her back.

"All this leather and chain is turning me on." She smiled at Xena's expression. "Surprise you."

"Just a little."

Gabrielle moved forward. "Is it you?"

Xena looked down at Gabrielle's body and growled out a, "Yes."

"Then lets take the next step."

"No." She moved Gabrielle's leg and stood up.

Gabrielle stood and walked to Xena. "Sorry. Got carried away."

Xena turned and pulled Gabrielle towards her, crushing her mouth against the bards in a powerful kiss.

Gabrielle reached a hand up to cup Xena's breast and heard a moan. "Please Xena. Let me."

Xena pulled Gabrielle's hips to hers and growled. "I'd love to but I can't." She pulled away.

Gabrielle sat down.

"You have no idea how much I want to sit down in front of you, grab your hips and...." She stopped to shake her head. "Just breath Xena." She walked out of the tent.

***
The pace they set was slow. Xena rode on the horse while Gabrielle walked by quietly.

"Xena."

"Yeah."

"How far is the village?"

They topped the hill and looked down at the dark village.

"Never mind." Gabrielle had a bad feeling about all this.

"Give me the leash." She was handed the leash. "And the chain." Gabrielle raised her wrists and Xena locked them together as she attached the collar and leash. "Lets go."

Nearing the gates the guards eyed them but didn't move or say a thing.

Entering the village they looked around to see tons of warriors, men and women.

Xena jumped down from the horse and leaned down to whisper in Gabrielle's ear. "Now remember what I told you." She walked, leading both Gabrielle and the horse.

A man walked up to them. His hair was dark and his skin had a tan hue to it. He was handsome and his muscles were big but not too much. He eyed the warrior and smiled. "Xena, you still alive."

"Yes, Arnos and by the smell of it you are too." She didn't smile.

"Ouch." He looked down at Gabrielle. "I see you traded one small girl for another." He looked over her form. "Then again small isn't the word." He looked back up at Xena.

"Well are you going to stand here drooling or can we go and get something to drink?"

***
"So where have you been all these years. You know there is a rumor that you turned good."

"You know rumors."

"I do, but I don't hear you denying it."

Gabrielle took the moment to stretch out her legs along the floor, pushing her chest out by accident.

Arnos looked down and eyed the delicious woman.

Xena saw the display and smiled slightly. "Go get me some wine and food, girl."

Gabrielle rushed away.

"How long has she been with you?"

"Not long."

"Not one for small talk are you?"

"No."

He watched Gabrielle. "Care to share her?"

"No."

"Aw Xena, I'll give you twenty dinars."

She looked at him. "Are you deaf. I said no." She looked away. "Don't you have something to do?"

"No."

"Then find something."

"I can take a hint. I'll see you later."

She rolled her eyes.

Gabrielle came back as soon as he left.

"Put the food down and sit."

Gabrielle sat down on the floor next to Xena's chair.

Xena stood. "Stay here." She walked to the bar then walked back. "Come on, got us a room."

They walked slowly up the stairs and into the room.

Xena turned to Gabrielle. "Stay here until I come back, you should be safe."

"Where are you going?"

Xena smiled. "I'll be back later."

Gabrielle sat down on the bed and watched Xena walk out.

***
Xena walked down the stairs and walked to her table.

As she had thought, Arnos came back.

"What do you want?"

"Talk."

"Oh? You want to talk."

"Yeah."

She stood up.

"Where are you going?"

"I'm not in the mood for talking."

He heard the purr in her voice. "Perhaps I can offer some other option."

"Like?"

He walked closer. "Like I take you up to my room."

Xena took in his scent. He didn't smell bad but she had joked with him when they had first got there. "Sounds good."

He smiled at his good fortune and lead them up the stairs to his room

Xena walked in and looked around. The room was much bigger then hers and Gabrielle's. She unbuckled her armor and threw it down on the rug.

Arnos walked to her and roughly pulled her to him, taking possession of her mouth.

Xena grabbed hold of his back, pulling him closer against her. They moved backwards against the wall, her leg went around his waist.

He ground himself against her and watched her eyes close.

The straps to her tunic dropped as the laces were untied. He pushed it down and attached his mouth to her breast. "Gods I missed you."

She threw her head back and moaned, grinding herself against him.

He slid the leather the rest of the way off, over her hips and unfastened his pants. The clothing dropped together and he thrust into her.

"Oh, yes." She wrapped both legs around him.

He pulled her mouth to his again. Her tongue battled with his.

Gabrielle ran her hands down over the wall on the other side of the room. The sounds from Xena were making her crazy. So she took him to her bed. So what? She already told me no. The sounds grew louder and she heard Xena cry out. "Oh gods." She slid down and her hands found themselves under her skirt, and slid along the length of her sex. Her head fell back against the wall and her eyes closed as she slid two fingers in.

As Xena came, so did she. She stopped her fingers and slowed her breathing.

As she heard the sounds of shuffling around the room, she stood up and went to the wash basin to clean herself off.

***
Xena walked into her room and saw Gabrielle sitting on a chair, looking out the window. "What are you looking at?" She walked closer.

Gabrielle turned and smiled. "Where did you go?"

"Oh, I had to go take care of some things."

"I bet you did." She turned back around.

"What does that mean?"

"Nothing."

"No tell me."

"No, it doesn't matter."

"Tell me now."

"I heard you. You and Arnos. These walls are real thin Xena."

Xena's jaw dropped. "Sorry."

"Its okay. Its none of my business what you do."

"What is your problem?"

Gabrielle stood and turned around. "My problem is that you decide to run to him. We both wanted the same thing but still you won't allow it."

"You want me to make love to you is that it? After we do, then what."

"I don't know. All I know is that I had the most intense orgasm I had ever had thanks to you."

"ME?"

"Listening to your sounds of pleasure really get a girl going."

Xena looked away.

"Its okay. We both got something out of it." She turned back to the window and sat down.

Knowing that Gabrielle had pleasured herself while listening to her made a spark shoot through her body. She walked forwards and started to rub Gabrielle's shoulders.

Gabrielle shrugged her off and stood up. "No. Its not fair that you get to touch me when I don't get to touch you." She left the room.

***
The conversation around the room was loud and annoying to Gabrielle. She sat on the floor next to Xena and studied the floor and the feet of people walking by.

A cup dropped making her jump. She looked up at Xena.

"Get it for me."

She disappeared under the table to look for it. It was dark and she had troubles finding it. She stopped when she saw Xena's legs move apart. She gasped when she saw that Xena wasn't wearing any underwear. The legs widened as if Xena was offering herself to Gabrielle.

Not one to object when a treat was put before her she moved forward and buried her face into Xena's cunt.

Xena jumped and slid her hands under the table. "Oh." She slid her ass cheeks to the edge of the bench and threw her head back.

They had seated themselves in the back and right now that was starting to pay off.

Xena groaned when Gabrielle buried her tongue in her. "Gab...Gab....Oh..." Her hips started to grind against Gabrielle's face.

Gabrielle was in pure heaven. Nothing had tasted so sweet as the treat she was enjoying right now. She reached up and grabbed hold of Xena's hips, holding them to her.

Xena tangled her hands in the red hair and held on as the waves started to crash around her. She stiffened and pushed Gabrielle harder into her flesh.

Gabrielle pulled back and trailed kisses down Xena's inner thighs, as her hand caressed Xena's sex.

Xena reached down and pulled Gabrielle's face away from her. She pulled the bard to sit next to her on the floor as she had before.

Gabrielle wiped her face and held a smile.

Xena opened her eyes to look up at the ceiling above her, feeling a jolt run through her from the dream. She licked her lips and turned her head to look at Gabrielle, who was sleeping on the cot, next to the dead fire. She swung her legs over the side of the bed and stood up, then walked to the window. There were a bunch of people moving around. By the looks of it, they seemed to be having a party.

She looked down one last time, then walked to the door.

***
When Gabrielle woke, she couldn't see a thing, the room was in total darkness. Sitting up, she could see lights shining through their window. She stood and walked to the window to look down at the villagers. She smiled as she realized that they were having a party of some sort. She looked over at the bed to see if Xena was there, knowing full well that she wouldn't.

She sat down and just watched out the window, not daring to leave the room. If she did, they would get suspicious. She saw Xena come into view and leaned closer to get a closer look.

Xena walked to a tree stump and sat down on it, smiled when a man came up behind her.

The man brushed her hair from her shoulders and started to massage them, gently, but firmly.

Gabrielle recognized the man from earlier, it was Arnos. When she saw the two kiss, she turned away and laid back down on the bed.

Sitting back up, she looked around the room and grabbed her collar, and leash, then headed out the door.

Xena looked up just in time to see Gabrielle walking into the firelight. "What are you doing here?"

Gabrielle lowered her head and held out a tray. "Your food Mistress."

Xena watched Gabrielle pick up a piece of food and hold it out for her to take. She smiled as she leaned forward and grabbed the morsel out of the bards fingers, making sure her tongue ran lightly over the skin. She turned to Arnos. "Would you excuse me."

He smiled and sat down.

Xena grabbed Gabrielle by the arm roughly, making her drop the tray. "What are you doing here?" They stopped far from ears.

"Coming to the party."

"I didn't invite you."

"So."

"Gabrielle, if you expect to be my slave, then you must learn to obey. Look around. Do you see any slaves here tonight."

Gabrielle turned her head around. "No, but......."

"Right, no. So leave."

"No."

"Gabrielle do as I say, now."

"No."

Xena grabbed Gabrielle's arm and held tight. "I said go."

"What....ow. Xena you're hurting me." She tried to pull her arm away but it was no use. "Ow."

Xena held on tighter. "You don't need to be here now. You shouldn't be here now." Her eyes left Gabrielle's and trailed down the bards body.

Gabrielle saw this. "Why?"

"Just do as I say or....."

"Or what?"

Xena let go of Gabrielle's arm. "Just go, before I have to punish you."

"Punish me, you have got to be kidding." She let out a gasp as she was pushed against a tree. "You're not kidding."

"No, my bard, I'm not."

Gabrielle saw nothing but the warlord in those blue eyes and felt a bit scared. "Xena."

Xena pushed her body against hers. "Please go, Gabrielle."

"Okay." She was let loose and moved to walk away when she felt a tug at her leash. Turning she saw Xena looked down at it. "Xena?"

Xena didn't look up.

"Xena." She walked closer. "What is it?"

Xena looked up and held out the leash. "Go now."

Gabrielle took it and backed up. The look in Xena's eyes frightened her but also made her....what? She jumped when she backed against a tree. She saw Xena move closer to her and should of moved but couldn't get her feet to move or her eyes to move from Xena's.

"Gabrielle, go. Run."

Gabrielle found her brain and turned, running all the way back to the inn. When she got to the door, she turned to see Xena staring at her from across the street.

Somehow, she thought that Xena looked more vulnerable right now then she had ever.

With strength, she turned from those eyes and walked into the inn.

***
The next morning, Gabrielle woke to find that Xena was gone. The neatness of the covers told Gabrielle she had been all night.

Walking to the window, she looked down to see the remains of the party being cleaned up. Several people lay sprawled about.

She grabbed her collar and slipped it on, then walked out.

The dinning area was loud.

She found a seat in the back and ordered some food. She didn't care if she wasn't supposed to be here without Xena or not, she was hungry and for some reason, she didn't expect Xena back for awhile.

She ate in silence and jumped when someone sat down next to her. She looked over to see a woman. She had light brown hair that came to her shoulders and dark skin. Her eyes were a dark brown and she held a smile.

"So you're Xena's new slut."

Gabrielle looked away.

"I mean no offense in that."

Gabrielle bit back a response.

"I should think it would be an honor to travel with the great warrior princess. So, what is it like?"

No answer.

"You can talk to me you know."

Gabrielle looked up.

"I have to say, she sure has taste. You are lovely. Soft yet strong, sweet yet somewhere down there I detect a hint of power. That's why she chose you I bet."

Gabrielle looked away.

"What is your name?" She hooked a finger under Gabrielle's chin and pulled her head up. "Hmm?"

"Gabrielle."

"Pretty name. I'm Mili."

Gabrielle looked away again.

"So, where is she?"

She shrugged.

"Oh? I see." She fingered the collar around Gabrielle's neck. "Great craftsmanship. Even has her seal." She ran a finger over the X.

Gabrielle finished her meal and stood.

"Where you going?"

She walked away.

Mili stood and walked to her. "You could stay with me."

Gabrielle turned and couldn't stop the glare in her eyes.

"Whoa. I meant no harm in it. I'm just....lonely."

Gabrielle walked away.

"Hey. What else have you got to do today? Contrary to what some people may think, not all warlords are creeps. I'm an Amazon and we are very.." She leaned so she could whisper in Gabrielle's ear. "...gentle."

Gabrielle shivered.

"So what'll it be?"

Gabrielle nodded and turned to walk out, when a strong hand grabbed her around the arm roughly. She turned to see Xena.

"Keep your hands off my property," Xena growled out.

Mili smiled. "Very well Xena." She looked at Gabrielle winked, then walked away.

Xena bent to Gabrielle's ear and whispered, "Where were you going?"

"No where."

"Oh? Didn't look like it to me."

She turned to Xena and glared. She didn't see it coming but was thrown to the floor with the power of the smack that Xena laid across her cheek. She looked up at Xena and held back the tears that were about to fall.

"Up."

She rose.

"Room, now."

Gabrielle climbed the stairs.

Xena watched the woman across the bar. Walking to her she gave an icy stare. "What were you doing?"

"Going to show her a good time."

Fire was evident in Xena's eyes. "My property?"

"Oh Xena. When are you going to get it through your head. Gentle. You just might kill another one." She rose and walked out of the inn.

Gabrielle jumped when the door was opened. She kept her back turned.

"Gabrielle."

She didn't turn.

"Gabrielle."

She turned. "What?"

"I'm sorry."

"Yeah I know." She turned away again and felt a soft, gentle hand at her stinging cheek. She winced.

"Can you forgive me, I just need to show them that I..."

Gabrielle turned. "No, Xena. It was more then that. I saw the look in your eyes. You enjoyed it."

Xena looked away. "I knew it was wrong for you to come."

"I'm starting to see this. Why don't I leave then."

"No."

"Why?"

"You wouldn't make it far. Slave borders all around here."

"Fine." She sat down on the bed, staring out the window. "I'll stay." She turned to Xena. "But if you ever hit me again...." She didn't need to answer that question.

"Yes." She backed away and closed her eyes as she felt the serge of something run through her. Did she enjoy hitting Gabrielle. She looked down at her hand and closed her eyes. The answer was yes.

***
"Mistress."

Xena turned. "What?"

"We should go back to the room."

"Oh?"

Gabrielle raised up and moved to Xena's ear. "I have a certain warrior that needs to be fucked and she needs it now."

Xena closed her eyes and groaned. "Yes." She stood and all but ran to their room.

Once inside Gabrielle pushed Xena against the door and took her mouth. "I need you Xena."

"You have me." She lifted Gabrielle up and groaned when her legs went around her waist. "Gods Gabrielle. I can't believe you did that just now, downstairs." She laid them down on the soft furs in front of the fire.

"It looked like an invitation if you ask me."

"Was not."

"Oh yeah. You never drop your mug and when I went under the table to get it, you opened up your legs, knowing full well what I would do." She smiled. "I want to do it again, you taste so sweet."

Xena closed her eyes and groaned. "Yes." She ground her hips against Gabrielle's hard.

Gabrielle groaned. "I need you now." She practically tore off her top.

Xena lowered her head and pulled Gabrielle's breast into her mouth as she bit the nipple.

Gabrielle tilted her head back. "Oh yes." She bent her legs and wrapped them around Xena.

Xena had no patience tonight as she lifted Gabrielle skirt and pulled off the barrier of underwear. She took in the scent of Gabrielle then pushed her face into the soft flesh.
 
Xena jumped away and tried to get back her breath. 'Not another one.' She walked to the window and looked out. Her body tingled as she saw more.

"Oh my gods." Gabrielle threw her head back and rolled her hips. "Yes Xena. Oh that feels so good." She nearly passed out right there when Xena plunged three fingers in, her mouth not losing contact. Gabrielle grabbed hold of Xena's head and held her there.

It didn't take long and soon Gabrielle came, screaming out.

Xena climbed up Gabrielle's body and smiled. "I should of done that a long time ago."

"I tried."

"Yes you did. Thanks to you we are here now. Although I should punish you for that display downstairs. A servant must never touch his or her mistress without permission."

"Uh oh." She watched Xena stand and grab something out of a drawer. When she turned she gasped when she saw that Xena was holding a whip.

"Ready for your punishment?"

"Oh yes." She rose and bent over on all fours.

Xena jumped again and stood up, pacing back and forth. 'Go away.' She rubbed her face and let out a low moan as she saw even more.

Xena groaned at this sight. She threw down the whip and grabbed the phallus. On her knees now, she grabbed Gabrielle's cheeks. "Oh so soft." She pushed a finger into Gabrielle's ass and pumped it in and out, hearing Gabrielle's groans. "Ready?" She pushed the phallus into the soft flesh, and they soon picked up a rhythm.

Gabrielle closed her eyes tight and held onto the floor underneath her. "Gods Xena. Don't stop."

"Had no intention of it." She felt Gabrielle start to climax and pulled out.

"What are you doing?" She turned.

"Patience." She moved Gabrielle onto her back and laid down on top of her, her hips pushed against her.

"Oh yes." She closed her eyes and opened her legs up wider. "Yes, Xena take me. Oh."

Xena moved her hips faster and harder against Gabrielle, till she couldn't stand it anymore and her body exploded along with Gabrielle. She fell against the bard and closed her eyes. "Mmm."

Gabrielle stroked Xena's hair and focused on her breathing. "That was incredible."

"Not yet." She raised her head and took control of Gabrielle's mouth as she grabbed Gabrielle's breast. Her mouth lowered taking the breast into her mouth. "So sweet."

A loud smack was heard as her fist came in contact with the solid wall. She pulled her hand back in pain and sat down.

"Xena."

"Just go back to sleep Gabrielle."

Gabrielle sat up and looked over at the bed. "What is it?" She saw Xena holding her hand. "You okay?" She stood up and walked to her, biting her lip when she saw the blood running down Xena's knuckles.

"I'm fine."

"Uh no, Xena. You are not fine. Blood.....you're bleeding."

"Just go back to sleep."

"Hey, just because you don't care doesn't mean that I don't."

Xena looked up. The bruise along Gabrielle's cheek had developed into a nice shade of purple. 'I don't know which one hurts more. The fact that I hit her or how she is trying to help me after what I did.' She looked away.

"No Xena. Don't think about it." She grabbed the warriors hand and winced when Xena did and pulled her hand away. "Sorry." She turned it over and around. "Xena, its broken."

"I know."

"What happened?"

Xena raised her head and looked toward the wall she had hit.

Gabrielle gasped. "Xena, why?"

Xena looked down.

"Why?" She raised Xena's head with her hand. "Please."

"I hit it."

"Well I know that. Why did you hit it?"

"So I wouldn't feel....."

"Go on. Feel what?"

She took a breath and looked away. "For you. I had a dream or whatever and......gods Gabrielle if you only knew what it was about." Her eyes closed.

"I can just imagine."

Xena stood. "I'm going downstairs. Wanna come?"

"Depends."

"On what?"

"On how you are going to act."

"I'll be nice."

"Promise."

"No." She walked out.

***
Gabrielle grabbed the plates and headed off towards the table.

Arnos grabbed one and handed the other to Xena. "So, Xena about the oth...."

"What about it?"

"I was hoping that we could.."

"No."

"Why?"

"Because it was just a spur of the moment thing. You were there for what I needed and I won't make the mistake again."

He looked downright pissed as he walked away.

Xena looked down to see Gabrielle smile and bent down to whisper in her ear. "You like that?"

She nodded.

"Good, go get me some wine."

Gabrielle stood and walked away but was thrown off balance when a big man grabbed her around the waist.

"What do we have here? Fresh meat." He bent to nibble on her neck.

She pulled away.

"No, no. Come here." He pulled her closer to him and pushed her up against the wall. He covered her mouth with his, but pulled back quickly when she bit him. "Bitch." His hand came down hard across her already bruised cheek.

Gabrielle fell and looked up to see a dagger fly into his chest. He fell and she looked up to see Xena pulling out the dagger. She wiped it off with his shirt and pulled Gabrielle up.

Looking around the room she put her glare on. "Anyone else touches her and they wind up like him." She pulled Gabrielle over to their table. "You okay?"

Gabrielle nodded even though her face was killing her.

"Sure?"

She shook her head.

"Oh, Gabrielle. I'm so sorry."

"Yeah." She sat down and looked away.

"Up here."

"What?"

"Come sit up here."

Gabrielle moved from the ground and sat down next to Xena.

"Better?"

"Yes."

"Good." She rested a hand over Gabrielle's and squeezed. "Don't worry. I won't let anything else happen to you."

Gabrielle nodded and looked down at their joined hands. She looked up at Xena.

Xena smiled and looked down at their hands, then pulled hers away.

A man walked up to them. "Xena. How long has it been?"

She smiled. "Darmus. I'd say about five years."

He sat down across from her. "You haven't changed a bit. Still as beautiful as ever." His eyes were drawn to Gabrielle. "New slave?"

"Yes."

"Nice."

"Yes I know." Her hand lowered to cover Gabrielle's thigh.

He smiled. "How long have you had her?"

"A while." She leaned closer. "What do you want?"

"I came over to say hi to my old commander."

"Well you know me."

"Yes I do." He smirked. "Not one for chit chat."

"That's right."

The servant girl came by. "Anything?"

Xena looked up. "Wine, nut bread."

Darmus smiled up at her. "Wine and some chicken." He watched her walk away. "Service is great around here isn't it." He turned back to Xena. "So, what new conquests are you into this year."

"Just taking a break for awhile."

"Oh?"

"Yeah. On my way to......."

A loud crash was heard and they all turned their heads to see a servant that had dropped a tray.

Xena turned back to Darmus who looked at her and smiled. She watched him looked at Gabrielle and lick his lips. "Don't even think about it."

"What?"

She glared at him. "Mine."

"Fair enough." He stood. "I should get back to the gang, but it was great seeing you."

"Yeah, wish I could say the same."

He smiled and walked away.

Xena rolled her eyes and looked down at Gabrielle.

The servant came by and gave them their food.

Xena tapped Gabrielle. "Thirsty?" She handed Gabrielle the mug and watched as she made a face after she took a drink. "Sorry." She handed Gabrielle some nut bread.

"Aw Xena, getting soft?"

Xena looked up to see Mili. "What do you want?"

"Her." She laughed.

Xena gave fake laugh. "Get lost."

"And if I don't?"

Xena stood. "Don't make me say it."

Mili swallowed the lump in her throat and eyed Xena. "Say it. I want to hear it."

Xena laid her hands on the table and leaned forward, wincing when pressure was applied to her broken hand. No one but Gabrielle caught it though. "Mili, if I didn't know any better I'd say that you were trying to get me mad."

"I am."

"Oh."

"Yes, you're beautiful when your angry." She stared down Xena's cleavage. "Not that you aren't any other time but when your eyes are like ice, I love it."

Xena smiled. "Well Mils keep it up and you will see me mad."

Mili smiled and leaned forward. "I'm counting on it." Her leaned to kiss Xena but Xena pulled away. "Oh, I see. Playing hard to get."

"Always."

"Oh yeah, that's true." She licked her lips and took in the woman before her. "I'd love to stay and chat, but I have things to do. You know how it is. So many people to do so little time." She winked and walked away.

Xena sat down and looked down at Gabrielle. "You okay?"

"Fine." She smiled up at her.

"Good." She stared up at the dancer over at the stage. "This is so......boring." She looked down at Gabrielle. "Hey, Gabs, do you know how to dance?"

"No."

"Oh......spoils things a bit." She stood and grabbed Gabrielle's hand, pulling her up. "Go up onto the stage."

"I don't think they would want to hear a story."

"Neither do I, but that's not what I had in mind."

"What did you have in mind?"

"I want you to dance."

"I can't dance."

"So learn." She pulled her forward. She addressed the crowd, "We will have new entertainment." She pushed Gabrielle towards the stage and picked a seat up front. "Now dance."

Gabrielle looked down at Xena and could tell she was in full warlord mode once again. 'Oh great, this is just great. I can't dance.' She looked around the room and heard the music start to play. There was something about the beat of the drums and the way not only the audience was looking at her but also Xena.

She found her hips starting to move to the beat. Her hands came into play almost by themselves.

As the music picked up speed, so did she. She twirled and moved around the stage so smooth and graceful that she had the audiences attention as well as a certain warrior.

Something started to spark through her and she found her hands at the ties to her shirt. She pulled the laces and turned her back to the crowd as she slowly pulled one by one. When they were all loose, she slipped the top off of her shoulders and let it drop to the floor. Covering her breasts with her own hands she faced the crowd and winked as she turned sideways, removing one hand. She started to undo the ties to her skirt. Once done, she bent slowly and slid it down her ass. She slid off her britches and pulled up her hair as she faced the crowd and continued to dance with the music.

She lowered her eyes to look down at Xena and smiled as she saw the desire in those blue eyes. She smiled and continued to dance.

***
Gabrielle reached for the tray of strawberries and slid one into her mouth, taking a bite. She looked over at the tub. "Xena, you okay?"

"Fine, why."

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

"You don't know the half of it."

"Oh." She stood and walked towards the tub. "Care to explain things to me."

Xena looked up at her. "What did you think you were doing out there?"

"I was dancing."

"Dancing? You were stripping, Gabrielle."

"So? Its done all the time."

"Not with you."

Gabrielle glared. "I'll tell you this just one more time, Xena. I am not that village girl that followed you anymore. I have grown up and the sooner you realize that, the better we will be." She turned and sat back down on the bed.

Xena watched her eat another strawberry. "That's the problem I think." She saw Gabrielle turn to her. "You have grown up and I have noticed. I didn't want to notice and I tried to not, but somehow....I did." She looked away.

Gabrielle rose with her bowel of strawberries and walked to the tub, kneeling down. "Then start treating me like you have."

Xena looked at her.

Gabrielle smiled and held out a strawberry. "Its good, try it."

Xena leaned forward and wrapped her lips around the fruit and sucked at it, sliding her tongue around Gabrielle's fingers, taking every last drop. Gabrielle let go and closed her eyes as Xena licked the rest of the juice off of her fingers. Xena looked up at Gabrielle and leaned forward, pressing her lips against Gabrielle's.

Gabrielle jumped and felt Xena's hand at the back of her head, and pressed harder into the kiss. A moan escaped her lips as she pulled away. "Gods."

"No, just me." She smiled when Gabrielle opened her eyes. "I love you."

"I love you too."

"I'm sorry I ever dragged you into this."

"I'm the one who wanted to go."

"Yeah, but I should of been able to say no."

"You did say no."

Xena laughed causing Gabrielle to follow. "What are we going to do?"

Gabrielle stood. "Well, right now I'm going to have you stand up, take you over to the bed, and show you how much I love and want you."

Xena looked away but Gabrielle made her face her. "I can't."

"You can and you will." She kneeled. "Its about time you figure out how special you are to me."

"I think I know." She stood up out of the water.

"Oh my." Gabrielle watched the water run down the curves of Xena's body and closed her eyes.

"Hey, don't get nervous on me now."

"Far from nervous, my love." Her eyes drifted over the soft skin without bothering to hide the desire in her eyes. Standing, she looked up into Xena's eyes.

Xena stepped over the side and walked towards Gabrielle. "Ready for this?"

"Too late to say no." Her voice cracked and she licked her lips.

"No its not. Say so and this ends."

Gabrielle walked right up to her. "I don't think I could stop if I wanted to. I just need to touch you." Her hands rose to ran up Xena's sides. She heard the intake of breath and trailed her nails over the skin.

"Gabrielle...we..." A finger was placed over her lips.

"Shh, we'll take this slow." She backed them up, smiling when Xena sat down on the bed. As she was pulled against Xena she shivered as soft kisses were placed on her stomach. Her hands wrapped themselves in the dark hair in front of her. She could feel Xena's hands move down to rest at her ass and squeeze, then one pulled back in pain. She looked at Xena's face. "You okay?"

"Yeah its nothing."

Gabrielle grabbed the hurt hand and looked it over, it was black and blue. "Oh gods Xena. We'll stop this."

"No."

"But your hand."

"I have two hands you know." She smiled and pulled Gabrielle's mouth down to hers again, but with one hand, then moved to kiss that smooth stomach once more, hearing another intake of breath. "I can't believe I waited so long for this, when you were....."

"I know." She kneeled, pushing her hands up and around Xena's cheeks to pull her forwards. "I intend to make love to you now and forever." She sealed the promise with a light kiss to Xena's lips.

"I'll hold you to that promise."

"I was counting on that." As she bent to kiss that exposed neck, there was a knock at the door. She heard Xena growl and laughed. "They can come back."

"No Gabrielle. Have you forgotten where we are?"

Gabrielle wrinkled her nose. "Oh yeah." She moved aside as Xena stood and walked to the door.

"What?"

The boy on the other side froze as the wet, naked, and very angry warrior appeared before him. "Message....f...from..DD...Darmus. Said to come..downstairs."

She slammed the door and grabbed her leather tunic. "Never a moments peace."

Gabrielle stood and sat down on the bed. "No."

Xena turned and frowned. "Don't worry, Gabrielle. This is not over as far as I'm concerned." Her smile was genuine and full of love, making Gabrielle return it. "Just a few minutes I'm sure, and then...." She walked forward and pushed Gabrielle back, hovering over her. "....we finish what we started." She placed a soft yet demanding kiss that showed Gabrielle she wasn't the only one that wanted this to continue.

Gabrielle watched her warrior walk out of the room and sighed as she closed her eyes.

***
Xena came back after a few hours and saw Gabrielle sitting down on the bed. "Got good news."

"And?"

"I know where the slaves are."

"Where?"

"A town called Sybaris. Small and rarely known about."

"Never heard of it."

"Me either."

Gabrielle stood. "So we leave?"

"Yes."

Gabrielle grabbed her collar and leash. "I suppose all this is necessary again. And the chains."

Xena nodded and walked forward, helping Gabrielle hook on the items. She pulled the leash a bit hard and smiled with Gabrielle's surprised reaction. "This is a good look for you."

Gabrielle looked up. "Don't even think about it."

"Wasn't."

"Liar."

Xena walked away. "This town was easy. Sybaris won't be. They will watch you like a hawk waiting for a chance to......find any flaws. You have to act the part of the slave Gabrielle. Not like you did here. There will be no slip ups this time. You got that."

"Yes, but I thought you haven't been there."

Xena looked away. "You will not talk back or question any orders. Do as I say when I say."

Gabrielle sat down. "I will do as you say."

Xena stepped forward. "And what will you call me, Gabrielle?"

Gabrielle smiled. "I will call you Mistress."

"Very good."

Gabrielle stood and walked toward Xena.

"Gabrielle I...." She looked away and closed her eyes. She soon felt Gabrielle come up in front of her. Her hand raised and grabbed hold of Gabrielle's waist, pulling her against her.

Gabrielle laid her head against Xena's leather covered chest.

Feeling the warm breath on her skin, she shuddered. "Gabrielle we...."

"Shh, I know, just hold me." The arm around her tightened.

***
"So how far is this town?"

"Far. We must cross the waters to get to it."

"That bad huh. You know how me and ships get along."

"Yes I know Gabrielle but as I recall it was you who wanted to come along. Stay if you want. Go home."

"No, I'll stay with you." She grinned slyly. "I'm not letting you out of my sights. As I recall, we have some unfinished business that needs to be attended to." Her grin widened. "And I intend to finish it." She walked past Xena.

***
The ship rocked back and forth with each wave, knocking Gabrielle along with it. She hit the side of the wall and let out a miserable moan. "Xena."

"Right here." She handed Gabrielle a mug. "Drink this. It won't help with the sickness but at least it will put you out."

Gabrielle drank it all and sat down near some crates, closing her eyes. She felt Xena slid up against her and wrap an arm around. "Thank you."

"Anytime." She laid her cheek down on Gabrielle's head and closed her eyes as well.

***
The night settled in pretty fast, leaving the two women lying down in the dark.

Xena listened to the sounds around her. The light splashing of the waves, the creaking of the ship, the voices and footsteps coming from the men, and most importantly a light snore coming from the woman at her side. She turned her head but couldn't see Gabrielle.

Gabrielle stirred and buried her head farther into Xena's shoulder and sighed. A moment later she opened her eyes and looked around to see utter darkness. "Xena?"

"Right here." She squeezed Gabrielle's side to show her.

"Oh." Gabrielle laid her head back down. "I...are we still on the ship?"

"Yes. We should get there by morning. Rest now." She ran a hand over Gabrielle's arm and smiled when she felt the shudder run through the woman.

Gabrielle laid there relaxed knowing she was in the arms of the woman she loved. She raised her arm and laid it down across Xena's stomach which was covered with a soft shift instead of the leather. She slid her leg across Xena's thigh and rubbed her hips against Xena's side.

"Gabrielle, don't start this now."

"Its not as if I could help it. I can't see you and still I want you." She rolled over onto Xena. "I wish I could see your face...your eyes." She didn't need to see to find those soft, inviting lips. "I want you, and nothing is going to interrupt us. I'll kill anyone who does."

"I just bet you would too."

"Better believe it." She covered the lips again and heard a moan from Xena as she pushed her hips against the woman beneath her. "Gods you feel good."

Xena brought her hand up to cup Gabrielle's ass and pushed those hips against hers as she opened her legs, moaning when Gabrielle slid between. "Yes." She felt those warm lips at her neck, sucking hard and slow. "Marking me my love?"

"Yes, so everyone will know who you belong to."

Xena's eyes flew open as she pulled Gabrielle's head away from her neck. "No."

"What?"

"We can't have that. Not at this place."

"Oh. Well it should be okay, I don't think I did it long enough."

"I'm sorry Gabrielle. After this is all over, you can mark me as many times as you want, but now, I can't have it."

"I understand. Do you want us to stop?"

"Don't you dare."

Gabrielle smiled and kissed that neck again, this time softly, letting her tongue come out to taste the sweet skin. "You taste good."

"Mmm." Her knees bent, and her hands pushed Gabrielle's hips harder against hers. "Oh, Gabrielle, go lower."

Gabrielle slid off the straps to Xena's shift and pulled it off as Xena's raised up her body. Throwing it to the floor, she ran her hands over that soft, supple flesh. "Gods how I've wanted to touch you like this." She bent her head and took a nipple into her mouth, sucking hard. Her tongue twirled around the hard pink pebble and she bit down not so gently. Her hips had now started to rock against Xena's with rhythm and power.

Xena's head fell back as she felt Gabrielle's mouth place kisses all over her stomach. "Lower, please."

They were so worked up from before that this wouldn't take too long. Gabrielle knew this and planned on taking her time in devouring the warrior. Her warrior.

She pushed those long legs apart and wasted no time burying her tongue in Xena's sex.

"Oh." Her hips flew up.

Gabrielle pulled back. "You know Xena. Even though we can't see a thing, I still can find my goal." She smiled and continued.

Xena moved her hand down to grab hold of that head sending her higher and higher. "Oh yes, Gabrielle. Don't stop." Her hips started to rock against Gabrielle's face.

A loud explosion was heard and the two women turned their heads to see a big hole in the side of the wall.

Xena pulled away from Gabrielle and slipped on her shift right as the door opened.

Three men stepped in and looked around as they shined the candle around the room. "Xena, you down here?"

"What happened?" Her voice was tight.

"I don't know. Anyone hurt?"

"We're fine." She turned to Gabrielle.

He nodded and handed her a lantern. "I'll go see what happened."

Xena sat the lantern down on a table then laid back against the bed. Feeling her legs being spread apart, she groaned and raised up. "What...are... Oh gods." She fell backwards as Gabrielle once again started to suck at her needy flesh. "Yes." Her hand found its way back to Gabrielle's hair and held on tight as she felt the pressure start.

Gabrielle grabbed onto Xena's hips and held her. As the hand tightened on her hair she sucked harder and pushed three fingers into Xena. Hearing a scream, she shuddered and sucked at all the juices the warrior offered.

When she had gotten her body back, she grabbed for Gabrielle and pulled her up against her. "Thank you." Her eyes closed and she held on to Gabrielle.

Just as Gabrielle felt herself starting to fall asleep, she was flipped over onto her back.

"Now its my turn."

***
They reached the island sometime after dawn and unloaded.

Finding a horse, they headed towards Sybaris.

"Do you think we......" She stopped.

Xena turned to her. "Do you think we what?"

"Nothing, I was just wondering about how to act. You know I'm not going to be able to keep my hands off of you." She trailed her hands over Xena's side to prove a point.

"Don't worry. I'll have you chained."

"Oh you will, will you. And how do you plan on doing that?"

Xena stopped the horse and pulled Gabrielle to sit in front of her.

"Geez Xena, do you work out or something?"

Xena just smiled and slid the leather bands on Gabrielle's wrists, attaching the chain to each. "See, easy." She was elbowed in the stomach. "Hey." Her hand slid up and under Gabrielle's skirt. "If I remember right, you are my slave. I want you all over again and if I wish, I'll take you here and now, or whenever I want."

Gabrielle shuddered as Xena's fingers rubbed over her inner thighs. "Xena, oh that feels good." She felt soft lips at her shoulder, sucking hard.

"I have no problem leaving my mark on your beautiful skin, my love." She sucked harder till a purple X was left behind. "Now they will know who owns you."

"Its always been you, hasn't it?"

"Oh?"

"I think it was the first time I looked into your eyes. One gaze into those baby blues and I knew you had my heart." She felt Xena hold her tightly and then let go.

"Thank you."

"For what?"

"For making me feel like I have a purpose in this life."

"What do you think that purpose is?"

"Loving you."

Gabrielle turned and pulled Xena's lips down to her own and they kissed softly. Not of hunger or want, but of love and promise. "I love you Xena of Amphipolis."

"And I love you, Gabrielle of Potedia."

"all right, enough with this mushy stuff." She wiped her eyes. "You are supposed to be a big bad warlord remember. Can't go soft on me now."

"Oh that's right." She nuzzled Gabrielle's neck and pulled away, her mask in place.

***
"If you would stay still it wouldn't hurt, Xena."

"Just hurry up already."

"I'm going as fast as I can."

Gabrielle laughed at the interaction between Xena and the healer. "Be strong Xena." She laughed some more.

The healer looked up at Gabrielle and smirked. "I bet that one's trouble."

"You have no idea."

The wrappings were finished and Xena jumped to stand.

"Hey, take it easy. That hand is broken and it wasn't done gently. How did you break it?"

"Hit a wall."

"Explains it. Warriors."

Gabrielle laughed at the familiar phrase. "Can we go?"

"Yes, she just has to keep that hand out of action for a while."

"How long?" Xena sat back down.

"Can't say. You'll know when its better. Just take it easy." He turned to Gabrielle. "You can help make her take it easy."

"Yeah right, no one can make her do anything."

PART 2

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