ForevaXena's FanFic . . .

Undeniable
(Sequel To "An Answer")

by Sarah Miller

Disclaimers: 

Violence: Maybe a little but no guts, blood or anything else that is disgustingly gross.

Subtext: A friendly love. These two people love each other passionately but haven't shared more then their hearts.

Sex: No. I thought that a nice story about love would be in order here. No sex, sorry.
 

LETS GET ON WITH THE SHOW

From the bottom of my broken heart
There just one thing or two I'd like you to know
You were my first love
You were my true love
From the first kisses to the very last rose
From the bottom of my broken heart
Even though time may find me somebody new
You were my real love
I never knew love
Till there was you
From the bottom of my broken heart
 -Britney Spears-

^*^*^*^*^*
The water rippled as the wind blew across its glassy surface. The trees above shook against the movement.

A figure sighed as she moved to sit down on the soft sand lining the waters edge. As she looked into the calm lake, her thoughts drifted.

The bushes behind her moved as someone walked through them. She turned slightly, not enough to draw attention.

"Gabrielle."

At this she turned finally. "Hmm."

"I've been looking for you for awhile now. Why'd you run off?" Xena sat down next to the small woman.

"I didn't run off, I just needed a place to think."

Xena looked away, out into the water. "Care to share something with me?"

"No."

She nodded.

"I'm sorry Xena. Its just that so much has happened and I need some time to think. Its been a long time since things have been normal and now that we......." She sighed once more. "Can I just have some time to myself. I won't be long."

Xena stood. "Okay. Promise me that if you need me, you'll come find me."

Gabrielle nodded.

Xena turned to walk away and turned back to look at Gabrielle. "Some things seem more difficult then they really are. Talking helps."

Gabrielle gave a short laugh, almost a snort. "Like you would know about that. You never talk about what you are feeling." As soon as it came out, she regretted it. "Look I'm..."

"Its okay." Xena sat down. "I think that real person you are mad at is me."

"You? What did you do?"

Xena shook her head. "I haven't exactly been great to you lately. I know I don't say a lot and I'm sorry. I do try."

"I know."

They sat in silence for a while. Neither moving or making any effort to speak, as they looked out into the water.

After a while, Xena stood up. "I'll give you your time." She walked off without another word.

Gabrielle lowered her head and closed her eyes. "Why is it so difficult?"
 

^*^*^*^*^*
The next morning, Gabrielle woke up in the same mood, Xena noticed. She smiled as she handed her the sweet tea she made.

"Thanks." She just held it as she looked down into the contents.

"I can't cook, but I can still make tea." She frowned. "Gabrielle, what's wrong?"

"I'm fine." She took a sip. "Just a little tired."

Xena ignored it, for now. "I was thinking about traveling to the Amazons. See if its changed since we were last there."

Gabrielle looked up. "Sounds good."

"Great." She patted Gabrielle's knee as she stood up and walked around the fire.

Gabrielle looked around. "Where's Eve?"

"She said that she had to work things out."

"Went to talk to Meg and Virgil?"

"Yes."

"She didn't say good bye."

"You were sleeping and she didn't want to wake you."

"When will she be back?"

"Don't know. I told her that we would be at the Amazons."

Gabrielle smirked. "Oh, I see. You knew I would say yes to going there, didn't you."

"I did."

"What if I had of said no?"

"Then Eve would be in serious trouble."

Gabrielle laughed.

"Been awhile since you've done that. Its great to hear it."

Gabrielle nodded. "Great to do it."

"How bout a dip?" She took the empty cup from Gabrielle's hands. "Sound good?"

"Sounds great." She stood up and stretched out her muscles, wincing when her shoulders pulled. She felt hands at her back, massaging the tense muscles. She lowered her head and closed her eyes as the soft hands moved about her skin. She winced again as Xena dug into her shoulders.

"There?"

"There."

"Sit down." She waited and smoothed out the muscles. "These muscles look as if you have been carrying the world on your shoulders."

"I believe I have." It was no more than a whisper, but Xena heard it.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
The soft sand felt cool under her feet as she walked to the water. She closed her eyes as the breeze blew by. Looking out across the water, she sighed.

She jumped when she felt a hand at her shoulder. Turning quickly she saw Xena. "I hate it when you do that."

"Sorry. I wasn't trying to be quiet."

"Well I didn't hear you."

"Maybe its because you have had your head in the clouds lately."

Gabrielle turned away. "I know."

"My offer still stands. I'm here for you if you want to talk."

"Thank you Xena. Really I'm fine."

"I'll let it go, Gabrielle. But this discussion is not over, you got it."

"Yes sir." She saluted her.

Xena arched an eyebrow. "Excuse me."

Gabrielle cleared her throat. "Nothing." She walked forward and started to undress.

"Here, let me at least do something." She helped her unlace the backing.

Gabrielle smiled. "Thank you." Her skirt and breeches soon followed her shirt on the ground. She ran, waded in a few feet and dived under.

Xena's brow creased in confusion. "I'll get to the bottom of this, somehow." She grabbed Gabrielle's clothes from the ground and neatly stacked them on a nearby rock. After stripping herself, she dived in after her friend.

When Gabrielle surfaced, her eyes went to the shore. "She did it again." Her eyes traveled over her stacked clothing. At that moment, Xena surfaced next to her. "Why do you do that?"

"Do what?"

"Stack my clothes."

Xena shrugged.

"Oh, well, that explains it." She rolled her eyes.

"I saw that."

"Saw what?" She smiled sweetly.

"Don't you roll your eyes at me."

"And why not. Is the great white monkey, Xena going to get me." She started to laugh.

"Its been awhile since I've heard that."

Gabrielle's smile faded.

"What is it?"

"I was just thinking about Joxer."

Xena's face followed the bard's solemn expression. "I miss him too."

"I was really starting to get used to him."

Xena smiled. "Uh huh."

"No, not like that. He was a great friend."

"Yes he was, but he's not gone. He is forever in our hearts."

Gabrielle looked up and smiled. "That was beautiful."

"You aren't the only one who can be poetic."

"Oh, since when?"

"Since lately." She shrugged.

"Written any poems lately, Xena?"

"No, have you?"

"Got me there."

Xena shook her head. "Okay, lets get started." She dived under.

"Yep." She followed.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
"Hey wait up!"

"Gabrielle, if you would stop daydreaming, you could keep up."

"Oh now who's in a bad mood. I wasn't daydreaming. I was thinking."

"Well, pay attention."

"Is that a command?" She peered up at Xena and smiled. Her smiled dropped when her eyes were met with icy blue ones. "I guess so."

"Gabrielle, this is no joke. You don't keep aware of your surroundings and you could regret it."

"I....Fine. I'll pay attention." She walked ahead, then stopped to look back at Xena. "You coming?"

"Gabrielle."

She jumped awake and looked around. "Huh."

Xena was at her side. "Must have been a good one. I called you five times."

Gabrielle laid back down. "No, just a dream."

"Don't you dare close your eyes. Get up, we're heading out."

"I know, I know." She sat up and rubbed her eyes, rolling her neck around. "I feel like I slept on a rock."

"Probably did."

Gabrielle moved to the fire. "What's for breakfast?"

"Fish."

Gabrielle nodded. "Food is food." She grabbed her plate and started to eat. "Xena, what should we expect when we get there?"

"Truthfully, Gabrielle I have no idea. Its been twenty five years since we've stepped food on Amazon ground. They think we're dead."

"What if they....."

Xena laid a hand down on Gabrielle's shoulder. "I'm sure it will be okay."

Gabrielle smiled. "You know, Eve is technically, princess."

Xena smiled. "I do. Don't tell her that."

"Why not?"

"It will go to her head." She laughed.

"I'm telling her."

"I knew you would." She stood. "Come on, we're heading out."
 

^*^*^*^*^*
"Hey wait up!"

"Gabrielle, if you would stop daydreaming, you could keep up."

"Oh now who's in a bad mood. I wasn't daydreaming. I was thinking."

"Well, pay attention."

"Is that a command?" She peered up at Xena and smiled. Her smiled dropped when her eyes were met with icy blue ones. "I guess so."

"Gabrielle, this is no joke. You don't keep aware of your surroundings and you could regret it."

"I....Fine. I'll pay attention." She walked ahead, then stopped to look back at Xena. "You coming?"

Xena shook her head and followed. As she looked down at Gabrielle, she saw that the bard had paused in the middle of the road. "What is it?"

Gabrielle turned. "Xena."

"What?" The panicked look on Gabrielle's face was starting to scare her. She jumped down off Argo II and walked to her. "What is it?"

"I dreamed this last night."

"Dreamed what?"

Gabrielle rubbed her eyes. "No, no, not again."

"Gabrielle, what are you talking about. What is wrong?"

"Xena, I dreamed me yelling wait, you with a smart ass response, me....me...." She bit her lip.

"So you dreamed what happened today. Anything bad happen in this dream?"

"No."

"Then don't worry." She rubbed Gabrielle's shoulder. "All right."

Gabrielle nodded. "Yeah." She watched Xena grab the reins and walk forward. She took a deep breath. "No problem. I didn't dream anything bad. Nothing bad will happen." She smiled and followed after Xena.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
They stopped for a break a few candlemarks later.

"Sorry for scaring you earlier."

Xena looked up from her cutting. "Don't worry about it." She looked away again.

Gabrielle leaned forward and watched Xena as she cut the apple. "Thank you."

"For this?" She handed the pieces to Gabrielle.

"Yes. After all we've been through, you still cut my apples for me." She laughed.

"Well, I gotta keep my skills intact." She smiled.

Gabrielle ran a hand through her short hair.

"Why don't you go do some drills?"

"Why?"

"Get rid of that excess energy."

Gabrielle nodded as she stood. She turned to leave and turned back, a smile on her face. "Spar with me."

Xena looked up.

"Please."

"No."

"Please."

"If you want to get knocked on your ass so bad, why don't you go spar with Argo." She smiled.
"I want to spar with you so I can kick your ass." She smirked.

Xena laid down her knife and stood up. "Okay, your on."

"Thank you."

They walked to the open field.

Xena stretched.

"Come on Xena. Show me what you got."

Xena raised a brow. "Your just asking for it aren't you, bard. Don't get too cocky."

"Me? Never." She raised her weapons.

"How about a little tougher challenge."

"What did you have in mind?"

Xena unfastened her sheath and threw it to the ground, her chakrum followed. "No weapons."

Gabrielle mimicked Xena's actions. "Okay."

Xena smiled as she walked forward. "You are going to be sorry later for this."

"Stop talking and fight."

Xena brought her hand up to punch but it was shielded. She kicked Gabrielle's foot as it came at her. She lunged, grabbing Gabrielle's arm and twisting it behind her back, pulling tight enough but not enough to hurt her.

Gabrielle elbowed her in the waist, pulling her arm back. Her elbow raised to strike Xena in the face but it was shielded. She suddenly fell to the floor and looked up at Xena. She smiled as she swiped her legs under the warriors, who jumped in response.

Xena dodged a kick to her knees and flipped backwards.

Gabrielle rolled forward and rose to her feet. "Come on, Xena. Show me what your made of."

Xena smiled as she shook her head. "Very well."

As soon as the war cry sounded, she knew she was toast. She didn't see it coming, till she was flat on her back. She rubbed her arm and turned over to look behind her.

"Give up?"

Gabrielle stood. "Yeah. I'll let you win this time."

"Oh, how kind of you." She tied back on her sheath and replaced her chakrum.

Gabrielle smiled.

"Can we go back yet?"

"Yeah."

They turned to see a man standing outside the forest.

"Xena, where did he come from?"

"I didn't see him."

"Must be losing your touch."

"We'll see." She walked forward. "Can I help you?"

"Yes. I'll take those weapons, and anything else you have of value."

Xena smiled. "Are you sure you want to do that?"

"I'll ask the questions around here."

Xena tilted her head and Gabrielle realized that this man was in serious trouble.

"I have men at your camp." He drew a sword. "Don't make me use this." He turned sideways. "Get ahead of me and walk to your camp."

Xena smiled. "Oh I don't think so."

He glared. "Oh? You want to die today?"

"No, do you?"

"You have a lot of spirit. Perhaps we may have use for you." He laughed.

Xena laughed. "I don't think so." She ran a fist under his chin, and watched as he fell to the ground. She turned to Gabrielle. "Some just don't learn."

"Never will."

"Let's get to camp and handle the others."

They didn't have to go far. The men soon came towards them and stopped as they saw the two women. Their swords were drawn.

Xena stepped forward. "I'll make this easy. You give us our things, leave and I'll let you live."

They laughed.

Xena sighed. "You were warned."

One man stepped forward. "Such a pretty little thing, wearing all that armor and all. Don't look like a warrior."

"Oh?"

"No. Why don't you put that sword away and come with us. We'll show you a good time."

The men laughed.

"Sorry, but I prefer real men."

The man glared. "Listen up little lady. You were given a choice. I suggest you take it."

"I suggest you take the one I gave you."

The man turned to his squad. "Looks like we have a fighter in our hands." He turned back and ran his eyes up Gabrielle's body. "How bout you? Wanna have a little fun?"

"Yeah, when I find some, I'll be sure to accept."

"All right, we gave you two a chance, now give us your weapons and no one will get hurt." He
walked right up to Xena. "We'll let you go if you listen to us."

Xena smiled. "And if I don't?"

"Things will get ugly. I suggest you hand over the weapons. I won't ask again." His eyes ran over her body, then up to her eyes. "What's your name, beautiful?"

"Xena."

His smile dropped. "Xena huh." He tried to hide is reaction. "Well, we have plenty of weapons to cash in for today. I guess we could let you two go, just this once."

"Oh how generous."

He smiled. "Think nothing of it." He slowly backed up to his men. "Let's go." They all but ran out of there.

Gabrielle smiled and looked up at Xena. "That was weird."

"Yeah. I was looking forward to bashing some heads in." She sheathed her sword.

Gabrielle picked up their things that had been scattered. "They sure made a mess of things. I hate to see our camp."

Xena walked past her.

The camp was in one piece. Their saddlebags had been looked through, and the contents laid about everywhere. Other then that, they didn't mess with anything.

Xena cleaned up the mess. "Let's get out of here."
 

^*^*^*^*^*
They made it to Amazon borders a little before dusk.

As they walked through the forest, Xena's eyes and ears were tuned.

Gabrielle watched Xena for signs of anything. "We're almost to the village border."

Xena's head raised as a noise was heard. She didn't see a thing and tilted her head to listen.

Eight Amazons dropped down on them, swords and crossbows armed.

Xena and Gabrielle raised their arms above their heads in the Amazon greeting.

One moved forward. "Who are you, and what do you want?"

"I am Gabrielle, this is Xena. We wish passage to the village?"

The Amazon was still for a bit. "Xena and Gabrielle are dead."

Gabrielle stepped forward. "Its the truth."

The Amazon was silent. "We will see who you are." She raised her sword. "Move it."

Xena and Gabrielle walked ahead of the Amazons. A few walked in front but most were behind them.

As they reached the village gates, they heard animal calls and then the gates were opened.

Gabrielle looked around. "Its changed."

Xena nodded.

The doors closed behind them.

"Keep moving." The Amazon pushed them forward.

As they walked, Xena eyed the Amazons as they watched them walk by. No one looked familiar.

They reached the middle of the village, the queen's hut.

"Wait here." The Amazon walked inside and emerged with three others.

One walked forward. "Who are you?"

"They claim they are Xena and Gabrielle."

"Impossible. They are dead."

"No, we're not." Gabrielle looked around her.

Xena stepped forward and raised her chakrum. "My proof."

"What is that?"

"The chakrum."

"Xena didn't carry one that looked like that. No proof is made here."

Xena let out a breath. "How else do you want me to prove it?"

The woman looked around.

Gabrielle stepped forward. "I am Gabrielle. Bard of Potedia. Ex queen of the Amazons. My regent was Ephiny. I was given the right of cast by Terrais. I tried to save her life. That right was clarified by Melosa."

The woman looked around. "That information is correct."

Gabrielle smiled.

"Welcome home."

"Where is Shilopa?"

"She died. There was an attack a few years ago and she was lost to us."

Gabrielle turned to Xena, than back to the woman. "Who are you?"

"I am Serena, holding queen."

"Holding queen?"

"I am not queen, but will be if Artemis agrees."

"Oh." Gabrielle looked down. "About that." She turned to Xena.

She shook her head. "Don't worry about it Gabrielle."

Gabrielle smiled.

"We are having a festival next week. Won't you stay?"

"Sure." Gabrielle scratched her head.

"We have been reading the law scrolls. It said that you were the mother of Eve. Our princess."
Xena turned. "Yeah."

"Where is she?"

"She'll be here. Don't know when, but she will be here."

Serena grabbed Gabrielle's arm. "You must join us in the celebration tonight."

"What celebration?"

"Full moon, Amazon joining tonight. Two women will be forever intertwined."

Gabrielle smiled. "A joining ceremony. I've never been to one."

"Then we are happy to have you." She dragged Gabrielle away. "I must ask one question though."

"What?"

"How did you two get out of dying."

"Huh?"

"We heard that you two had been crucified."

"My that was some time ago. I'll tell you all about it and how we out maneuvered the gods."

Xena watched her walk off, listening to her wind into a tale. A woman to her left caught her attention. Well actually the woman was staring at her. "What?"

"I just can't believe its you. You are legendary."

"Not legendary enough." She walked off.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
The night was filled with music. The soft beat of the drums, the gentle rhythm of a flute.

Gabrielle walked out of the hut and looked around. She spotted Xena and took in her clothing. The warrior was out of the usual leather. She was clothed in a long white skirt, slit at the sides. The belt was leather and held the fabric to her hips, allowing her flat stomach to show. Her white shirt was sleeveless. It curved around her ribs, and down her cleavage. It fit perfectly. The outfit showed off all the right muscles. Her arms, legs, waist. The white clothing brought out the tan to her body.

At that moment Xena caught her eye. She gave a smile and took a look at what Gabrielle was wearing. She had a short skirt that came to mid thigh. Everything was light gray. The shirt came curving down to her belly button and up around her back. A V shape with nothing but a criss cross pattern on her back. No sleeves but it molded around her breasts as it V'd down. She looked absolutely stunning.

Gabrielle sat down next to her and watched the Amazons dancing about. "Brings back memories doesn't it?"

"Being here again? Yes it does."

"Its looks different but its the same."

"Your hut is still here."

"Not mine anymore. Occupied."

"Sorry."

"Not a problem. I didn't expect things to stay the same." She looked down.

Xena grabbed her hand and held it in hers. "Things will get better."

Gabrielle looked up. "I hope so. I so afraid to go home."

"Why?"

"I'm afraid my parents won't be there, or how it might have changed. Everyone seems to die."

"That is how things happen. Nothing can change that."

"I know."

"I know how you feel. I want to go home by I'm afraid as well."

Gabrielle smiled. "Lets not sit here and mope around at this party. Lets have fun." She stood. "Dance with me."

"No."

"Please."

Xena took one look into those pleading eyes and gave in. "All right." She was pulled to her feet by Gabrielle and pulled out onto the dance floor.

The music was strong and fast. As they stepped into the flow of dancers, the music stopped and changed rhythm. What was once a fast beat, soon became a slow one.

Gabrielle pulled Xena close and laid her head down on Xena's chest.

As she got caught up in the music she started to move with the beat. Laying her head down onto Gabrielle's head, she closed her eyes and got lost in the music.

Serena watched from the table, a smile on her face. "Well done, well done."
 

^*^*^*^*^*
The time came for the joining couple to take their place on the stone platform.

The Amazons lined around, watching.

The priestess walked up the stairs slowly. As she reached the top, she turned and looked down at the crowd. "Amazons we are here tonight to join Lycia and Samaria forever. Love is a fragile thing. It may be joined forever, or taken from us. Not everyone is lucky enough to find their soul mate, but these two women did. They want to join in front of their family and friends. Let us share this joy with them." She turned to the two women. "Are you ready?"

They nodded.

The priestess nodded. "Under Artemis's moon, I will ask you to say the vows, that you have written."

Lycia walked forward and grabbed Samaria's hand. "I love you now and forever. I will never leave you, hurt you, or cause you to lose trust in me. I will forever be with you for everyday I breathe. I love you completely and never will lose that love."

Samaria wiped her face and grabbed Lycia's hand. "I fell in love with you the first time I saw you. I couldn't imagine that I would have a chance with you. I never thought that I would have your heart. You had mine the first time you spoke. I have no words to say how much I love and need you, but I will spend my life trying to show you. My love will not stray, and I will never stop loving you. You are my soul mate and you own me completely. Mind, body, and soul." She wiped the tears from Lycia's eyes.

The priestess grabbed their hand and closed her eyes. "I ask you Artemis to bless this union. Make it strong and everlasting." She bowed her head and said a silent prayer.

When she opened her eyes, the Amazons cheered.

"So it is done. Samaria and Lycia are forever joined in this life and the next."
Samaria and Lycia walked down the steps both crying.

The Amazons watched as they walked to their hut and the party resumed its celebration.
Gabrielle turned to Xena. "That was beautiful."

Xena smiled. "Yes it was." She turned to Gabrielle. "She was right."

"Who?"

"The priestess. Not everyone is lucky enough to find their soul mate." She turned and walked away.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Gabrielle woke up and looked over at Xena, who was sleeping. She looked around the dark hut and stood up, walking to Xena. She sat down on the bed and stroked the warrior's face.

Xena opened one eye. "Something wrong?"

"No."

"Sure?"

"Yeah. I couldn't sleep."

"Have a dream?"

"No."

"Hear a noise?"

"No."

"Then what?"

"I just woke up." She stroked Xena's face again. "I just wanted to make sure you were here?"

"I'm not going anywhere."

"You've said that before."

"I mean it this time."

Gabrielle pushed a strand of dark hair behind one ear.

"Sure there's nothing wrong?"

"Do I need a reason to touch you?"

"No, but you've never touched me like this."

"I know. I should more often, you are so beautiful." She wiped the tear from her face. "I love you, Xena."

"I love you too."

Gabrielle woke up and looked around her hut. It was silent and empty. She stood up and walked out into the night.

As she neared Xena's hut, she stopped. She wanted to go in, yet didn't."

"Come on it, Gabrielle."

Gabrielle walked in and looked at Xena confused. "How did you know it was me?"

Xena smiled. "Sixth sense, I guess. Why are you up?" She sat up and leaned back against her pillows.

"I couldn't sleep."

"Have a dream?"

"No."

"Hear a noise?"

Gabrielle smiled. "No." She sat down on Xena's bed. "I'm not used to sleeping by myself."

Xena laughed slightly. "I thought you'd say that." She raised up the blankets.

Gabrielle didn't have to be told twice. She crawled in and snuggled into the warrior's side.

Xena slid down, holding Gabrielle against her as she drifted off.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Morning found the two women intertwined. Gabrielle's leg was thrown over Xena's, who had crossed hers around Gabrielle's at the ankle. Their arms were wrapped around each other. Gabrielle's head lay on Xena's chest.

When Xena woke up, she noticed two things. One, she couldn't move. And two, Gabrielle was sprawled across her. She shook her head as she tried to pry herself out of the bard's grip. When she stood, she covered Gabrielle up and than walked outside.

She was greeted by Serena. "Good morning, Xena. Did you sleep well?"

"Yes, thank you."

"I bet you're hungry."

"Yeah, how did you....."

"Just a lucky guess. Come on, I'll show you the way." She led her away.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Gabrielle woke up to an empty bed. Her arm reached out instinctively, to find nothing. She raised her head and looked around the room. She saw Xena's weapons on the table. Her leather and armor were there as well.

She stood and rubbed her eyes as she looked at a mirror. After making sure no hair was sticking up, she walked outside.

The day was beautiful. The sky was blue and the air was warm.

A woman walked to her. "Gabrielle."

She turned. "Yes."

"I am Larissa. May I take you to the dinning hut?"

"Uh, yeah, thanks." She was led off.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Xena looked up to see Gabrielle walk in. "Morning."

Gabrielle nodded as she took a seat next to Xena. "Larissa said you were here."

Xena nodded. "Sleep well?"

"Yeah, thanks."

"No problem. Ever need a pillow again, just call."

"Huh? I used you as a pillow?"

"I woke up and had a bit of trouble getting out of bed. You must of had a bad dream. Everything was connected. Your arms, legs and body." She turned to Gabrielle. "Didn't want me to go anywhere huh."

"Guess not." She laughed. "Sorry bout that."

"No problem. Kept me warm. You stole the blankets too."

Gabrielle laughed again. "I'm so sorry."

"Don't worry about it."

Gabrielle stood. "What do you want to eat?"

"Just get double what you get."

"But that doesn't leave you any."

Xena smiled. "Just go."

Gabrielle walked to the food table and filled a plate, then filled another. As she walked to the table, a commotion was heard outside. She saw Xena get up and walk out. She set down the plates and followed.

She saw a group of Amazons huddled together. A familiar face popped out of the crowd.

"Eve." She gathered her in a hug.

"Gabrielle help me here."

"Why?"

She looked around at the Amazons. "Do I have to explain things?"

"Well what happened?"

"I told them my name and they surrounded me."

"Oh, don't worry."

"Too late."

Xena walked into the crowd. "Eve, get everything settled?"

"Yeah. Only so much I can do right?"

"Right." She hugged her daughter and moved off.

Serena came up to them. "So this is Eve. We've been waiting for you."

Eve glared. "Why?"

Xena patted her shoulder. "Don't worry."

"You are just in time. As princess, you will be a great importance in our coming festival."

"Princess?"

Gabrielle moved closer. "I gave you my right of caste when you were just a baby. That means that you are now their princess. Next in line to be queen."

"Whoa, wait a minute. I'm an Amazon princess." She smiled. "Great joke."

"No joke."

"Gabrielle, that is just a bit to hard to believe."

"I know, but its true."

Eve turned to Xena. "She's serious?"

"Yes."

Eve turned to Serena. "Do I have to stay here?"

"No. When you become queen, you will choose someone to rule in your place while you are gone."

Gabrielle smiled. "Like I did."

"Who was yours?"

"Ephiny."

"What is the festival about?"

"Amazon rights."

"Huh?"

"Where I become lawful queen and choose a champion."

Eve looked around her. "Can I go now?"

The group moved and thinned out.

Xena smiled. "I think she gets it."

"Yeah but does she want it." Gabrielle laughed.

"Does it matter?"

"True." They turned and watched Eve walk away.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
"So, have you had anymore dreams come true?"

"No."

"Good."

"I wonder what the point of it all was."

"It happens every once in a while."

"Oh, when do you do it?"

"I don't."

"Okay then."

Xena pushed Gabrielle off the log. She laughed as she heard the loud splash.

Gabrielle sloshed out of the water. "Xena, that was very cruel."

"I thought it was pretty funny."

Gabrielle started to move onto the log. "You had better run, warrior."

"From you? I don't think so." She flipped up into the trees.

"That's cheating."

Xena hung down, her legs wrapped around a limb. "Why?"

"Because I can't do it."

"So." She dodged a stick. "Hey watch it."

"I was. Hold still." She aimed and threw another one.

Xena caught it and flipped down off the branch, landing smoothly onto the ground. "Now its your turn to run."

Gabrielle stepped forwards. "I'm not scared of you."

Xena lunged and picked Gabrielle up, throwing her over her shoulders. "Now what do you think?"

"Your a barbarian."

"Hush." She smacked Gabrielle's bottom hard.

"Ouch!" She felt another one. "I'm going to hurt you." Another one. She shut up.

"Okay then." She walked to the water and threw Gabrielle in.

"You're a barbarian."

"Yeah, but I'm not the one soaking wet, now am I?"

"Ha ha." She rose and walked out of the water, flicking water at Xena as she passed.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Gabrielle spotted Eve sitting around the bonfire. "Eve."

Silence.

She walked closer and took a seat next to her on the bench. "Haven't seen you around lately?"

"I've been busy. These Amazons hardly give me any time to myself."

"Sorry, they kind of grow on you after awhile."

"I know." She looked around her.

"Have you given any thought to staying here?"

Eve looked at her. "Yeah."

"And?"

Eve smiled. "I've never had a place that I felt I belonged to. Now I do. There something telling me to stay here and I think I will." She nodded. "Is that bad?"

"No, if this makes you happy then you should stay."

"What about you and mother?"

"We'll leave, travel, visit our families and friends, then I don't know what."

"Will you come back and visit me?"

"Of course. Your the only daughter I have left."

Eve looked at her confused.

Gabrielle smiled. "I had a daughter. Her name was Hope, and that's what she was. My hope."

"What happened?"

"I was taken in the temple of Dayhok. He gave me a child and she was evil. I thought I could change her, but I couldn't. She almost tore Xena and I apart."

"How?"

"Hope killed Solan."

"Solan?"

"Your brother."

Eve looked down. "But you got through that. What happened to Hope?"

"She had to be stopped and I was the one to stop her."

"You killed her?"

"Yes."

"I'm sorry."

"Its okay. The pain is there sometimes, but not as fresh." She felt a hand on her shoulder and didn't need to look to know it was Xena. "I was telling Eve about Hope."

"I heard."

Gabrielle turned to Eve, but she wasn't there. "Where did she go?"

"To leave us alone." She sat down next to Gabrielle.

Gabrielle turned to look at Xena. "Thank you."

"For what?"

"For everything." She leaned against Xena and closed her eyes when she felt arms go around her.

"Your welcome."
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Gabrielle woke up an hour before dawn. She reached out her hand to touch something she knew wasn't there. She opened her eyes when she felt warmth. "Xena." The warrior was asleep next to her.

Xena didn't stir.

Gabrielle watched as she took breath after breath. She had no idea how long she was there, just watching, and she really didn't care.

Xena opened her eyes to see Gabrielle looking at her. "Morning." She noticed that Gabrielle didn't respond. "Something the matter?"

Gabrielle shook her head.

Xena could see tears outlining the bard's face and pulled her down into her arms. She held her and heard Gabrielle start to cry. She had no idea what was wrong but was going to find out.

When the crying had stopped, Gabrielle didn't move.

Xena held her for a while and decided to find out what was the problem. "Gabrielle." No answer. "Gabrielle." She smiled when she heard the soft snore come from the woman. She shook her head and closed her eyes.

There was a knock to the hut.

"Come."

Eve walked in, her eyes traveling to Gabrielle.

Xena read the question, and curiosity in those brown eyes. "She's okay."

Eve nodded and sat down. "I talked to Gabrielle yesterday. I'm not sure if she told you, but I'm staying here."

"We talked about it."

"And?"

"And what? Its your decision."

"But I need to know if you approve."

"Its not up to me to approve your decisions. I think its great that you want to stay here. The Amazons are great people. The choice is yours."

Eve turned away. "There are times that I am happy to stay, and then there are times, where I question my choice."

"You have plenty of time to decide."

"The thing holding me back...well one thing, is that I'm not one for staying in one place too long."

Xena smiled. "You don't. You are allowed to leave whenever you want."

"I am?"

"Yes, Gabrielle hardly ever stayed here, yet she was queen. Ephiny held her mask while she was gone."

Eve smiled. "Then I think I've made my decision."

"What is it?"

"I'll stay." She stood. "Thank you."

"Your welcome." She watched as Eve slipped out of the hut. She rolled Gabrielle over and smiled as the woman curled up to her. "What am I going to do with you?" She brushed the hair out of Gabrielle face and sighed.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Gabrielle watched as Xena talked to a group of Amazons. Her curiosity was hitting her but she somehow managed to stay put, confident that Xena would tell her later.

She looked down at her fingernails and concentrated at getting the dirt out from under them. She didn't hear Xena come up in front of her but saw the shadow.

"You've been quiet lately."

"Not really, you just haven't been around me all day." She looked up.

Xena looked down. "You're right. I'll make it up to you though."

"How?"

Xena raised her head proud, big smile on her face. "I have an idea." She looked towards the dinning hut.

Gabrielle followed her gaze and watched as several Amazons came out, holding a big platter. There was a huge metal covering over it so she couldn't see what it was.

As they drew near, Gabrielle and Xena stood up.

Gabrielle gasped when the covering was pulled away to reveal a large ham. She felt a hand at her shoulder and turned to smile at Xena. She noticed Xena was holding a platter too.

Xena pulled the lid off and watched Gabrielle's eyes twinkle as she saw the nut bread. "Am I forgiven?"

Gabrielle laughed and pulled her friend into a hug.

Xena leaned closer and took in the scent of the ham. "Shall we eat?"
 

^*^*^*^*^*
The night of the party came soon. A party where there would be dancing, music, and Eve's presentation of the Queen's mask.

Gabrielle spotted Xena standing in the dark as usual. She shook her head and grabbed two mugs from a passing tray and headed towards Xena. "Having fun oh great warrior?"

Xena shrugged.

"Better get in a good mood. Eve sees you like this, she's liable to smack you upside the head." She laughed and handed Xena the mug.

"Thanks."

"Welcome."

Xena just looked down into the wine.

"Something wrong?"

"No."

"Then why are you studying the wine. I'm sure it hasn't got any bugs in it yet."

Xena looked up at her. "Sure?"

Gabrielle looked down at her own drink. "I hope not."

Xena chuckled.

"Oh, I'm funny to you am I?"

"Yes."

Gabrielle set down her drink and turned to the warrior. She grabbed Xena's drink, noting that the warrior let her and held in her hands, before flipping it up at her. The wine went all over Xena's face. Gabrielle started laughing. "Now that's funny."

"You won't think so after I dunk you in the river, bard."

Gabrielle straightened up. "Come and get me, warrior." She took off in a mad dash into the woods. She could feel the warrior behind her but couldn't hear a thing. She stopped near the river and turned around. No Xena in sight. Not surprising. She looked up just in time to see Xena jump down and push her up against a tree.

"Now what do you think is funny?"

"You."

"Oh, then I guess I'm going to have to make you change your mind." She hoisted Gabrielle over her shoulders and threw her into the water.

Gabrielle walked out, sloshing all the way. She turned and glared at the warrior. "You're toast."

"I'm scared."

Gabrielle lunged for her and hit the dirt, when Xena stepped aside. She stood up again and brought her hands out. "Come an get me princess."

Xena smiled and bent, pulling Gabrielle's legs out from under her. "Now's who's on the ground?"

Gabrielle brought her legs up behind Xena, knocking the warrior down on top of her. "You."

"Clever."

"I was trained by the best."

"And who might that be?"

"Oh, just some old warlord, you wouldn't be interested."

"Oh really." She tickled the bard, till there were tears in those green eyes. "Now what do you think?"

"I still think you're funny."

Xena shrugged, and stood up. "Can't win em all."

Gabrielle stood, wiping the dirt off of her butt.

"I still haven't gotten you for spilling my drink all over me."

"Yeah, yeah." She started walking and was pulled back behind Xena. She pushed the warrior aside and walked ahead.

Xena grabbed her by the back of the neck and pushed her to the side.

"Don't start this again, Xena."

"Already did." She was tackled to the ground.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Eve raised her eye brows as she watched Gabrielle and Xena walk into the party. Both were covered in dirt, and both were drenched. She stood and walked to the pair. "Who won?"

Both were silent.

"I take it it was a equal match?"

"Something like that." Xena wrung her hair out. "I'm going to get dressed." She looked down at herself. "And dried."

Gabrielle followed.

Eve shook her head and sat back down.

Gabrielle walked into the hut and caught a greave as it was thrown at her. "Hey!"

"If you hadn't started this, we wouldn't of had to change." She turned, the look on her face.

"I didn't see you stopping it."

"I had to teach you a lesson."

"And who fell into the water?"

"You pushed me."

"I did not. You lost your balance. Admit it."

"All right." She fumbled with the laces to her leather. "Help me."

Gabrielle walked forward and tugged at the laces, till they were loose. "What will you wear?"

Xena looked around. "The Amazons left me an outfit. I guess that will have to do, till I can get my leathers cleaned and dried."

"Shall I draw you a hot bath?"

Xena smiled. "Yes."

Gabrielle nodded, giving a eye roll, and walked out the door.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
The water felt good against their skin.

Gabrielle leaned back against the side. "How long till Eve gets her mask?"

"Few candle marks. We still have plenty of time."

"Xena, Gabrielle!" someone called from the door. Serena walked in. "I heard about your....." She didn't know what to call it.

"You mean my abuse from a certain warrior." Gabrielle smiled till she was slapped on the arm. "Ow." She smiled.

Serena walked forward. "Do you have clothes?"

"Xena does, but I don't."

"I'll get you something then, how long?"

"I'm getting out of here now."

Serena walked to the door. "I'll be right back then." She left.

Gabrielle dried herself off just as Serena came back with her clothes. "Thank you." She watched the woman walk out, before examining the clothing. There was a normal skirt, like her old brown one, a brown leather top, a necklace, and boots.

Xena grabbed her bundle of clothes and took a look. She had practically the same thing as Gabrielle, except her necklace was different. She looked up. "I guess we better hurry." She slipped on her skirt and breeches, and fastened the belt. She grabbed the top and slipped it over her shoulders, tying it in the back. She turned towards Gabrielle, who was already dressed and was working on her boots. "How did you get dressed so fast?"

"Don't think you're the only one with skills Xena." She looked back at her boots.

Xena picked up the necklace. "This necessary?"

"Yes."

Xena sighed and hooked it on. She turned to the mirror and smiled.

Gabrielle came up behind her. "You look good." She eyed the warrior. "Xena how is it you keep your stomach tan?"

"Lay out in the nude." She walked away from the mirror.

"Oh?"

"Ready?"

"Yeah."

They walked out and saw Eve waiting for them.

Eve raised a brow at her mother.

"Don't even start."

"I wasn't. You look good. You too Gabrielle."

Gabrielle smiled. "Thank you."

Eve settled herself in the middle of the two and grabbed an arm with each hand. "Shall we." She led them away.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Eve walked towards the Alter, glancing around to look at the Amazons. As she took a step up, Serena was at her side.

"No worries princess, you'll be fine." She smiled warmly, laying a gentle hand on her shoulder.

"I'm not sure of this."

"You'll be fine." She followed her to the top.

Eve  turned around, looking out at the Amazons.

Gabrielle was suddenly at her side. "I've been here before, relax."

A woman came up the steps, holding a mask.

Eve's jaw dropped. "That's mine?"

"As soon as its on your head it is."

Eve grabbed it when it was held out to her and studied it for a minute before sliding it over her head.

The Amazons cheered.

Eve tilted the mask up and smiled.

Xena walked up the stairs and stood between Eve and Gabrielle. "Congratulations."

"Thank you."

"Now the feast," yelled Serena.

Xena leaned down to Gabrielle's ear. "I'm surprised you didn't say it." She was elbowed in the side.

Gabrielle walked down the steps.

"Where are you going?" Eve asked.

"I'll be right back."
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Xena looked up in time to see Gabrielle walk into the hut. "Everything all right?"

"Yeah." She took a seat next to the warrior. A plate was pushed in front of her. "Thanks." She felt a hand on her arm.

"Something is wrong."

"I'm fine."

"No you're not."

Gabrielle looked up into Xena's eyes. "I'll talk to you later." She pulled her arm away only to have it yanked back.

"No, you'll tell me now." She looked down at Gabrielle's hand to see a small silver ring on a finger.

Gabrielle smiled. "Remember these?"

"Yes. I still don't know where they came from." She turned away and felt a ring slid on her finger. "Gabrielle." She turned back around to see Gabrielle looking down at her own ring.

"They're so perfect. No marks, scratches, anything. As if given by a god." She smiled. "That would explain the mystery of how they got here." She heard a metal ping and looked up to see Xena's ring spinning on the table. Her eyes traveled to Xena, who finished her drink in one gulp and stood up, leaving the hut.

Gabrielle stared at the ring for who knows how long before she grabbed it and left the hut.

Xena wasn't far. Gabrielle could see her walking ahead. "Xena."

Silence.

"Xena."

"Stop and talk to me."

Silence.

"Dammit, Xena, I deserve an explanation."

Xena whirled around, heading for the bard. She drew closer and grabbed Gabrielle, pulling her into a fiery kiss, before walking away, leaving Gabrielle speechless and wide eyed.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Gabrielle woke the next morning alone as usual. What wasn't usual was the fact that Xena hadn't been there all night. She stood and walked out of the hut into the rain. She gasped as the water drenched her in seconds. "Great, just great."

She was about to go back inside, when she spotted Xena at the training grounds. Before she knew it, she was standing there with all the Amazons, watching Xena drill.

As Gabrielle stood watching, a realization came to her and she left.

Xena looked up to see Gabrielle walking away. She picked up her chakrum and walked off the field after her.

Gabrielle had just pulled some dry clothes out of a drawer, when Xena walked in. She sensed more then heard her come in.

Neither spoke.

Gabrielle shook her head and unlaced her shirt, sliding it over her head. Her skirt followed as well as her breeches. She paused and turned her head. "You come here for a reason or did you just plan to watch me dress?"

Xena walked out.

Gabrielle lowered her head and sighed as she continued to dress.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Eve couldn't understand the change in attitude between the two women. She spotted her mother sitting near the river. "Why are you hiding?"

"Who said I was hiding?"

"No one." When Xena made no move to talk, she sat down next to her. "You know you can talk to me."

Xena looked up.

"I'm serious. You two were having fun picking on each other. Now its as if you were total strangers."

"Things change." Her head lowered.

"What happened?"

"I...." She saw nothing but caring in her daughter's eyes. "I kissed Gabrielle."

"Yes! Finally. And?"

"And we haven't spoken since."

"Why not?"

Xena stood. "Don't you have a meeting to get to?"

Eve stood. "Don't change the subject."

Silence.

Eve shrugged and walked off.

Xena leaned against a tree and closed her eyes.
 

^*^*^*^*^*
Gabrielle saw Xena enter the barn and jumped when a hand was felt at her shoulder. "Hi Eve."

"How'd you know it was me?"

"Only two people can sneak up on me and the other one is in the barn."

Eve laughed.

"So what's on your mind?"

"My mother. What's the deal with you two?"

"Its complicating?"

"Complicating?"

"It must be cause I don't even understand it."

"I see. She told me she kissed you."

"Yes, and hasn't said a word to me since."

"Give her some time."

"Its been a week."

"Why don't you leave. Traveling together, there's no way she can't talk to you."

"Wanna bet." She turned to the barn. "Its looks like she already planned on leaving." Her eyes swept over what was on the saddle. "It also looked like I'm not going with her."

Eve patted Gabrielle's shoulder and walked to Xena. "Where are you going?"

"Does it matter?"

"Obviously not." She walked off.

Gabrielle walked behind Xena. "Were you planning on saying good bye?"

Silence.

"That's what I thought." She looked up at the warrior. "After all we've been through, you'd leave just like that?"

Silence.

"I always thought you were strong and brave. Now I realize that you are a coward." She turned to leave but Xena grabbed her arm, turning her around.

"I'm not afraid of anything."

"Yes you are. You've defeated tons of warlords but don't have the guts to tell me good bye." Gabrielle watched Xena's face. "I thought it would take more to split us up. Even Illusia wasn't enough." She pulled her arm free and stepped back. "You kissed me. Is that so bad? You could at least tell me why?"

Xena met her eyes. "I....I can't." She jumped up onto Argo and galloped away without so much as a glance behind her.

Gabrielle watched her go. "Yeah.....I love you too."

THE END

Continued in the story "Realizations"

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