ForevaXena's FanFic . . .

Winning With Love

by Sarah Miller

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Enjoy

Part 1

Xena entered the stables, her eyes searching for Argo. "Hey girl." She walked forward, her hand rose to run down the slope of the animal’s nose. Leaning forward, she kissed the soft fur.

"Careful, I might get jealous."

Xena smiled. "Doubt it." She turned.

"How can you be so sure?"

Xena shook her head. "Where's her saddle?"

"Right there."

"No, the one she came in with."

Gabrielle scrunched up her brows. "There wasn't one."

Xena straightened. "Where's Ephiny?"

"Eating why?"

Xena rushed out of the stables, Gabrielle in tow.

Ephiny looked up to see two women running in. "What's wrong?"

Xena leaned on the table, arms out in front of her. "Who found me?"

"Geri why?"

"Who were all with her?"

"The morning squad, what does this all have to do with..."

"The last time I remember being on Argo, she had her saddle. Her original saddle. But when she came in here, there wasn't one. Sound fishy to you?"

Ephiny's brow rose. "So you're telling me something happened to it."

"I think it was cut."

"Why do you think that?"

"Because I remember hitting my head. I might have fallen from the saddle while riding. With help."

"Well what about your other injuries?"

"Hadn't gotten that far. One thing at a time."

"I'll send a patrol to survey the area you were found. Do you remember where you fell?"

Xena shook her head.

Ephiny stood. "Try to remember what you can." She left the hut.

Gabrielle turned to Xena. "So someone is trying to get rid of you."

Xena looked down. "Looks that way."

"Do you know anyone who wants you dead?"

Xena chuckled. "Half of Greece."

"Well that narrows it down."

"I'll get to the bottom of this, one way or another."

"What can I do to help?"

"You've done more than I can ask." She turned to go but felt a hand on her arm.

"You're leaving aren't you?"

"Can't stay forever."

Gabrielle lowered her arm and lowered her head.

Xena hooked a finger under Gabrielle's chin and looked into her eyes. "I have to go back. We both know that I don't belong here."

"And if I go with you?"

Xena shook her head. "Your place is here with your Amazons."

Gabrielle stepped back. "Fine." She brushed past Xena and walked out.

Xena shook her head and sat down, letting a sigh slip through her lips.

======

Gabrielle threw a rock, watching it fly through the air. She closed her eyes when she heard the light splash. Shaking it off, she laid down and felt the soft grass against her bare skin. The nice cool water had helped her wind down and now as she sat drying in the grass, her thoughts drifted to the dark woman.

A noise made her raise her head and look around. Grabbing her clothes, she slipped her shirt on and tied it quickly. Tilting her head, she listened once more. Silence. She shook her head as she rose and slipped on her skirt. She had just fastened the ties, when Xena popped in through the bushes. She jumped and glared at the woman in front of her. "What did I say about that?"

"Sorry. I thought you heard me."

"Oh yeah." She slipped on her sandals. "When? Before or after I was dressed?"

Xena looked down. "Look, I'm sorry about earlier."

"No, I am. It was stupid to think that I could keep you here. You have a job and you can't just stop that." She sat down and crossed her legs.

Xena sat down in front of her. "If I could have it any other way I would. I would never have become the Conqueror."

Gabrielle shook her head. "But then we never would have met." She heard Xena take a deep breath. "When?"

"Tonight."

Gabrielle nodded. "What about your saddle?"

"Well I'll just have to keep it a secret that I'm still alive for awhile."

"Then where will you go?"

Xena shrugged. "I don't know."

"You could stay here while you find out who tried to kill you."

"I know but somehow I know that wouldn't be a good idea."

Gabrielle nodded again. "I know." She looked up at her, her mouth opening, but no words coming out. "I know you won't believe me but I care what happens to you."

"I know." She turned. "I think you're the only one who does." She took a deep breath and studied the woman next to her. Such soft features. Soft soul. She doesn't need me. I can only bring her darkness. She stood. "I'll see you later."

"No, you won't." She looked up. "You'll leave without saying goodbye...again." Her eyes closed. You will not cry. Standing up, she wiped her eyes and turned to go but felt a hand on her arm. Turning her head she looked up at Xena. "You look confused."

"I am." She pulled Gabrielle to her and held her with the small woman's head tucked safely under her chin.

======

Holding the bridle in her hand, her eyes turned towards the village center. A party was going on to celebrate their success. Looking down, she set the bridle across the railing. Patting Argo softly, she shook her head and headed out.

There weren't any decorations yet but plenty of food was being set out. Torches were lit throughout the area and music was playing lightly.

Gabrielle saw the warrior exit the stables and stood up. Walking toward her, she studied the confused look on her face. "You okay?"

"Fine." She wiped the dirt from her hands onto her pants. "Gonna be a great party."

"I hope so." She turned to look at it. "Always an excuse for a party." Turning back. "Not that you aren't important. This is a reason for a party I mean, you saved our ass."

"Might not be over yet."

"I know, so why leave now."

"I have to."

Gabrielle reached up to caress Xena's cheek. Watching the warrior's eyes close, she leaned up. Feeling Xena's breath on her lips, she closed her eyes.

"Gabrielle."

They jumped back. Gabrielle turned to see Ephiny. "What?"

"We need your help."

"With what?"

"You said you'd help us with the dessert." She shook her head and shrugged. "Didn't you?"

"I did." She turned to Xena. "Sorry."

"Its okay." She smiled and brushed past her.

Gabrielle sighed. "Thanks Eph."

"What?" She looked back and forth between the two. "Oh. Look, I'm sorry I didn't..."

Gabrielle held up a hand. "Its okay, lets get this over with so she can leave us."

Ephiny watched her walk off and sighed. "I'm sorry Gabrielle."

======

Gabrielle rolled over, groaning when she opened her eyes to get a good look at the sun. Rolling onto her back, she stared up at the ceiling and quickly sat up. Looking around the room, she grabbed her shift and threw it on as she left her hut. Her eyes scanned the village. It was quiet. Most of the warriors were in their huts with hangovers. Running as fast as she could to the stables, she nearly knocked over a warrior as she threw open the doors and looked for the familiar mare.

Her heart dropped when she saw that the stall was empty. Dropping to her knees, she lowered her head to the ground and cried.

And that was how Ephiny found her. Curled up against a hale bale. "What's wrong?" She kneeled next to the crying woman. Raising her head she looked toward the stall. "Oh. Gods Gabrielle, I'm sorry." She stroked the honey colored head. "You know this is best."

"Do I?" She raised her tear stained, red eyes to her. "Why didn't anyone wake me?"

"You were tired. Would it have been better if you were here?"

Gabrielle shook her head. "No."

"It would have been harder to see her go, knowing there wasn't anything you could do about it."

"But I deserved that chance." She stood and pushed Ephiny's arms off of her. "Leave me alone."

Ephiny watched her Queen walk out with a heavy heart. "This is going to take a long time."

Six Months Later

Gabrielle leaned heavily on her staff, watching the warrior's spar in the field. She heard someone come up next to her and smiled. "Hey Eph."

"Morning. You're up awfully early."

"Yeah, well I couldn't sleep."

"Neither could I."

"How long till he gets here?"

"Two days, maybe less, maybe more. We don't know."

"You can't find him."

Ephiny looked down. "Our scouts have lost sight of him."

Gabrielle lowered her head in defeat. "Then that's it. We have to leave." She looked up.

"We can take him on. Amazons never run."

"No, they fight to the death, that's why there are only a handful left." She stood up. "We leave tonight. And that's an order." She walked off.

Ephiny smiled. "Welcome back my Queen." She headed off.

Gabrielle stopped at her hut and leaned against it. Wincing, she grabbed her ankle and rubbed it. Her head thumped back against the hut. "Stupid timing." She shook her head and leaned on her staff, supporting her ankle more. Walking into her hut, she sat down and propped her leg up. It would probably be the last time she would get in a long time.

======

Gabrielle looked back; warriors were scattered across the valley behind her. Turning away, she sighed. "Do we stand a chance Eph?"

"We'll find some place. No worries."

"But I am worried. I'm so worried that I can't breathe. We have no idea where he is. For all we know we could be heading right for him. Amazons on a platter." She shook her head. "I wish she hadn't left."

"Well she did. She left without a word and we haven't heard from her in six months. She doesn't care, let her go."

She saw it coming before she stopped talking but jumped just the same when that soft hand struck her across the mouth. "I'm sorry." She looked down.

"She may have left but she tried to help us."

"I just wish that you'd let her go."

"I'm trying. Believe me I am, but just when I think she's gone, there she is again. Just give me some time okay."

Ephiny smiled. "I'm here for you."

"I know, and thank you."

Ephiny looked behind her. "Aren't much of us left but we're strong as ever."

"Yes. I just don't want to see anyone else hurt."

Ephiny nodded and looked down. "How’s the ankle?"

"Fine."

"Truth?"

"No. It hurts like you wouldn't believe." She looked down. "I think its swelling again."

Ephiny nodded. "We'll stop after dark and I'll check it."

"Thanks." She raised it higher in the saddle. "If I weren't so stupid."

Ephiny chuckled. "It wasn't stupid. How could you know that this would happen?"

"I know."

"We all had fun."

"It was too high and not deep enough."

"You're lucky that's all you hurt. Now stop complaining. You have a nation to run."

She grunted. "Right."

"We may not have our lands but we are still united together in bond." She reached forward and grabbed Gabrielle's hand. "Okay?"

Gabrielle nodded. "Yes." She squeezed the hand and let it go to grab hold of the saddle horn. "I still hate these things."

"I know."

======

Gabrielle sat up and looked around the camp. Her mind echoed voices from a distant dream. Laying her head back down she closed her eyes and tried to relax. Her thoughts drifted to a certain warrior.

She shook her head trying to clear her thoughts and sat up again. Running her fingers through her hair, she sat up and slid the shift over her head. She saw Ephiny sitting near her fire. "Morning." She crawled forward.

"Not really. More like evening."

"Really, I must not have slept that long."

Ephiny shook her head. "Only a few hours actually." She handed Gabrielle a leg.

"You caught dinner?"

"I did. I cooked it too although I'm not sure its edible."

"Its food." She took a bite. "That's all that matters." Taking a seat next to the regent, she relaxed.

"Bad dreams."

"Why do you ask?"

"You were tossing a lot."

"Yeah."

"Her?"

"Yeah." She grabbed a water skin. "Can't seem to stop dreaming about her. Or thinking. My dreams come to me in the day even." She shook her head. "Its bad."

"Love will do that to you."

Gabrielle wasn't sure she heard her right. "What?"

"I said love will..." She was cut off.

"Who said anything about love?"

"Come on Gabrielle. You may be able to fool yourself, but you can't fool me." She smiled. "Lighten up."

Gabrielle snorted. "Yeah right. We're running for our life, don't know where we're going, and you tell me to lighten up. Right." She stood up and felt a hand on her calf.

"Its okay to love you know."

"Yeah but if it’s her."

Ephiny shrugged. "You love who you love. The question is, does she love you."

Gabrielle shook her head. "I can honestly say no to that one." She limped into the dark.

======

Two days later had them leaving the valley. The hills stood before them and they stopped to make camp before they headed up.

"Think he's after us."

"If not him, then someone else to find our location." She patted Gabrielle's shoulder. "Relax. We'll be fine as soon as we get out of this open ground."

"Then we should keep going."

"No, we need to rest. We've been walking all day and night, and I don't know about you, but I'm tired. I don't think it’s a good idea to go climbing the hills. We need rest."

Gabrielle sat down. "I don't feel safe here."

"I know."

"It’s just." She looked around. The full moon highlighted everything. "Are these campfires going to be a problem?"

"Probably, but right now who cares. It’s cold at the foot of the hills. The snow level is dropping fast and I will probably hit us in a few days if we don't leave."

"But the campfires. Won't someone see them?"

"Yes."

"And?"

"We can't help that now." She threw another log onto the fire. "Try and get some sleep. I'll watch you."

Gabrielle sighed. "I have a bad feeling."

"It'll pass."

She nodded. "You're right. I'm just tense about this whole deal." She nodded again. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight. Sweet dreams."

"Yeah right."

======

She woke to loud shouts and a frantic Amazon standing over her. "What?"

"We're in trouble."

She sat up quickly. "What is it?"

"Andreas found us."

Gabrielle stood up. "I knew the fires would be seen." She grabbed her staff. "Shit." Her ankle throbbed as she sat down.

"You okay?"

"Yeah I forgot and...." She shrugged.

"We need to get you out of here."

"No."

"Gabrielle you're in no condition to fight. You can hardly stand."

"NO!"

Ephiny closed her eyes. "As second in command I can take over in time of need or if my Queen is injured or killed. I take that command now."

Gabrielle shook her head. "Don't."

"I won't have you hurt...or worse. Just listen to me for once."

Gabrielle stood up, leaning on her staff and hopped to Ephiny. "I'm fine."

Ephiny knocked the staff from Gabrielle's grip and watched the Queen fall. "Yeah, I can see that. I do believe I knocked you on your royal ass your highness." She bowed gracefully and pulled a dagger from her boot. "Take this, grab a horse, and get out of here. Find some place safe and we'll find you."

Gabrielle saw the desperation in her eyes. "Okay. Promise me you'll be okay?"

"Yes."

Gabrielle grabbed Ephiny's hand and pulled herself up.

Ephiny handed her the staff and walked into the dark to get a horse. Handing Gabrielle a bag, she helped her up into the saddle and nodded.

Gabrielle nodded and wiped her eyes as she disappeared into the darkness. She could hear the sounds of the battle behind her. Moving the horse into a fast run, she lowered her head and held on for dear life.

======

Gabrielle opened her eyes and looked around her. She was moving. Looking down, she saw that she was still on the horse. Raising her head, she looked around her again. Where was she? She was in the forest. The day was bright and sunny but there didn't appear to be anyone around.

Stopping the horse. She thought about getting down. What if something happened? She couldn't get back up easily.

A sharp pain exploded in her side and she looked down to see an arrow shaft. "Shit." Reaching down, she grabbed hold of the shaft and broke it in two. Her eyes closed as she felt behind her to feel the end poking through. Pushing it through, a gut wrenching scream erupted from her throat.

Throwing it down, she grabbed her blanket and raised her dagger to cut into the fabric. Ripping off a huge strip, she tied it around her waist and looked around. Her vision started to get blurry and she felt herself falling, crying out, when she hit the ground on her wounded side. Moving a hand to cover her side, she heard shouts and saw dark blurry images emerge from the forest. She could make out a crossbow behind fired but never felt the hit. A dark blur moved in front of her before she passed out

When she came to, she saw that she was in some kind of campsite. Raising her head she saw Ephiny sitting next to her with her back to her. Raising a hand she lightly touched the woman's arm, pulling back when she jumped.

Ephiny turned and let out a sigh of relief. "Hey."

"Hey."

"How do you feel?"

"I feel like I was shot with an arrow." She smiled lightly.

Ephiny nodded. "Thirsty?"

"Yes." She took a drink when Ephiny helped her sit up a tad.

"What do you remember?"

"Someone got me with an arrow. I fell and I saw something emerge from the forest. I think they were soldiers. I passed out after that. What happened?"

"You are very lucky."

"What happened?"

"They were soldiers. You should be dead now. We took care of the wound and I sewed it up."

"What happened to the soldiers?"

Ephiny looked away.

"Eph."

"Xena took care of them."

"Xena."

"Yes. She got you to us."

"Where is she?" She saw Ephiny's eyes looking down. "Eph."

"She took most of the arrows intended for you. She's being looked after right now."

"How bad is she?"

"There were ten soldiers. Six had crossbows."

"Oh gods." She covered her mouth and closed her eyes, feeling the tears run down her face.

"She's alive. She took four arrows. There's numerous sword marks across her body. She doesn't have any broken bones. She's real lucky actually. It could have been much worse. As much as I could tell, she threw her body down on yours."

"Can I see her?"

"I don't think that..."

"I want to see her?" She rose up, crying out when she felt the searing pain at her side. Pushing Ephiny off, she stood up and walked with Ephiny. Her heart broke when she saw her battered warrior laying under the furs. Her face was deathly pale and her hair was wet with sweat.

"I can't seem to break this fever." Anna threw down the cloth and sat back. "I don't know what to do."

Gabrielle kneeled down and ran her hand down Xena's cheek. "Fight it, Xena." She kissed her forehead feeling the hot fever. "You're so stupid Xena. You know that. Why did you do that?" Gabrielle peeled back the furs and gasped. Xena had a bandage over her shoulder, a thigh, her side, and Gabrielle was pretty sure there were more on her back. Looking up she saw Anna. "Tell me."

"She took all the arrows in the back. On there in the shoulder, the leg, her side, and there was another that just missed her spine. Looks like it just missed a rib too. She's very lucky."

Gabrielle nodded. "How long till she wakes?"

"It depends."

"On?"

"On if I can break her fever. Nothing I do seems to be working."

Gabrielle leaned down to Xena's ear. "You have to make it through this. You can't leave me here alone. I won't let you go. Now fight this fever Xena. Please...for me." She kissed her forehead once more and laid a cool rag over the hot skin. Running a hand down her cheek, she wiped away her tears.

Feeling a hand on her shoulder, she turned her head and smiled. "Anna. Tell me the truth. Do you think she stands a chance?"

"I have a very good mind to think so yes." She sat down. "She has a lot to live for." She smiled.

======

Gabrielle raised her head and looked over at Xena. Turning to Anna her eyes asked a silent question.

"She's hanging in there. No news yet."

Gabrielle crawled forward and laid her head down next to Xena and closed her eyes.

======

Gabrielle raised her head and looked down at Xena. Her color seemed a bit better. Looking over at Anna, she licked her dry lips. "Her fever broke."

"Last night. She should come through now. Just a matter of time now. She's not in any danger as far as I'm concerned."

Gabrielle stood up and brought a hand to her side. Pulling it back, she looked at the fresh blood coating it. "Anna." She fell to her knees and passed out, feeling her head hit the ground.

When she opened them again, she saw Anna kneeling over her.

"You okay?"

"Yeah. What happened?"

"You tore your wound."

"Oh." She looked down at the fresh bandage. "My head hurts."

"It should. You banged it pretty good when you fell." She laid a cool rag over her forehead. "Just close your eyes, a headache is sure to follow and you need some sleep anyway." She saw Gabrielle's eyes turn to Xena. "Don't worry. I'll watch her." She smiled and watched Gabrielle's eyes close.

======

Xena had started to move two days later. Her fever had dropped dramatically in that time and her color had almost returned to normal. She opened her eyes and looked around trying to figure out where she was.

Sitting up, she winced at the pain that radiated through her body from the arrows. Looking down at the bandage around her side, she pulled right slowly, closing her eyes soon after. Laying back down, she turned her head from right to left, trying to figure out where she was. It dawned on her soon, making her smile. She was with the Amazons.

Footsteps sounded over her head and she tilted back to see a long green skirt. Raising her eyes higher, she saw the familiar smile. "Hi."

Gabrielle kneeled. "How are you feeling?"

"Great. I think. How long was I out?"

"Only a couple of days." She sat down. "You look better."

"Well I've felt better too."

"I can't believe you did that."

"What?"

"Risked your life for mine."

Xena nodded. "I would do it again if I had the chance."

"You didn't have to do that."

"Yes I did."

"Why. You could have gotten yourself killed. Why did you do that?"

"Because I'm in love with you."

Gabrielle raised up. "What?"

"I think you heard me."

Her head tilted and her eyes closed. When she felt a warm hand on her cheek, she opened them, a tear silently falling. "I never let myself believe that you could love me." She smiled. "This is the drugs talking isn't it?"

Xena smiled. "No."

"So now what?"

"Well I was hoping you'd kiss it and make it better." Her lower lip poked out in a pout making the other woman laugh. She raised a hand to run it down Gabrielle's cheek, leading down to her neck, then back behind her head. She gently pulled her down.

Within an inch of the lips she longed for, her eyes met blue as she smiled and leaned down, closing the distance in a small kiss. Pulling back she saw Xena grinning. "What?"

"You call that a kiss. I'm trying to recuperate here." She smiled innocently.

Gabrielle shook her head and leaned down again, groaning when Xena's tongue came out to run along her lower lip. Laying down next to the other woman, she closed her eyes and deepened the kiss, feeling her heart start to pound harder.

She pulled back; eyes still closed and tried to take in deep breaths. Feeling a hand on hers she opened her eyes. "Just give me a moment will you."

Xena chuckled. "Sorry."

"Oh, please don't apologize." Her brows raised suggestively.

"Okay then." She yawned.

"You should get some sleep."

"I'm not tired."

"Yes you are." She raised to go but felt a hand on her arm.

"Stay with me."

"Till you fall asleep?"

Xena nodded and closed her eyes.

Gabrielle watched her chest rise and fall as her breath evened out as she fell asleep. Smiling to herself, she almost jumped up with happiness but thought against it. What image would that set with her Amazons? Making sure Xena was asleep; she stood up and continued with her duties.

======

By that night they had made it safely past the mountains. Stopping at a small village, they made camp on the outskirts. No need to draw more attention than was necessary.

Gabrielle and a few others, including Ephiny went into the village to get supplies. As of yet, the warrior was not able to walk so Xena stayed behind.

Entering the village, Gabrielle felt the deafening quiet. Looking around at the faces of those who were in an inn, she swallowed and turned to Ephiny. "Something isn't right."

"Why?" She looked around.

"They seem.... Scared. And I know it isn't because of us."

Ephiny drew her sword, slowly backing them toward the door. A dark shadow loomed over them, making them look at the floor in front of them.

Gabrielle turned her head slightly and let out a breath of relief. "You, should be sleeping."

"And you should be off that leg." She arched a brow. "Right."

"Yes I know. So what are you doing here?"

"I'd guess not much. You've already quieted them all." She smiled and left the doorframe.

In the sunlight each woman felt better.

"What was that all about?" Gabrielle leaned on her staff.

"You're guess is as good as mine. I think we should keep moving."

"We need supplies, Ephiny."

Xena closed her eyes as a moment of dizziness fell over her. Opening them again, she saw Gabrielle looking at her worriedly. 'I'm fine,' she mouthed.

Gabrielle nodded and walked on, heading towards their camps. "So now what?"

"The next village?"

"Sounds good. Ephiny, would you go on ahead? I need to talk to Xena."

Ephiny eyed her a bit wary but nodded and moved on.

"So what do you want to talk to me about?" She turned to Gabrielle just as a mouth closed over hers. "Mmm I see." She smiled as they pulled back. "We need to have this talk again."

Gabrielle laughed. "Sorry couldn't help it." She cried out when she was pushed up against a tree.

"Neither can I." She bent and ran a hand up Gabrielle's inner thigh, making the small woman close her eyes. "So soft."

"I see you're feeling better, warrior." She tilted her head.

"Oh much better." Her hand slid underneath Gabrielle's skirt.

"Yeah you heal fast." Her eyes closed again and her mouth opened to form a small moan. "Gods."

"Yes, I thank them everyday." Her eyes closed as she leaned into Gabrielle's body. "You smell so good." Her face disappeared in the soft golden hair while her hand moved faster.

"Oh.... I...do." Coherent thought was becoming impossible.

"Oh yes." Her lips found that soft neck and sucked gently.

"Xena."

"Hmm?"

"We need to stop."

"Why?"

"I...Oh gods." She felt Xena's hand slip under her breeches. "Never mind."

"So you don't want me to stop?" A groan was her only answer. "Hmm?"

"I..." She spread her legs wider, wrapping one around Xena's back. Turning her head, her lips met Xena's as they fought each other for control. Feeling those fingers slide inside of her she gave over control and focused on staying upright. "Oh, gods you drive me crazy."

"The gods have nothing to do with this." Her other hand found itself wrapped around a soft breast.

"No they don't." She whimpered softly, feeling Xena's hand leave her breast. As she felt the laces of her shirt being pulled, she smiled. "Yes."

"Don't mind if I do." Her lips closed around a soft pink nipple, feeling it harden against her tongue. "I was right, you taste even better than you smell." Her hand never stopped its rhythm.

Gabrielle leaned her head back against the tree and focused on breathing, which was becoming harder and harder as the minutes went by. "No wonder they call you the Conqueror."

Xena raised her head. "This has nothing to do with conquering."

Gabrielle opened her eyes. "Then what?"

"This is about love, Gabrielle."

Gabrielle closed her eyes at the sound of her name coming from those lips. "Love?"

"Yes." She felt Gabrielle tighten around her fingers. "Mmm, yes, Gabrielle." She moved slower. "Easy."

Gabrielle growled as she met Xena's mouth with fierce hunger.

Moving her hand faster, she closed her eyes and groaned out. "Come for me, my love."

Gabrielle tilted her head back and felt the energy rumbling through her body. Her cry of release was silenced as Xena's mouth covered her own in a deep, needy kiss.

Feeling the muscles slow, she pulled her fingers out of Gabrielle and slid them into her mouth. "Mmm, so good." Her eyes slid shut.

Gabrielle wiped her brow and kissed Xena's forehead. "Yes you are." She smiled as Xena looked up at her. "What?" The warrior's eyes held such warmth. "You okay?" Her hand ran down Xena's cheek.

"Yes."

Arching a brow, Gabrielle lowered her leg and leaned heavily against the tree. Her hand raised to run down Xena's side. "Shall I return the favor?"

"Yes, but not now."

"Oh?"

"We need to get going?"

"Spoil sport."

Xena chuckled. "Trust me, this will happen again." She leaned forward, her lips slightly touching Gabrielle's. "To the full extend. You think you feel good." Her eyes took in Gabrielle's body, returning to her eyes. "You haven't felt nothing yet." Her brows twitched and she let go of Gabrielle, walking back to the camp.

Gabrielle leaned her head back against the tree and groaned. "Gods." Shaking her head, she followed the smiling warrior.

Ephiny looked up as the two women walked into camp. She first noticed the light sheen of sweat that covered her Queen's forehead. It didn't take her long to figure it out and even though she still didn't trust the warrior, she found herself smiling as she turned away.

Gabrielle saw her smiling and bit her lip, chuckling silently. Taking a seat on her bedroll, she laid down, facing away from the grinning regent. Closing her eyes, she felt a warm arm lay over her side and when she was pulled into a warm body behind her, she let out a small contented sigh. "Hi."

"Hi. Can I sleep here tonight?"

"Yeah, like I can trust you." All was said in a whisper.

"Oh you can trust me, but can I trust you." She leaned up on her elbow.

"That's a negative." Rolling over, her head nestled into the warrior's neck and her lips soon took advantage of the situation. Breathing softly on the skin, she felt Xena twitch.

"Play fair, now."

"Why? You didn't." Her hand trailed down the warrior's side to caress the curve of a hip.

"Careful who you tease."

"Oh, I'm not teasing." Her knee slid in between the warrior's legs, raising up to feel the warm heat. "Am I?"

"No." She closed her eyes.

"Do you really think I could wait to touch this delectable body? I think not." She felt Xena's knee slide between her legs.

"Oh no. But then neither can I." She pulled Gabrielle down on her knee, feeling the woman tremble.

"Ephiny will see us."

"I don't care. We're traveling with a tribe of Amazons, I don't think we'll be that noticeable." She rolled them over, laying down on top of Gabrielle. "Right."

"Right." She raised her legs feeling Xena's body slide in between. "Oh." Her eyes closed as the warrior ground her hips down. "Gods, what's that feeling."

"Its called lust." Her lips sampled a soft ear.

"Oh yes." Her lips curled into a grin as she grabbed hold of Xena's ass, pushing her down harder. "And love."

"Always there."

"You can have both?"

"Not always."

"But now?"

"Oh yes."

"Good." Her eyes closed and she groaned as Xena's hips pushed down again as they started circling. She felt her skirt raise and her breeches were tugged at. "If you'd let me up, I could take those off."

"Where's the fun in that?"

Gabrielle turned her head to look at the fire, seeing that Ephiny had left to give them some privacy. She saw Xena raise up. "Told you." Her breeches were pulled off and her skirt was pulled off. She untied her shirt and threw it away. "Now you." She watched Xena slide her shift over her head and groaned when their bare flesh met. "How can something feel so good and so scary at the same time."

Xena raised her head to look seriously into Gabrielle's eyes. "It’s a mystery. Would it help if I told you I was scared too?"

"Yes it would."

Xena nodded. "I'm scared too." She smiled. "Feel better?"

"Yes. Thank you."

"Welcome." Her mouth lowered to trace the line of Gabrielle's throat with her tongue.

"Are you still leaving me?"

Xena raised her head. "Let’s talk about that later."

"Why?"

"Because I can't think when I have you under me."

"Oh yeah?"

"Yeah. So stop talking." She smiled making Gabrielle laugh. "This isn't a laughing moment."

"It can be whatever we want it to be."

"True." She smiled again. "So can I get back to work here?"

"Oh yeah go ahead." Her back arched when Xena closed her mouth over a nipple. Feeling a hand run over the curve of her hip, she felt her breathing accelerate. Spreading her legs, she wrapped them over Xena's back, locking them at the ankle. "Now you're stuck."

"And that’s a problem." She tilted her head and lowered her mouth to kiss Gabrielle's stomach. Running a tongue around her navel she wrapped her lips around it and sucked gently.

When Gabrielle felt Xena gently nip at her hip, she couldn't stop squirming.

"Ticklish?" She raised up.

"Yes."

"Hmm." She did it again, making the woman under her twitch and moan at the same time. Feeling Gabrielle unlock her legs, she spread them wider and spread the folds of her sex. Closing her eyes, she took in a deep breath. "Yes."

"Yes what?"

She looked up. "Just yes." Her lowered her mouth making Gabrielle raise her hips.

"Oh gods." Her eyes closed as she lowered a hand to wrap it in silky raven locks. "Oh." Her mouth hung open an occasional gasp leaving here and there. "Yes."

======

Gabrielle opened her eyes, instantly feeling a warm body next to hers. "Mmm so it wasn't a dream?" She rolled over.

Xena smiled and kissed a nearby shoulder. "No."

Gabrielle frowned. "I'm sorry."

"For what?"

"For falling asleep."

"No apologies. I took it as a compliment." She felt a hand on her stomach.

"Well this time, I'll finish what I start." She pulled back the covers and lowered her head.

Xena shook her head but jumped when she felt a mouth on her collarbone. Hearing someone approach, she pulled the covers up over the golden head.

Ephiny cleared her throat. "Sorry to interrupt but we're heading out."

Xena nodded. "Thanks." Waiting till the Amazon was gone, she pulled the covers down, exposing a smiling Gabrielle. "Not now."

"I'm Queen. I'll make them wait." Her mouth attached itself to a soft neck.

"As much as I'd like to agree. There's a certain Amazon that barely tolerates me as it is. I make her wait, its liable to get me killed."

Gabrielle laughed.

"You would find this humorous."

"Would and do."

Xena chuckled as she sat up.

Gabrielle watched Xena's stare blanken. "You okay?"

"Yeah."

"You looked weird there for a moment."

"No I.... There was a.... I was hit from behind."

"When?"

"The saddle...I slid off." She closed her eyes. "I was hit from behind after I fell off Argo."

"Did you see any faces?"

"No just a pair of boots."

"What happened after you fell?"

"I was knocked out. Next thing I know I'm in the healers hut in your village."

"Maybe it'll come back. In time."

"Yeah." She stood up.

A hand touches her arm making her jump. Taking in a deep breath she turns to Gabrielle. "I saw it all."

"What happened?"

She shook her head. "Its not important."

"What did you see?"

Again a shake.

"Please tell me."

"I saw faces. Lots of faces."

"Go on."

"They were waiting for me after that ride. The saddle was cut but only so far. A nice ride would and did spread it further. I was running from something but the strap gave way and I fell. Two men hit me from behind. I was drugged and taken to a cave. I don't know why or who was behind it but there were more men at the cave. I tried to run but only made it outside. The drugs made my legs so heavy. I was beaten and someone saved me but I passed out before I could figure out who."

"What now?"

"Don't know. I need to find a way back to my city. Find out who tried to have me killed. And who saved me?"

"So these men were the ones who beat you."

"Yes. I remember the blow to my stomach, don't remember getting cut there. I remember hitting the wall on my way out which explains the cut and bruise along my arm. They must have beaten me as I lay asleep because I remember waking up with so much pain surrounding my body. As for the cut on my leg, I have no idea."

"So there's more that you can't remember?"

"I guess so."

"So what do you remember about the one who saved you?"

"A black cloak."

======

"What were you running from?"

Xena stared across the table at Ephiny. "I don't know."

They had found a large open area and stopped, making camp. That was a few weeks ago.

"I think that's the hidden part of all this."

Xena nodded and laid her head down on the table. She felt Gabrielle's hand on her back, rubbing softly.

"It'll come to her."

Xena stood up and walked away.

Gabrielle watched her till she disappeared into her hut. "She's been feeling sick lately."

Ephiny frowned. "Did she say anything about them raping her?"

"No why?"

"She's been sick, has she missed her cycle?"

"No."

"Maybe it's just nerves. We've all got them."

Gabrielle looked around. "Yeah. This place is nice."

"Yes, thanks to the Conqueror its ours."

"See its good to have powerful allies."

Ephiny snorted and stood, walking away.

"Okay fine. Everyone leave me then." She laid her head on her elbow and looked around. It was a surprisingly beautiful day. The sun was shining, the clouds were clear from the sky and there was a slight cool breeze. Standing, she walked to her hut.

It was dark and she lit a candle as she passed the table. Xena was in bed. "You okay?"

"I'm fine, why?"

"You've just been sick lately. I was worried."

"I'm fine." She rolled over, facing away from Gabrielle. She felt a hand at her shoulder and jumped.

"You're not fine. Why are you so tense?"

Xena took a deep breath. "Don't know."

"I've noticed you haven't slept lately either."

"Bad dreams."

"Oh." She rubbed gently circles on the warrior's back. "Does this mean you're staying?" Silence. She felt Xena tense under her hand. "Sorry." The muscles relaxed.

"They think I'm dead anyway. What difference does it make?"

Gabrielle held her tongue. No words were needed at this time. "I'm still here for you if you need me." She jumped when Xena rolled over and grabbed onto her, pulling her down onto the bed. Feeling Xena curl up behind her, she smiled when a arm was thrown over her waist and a hand held her tightly. "I take it you want me to stay." She felt warm breath at her ear and it made her shiver. It had been a few weeks since they had be this close.

Feeling the woman relax behind her and her breath even out, she sighed when she realized she would have to wait for that. Better time for all things. Right now the warrior was upset and she was determined to find out why.

======

"NO! NO!"

Gabrielle woke up, dazed for a second before she heard another shout. Turning, she placed a hand on Xena's arm.

"NO!" She threw a punch, barely missing Gabrielle.

Gabrielle backed off and sat up. "Xena, wake up." She reached forward again to lightly shake the woman awake. "Wake up!" She jumped but wasn't fast enough for the fist that flew in her direction, hitting her right across the face. She raised a hand to her eye, it closing on its own. "Xena wake up." She backed off the bed and stood up. "Xena!" Running to the door, she poked her head out. "EPHINY!"

The regent ran toward her hut and entered. "What?" She saw Xena on the bed thrashing back and forth yelling. "What happened?"

"A nightmare. I can't wake her."

Ephiny reached forward and held down Xena's arms while she sat down on her legs, making sure the woman wouldn't move. "Talk to her."

"Xena. Wake up. XENA!"

The woman stopped for a moment before she twisted, putting the regent on the floor.

Grabbing her head, she stood up. "I...." Her head shook as she grabbed a cup of water. Throwing it in Xena's face, she saw her jump and open her eyes. "Finally." She set down the cup and back away from it.

Xena looked around, fear still in her eyes. "Wh...." She sat up.

"You were dreaming. We couldn't wake you."

Xena wiped the water from her face and turned to Ephiny. "You?"

Ephiny backed up. "Yes."

"Thank you." She hid her face in her hands and took deep breaths.

Gabrielle sat down at the edge of the bed. "What was it this time?"

Xena shook her head. "Don't know." She felt a slight pain in her thigh before it was gone. Laying back down she closed her eyes and fell back asleep.

Gabrielle closed her other eye. "Thank you." She lit a candle. "I didn't know what to do?" Her hand raised to her eye.

"You okay?"

"Yeah, she didn't mean to."

"To what?" She walked forward and saw Gabrielle's red left eye. "That's gonna leave a mark. The woman's eye was closed and it looked like it would swell. "Lets get you to Anna."

"No I'm fine."

"You're gonna have one hell of a shiner come morning."

"I'll have that no matter what I do." She stood up and nodded. "Thank you for helping me."

"No problem. Always get a kick out of being knocked on my ass." She laughed and left the hut.

Gabrielle dipped a rag in the cold water bowel and dabbed at her eye. It hurt and she knew it would be dark tomorrow. Turning to Xena she sighed. "How would Xena react to it?"

======

She tried to avoid her all morning but she knew that it wouldn't be that easy. She could see Xena coming out of the dining hut and she backed behind a tree. Her eye was swollen shut and she had looked at it this morning to see that it was dark blue. From her eyebrow to her cheekbone on her left side was all dark blue. She didn't mean to do it. Gabrielle felt a hand on her arm and turned to see Xena. Shit. Her face tilted slightly to hide her left side. "Hey."

"Are you avoiding me?"

"No."

"I haven't seen you all day."

"Sorry."

Xena looked down and grabbed Gabrielle's hands, laying them in her own. "I'm sorry for last night."

"Everyone has nightmares."

Xena nodded. "Yes, but I didn't mean to hit you."

Gabrielle tensed.

"I knew." She raised her head to look into Gabrielle's eyes. Pulling the woman out into the sunlight, she saw her face. "I'm so sorry."

"You didn't mean to."

"I know but it looks like it hurts."

"It does." She chuckled and tensed when Xena leaned forward.

Pulling back, she had hurt in her eyes. She dropped their hands and walked away.

"Xena, wait." She ran and grabbed Xena's arms. "I'm sorry. Reaction."

"I understand. You're afraid of me."

"No, I'm not." She laid her head down on Xena's chest. "Sorry." She felt Xena's hand stroking her hair and felt herself relax. "Why don't you tell me what that dream was about?"

"I don't..."

"Yes you do." She raised her head. "Go on."

Xena shook her head. "Someone was holding me. I tried to get away. That’s just it."

Gabrielle nodded. "Does this have to do with what happened to you?"

"I think so. Parts are coming back and lots of things are becoming clear. But I haven't gotten the whole story yet."

"It'll come in time like the others."

"I hope so." She wrapped an arm around Gabrielle's shoulder and kissed her temple. "I love you."

"I love you too. Don't forget that."

"I won't."

======

"You never told me how you became the Queen of the Amazons."

"You want to know?"

"Yes." She laid down on her stomach, her elbows holding her up. "Please."

"Well its simple really. I'm from a simple farm village called Potedia. One-day slavers came to it looking for a few good prospects. My father sent my sister and I into the woods but it didn't do any good. We were captured and thrown onto a wagon. As we neared a village a loud cry was heard and the next minute I know our attackers are on the ground. The night was too dark to make out anything and we were so scared. I held my sister for all I was worth until a gentle voice told me to get out of the wagon and follow. What was I to do? We followed but my sister was hit with a stray arrow. It killed her instantly. I was pulled into the trees and I could hear sounds of a battle down below but still couldn't see anything. It all happened so fast. I followed to a village where I saw who had captured me. A band of women warriors. It was so exciting, but I was still saddened at the loss of my sister. They took me in, taught me their ways."

"So how..."

"I'm getting to it. Queen Melosa took me in with open arms and made me a warrior. They trained me and I became good friends with a few. Ephiny of course and you know Solari and Eponin. There was another woman named Terreis. She was the princess of the tribe, Melosa's sister. When Melosa died from a terrible fever, Terreis was prepared to rule the tribe. There was an attack and she was killed before she ever was to sit on the throne." She looked at her hands remembering the blood that had soaked them not too long ago. "I tried to save her but there was nothing I could do. She died and before she did, she gave me her right of cast. I had no idea what that was but Ephiny told me not to worry. Not to worry, who was I kidding? When I found out that I was supposed to become Queen I was frantic with worry. I didn't have the first idea on how to rule anything. I had a pet when I was little but he died. Now I was in charge of several hundreds of women."

"But you learned."

"At first I didn't have a clue. Ephiny taught me and so did many others. The elders taught me all the laws and I had a lot more lessons with the staff and a few other weapons. It was hard the first few years, but I somehow managed to keep my wits and I was bound determined to show everyone that I could do it. I didn't want Terreis to look like she had made a mistake. She didn't."

"No. You are a great Queen."

"Thank you." She laid down. "I still have troubles with certain things."

"Like what?"

"Well I don't have a champion and I should."

"Champion?"

"Yeah, my mate." Her eyes turned away but she felt a hand touch hers.

"Yes you do. I may not have been made an Amazon but I'm your champion."

"Yes you've saved my life how many times?" She laughed.

"You saved mine and I returned the favor."

"And I thank you."

"No thanks are needed. I would do it again."

"Even if it meant that you'd be...."

"Yes. I'd die for you. Don't you know that by now?" Her head tilted and she got a funny grin on her face.

"Yes I do. Just hard to believe sometimes." She leaned over to kiss the other woman softly.

"Believe it cause its true."

"Don't know what would happen if I ever lost you."

"Lets just hope it never comes down to that."

======

Xena sat up and looked around the room. Where was she? Hearing snoring at her side, she looked down to see Gabrielle sleeping deeply besides her. Laying back down, she rolled on her side and brought up a hand to run it through the golden locks. "I love you." She smiled when Gabrielle rolled into her warm and continued to sleep.

======

Gabrielle noticed that Xena had been unusually quiet today. The warrior was always doing something everytime she wanted to go see her. Early this morning she had woken up to an empty bed. Searching for the warrior she found her in the fields training some young Amazons. She had left her alone to go search for breakfast. That afternoon Xena was away getting food for dinner. And now in the evening, she couldn't even find her.

Stopping her search, she sat down next to a tree, her back leaned up against it. Tilting her head back, she closed her eyes.

"Looking for me?"

"Yes actually."

Xena sat down next to her. "Sorry."

"You've been avoiding me."

"No, I've just had things on my mind."

Gabrielle leaned her head against Xena's shoulder. "You know I never got the chance to touch you yet." Her hand rested on Xena's leg.

"I know. Sorry about that."

"Don't be." She raised her head. "We've just been preoccupied."

"Yes." She looked down.

"Tell me what's wrong."

"Why do...."

"I know you."

Xena took a deep breath. "I had something come back to me last night."

"Tell me."

"I was remembering why I was running."

"Why?"

"I was running from Ares. I had made the decision to stop being the Conqueror and he didn't like it."

"Did he hurt you?"

"He broke me."

Gabrielle looked down.

"After that night he took the fight out of me. I...." She stopped and shook her head.

"Shh, its okay. You're here now and it’s all over."

"Is it?" She leaned her head against the tree. "The truth is I'm never going to be free of him. It’s just a matter of time before he comes back for me."

"If he was going to wouldn't he have come by now."

"Not necessarily."

Gabrielle raised up and straddled Xena's thighs. "Well he can't have you." She felt Xena's hands on her thighs. "If I remember correctly you belong to me."

"Mmm I do huh." She pulled Gabrielle against her. "So what are you doing tonight?"

Gabrielle smiled. "Who do you think?"

"Wait I didn't say...." She was silenced as Gabrielle's mouth closed around hers. Pulling back she sighed. "I stand corrected."

"Hut?"

Xena nodded. "Hut." She stood up; Gabrielle still wrapped around her.

"Xena! Gabrielle!"

They whirled around to see Ephiny running toward them. A mutual groan sounded.

Out of breath. "He's been spotted, three miles east."

"Andreas?"

"Yes."

Xena gently lowered Gabrielle to the ground. "Let's go."

Gabrielle grabbed Xena's arm. "Wait. Gonna leave me behind?"

"Trust me its for the best." She saw protest in Gabrielle's eyes and held up her hand. "You don't want to see me when I catch up to him."

"Why?"

"Because I'm going to kill him."

======

She straightened up in her saddle and turned her head feeling eyes on her back. Turning her head, she saw Ephiny looking at her. "What?"

"Something wrong?"

"No."

Ephiny brought her horse closer. "I've never liked you and I won't lie and say I do."

"This is supposed to make me talk to you?"

"No, but all I'm saying is that my Queen loves you and I'll do everything in my power to make sure she stays happy."

"Point?"

"The point is that I see you troubled and I need to know what it is. We need you focused for this."

"I'll be fine." She moved on ahead.

"Hope so."

======

The wind blew through his tent and he turned his head to see the flap open. He had closed it. Shaking his head, he stood up and walked over to close it. Tying it closed he felt a shiver run up his spine. Turning he saw her sitting in his chair, drinking his wine. "Xena."

She looked up. "I told you I'd kill you." She stood up smiling when he backed away. "What's wrong? Don't wanna play now that I'm not drugged." She threw down the glass. "I'd be afraid of me too." She grabbed a dagger from her waist and held it up next to her lips. "Tell me, did Ares tell you to cut the saddle?"

"Yes."

"And did he tell you to rescue me?"

"Yes."

She stopped walking. "Did he tell you to rape me?" She saw him tremble. "Is that a no?"

"I was only doing what I was told."

"Yeah both you and Ares are too afraid to deal with me until after you've drugged me."

"He said I could have you because he was through."

"Oh I doubt it."

He reached for his sword on the table.

"I wouldn't."

"Why you're going to kill me anyway?"

"Yes."

He sat down. "I thought it was strange running into you that day. You didn't even seem to have remembered. I guess you didn't."

"No I didn't. If I had I would have killed you on the spot. I thought I killed you that night."

"Well you missed."

She smiled. "A mistake I can fix now." She raised the dagger. "Run."

"No."

She chuckled. "All the better for me."

"I thought you loved a good chase."

"Oh I do." She kicked him in the mouth, making his mouth bleed. He spat blood onto the ground.

"That's one." She reached down and pulled the rug right out from under his feet. Watching him fall to the ground she straddled him and held down his arms. "Now who's lost their control. You're lucky I'm in a good mood otherwise you'd be slit from nasal to nose." She stood up and kicked him in the side, hearing an audible crack. "Two." She stepped back and watched him stand up, grabbing his side. "Hurt, just a little." She smiled and sat down, grabbing another glass to pour herself some more wine. Taking a drink, she sighed. "I could kill you now, but I think I'll wait."

"For what?" He grunted out.

"Or not." She shrugged and stood up to kick him in the side again, hearing him cry out. Kicking him again, she backed away and grabbed his sword from the table. She could hear him standing up behind her.

He slipped a dagger from his boot and rushed her.

She turned and planted the sword right in his gut.

He looked down at his own sword than back up at her.

She smiled and kicked him off watching him fall to the floor. Throwing the sword down next to him, she reached down and grabbed the dagger from his limp hand. The jewels sparkled and she smiled as she slid it into her boot. Feeling his neck for a pulse she stood and turned to leave. She grunted as she was pulled to the ground. His bloody body covered her own.

"When you kill someone make sure that they are dead." He pinned her arms above her head with so much strength that even she couldn't break it.

She gasped when he turned into Ares. "You."

He smiled. "Yes."

"But I heard your ribs crack and you had no pulse."

He laughed. "You killed him a long time ago."

"So it was you coming after the Amazons."

"Yes. After you. I knew you would protect them." His eyes traveled down her body.

"Don't even think about it."

He smiled and dug a knee between her thighs, pushing her legs apart.

She struggled with her arms. "Let me go."

"Never." Her voice. He tilted his head. "Sound familiar? Your own words."

She gritted her teeth and cried out when she slapped her face. "Ares its over."

"Oh no. You are mine, now and forever."

"Never again."

"Remember the last time you tried to leave me." His hand lowered again to run down her sides. "Huh?"

"How could I forget? You made sure I wouldn't." She snorted. "You made sure I couldn't walk."

He smiled. "Yes. I tried."

Her eyes narrowed. "I'll make you wish you hadn't."

"Oh I hardly see how. I still own you."

"You never owned me."

"I did, will, and always...." His eyes traveled down her body. "Oh yes." His hand was between her legs, claiming her.

"Never again." She flipped him backwards, crying out when his grip held her wrists making one snap. Crawling forward, she stood up and backed away from him. "You are a disgrace."

He was in front of her in a second, holding her throat between his hands. "I could kill you."

"Go ahead because between that and going back to you, I'd rather be dead."

He knocked her to the ground.

She grabbed her jaw, hearing it snap when she opened it.

"Next time I'll break it."

"Don't threaten me." She felt the air rush out of her lungs when he pushed her up against a stone wall. Looking around her, she tried to figure out where she was.

He threw her down on his bed and smiled. "You. Are. Mine." He climbed down on top of her.

"You forget Ares, I'm not drugged this time." She kicked him backwards and stood up, running for the door. It closed and she was thrown up against it. "Stop it."

"No." He raised her hands over her head and pushed his body against hers. "Mine." His lips claimed hers in a hungry kiss.

"STOP!"

They turned their heads to see someone standing across the room

"Stay out of this." Ares warned.

The woman walked forward. "She is mine."

His eyes narrowed and he let go of her to walk forward. "Artemis you are on dangerous ground."

"NO! YOU ARE ON DANGEROUS GROUND ARES. SHE BELONGS TO ME."

"How do you figure that?"

"Gabrielle belongs to me and Xena's heart belongs to her. They are bound together so she belongs to me. I protected her since she stepped foot on my lands."

He reached forward and grabbed Xena by the hair pulling her forward. "SHE IS MINE! STAY OUT OF THIS!"

Artemis closed her eyes and chanted silently.

Ares dropped his hand from Xena and held it to him. Looking down he saw the marks across it. "Don't make me tell you again." He reached out to touch Xena but his hand was burned yet again.

"You can no longer claim her Ares. She has my seal of protection." The scenery changed and they were yet again back in the tent. "Forget it Ares. You've lost." She helped Xena up from the floor. "You okay?"

Xena nodded slightly.

"Go back to her." She watched Xena walk out the tent.

The camp was gone. The soldiers and everything was gone. Turning around, she saw that the tent she had just come out of was also gone.

"XENA!"

She turned around and was knocked to the ground by Gabrielle. Feeling the woman straddle her waist, she sat up and wrapped her arms around her.

Gabrielle laughed. "Sorry."

"No problem." She raised her hand to the back of Gabrielle's head and pulled her forward, touching her lips with her own. Hearing Gabrielle groan, she demanded entrance to her mouth and took it. Her tongue dueled with Gabrielle's. Pushing backwards she laid Gabrielle down on the soft grass.

"You guys."

Xena took a deep breath. "She has got to go."

They stood up and glared at Ephiny.

Ephiny stopped and stared. "What?"

Xena and Gabrielle broke out in laughter.

======

Gabrielle dipped her feet in the water closing her eyes at the sensation. She cried out in surprise when she felt arms wrap around her. A warm breath in her ear sent shivers up her spine. "Hi."

"Thought you'd be out here." She nuzzled Gabrielle's neck. "You smell great."

"I know." She groaned when Xena's hands covered her breasts. "Gods."

"Let’s take a swim."

"Yes."

Xena let her go and walked past her into the water. "Feels great." She raised her arms over her head to stretch and grinned when she felt Gabrielle's hands at her hips. "Can I help you?"

"I think the question is, can I help you?" She slid down Xena's body wrapping her lips around a very hard nipple. "Mmm." Her hands spread Xena's legs as she licked her way down Xena's stomach.

Xena jumped and groaned when Gabrielle nestled between her legs. Raising a leg, she laid it on Gabrielle's shoulder. "Yes. Like that." Her head fell back and she raised her hips.

Gabrielle stood up and grabbed Xena's hands, leading her into the water. Raising her arms, she laid them over Xena's shoulder, around her neck. "What if she interrupts us again?"

"Then I'll have to kill her."

Gabrielle snorted. "I bet you would too."

"Oh yeah." She pulled Gabrielle against her. "You know I'd do it too."

"I know." She felt herself being raised up and she wrapped her legs around Xena's waist.

Xena groaned when she felt Gabrielle's warmth against her stomach.

"Can you feel it?"

"Yes." Her eyes closed.

"Xena."

"Hmm?"

"Take me to the shore so I can make love to you."

Xena moved through the water heading toward shore laying Gabrielle down. She rolled over onto her back and raised her arms above her head. "You want me? Come and get me then."

"I will." Her hand ran down a smooth thigh. "Finally huh."

"Mmm hmm." She grabbed Gabrielle's hand and laid it over her breast.

Gabrielle smiled as she ran her other hand to Xena's stomach, lightly running her nails over her skin. Hearing her moan, she crawled on top of her. Her hands ran up Xena's arms to her wrists pinning them down.

Xena tensed up. "Stop."

Gabrielle pulled back. "What?"

Xena sat up.

"What did he do to you?" Her hand touched Xena's shoulder feeling her jump. "Hey, its okay."

Xena grabbed Gabrielle's hand and kissed the palm. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be."

Xena placed Gabrielle's hand on her breast. Using her own hand over Gabrielle's she squeezed and closed her eyes. She moved their hands down her ribs, over her stomach and stopped.

"We don't."

"Shh. I need to." She spread her legs and moved their hands lower. "Just slow."

"Okay." She felt Xena's hand move off hers. She slid her hand higher, bringing two fingers into play sliding them through the warmth. She heard Xena suck in a breath. "You okay?"

Xena rolled her over onto her back. "Can we stop."

"Of course." She slid a piece of dark hair behind an ear. "What happened?"

"Got scared."

"Can you tell me what happened...I mean with him."

"He controlled me, owned me, and he didn't mind showing it. Last time we were together, he left me so that I couldn't even walk." She felt Gabrielle's head on her shoulder. Taking a deep breath, she grabbed Gabrielle's hand and slid it between her legs. "No more being scared." She laid down and closed her eyes.

======

Ephiny looked up, hearing Gabrielle enter the hut. "You look pleased with yourself."

"I am." She sat down grabbing an apple.

"What happened?"

Gabrielle shrugged. "Just had a good day." She stood up and smiled, grabbing another apple before leaving the hut. Walking into her hut, she smiled as she saw Xena on the bed asleep. "Hey." She crawled on the bed. "You sleeping?"

Xena chuckled. "No."

"Good." She sat down and handed Xena an apple.

"Thanks." She sat up and leaned against the wall.

"So are you going back to being the Conqueror?"

"The Conqueror's dead."

"So who are you?"

She turned to her, her blue eyes glowing with warmth. "I'm just Xena."

THE END

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