Amarice pokes Gabrielle, “Come on, wake up. Today’s the day.” Gabrielle moans and rolls over, giving Amarice a bleary eyed stare, “What?” She mumbles. Amarice smiles, “Today’s the day! You told me to wake you up before Xena,” she whispers. Gabrielle smiles suddenly and glances over at Xena’s sleeping form, “Thanks.” Gabrielle rolls out of bed and moves towards the low burning fire, remnants from the night before. She glances back at Xena, then turns to Amarice, “Get my saddle bag,” she orders quietly. Amarice smiles, excited, and runs to the saddle bag, returning to Gabrielle quickly, “What are you making?” Gabrielle smiles as she stirs the fire to life, “Xena’s favorite thing in the world. Dumplings, with red goo in the middle. They’re gross to make, but she loves them and anything for her on her birthday.” Amarice smiles, “What should I do?” Gabrielle glances around the campsite, eyes landing on Argo’s saddle, “Clean Argo’s saddle. Polish it up real nice. She’ll be so surprised.” Amarice nods and grabs the saddle, digging in her own bag for oil and a rag.
Xena rolls over and smiles as a wonderful smell invades her nostrils. Her eyes land on the back of Gabrielle’s head and she smiles as the bard stirs something over the fire. Quietly she slips from her bedroll and sneaks over to Gabrielle. She bends down and kisses the side of Gabrielle’s head, “Morning.” Gabrielle jumps, then smiles at her friend, “Morning yourself.” Xena glances around the campsite, “Where’s Amarice?” Gabrielle nods towards the stream, “Washing up and refilling the water skins.” Xena smiles then eyes the contents boiling over the fire, “Tell me that’s what I think it is,” she says, hope in her voice. Gabrielle smiles, “Of course it is. Anything for you on your birthday.” Xena’s nose scrunches, “Listen I don’t want anything special. Just a regular day.” Gabrielle smiles, a small, secret smile, “Whatever you want.” She pauses, stirring the dumplings, then turns to Xena, “I heard Hercules is in Corinth. We’re close ourselves. Let’s stop by and say hello. It’s been years.” Xena gives her friend a skeptical look, then nods, “Alright. A stop off in Corinth doesn’t sound so bad. Argo can stay in a stable for a change and we can rent a room and I can see an old friend.” Gabrielle smiles, surprised that Xena was making this so easy.
Amarice returns to camp, looking a little upset. Xena notices, “What’s wrong?” Amarice looks down, not wanting to be the bearer of bad news, “When I was by the stream, I saw hoof prints. Lots of hoof prints. They were deep.” Xena nods, “Just one day,” she mutters, then louder, “Alright, breakfast, then we check out those prints.” She stares up at the sky, “If this is your doing, I will never forgive you,” she whispers. There’s a deep chuckle in her head, “Not me, Princess.” She smiles a little, then turns back to her friends, “So when’s breakfast?” Gabrielle scoops dumplings into a bowl and hands it to Xena, “Right now.” Xena smiles, digging into her meal and closing her eyes, enjoying the taste, “This is bliss.” Gabrielle smiles and hands Amarice a bowl, then gets one for herself.
Breakfast finished, Amarice collects the dishes, taking them to the stream while Gabrielle collects their stuff and Xena follows Amarice to the stream to check out the prints. She kneels next to the prints, “They’re deep. My guess is a small army went through here and it looks like they’re heading the same way we are, Corinth.” Amarice nods, “I thought so.” Xena nods, “Hurry up with this. I’m going to collect the horses. I would like to beat this army to Corinth.” Amarice nods and Xena returns to camp, whistling for the horses. Gabrielle glances up at her, “We can never have a quiet day, can we?” Xena nods, “It wouldn’t be a day without trouble.” Argo trots into camp, followed by a brown mare. Xena smiles at the two, then begins to saddle the horses. She runs her hands over her saddle and smiles, “Hm, and who did this?” She asks, indicating the saddle. Gabrielle glances over and smiles, “Amarice.” Xena smiles and shakes her head, then continues to saddle the horses. Amarice strolls back into camp, clean dishes shoved into her bag and tossed over her shoulder.
Soon, the three are on the road, Gabrielle pulled up behind Xena on Argo and Amarice having most of their supplies strapped on behind her. They travel quickly, taking a direct route to Corinth, hoping to head the army off. Close to Corinth Xena halts Argo, eyeing the Halls of War in the near distance. She gives Gabrielle and arm down then dismounts herself. She urges Gabrielle back towards Argo, “Go on to Corinth. I want to check out something.” Gabrielle follows her friend’s gaze, “You think Ares has something to do with this?” Xena nods, “Maybe. Either way, I’m going to find out.” Gabrielle nods, “Be careful. We’ll see you in Corinth.” Amarice stares after her, “Want some company?” Xena shakes her head, “No, it’s better if I deal with Ares on my own. I need you to stay with Gabrielle, keep her out of trouble.” Gabrielle scrunches her nose and Amarice smiles, “Will do, Xena.” Xena smiles back, then pats Argo on the rump, “Go on girl, I’ll see you soon.” Her eyes dart up to Gabrielle, situated in the saddle, “Don’t worry about me. Tell Hercules and King Iphicles that an army is approaching.” Gabrielle nods, then urges Argo to follow after Amarice.
Xena smiles after her friends, then turns and jogs towards the Halls of War. Feeling eyes on her as she jogs, she smiles, but doesn’t call him out. ‘Let him watch,’ she thinks to herself. She pauses outside the Halls of War, adjusting her armor, drawing her sword and fixing a steely gaze on her face. She kicks open the door and strides in. She finds Ares lounging on his throne, a slightly amused look dancing in his eyes, “Quite an entrance.” He waves a hand over the door and it closes. She smiles, “Whose army is closing in on Corinth?” He smirks and rises from the throne, slowly approaching her, “Are you really here because of some pathetic army?” He asks, running a hand down her cheek. She jerks from his touch, “Why else would I be here?” He smiles and comes closer, pressing against her, ignoring her sword as it slides through his gut, “For some fun, our kind of fun.” She raises an eyebrow, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Slowly, eyes not leaving hers, he brushes his lips against hers, “Don’t you?” She moans, sword slipping from her hands as they race around his neck and she meets his kiss with a passion that surprises them both. His hands race to her hips, pulling her against him. One hand on her hip the other goes to her back, reaching for the clasps on her breastplate. She slips from his grasp, shaking her head. He stares at her, shocked, “We both know why you’re here. Why fight me?” She collects her sword, “I have an army to stop.” He gives her a condescending look, “The world can survive without you for one day.” She shrugs, “The world, maybe. But Corinth? Not today.” He growls and turns from her, “Then why did you come here?” She doesn’t meet his gaze, “To make sure you had no part in it.” He glares at her, “You already knew that.” She shakes her head, “I had to be sure.” He nods and points towards the door, “You have your answers. Leave.” He returns to his throne, lounging and eyeing her. She returns her sword to the scabbard on her back and turns from him, grabbing the door. Pulling on the handle, the door doesn’t open. She turns to Ares, a harsh look in her eyes, “Let me leave.” He continues to eye her, “When you finish with your little army, return, we can finish what we started,” he says, look turning lusty. She smiles and shakes her head, “I don’t think so.” He shrugs, “Shame. I have something for you.” Her eyes linger over him, “I’m sure,” she purrs. He laughs, “Other than that.” She raises an eyebrow, then shakes her head and opens the door, gliding out of the Halls of War.
Leading their horses through the crowded streets of Corinth, Amarice and Gabrielle keep their eyes open for trouble. Gabrielle catches sight of a scrawny man in leather with bleach white hair, dragging a child through the streets. She eyes him, then realization dawns, “Deimos,” she says quietly, pointing at him. Amarice follows her finger, “Who is he?” Gabrielle eyes her, then turns back to watching Deimos, “One of Ares’ henchmen.” Amarice nods, drawing a dagger. Gabrielle places a hand over hers, “That won’t work on him. He’s a God.” Amarice sheaths her dagger and curls her lip up, “We should follow him.” Gabrielle nods and hands Argo’s reigns over to the girl, “Board the horses somewhere close to the Palace. I’ll follow Deimos.” Amarice shakes her head, “I should go.” Gabrielle shakes her head, “That’s an order Amarice. Now go, before we attract attention.” Amarice nods and leaves, leading the horses away. Carefully Gabrielle follows Deimos, pretending to be looking at the different vendors.
Amarice approaches a stable, near the Palace and is stopped by a strong hand on her shoulder, “Where did you get that horse?” A deep voice asks. She pulls from the man’s grasp and kicks out, catching him in the chest, “Why do you care?” The man falls back a step, rubbing his chest, “That’s Xena’s horse and Gabrielle’s bags. I’ll ask one more time, where did you get that horse?” Amarice looks the man over, from head to toe, “Hercules?” She guesses. He nods. She smiles and extends a hand, “I’m Amarice. I’m riding with Xena and Gabrielle.” He accepts her hand, eyeing her, “And where are they?” He asks, still not convinced. She sighs, “Xena went to question Ares. Gabrielle is following Deimos.” Hercules’ jerks and stares at her, “Ares? Deimos? Why?” Amarice huffs, growing impatient, “Deimos was dragging a child, a boy, through the streets.” Hercules’ eyes light up, “A boy? Around the age of three? In royal clothes?” Amarice thinks back, not knowing much about royalty or children and shrugs, “Maybe. He had dark hair.” He nods, “That’s my nephew. The heir to Corinth. We have to go after them.” He starts down the street then finds that Amarice isn’t next to him. He turns to stare at her, “Aren’t you coming?” She motions to the horses, “Gabrielle ordered me to board the horses. She’s my Queen, I must obey her orders before anything else.” Hercules looks her over, approaching slowly, “Your Queen? You’re an Amazon from her tribe?” She nods and he nods in return, taking Argo’s reigns from her hands, “Come on, let’s get these two settled in the Palace stables and your things taken to a room. Then we are finding Gabrielle and my nephew.” Amarice nods, comparing Hercules to the stories she had heard while growing up and finding him much more likable than she thought she would.
Xena heads into Corinth, nodding at the guard who eyes her armor and sword, but remains silent. She eyes the crowds, very aware of her surroundings, then lets her mind drift. Her fingers trace her lips, remembering the feel of Ares’ against her. Why had she melted into him? Why had she gone to the Halls of War in the first place? He had already assured her that he wasn’t involved with the army marching towards Corinth. Had she doubted him? No, not really. So, why had she gone? ‘To see him,’ a tiny voice in her mind answers. She growls, letting her hand drop from her lips. She sighs, she knew exactly why she went. She missed him on some level, deep down, in a place she rarely visited. Usually he showed up and caused enough problems for her that she didn’t get the chance to miss him, to crave him. But lately, he had stayed away, remained quite in her mind and she found herself missing not just their rivalry, but also his touch, his taste. And for some reason, on this day, she only really wanted one thing. Oh of course she wanted peace, she always wanted peace. But deep down she wanted him. She found herself wondering if after she defeated the army if she just might take Ares up on his offer and return to him, just for a birthday thrill, a one-time thing, a fling. It didn’t have to mean anything and she knew Ares would understand that. She remembers his words, “I have something for you.” She closes her eyes, if he was offering something other than a good time, what was it? She groans, probably just an army. He is always trying to get her to lead his army again. And if that’s all it is, she knew she would turn around and walk right out the door. But he had to know that too. Maybe for once, this one time, he would surprise her. It certainly had her wondering and hoping. She was so wrapped up in her thoughts, she didn’t even notice Deimos dragging a child through the streets, till her eyes caught sight of Gabrielle’s blond hair and orange top, kneeling next to a vendor stall, trying to look inconspicuous.
Gabrielle sneaks through the market, never letting Deimos out of her sight. She pauses at a stall, idly flipping through some garments. The vendor, a large woman, approaches, “Miss, would you like to try something on?” Gabrielle turns to her and shakes her head. The woman huffs, “Then hands off the merchandise.” Gabrielle drops the garment, not wanting to make a scene and have any attention drawn towards her. She moves on, ducking next to a stall. A hand slams over her mouth and she stiffens, trying to pull away from her attacker. Hot breath is near her ear, “Gabrielle, it’s me.” She immediately stops fighting and Xena lets go of her. Gabrielle turns and smiles at Xena. “What are you doing?” Xena asks. Gabrielle points at Deimos, not needing to say anything. Xena nods and eyes the child, “Looks like royalty. I wonder if that’s Iphicles’ son.” Gabrielle stiffens, “Xena, we have to do something.” Xena nods, watching Deimos and following him, Gabrielle at her side.
Amarice follows Hercules through the streets of Corinth, both looking for signs of Deimos or Gabrielle. Finally Hercules pauses and points at Xena and Gabrielle, ducking under the canvas of a vendor’s stall. Amarice nods and points farther away at Deimos half dragging a small dark haired child through the streets. Hercules, anger in his eyes, starts after Deimos, but Amarice grabs his arm and puts a finger over her lips, then points to Xena and Gabrielle, “Quietly, we don’t want to make a scene in the middle of town.” Hercules growls, low in the throat, “That’s my nephew.” She nods, “Nothing will happen to him. Let’s catch up with Xena and Gabrielle.” He nods and begins to sneak towards them. Amarice glares at his idea of sneaking and shrinks down to the ground, heading towards her friends.
Xena stiffens and draws her Chakram as she hears heavy footsteps behind her. A hand covers hers and she looks over to see Amarice next to her. She smiles at the girl, then stiffens again when someone kneels behind her, someone large. “Xena, it’s me,” Hercules says in her ear. She hooks her Chakram to her armor and smiles, “Hercules,” she breathes lightly. Gabrielle turns slightly and smiles at him, then points at Deimos. Hercules nods, “That’s my nephew. We have to save him.” Xena nods, “We will, don’t worry. But first we need to get somewhere open, so bystanders won’t get hurt.” Hercules nods. Xena grabs Gabrielle’s arm, “The second we get that boy away from Deimos, I want you to run with him. Get him back to Iphicles as fast as you can.” Gabrielle nods, eyes on the boy as he stumbles and begins to cry. Deimos roughly picks him up and tosses him over his shoulder, muttering something under his breath. Hercules stiffens and Xena places a hand on his knee, keeping him in place. Slowly, the four continue to creep after Deimos.
Finally Deimos exits the town, still unaware that he’s being followed. Hercules stops creeping and stands, stalking towards Deimos, Xena, Amarice, and Gabrielle following him. Xena’s eyes travel past Deimos to see an army approaching. She grabs Hercules’ arm and points at it. Hercules growls, “Ares.” Xena shakes her head, “Those aren’t Ares’ men. I think they belong to Deimos.” Hercules eyes her, then returns his attention to Deimos. Deimos drops the boy, “Now stay put,” he says, glaring at the crying child. Deimos eyes his approaching army and smiles then looks towards the Halls of War, “Ha, Uncle Ares is going to be so pleased.” The boy at his feet keeps crying, “Please, I want my mommy and daddy.” Deimos glares at the child, “Shut up brat.” Hercules starts towards Deimos, glaring. The boy spots Hercules first, “Uncle Hercules,” the child shouts, trying to run to him. Deimos grabs the child by the collar of his shirt and pulls him back, then eyes Hercules. At first he stands tall, then he spots the women following after Hercules and begins to fidget and shift his feet. He glances back at his army, then the Halls of War. “Ares!” he calls, “I’m in trouble.” Xena smiles, but Hercules just growls, “You’re in big trouble Deimos. Remove your hands from my nephew before I do it for you.” As Hercules stalks towards Deimos, Ares appears. Hercules glares at his half-brother, “You!” Ares stares at Hercules, then turns and eyes Deimos and the child pulled against him. He turns back around, eyes going past Hercules to land on Xena. He smiles at her, “Deimos, release the boy.” Deimos jerks in response, “But Uncle Ares!” Ares turns to him, “Don’t make me repeat myself,” he warns. Deimos releases the child and the boy runs to Hercules. Hercules pats his head, “You okay?” The boy nods, wiping his nose. Hercules nods and ushers him towards Gabrielle, “Take him home.” Gabrielle nods and wraps her arms around the boy, easily lifting him into her arms and carrying him away. Xena smiles after them, then returns her attention to Ares. His eyes remain glued to her, “Deimos, tell your army to retreat. I have no war with Corinth and I don’t want one. Corinth is far too useful in its current state.” Deimos whines and huffs, then trudges towards his army. Ignoring Hercules and Amarice, Ares stalks passed them, stopping inches from Xena. She keeps a hard look on her face, but her eyes shine. He smirks and leans close, whispering in her ear, “Get rid of the tag-alongs and I might surprise you again.” She smiles a little and shivers, feeling his hot breath on her cheek. He pulls away and sees her eyes half closed and captures her lips quickly. First she melts into him, then she jerks away, eyes wild. He smirks, then disappears, laughing. Xena glares at the spot he had stood, then shakes her head and turns back to her friends.
Amarice stares at Xena, first surprised then confused. Hercules too stares, “What was that about?” Xena turns to him and shakes her head, “Just Ares being Ares. Come on, let’s catch up with Gabrielle.” He eyes her, then stares at the retreating army, then finally nods, “Yeah, let’s catch up.” He starts back into Corinth, Xena and Amarice close behind him. Xena pauses once to look back at the retreating army, “Thank you,” she whispers. She hears a deep chuckle in her mind, “Just this once, Princess, just today.” She smiles and nods a little, knowing that if she hadn’t been here Deimos would have been praised and Corinth would be going to war with the God of War. And an innocent child would be stuck in the middle, crying for his mommy and daddy. She shakes her head and jogs to catch up with Hercules and Amarice, neither having noticed they had left her behind a few steps.
Hercules spots Gabrielle and runs towards her, grabbing the child from her arms and hugging the boy tightly. Gabrielle smiles and rubs the boy’s back and grabs Hercules’ arm, squeezing it gently. Seeing that the boy is safe and Hercules is distracted, she turns and spots Xena and Amarice. She approaches, nose wrinkled, “What happened? I thought it would take you awhile to beat Deimos and Ares.” Xena shrugs, “No fight.” Gabrielle looks surprised, “Really?” Xena nods, “Lucky day,” she says. Gabrielle turns to Amarice, questions in her eyes. Amarice shrugs, “Ares told them to retreat then he kissed Xena and disappeared.” Gabrielle’s eyes go wide and she turns back to Xena, “He kissed you?” Xena rolls her eyes, “No big deal, Gabrielle.” Gabrielle nods, smiling a little. She turns to Amarice and quietly says, “Only Xena would think that getting kissed by a God isn’t a big deal.” Amarice smirks and they follow after Xena, who is following Hercules up the steps of the Palace.
Hercules enters the Palace and finds his brother, Iphicles and Rena, the Queen pacing. Rena squeals, falling to her knees and embracing her son, “I was so worried about you.” The boy clings to her, tears flowing down his cheeks. Iphicles strokes his hair and turns to Hercules, “Thank you Hercules.” Hercules nods, “It wasn’t all me. Xena, Amarice and Gabrielle helped,” he says, motioning to each in turn. Iphicles nods at them, “Thank you all. Please stay as guests. Let us thank you properly, with a feast.” Xena begins to shake her head, then sees the excitement in Gabrielle’s eyes and sighs, “We’d be honored,” she says quietly. Iphicles nods and snaps his fingers. A young girl approaches, “Prepare baths for our guests,” he orders. They all follow after the girl as she leads them to separate bathing areas.
Xena glances around the room feeling eyes on her then smirks and slowly begins to remove her armor and weapons. Standing in her leather tunic she smiles a little and releases the ties, letting it fall to the floor. Now in just her white shift, she pauses, still feeling eyes boring down on her. She spins around, again checking the room, though she already knows who is watching her. She smirks and pulls the shift off over her head, then struts to the edge of the bathing area and sinks into the water. She sighs at the warm water, “Are you going to watch all night?” She asks, a hint of laughter in her tone. Suddenly warm hands are on her shoulders and hot breath is near her ear, “I could.” She smiles and turns to look at Ares, “Thank you again, for the boy and Corinth.” He shrugs, “I have no quarrel with Corinth. They’re some of my strongest supporters.” She eyes him, then nods, “Mhm.” He continues to rub her shoulders, “You don’t believe me?” She shrugs into his hands, “I think there’s more to it.” He remains quiet and she smiles, sinking into the warm water and his hands. She pulls from his hands and stands, spinning to face him. His eyes travel down her body and she waits till his eyes return to hers. She gives him a pointed look and he smirks, “Just appreciating the view.” She shakes her head, “You said you had something for me.” He nods, eyes filling with lust. “Other than that,” she reminds him. He smirks and nods, “I do. But you have to come to me to get it.” She growls, “If this is another of your stunts to get me back…” She trails off when he laughs, “No stunts, no games. I’ll see you at the Halls of War, later,” he says with a smirk. She raises her eyebrows, “Oh you think so?” She asks, leaning into him a bit. He nods, hands resting on her hips and pulling her slick body against him, “You’re curious, too curious. You’ll come to me.” She purses her lips, hiding a smile, then shrugs, “Maybe.” He looks surprised, “Maybe?” She nods, “Yeah, maybe,” she responds leaning against him more. She stares up at him, a hint of a challenge in her eyes. He brings his lips to hers then disappears when there’s a knock on the door. Xena growls, and exits the tub, wrapping a towel around herself, “Come in.” Gabrielle enters, a similar towel wrapped around her body, “Are you alone?” Xena motions around the room, “Evidently.” Gabrielle shakes her head, “I must be losing my mind, I thought I heard voices. Anyway, the servant girl says there are clothes upstairs if we want to change for dinner. She even offered to have our things cleaned.” Xena smiles and nods, “Well, come on then, let’s get dressed.” Gabrielle shoots her a shocked smile, then grabs Xena’s hand and leads her from the room.
Xena lounges back on a bed watching Gabrielle thumb through a closet. Amarice lounges next to her, looking rather tortured. Gabrielle turns around, dress in hand, “Xena, what about this one?” Xena eyes the blue dress with its gold lace straps and small gold strings holding the front together under the tight, low cut breast line. She smirks, ‘That’s not funny,’ she says in her mind, hoping Ares hears her, recognizing the dress immediately from when he had her on trial for her life. He chuckles in her mind and she smiles, shaking her head, “Alright, you win. I’ll wear it,” she says not just to Gabrielle, but to Ares as well. She stands and drops the towel, allowing Gabrielle to help her into the gown. She ties it shut and turns around, arms held up and open, “Well?” Gabrielle smiles, “Perfect. Do something with your hair. Then you can help me tie Amarice down.” Xena chuckles and Amarice glares, “I’m an Amazon, not a dress up doll.” Gabrielle smiles at her, “And I’m your Queen. For tonight, you will be my little dress up doll.” Amarice curls her lip up, “Yes, my Queen.” Xena smiles at the girl, “Don’t you just love the way she uses the Queen card?” Gabrielle eyes the two and Amarice wisely stays quiet.
Xena pins her hair up, allowing a few pieces to hang around her face in ringlets. Gabrielle smiles approvingly, then motions to Amarice who is still lounging on the bed in nothing but a towel. Xena walks up to Amarice and lays a hand on her shoulder, “It’s not that bad. You might even enjoy it.” Amarice gives her a doubting look. Xena shrugs and rips the towel away from her, leaving her nude on the bed. Amarice gasps in shock and Gabrielle stifles a giggle. Amarice glares at the pair then rolls her eyes, “Whatever my Queen desires.” Gabrielle purses her lips, “Do you have any preference?” She asks, eyeing the girls figure. Amarice shakes her head. Gabrielle turns back to the closet and removes a white gown with silver embellishments around the hem and neckline. The straps are made of small silver beads and the gown is fitted around the breasts and down to the waist line, then airy. Gabrielle offers it to the girl and Amarice shrugs. Gabrielle shakes her head and hands the dress to Xena, “Help her,” she instructs, turning back to the closet. Xena smiles and motions for Amarice to stand up. The girl obeys, looking tortured. Xena smiles, slipping the gown over Amarice’s head and guiding it down her body. Amarice twitches and tries to urge the dress to cover more. Xena puts a hand over hers, “Stop. You look lovely.” Amarice gives her a doubting look and Xena motions to the upright mirror hanging by the closet. Amarice looks at herself and tries hard to hide a smile. She sees Xena and Gabrielle watching her and grimaces, “It will do.” Xena smiles and urges her to sit down on the edge of the bed, kneeling behind her with a brush and a few pins. Amarice grimaces, “Must I?” Gabrielle nods, “Yes, you must.” Amarice sighs and sits still as Xena brushes and twists her hair, piling some onto her head and letting most cascade down her back in loose curls.
Gabrielle drops her towel and selects her own dress. It’s light green with light blue flecks decorating the bust. The sleeves are long and off the shoulder and her back is left exposed. The neckline is low and it hugs her thighs and legs. She moves in front of the mirror and turns her head upside down, ruffling her fingers through her hair. When she stands upright it’s waving around her, looking a little wild, but very alluring. Xena smiles, “You look beautiful.” Gabrielle smiles back at her, “It’s not like we get to do this very often. Might as well take full advantage of it.” Xena nods then glances down at her bare toes, “Shoes?” She asks. Gabrielle gives her an embarrassed look, “There’s not much of a selection, I was thinking we could just forgo shoes.” Xena nods and Amarice smiles a little. Amarice grows concerned, “What about weapons?” Gabrielle gives her an exasperated look, but Xena nods and moves towards her weapons and starts shifting through them. She grabs her breast dagger and attempts to put it in place, but the dress is too low and it shows. She growls and hands it to Amarice who has the same problem. They both glare at the dagger. Xena moves back to her weapons and grabs a sheathed dagger that she usually kept in her boot. Grabbing a piece of ribbon from the dressing table, she hikes her skirt up and ties it to the inside of her thigh. She looks in the mirror and smiles, seeing no evidence of the dagger. She turns and finds Amarice doing the same thing and looking much more comfortable. Gabrielle shakes her head at the pair, “We’re honored guests, do you really think you need weapons?” Amarice nods and Xena gives Gabrielle a look, “You never know what will happen.” Gabrielle sighs, shaking her head and walking to the door, “Come on, let’s go downstairs.” Xena and Amarice follow her.
The girls pause outside the dining hall, taking a moment to straighten their gowns, then Xena opens the doors and they flock in, Amarice coming in last, eyes darting around nervously. Hercules stops mid conversation with Iphicles and stares at the women, then rises and greets them. He gives Xena a hug and a light kiss, “Happy birthday,” he says quietly. She smiles, “Thanks, Hercules.” He nods and moves onto Gabrielle, “You look lovely,” he says, stooping to hug her and kiss her cheek. He approaches Amarice and she gives him a cautious look. “You look very nice,” he says offering her his hand. She takes his hand and he lays a light kiss on her knuckles causing her to blush. He motions towards the table, “Let me properly introduce you all to my brother, King Iphicles, his wife, Queen Rena, and their son, Prince Raven.” Xena nods to each, then her eyes dart back to the Queen, eyeing her midline. Rena smiles, “Yes, we’re expecting again,” she answers without needing to be asked. Xena smiles, “Congratulations.” Rena and Iphicles smile. They sit around the table and make idle chit chat as food is served. When conversation begins to die down, Xena turns to Gabrielle, “Why don’t you tell us a story over dinner?” Gabrielle smiles, “Well, I would love to tell you all about Eli and his teachings of love. Would you like to hear my story?” Hercules nods and Raven becomes interested, no longer playing with his food, but looking at Gabrielle with wide eyes as she tells the story of demons, Gods, and the Way of Love. Eyeing the child, she edits Xena’s final battle with Indrigit so as not to give the boy nightmares.
Gabrielle eyes her friend, secrets in her gaze when she finishes the story and the servants clear away the dessert plates. Wine is served and Gabrielle stands up, “Time for presents,” she says loudly. Xena eyes her, shaking her head, “Gabrielle. No, we talked about this, no presents this year.” Gabrielle purses her lips and sits down as a few servants bring in a couple of wrapped boxes. The servants set them in front of Xena and back away. Xena glares at her glowing friend and grabs a small box. The note on top says it’s from Amarice. She smiles at the girl and opens the box to find a dagger inside. She flips it around a few times, testing the balance and entertaining Raven in the process, “Thank you, Amarice.” Amarice nods, looking pleased with herself. The next is from her mother. She turns to Gabrielle, “How did you hide this?” Gabrielle laughs, “Not easily. Open it.” Xena obeys and rolls her eyes, finding a parchment filled with her Mother’s recipes, “That woman never gives up.” Gabrielle takes the scroll and begins to read through a few recipes. Xena reaches for the next box and sees that it’s from Gabrielle. She looks at the girl and Gabrielle smiles. Xena opens it and finds a smaller box inside of the box. She opens this one and finds a hair broach with dark blue stones. Gabrielle grabs it and slides it into Xena’s hair, “I know you won’t have too many occasions to wear it, but it seemed perfect for you.” Xena smiles and hugs her friend, “Thank you. It’s lovely.” She reaches for the last box and finds herself disappointed, but not surprised to see that it’s from Hercules. She opens it and finds a cloth tunic. She smiles at him, “Thank you. I’ve been meaning to get a new one.” He smiles, “That’s what Gabrielle told me.” She smiles over at Gabrielle and squeezes her hand. She leans back in her chair, trying to find an excuse to leave, wanting to be anywhere but here. Gabrielle eyes her, “You look like you need some time alone.” Xena nods, giving her a slightly guilty look, “I might go for a walk. I need to think.” Gabrielle nods and squeezes her hand. Xena smiles and rises, “Don’t wait up.” Gabrielle nods and Xena leaves the room.
Hercules stares after Xena, then turns to Gabrielle, “Is she alright?” Gabrielle nods, casting a sad look after her friend, “When she gets that look, it usually means she’s thinking about her brother or Solan. It’s best to let her come to terms with it on her own. She’ll probably find a pretty spot to think and spend the night outside somewhere, then return in the morning, her usual self.” Hercules nods, looking sad, “I know how she feels,” he says quietly, thinking about his own family and best friend. They all grow quiet, thinking about the one’s they had lost. Finally Gabrielle clears her throat and gather’s Xena’s gifts, “I’m going to turn in.” Amarice rises next to her, “Right behind you.” Hercules nods as well, “That’s a great idea.” Raven shakes his head, then yawns, “I’m not tired.” Gabrielle smiles at him, “You’re not?” He yawns again and shakes his head. She smiles at him, “Well then, how about another story?” His eyes light up and he runs to her. She smiles down at him, “I need to change, then I’ll meet you in your room. Deal?” He nods and rushes from the room. Rena gives her a grateful look, “Thank you, Gabrielle. Bedtime has turned into quite a battle around here.” Gabrielle smiles, “It’s my pleasure.” Rena nods at her and Gabrielle leaves the room, Amarice and Hercules close on her heels.
Xena enters the gardens and moving away from the Palace sits on a bench next to some rose bushes. She closes her eyes, inhaling the smell, then smiles and calls, “Ares.” He appears in front of her, smirking, “You called?” She rises and nods, “Take me to the Halls of War?” He smiles at her, surprised, then shakes his head, “I believe I said you had to come to me.” She raises an eyebrow and takes a step closer to him, invading his space, “But that would take time. And I’m eager for my surprise,” she says, looking up at him through her eyelashes. He inhales sharply, “That’s cheating. You know I can’t say no to that look.” She smiles, “No one can. So, will you take me?” His eyes flare with desire, then he wraps an arm around her waist, pulling her against him and disappears.
Gabrielle strips and hangs her gown, then pulls out a nightgown and slips it on, tossing one to Amarice as well. Amarice glares at the gown, but obediently puts it on, handing her dress to Gabrielle and pulling the pins from her hair. Gabrielle smiles, “Would you like to come with and hear a story?” Amarice shakes her head, yawning, “I’m going to turn in. Are you sure Xena will be alright?” Gabrielle nods, looking a little concerned, “Xena needs her space. Sleep well. I’ll be quiet when I come back in.” Amarice nods and Gabrielle walks out of the room and down the hall to a door with Raven’s name on it. She knocks and he swings it open, looking excited. She smiles and scoops him up, taking him to his bed and tucking him in, lounging next to him, “Would you like to hear about the time Xena and I battled the Titans?” He nods eagerly and she smiles, running her hands through his dark hair and quietly telling her story, her heart breaking a little that she was acting the mother to a child that wasn’t hers.
Ares releases Xena as they step out of the ether. She glances around the room, taking in the balcony, the fireplace, the wine bottle and goblets, and the huge bed covered in dark sheets that looked sinfully soft. Ares watches her, then pores them each a goblet of wine and leads her to the balcony. Xena sips her wine, gazing over the beautiful countryside. Ares stands next to her, sipping his own wine and letting a hand rest on the small of her back, “Had you not been here today, this land would be covered in blood. Deimos stealing the heir would have started a war the likes of which Corinth hasn’t seen sense,” he pauses, “Well, sense you invaded.” Xena grimaces and turns from the view, thoughts going dark at the memories. Ares follows her, picking up in the shift of her mood. He motions to the bed, “Sit,” he orders. She eyes him, suddenly having second thoughts. “Ares,” she starts, but stops when he holds up a hand. He approaches, “Just for tonight,” he says, voice deep and husky. She nods, grateful that he seemed to be understanding. He smiles, “You’re not returning to me, you’re not going to be my Warrior Queen or my ally, but for tonight, we can forget everything and just let things be…better.” She smiles, “I hoped you would understand.” He smirks, “Of course I do. Now, sit down,” he says, motioning to the bed again. She nods and sits on the edge of the bed. He approaches, sitting behind her and pulling the broach and pins from her hair, allowing it to flow naturally. He eyes the broach, “This is very nice.” Xena turns a little and smiles at the broach, “Birthday gift from Gabrielle.” He nods, “She has good taste.” Xena nods, “Amarice gave me a dagger, Mother gave me a scroll of recipes.” Ares laughs and she elbows him. “Hercules gave me a new shift,” she continues, “I think it was a last minute gift. He didn’t know he’d be seeing me.” Ares growls, “Hercules, hm? Well, I suppose it’s up to me to outdo little brother. Not much of a challenge when a shift is the best he can come up with.” She eyes him, “I needed a new one. It’s practical.” Ares scowls, “Practical? Yes, practical gifts are always the most memorable.” She spins to glare at him, then smirks, “Memorable? I’ll be wearing it every day, letting it caress my skin, intimately.” He growls, then smirks, “Well, then I guess I do have my work cut out for me.” She smiles at his playful tone and nods, “Yes, you do. Plus you have to beat Gabrielle’s broach. And Amarice’s dagger.” He smirks at her, “And the scroll of recipes from your mother,” he says, laughing. She glowers at him, then joins his laughter.
Gabrielle strokes Raven’s hair and leans to kiss his forehead, then quietly leaves the room. She finds Hercules outside of the room, watching her silently. He stares down at her, “You look good with children.” She smiles, then her smile cracks and the tears start to flow down her cheeks. Hercules pulls her close, rubbing her back and letting her tears soak into his shirt, “Shh. It’s alright.” Gabrielle shakes her head against him, “It’s not though, it’s really not.” She inhales deeply and stares up at him, “You know, I never wanted children, until I had Hope. Oh she was so magical to me, I thought she would save my soul. Instead she nearly destroyed me, nearly destroyed the world.” Hercules nods, listening and stroking her back, “I’m so sorry, Gabrielle. No one should have to go through all of that. Children should be a blessing not a vessel for evil.” She rests her hands on his chest, “I’m sorry Hercules. I shouldn’t have broken down like that. You have your own problems, you don’t need mine as well.” He smiles down at her and grabs her chin, “Gabrielle, I’m your friend, I’ll always be there for you, always.” She smiles and wipes at her eyes, “Thank you, so much, Hercules.” He smiles, “Want me to escort you to your room or would you like to talk some more?” She smiles a little, “Would you mind if we had a glass of wine? I don’t think I can sleep right now and I’d love to hear about your adventures in Eire.” Hercules nods, “Sure, wait in my room,” he says, pointing to a door, "I’ll grab us a bottle from the cellar and a couple of glasses.” She smiles and enters his room, letting him walk down the hall.
Amarice listens from the hall, concerned for her Queen, but not knowing what to do. She had heard the stories of Hope and Dahok, who hadn’t? She never knew that Gabrielle was the mother of the girl, the demon, Hope, the woman Dahok had used to bring his spawn into the world. It made her think about all that Gabrielle must have been through, the torture, both physical and emotional. It made her understand just slightly why Gabrielle was drawn to Eli and his talk of love and peace. It must sound like bliss to her, paradise found in the words of one man. Hercules marches up the stairs, wine bottle and goblets in hand. Amarice eyes him and he returns her stare. Finally Amarice sighs, “Take good care of my Queen.” He nods at her, “I will, I promise. Would you like to join us? I can get another glass. It wouldn’t be a problem.” Amarice smiles and shakes her head, “Gabrielle needs you, not me. Anyway, I’m very tired.” Hercules smiles and rests a hand on her shoulder, “Gabrielle will be alright. Don’t worry. Sleep well, Amarice.” Amarice nods and rests her hand over his, “Thank you Hercules. You’re alright…for a man.” Hercules smiles and nods, then releases her shoulder and continues down the hall towards his room and Gabrielle.
Xena smiles at Ares, “So, what’s my surprise?” He ignores her question, “What was the last thing I gave you?” She rolls her eyes, “An army,” she answers quickly. He eyes her, “No, personal. What was the last gift?” She thinks back, then smiles, “My Chakram.” He grimaces, “I was afraid of that. Hm, I don’t think I can outdo myself on that one.” He thinks back to that night, then smiles, “Maybe I can make this night just as memorable though.” She smirks at him, also remembering the night, “That’s going to be hard to do.” He smirks, “I do love a challenge.” She smiles at him, daring him with her eyes. He looks her over, “Close your eyes,” he orders. She raises an eyebrow, then obeys. She feels his hands slide from her shoulders, down her arms, the straps of her gown following them. She feels the cold air caress her breasts, then warm hands are covering them. She inhales sharply and hears Ares chuckle behind her, “Relax,” he whispers in her ear. She smiles, and leans back against him. “My surprise?” She reminds him, a smile in her voice. He growls, “Later,” he says, voice husky. She turns in his arms, eyes still closed, but manages to give him an expectant look. He smirks and pulls her against him, kissing her passionately and managing to push the dress farther down while still pulling her closer. She moans into his mouth, one hand racing to the back of his neck and the other to his shoulder, pushing the vest away. He smiles against her lips and shrugs out of his vest, allowing her hand to wander over his chest. Soon it’s not just wondering but grasping as well and the hand in his hair starts pulling him closer. He pushes her back against the bed and she tenses. “Relax,” he whispers against her lips. She smiles and nibbles his bottom lip. His hand rushes down the side of her breast, to her hip and she raises them, rubbing against him. He moans and lets his lips rush from her lips, down to her shoulders, then to her breasts. She arches into his mouth, wrapping her legs around his waist and grinding against him. He pulls from her breast, letting his teeth graze her hardened nipple and she groans, grinding her pelvis against him and letting her head fall back. He grabs her ankles and separates them, letting him move lower, first over her ribs, then her stomach, dipping his lounge into her navel and laughing gruffly when she squeals. She props herself up and smiles, running a hand through his hair, “I have never squealed in my life,” she says on a laugh. He smiles, “Before the night’s over, you’ll do a lot more than squeal my dear.” Her eyes light up. He grabs one of her hands and nibbles her fingers, “If things get too much for you, let me know and I’ll stop.” She growls, “I think I can keep up just fine.” He shakes his head, “I warned you,” he says, pushing her back on the bed. The first thing she feels is his hand spread on her stomach. She inhales sharply as heat, tingling, delightful, heat rushes from his hand. “You’re cheating,” she says breathlessly. “Yup,” he answers, letting his feelings, his lust, his love, his need for this one woman, rush through her, through his hand, through his powers. She moans, head moving from side to side, one hand fisting the sheets, the other pushing her fingers between his, inhaling sharply again as his strength flows through her hand as well. He smiles, eyes leaving her midsection and traveling lower. Seeing her already wet, excited for him, he smiles, then blows a warm breath over her. She shivers and clenches a little. Slowing his rushing mind, he smiles down at her, “How have I managed without you?” She hears his words and stays quiet, knowing that he’s showing her far more of himself than he ever would. He dips his mouth to her and slowly runs his lounge along her, lingering on her taste, her smell, watching her stomach shrink as she inhales and holds her breath. He repeats the process, darting his lounge into her and she groans. He forces more of his emotions, his lust and love to rush through her, through himself, then props her legs up on his shoulders and attacks her, taking no mercy, enjoying her screeches, groans, and the way she whispers his name in need. Her nails scratch against his hand and her own stomach, slowly, she crawls the hand up his arm and grasps at his shoulder as she digs her heels into his back and writhes beneath him. As his powers flow through her, she feels his mind touch hers in a gentle caress, not demanding entrance, but asking. Knowing her mind is a mush of jumbled words, most of which being is name and the words don’t stop, she denies him, not harshly, but almost in a teasing nature. He backs off then feels her whole body tighten, her nails dug deep into his shoulder, her heels stiff in his back muscles and her breath stopping altogether. He slows his assault and she wines, a pitiful noise for mercy. He smiles, growling against her and inserting a finger, once again letting his powers spread through her. She cries out, still stiff, right on the edge of oblivion. Swirling his finger and assaulting her with his lounge he allows her to fall over the edge. She screams his name, nails raking down the front of his chest, legs turning to jelly on his shoulders, breathing harsh and choppy. Slowly he crawls back up her body, removing his hand and powers from her, earning himself another wine of regret. He kisses her and she attacks his mouth greedily, tasting herself on his lips, old memories of their times together surfacing in a rush. He pulls from her lips and moves to rest her head on his chest with his right above hers. Her hand begins to creep south and he grabs it, “We have all night, love,” his voice a little rougher than usual. He feels her smile, then feels something he hadn’t expected, in one fluid motion she opens her mind to him, showing him the memories. He sighs and holds her close, “I’ve missed you, Xena.” She stays quiet for a moment, then lays a chaste kiss on his chest, “I’ve missed you, too, this side of you.” He laughs, “The horny, sex-starved side of me?” Knowing that he was never sex-starved, she growls and rams her elbow into him, “No, the one that isn’t just focused on war and blood-bathes.” He chuckles and smiles, “You’ve missed us being lovers?” She nods using her fingertips to draw circles on his chest. He sighs and very quietly says, “I would give up anything to keep things like this.” She isn’t positive she heard him correctly and remains quiet, allowing them to mentally share past sex-apades.
Gabrielle dries her eyes and shifts her nightgown, making sure nothing is showing. She gathers a couple of chairs and sets them on the balcony, then smiles at Hercules when he enters the room. He smiles back and sets the wine bottle and goblets down, then pours half the bottle in each goblet. Gabrielle’s eyes go large, “Now Hercules if I didn’t know any better I would think you were trying to get me drunk,” she laughs. He laughs with her, “If you can’t drink it all, it’s fine, Iphicles has plenty of bottles.” She shakes her head, “No, no, the problem is I can drink it all.” He shakes his head and sits next to her, handing her a goblet. She takes a quick drink and rolls it around her mouth before swallowing. A happy smile spreads across her face, then it melts and she turns to Hercules, “I want to apologize.” He scrunches his eyebrows together and shakes his head, “What for?” She sighs, “If I hadn’t insisted on going to India on a spiritual journey, Xena and I would have been here when Dahok attacked. We could have helped, maybe saved Ioloas.” He shakes his head, “No, I was dealing with things. I didn’t think Dahok was as large of a threat as he was when I went against him in Sumeria and lost Ioloas. If I remember right, Xena was in Siberia trying to rescue you from the dead at that point.” Gabrielle nods, “Then yes, but we should have been in Greece to help when he attacked. We knew him the best, it was wrong.” Hercules stares at her, “Did you know he was going to attack Greece?” Gabrielle shakes her head, “Of course not, I thought he was finished when The Destroyer killed Hope.” He grins, “Exactly.” She grins, then slowly her grin trembles and falls, tears starting down her cheeks again. He pulls her against his chest, “Thinking about Hope?” She sniffles and nods against his chest, “I can never forgive myself for everything that happened with Hope, with The Destroyer, with Dahok.” She pauses and sniffles again then glances up at Hercules, “We could have put a real stop to him, back in the beginning.” Hercules raises an eyebrow in question. She nods, “All we had to do was listen to Ares.” Hercules lets out a sharp snap of laughter, “Ares?” Gabrielle nods, “He told Xena that Dahok was evil and needed to be destroyed. But she didn’t believe him and I was too taken in by Krafstar to argue with her.” Again Hercules shakes his head and laughs, “You wouldn’t have listened to Ares either. Neither would I. He’s a lying bastard.” Gabrielle nods, “Most of the time, but he does have a bit of a soft spot for Xena.” Hercules shakes his head, “Yeah well, his “soft spot” is no reason to listen to anything he says. Every word that exits his mouth is a lie or something leading to a lie.” Gabrielle is still, “It’s different with Xena. I can’t explain it.” “He wants her to lead his armies,” Hercules explains. Gabrielle shrugs, “It’s almost as if he’s a boy in town with a crush on her. He doesn’t know what to do, so he tortures her to show his affection.” Hercules gives her a crazy look then shakes his head, “I think the wine has gone to your head. Anyways, enough about my brother, what about you?” She shrugs, “What about me?” He motions around Corinth from their seats on his balcony, “What are your plans? Are you going to stay with Xena even though you’re on different paths?” She shivers, not sure of the question that was haunting her, “I love Xena, she’s my best friend and the best thing that has ever happened to me. But I am afraid she will lead me away from the path of love and nonviolence. I’m also afraid that without me around, the lines might blur and she might go over the edge a little too often.” Hercules shakes his head, “Xena made the choice to change and not once has she gone back on it. Sure there was the little hiccup with the Horde and when her son died, but she’s very steady on her path. You though, you could do a lot of good. You could rejoin the Amazons, teach them this way of love, show them a new way, a way that might save them from becoming extinct. Or join Eli in his preaching, eventually his following will get large enough that he won’t be able to handle it on his own.” Gabrielle nods and smiles, “You don’t see me as Xena’s tag-along, do you? Her side-kick?” He shakes his head and runs a finger down her cheek, “I see you as a beautiful woman who deserves a life of her own, who deserves everything she wants out of life. What do you want most, Gabrielle?” She stays silent, thinking, “I want a family, a child.” He nods, “You could join the Amazons,“ he pauses remembering how they acquire most of their men, “Maybe teach them a better way to encourage men to help them reproduce.” She scrunches her eyes, “Another way? Most clans, well maybe not the northern clans, but the ones in Greece, are very civil.” Hercules raises an eyebrow, “Really? I guess things have changed sense I had dealings with them.” She nods, “Most have deals with towns. They move the tribe when the women of age are in season and they meet with the men of the town, or some of them that have had multiple children will go to the same man each time. Once their mate is chosen, they spend a season near the town and move on once they know who is pregnant and who isn’t. When they return the next year, they bring back the male children weaned and give them to their fathers and let the fathers see their daughters. It’s almost a real family. During the season the tribe stays close, couples who have multiple children get to stay together so fathers know their daughters and sons know their mothers. My friend Ephiny and I got this started when she bore a centaur child and her husband died. Her son actually stays with the Amazons most of the year while he’s a child, only leaving her for a season to stay with his father’s people and he gets another season where the tribe is close to Centaur lands. A few of the Amazons followed Ephiny’s example and chose a Centaur as their mate. They actually breed in the off season because both are near Corinth with the Amazons only leaving for a season or so,” she explains with great pride. He stares at her, “It’s much different. I suppose the girls are still trained the same and are taught that men are beneath them, a tool.” She shakes her head, “Not a tool. Like I said, they have a small relationship with their fathers. It makes it easier on them when it comes time to choose their own man. They are taught that the tribe comes first and that women don’t need men. It’s a man’s world, not because it has to be, but because we let them have it,” she finishes, quoting the Amazon princess that gave her the Right of Caste. “What if an Amazon wants to leave the tribe and live with her mate or bring her mate or male child into the tribe?” He asks. “Male children are only allowed in the tribe after being weaned if their father was killed and left no trustworthy family behind. Even then, once he hits puberty, the tribe sets him up in a town and leaves him on his own. Amazons are never allowed to bring their men into the tribe, it’s one of the fundamentals of being an Amazon. If one wishes to leave, she has to make her case to the court of elders and leaders, which normally consists of the Queen, princesses, midwife, seer , and the three eldest women in the tribe. If she and her mate can make a case for themselves, they are allowed to leave so long as they keep Amazon ways a secret. It’s the same when we let in new members,” she answers. He nods, “Wow, a lot has changed. Gabrielle I think you could do a lot of good with the Amazons. And it would give you a chance to have children again.” She smiles wistfully and nods, “Maybe. I’ll bring it up with Xena. If anything I should try it for a while. I love Xena , but after everything we’ve been through, I need a rest, a place to call home, people to call a family, some stability. How do you think she’ll react?” He smiles and gives her a gentle kiss on the cheek, “She’ll support your decision, just as I am. Xena loves you and wants to see you happy.” She gives him a sweet smile and he takes her empty goblet, “Let’s get you to your bed.” He stands and walks the goblets back to the table setting them down before offering Gabrielle a hand up. She takes his hand, swaying a little, then allows him to lead her to the bedroom she is sharing with Amarice.
Xena leans on her elbows looking down at Ares with a smile. He puts a finger over her lips, “Don’t ask. You’ll get your present when I’m ready, not before,” he warns. She glares gently then sucks his finger into her mouth, running her lounge around it, delighting in Ares' moan. She releases the poor innocent finger and leans down for a slow kiss as her hand skims down his stomach towards his pants. She smiles against his lips as her hand slips beneath the pants and he inhales sharply. He urges her on top of him, holding her close, devouring her lips. She pushes at the pants and he smirks against her lips. With a thought they disappear. She inhales sharply, eyes wide for a moment before her eyes turn hungry. She rolls, pulling Ares on top of her, delighting in the way his weight presses her into the mattress. He smiles down at her, shifting and entering her quickly. She lets out a moan, hips rising to meet his, matching the rhythm he sets, both hands and legs pulling him as close as possible. The attack continues through the night, each falling over the edge time and again, neither wanting to stop.
Hours later, Xena and Ares fall back on the bed, breathing heavy, covered in sweat, sated for the time being. Gradually Xena’s breathing returns to normal and she sits up staring at Ares who is leaning against the headboard, eyes closed. She leans next to him, head resting on his shoulder, a content smile on her lips. He raises an eyebrow and glances down at her, then wraps an arm around her shoulders letting his fingers dance around her collarbone. She reaches up to brush his fingers, but stops when they hit cold metal. Her eyes dart open and she pulls the necklace away from her skin to stare at it. She turns it over in her hand, caressing the image of Chakram wrapped over the hilt of his sword then lets it fall and looks up at Ares, questions in her eyes. He smirks, “Happy Birthday.” She smiles, pleasantly surprised, “Thank you,” she says, letting her lips brush his in a gentle kiss. She relaxes against his chest again, fingering the necklace. He inhales deeply, “Stay,” he orders. She tenses in his arms and pulls away, regret in her eyes as she shakes her head, “I can’t do that.” He runs the backs of his fingers down her cheek, “Just the night,” he offers. She relaxes and lets her head fall back to his chest, nodding and yawning, “The night,” she says quietly.
Xena wakes the next morning, alone in the Palace. She glances around, finding her gown draped across a chair and the room otherwise empty. She reaches towards her neck and finds the necklace there. If it hadn’t been there, she would have thought the night before a wonderful dream. She rises from the bed, grabbing a robe and going to the balcony. Rope wrapped tight around her, hand fingering the pendent, she stares out at the Halls of War with a small smile, “Thanks Ares,” she says quietly before closing the door and preparing the day ahead.
Xena rolls over and smiles as a wonderful smell invades her nostrils. Her eyes land on the back of Gabrielle’s head and she smiles as the bard stirs something over the fire. Quietly she slips from her bedroll and sneaks over to Gabrielle. She bends down and kisses the side of Gabrielle’s head, “Morning.” Gabrielle jumps, then smiles at her friend, “Morning yourself.” Xena glances around the campsite, “Where’s Amarice?” Gabrielle nods towards the stream, “Washing up and refilling the water skins.” Xena smiles then eyes the contents boiling over the fire, “Tell me that’s what I think it is,” she says, hope in her voice. Gabrielle smiles, “Of course it is. Anything for you on your birthday.” Xena’s nose scrunches, “Listen I don’t want anything special. Just a regular day.” Gabrielle smiles, a small, secret smile, “Whatever you want.” She pauses, stirring the dumplings, then turns to Xena, “I heard Hercules is in Corinth. We’re close ourselves. Let’s stop by and say hello. It’s been years.” Xena gives her friend a skeptical look, then nods, “Alright. A stop off in Corinth doesn’t sound so bad. Argo can stay in a stable for a change and we can rent a room and I can see an old friend.” Gabrielle smiles, surprised that Xena was making this so easy.
Amarice returns to camp, looking a little upset. Xena notices, “What’s wrong?” Amarice looks down, not wanting to be the bearer of bad news, “When I was by the stream, I saw hoof prints. Lots of hoof prints. They were deep.” Xena nods, “Just one day,” she mutters, then louder, “Alright, breakfast, then we check out those prints.” She stares up at the sky, “If this is your doing, I will never forgive you,” she whispers. There’s a deep chuckle in her head, “Not me, Princess.” She smiles a little, then turns back to her friends, “So when’s breakfast?” Gabrielle scoops dumplings into a bowl and hands it to Xena, “Right now.” Xena smiles, digging into her meal and closing her eyes, enjoying the taste, “This is bliss.” Gabrielle smiles and hands Amarice a bowl, then gets one for herself.
Breakfast finished, Amarice collects the dishes, taking them to the stream while Gabrielle collects their stuff and Xena follows Amarice to the stream to check out the prints. She kneels next to the prints, “They’re deep. My guess is a small army went through here and it looks like they’re heading the same way we are, Corinth.” Amarice nods, “I thought so.” Xena nods, “Hurry up with this. I’m going to collect the horses. I would like to beat this army to Corinth.” Amarice nods and Xena returns to camp, whistling for the horses. Gabrielle glances up at her, “We can never have a quiet day, can we?” Xena nods, “It wouldn’t be a day without trouble.” Argo trots into camp, followed by a brown mare. Xena smiles at the two, then begins to saddle the horses. She runs her hands over her saddle and smiles, “Hm, and who did this?” She asks, indicating the saddle. Gabrielle glances over and smiles, “Amarice.” Xena smiles and shakes her head, then continues to saddle the horses. Amarice strolls back into camp, clean dishes shoved into her bag and tossed over her shoulder.
Soon, the three are on the road, Gabrielle pulled up behind Xena on Argo and Amarice having most of their supplies strapped on behind her. They travel quickly, taking a direct route to Corinth, hoping to head the army off. Close to Corinth Xena halts Argo, eyeing the Halls of War in the near distance. She gives Gabrielle and arm down then dismounts herself. She urges Gabrielle back towards Argo, “Go on to Corinth. I want to check out something.” Gabrielle follows her friend’s gaze, “You think Ares has something to do with this?” Xena nods, “Maybe. Either way, I’m going to find out.” Gabrielle nods, “Be careful. We’ll see you in Corinth.” Amarice stares after her, “Want some company?” Xena shakes her head, “No, it’s better if I deal with Ares on my own. I need you to stay with Gabrielle, keep her out of trouble.” Gabrielle scrunches her nose and Amarice smiles, “Will do, Xena.” Xena smiles back, then pats Argo on the rump, “Go on girl, I’ll see you soon.” Her eyes dart up to Gabrielle, situated in the saddle, “Don’t worry about me. Tell Hercules and King Iphicles that an army is approaching.” Gabrielle nods, then urges Argo to follow after Amarice.
Xena smiles after her friends, then turns and jogs towards the Halls of War. Feeling eyes on her as she jogs, she smiles, but doesn’t call him out. ‘Let him watch,’ she thinks to herself. She pauses outside the Halls of War, adjusting her armor, drawing her sword and fixing a steely gaze on her face. She kicks open the door and strides in. She finds Ares lounging on his throne, a slightly amused look dancing in his eyes, “Quite an entrance.” He waves a hand over the door and it closes. She smiles, “Whose army is closing in on Corinth?” He smirks and rises from the throne, slowly approaching her, “Are you really here because of some pathetic army?” He asks, running a hand down her cheek. She jerks from his touch, “Why else would I be here?” He smiles and comes closer, pressing against her, ignoring her sword as it slides through his gut, “For some fun, our kind of fun.” She raises an eyebrow, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Slowly, eyes not leaving hers, he brushes his lips against hers, “Don’t you?” She moans, sword slipping from her hands as they race around his neck and she meets his kiss with a passion that surprises them both. His hands race to her hips, pulling her against him. One hand on her hip the other goes to her back, reaching for the clasps on her breastplate. She slips from his grasp, shaking her head. He stares at her, shocked, “We both know why you’re here. Why fight me?” She collects her sword, “I have an army to stop.” He gives her a condescending look, “The world can survive without you for one day.” She shrugs, “The world, maybe. But Corinth? Not today.” He growls and turns from her, “Then why did you come here?” She doesn’t meet his gaze, “To make sure you had no part in it.” He glares at her, “You already knew that.” She shakes her head, “I had to be sure.” He nods and points towards the door, “You have your answers. Leave.” He returns to his throne, lounging and eyeing her. She returns her sword to the scabbard on her back and turns from him, grabbing the door. Pulling on the handle, the door doesn’t open. She turns to Ares, a harsh look in her eyes, “Let me leave.” He continues to eye her, “When you finish with your little army, return, we can finish what we started,” he says, look turning lusty. She smiles and shakes her head, “I don’t think so.” He shrugs, “Shame. I have something for you.” Her eyes linger over him, “I’m sure,” she purrs. He laughs, “Other than that.” She raises an eyebrow, then shakes her head and opens the door, gliding out of the Halls of War.
Leading their horses through the crowded streets of Corinth, Amarice and Gabrielle keep their eyes open for trouble. Gabrielle catches sight of a scrawny man in leather with bleach white hair, dragging a child through the streets. She eyes him, then realization dawns, “Deimos,” she says quietly, pointing at him. Amarice follows her finger, “Who is he?” Gabrielle eyes her, then turns back to watching Deimos, “One of Ares’ henchmen.” Amarice nods, drawing a dagger. Gabrielle places a hand over hers, “That won’t work on him. He’s a God.” Amarice sheaths her dagger and curls her lip up, “We should follow him.” Gabrielle nods and hands Argo’s reigns over to the girl, “Board the horses somewhere close to the Palace. I’ll follow Deimos.” Amarice shakes her head, “I should go.” Gabrielle shakes her head, “That’s an order Amarice. Now go, before we attract attention.” Amarice nods and leaves, leading the horses away. Carefully Gabrielle follows Deimos, pretending to be looking at the different vendors.
Amarice approaches a stable, near the Palace and is stopped by a strong hand on her shoulder, “Where did you get that horse?” A deep voice asks. She pulls from the man’s grasp and kicks out, catching him in the chest, “Why do you care?” The man falls back a step, rubbing his chest, “That’s Xena’s horse and Gabrielle’s bags. I’ll ask one more time, where did you get that horse?” Amarice looks the man over, from head to toe, “Hercules?” She guesses. He nods. She smiles and extends a hand, “I’m Amarice. I’m riding with Xena and Gabrielle.” He accepts her hand, eyeing her, “And where are they?” He asks, still not convinced. She sighs, “Xena went to question Ares. Gabrielle is following Deimos.” Hercules’ jerks and stares at her, “Ares? Deimos? Why?” Amarice huffs, growing impatient, “Deimos was dragging a child, a boy, through the streets.” Hercules’ eyes light up, “A boy? Around the age of three? In royal clothes?” Amarice thinks back, not knowing much about royalty or children and shrugs, “Maybe. He had dark hair.” He nods, “That’s my nephew. The heir to Corinth. We have to go after them.” He starts down the street then finds that Amarice isn’t next to him. He turns to stare at her, “Aren’t you coming?” She motions to the horses, “Gabrielle ordered me to board the horses. She’s my Queen, I must obey her orders before anything else.” Hercules looks her over, approaching slowly, “Your Queen? You’re an Amazon from her tribe?” She nods and he nods in return, taking Argo’s reigns from her hands, “Come on, let’s get these two settled in the Palace stables and your things taken to a room. Then we are finding Gabrielle and my nephew.” Amarice nods, comparing Hercules to the stories she had heard while growing up and finding him much more likable than she thought she would.
Xena heads into Corinth, nodding at the guard who eyes her armor and sword, but remains silent. She eyes the crowds, very aware of her surroundings, then lets her mind drift. Her fingers trace her lips, remembering the feel of Ares’ against her. Why had she melted into him? Why had she gone to the Halls of War in the first place? He had already assured her that he wasn’t involved with the army marching towards Corinth. Had she doubted him? No, not really. So, why had she gone? ‘To see him,’ a tiny voice in her mind answers. She growls, letting her hand drop from her lips. She sighs, she knew exactly why she went. She missed him on some level, deep down, in a place she rarely visited. Usually he showed up and caused enough problems for her that she didn’t get the chance to miss him, to crave him. But lately, he had stayed away, remained quite in her mind and she found herself missing not just their rivalry, but also his touch, his taste. And for some reason, on this day, she only really wanted one thing. Oh of course she wanted peace, she always wanted peace. But deep down she wanted him. She found herself wondering if after she defeated the army if she just might take Ares up on his offer and return to him, just for a birthday thrill, a one-time thing, a fling. It didn’t have to mean anything and she knew Ares would understand that. She remembers his words, “I have something for you.” She closes her eyes, if he was offering something other than a good time, what was it? She groans, probably just an army. He is always trying to get her to lead his army again. And if that’s all it is, she knew she would turn around and walk right out the door. But he had to know that too. Maybe for once, this one time, he would surprise her. It certainly had her wondering and hoping. She was so wrapped up in her thoughts, she didn’t even notice Deimos dragging a child through the streets, till her eyes caught sight of Gabrielle’s blond hair and orange top, kneeling next to a vendor stall, trying to look inconspicuous.
Gabrielle sneaks through the market, never letting Deimos out of her sight. She pauses at a stall, idly flipping through some garments. The vendor, a large woman, approaches, “Miss, would you like to try something on?” Gabrielle turns to her and shakes her head. The woman huffs, “Then hands off the merchandise.” Gabrielle drops the garment, not wanting to make a scene and have any attention drawn towards her. She moves on, ducking next to a stall. A hand slams over her mouth and she stiffens, trying to pull away from her attacker. Hot breath is near her ear, “Gabrielle, it’s me.” She immediately stops fighting and Xena lets go of her. Gabrielle turns and smiles at Xena. “What are you doing?” Xena asks. Gabrielle points at Deimos, not needing to say anything. Xena nods and eyes the child, “Looks like royalty. I wonder if that’s Iphicles’ son.” Gabrielle stiffens, “Xena, we have to do something.” Xena nods, watching Deimos and following him, Gabrielle at her side.
Amarice follows Hercules through the streets of Corinth, both looking for signs of Deimos or Gabrielle. Finally Hercules pauses and points at Xena and Gabrielle, ducking under the canvas of a vendor’s stall. Amarice nods and points farther away at Deimos half dragging a small dark haired child through the streets. Hercules, anger in his eyes, starts after Deimos, but Amarice grabs his arm and puts a finger over her lips, then points to Xena and Gabrielle, “Quietly, we don’t want to make a scene in the middle of town.” Hercules growls, low in the throat, “That’s my nephew.” She nods, “Nothing will happen to him. Let’s catch up with Xena and Gabrielle.” He nods and begins to sneak towards them. Amarice glares at his idea of sneaking and shrinks down to the ground, heading towards her friends.
Xena stiffens and draws her Chakram as she hears heavy footsteps behind her. A hand covers hers and she looks over to see Amarice next to her. She smiles at the girl, then stiffens again when someone kneels behind her, someone large. “Xena, it’s me,” Hercules says in her ear. She hooks her Chakram to her armor and smiles, “Hercules,” she breathes lightly. Gabrielle turns slightly and smiles at him, then points at Deimos. Hercules nods, “That’s my nephew. We have to save him.” Xena nods, “We will, don’t worry. But first we need to get somewhere open, so bystanders won’t get hurt.” Hercules nods. Xena grabs Gabrielle’s arm, “The second we get that boy away from Deimos, I want you to run with him. Get him back to Iphicles as fast as you can.” Gabrielle nods, eyes on the boy as he stumbles and begins to cry. Deimos roughly picks him up and tosses him over his shoulder, muttering something under his breath. Hercules stiffens and Xena places a hand on his knee, keeping him in place. Slowly, the four continue to creep after Deimos.
Finally Deimos exits the town, still unaware that he’s being followed. Hercules stops creeping and stands, stalking towards Deimos, Xena, Amarice, and Gabrielle following him. Xena’s eyes travel past Deimos to see an army approaching. She grabs Hercules’ arm and points at it. Hercules growls, “Ares.” Xena shakes her head, “Those aren’t Ares’ men. I think they belong to Deimos.” Hercules eyes her, then returns his attention to Deimos. Deimos drops the boy, “Now stay put,” he says, glaring at the crying child. Deimos eyes his approaching army and smiles then looks towards the Halls of War, “Ha, Uncle Ares is going to be so pleased.” The boy at his feet keeps crying, “Please, I want my mommy and daddy.” Deimos glares at the child, “Shut up brat.” Hercules starts towards Deimos, glaring. The boy spots Hercules first, “Uncle Hercules,” the child shouts, trying to run to him. Deimos grabs the child by the collar of his shirt and pulls him back, then eyes Hercules. At first he stands tall, then he spots the women following after Hercules and begins to fidget and shift his feet. He glances back at his army, then the Halls of War. “Ares!” he calls, “I’m in trouble.” Xena smiles, but Hercules just growls, “You’re in big trouble Deimos. Remove your hands from my nephew before I do it for you.” As Hercules stalks towards Deimos, Ares appears. Hercules glares at his half-brother, “You!” Ares stares at Hercules, then turns and eyes Deimos and the child pulled against him. He turns back around, eyes going past Hercules to land on Xena. He smiles at her, “Deimos, release the boy.” Deimos jerks in response, “But Uncle Ares!” Ares turns to him, “Don’t make me repeat myself,” he warns. Deimos releases the child and the boy runs to Hercules. Hercules pats his head, “You okay?” The boy nods, wiping his nose. Hercules nods and ushers him towards Gabrielle, “Take him home.” Gabrielle nods and wraps her arms around the boy, easily lifting him into her arms and carrying him away. Xena smiles after them, then returns her attention to Ares. His eyes remain glued to her, “Deimos, tell your army to retreat. I have no war with Corinth and I don’t want one. Corinth is far too useful in its current state.” Deimos whines and huffs, then trudges towards his army. Ignoring Hercules and Amarice, Ares stalks passed them, stopping inches from Xena. She keeps a hard look on her face, but her eyes shine. He smirks and leans close, whispering in her ear, “Get rid of the tag-alongs and I might surprise you again.” She smiles a little and shivers, feeling his hot breath on her cheek. He pulls away and sees her eyes half closed and captures her lips quickly. First she melts into him, then she jerks away, eyes wild. He smirks, then disappears, laughing. Xena glares at the spot he had stood, then shakes her head and turns back to her friends.
Amarice stares at Xena, first surprised then confused. Hercules too stares, “What was that about?” Xena turns to him and shakes her head, “Just Ares being Ares. Come on, let’s catch up with Gabrielle.” He eyes her, then stares at the retreating army, then finally nods, “Yeah, let’s catch up.” He starts back into Corinth, Xena and Amarice close behind him. Xena pauses once to look back at the retreating army, “Thank you,” she whispers. She hears a deep chuckle in her mind, “Just this once, Princess, just today.” She smiles and nods a little, knowing that if she hadn’t been here Deimos would have been praised and Corinth would be going to war with the God of War. And an innocent child would be stuck in the middle, crying for his mommy and daddy. She shakes her head and jogs to catch up with Hercules and Amarice, neither having noticed they had left her behind a few steps.
Hercules spots Gabrielle and runs towards her, grabbing the child from her arms and hugging the boy tightly. Gabrielle smiles and rubs the boy’s back and grabs Hercules’ arm, squeezing it gently. Seeing that the boy is safe and Hercules is distracted, she turns and spots Xena and Amarice. She approaches, nose wrinkled, “What happened? I thought it would take you awhile to beat Deimos and Ares.” Xena shrugs, “No fight.” Gabrielle looks surprised, “Really?” Xena nods, “Lucky day,” she says. Gabrielle turns to Amarice, questions in her eyes. Amarice shrugs, “Ares told them to retreat then he kissed Xena and disappeared.” Gabrielle’s eyes go wide and she turns back to Xena, “He kissed you?” Xena rolls her eyes, “No big deal, Gabrielle.” Gabrielle nods, smiling a little. She turns to Amarice and quietly says, “Only Xena would think that getting kissed by a God isn’t a big deal.” Amarice smirks and they follow after Xena, who is following Hercules up the steps of the Palace.
Hercules enters the Palace and finds his brother, Iphicles and Rena, the Queen pacing. Rena squeals, falling to her knees and embracing her son, “I was so worried about you.” The boy clings to her, tears flowing down his cheeks. Iphicles strokes his hair and turns to Hercules, “Thank you Hercules.” Hercules nods, “It wasn’t all me. Xena, Amarice and Gabrielle helped,” he says, motioning to each in turn. Iphicles nods at them, “Thank you all. Please stay as guests. Let us thank you properly, with a feast.” Xena begins to shake her head, then sees the excitement in Gabrielle’s eyes and sighs, “We’d be honored,” she says quietly. Iphicles nods and snaps his fingers. A young girl approaches, “Prepare baths for our guests,” he orders. They all follow after the girl as she leads them to separate bathing areas.
Xena glances around the room feeling eyes on her then smirks and slowly begins to remove her armor and weapons. Standing in her leather tunic she smiles a little and releases the ties, letting it fall to the floor. Now in just her white shift, she pauses, still feeling eyes boring down on her. She spins around, again checking the room, though she already knows who is watching her. She smirks and pulls the shift off over her head, then struts to the edge of the bathing area and sinks into the water. She sighs at the warm water, “Are you going to watch all night?” She asks, a hint of laughter in her tone. Suddenly warm hands are on her shoulders and hot breath is near her ear, “I could.” She smiles and turns to look at Ares, “Thank you again, for the boy and Corinth.” He shrugs, “I have no quarrel with Corinth. They’re some of my strongest supporters.” She eyes him, then nods, “Mhm.” He continues to rub her shoulders, “You don’t believe me?” She shrugs into his hands, “I think there’s more to it.” He remains quiet and she smiles, sinking into the warm water and his hands. She pulls from his hands and stands, spinning to face him. His eyes travel down her body and she waits till his eyes return to hers. She gives him a pointed look and he smirks, “Just appreciating the view.” She shakes her head, “You said you had something for me.” He nods, eyes filling with lust. “Other than that,” she reminds him. He smirks and nods, “I do. But you have to come to me to get it.” She growls, “If this is another of your stunts to get me back…” She trails off when he laughs, “No stunts, no games. I’ll see you at the Halls of War, later,” he says with a smirk. She raises her eyebrows, “Oh you think so?” She asks, leaning into him a bit. He nods, hands resting on her hips and pulling her slick body against him, “You’re curious, too curious. You’ll come to me.” She purses her lips, hiding a smile, then shrugs, “Maybe.” He looks surprised, “Maybe?” She nods, “Yeah, maybe,” she responds leaning against him more. She stares up at him, a hint of a challenge in her eyes. He brings his lips to hers then disappears when there’s a knock on the door. Xena growls, and exits the tub, wrapping a towel around herself, “Come in.” Gabrielle enters, a similar towel wrapped around her body, “Are you alone?” Xena motions around the room, “Evidently.” Gabrielle shakes her head, “I must be losing my mind, I thought I heard voices. Anyway, the servant girl says there are clothes upstairs if we want to change for dinner. She even offered to have our things cleaned.” Xena smiles and nods, “Well, come on then, let’s get dressed.” Gabrielle shoots her a shocked smile, then grabs Xena’s hand and leads her from the room.
Xena lounges back on a bed watching Gabrielle thumb through a closet. Amarice lounges next to her, looking rather tortured. Gabrielle turns around, dress in hand, “Xena, what about this one?” Xena eyes the blue dress with its gold lace straps and small gold strings holding the front together under the tight, low cut breast line. She smirks, ‘That’s not funny,’ she says in her mind, hoping Ares hears her, recognizing the dress immediately from when he had her on trial for her life. He chuckles in her mind and she smiles, shaking her head, “Alright, you win. I’ll wear it,” she says not just to Gabrielle, but to Ares as well. She stands and drops the towel, allowing Gabrielle to help her into the gown. She ties it shut and turns around, arms held up and open, “Well?” Gabrielle smiles, “Perfect. Do something with your hair. Then you can help me tie Amarice down.” Xena chuckles and Amarice glares, “I’m an Amazon, not a dress up doll.” Gabrielle smiles at her, “And I’m your Queen. For tonight, you will be my little dress up doll.” Amarice curls her lip up, “Yes, my Queen.” Xena smiles at the girl, “Don’t you just love the way she uses the Queen card?” Gabrielle eyes the two and Amarice wisely stays quiet.
Xena pins her hair up, allowing a few pieces to hang around her face in ringlets. Gabrielle smiles approvingly, then motions to Amarice who is still lounging on the bed in nothing but a towel. Xena walks up to Amarice and lays a hand on her shoulder, “It’s not that bad. You might even enjoy it.” Amarice gives her a doubting look. Xena shrugs and rips the towel away from her, leaving her nude on the bed. Amarice gasps in shock and Gabrielle stifles a giggle. Amarice glares at the pair then rolls her eyes, “Whatever my Queen desires.” Gabrielle purses her lips, “Do you have any preference?” She asks, eyeing the girls figure. Amarice shakes her head. Gabrielle turns back to the closet and removes a white gown with silver embellishments around the hem and neckline. The straps are made of small silver beads and the gown is fitted around the breasts and down to the waist line, then airy. Gabrielle offers it to the girl and Amarice shrugs. Gabrielle shakes her head and hands the dress to Xena, “Help her,” she instructs, turning back to the closet. Xena smiles and motions for Amarice to stand up. The girl obeys, looking tortured. Xena smiles, slipping the gown over Amarice’s head and guiding it down her body. Amarice twitches and tries to urge the dress to cover more. Xena puts a hand over hers, “Stop. You look lovely.” Amarice gives her a doubting look and Xena motions to the upright mirror hanging by the closet. Amarice looks at herself and tries hard to hide a smile. She sees Xena and Gabrielle watching her and grimaces, “It will do.” Xena smiles and urges her to sit down on the edge of the bed, kneeling behind her with a brush and a few pins. Amarice grimaces, “Must I?” Gabrielle nods, “Yes, you must.” Amarice sighs and sits still as Xena brushes and twists her hair, piling some onto her head and letting most cascade down her back in loose curls.
Gabrielle drops her towel and selects her own dress. It’s light green with light blue flecks decorating the bust. The sleeves are long and off the shoulder and her back is left exposed. The neckline is low and it hugs her thighs and legs. She moves in front of the mirror and turns her head upside down, ruffling her fingers through her hair. When she stands upright it’s waving around her, looking a little wild, but very alluring. Xena smiles, “You look beautiful.” Gabrielle smiles back at her, “It’s not like we get to do this very often. Might as well take full advantage of it.” Xena nods then glances down at her bare toes, “Shoes?” She asks. Gabrielle gives her an embarrassed look, “There’s not much of a selection, I was thinking we could just forgo shoes.” Xena nods and Amarice smiles a little. Amarice grows concerned, “What about weapons?” Gabrielle gives her an exasperated look, but Xena nods and moves towards her weapons and starts shifting through them. She grabs her breast dagger and attempts to put it in place, but the dress is too low and it shows. She growls and hands it to Amarice who has the same problem. They both glare at the dagger. Xena moves back to her weapons and grabs a sheathed dagger that she usually kept in her boot. Grabbing a piece of ribbon from the dressing table, she hikes her skirt up and ties it to the inside of her thigh. She looks in the mirror and smiles, seeing no evidence of the dagger. She turns and finds Amarice doing the same thing and looking much more comfortable. Gabrielle shakes her head at the pair, “We’re honored guests, do you really think you need weapons?” Amarice nods and Xena gives Gabrielle a look, “You never know what will happen.” Gabrielle sighs, shaking her head and walking to the door, “Come on, let’s go downstairs.” Xena and Amarice follow her.
The girls pause outside the dining hall, taking a moment to straighten their gowns, then Xena opens the doors and they flock in, Amarice coming in last, eyes darting around nervously. Hercules stops mid conversation with Iphicles and stares at the women, then rises and greets them. He gives Xena a hug and a light kiss, “Happy birthday,” he says quietly. She smiles, “Thanks, Hercules.” He nods and moves onto Gabrielle, “You look lovely,” he says, stooping to hug her and kiss her cheek. He approaches Amarice and she gives him a cautious look. “You look very nice,” he says offering her his hand. She takes his hand and he lays a light kiss on her knuckles causing her to blush. He motions towards the table, “Let me properly introduce you all to my brother, King Iphicles, his wife, Queen Rena, and their son, Prince Raven.” Xena nods to each, then her eyes dart back to the Queen, eyeing her midline. Rena smiles, “Yes, we’re expecting again,” she answers without needing to be asked. Xena smiles, “Congratulations.” Rena and Iphicles smile. They sit around the table and make idle chit chat as food is served. When conversation begins to die down, Xena turns to Gabrielle, “Why don’t you tell us a story over dinner?” Gabrielle smiles, “Well, I would love to tell you all about Eli and his teachings of love. Would you like to hear my story?” Hercules nods and Raven becomes interested, no longer playing with his food, but looking at Gabrielle with wide eyes as she tells the story of demons, Gods, and the Way of Love. Eyeing the child, she edits Xena’s final battle with Indrigit so as not to give the boy nightmares.
Gabrielle eyes her friend, secrets in her gaze when she finishes the story and the servants clear away the dessert plates. Wine is served and Gabrielle stands up, “Time for presents,” she says loudly. Xena eyes her, shaking her head, “Gabrielle. No, we talked about this, no presents this year.” Gabrielle purses her lips and sits down as a few servants bring in a couple of wrapped boxes. The servants set them in front of Xena and back away. Xena glares at her glowing friend and grabs a small box. The note on top says it’s from Amarice. She smiles at the girl and opens the box to find a dagger inside. She flips it around a few times, testing the balance and entertaining Raven in the process, “Thank you, Amarice.” Amarice nods, looking pleased with herself. The next is from her mother. She turns to Gabrielle, “How did you hide this?” Gabrielle laughs, “Not easily. Open it.” Xena obeys and rolls her eyes, finding a parchment filled with her Mother’s recipes, “That woman never gives up.” Gabrielle takes the scroll and begins to read through a few recipes. Xena reaches for the next box and sees that it’s from Gabrielle. She looks at the girl and Gabrielle smiles. Xena opens it and finds a smaller box inside of the box. She opens this one and finds a hair broach with dark blue stones. Gabrielle grabs it and slides it into Xena’s hair, “I know you won’t have too many occasions to wear it, but it seemed perfect for you.” Xena smiles and hugs her friend, “Thank you. It’s lovely.” She reaches for the last box and finds herself disappointed, but not surprised to see that it’s from Hercules. She opens it and finds a cloth tunic. She smiles at him, “Thank you. I’ve been meaning to get a new one.” He smiles, “That’s what Gabrielle told me.” She smiles over at Gabrielle and squeezes her hand. She leans back in her chair, trying to find an excuse to leave, wanting to be anywhere but here. Gabrielle eyes her, “You look like you need some time alone.” Xena nods, giving her a slightly guilty look, “I might go for a walk. I need to think.” Gabrielle nods and squeezes her hand. Xena smiles and rises, “Don’t wait up.” Gabrielle nods and Xena leaves the room.
Hercules stares after Xena, then turns to Gabrielle, “Is she alright?” Gabrielle nods, casting a sad look after her friend, “When she gets that look, it usually means she’s thinking about her brother or Solan. It’s best to let her come to terms with it on her own. She’ll probably find a pretty spot to think and spend the night outside somewhere, then return in the morning, her usual self.” Hercules nods, looking sad, “I know how she feels,” he says quietly, thinking about his own family and best friend. They all grow quiet, thinking about the one’s they had lost. Finally Gabrielle clears her throat and gather’s Xena’s gifts, “I’m going to turn in.” Amarice rises next to her, “Right behind you.” Hercules nods as well, “That’s a great idea.” Raven shakes his head, then yawns, “I’m not tired.” Gabrielle smiles at him, “You’re not?” He yawns again and shakes his head. She smiles at him, “Well then, how about another story?” His eyes light up and he runs to her. She smiles down at him, “I need to change, then I’ll meet you in your room. Deal?” He nods and rushes from the room. Rena gives her a grateful look, “Thank you, Gabrielle. Bedtime has turned into quite a battle around here.” Gabrielle smiles, “It’s my pleasure.” Rena nods at her and Gabrielle leaves the room, Amarice and Hercules close on her heels.
Xena enters the gardens and moving away from the Palace sits on a bench next to some rose bushes. She closes her eyes, inhaling the smell, then smiles and calls, “Ares.” He appears in front of her, smirking, “You called?” She rises and nods, “Take me to the Halls of War?” He smiles at her, surprised, then shakes his head, “I believe I said you had to come to me.” She raises an eyebrow and takes a step closer to him, invading his space, “But that would take time. And I’m eager for my surprise,” she says, looking up at him through her eyelashes. He inhales sharply, “That’s cheating. You know I can’t say no to that look.” She smiles, “No one can. So, will you take me?” His eyes flare with desire, then he wraps an arm around her waist, pulling her against him and disappears.
Gabrielle strips and hangs her gown, then pulls out a nightgown and slips it on, tossing one to Amarice as well. Amarice glares at the gown, but obediently puts it on, handing her dress to Gabrielle and pulling the pins from her hair. Gabrielle smiles, “Would you like to come with and hear a story?” Amarice shakes her head, yawning, “I’m going to turn in. Are you sure Xena will be alright?” Gabrielle nods, looking a little concerned, “Xena needs her space. Sleep well. I’ll be quiet when I come back in.” Amarice nods and Gabrielle walks out of the room and down the hall to a door with Raven’s name on it. She knocks and he swings it open, looking excited. She smiles and scoops him up, taking him to his bed and tucking him in, lounging next to him, “Would you like to hear about the time Xena and I battled the Titans?” He nods eagerly and she smiles, running her hands through his dark hair and quietly telling her story, her heart breaking a little that she was acting the mother to a child that wasn’t hers.
Ares releases Xena as they step out of the ether. She glances around the room, taking in the balcony, the fireplace, the wine bottle and goblets, and the huge bed covered in dark sheets that looked sinfully soft. Ares watches her, then pores them each a goblet of wine and leads her to the balcony. Xena sips her wine, gazing over the beautiful countryside. Ares stands next to her, sipping his own wine and letting a hand rest on the small of her back, “Had you not been here today, this land would be covered in blood. Deimos stealing the heir would have started a war the likes of which Corinth hasn’t seen sense,” he pauses, “Well, sense you invaded.” Xena grimaces and turns from the view, thoughts going dark at the memories. Ares follows her, picking up in the shift of her mood. He motions to the bed, “Sit,” he orders. She eyes him, suddenly having second thoughts. “Ares,” she starts, but stops when he holds up a hand. He approaches, “Just for tonight,” he says, voice deep and husky. She nods, grateful that he seemed to be understanding. He smiles, “You’re not returning to me, you’re not going to be my Warrior Queen or my ally, but for tonight, we can forget everything and just let things be…better.” She smiles, “I hoped you would understand.” He smirks, “Of course I do. Now, sit down,” he says, motioning to the bed again. She nods and sits on the edge of the bed. He approaches, sitting behind her and pulling the broach and pins from her hair, allowing it to flow naturally. He eyes the broach, “This is very nice.” Xena turns a little and smiles at the broach, “Birthday gift from Gabrielle.” He nods, “She has good taste.” Xena nods, “Amarice gave me a dagger, Mother gave me a scroll of recipes.” Ares laughs and she elbows him. “Hercules gave me a new shift,” she continues, “I think it was a last minute gift. He didn’t know he’d be seeing me.” Ares growls, “Hercules, hm? Well, I suppose it’s up to me to outdo little brother. Not much of a challenge when a shift is the best he can come up with.” She eyes him, “I needed a new one. It’s practical.” Ares scowls, “Practical? Yes, practical gifts are always the most memorable.” She spins to glare at him, then smirks, “Memorable? I’ll be wearing it every day, letting it caress my skin, intimately.” He growls, then smirks, “Well, then I guess I do have my work cut out for me.” She smiles at his playful tone and nods, “Yes, you do. Plus you have to beat Gabrielle’s broach. And Amarice’s dagger.” He smirks at her, “And the scroll of recipes from your mother,” he says, laughing. She glowers at him, then joins his laughter.
Gabrielle strokes Raven’s hair and leans to kiss his forehead, then quietly leaves the room. She finds Hercules outside of the room, watching her silently. He stares down at her, “You look good with children.” She smiles, then her smile cracks and the tears start to flow down her cheeks. Hercules pulls her close, rubbing her back and letting her tears soak into his shirt, “Shh. It’s alright.” Gabrielle shakes her head against him, “It’s not though, it’s really not.” She inhales deeply and stares up at him, “You know, I never wanted children, until I had Hope. Oh she was so magical to me, I thought she would save my soul. Instead she nearly destroyed me, nearly destroyed the world.” Hercules nods, listening and stroking her back, “I’m so sorry, Gabrielle. No one should have to go through all of that. Children should be a blessing not a vessel for evil.” She rests her hands on his chest, “I’m sorry Hercules. I shouldn’t have broken down like that. You have your own problems, you don’t need mine as well.” He smiles down at her and grabs her chin, “Gabrielle, I’m your friend, I’ll always be there for you, always.” She smiles and wipes at her eyes, “Thank you, so much, Hercules.” He smiles, “Want me to escort you to your room or would you like to talk some more?” She smiles a little, “Would you mind if we had a glass of wine? I don’t think I can sleep right now and I’d love to hear about your adventures in Eire.” Hercules nods, “Sure, wait in my room,” he says, pointing to a door, "I’ll grab us a bottle from the cellar and a couple of glasses.” She smiles and enters his room, letting him walk down the hall.
Amarice listens from the hall, concerned for her Queen, but not knowing what to do. She had heard the stories of Hope and Dahok, who hadn’t? She never knew that Gabrielle was the mother of the girl, the demon, Hope, the woman Dahok had used to bring his spawn into the world. It made her think about all that Gabrielle must have been through, the torture, both physical and emotional. It made her understand just slightly why Gabrielle was drawn to Eli and his talk of love and peace. It must sound like bliss to her, paradise found in the words of one man. Hercules marches up the stairs, wine bottle and goblets in hand. Amarice eyes him and he returns her stare. Finally Amarice sighs, “Take good care of my Queen.” He nods at her, “I will, I promise. Would you like to join us? I can get another glass. It wouldn’t be a problem.” Amarice smiles and shakes her head, “Gabrielle needs you, not me. Anyway, I’m very tired.” Hercules smiles and rests a hand on her shoulder, “Gabrielle will be alright. Don’t worry. Sleep well, Amarice.” Amarice nods and rests her hand over his, “Thank you Hercules. You’re alright…for a man.” Hercules smiles and nods, then releases her shoulder and continues down the hall towards his room and Gabrielle.
Xena smiles at Ares, “So, what’s my surprise?” He ignores her question, “What was the last thing I gave you?” She rolls her eyes, “An army,” she answers quickly. He eyes her, “No, personal. What was the last gift?” She thinks back, then smiles, “My Chakram.” He grimaces, “I was afraid of that. Hm, I don’t think I can outdo myself on that one.” He thinks back to that night, then smiles, “Maybe I can make this night just as memorable though.” She smirks at him, also remembering the night, “That’s going to be hard to do.” He smirks, “I do love a challenge.” She smiles at him, daring him with her eyes. He looks her over, “Close your eyes,” he orders. She raises an eyebrow, then obeys. She feels his hands slide from her shoulders, down her arms, the straps of her gown following them. She feels the cold air caress her breasts, then warm hands are covering them. She inhales sharply and hears Ares chuckle behind her, “Relax,” he whispers in her ear. She smiles, and leans back against him. “My surprise?” She reminds him, a smile in her voice. He growls, “Later,” he says, voice husky. She turns in his arms, eyes still closed, but manages to give him an expectant look. He smirks and pulls her against him, kissing her passionately and managing to push the dress farther down while still pulling her closer. She moans into his mouth, one hand racing to the back of his neck and the other to his shoulder, pushing the vest away. He smiles against her lips and shrugs out of his vest, allowing her hand to wander over his chest. Soon it’s not just wondering but grasping as well and the hand in his hair starts pulling him closer. He pushes her back against the bed and she tenses. “Relax,” he whispers against her lips. She smiles and nibbles his bottom lip. His hand rushes down the side of her breast, to her hip and she raises them, rubbing against him. He moans and lets his lips rush from her lips, down to her shoulders, then to her breasts. She arches into his mouth, wrapping her legs around his waist and grinding against him. He pulls from her breast, letting his teeth graze her hardened nipple and she groans, grinding her pelvis against him and letting her head fall back. He grabs her ankles and separates them, letting him move lower, first over her ribs, then her stomach, dipping his lounge into her navel and laughing gruffly when she squeals. She props herself up and smiles, running a hand through his hair, “I have never squealed in my life,” she says on a laugh. He smiles, “Before the night’s over, you’ll do a lot more than squeal my dear.” Her eyes light up. He grabs one of her hands and nibbles her fingers, “If things get too much for you, let me know and I’ll stop.” She growls, “I think I can keep up just fine.” He shakes his head, “I warned you,” he says, pushing her back on the bed. The first thing she feels is his hand spread on her stomach. She inhales sharply as heat, tingling, delightful, heat rushes from his hand. “You’re cheating,” she says breathlessly. “Yup,” he answers, letting his feelings, his lust, his love, his need for this one woman, rush through her, through his hand, through his powers. She moans, head moving from side to side, one hand fisting the sheets, the other pushing her fingers between his, inhaling sharply again as his strength flows through her hand as well. He smiles, eyes leaving her midsection and traveling lower. Seeing her already wet, excited for him, he smiles, then blows a warm breath over her. She shivers and clenches a little. Slowing his rushing mind, he smiles down at her, “How have I managed without you?” She hears his words and stays quiet, knowing that he’s showing her far more of himself than he ever would. He dips his mouth to her and slowly runs his lounge along her, lingering on her taste, her smell, watching her stomach shrink as she inhales and holds her breath. He repeats the process, darting his lounge into her and she groans. He forces more of his emotions, his lust and love to rush through her, through himself, then props her legs up on his shoulders and attacks her, taking no mercy, enjoying her screeches, groans, and the way she whispers his name in need. Her nails scratch against his hand and her own stomach, slowly, she crawls the hand up his arm and grasps at his shoulder as she digs her heels into his back and writhes beneath him. As his powers flow through her, she feels his mind touch hers in a gentle caress, not demanding entrance, but asking. Knowing her mind is a mush of jumbled words, most of which being is name and the words don’t stop, she denies him, not harshly, but almost in a teasing nature. He backs off then feels her whole body tighten, her nails dug deep into his shoulder, her heels stiff in his back muscles and her breath stopping altogether. He slows his assault and she wines, a pitiful noise for mercy. He smiles, growling against her and inserting a finger, once again letting his powers spread through her. She cries out, still stiff, right on the edge of oblivion. Swirling his finger and assaulting her with his lounge he allows her to fall over the edge. She screams his name, nails raking down the front of his chest, legs turning to jelly on his shoulders, breathing harsh and choppy. Slowly he crawls back up her body, removing his hand and powers from her, earning himself another wine of regret. He kisses her and she attacks his mouth greedily, tasting herself on his lips, old memories of their times together surfacing in a rush. He pulls from her lips and moves to rest her head on his chest with his right above hers. Her hand begins to creep south and he grabs it, “We have all night, love,” his voice a little rougher than usual. He feels her smile, then feels something he hadn’t expected, in one fluid motion she opens her mind to him, showing him the memories. He sighs and holds her close, “I’ve missed you, Xena.” She stays quiet for a moment, then lays a chaste kiss on his chest, “I’ve missed you, too, this side of you.” He laughs, “The horny, sex-starved side of me?” Knowing that he was never sex-starved, she growls and rams her elbow into him, “No, the one that isn’t just focused on war and blood-bathes.” He chuckles and smiles, “You’ve missed us being lovers?” She nods using her fingertips to draw circles on his chest. He sighs and very quietly says, “I would give up anything to keep things like this.” She isn’t positive she heard him correctly and remains quiet, allowing them to mentally share past sex-apades.
Gabrielle dries her eyes and shifts her nightgown, making sure nothing is showing. She gathers a couple of chairs and sets them on the balcony, then smiles at Hercules when he enters the room. He smiles back and sets the wine bottle and goblets down, then pours half the bottle in each goblet. Gabrielle’s eyes go large, “Now Hercules if I didn’t know any better I would think you were trying to get me drunk,” she laughs. He laughs with her, “If you can’t drink it all, it’s fine, Iphicles has plenty of bottles.” She shakes her head, “No, no, the problem is I can drink it all.” He shakes his head and sits next to her, handing her a goblet. She takes a quick drink and rolls it around her mouth before swallowing. A happy smile spreads across her face, then it melts and she turns to Hercules, “I want to apologize.” He scrunches his eyebrows together and shakes his head, “What for?” She sighs, “If I hadn’t insisted on going to India on a spiritual journey, Xena and I would have been here when Dahok attacked. We could have helped, maybe saved Ioloas.” He shakes his head, “No, I was dealing with things. I didn’t think Dahok was as large of a threat as he was when I went against him in Sumeria and lost Ioloas. If I remember right, Xena was in Siberia trying to rescue you from the dead at that point.” Gabrielle nods, “Then yes, but we should have been in Greece to help when he attacked. We knew him the best, it was wrong.” Hercules stares at her, “Did you know he was going to attack Greece?” Gabrielle shakes her head, “Of course not, I thought he was finished when The Destroyer killed Hope.” He grins, “Exactly.” She grins, then slowly her grin trembles and falls, tears starting down her cheeks again. He pulls her against his chest, “Thinking about Hope?” She sniffles and nods against his chest, “I can never forgive myself for everything that happened with Hope, with The Destroyer, with Dahok.” She pauses and sniffles again then glances up at Hercules, “We could have put a real stop to him, back in the beginning.” Hercules raises an eyebrow in question. She nods, “All we had to do was listen to Ares.” Hercules lets out a sharp snap of laughter, “Ares?” Gabrielle nods, “He told Xena that Dahok was evil and needed to be destroyed. But she didn’t believe him and I was too taken in by Krafstar to argue with her.” Again Hercules shakes his head and laughs, “You wouldn’t have listened to Ares either. Neither would I. He’s a lying bastard.” Gabrielle nods, “Most of the time, but he does have a bit of a soft spot for Xena.” Hercules shakes his head, “Yeah well, his “soft spot” is no reason to listen to anything he says. Every word that exits his mouth is a lie or something leading to a lie.” Gabrielle is still, “It’s different with Xena. I can’t explain it.” “He wants her to lead his armies,” Hercules explains. Gabrielle shrugs, “It’s almost as if he’s a boy in town with a crush on her. He doesn’t know what to do, so he tortures her to show his affection.” Hercules gives her a crazy look then shakes his head, “I think the wine has gone to your head. Anyways, enough about my brother, what about you?” She shrugs, “What about me?” He motions around Corinth from their seats on his balcony, “What are your plans? Are you going to stay with Xena even though you’re on different paths?” She shivers, not sure of the question that was haunting her, “I love Xena, she’s my best friend and the best thing that has ever happened to me. But I am afraid she will lead me away from the path of love and nonviolence. I’m also afraid that without me around, the lines might blur and she might go over the edge a little too often.” Hercules shakes his head, “Xena made the choice to change and not once has she gone back on it. Sure there was the little hiccup with the Horde and when her son died, but she’s very steady on her path. You though, you could do a lot of good. You could rejoin the Amazons, teach them this way of love, show them a new way, a way that might save them from becoming extinct. Or join Eli in his preaching, eventually his following will get large enough that he won’t be able to handle it on his own.” Gabrielle nods and smiles, “You don’t see me as Xena’s tag-along, do you? Her side-kick?” He shakes his head and runs a finger down her cheek, “I see you as a beautiful woman who deserves a life of her own, who deserves everything she wants out of life. What do you want most, Gabrielle?” She stays silent, thinking, “I want a family, a child.” He nods, “You could join the Amazons,“ he pauses remembering how they acquire most of their men, “Maybe teach them a better way to encourage men to help them reproduce.” She scrunches her eyes, “Another way? Most clans, well maybe not the northern clans, but the ones in Greece, are very civil.” Hercules raises an eyebrow, “Really? I guess things have changed sense I had dealings with them.” She nods, “Most have deals with towns. They move the tribe when the women of age are in season and they meet with the men of the town, or some of them that have had multiple children will go to the same man each time. Once their mate is chosen, they spend a season near the town and move on once they know who is pregnant and who isn’t. When they return the next year, they bring back the male children weaned and give them to their fathers and let the fathers see their daughters. It’s almost a real family. During the season the tribe stays close, couples who have multiple children get to stay together so fathers know their daughters and sons know their mothers. My friend Ephiny and I got this started when she bore a centaur child and her husband died. Her son actually stays with the Amazons most of the year while he’s a child, only leaving her for a season to stay with his father’s people and he gets another season where the tribe is close to Centaur lands. A few of the Amazons followed Ephiny’s example and chose a Centaur as their mate. They actually breed in the off season because both are near Corinth with the Amazons only leaving for a season or so,” she explains with great pride. He stares at her, “It’s much different. I suppose the girls are still trained the same and are taught that men are beneath them, a tool.” She shakes her head, “Not a tool. Like I said, they have a small relationship with their fathers. It makes it easier on them when it comes time to choose their own man. They are taught that the tribe comes first and that women don’t need men. It’s a man’s world, not because it has to be, but because we let them have it,” she finishes, quoting the Amazon princess that gave her the Right of Caste. “What if an Amazon wants to leave the tribe and live with her mate or bring her mate or male child into the tribe?” He asks. “Male children are only allowed in the tribe after being weaned if their father was killed and left no trustworthy family behind. Even then, once he hits puberty, the tribe sets him up in a town and leaves him on his own. Amazons are never allowed to bring their men into the tribe, it’s one of the fundamentals of being an Amazon. If one wishes to leave, she has to make her case to the court of elders and leaders, which normally consists of the Queen, princesses, midwife, seer , and the three eldest women in the tribe. If she and her mate can make a case for themselves, they are allowed to leave so long as they keep Amazon ways a secret. It’s the same when we let in new members,” she answers. He nods, “Wow, a lot has changed. Gabrielle I think you could do a lot of good with the Amazons. And it would give you a chance to have children again.” She smiles wistfully and nods, “Maybe. I’ll bring it up with Xena. If anything I should try it for a while. I love Xena , but after everything we’ve been through, I need a rest, a place to call home, people to call a family, some stability. How do you think she’ll react?” He smiles and gives her a gentle kiss on the cheek, “She’ll support your decision, just as I am. Xena loves you and wants to see you happy.” She gives him a sweet smile and he takes her empty goblet, “Let’s get you to your bed.” He stands and walks the goblets back to the table setting them down before offering Gabrielle a hand up. She takes his hand, swaying a little, then allows him to lead her to the bedroom she is sharing with Amarice.
Xena leans on her elbows looking down at Ares with a smile. He puts a finger over her lips, “Don’t ask. You’ll get your present when I’m ready, not before,” he warns. She glares gently then sucks his finger into her mouth, running her lounge around it, delighting in Ares' moan. She releases the poor innocent finger and leans down for a slow kiss as her hand skims down his stomach towards his pants. She smiles against his lips as her hand slips beneath the pants and he inhales sharply. He urges her on top of him, holding her close, devouring her lips. She pushes at the pants and he smirks against her lips. With a thought they disappear. She inhales sharply, eyes wide for a moment before her eyes turn hungry. She rolls, pulling Ares on top of her, delighting in the way his weight presses her into the mattress. He smiles down at her, shifting and entering her quickly. She lets out a moan, hips rising to meet his, matching the rhythm he sets, both hands and legs pulling him as close as possible. The attack continues through the night, each falling over the edge time and again, neither wanting to stop.
Hours later, Xena and Ares fall back on the bed, breathing heavy, covered in sweat, sated for the time being. Gradually Xena’s breathing returns to normal and she sits up staring at Ares who is leaning against the headboard, eyes closed. She leans next to him, head resting on his shoulder, a content smile on her lips. He raises an eyebrow and glances down at her, then wraps an arm around her shoulders letting his fingers dance around her collarbone. She reaches up to brush his fingers, but stops when they hit cold metal. Her eyes dart open and she pulls the necklace away from her skin to stare at it. She turns it over in her hand, caressing the image of Chakram wrapped over the hilt of his sword then lets it fall and looks up at Ares, questions in her eyes. He smirks, “Happy Birthday.” She smiles, pleasantly surprised, “Thank you,” she says, letting her lips brush his in a gentle kiss. She relaxes against his chest again, fingering the necklace. He inhales deeply, “Stay,” he orders. She tenses in his arms and pulls away, regret in her eyes as she shakes her head, “I can’t do that.” He runs the backs of his fingers down her cheek, “Just the night,” he offers. She relaxes and lets her head fall back to his chest, nodding and yawning, “The night,” she says quietly.
Xena wakes the next morning, alone in the Palace. She glances around, finding her gown draped across a chair and the room otherwise empty. She reaches towards her neck and finds the necklace there. If it hadn’t been there, she would have thought the night before a wonderful dream. She rises from the bed, grabbing a robe and going to the balcony. Rope wrapped tight around her, hand fingering the pendent, she stares out at the Halls of War with a small smile, “Thanks Ares,” she says quietly before closing the door and preparing the day ahead.