[[True courage is not the absence of fear. But the willingness to walk through it.]]

[[When you've come to the conclusion things can't possibly get any worse, you will be proven wrong. (3rd Rule of Chisholm's Laws of Human Interaction)]]

Hermes brought them to one of Artemis' temples. They curiously looked around noting the frenzied activity by the priestesses and acolytes. Artemis herself was managing to talk to three different acolytes at the same time. She saw Hermes and pointed to a doorway.

"What's going on?" Hercules repeated as they followed the Herald.

Hermes hesitated. "You'll be safe here." He tried to inject a light tone in his voice. "But you'd better wait for Athena to explain."

The two heroes exchanged a quick look. "Ares mentioned Dahok and Thanatos," Iolaus grimly said.

Hermes gave him a concerned look. "I was hoping you didn't know," he admitted with an apologetic look. "I really don't think any of us are safe for very long."

They entered a back room where they were surprised to see Asclepius bending over someone lying in a bed. He was quietly giving orders to his assistants who moved with grim purpose.

Hercules caught a glimpse of a battered face and sniffed scorched flesh. From the amount of bloodied linen, whoever it was lay on the bed badly injured. Hercules frowned and glanced at Hermes. "Ares?" he asked.

Iolaus gasped as Hermes sadly nodded. "He actually looks a little better than when I left," he admitted.

"Better?" Iolaus shook his head. Before he could continue, Artemis jointed them.

"Hermes, you need to get going," she quietly advised. "Be safe."

Hermes flashed a familiar grin at Iolaus. "I'll be back," he promised before disappearing.

"Forgive him," Artemis drily suggested. "He's not himself."

"Yeah, he's really restrained," Iolaus agreed.

"Dahok?" Hercules asked gesturing towards the bed.

Artemis hesitated. "Yes and no," she finally answered. She saw his exasperated look. "I know you hate riddles, Hercules, but I don't know all the story myself." She stiffened as Asclepius joined them. "How is he?"

"If he survives the loss of blood...if he survives the shock..." Asclepius shrugged. "He's stubborn."

"But...he's a god," Iolaus interrupted. "This is Ares. Right? God of War?"

Asclepius glanced at Artemis who nodded.

"Not any longer," the Healing God answered. "Ares is now as mortal as you. He's no longer the God of War." He turned back to the bed. "I'll stay with him."

"Good." Artemis turned to Hercules who stood silently staring at Ares' unconscious body. "I could use your help, Hercules. I'd prefer that neither of you leave the temple until we know more."

Hercules nodded then followed the Goddess back to the main chamber. Frowning, Iolaus followed a few steps behind.

"We're all trying to protect as many of our temples and followers as we can in case of attack," Artemis explained. "If you can help here, I can check on some of the other temples. Hermes is contacting as many of the Gods as he can. I promised to check on his temples as well."

"We'll do what we can," Hercules promised.

Artemis smiled and squeezed his hand. "Sophia will explain what needs to be done." She nodded to one of her priestesses then turned back to Iolaus. "I will see your family safe to Corinth. The city is dedicated to both Hestia and Poseidon. Under their protection, Corinth should be safe...for a while."

"Thank you," Iolaus nodded. "Please tell them I'll be safe."

Artemis caught the slight change of expression in Hercules' eyes.

"Be safe, Artemis," the demi-god requested before she could speak. "Considering what's happened to Ares..."

"None are safe, Hercules, until Thanok is destroyed," Artemis gravely answered. She vanished with a sprinkle of gold and green energy.

"Thanok?" Iolaus glanced at Hercules who shrugged.

"C'mon." Hercules hoped his voice was calmer than his thoughts. "Let's see what we can do to help."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Two days later, Asclepius grudgingly allowed Ares to walk to Artemis' reception chamber. It was now serving as a council chamber. For it seemed the gods were at war.

Hercules and Iolaus also sat at the oak table. Many of the acolytes and priestesses had left during the last two days leaving the temple somewhat empty and quiet.

Hermes, having spent the last two days traveling between the various gods and temples, looked as exhausted as he felt. Yet, he managed to sit closely next to Iolaus with an exaggerated leer.

Hercules heard Iolaus hiss under his breath at the Herald. Whatever Iolaus hissed brought a laugh from Hermes who then sat upright...but didn't move away.

Hercules saw Apollo and Athena approach with Artemis. "The others?" he quietly asked.

"Poseidon and Hades are guarding their realms. Aphrodite and Hephaestus are safe in one of Hephaestus' mountains," Hermes answered. He suddenly giggled. "Don't be surprised if Hades shows up, though. He took Persephone with him when he left Olympus. So naturally, he had to take Demeter as well. And Demeter is giving him fits. He might prefer facing Thanok to his mother-in-law." He saw Iolaus' pained expression. "I'm sorry," he sincerely apologized. "I forgot."

"Easy for you to say," Iolaus muttered. He saw the hurt look on Hermes' face and relented. "It's okay. You're tired."

"Yes," Hermes sighed letting his head fall onto his chest. "So very tired." He peeked from the corner of his eyes to see if Iolaus was sympathetic.

"That's enough, Hermes," Apollo quietly interrupted.

Hermes started to argue but saw Ares and Asclepius approaching. "Are you well enough to be here, Ares?" he asked.

"Of course, he's not!" Asclepius snapped. "But you try telling him that!"

Hermes' eyes widened when Ares glared at him. The Herald suddenly became very interested in examining his staff.

Athena silently stared at Ares. Some message passed between them as Ares stiffly sat.

"If I were you, Athena, I'd be very careful," Ares advised. "Thanok may decide the position of Goddess of War is expendable."

Athena coolly smiled. "Possibly," she admitted. "Not all the gods are siding with us."

Ares curtly laughed. "Discord always did have delusions of grandeur," he admitted. "But I doubt Thanok is impressed by Wisdom."

Asclepius sighed. "Remember what I've told you, Ares," he advised. "I need to be going."

"My temples are at your disposal," Apollo coolly advised. "Thanok is not strong enough to attack me directly."

"I would," Ares pointed out. "Never discount the element of surprise.":

"Hermes, you get some rest," Asclepius advised.

"I'd love to," Hermes sighed. "I just need someone to work out those kinks and knots." He winked playfully at Iolaus.

"Gods!" the hunter muttered under his breath edging closer to Hercules.

"Be safe, Asclepius," Artemis smiled as the Healer God slowly faded from sight.

They sat for a moment in silence. Then Hercules looked at the assembled gods. "What happened?"

Athena looked at Ares who shrugged. "The best place to start is at the beginning," she decided. "Before you and Iolaus destroyed Dahok, he splintered parts of his essence, leaving them scattered all over the world. Whether he did this as a means of assuring his survival or as part of his original plan, we just don't know."

"Ares said a piece of Dahok managed to merge with part of Thanotos' essence," Hercules recalled.

"How?" Iolaus hadn't intended for his voice to be so harsh.

Athena returned his stare with solemn gravity. "You and Ares know more about Dahok than we do, Iolaus."

Iolaus glared at Ares who shrugged again.

"Who knows?" Ares answered. "As I told Hades, Dahok is a different sort of god so it stands to reason he'd have a different sort of power. Then again, perhaps that would happen to any god who was destroyed."

"You mean, there's a chance that even if we destroy this...Thanok...he could splinter again and survive?" Iolaus exclaimed. "It'll never end!"

"It will end with the Hinds Blood Dagger," Apollo answered.

Hercules frowned as the gods stared at him. "Iolaus and I can get it," he finally admitted.

"We're getting ahead of ourselves," Athena cautioned. "Continue, Ares."

Ares snorted. "I discovered what was happening when some of my devotees began turning away." For a few seconds, Ares happily dwelled on the punishments he would inflict on those traitors. Then he scowled as reality intruded. "I went to Hades, who, of course, didn't believe me." His voice hardened. "So I went to the Olympian Council. They didn't believe me either."

Hercules' eyes flickered to the other gods. Hermes was studying his staff. Artemis' eyes flashed in anger, but she remained silent. Athena calmly met Ares' eyes.

"I believe you know why," Apollo angrily replied. He was surprised when Ares coldly laughed.

"This is pointless," Athena interrupted.

"Perhaps." Ares' dark eyes met hers for a moment. "Zeus forbade any interference. He wasn't convinced there was a danger." He shrugged again. "I should have known then and there he wasn't Zeus."

"WHAT?!" Hercules shouted.

"When you rescued us from the other world, the Zeus of that world managed to prevent Father from returning," Athena explained. "He returned in place of our Zeus."

"Herc, I thought you said that Zeus was crazy." Iolaus looked at his friend.

"That's what I was told," Hercules admitted. He glanced at the others. "Nobody realized this Zeus was crazy?"

"The shift between the world plus our imprisonment had a draining effect on some of us. Zeus was one of those who went into seclusion after our return." Apollo's quicksilver eyes studied Ares who smiled in silent satisfaction.

"Dahok used that time to connect with Thanatos," Artemis continued. "Then they allied with...Zeus."

Hercules nodded. "Makes sense," he admitted. "They could plan in safety." He glanced at Ares. "How did you know they were coming for you?"

"Why else specifically target my followers?" Ares' dark eyes flashed. "It was the only scenario that made sense." He stared at the gods. "And Thanok did come for me."

Iolaus wanted to snidely ask him how that felt but decided it was wiser to keep silent. He almost grinned when he felt Hercules relax as though the demi-god had expected the hunter to blurt out what he was thinking.

"When I was called to Olympus, Zeus had called the entire Olympian Council," Ares continued. "But he didn't appear until just before he attacked me. That's when I knew he wasn't Zeus." He paused. "Thanok had possessed him. And beat me." The words hung in the air.

"You were fighting the equivalent of three gods," Hermes gently pointed out.

"He beat me," Ares snarled at the Herald.

"But...if Thanok's possessing this other Zeus...he won't want me," Iolaus stammered. He waited for the others to agree. "Right?"

"You're not that lucky," Ares scoffed. "Not even Thanok can possess another God for long. He'll need a mortal body. Yours."

"You don't know that!" Hermes angrily challenged.

"Want to bet?" Ares smoothly replied.

Artemis took a deep breath. "You should also know Thanok has released Hera," she added.

"Hera!" Iolaus angrily pounded the table with his fist. "Great! Just great! Dahok! Thanatos! Hera! And a crazy Zeus!" He glared at the Olympians. "Anything else?! Mutated hydras?! Blood-sucking dragons?!"

"Easy, Iolaus," Hercules murmured putting a hand on his arm.

Iolaus angrily jerked his arm free and glared at his friend. "I'm the one they're coming for! Not you!" He barely registered the look of pain on his friend's face as he stormed away.

"He's right, Hercules," Apollo quietly spoke. "He has reasons to be angry."

"I know that!" Hercules snapped as he stood to follow Iolaus.

"Maybe you should let him calm down," Hermes tentatively suggested.

"We'll finish this when we come back," Hercules angrily replied. He heard Ares' quiet laugh and resisted the urge to smash his fist into his face.

He found Iolaus standing just outside the temple doors. "Iolaus?" he quietly asked.

"I need some fresh air," the hunter snapped not turning around.

"I know," Hercules calmly replied. "But Artemis was right. It may not be safe outside the temple."

'Safe? When have I ever been safe?' Iolaus felt his friend's concern and sat on the top step. "I won't go anywhere," he promised. "Go back to them and make your plans." He knew he sounded childish.

"That's not fair!" Hercules snapped.

"I know," Iolaus half-whispered after a moment. He drew his knees to his chest and wrapped his arms around them. "I'm sorry, Herc. You're not like them. You never have been." He hesitated. "It just that everyone was so...calm...unemotional...even you." He smiled in an effort to take the sting from his words. "Well, except Ares. I don't think he's very calm."

Hercules grunted and sat next to his friend. After a few moments, he quietly spoke. "I'm not going to say I know how you feel because I don't. But I'm scared, too, Iolaus. This affects me as well." He stared at the setting sun. "You said you couldn't go through that again." He paused. "I can't either."

Iolaus turned his head to study his friend. "I'm sorry," he finally apologized.

"For what?" Hercules asked in surprise.

The hunter hesitated then shrugged. "For all of it," he finally answered. "Why me, Herc? Why do they want me?"

"Dahok has possessed you," Hercules reasoned. "Maybe it would be harder with someone they didn't have a connection with."

"But why me to begin with?" Iolaus pressed. "Is there something wrong with me? Is there something evil deep down inside me that calls to them?"

"No!" Hercules firmly answered. "I don't know about Thanatos but Dahok didn't care which warrior was sacrificed. It just happened to be you." He put a hand on Iolaus' arm. "There is no evil inside you, Iolaus...only good."

After a moment, Iolaus nodded. "Sorry I got mad in there." He took a deep breath. "I've got to keep a clear head."

"We, Iolaus," Hercules corrected with a smile. "We're in this together, remember?"

Iolaus nodded. "Herc, I'm sorry I asked you..."

Hercules was grateful to hear someone cough behind them. He didn't want Iolaus continuing that conversation.

"We could use your suggestions on how to proceed," Hermes diplomatically interrupted.

Hercules glanced at Iolaus who grinned. "Sure, Hermes," he agreed as he stood. "We're coming."

"Well, that's not fair," Hermes pouted.

Iolaus turned and hissed something over his shoulder that caused the Herald first to choke then laugh.

The others watched silently as they retook their seats.

"I assume that storm a few days ago was a manifestation of your battle with Zeus?" Hercules glanced at Ares.

Ares nodded. "Thanok, in addition to his own powers, now has mine. And, as long as he controls Zeus' body, he has those powers as well."

"How long can he stay in Zeus' body?" Hercules asked. From the corner of his eye, he worried at Iolaus' carefully neutral expression.

Athena shrugged. "Not for long," she answered. "He's already held it for two days. If he says in possession for very long, Zeus' madness would start to affect him."

Iolaus resisted the urge to laugh. A crazy Thanok with Ares powers and Zeus' madness. Why not?

"Possibly another three days," Apollo offered. "Possibly less."

"Probably less," Ares argued.

"Then he comes for me," Iolaus flatly added.

"Or someone," Hermes gently corrected. "But most likely you." He sounded very sorry.

"First things first," Ares briskly interrupted. "We need to get our Zeus back. He's the only one who can challenge Thanok and force him from this other Zeus' body."

"I don't suppose we could give our Zeus the Hinds Blood Dagger and let him kill Thanok?" Iolaus suggested.

"A god can't kill another god," Hermes gently reminded him. "Zeus' rule."

Iolaus gave Hercules a weak smile. "Can't blame a guy for trying," he tried to joke.

Ares snorted. "First, we get our Zeus back. He forces Thanok out of the other Zeus' body. That Zeus gets sent back to his world...or wherever. Thanok possesses Iolaus. The Hinds Blood Dagger kills Thanok." He glanced at an openly angry Hercules. "I presume that's when you confront Hades to get Iolaus back," he finished with false politeness.

Iolaus put a restraining hand on Hercules' arm. "Of course," he cheerfully answered.

"This bickering is nonsense!" Artemis snapped. "I know how you feel, Ares, but..."

"Do you?" Ares' voice was silky cold. "When were you ever mortal?" He let her silence hang in the air for a few moments. "Everything wasn't taken from you! You weren't left to fight alone! So if I choose to be bitter, it will take someone much better than you, Artemis, to stop me!"

'And our presence here isn't helping,' Hercules realized.

Apollo carefully changed the subject. "We need to devise a way to make Zeus return to his world once Father defeats Thanok. Because Thanok will only leave his body voluntarily once he knows Zeus is defeated."

"If there's a way to do that, it will be found in that Zeus' world," Athena agreed. She glanced at Hercules. "Perhaps your jester friend could help."

"His name is Iolaus," Hercules automatically corrected. He saw his partner's slow grin. This is going to get confusing. "He married Nautica, Triton's daughter."

"Hermes, find Triton and get his help in locating this...Iolaus," Athena ordered. "Arrange to meet Hercules and...Iolaus. Find out from Aphrodite how to change him from merman to man to make it easier to meet." She instinctively took a deep breath. "Hercules, Iolaus, and Ares will go to this other world. Hermes will open a portal."

"No!"

Both Hercules and Ares protested at the same time. They eyed each other warily. Both Hermes and Iolaus restrained the urge to giggle.

"Yes," Athena firmly answered. "Now is not the time for your petty squabbling. It's entirely possible both Thanok and Hera will know when Hermes open as the portal. We will try to give them something else to think about when that happens." She fixed her eyes on Ares. "You need to be elsewhere if you plan on retaking your sword and power later. They will make you an immediate target if you're here." She looked at Hercules. "You might need Ares' abilities as a strategist and warrior." Somehow she managed to look at both of them at the same time. "This is going to be brutal and bloody. I'd prefer to keep the casualties to a minimum. You two can fight later."

Hercules turned to look at Iolaus who calmly looked back at him. After several seconds of silence, Hercules turned to Athena. "For now," he agreed. "But there's no way Ares gets the Hinds Blood Dagger." He looked at Ares. "Ever."

Ares ironically smiled back.

"And there's no way you'll use Iolaus as bait for Thanok," Hercules stressed.

They were startled by Ares' almost hysterical laughter. "I can't take any more of this," he finally sputtered. He leveraged himself to his feet. "Maybe one of you can make him understand." He turned and limped out of the room.

"Understand what?" Hercules angrily snapped.

"It doesn't matter if I'm bait or not," Iolaus quietly answered. "Dahok...Thanatos...Thanok. Whatever you want to call him...he's coming for me no matter what. I don't need to be dangled out as bait. I'm already bait." He stared at the Olympians. "Isn't that right?"

"Yes," Apollo gently answered. "And it gives me no pleasure to say that." He regard Iolaus with a mixture of compassion and sadness...an expression that drew a glare from Hermes.

"I'm sorry," Athena quietly added.

"Yeah," Iolaus heavily sighed. "Everybody's sorry."

"I'd rather have Xena and Gabrielle with us," Hercules argued.

"We'll need them to draw attention away from your use of the portal." Athena shook her head.

"And they will give hope to the mortals who will soon be fighting," Artemis added.

Hercules started to argue but felt Iolaus' hand on his arm.

"Let it go, Herc," Iolaus advised with a grin. "It's nothing you can change." He cocked his head to one side. "Besides, we got it covered. Right?"

Hercules was aware of the questioning looks of the gods. "Right," he nodded.

When it was apparent neither Hercules nor Iolaus would explain, Hermes stood. "I'll go find Triton." With the snakes on his staff hissing in protest, the Herald disappeared in a flash of silver light.

"Is it safe to go outside?" Iolaus asked with a deep sigh. "I'm going crazy in here."

"My protection does not extend very far," Artemis admitted. "It would not be safe to leave the temple grounds."

"Good enough!" Iolaus' blue eyes danced in anticipation. "You coming?" He glanced at Hercules. "In a while." Hercules glared at Athena. "I want to talk with Athena first."

Iolaus glanced from Hercules to Athena then decided to take his chances outside the temple. Artemis and Apollo also decided not to be a part of the discussion and disappeared in bursts of energy.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

"Are you certain you wish to do this?" The goddess stared at her companion with concern. "Once you begin, the process cannot be reversed."

"I know." The god looked at her with sad patience. "But you can see as well as I what will happen. We...I cannot allow this to occur."

"You are the one who will be sacrificing everything. Everything. You are braver than I, my friend." The goddess lowered her head.

"Not as brave as they." The god nodded towards Artemis' temple. He could see Iolaus walking down the steps towards the nearby garden. "I only hope what we do will not make it worse."

The goddess nodded. "We can only do what we can." She gave the god next to her another chance. "Are you ready?"

To her surprise, the god nodded without hesitation. "I only hope you are able to do what is necessary...afterwards."

"We can only do what we can." The goddess gave him a sad smile. "But I will do all that is possible to succeed."

"Thank you." The god squeezed her hand. "Now hurry. We don't have long."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Hercules waited until he and Athena were alone. "I'm not sacrificing Iolaus," he firmly stated. "And Ares will try to do just that if he has the chance."

Athena slowly sighed. "There is a reason Ares deals more with war than I," she admitted. "He can accept necessary casualties."

"Iolaus is not a necessary casualty!" Hercules angrily shouted.

Athena sighed again. "Thanok possesses Zeus. We cannot defeat him without Father. That means none of us can use the Hinds Blood Dagger until Thanok releases Zeus. When Thanok is forced from Zeus' body, he will almost certainly come for Iolaus." She coolly observed Hercules' angry glare. "If he does not take Iolaus, he will take another mortal. Is Iolaus' life more important than anyone else's?"

"Yes!" Hercules doggedly snapped.

"And how many other lives are worth Iolaus'?" Athena relentlessly prodded. When he refused to answer, she slowly stood. "If Thanok takes another mortal, many of them will die before we can locate him. How many lives are you willing to sacrifice to save Iolaus?" Hercules refused to look at her as she walked around the table. Standing behind him, Athena slowly rested her hands on his shoulders. "We will do all we can to reclaim Iolaus," she quietly promised.

"If Iolaus is possessed by Thanok when the Hinds Blood Dagger is used, can he be reclaimed?" Hercules' voice was full of anguish. "Iolaus will be destroyed as well, won't he?"

"I honestly don't know," Athena quietly admitted. "But we will do all we can to reclaim him. I promise you, my brother."

Hercules slowly stood. He looked at his half-sister with ice in his blue eyes. "The gods help you if you don't," he quietly warned.

Athena watched as he left the temple. Her grey eyes flickered to one side as she saw a shadow move.

"Can he be trusted to do it?" Ares asked stepping into the light.

Athena studied him for a moment. "He will do what is necessary," she finally answered. "As will Iolaus." She stared into Ares' dark eyes. "As will you."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Hercules sat on the temple steps for a long time to get himself under control before going to find Iolaus. He finally found the hunter staring into a pond close to the edge of the temple grounds. The silver cast of the rising moon was eerily reflected in the still water. "Kinda close to the edge of the grounds, aren't you?" he tried to joke.

Iolaus looked up in surprise then smiled. "All things considered, sitting here isn't so dangerous." His blue eyes twinkled.

Hercules grinned in response at he sat next to his friend. He casually looked into the pond. "Must be something interesting in there the way you were staring."

"Not really," Iolaus admitted. "Just thought I needed to get myself under control." He glanced at his friend. "I hate to admit it, but Ares is right. I'll have to be possessed by Thanok in order for the Hinds Blood Dagger to be used on him...to destroy him." Despite himself, he shuddered. "Just make sure it's done quickly. Give the dagger to Ares and then get it back from him when...it's done."

"Iolaus..." Hercules began.

"No," Iolaus interrupted. "I shouldn't have asked that of you. I'm sorry I asked it in the first place. I guess I just panicked."

"You didn't panic," Hercules assured him. "You're just worried about what might happen."

Iolaus nodded his blue eyes fixed on something in the distance only he could see. "I still am," he mused.

"I made you a promise." Hercules put a hand on his friend's arm. "I mean to keep it. So don't worry about me."

After a moment, Iolaus nodded. "But not before you try everything else. Right?" he grinned.

"Right," Hercules admitted. "Glad we're in agreement about that."

Iolaus chuckled. "Hey!" he said after a moment. "I just realized something."

"Don't strain yourself," Hercules muttered stretching out on the ground.

"I just realized I get to meet my twin!" Iolaus grinned at Hercules' expression. "The other Iolaus!" "Yeah," Hercules drily answered. "I can hardly wait."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Late the next day, Hercules saw the former jester sitting on the beach staring out at the sea. Hermes had delivered them to the beach then disappeared. "Many many errands to run, you know," he grinned at Hercules. "Hopefully the diversion will be ready when you call."

Ares and Iolaus just stood staring down at the figure who seemed oblivious to their arrival.

"Another irritating blonde," Ares muttered in disgust.

Hercules gave him a warning look then slowly headed towards the water. Iolaus hesitated then followed.

The figure, hearing their approach, jumped to his feet with a nervous twitch. Then his face broke into a wide smile. "Hercules!" he shouted.

"Hello, Iolaus," Hercules grinned. He chuckled as the smaller man hugged him closely. "It's good to see you again. How's Nautica?"

"She's fine," Iolaus beamed. "She sends her love." He glanced past Hercules and his smile faltered. Slowly he stepped to one side and took a couple of steps towards Iolaus who had also stopped in surprise.

The two men eyed each other with a mixture of surprise and trepidation. Each man recognized the familiar blonde hair...blue eyes...features so similar. They stole looks at their own hands before glancing at the others' hands.

"Iolaus...meet Iolaus," Hercules said almost helplessly.

"It's an honor." The former jester hesitantly held out his hand.

Slowly the hunter shook his hand then grinned. "Gods, this is incredible!"

"As if I didn't have enough to make my head ache," Ares grumbled. "Are we supposed to call both of you by the same name?"

"Call me Io," the former jester suggested with a shy smile. "That's what Nautica calls me." He blushed slightly as Iolaus grinned.

"You know, I remember this girl who once..." the hunter began.

"Iolaus!" Hercules quickly interrupted. When the hunter innocently looked at him, he closed his eyes. "Not now." He ignored Iolaus' giggle. "How about we make camp?" he suggested.

The two blondes walked ahead their voices low in conversation. Hercules stopped Ares as he began to follow. "Don't make trouble," he advised. "I don't need you along no matter what Athena says."

"Why, brother, are you jealous or something?" Ares' dark eyes twinkled. "Afraid I'll put a damper on your little reunion party?" He shrugged. "Look on the bright side. You've already got a replacement buddy all lined up."

Hercules grabbed Ares by the vest and jerked him close. "Ares.." he warningly began.

"Herc! You coming?"

Hercules glanced over his shoulder to see Iolaus staring at him in concern. "Sure, Iolaus," he grimly answered. "We'll be right there."

Iolaus hesitated then nodded. He turned away and walked towards the campsite Io was building.

"I mean it, Ares," Hercules quietly warned. "Don't make trouble or hurt either of them." He paused. "Just remember. You're mortal now. And I will hurt you."

"I'll keep that in mind," Ares hissed. "Trust me. I'm not forgetting anything."

Io glanced up as Iolaus dropped to the sand with a sigh. "Are they fighting?" he hesitantly asked.

"Most likely," Iolaus nodded with a grin. "Is this as...unreal to you as it is to me?"

Io hung his head. "Yes," he mumbled. "But then I'm not a hero like you." He shyly glanced at his twin.

"That's not what I've heard." Iolaus glanced over his shoulder as Hercules and Ares approached. "We'll talk later," he promised.

Hercules was slightly surprised to see the two blondes giving each other identical grins. This was going to take some getting used to.

Ares slowly eased to the ground favoring his injured left leg. He saw Io staring curiously. "Yes, I'm mortal and I'm hurt!" he snapped. "Any comments?"

"Ummm...would you like some wine?" Io hesitantly held out a wineskin. "Triton sent it," he added when Ares stared at him. After a moment's silence, he set it in the sand between them. "I'll just...leave it here." He quickly turned away.

"At least Triton has decent wine," Ares grumbled. He watched in silence as the other three made camp and prepared the food. Occasionally, he fingered the hilt of his sword, a gesture not lost on the others.

When the food was ready, Io automatically handed a plate to Ares who accepted it as his due. Hercules, recalling how the former jester had tried to serve him when they'd returned from Io's world, frowned at Ares in silent warning.

"Am I supposed to refuse it?" Ares innocently asked. "That would be exceptionally...rude, wouldn't it?"

Iolaus could have sworn he heard Hercules' back teeth grinding in frustration. He raised his eyebrows in silent confusion as he handed Hercules a plate of food.

Ares' dark eyes slowly moved from his plate...to Hercules...to Hercules' plate...and back to Hercules. Then he dissolved into ironic laughter at the slow flush appearing on the demi-god's face.

Both blondes looked from Hercules to Ares then at each other. Iolaus shrugged and began eating. "So you married one of Triton's daughters, huh?" he grinned at Io. "How did that happen?"

Io nervously glanced at Hercules and Ares who were glaring at one another. Slowly he told Iolaus of meeting and marrying Nautica. Eventually Hercules relaxed listening to Io's recollections. Ares stared into the darkness completely bored.

As they finished eating, Hercules smiled at Io. "We appreciate you coming, Iola...Io." He grinned at Iolaus' smile. "How much did Hermes tell you?"

"Quite a bit," Io admitted staring into the fire. "You know, he's an awfully nice person...at least he was to me." Fortunately, he didn't see the quick look Iolaus gave Hercules and the resigned nod the demi-god returned to his friend. "He said you're hoping to find something to force Zeus...my Zeus...my old Zeus back to my world...my old world." He looked up with a smile. "I've been thinking about it."

Ares felt his eyes begin to glaze.

"The only object that might help is the Chronos Stone," Io continued.

Ares' eyes focused on the former jester. "The Chronos Stone allows time travel," he mused. "Is yours different?"

"Time travel?" Io's blue eyes widened then he shivered. "That would be awful!"

"That would depend on how it's used," Hercules slowly answered. "In our case, it saved my life when..."

"Save the ancient history for your next reunion," Ares interrupted. He ignored Hercules' angry glare and turned to Io. "What does your Chronos Stone do?"

Io nervously swallowed. "It allows one god to imprison another within the stone." His eyes flickered away from Ares. "If the Chronos Stone is destroyed, the imprisoned god is also destroyed. Unless another god is willing to take his place, the imprisoned god is trapped for all eternity."

"That could work," Ares nodded as he settled back.

Despite himself, Hercules felt a sudden rush of hope. "If one of the Gods could trap Thanok in the Chronos Stone, we wouldn't have to use the Hinds Blood Dagger." He stared at Iolaus.

"Maybe," Iolaus slowly nodded. "But won't the Zeus of that world recognize the Stone? That means Thanok would recognize it."

"It's still worth a try," Hercules decided. He glanced at Io. "Do you know where to find the Chronos Stone, Io?"

"The gods agreed there was only one of them whom they all trusted to hold it in safety," Io explained. "The goddess, Callisto. Blessed be her name."

"Callisto!?" Ares and Iolaus simultaneously shouted.

"Blessed be her name?" Hercules echoed.

Io looked up in surprise. "Yes," he gently smiled. "Callisto. She of purity and compassion."

"Purity?" Iolaus looked stunned.

"Compassion?" Ares roared in laughter.

"Callisto?" Hercules frowned.

Io looked from one to the next to the next. "Callisto is different here?" he asked.

"You might say that," Hercules grinned.

"Think of Discord with a real bad attitude," Ares coldly smiled as he settled back into the shadows.

"How do we find Callisto?" Hercules asked.

"She used to have many temples. But the Sovereign wanted the Chronos Stone." Io frowned lost in the memory of those dark days. "He destroyed her temples and vowed to see her dead when she refused to give it to him. Despite the rewards he offered, no one betrayed her. She told her followers not to put themselves in danger for her sake when the Sovereign began torturing and killing them. But no one betrayed her either to the Sovereign or to the Empress."

"Were you a follower?" Hercules quietly asked.

Io sadly shook his head. Even in the twilight, they saw tears glistening in his blue eyes. "I wasn't brave enough," he half-whispered. "I...I would have betrayed her."

"No, you wouldn't," Hercules gently argued. "It's not in you to betray anyone."

Ares, his face hidden in the shadows, rolled his eyes in disgust.

Io gratefully smiled at Hercules. "I wouldn't know where to look for her," he continued in a shaky voice. "But since the Empress has been imprisoned, her temples might have been restored."

"Then we start there," Hercules decided. He glanced at Iolaus with a slight smile. "I guess we need to call Hermes," he teased. He chuckled at his partner's groan. Glancing skyward, he called, "Hermes! Now!"

The Herald arrived with an impressive show of silver energy.

"Why not just announce to Thanok where we are?" Ares snapped.

"He's busy," Hermes assured him with a grin. "You know, Xena is a very inventive woman."

Ares, Hercules, and Iolaus all nodded at the same time...then scowled when they realized what they'd done.

Hermes' sigh broke the serious mood. "You know," he murmured to Hercules. "Seeing the two of them together..." He looked at the two blondes as his voice trailed away.

"Not now, Hermes," Hercules quickly interrupted. "And, by the way, leave Io alone. He doesn't understand you the way Iolaus does."

"Iolaus understands me?" Hermes' eyes widened in glee.

"He understands you," Hercules drily assured him.

Iolaus' eyes narrowed as he saw Hermes' expression. He made a mental note to ask Hercules just what he'd told the Herald.

"How soon can you open the portal?" Hercules asked.

"Dawn," Hermes briskly replied. "By then everyone will be in place to give Thanok and Hera a headache." He eyed them seriously. "Despite all the planning, a lot of mortals are going to be hurt or die for this diversion. I hope you find what we need."

"So do I," Hercules grimly nodded. "So do I."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The campfire burned low in the dark night. Gentle waves lapped at the shoreline. Despite Hermes' promise their location was protected, Iolaus and Io kept the first watch. Later they would sleep while Ares and Hercules kept watch. 'Assuming we can sleep through the arguing', Iolaus told himself.

For now, the two blondes sat quietly talking while keeping watch over their sleeping companions. Iolaus found himself in the unusual postion of being admired by Io almost as much as the former jester seemed to admire Hercules.

"How can you do it?" Io shyly asked. "I mean, be a hero every day? I knew I wasn't much better than a hindrance to Hercules, but you..."

Iolaus was grateful the near pitch blackness hid his flush. "Wait a minute," he protested. "First of all, Herc and I have been friends since we were kids. We found our paths together. Naturally, we know how to fight together and make it look easy." He stared at his twin. "As far as you being a hindrance, Herc never said that. In fact, he said you were a hero just waiting to happen."

"He's just being kind," Io stammered. "I'm no hero."

"You're here, aren't you?" Iolaus pointed out. "You could have told Hermes what we needed to know and stayed underwater." He scanned the surrounding darkness. Not sensing anyone, he looked at this twin. "And..." he paused for effect. "You had the courage to leave what was known, however uncomfortable, and go to a completely unknown world. And...you did it more than once." He chuckled at Io's surprised expression. "That's courage." He glanced at his sleeping partner. "And you stayed by his side. Sometimes that's not always easy to do either."

Io's head dropped in embarrassment. "I never thought of it like that," he admitted. "It would have been impossible if I'd tried to live up to your reputation. Hercules made me see I didn't need to do that."

Iolaus grinned. "Considering some parts of my reputation, that was best," he teased. He saw Io's confused look and softly laughed. "It's best to make your own reputation."

Io slowly nodded. After several moments of silence, he hesitantly looked at his twin. "How can you...Hermes said Thanok would possess you and someone would use the Hinds Blood Dagger and that would kill Thanok and you would die and..." His voice trailed off. "I'm babbling, aren't I?"

Iolaus stared at his twin in shock. "Gods, I never even thought...my death could kill you." 'I can't allow that to happen. I need to...'

Io quickly shook his head. "No, Hermes said that connection is broken," he assured him. "Something about your gods inhabiting my world." He shrugged. "I didn't understand it but he seemed very sure. After all, Hercules didn't die when the Sovereign died. And I didn't die when Dahok killed..." He lowered his head. "Sorry," he mumbled.

Iolaus took a deep breath. "It's okay," he said with a relieved smile. "At least you'll be safe."

Io stared at him. "I couldn't do it," he whispered. "That's why you're the hero."

Iolaus uncomfortably shrugged. "I didn't ask for this," he reminded his twin. "And I don't have a choice. So I don't know how much of a hero I am about this."

Io took a deep breath. "Do you think I could come with you?" He rushed the words as though afraid he wouldn't say them unless he spoke them quickly. "I might be able to help."

Iolaus studied him for a moment. "Do you really want to go back?" he asked in surprise.

"Oh, no!" Io vehemently shook his head. "It's just that..." He lowered his head again. "It doesn't matter."

Iolaus tried not to smile. He knew he sometimes irritated Hercules with his cockiness...sometimes even on purpose. But Io's lack of self-worth must have driven the demi-god to almost pull out his hair in frustration. "It matters," Iolaus quietly replied. He stared into the darkness for a few seconds. "I don't have the right to ask you this," he began. He turned and saw the mixed emotions on Io's face.

"I want to help," Io replied in a quiet voice. "I'm just afraid I won't do it right."

Iolaus nodded. "Yeah, I know the feeling," he admitted. He fixed his twin with a deadly serious expression. "Are you sure?"

Io stared at the other man then slowly took a deep breath. "Yes," he answered.

"Listen to what I want and think about it," Iolaus advised. "Then answer me in the morning." He grinned. "You might change your mind."

Hours later, Iolaus gently shook Hercules' shoulder. "Your turn," he yawned.

Hercules rubbed his eyes as Iolaus flopped onto the sand next to him. He saw Io quickly dance back as Ares rolled to his feet his sword grasped in his hand. The former jester backed away and stretched out close to Iolaus.

The half-brothers glared at each other in silence. Without speaking, they walked to opposite ends of the campsite. Hercules wasn't sure, but he thought he heard soft twin giggles.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The remaining hours of the night haunted Hercules. Being reunited with Io recalled the dark days between Iolaus' death and Io's journey to this world. He knew Ioalus had been prepared to sacrifice Hercules' life when he'd tried to kill the Sovereign and end his tyranny. He knew in many ways that action would have destroyed Iolaus. But he would have done it. Now Hercules coldly faced the idea of killing Iolaus for the greater good...and wasn't sure he could do it. Yet he couldn't allow the Hinds Blood Dagger in the hands of any of the gods. He just didn't trust them with it.

For a split second, Hercules wanted to grab Iolaus and start running...to run as far and as fast as possible. The idea stunned him.

How many lives are you willing to sacrifice to save Iolaus?

Hercules squeezed his eyes shut feeling the answer sear through his soul.

Why me to begin with? Is there something wrong with me?

Hercules shook himself into alertness as he seemed to hear Iolaus' anguished voice even though he knew the hunter was sleeping.

In the darkness with only the wind and waves as mournful witnesses, Hercules made his final plans and vowed Iolaus would see none of his concerns or doubts. The path his best friend was destined to walk would be hard enough on him. Hercules promised himself he wouldn't make it any harder.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Io stared up at the dark sky feeling comforted by Iolaus' steady even breathing next to him. He pondered what Iolaus had asked of him. His twin had made it clear he didn't consider Io to be obligated in any way. Io knew he could say "no" and walk away in the morning free to return to Nautica. He knew neither Iolaus nor Hercules would fault him for it. But he would fault himself. This was his world now.

Hercules said you were a hero just waiting to happen.

Io wondered if he could make it happen.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Ares stared into the darkness. He was only partially amused to find his right hand clenching and unclenching as though forming an energy ball...an energy ball that he ached to throw at someone...anyone...anything. He didn't like being mortal. Even worse, he didn't like being forced to work with his despised half-brother and his mortal entourage.

Ares winced as he moved his left leg hissing despite himself at the ache. To be honest, he didn't realize who he wanted revenge on the most...Thanok, Hera, or Hercules. Thanok and Hera for obvious reasons. Hercules for seeing him so...defenseless.

Ares growled under his breath as he acknowledged the word...defenseless. He was the God of War, for Olympus' sake.

Ex-God of War. How much of a warrior are you without your divine powers?

Ares took a deep breath to calm himself. He coldly grimaced at the small voice in his head.

How much indeed?

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The sky had barely lightened to a deep blue when Hercules woke Io who sleepily yawned and opened his eyes.

"It'll be dawn soon," Hercules began. "You need to..."

"I'll start on getting some food ready. Can't start the day without it," Io smiled. "Waffles?"

Hercules grinned despite himself. "That would be great, Io," he admitted. He glanced at the sleeping Iolaus. "Let him sleep a while longer."

Io watched as Hercules passed a silent Ares on his way to the water.

Ares slowly turned to look back at the campsite then he walked away in the opposite direction.

Io sighed as he began building the fire. Once the wood was burning, he leaned over and touched Iolaus' shoulder. He yelped as the other man came awake knife in hand. He stared at his twin in shocked silence.

Iolaus' blue eyes flickered from side to side before he relaxed. "Sorry," he mumbled. "Hercules should have warned you about this."

"He said I should let you sleep." Io relaxed. "But...well, you said I should give you my answer this morning and I didn't think you'd want Her..."

"Yeah," Iolaus nodded as he stretched. "I hate keeping secrets but..." he shrugged.

"I'll do it, Iolaus," Io gently said. "I promise."

Iolaus stared at his twin for a moment. "Despite everything that may happen?" he pressed.

"No. Because of it," Io resolutely answered.

After a few seconds' silence, Iolaus squeezed his twin's arm. "Thanks," he quietly said with a slight smile. "It makes this easier."

Io silently nodded and turned back to the fire. They sat in comfortable silence until Hercules and Ares returned. Hercules saw Iolaus' interest in what Io was doing. "Pay attention, Iolaus," he grinned. "I've gotten to like waffles in the morning."

"Like I'd go to this much trouble," Iolaus snorted as he stood. "We're not that much alike, you know." He heard Io's giggle as he walked away.

Ares glanced at the slowly brightening day. "Won't be long." He coldly smiled at Hercules. "I wonder what Xena has planned?"

Despite himself, Hercules smiled. "I'm sure it's memorable."

"I wish I'd met the Xena of this world." Io carefully handed several waffles and some fruit from Iolaus' pack to both men. He saw Ares' doubtful look. "Or is she like Discord with a real bad attitude?"

Ares' dark eyes glinted with amusement. "Be careful, little man," he smoothly advised. "You might get what you wish for." To his surprise, the former jester merely smiled and nodded.

Hercules smiled not only in appreciation of the waffles he munched. "I still have fond memories of your cooking, Io," he grinned. From the corner of his eyes, he saw Iolaus returning. "Too bad you can't teach Iolaus how to cook."

Iolaus gave him a scornful look. "I know how to cook," he argued. He looked at the waffles Io handed him and gingerly took a bite. "These are good!" he exclaimed.

Hercules studied the sky for a few minutes. "I'll call Hermes," he decided as Io began smothering the campfire. "He'll make sure you get home, Io."

Ares saw the two blondes exchange a quick glance and refrained from smiling. 'I think there's going to be a crimp in your plans, dear brother. He leaned against a nearby rock and folded his arms across his chest.

"Uh, Herc, I thought it would be a g'ood idea if Io came with us," Iolaus spoke up.

"What?!" Hercules looked at his partner in surprise.

"It was my idea," Io quickly interrupted. "I thought I could help."

"You would be a help," Hercules assured him. "Especially in finding Callisto." He glanced at Iolaus. "Bur are you sure you want to go back?"

Io silently nodded.

"Why not?" Ares laughed. "After all, we wouldn't want Thanok to make a mistake and grab the wrong one, would we?"

"That's enough, Ares!" Hercules ordered taking a step towards his half-brother. He stopped only when Iolaus put a restraining hand on his wrist. He exchanged a look with the hunter and relaxed. "Hermes!" he shouted.

"About time." The voice came to them even before the Herald appeared. "Everyone is ready." He smiled. "Xena said not to worry. You know, she's really a most..."

"Hermes," Hercules interrupted. "Not now."

"Of course," Hermes agreed. He glanced at his staff. The snakes seemed to be hissing louder. He nodded to himself the playfulness gone from his features.

Silently the others stood in front of him. Hercules exchanged a warning look with Ares over the top of Io's blonde head.

"Now," Hermes breathed. A bolt of golden energy erupted from the staff causing the snakes to almost scream. "When you return, call for me!" he yelled over the howl of the wind.

Hercules nodded. He grabbed a fistful of Io's shirt and guided him towards the portal. Iolaus and Ares silently followed.

Hermes watched as they disappeared inside the portal which slowly shrank until it also disappeared. The Herald grunted in displeasure. "Hercules didn't have to take both of them. He could have left one with me."

Far away, the Warrior Princess led the first assault against Thanok's troops.

[[I know who you are. I know what they call you. But I'm just like you. I'm on the hunt. Lynyrd Skynyrd]]