Chapter 6
Stifling a yawn I silently groan at the sight of morning mist still hanging in the dense forest. How can it still be morning? It feels like we been on the road forever. Come to think of it we have, after all it was still dark when Xena demanded we break camp. At the time I was grateful for any excuse to get up. Since Gabrielle's death I've come to fear the night and all the painful memories that come with it. During the day the emptiness is overwhelming, but at night it's unbearable. Maybe I should have followed Gabrielle into the pit at least it would have been a quick death. 'Don't be stupid.' scowls a voice from the back of my mind. 'Xena needs you.' Yeah right, everyone needs a bumbling idiot tagging along while they mourn the loss of a best friend. 'Xena and I think of you as family.' There it is again, maybe Gabby really did say it. What if she did? That doesn't mean Xena feels the same way, does it?
Shrugging off the thought I turn my attention to the woods surrounding us. There is something familiar about them, thought I'm not exactly sure where we are or where we're heading. More then once I've thought of asking Xena but I doubt she'd answer. Her less than gently wake up call is the only time she's spoken all morning. If it weren't for the steady thumping of Argo's hoofs, I'd swear I was alone. Course it doesn't help that we haven't seen anyone else in days. With Xena using abandoned trails and avoiding towns I'm beginning to wonder if there are any other people in the world. At times the silence is unnerving, though you'd think I'd be use to it by now. Since leaving Poteidaia silence has become a way of life for us. Conversations consist of little more than single word answers or a nod of the head. In the last five days I doubt we've spoken a dozen words to each other. Maybe it's just as well truth is I wouldn't know what to say if Xena did want to talk. I haven't figured out how to handle my own grief, what could I possibly say to help her?
Bouncing hard in the saddle as my horse stumbles over a partially hidden root, I bite back a cry of pain. The sudden jolt awakens a growing list of aches and pains, causing my body to scream for a rest. Stealing a quick glance at Xena I know I don't dare ask for one. Sighing to myself I try to remember the last time I've had a good nights sleep and a hot meal. Nothing comes to mind. For nearly, a week now we've been traveling at an almost nonstop pace. More than once I've found myself nodding off in the saddle. Yet, Xena shows no signs of slowing. If it weren't for Argo and me I don't think she would stop at all. Though I hate to admit it, I think the stops are more for Argo's benefit than mine.
The neck breaking pace of the last few days is killing me, not that the nights are any better. It's usually well after dark before we stop to make camp. By then I lack the energy to hunt and Xena refuses too. Most nights it's all I can do to get her to eat small portions of the bread and cheese from our packs. Exhausted from the day's ride we make an attempt at sleep. At least, I do, Xena fights it till the bitter end. Not that I blame her. More than once terror filled screams have awakened me from my own nightmares. Each time I find Xena thrashing on her bedroll suffering in her own private Tartarus.
Rubbing my shoulder I painfully remember the night the dreams began. The scream was still echoing in the forest as I stumbled to her side. Not thinking I had grabbed her by the shoulders trying to wake her a mistake, which nearly got my arm ripped from the socket. Even now I can hear her angry curses as she yelled at me for being such an idiot, that I should have known better than to grab a sleeping warrior. She was right I should have known better. It was just she seemed to be in such agony, I had to do something, even if it was foolish. It's funny, but I think as angry as she was with me, she was more angry with herself for hurting me.
I thought for sure she would send me away after that night. But the next morning she had saddled both horses and was patiently waiting for me. Still I know it's only a matter of time till my presences is no longer welcome and she orders me away. Though even then I'm not sure I could leave. I can't leave her alone with her grief. She needs someone, even if it's only me. At least, that's what I keep telling myself, but maybe the real truth is I'm scared of being alone with my own grief. Sighing heavily I have to wonder how much longer either of us can go on like this.
"Joxer."
I nearly jump from the saddle at the sound of her voice. "Huh?"
"Don't move." she orders, clasping both hands above her head.
"What? Why?"
In response to my question half a dozen women descend from the trees, surrounding us with drawn crossbows.
Xena remains perfectly still as one of them approaches.
As the woman draws closer I notice all the crossbows are aimed at Xena. I find no comfort in this fact. Normally, I trust Xena's wisdom but after her last visit I have to question her logic in returning here. Especially with the news she carries.
Raising the mask from her face the Amazon smiles broadly. "Greetings, Xena."
Slowly slipping from the saddle Xena approaches the younger woman. "Hello, Lysandra."
Still smiling the Amazon offers her hand to the warrior. "What brings you to our lands, Warrior Princess?"
"Unfinished business." answers Xena.
"Did you come to break Queen Ephiny's other arm?" quips one of the archers.
Xena meets the woman's accusing glare but says nothing.
"Silence." orders Lysandra with a hard look. The expression softens as she turns back to Xena. "Queen Ephiny will be pleased by your return." Glancing at me the smile slips away as she looks back to Xena. "Where is Queen Gabrielle?"
"That's why I'm here." answers Xena solemnly.
Seeing the warrior is not going to offer any further answers the Amazon signals the others. "Then we will escort you the rest of the way."
Xena nods in agreement, motioning for me to follow.
1.
With the scouts having announced our arrival a crowd is gathered in the center of the village to greet us. Even from a distance there is no mistaking the young Amazon Queen standing before her people. As we draw closer I can see Ephiny is smiling, though there is a sense of apprehension in the gesture. No doubt the scouts have warned her of Gabrielle's absence. As we close the last few feet Ephiny moves to meet us. Her guards seem less than pleased by this action.
"Welcome, Xena." she says offering the warrior an open hand, coupled with a smile. Though the young queen's greeting seems friendly enough I notice the smile does not reach her eyes.
Eying the offered hand Xena hesitates a moment. There is no denying the regret on her face. "Hello Ephiny." She finally replies grasping the younger woman's forearm, in a warrior's greeting.
Releasing the warrior, Ephiny offers me the same welcome. "It's good to see you again, Joxer." I'm shocked by the warmth in the blue eyes staring back at me.
Accepting the offered hand I smile weakly. "Thanks."
"What brings you here?" she asks turning to Xena. "We didn't expect to see you till the Samhain Festival."
Stiffening at the question Xena's jaw sets firmly. I know this is the question she has been dreading. "I bring news of your queen." There is a stone cold firmness to the large woman's face, which I find disturbing. Having seen the pain in her eyes over the last few days I know she is dying inside. Yet to the outside world she appears an indifferent observer.
"What news?" asks the young Amazon clearly dreading the answer.
"Your Queen is dead." with some effort Xena forces herself to continue. "Gabrielle is dead." A slight tremble in her voice as she speaks the Bard's name betrays her pain.
She's finally said it. It's the first time I've heard her utter those horrible words. Somehow I doubt it will be the last.
"no..." gasps Ephiny. I've never seen an Amazon pale before I hope never to have reason to see it again.
A murmur of whispers race among the gathered Amazons as news of their Queen's death spreads.
"How...?" asks the younger woman.
Swallowing hard Xena manages to speak. "She died bravely in battle."
"Against who?" demands Ephiny.
I expected the anger flashing in her eyes, but the accusing tone of question frightens me.
Xena seems lost for an answer, her mouth opens but nothing comes out.
"It was Hope." I blurt out. Feeling all eyes turn to me I rush on. "She and Ares were trying to freed Dahok."
Ephiny stares at me for a moment before turning to Xena.
The warrior nods slightly confirming my story. Then I notice she is holding something, reaching out she offers the small bundle to the Amazon. "Gabrielle wanted you to have this."
With a trembling hand Ephiny accepts the bundle, slowly she unfolds the small cloth. As the object is unveiled her eyes close tightly, forcing back tears. "Her Right of Cast." I hear her whisper.
Taking a deep breath she holds the necklace up for all to see. "Queen Gabrielle's Right of Cast has been passed on." Saluting as one the tribe silently acknowledges her.
Unable to hold back her sorrow any longer the Amazon reaches out to Xena. The warrior makes no effort to resist as the younger woman embraces her tightly. From my place beside Xena I can hear Ephiny's whispered words of sympathy. As the words break through Xena's walled emotions she returns the embrace, silently stroking the curly head resting on her shoulder. Feeling like an intruder I turn my attention to the gathered Amazons. Many stand with their heads bowed, some are obviously crying. I wonder if Gabrielle has any idea of the pain her death has caused?
Wiping away tears Ephiny pulls away from the warrior. "We need to make arrangements for a funeral to honor her. You'll stay won't you?"
Xena hesitates her eyes slowly searching the gathered Amazons. Finally she lowers her head in agreement. There's no mistaking Ephiny's relief at the decision. "Epinon."
A young woman I recognize from my last visit rushes forward. Stopping before Ephiny she bows quickly. "Yes, my Queen?"
"Prepare a hut for Xena and see to it her horse is cared for." Turning to me. "Will you be staying, Joxer?"
"Yes, he will."
Ephiny and I cast questioning glances in Xena's direction. But she says nothing more.
"Alright," agrees Ephiny turning back to waiting woman. "do the same for Joxer."
Another quick bow and the woman disappears into the crowd.
I'm not sure what I'm more surprised about Xena insisting I stay or the Amazons allow me too.
Taking Xena by the arm Ephiny begins to lead her away. "Come, we'll go to my hut and talk."
'Talk, yes. Maybe Ephiny can finally get her to talk.' They've gone only a few steps when a voice calls out from the crowd, freezing Ephiny in midstep, and shattering my hopes of Xena finding comfort from her grief.
"She has broken her promise!"
Defiantly Ephiny turns to face the accusation. "She is a friend among the Amazons."
"She attacked our village and our Queen!" cries another faceless voice.
"Our Queen forgave her, the matter is settled!" calls a supporter of the warrior.
"Xena is one of us, she should be welcomed here!" yells someone near the back.
For several moments heated words fly through the crowd.
Finally a battle scarred woman steps forth, she appears to be many seasons older than Ephiny. The others fall into silence at her presence. "Xena knew what would happen if she returned here with word of Queen Gabrielle's death. She made a warrior's promise to the Nation. Therefore, she should be punished as a warrior."
'Punished?' My stomach begins to knot as others in the crowd nod in agreement. "You can't punish her!" I hadn't meant to scream but things are getting out of hand. They have to understand it wasn't her fault. "Gabrielle died protecting Xena, she won't want you hurting her friend."
"He is right." agrees a voice from the crowd. "Our Queen called this woman sister, how can we cause her harm?"
"Are we going to allow outsiders to violate our laws and go unpunished?" demands another.
Other voices cry out some in support of Xena some against her. Just when I'm certain a riot is going to erupt Ephiny takes control.
"Enough!" all protest die away at her command. "It's true a promise was made..." slowly turning to Xena. "and broken." Not waiting for a reply she turns to me. "She knew what would happen if she returned." Meeting Xena's gaze. "Didn't you?"
"Yes."
Ephiny's voice takes on a commanding tone as she holds Xena gaze. "When you attacked our Queen in anger it was she who forgave you and begged that you not be deal with in accordance with Amazon law." Stepping back her voice raises to address the crowd. "In exchange for a pardon from your crimes you agreed to never again take up arms against the Amazon Nation or Queen Gabrielle. You swore to protect Queen Gabrielle at all cost." Turning once more to Xena. "Did you not give your word you would fight to the death before allowing her to be harmed?"
"I did." her voice seems so distant.
Shocked by the reply I grab Xena's arm forcing her to look at me. "Did Gabrielle know you made that promise?" Seeing the anger in her eyes, I quickly release her and step back.
"No." she finally answers.
Ephiny seems as surprised by the answer as I am. Taking a deep breath she addresses the crowd once more. "Xena has broken her word to the Amazon Nation." swallowing hard she forces herself to continue. "What is to be her punishment?"
'No! This can't be happening." I look to Xena hoping she will give me some sign as to what to do. But, she simply ignores me.
Uncertain glances pass through the crowd as if no one wants to be the first to speak. Perhaps if no one offers a suggestion they will let her go. As the seconds slip away I start to believe it might happen. Once more the older warrior steps forward, shattering my hopes for a peaceful retreat.
"The Circle." she says simply.
A hushed silence hangs in the air. From the corner of my eye I watch Xena for some reaction, there is none.
Ephiny slowly searches the crowd with her eyes. "Are there any who disagree with the charges or the punishment?" I think she is hoping they will change their minds. Seeing no truce will be offered she sighs in disgust. "So be it." As she turns to face Xena there is a weariness in her features which wasn't there moments before. "Amazon law requires you be punished. For crimes against the Amazon Nation and for actions, which lead to the death of Queen Gabrielle you will be sentenced to the Circle. Do you understand what will happen?"
"Yes." answers Xena without looking at her.
"Do you have anything to said for yourself?"
"No."
Anger flashes across the Amazon's face. She seems ready to challenge Xena, but instead turns away fighting to remain in control. I'm beginning to think being a ruler is a job I could live without.
Unable to face the waiting warrior, Ephiny motions toward the crowd. At her command several armed guards approach Xena and begin removing her weapons. She makes no effort to resist. Ephiny moves in close, forcing the larger woman to met her gaze. "You should not have come back." It is more of a plea than a threat.
Even from where I stand I can see the regret in the Amazon's eyes.
"I'm sorry." she whispers.
"It's not your fault." answers Xena with a sad smile. "It's mine."
"Wait!" I cry taking a step forward. "You can't." From out of nowhere armed warriors surround me.
"Joxer, no!" I hear Xena order.
Frantic for a way out I look pass the sentries to find sky blue eyes staring back at me.
"Do not interfere." she warns, then in a softer tone. "It will be alright."
The ache in my heart tells me it won't be, but unable to stop this madness I surrender to her wishes.
Ephiny steps back with a nod to the guards. At her command they escort Xena from the square.
Watching the warrior disappear into the village I fight the urge to run after her. She said it would be alright, I have to believe it will be. But, that doesn't mean I can't help things along. Closing the distance between Ephiny and myself I know what I have to do. Surely she knows the pain Xena is suffering. Together we can stop this, all I have to do is explain to her what happened. She'll set Xena free, I know she will.
Stifling a yawn I silently groan at the sight of morning mist still hanging in the dense forest. How can it still be morning? It feels like we been on the road forever. Come to think of it we have, after all it was still dark when Xena demanded we break camp. At the time I was grateful for any excuse to get up. Since Gabrielle's death I've come to fear the night and all the painful memories that come with it. During the day the emptiness is overwhelming, but at night it's unbearable. Maybe I should have followed Gabrielle into the pit at least it would have been a quick death. 'Don't be stupid.' scowls a voice from the back of my mind. 'Xena needs you.' Yeah right, everyone needs a bumbling idiot tagging along while they mourn the loss of a best friend. 'Xena and I think of you as family.' There it is again, maybe Gabby really did say it. What if she did? That doesn't mean Xena feels the same way, does it?
Shrugging off the thought I turn my attention to the woods surrounding us. There is something familiar about them, thought I'm not exactly sure where we are or where we're heading. More then once I've thought of asking Xena but I doubt she'd answer. Her less than gently wake up call is the only time she's spoken all morning. If it weren't for the steady thumping of Argo's hoofs, I'd swear I was alone. Course it doesn't help that we haven't seen anyone else in days. With Xena using abandoned trails and avoiding towns I'm beginning to wonder if there are any other people in the world. At times the silence is unnerving, though you'd think I'd be use to it by now. Since leaving Poteidaia silence has become a way of life for us. Conversations consist of little more than single word answers or a nod of the head. In the last five days I doubt we've spoken a dozen words to each other. Maybe it's just as well truth is I wouldn't know what to say if Xena did want to talk. I haven't figured out how to handle my own grief, what could I possibly say to help her?
Bouncing hard in the saddle as my horse stumbles over a partially hidden root, I bite back a cry of pain. The sudden jolt awakens a growing list of aches and pains, causing my body to scream for a rest. Stealing a quick glance at Xena I know I don't dare ask for one. Sighing to myself I try to remember the last time I've had a good nights sleep and a hot meal. Nothing comes to mind. For nearly, a week now we've been traveling at an almost nonstop pace. More than once I've found myself nodding off in the saddle. Yet, Xena shows no signs of slowing. If it weren't for Argo and me I don't think she would stop at all. Though I hate to admit it, I think the stops are more for Argo's benefit than mine.
The neck breaking pace of the last few days is killing me, not that the nights are any better. It's usually well after dark before we stop to make camp. By then I lack the energy to hunt and Xena refuses too. Most nights it's all I can do to get her to eat small portions of the bread and cheese from our packs. Exhausted from the day's ride we make an attempt at sleep. At least, I do, Xena fights it till the bitter end. Not that I blame her. More than once terror filled screams have awakened me from my own nightmares. Each time I find Xena thrashing on her bedroll suffering in her own private Tartarus.
Rubbing my shoulder I painfully remember the night the dreams began. The scream was still echoing in the forest as I stumbled to her side. Not thinking I had grabbed her by the shoulders trying to wake her a mistake, which nearly got my arm ripped from the socket. Even now I can hear her angry curses as she yelled at me for being such an idiot, that I should have known better than to grab a sleeping warrior. She was right I should have known better. It was just she seemed to be in such agony, I had to do something, even if it was foolish. It's funny, but I think as angry as she was with me, she was more angry with herself for hurting me.
I thought for sure she would send me away after that night. But the next morning she had saddled both horses and was patiently waiting for me. Still I know it's only a matter of time till my presences is no longer welcome and she orders me away. Though even then I'm not sure I could leave. I can't leave her alone with her grief. She needs someone, even if it's only me. At least, that's what I keep telling myself, but maybe the real truth is I'm scared of being alone with my own grief. Sighing heavily I have to wonder how much longer either of us can go on like this.
"Joxer."
I nearly jump from the saddle at the sound of her voice. "Huh?"
"Don't move." she orders, clasping both hands above her head.
"What? Why?"
In response to my question half a dozen women descend from the trees, surrounding us with drawn crossbows.
Xena remains perfectly still as one of them approaches.
As the woman draws closer I notice all the crossbows are aimed at Xena. I find no comfort in this fact. Normally, I trust Xena's wisdom but after her last visit I have to question her logic in returning here. Especially with the news she carries.
Raising the mask from her face the Amazon smiles broadly. "Greetings, Xena."
Slowly slipping from the saddle Xena approaches the younger woman. "Hello, Lysandra."
Still smiling the Amazon offers her hand to the warrior. "What brings you to our lands, Warrior Princess?"
"Unfinished business." answers Xena.
"Did you come to break Queen Ephiny's other arm?" quips one of the archers.
Xena meets the woman's accusing glare but says nothing.
"Silence." orders Lysandra with a hard look. The expression softens as she turns back to Xena. "Queen Ephiny will be pleased by your return." Glancing at me the smile slips away as she looks back to Xena. "Where is Queen Gabrielle?"
"That's why I'm here." answers Xena solemnly.
Seeing the warrior is not going to offer any further answers the Amazon signals the others. "Then we will escort you the rest of the way."
Xena nods in agreement, motioning for me to follow.
1.
With the scouts having announced our arrival a crowd is gathered in the center of the village to greet us. Even from a distance there is no mistaking the young Amazon Queen standing before her people. As we draw closer I can see Ephiny is smiling, though there is a sense of apprehension in the gesture. No doubt the scouts have warned her of Gabrielle's absence. As we close the last few feet Ephiny moves to meet us. Her guards seem less than pleased by this action.
"Welcome, Xena." she says offering the warrior an open hand, coupled with a smile. Though the young queen's greeting seems friendly enough I notice the smile does not reach her eyes.
Eying the offered hand Xena hesitates a moment. There is no denying the regret on her face. "Hello Ephiny." She finally replies grasping the younger woman's forearm, in a warrior's greeting.
Releasing the warrior, Ephiny offers me the same welcome. "It's good to see you again, Joxer." I'm shocked by the warmth in the blue eyes staring back at me.
Accepting the offered hand I smile weakly. "Thanks."
"What brings you here?" she asks turning to Xena. "We didn't expect to see you till the Samhain Festival."
Stiffening at the question Xena's jaw sets firmly. I know this is the question she has been dreading. "I bring news of your queen." There is a stone cold firmness to the large woman's face, which I find disturbing. Having seen the pain in her eyes over the last few days I know she is dying inside. Yet to the outside world she appears an indifferent observer.
"What news?" asks the young Amazon clearly dreading the answer.
"Your Queen is dead." with some effort Xena forces herself to continue. "Gabrielle is dead." A slight tremble in her voice as she speaks the Bard's name betrays her pain.
She's finally said it. It's the first time I've heard her utter those horrible words. Somehow I doubt it will be the last.
"no..." gasps Ephiny. I've never seen an Amazon pale before I hope never to have reason to see it again.
A murmur of whispers race among the gathered Amazons as news of their Queen's death spreads.
"How...?" asks the younger woman.
Swallowing hard Xena manages to speak. "She died bravely in battle."
"Against who?" demands Ephiny.
I expected the anger flashing in her eyes, but the accusing tone of question frightens me.
Xena seems lost for an answer, her mouth opens but nothing comes out.
"It was Hope." I blurt out. Feeling all eyes turn to me I rush on. "She and Ares were trying to freed Dahok."
Ephiny stares at me for a moment before turning to Xena.
The warrior nods slightly confirming my story. Then I notice she is holding something, reaching out she offers the small bundle to the Amazon. "Gabrielle wanted you to have this."
With a trembling hand Ephiny accepts the bundle, slowly she unfolds the small cloth. As the object is unveiled her eyes close tightly, forcing back tears. "Her Right of Cast." I hear her whisper.
Taking a deep breath she holds the necklace up for all to see. "Queen Gabrielle's Right of Cast has been passed on." Saluting as one the tribe silently acknowledges her.
Unable to hold back her sorrow any longer the Amazon reaches out to Xena. The warrior makes no effort to resist as the younger woman embraces her tightly. From my place beside Xena I can hear Ephiny's whispered words of sympathy. As the words break through Xena's walled emotions she returns the embrace, silently stroking the curly head resting on her shoulder. Feeling like an intruder I turn my attention to the gathered Amazons. Many stand with their heads bowed, some are obviously crying. I wonder if Gabrielle has any idea of the pain her death has caused?
Wiping away tears Ephiny pulls away from the warrior. "We need to make arrangements for a funeral to honor her. You'll stay won't you?"
Xena hesitates her eyes slowly searching the gathered Amazons. Finally she lowers her head in agreement. There's no mistaking Ephiny's relief at the decision. "Epinon."
A young woman I recognize from my last visit rushes forward. Stopping before Ephiny she bows quickly. "Yes, my Queen?"
"Prepare a hut for Xena and see to it her horse is cared for." Turning to me. "Will you be staying, Joxer?"
"Yes, he will."
Ephiny and I cast questioning glances in Xena's direction. But she says nothing more.
"Alright," agrees Ephiny turning back to waiting woman. "do the same for Joxer."
Another quick bow and the woman disappears into the crowd.
I'm not sure what I'm more surprised about Xena insisting I stay or the Amazons allow me too.
Taking Xena by the arm Ephiny begins to lead her away. "Come, we'll go to my hut and talk."
'Talk, yes. Maybe Ephiny can finally get her to talk.' They've gone only a few steps when a voice calls out from the crowd, freezing Ephiny in midstep, and shattering my hopes of Xena finding comfort from her grief.
"She has broken her promise!"
Defiantly Ephiny turns to face the accusation. "She is a friend among the Amazons."
"She attacked our village and our Queen!" cries another faceless voice.
"Our Queen forgave her, the matter is settled!" calls a supporter of the warrior.
"Xena is one of us, she should be welcomed here!" yells someone near the back.
For several moments heated words fly through the crowd.
Finally a battle scarred woman steps forth, she appears to be many seasons older than Ephiny. The others fall into silence at her presence. "Xena knew what would happen if she returned here with word of Queen Gabrielle's death. She made a warrior's promise to the Nation. Therefore, she should be punished as a warrior."
'Punished?' My stomach begins to knot as others in the crowd nod in agreement. "You can't punish her!" I hadn't meant to scream but things are getting out of hand. They have to understand it wasn't her fault. "Gabrielle died protecting Xena, she won't want you hurting her friend."
"He is right." agrees a voice from the crowd. "Our Queen called this woman sister, how can we cause her harm?"
"Are we going to allow outsiders to violate our laws and go unpunished?" demands another.
Other voices cry out some in support of Xena some against her. Just when I'm certain a riot is going to erupt Ephiny takes control.
"Enough!" all protest die away at her command. "It's true a promise was made..." slowly turning to Xena. "and broken." Not waiting for a reply she turns to me. "She knew what would happen if she returned." Meeting Xena's gaze. "Didn't you?"
"Yes."
Ephiny's voice takes on a commanding tone as she holds Xena gaze. "When you attacked our Queen in anger it was she who forgave you and begged that you not be deal with in accordance with Amazon law." Stepping back her voice raises to address the crowd. "In exchange for a pardon from your crimes you agreed to never again take up arms against the Amazon Nation or Queen Gabrielle. You swore to protect Queen Gabrielle at all cost." Turning once more to Xena. "Did you not give your word you would fight to the death before allowing her to be harmed?"
"I did." her voice seems so distant.
Shocked by the reply I grab Xena's arm forcing her to look at me. "Did Gabrielle know you made that promise?" Seeing the anger in her eyes, I quickly release her and step back.
"No." she finally answers.
Ephiny seems as surprised by the answer as I am. Taking a deep breath she addresses the crowd once more. "Xena has broken her word to the Amazon Nation." swallowing hard she forces herself to continue. "What is to be her punishment?"
'No! This can't be happening." I look to Xena hoping she will give me some sign as to what to do. But, she simply ignores me.
Uncertain glances pass through the crowd as if no one wants to be the first to speak. Perhaps if no one offers a suggestion they will let her go. As the seconds slip away I start to believe it might happen. Once more the older warrior steps forward, shattering my hopes for a peaceful retreat.
"The Circle." she says simply.
A hushed silence hangs in the air. From the corner of my eye I watch Xena for some reaction, there is none.
Ephiny slowly searches the crowd with her eyes. "Are there any who disagree with the charges or the punishment?" I think she is hoping they will change their minds. Seeing no truce will be offered she sighs in disgust. "So be it." As she turns to face Xena there is a weariness in her features which wasn't there moments before. "Amazon law requires you be punished. For crimes against the Amazon Nation and for actions, which lead to the death of Queen Gabrielle you will be sentenced to the Circle. Do you understand what will happen?"
"Yes." answers Xena without looking at her.
"Do you have anything to said for yourself?"
"No."
Anger flashes across the Amazon's face. She seems ready to challenge Xena, but instead turns away fighting to remain in control. I'm beginning to think being a ruler is a job I could live without.
Unable to face the waiting warrior, Ephiny motions toward the crowd. At her command several armed guards approach Xena and begin removing her weapons. She makes no effort to resist. Ephiny moves in close, forcing the larger woman to met her gaze. "You should not have come back." It is more of a plea than a threat.
Even from where I stand I can see the regret in the Amazon's eyes.
"I'm sorry." she whispers.
"It's not your fault." answers Xena with a sad smile. "It's mine."
"Wait!" I cry taking a step forward. "You can't." From out of nowhere armed warriors surround me.
"Joxer, no!" I hear Xena order.
Frantic for a way out I look pass the sentries to find sky blue eyes staring back at me.
"Do not interfere." she warns, then in a softer tone. "It will be alright."
The ache in my heart tells me it won't be, but unable to stop this madness I surrender to her wishes.
Ephiny steps back with a nod to the guards. At her command they escort Xena from the square.
Watching the warrior disappear into the village I fight the urge to run after her. She said it would be alright, I have to believe it will be. But, that doesn't mean I can't help things along. Closing the distance between Ephiny and myself I know what I have to do. Surely she knows the pain Xena is suffering. Together we can stop this, all I have to do is explain to her what happened. She'll set Xena free, I know she will.