(NOTES BEFORE STORY: The following story was written as a request to do a Xena fanfic that had a futuristic/ cyberpunk theme. I thought it sounded like a fun idea and figured it would give me the opportunity to do something farely different. Though it is set in the future, this is not an uber fanfic. It's still Xena and Gabrielle with the same names and same physical appearances. They're the same awesome characters we all know and love. Just in a different setting that gives our heroes a different kind of adventure to go on. The same goes for any other Xena Warrior Princess characters that appear. Also this story will contain alcohol use, possible references to drug use, strong language, graphic violence, explicit sex scenes and dark subject matter and content. So just a fair warning ahead of time. This is going to be a gritty, mature story. So be prepared going in. Anyway enough with the pre story disclaimer and on to the main event. I hope you enjoy my little futuristic Xena tale. ?)
NARRATOR
In a time of ancient Gods, Warlords and Kings, a land in turmoil cried out for a hero.
There was a low growl directed at the screen.
NARRATOR
She was Xena, a mighty princess forged in the heat of battle. The power. The passion.
An exaggerated eye roll was given as "the passion" images played.
NARRATOR
The danger. Her courage will change the world.
The scene faded to black as the unhappy viewer looked away from the hologram being played above, quickly chugged down the rest of her drink and put the glass back on the counter as she stood up. She walked towards the door, passing the bartender.
BARTENDER
Leaving already Xena? Weren't you waiting for someone?
XENA
Apparently they're not showing up.
Xena pulled a small card out of her jeans back pocket and tossed it on the counter.
XENA
Here this should cover my tab. There's a little extra there too. So if you see anything, give me a call.
BARTENDER
I always do. Got any fun plans tonight?
XENA
(Joking) That depends on her mood.
The bartender chuckled as Xena headed out the door giving a quick wave. Xena stepped outside into the night. She looked up for a moment, feeling the light drizzle of rain as it hit her forearm..
XENA
(Thinking to herself sarcastically) Ah yes more rain. One of the many enduring qualities of this crappy city.
Xena returned her head to its normal position and walked across the street to her car and got in. She quietly drove for a while through the city as she thought to herself.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) No matter how many lifetimes I see, and let's face it at this point it's been far too many to count, there's always evil lurking around out there. And it just keeps seeming to get worse and worse each time. And throughout the centuries it's only become smarter, more sophisticated, better at remaining hidden. But now here I am in the year 3257 A.D. and for some reason in this city it's different. Evil just happens out in the open and it's become so bad that it's just seen as being an unfortunate normality of life. I thought coming here was an opportunity to do some real good. But after living in this hellscape of a city for so long and seeing that no matter how many of the scumbags I put away, nothing ever seems to change. I sometimes seriously question my sanity for coming here in the first place. And even more so when I think about why I still stay.
Xena sighed as she continued her commute. Not to much later she pulled up to an apartment building. After turning off the car and grabbing her things, Xena got out of her car and shut the door. Locking the doors as she walked up the steps to the front door and went inside. She got to her apartment and opened the door. As she walked in Xena was greeted with a smiling face. The face of the one who always made all of Xena's worries and troubles melt away. And made everything she did all seem worth it. If it ment that she could make the world outside just a little bit better for her.
GABRIELLE
Hey.
Gabrielle walked over and gave Xena a little kiss. She could see the tired expression on Xena's face.
GABRIELLE
Long day?
XENA
Isn't it always?
Xena shut and locked the door. Then she smiled as she tossed her things on the small table by the door and took Gabrielle in her arms.
XENA
But as long as I have you, a day can last an eternity and I'd be okay with that.
Gabrielle smiled as she put her arms around Xena's neck.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) And I'm the one who's supposed to be the writer?
Xena smiled as she heard a knock on the door.
GABRIELLE
That must be dinner.
Gabrielle pulled away from Xena and answered the door. A few minutes later Xena and Gabrielle sat curled up together on the couch as they ate pizza and watched TV.
XENA
Hey did you know they still play the show from the 1990's about us?
GABRIELLE
Oh. I always liked that show.
Xena rolled her eyes.
XENA
You would.
Gabrielle chuckled as she took a bite of her food. After dinner and a little more cuddle time in front of the TV, the two retired to their bedroom. Where not long after the bed moved back and forth as Xena looked up at Gabrielle who slowly rocked her hips, pushing tightly against her. Gabrielle moaned as Xena reached up
and lightly squeezed and massaged her chest. She began to rock harder against Xena. Her back arched as she felt her climax rapidly approaching. Gabrielle grasped the sheets beneath them tightly as she continued to thrust her hips. Xena pushed back against her as her hands went down to Gabrielle's waist, holding her even tighter as she felt the wetness between them building. Gabrielle's movements became more sharp and rapid, feeling herself ready to go over the edge. She lowered her body and layed on top of Xena as she jerked forward repeatedly. Her core feeling like it was on fire. Gabrielle rolled her hips as she panted feeling the sensation she was working towards building faster and faster. She moved harder against Xena until she felt her nether region begin to spasm and erupt in a powerful orgasism. Gabrielle let out a blissful cry as she moved in short hard thrusts while she rode out the rest of her climax. Until she stopped moving and layed with her head resting on Xena's chest, slowly calming her breathing as the last lingering sensations between her legs faded. Xena brought her arms around Gabrielle and slowly stroked her bare back. After a couple moments of recovery, Gabrielle lifted her head and smiled at Xena as she lightly chuckled. She pushed herself up and kissed Xena. Locking the two in a passionate embrace. Their tongues danced as both sets of eyes closed, embarrassing the heated passion between them. After a moment their lips separated. Gabrielle lifted her upper body and looked down at Xena who reached up and softly caressed her cheek. Gabrielle smiled as she slightly turned her head and kissed Xena's palm. She then put another kiss lower on Xena's arm and worked her way to Xena's chest. Xena lowered her arm as she felt Gabrielle lightly take a nipple into her mouth. She gently held it between her teeth as she very lightly gave it a little tug before releasing it. Then she lowered her whole mouth and began to suck. Xena moaned as she placed her hand on Gabrielle's head. Feeling her desire increasing as she ached for release. After a couple moments Gabrielle switched her attention to the other side and suckled on that one for a little bit. Xena arched her back as she let out a low moan. Finally Gabrielle released Xena's flesh from her mouth and then began leaving a trail of light, tender kisses down Xena's neck, chest and stomach. Xena pushed herself up a little and leaned her back against the bed's headboard. As she layed at an elevated angle on the bed while Gabrielle continued her way down Xena's torso. Xena watched in anticipation as Gabrielle's mouth moved closer and closer to Xena's heated center. Finally once Gabrielle reached her destination she lightly traced the tip of her finger along Xena's womanhood..Gently stroking her finger up and down the opening. Xena shuddered at the sensation of the gentle touch. But craved so much more.
XENA
(Breathlessly) Gabrielle.
Gabrielle could hear the need in Xena's voice and smiled as she looked up at Xena's face. She chuckled a little as continued to lightly touch Xena. Feeling the wetness as she slowly pushed two fingers inside. Causing Xena to make a low moan as she felt Gabrielle slip inside her. Gabrielle slowly weaved her fingers in and out. Pushing deep into Xena's nether region. Xena layed her head back as she raised her knees and planted her feet on the bed, digging her toes into the sheets. When Xena moved her legs, Gabrielle moved closer as she continued to push into Xena. She placed her free hand on the outside of Xena's thigh. Lightly running her nails up and down Xena's skin. Xena moaned as she felt herself getting close to her climax. But was momentarily disappointed when she felt Gabrielle's fingers leave her. Though quickly forget about it when Gabrielle replaced them with her tongue. Xena put her hand on Gabrielle's head as hers leaned back. Gabrielle now had both hands around each of Xena's thighs as she layed on her stomach using her naturally skilled tongue to make Xena wonder how she ever got anything done when she knew that Gabrielle made her feel like this on a regular basis. Xena groaned as Gabrielle's mouth found its way to Xena's clit and flicked her tongue against the sweet spot. Sending a small jolt through Xena's body. Gabrielle let out a small chuckle as she did it again. Getting the same reaction from Xena, who was about to say something about the sudden teasing when all was very quickly forgiven as Gabrielle began to suck on the little bud. Xena's mouth hung open as her body involuntary jerked. She looked down seeing short tussled blonde locks that moved in time with her hips as she bucked uncontrollably. Gabrielle shifted her head slightly as she looked up at Xena still unrelenting in her welcomed assault on her targeted area. The two locked eyes. Though it was only for a moment as Xena threw her head back as she felt the rush of her impending orgasism rapidly approaching. Gabrielle continued to suck as Xena lost all semblance of reality outside of what Gabrielle was doing to her. She grabbed the sides of the bed, gripping it tight as she shouted Gabrielle's name over and over. Sprinkling in some additional colorful language every so often. This went on for a few moments until Xena's hips lifted off the bed slightly as an earth shaking orgasism ripped through her. Gabrielle quickly pushed them back down and held them in place as she refused to cease in her apparent mission to drive Xena towards insanity. Xena was no longer able to speak as the only sound that came out of her mouth was a rasped moan as Gabrielle continued fiercely sucking Xena's over stimulated bud. Causing Xena to come again before she even had the chance to recover from the climax that swept through her only moments before. Her back arched, her feet dug into the bed beneath her as she let out another strained moan. Xena's legs shook as her body tensed with each wave of of extacy that crashed into her. Gabrielle slowly let up on her focus and took her mouth off of Xena. Only gently stroking her finger up and down Xena's entrance letting Xena feel the last lingering bit of her high. Xena slowly relaxed as her body fell back on the bed and raised her head, looking at Gabrielle and smirked.
XENA
You're way too good at that.
Gabrielle crawled up, layed beside her and smiled.
GABRIELLE
Hey you're not the only one of us with skills here
Xena laughed a little as she pulled the blanket over them and wrapped her arms around Gabrielle holding her close as she layed her head on the pillow.
XENA
You can say that again.
She lightly kissed Gabrielle and smiled as Gabrielle nestled her head under Xena's chin and closed her eyes.
GABRIELLE
I love you Xena.
XENA
I love you too Gabrielle.
Xena turned off the light, slowly closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep. The night was quiet as the two slept soundly. Xena's dreams were filled with action, adventure, a certain blonde and an annoying beeping sound that started out of nowhere and refused to stop. Xena made an irritated grumble as she sleepily opened her eyes. Still hearing the noise, it took her groggy mind a moment to process that the source of the sound was coming from the nightstand beside the bed. Without looking Xena reached over feeling around in the dark for the annoyance. Finding it, she picked it up and looked at the lit up phone screen, then sighed when she saw who was calling. Along with the current time. She waved her hand turning on the small light on the stand that her phone was next to. After making sure she was completely covered Xena sat up slightly, tapped the screen and watched as a small hologram came up.
XENA
What.
The familiar face greeted her annoyance with a smirk.
ARES
(Smugly) Hey, hey that's no way to talk to your boss now is it?
Xena growled as she rubbed her eyes.
XENA
(Annoyed tone) Did you want something Ares or have you finally gotten tired of living.
ARES
Okay geeze. And I thought Gabrielle was scary if you woke her up.
XENA
(Joking) Just be greatfull that you didn't just now. She's pre-tty tired.
Xena smirked as Ares shook his head.
ARES
(Sarcasm) Thanks for sharing. Now if you're done bragging about your sex life can we get to business here?
XENA
(Joking) What's wrong you used to love the thought me naked?
ARES
(Sarcasm) I'm fairly certain that this counts as sexual harassment.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Sue me.
ARES
(Sighing) I hate my job. Why out of all the agencies do you just have to work at mine.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Because working for you is a real picnic for me.
ARES
(Sarcasm) I guess we all just have to suffer through life don't we.
Anyway I need you downtown asap.
XENA
Can't you get someone else?
ARES
Nope this has your name written all over it.
Ares' expression changed to a slightly disheartened look as he took a more serious tone.
ARES
Seriously Xena we need you down here.
Xena noticed his new somber mood and knew that she wasn't about to walk into anything good.
XENA
Alright give me a bit to get there.
ARES
Okay. I'll send you the location. See you soon.
XENA
Yup.
Xena ended the call and lightly tossed her phone on the bed as she sighed.
XENA
No rest for the wicked.
She pulled back the covers as she turned and put her feet on the floor as she moved to the edge of the bed. The sudden loss of body heat next to her caused Gabrielle to sleepily opened her eyes.
GABRIELLE
Xena?
Xena looked back at her wife and softly smiled then gave a more serious look.
XENA
I got a call to a scene. It sounds serious.
GABRIELLE
Everything okay?
XENA
Don't know. I gotta go.
Xena leaned over and lightly kissed Gabrielle.
XENA
Don't wait up. I'll be home as soon as I can.
GABRIELLE
Stay safe. I love you.
XENA
I love you too.
Xena got up and got dressed. She looked back at Gabrielle still in bed and smiled as she left the room and headed out the front door. Xena fiddled with the radio in the car, finding something that would wake her up fully as she drove towards the location given to her by Ares. Why the god of war was running a private investigation firm in a garbage city Xena would never know. But as much as she didn't want to admit it, he was actually good at his job and genuinely cared about each case.
XENA
(Talking to herself) I guess he's not all bad. Even if he is a royal pain in my ass.
Xena slowed down as she pulled up her destination. Seeing the area had already secured as a crime scene. She got out of the car and walked through the hologram police tape as she saw Ares talking to one of the police officers on the scene. She walked over to him.
XENA
Ares.
Ares looked at Xena as she came over.
ARES
Good you're here.
He sighed as he turned and began walking. Pulling the collar of his dark trench coat up to shield himself more from the rain that had been coming down on and off all night.
ARES
Come on. Over here.
Xena followed the god over to a tarp that was laying on the pavement that was clearly covering something. Given Xena's line of work she pretty much knew already what was under it. They both crouched down beside the tarp as Ares grabbed hold of a corner.
ARES
(Sighs) Ready?
Area' attitude about this whole situation made Xena want to say no. Knowing that if was enough to get this kind of reaction from the hardened god of war, she was not going to like what she saw at all. But she knew that it was in her job description, even if she absolutely hated this part. Xena took a breath and nodded slightly at Ares. As much as she tried to prepare herself, Xena's heart sank when Ares pulled back the tarp and she saw the lifeless body laying on the cold, hard ground. Xena sadly sighed as she looked down at the unknown face.
XENA
Damn they're just a kid.
.
The light rain continued to fall as Xena looked at the child that was laying in front of her. As she carefully looked at the body, Xena talked to Ares.
XENA
Do we have an ID?
ARES
Not yet.
XENA
Cause of death?
ARES
Don't know. But clearly not natural causes.
XENA
Obviously. Witness?
ARES
Xena if I knew anything I would've told you already.
Xena sighed as she looked at Ares.
XENA
Sorry. It's just I got into this line of work to try and stop this sort of thing. But..
ARES
I know Xena. I don't like seeing this either. I thought things were so much simpler all those years ago. Wars, violence, all the other things that made the good old days what they were.
XENA
The way you describe it doesn't exactly give me that nostalgic feeling you're going for.
ARES
The point is that with people now a days it's not as cut and dry. There's probably a million reasons why someone would want to kill this kid. And the odds are pretty high that none of them are good.
XENA
Yeah no shit.
Xena stood up.
XENA
Well we won't know anything until I figure out how this kid died. I'll head to the coroner's office and start there.
ARES
But you know it's gonna take time to get everything we need.
Ares could see the stone cold look in Xena's eyes.
XENA
Not if I'm there.
Xena began walking back to her car.
ARES
Just try not to scare off this one.
XENA
We'll see.
Ares sighed knowing full well that Xena was going to be in her "warrior princess" mode for this whole case. Though it ment that she was going to be extremely focused and stop at nothing to bring whoever was responsible to justice. It also ment that she was not going to be easy to deal with. Which was why when it came to cases like this Ares tended to let xena do her own thing. He learned a long time ago that doing things this way was better for everyone, especially when it came to his own safety. Besides he knew that Xena wasn't going to do anything that broke the law, technically. Ares turned and went to his car and headed back to his office. After leaving the crime scene Xena headed to the coroner's office. As she drove she called Gabrielle. As Gabrielle answered a hologram of her appeared in the passengers seat of Xena's car.
GABRIELLE
Xena, what's going on?
XENA
Looks like I won't be home for a while.
Gabrielle sat on the couch in their living room as she talked to Xena's hologram.
GABRIELLE
Why?
XENA
The victim. It's just a kid. Can't be more than 12.
Gabrielle shook her head in disgust.
GABRIELLE
God's what's wrong with people?
XENA
Who knows. Anyway I'm heading to the coroner's then I'll be home.
GABRIELLE
Okay. I'll be waiting.
XENA
See you soon.
GABRIELLE
Bye.
Xena hug up and continued to drive. Soon after she arrived at the coroner's office, where she waited for the results of the autopsy. That is until she got inpatient and after shoving the coroner out of her way, took over in the investigation of the cause of death. Leaving the aggravated coroner with the unwanted duty of being demoted to temporary becoming Xena's assistant. Once xena took over it wasn't long before the cause of death was discovered. Though the results didn't sit right with her.
CORONER
I'm ruling this death by strangulation.
Xena looked at the body then back at the coroner.
XENA
You can't be serious.
CORONER
(Annoyed Sarcasm) Ah yes the great Xena. She knows all and sees all. Tell me oh great one what is the actual cause of death.
XENA
Not sure yet but it certainly wasn't that.
CORONER
(Annoyed tone) And why do you think that?
Xena replied to the coroner's attitude with one of her own.
XENA
Well for starters there are no strangulation marks on the neck.
CORONER
So. Sometimes there aren't any.
XENA
True but there's also no signs of damage that would indicate lack of oxygen as cause of death. Honestly how did even you graduate medical school if you can't figure that out.
The coroner glared at Xena as they pointed to the door.
CORONER
Get out.
Xena took one more look at the body, then cleaned up and left. The coroner angerly watched her walk out the door.
CORONER
Bitch.
Xena smirked hearing the comment.
XENA
(Talking to herself) Once this one's gone maybe we'll finally get one who knows what they're doing.
Once she was done there Xena went to Ares' private investigation headquarters. Once inside she barged into his office. Ares looked from the screen on his desk.
ARES
(Sarcasm) You know there's this amazing thing called knocking.
Xena shut the door behind her and crossed her arms as she leaned against the door.
XENA
Where in Tartarus did you find that new guy?
ARES
I'm assuming you mean the coroner?
Ares sighed as he swiped his hand as he shut down what he was working on and the hologram in front of him disappeared. Then he learned back in his chair.
ARES
I'm gonna have to find another one again aren't I?
XENA
If you're smart.
ARES
(Sarcasm) Oh goody. Any more people you would like me to replace while I'm at it.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Yeah the guy I work for is a real piece of work.
ARES
(Sarcasm) Ooo sorry I'm afraid I can't do anything about that one.
XENA
Worth a shot.
ARES
So did you find out anything other than the apparent lack of competence of my employee.
XENA
Unfortunately not much.
Xena walked over and put her hands on the desk as she lowered her voice.
XENA
Something about this doesn't feel right Ares.
ARES
Why?
XENA
There were no signs of anything that might cause a perfect healthy kid to die.
Ares brought up the screen that he had been looking at.
ARES
The report says...
Xena reached over and shut down the screen again.
XENA
I know what the stupid report says and it's wrong. I tried to tell the idiot coroner that but, well you hired him.
Ares looked at Xena as he sighed.
ARES
Okay fine. Congratulations this case is officially yours. And lucky for you there's no shortage of scumbags in this city who wouldn't think twice about killing an innocent kid. So I guess you have your work cut out for you Xena. Better get started.
XENA
Fine. I'll start with the parents. At least I got an I.D. from that idiot.
ARES
(Smirking) See they're not completely useless after all.
XENA
Shove it Ares.
Xena stood up straight and went to the door to leave.
ARES
Xena.
Xena stopped and looked back at him.
ARES
You look like shit. Why don't you go home and get some sleep. I'll have someone else inform the kid's family. You can start your investigation tomorrow.
Xena would've argued but it had been a long day and she really only got a few hours of sleep.
XENA
Fine. I told Gabrielle I'd be home soon anyway.
So Xena left and made the drive back home. Once she parked and went inside, Xena made her way to the bedroom. She saw Gabrielle still in bed and walked over. After getting comfortable Xena got in bed and pulled up the covers as she layed down. Gabrielle opened her eyes and smiled a little.
GABRIELLE
Hey you're home.
XENA
Sorry I didn't expect to take that long, but I couldn't just leave this one.
GABRIELLE
I know. You wanna talk about it?
XENA
No. Ares put me on the case so I just wanna get some sleep before I start tomorrow.
GABRIELLE
Okay.
Xena and Gabrielle soon fell asleep. Morning came all too soon as Xena's alarm woke both her and Gabrielle. After they were both up and dressed, Xena grabbed a quick bite to eat as she got ready to head out.
GABRIELLE
Xena do you know if anyone is covering your case yet?
XENA
I don't think any of the major news outlets have picked it up yet. They think a child's murder is "too gruesome for their delicate viewers." And if they did I'm willing to bet the story got buried among all the useless crap that people would rather pay attention to and go on with their blissful ignorance.
GABRIELLE
I don't get how people can just turn a blind eye to this kind of thing.
XENA
This world's gotten colder Gabrielle. Mainly this city. If it doesn't directly affect their lives, people just don't care.
GABRIELLE
Someday you'll change that Xena.
XENA
I don't know about that, but I can try.
Gabrielle gave Xena a light kiss and smiled.
GABRIELLE
No matter where we go and what ever we do you're always continuing that fight for the greater good.
XENA
And I'll keep fighting for as long as I have to.
GABRIELLE
I know you will. And I'll be fighting right along beside you every time.
XENA
I wouldn't have it any other way.
Xena and Gabrielle headed out. They drove through the city until they reached the address of the child's parents. They got out of the car and went to the front door. After knocking a woman answered the door. Xena informed the woman of who she and Gabrielle were and asked to come inside. The woman had already been notified in the middle of the night that the deceased was her child. After letting them in the woman, Xena and Gabrielle sat in her kitchen. Xena asked all the usual questions. About family, friends, last known where abouts, any ideas of why someone would have done this. Possible suspicious activity that the woman might've noticed involving the child. Any clues of who could have committed such an awful crime. The grieving woman cried as she answered Xena's questions. Though for the most part her answers weren't very helpful in giving Xena and Gabrielle much useful information. So after Xena got what she could, she and Gabrielle left. But not before assuming the woman that they would find who killed her child and bring them to justice. After getting back in the car Xena knew where their next stop should be.
GABRIELLE
So what now?
XENA
I think I know someone who might be able to point us in the right direction. And I'm pretty sure you being there will make this a lot easier.
GABRIELLE
Who?
XENA
YOUR best friend.
Gabrielle laughed a little.
GABRIELLE
Come on Xena she's your friend too.
XENA
Yeah but she's always a pain to deal with when it comes to getting information.
GABRIELLE
And yet you keep her as your informant.
XENA
Hey being a gossip has it's uses. I'm just surprised that she actually lives here.
GABRIELLE
That's true. Though I've seen her apartment. And let's just say calling it an "apartment" is not an accurate description. Though if you ask her she'd make it sound like she's living in a cardboard box.
Xena rolled her eyes.
XENA
I'm sure.
After a bit Xena and Gabrielle pulled up to their destination, got out of the car and went inside. Hearing the door open a voice piped up and cheerfully greeted them.
?
Welcome to "Hearts Desire". Where you can find whatever your heart desires.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Real creative name and tag line. Ow.
Gabrielle nudged Xena and got a disapproving look in return.
?
Oh it's you.
(Joking) I thought I heard a storm coming.
Xena and Gabrielle turned around and Gabrielle smiled.
GABRIELLE
Aphrodite, it's good to see you.
The goddess smiled when she saw her best friend.
APHRODITE
Gabby!
She gave Gabrielle a big hug. Afterwards she looked at Xena and hugged her too.
APHRODITE
Sooo what can I do for my favorite two mortals.
XENA
Sorry Aphrodite but this isn't just a friendly visit.
Aphrodite saw the looks on her friends faces.
APHRODITE
Oh poo. Okay why don't you two take a seat, I'll get you some drinks and I'll see if I can help.
Xena and Gabrielle sat at the bar as Aphrodite got their drinks. Once she came back Xena showed her a picture of the deceased and told her what little she knew. Aphrodite was obviously saddened by the young life that was tragically cut short.
XENA
So anything you can tell us. I know that the biggest gossip in town might be able to point us in the right direction.
Aphrodite sighed.
APHRODITE
I was really hoping that it was just some ridiculous drunken rumors. If I thought for a second that there was any truth to what people were saying I would've called you right away Xena.
XENA
It's okay Aphrodite I know.
GABRIELLE
Just tell us what you've heard.
APHRODITE
Okay. But this isn't good at all.
Xena and Gabrielle sat in Aphrodite's bar as Aphrodite pulled up a barstool and sat down. Xena and Gabrielle sipped their drinks at the bar.
XENA
Okay so what can you tell us?
APHRODITE
Well according to what I've heard it seems like lately people have been disappearing from around the city.
GABRIELLE
Oh yeah I heard about that. I tried to investigate but I couldn't find anything.
APHRODITE
Some people are saying that it's tied to some like super shady organization.
XENA
Okay but what does that have to do with my victim.
Aphrodite shrugged.
APHRODITE
Maybe they killed the poor thing when they tried to fight back.
GABRIELLE
Or they saw something they shouldn't have.
Xena thought for a moment.
XENA
Or whoever's behind this got what they wanted and then killed them.
GABRIELLE
You think that the child was the target?
XENA
Can't be sure yet. I'm just trying to cover all the most possible scenarios.
GABRIELLE
If this is connected to the disappearances that still doesn't explain why this body was actually found.
XENA
Maybe whoever did this was in a hurry for whatever reason.
APHRODITE
So what now?
Xena sighed as she took a drink.
XENA
At this point all this is just speculation. We won't know anything until we do some more digging.
Xena's phone began beeping. She pulled it out of her jacket pocket and turned it on, seeing a small hologram of Ares pop up over the screen.
XENA
What's up?
ARES
Nothing good. I looks like we have another victim on our hands.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Great.
ARES
It's a real mess down here.
Ares sighed.
ARES
Whoever is behind this is a real sicko.
XENA
Shit. I'll be right there.
Xena hung up as she and Gabrielle got up.
GABRIELLE
Thanks for the info Aphrodite.
APHRODITE
Always happy to help. I hope you find whatever's doing this Xena.
XENA
Oh I will, trust me.
Xena stormed out and headed ro the car. Gabrielle quickly said goodbye to Aphrodite and followed. They drove to the scene which was an apartment building. Xena and Gabrielle went up to the apartment that Ares told them he was at. Ares was waiting outside the door and saw that two walking down the hall towards him.
ARES
(Sarcasm) I see we're being joined by the great journalist today.
GABRIELLE
Nice to see you too Ares. And at least I actually report on the important stuff and not all that garbage you see everywhere that doesn't actually do anything.
ARES
Fair point. I'm assuming that you already know everything we do then.
GABRIELLE
Yeah we actually just came from Aphrodite's.
ARES
Oh and did that sister of mine have anything useful for us?
XENA
Ideas but nothing concrete yet. Anyway what are we dealing with here?
ARES
The back room. I'll let you see for yourself.
Xena and Gabrielle made their way towards the last room at the end of a small hallway in the apartment. The couple other officers saw Xena and left the room to let her work. Everyone that worked with Xena knew that she was one of, if not the best detective on the force. She was highly respected amung her peers. Though along with her reputation for her skills as a detective, Xena did have a tendency to sometimes rub people the wrong way. Some thought that she was too pushy and a know it all. Not to mention the fact that she didn't take crap from anyone. Some people interpreted that as her being bitchy. Which at times was kind of true, but Xena had and always would be a woman that knew how to take charge and get results. Which was why she thrived as being a detective. Even if some people saw the way she talked to Ares and wondered why he would allow his subordinate to speak to him that way and not be reprimanded for insubordination. Obviously they didn't know that Ares was actually the ancient Greek God of War. Or that Xena was warrior from that time who along with Gabrielle has been in an endless cycle of reincarnation for thousands of years and now found themselves in a dystopian city. The same was true for Aphrodite. No one knew that there were living rements of a long past ancient civilization living in their city. Whether they were reincarnated ancient hero's or gods that had long stopped being thought of as being anything more than some very, very old stories. That honestly most people didn't even know about any more. Why they were all in that city together? That answer was simple. Obviously the fact that Xena and Gabrielle were soulmates meant that they were bound together by fate itself no matter what. As for Aphrodite, she couldn't bare the thought of not seeing her best friends. So she always had a way of finding the two no matter where they were and setting up shop doing whatever she thought sounded fun nearby. And Ares? He said it was always coincidence that he always seemed to show up in some way. Though it wasn't normality in Xena and Gabrielle's daily lives. But Xena and Gabrielle knew better. Deep down they knew that Ares would always have a thing for Xena. Which was the actual reason he always showed up. Though through out the years he had finally learned that he didn't stand a chance because Xena's heart would always only belong to Gabrielle. So Ares decided long ago that he would just be one of Xena and Gabrielle's most trusted allies and friends. Even if the god of war would never admit it. And that was why the four of them were in this city. A city that with every day that passed Xena found herself wanting to leave more and more. She sighed as she made her way to the last room. Gabrielle stayed right behind her. She had become one of the most sought after reporters. She always had a way of reaching her audience with her captivating stories. She did her best to get the truth out to the people. Even if it seemed like no one cared or that alot of the times her reports were buried. That didn't stop her. While Xena was still out in the world fighting in the literal sense, most of Gabrielle's battles have become a metaphorical war with finding a way to bring the truth to the public. The two were still a team to be reckoned with. And that was something that the world learned time and time again.
XENA
You ready?
Xena looked at Gabrielle as they stood outside the last door in the hallway. Gabrielle nodded. The door was already open but they couldn't see anything from the doorway. So they stepped inside.
GABRIELLE
God's what happened here?
Xena and Gabrielle looked around the room. It was a brutal and sickening scene. Ares walked up behind them.
ARES
I told you we're dealing with someone who's truly sadistic.
Xena shook her head and gave a disheartened sigh as she began looking around. Gabrielle followed. Ares stayed in the doorway, giving them space to work. There was blood splattered all over. A pool of blood in the center of the room. And then of course there was the source of the blood. And that was the most disturbing part. Because there in front of Xena and Gabrielle was the body of a young woman that had been strung up by being tied to the light fixture on the ceiling by her wrists. Her throat had been slit. Her mouth was stuffed with some sort of cloth. Clearly so she couldn't scream for help.
GABRIELLE
The fact that there's people out there who can do this sort of thing is something I'll never get used to.
XENA
You don't have to stay. I can tell you what I find.
GABRIELLE
No I'm okay. I wanna catch who's behind this just as much as you do.
XENA
Okay.
Gabrielle watched quietly as Xena examined the body. Taking notes of her findings. After Xena finished, she searched the room for any clues that could help her figure things out. Before long Xena had combed over the whole apartment. Then the two walked out into the hallway along with Ares.
ARES
So what do you think?
XENA
The killings are definitely connected.
ARES
What makes you say that?
XENA
A hunch.
ARES
You know if anyone else said that I'd think that they were crazy. But it's you. So let's hear it.
Ares put his hands in his pockets and leaned his shoulder against the wall as he listened to Xena.
XENA
The child wasn't an actual target. It was a case of being at the wrong place at the wrong time. Which is why they were simply just killed. But this, this was planned. And I have a good feeling that it's tied to the disappearances that have been happening all over the city.
ARES
Why?
XENA
Think about it. In every instance of someone going missing there's always small traces of the person's blood found in some closed off area. I honestly can't figure out why that hasn't set off more alarms with the people covering the disappearances.
GABRIELLE
Okay then why did we find this body?
XENA
The neighbors.
GABRIELLE
What?
Xena walked over to a wall and knocked on it. Gabrielle heard the sound it made. Then went and put her ear against the wall. She could easily hear the people who lived in the apartment next door.
GABRIELLE
Oh these walls are paper thin.
Gabrielle looked back at Xena.
XENA
Exactly. So even with our victim being gagged. The people next door must've heard the commotion and called it in.
GABRIELLE
Meaning that whoever killed her heard the sirens and didn't have time to clean up and despose of the body before leaving.
Xena crossed her arms and gave a quick smirk.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Crappy living conditions, our taxes at work and the apparent bane of the serial killer's existence.
With the investigation of the apartment finished Xena, Gabrielle and Ares left. Ares headed back to his office. While Xena and Gabrielle went to see what information they could find about the disappearances just to see if they could confirm Xena's suspensions of them being connected to the two murders. But little did they know that they were about to begin to uncover something that none of them were expecting.
The sun was beginning to set as a sleek black car pulled up and parked in front of the police precinct. Xena stepped out of the driver's side door and Gabrielle the passenger's. The pair went in the building hoping to find some answers that could get Xena closer to solving this case. Once inside they headed to the missing persons department. Xena went to the sargent's office and knocked on the open door. The police sargent looked up from her work and saw Xena standing in the doorway.
SARGEANT
Can I help you?
XENA
Yeah. I'm investigating a case that I think might be connected to the series of disappearances that's been happening lately.
SARGENT
Which ones? People go missing in this city every day and most are just some runaway kid, a spouse that left their partner, or just someone who simply left the city and doesn't want to be found.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Gee with that attitude I'm surprised you ever find anyone that goes missing.
The Sargent was not amused by Xena's comment.
SARGENT
Look I know who you are, Xena. You go around acting like you're the best thing to ever happen to the force. Well I've got news for you you're not. And now you come walking in to my precinct acting like you know everything and can just solve all this city's problems on your own.
XENA
At least I'm actually trying.
SARGENT
Screw you.
Gabrielle could hear the conversation going on in the sargent's office and went over to try and defuse the situation before things got out of hand.
GABRIELLE
Hey let's all just try to relax. We all want the same thing here. And that's to ensure the safety of the people of this city.
The sargent looked at Gabrielle.
SARGENT
Who the hell are you? Oh wait you're that reporter I sometimes see on the news when little miss know it all here gets coverage on a case.
Gabrielle politely held out her hand to introduce herself.
GABRIELLE
Gabrielle. Nice to...
SARGENT
Yeah don't care.
Xena scowled at the woman as Gabrielle lowered her hand.
XENA
(Angry tone) Look lady I don't give a damn if you don't like me, but you will not disrespect my wife like that.
SARGENT
(Sarcasm) Ooo I'm so scared of the big, bad Xena.
Xena was ready to reach over the desk and grab the woman when Gabrielle quickly grabbed Xena's arm.
GABRIELLE
(Quietly) She's not worth it Xena.
Xena growled and relaxed a little.
SARGENT
Now if we're done here you can leave.
XENA
Oh I'm not going anywhere until I get what I came for.
SARGENT
You want these cases so bad fine take 'em. Anything to get you out of my precinct. I'll have one of my people send over everything we have. Now get the hell out of my office.
XENA
There that wasn't so hard now was it?
The woman pointed to the door.
SARGENT
Out!
Xena and Gabrielle began to leave.
GABRIELLE
Thanks for the help.
SARGENT
(Muttering) Skank.
Xena heard the comment and before Gabrielle could stop her, Xena had stormed up to the sargent and swiftly slammed her face off her desk. Then without a word she turned around left. The two drove back to Xena's office. Once they were there Xena checked to make sure that she had everything. As she and Gabrielle begin to go over the reports, Ares called Xena into his office. He lounged in his chair as Xena came in and shut the door.
XENA
Let me guess you just got a call from a certain Sargeant.
ARES
Did you really slam her face into her desk?
XENA
That woman has a serious attitude problem.
ARES
Hmm sounds like someone else I know.
XENA
Hey I tried to play nice. But she pushed me.
Ares knew that Xena could hold her temper pretty well, that is unless it came to Gabrielle. Then all bets were off. So he didn't need to ask why Xena did what she did.
ARES
Look I know she's an ass, but you can't just go attacking people like that. You're in serious trouble for this one Xena.
Ares gave Xena a serious look. Though it only lasted a couple seconds before he started laughing.
ARES
Ah I wish could've seen the look on her face when you did that.
XENA
So what did she call for my badge or my head?
ARES
From her tone both. You know according to the law I should suspend you.
XENA
And?
ARES
Nothing. Just throwing that out there. Maybe you'll remember that the next time you wanna call me every name in the book.
XENA
Yeah I'm still gonna do that.
ARES
Of course you will. Now don't you have a case to solve? Get lost and try not to cause any more trouble today.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Fine I'll beat up the mayor tomorrow.
Ares rolled his eyes at Xena's bad joke as she left his office. She went over to her desk where Gabrielle was sitting going through some of the files they had gotten. Xena looked over her shoulder at the screen.
XENA
Find anything useful?
GABRIELLE
Not yet.
Xena moved her finger on the hologram as she quickly scrolled through the report.
XENA
How many others are there?
GABRIELLE
Not counting this one, about 26.
XENA
(Sighs) We'll be here all night going through everything. Hold on.
Xena went back to Ares office for a minute and came back.
XENA
Come on let's get out here. If I'm gonna be stuck going through reports all night, I can at least relax while doing it.
Xena and Gabrielle took everything they had on the cases and went home for a long night of trying to piece together the mess of cases that had landed in Xena's lap.
XENA
Damn this is ridiculous.
Xena stretched her neck as she and Gabrielle sat on the floor in their living room going through the various files from the missing persons cases.
XENA
What time is it?
Gabrielle checked her phone.
GABRIELLE
A little after 3.
XENA
(Sighs) We're only a little more than half way through everything.
Xena put down the file she was looking at as she layed on the floor.
XENA
What did I get myself into?
Gabrielle put down what she was looking at and crawled over and sat next to Xena. She looked down at Xena as brushed her bangs out of her face.
GABRIELLE
You care about people Xena. That's why you do this.
XENA
I just want to catch who's behind this mess. This city might be trash but there's good people out there who don't deserve to live in fear that they or the people they love are just gonna up and vanish. Or be found brutally murdered by some maniac killing people for who knows why.
GABRIELLE
I know. We'll catch whoever's doing this. I can't think of anyone better equipped to take this on the Xena, warrior princess, turned extraordinary detective.
XENA
(Joking) I think you skipped over a lot of other stuff.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) Yeah but that would be way to long of a title.
Gabrielle smiled as she leaned down and gently kissed Xena. Xena returned the kiss with a passionate one of her own.
GABRIELLE
Hmm you keep that up and we definitely won't be getting any more work done.
XENA
Maybe a little break is just what I need.
Xena kissed Gabrielle's neck.
GABRIELLE
Well whatever you think will help.
Xena chuckled as she sat up and continued kissing down towards Gabrielle's chest. Unbuttoning her shirt as she we went lower. Xena's lips brushed against Gabrielle's skin making her softly moan. Once her top was undone, Gabrielle took it off and tossed it aside as she took Xena's face in her hands and brought it back up into another smoldering kiss. While locked in the kiss, Xena reached down, unbuttoning Gabrielle's pants and slipped her hand inside. Gabrielle could feel Xena rubbing her fingers along her entrance. She pulled out of the kiss and moaned as she felt Xena push inside. As Xena began to move Gabrielle reached down and undid Xena's pants as her hand went in, rubbing agienst Xena's womanhood. After a few moments Xena took her hand away, with Gabrielle doing the same. The both of them now in a fever pitch quickly stripped and tossed their clothing aside. Then they sat facing each other, pushing their centers up against one another as they began moving their hips. Xena held Gabrielle's waist as they thrust against each other. Gabrielle leaned back slightly, putting her hands on the floor behind her giving her more leverage to push harder against Xena. The two moved as they felt the sensation in both their cores getting stronger. Xena moved faster and harder against Gabrielle as she felt herself on the verge of release. Then she quickly got to her knees as Gabrielle layed down. Keeping herself pushed up against Gabrielle, Xena put Gabrielle's leg on her shoulder as she held on and put her other hand on the floor as she moved fast and hard against the woman beneath her. Xena's breathing became more rapid as she got closer to her climax. She put her other arm around Gabrielle's leg as she sped up as if to hold on for dear life. Xena let out a blissful moan as she felt her orgasism overtake her. She pushed her neither region tightly against Gabrielle's as came hard. Xena's hips jerked with each wave that hit. Once it began to subside Xena let go as Gabrielle's leg slid off her shoulder and leaned forward, kissing Gabrielle passionately.
XENA
Come here.
Xena sat up and pulled Gabrielle up with her. She sat on the floor leaning against the couch as Gabrielle sat between her legs with her back pressed up against Xena. Xena kissed Gabrielle as she slid her hand down Gabrielle's chest and stomach. Until finally reaching Gabrielle's womanhood. She pushed her fingers inside and began moving them in and out. The resumed sensation in Gabrielle's center caused her moan. She began thrusting her hips to meet Xena's fingers as they pushed into her. Xena continued to move inside Gabrielle as she took her other hand, reached down and began rubbing Gabrielle's clit. Gabrielle groaned Xena's name as her orgasism quickly approached. Xena moved faster knowing that Gabrielle was close. Gabrielle grabbed Xena's arm as she felt herself being sent over the edge. She yelled Xena's name as she came. Throwing her head back as her hips moved on their own with each surge of her orgasism that ripped through her. Xena felt Gabrielle pulsating around her fingers. She smiled, continuing to rub Gabrielle's clit as she pulled her fingers out of her and wrapped her arm around Gabrielle's waist. Holding her as Gabrielle moaned and jerked while Xena prolonged her orgasism. When Gabrielle began to calm down and Xena slowly stopped rubbing and just held her. Gabrielle layed her head back on Xena's shoulder as Xena kissed her and smiled.
GABRIELLE
Are you feeling better now?
XENA
Much.
Gabrielle smiled as she lightly ran her fingertips on Xena's thigh.
GABRIELLE
Always happy to help.
Xena chuckled. Then she sighed when she looked at the problem that unfortunately hadn't fixed itself while she was engaging in her favorite form of stress relief. She lowered her head and rested her chin lightly on Gabrielle's head.
XENA
There's still so much to go through.
GABRIELLE
I know but it'll be worth it if it helps us catch who's been doing all this horrible stuff.
She patted Xena's leg as she got up and began getting dressed.
GABRIELLE
Now how bout I get dressed, get us something to eat and we can buckle down and figure this out.
XENA
(Joking) I mean we technically don't have to be dressed to go over files.
Gabrielle shook her head a laughed a little.
GABRIELLE
Nice try Xena. But we both know full well if we sat around naked we REALLY wouldn't get anywhere on this. Now get your clothes on.
XENA
(Joking) You're no fun.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Riiight. Because you definitely didn't seem to be enjoying yourself a few minutes ago.
Gabrielle finished getting dressed and went to the kitchen.
XENA
Yeah, yeah.
Xena looked at her work. She picked up a file she hadn't gone through yet and put it on the couch. Reading through it as she got dressed.
XENA
Huh.
Thinking she found something Xena picked up the file and sat on the couch as she pulled on her sock, finishing putting her stuff back on. Gabrielle poked her head out of the kitchen.
GABRIELLE
Hey did you want...
XENA
Never mind that come here for a second.
Gabrielle walked over and sat next to Xena on the couch. She looked at the screen Xena was holding.
GABRIELLE
What's this?
XENA
I think I might've found something that can actually help us. It's the last known where abouts of one of the missing persons.
GABRIELLE
Yeah? Every missing persons and murder victim file has a description of where they were last seen alive.
XENA
Exactly.
Gabrielle watched as Xena pulled up a number of random reports from the ones that they've gone through. Along with her murder victims files.
XENA
Look every single person whose gone missing or turned up dead were either last seen or their bodies were found within a 20 block radius.
GABRIELLE
That's still alot of area in the city. But you'd think someone would've caught that by now.
XENA
True. But t think I know why.
Xena grabbed her phone and pulled up a hologram map of the city. She put the phone on the floor as she stood up and walked around the image. Gabrielle watched as Xena moved her finger over certain areas on the map, making that parts she touched turn from it's normal color to red for the murders and blue for the missing persons. After a couple moments she finished. Gabrielle looked at the image and stood up to get a better look.
XENA
What do you see?
GABRIELLE
In the notes it seems random but if you look at things differently you can see that there's clearly a pattern between all the locations.
Gabrielle continued to study the map.
GABRIELLE
Hold on what's this spot.
Gabrielle pointed to a normal colored area that sat in the middle of all the locations.
XENA
It's the factory district.
Xena swipped the image and enlarged the area in question.
GABRIELLE
Is everything there still operational?
XENA
Pretty sure. So it's probably not our killer's base of operations. But I'm willing to bet that it's somewhere in that general vicinity.
GABRIELLE
I'm assuming it's safe to say that this confirms our killer is also the one responsible for the disappearances.
XENA
It seems to odd to be merely coincidence.
GABRIELLE
So what...
Xena's phone beeped. Xena took down the map and answered.
ARES
Bad news there's been another person reported missing.
XENA
Was there blood found at the scene?
ARES
Yeah how'd you know?
XENA
Just a hunch. Do you know where they were last seen?
ARES
Yeah.
Ares gave Xena the location.
XENA
Okay I'll check it out. Send me any info you have.
ARES
Xe...
Before Ares could finish Xena ended the call. She pulled the map back up and added the new disappearance area to the rest.
XENA
Yup it fits the pattern.
Gabrielle stared at the hologram intensly.
GABRIELLE
What is going on in that factory district?
XENA
What ever it is I intend to find out.
It was nearly 5 in the morning when Xena and Gabrielle finally decided to call it a night after spending hours going over the various files from missing persons cases that coincided with Xena's murder investigation. Tired, they packed up the files and went to bed for some much needed sleep. Knowing that the they had alot to do when they got up. Gabrielle sat in the passengers seat scrolling through the news of the morning on the image that came up from her phone as Xena drove through the downtown area of the city.
GABRIELLE
Unbelievable.
XENA
What?
Gabrielle read the tag line of the news article that had caught her eye out loud.
GABRIELLE
"As more people seem to up and vanish from the city, one can't help but wonder what will happen to the housing market"
XENA
What?!
GABRIELLE
My thoughts exactly. People are going missing and turning up dead. And the damn news outlets wanna focus on the state of this city's crappy housing market and the wealthy people who are losing a very small profit of their already ridiculously enormous business empires.
Xena shook her head.
XENA
I don't know why you read that stuff. You know most of it's complete garbage anyway.
Gabrielle shut off her phone and leaned her head back on the seat.
GABRIELLE
I don't know Xena. Maybe I just don't wanna believe that things have gotten so bad. Plus it's my job. I have to know what's being put out there so I can find the best way to break through it all with what actually matters.
Xena smiled at her for a moment.
XENA
And you do an amazing job at that. I know you don't always realize it, but what you do has a real impact on the people of this city. Sure I might take scumbags off the streets. But you warn the people about those guys until I can get my hands on them and that's just as important when it comes to keeping the city safe. Even if the vast majority of the rest of the media outlets can't seem to see that.
Gabrielle smiled.
GABRIELLE
You sure know how to lift a girl's spirits.
XENA
(Joking) Eh I have my moments.
Xena and Gabrielle drove a bit longer until they got to the missing persons house. Their spouse was the one who had reported them missing. So that was the first stop on Xena's list for the days investigation. After getting out of the car the two went and knocked on the door. A man answered and Xena introduced herself and Gabrielle, explaining why they were there. The man invited Xena and Gabrielle inside. After speaking with him for a bit they learned the new missing person worked only two blocks from the factory district. And when they didn't come home after work like always, giving the disappearances the man became worried. And that was three days ago. He had tried to report it sooner but the original officer's he had spoken to didn't take the disappearance seriously. After assuring the man that she'd do everything she could to find them and getting what information they could, Xena and Gabrielle left. The next stop for the two was the last place that their new victim was seen. According to the report they were last seen leaving work by a few fellow employees. So Xena and Gabrielle went to question their co-workers. This however wasn't much help. According to everyone they talked to there wasn't anything that seemed odd or different about them that set off any alarms. All in all with everything Xena and Gabrielle leaned, their latest victim was simply your average, everyday employee, spouse and citizen. The same had been true for everyone else who had gone missing or been killed. There was nothing particularly special about any of them. Each victim varied from race, age, gender identity, sexual orientation, social status, etcetera. Seemingly the only solid connection between them that Xena and Gabrielle could find was the fact that they all lived and worked at or near the city's factory district. It wasn't much but all the clues they had, all seemed to point to that area. So with that in mind the only logical place for Xena and Gabrielle to investigate next was the factory district.
GABRIELLE
(Sighs) You know that area of the city is huge. It'll take us weeks at least to search everywhere. Not to mention half of those buildings are condemned and falling apart.
XENA
I'm aware. But it's not like we have much choice.
GABRIELLE
Can't you call in back up to help us search?
XENA
You should know no one outside my unit is gonna wanna help me.
GABRIELLE
Then have Ares send some of his people.
XENA
Can't, everyone's working their own cases. And don't even ask if Ares will do it himself. I swear that God's gotten lazy over the centuries.
GABRIELLE
So it's just you and me then. I guess some things never change.
Gabrielle smiled at Xena, and Xena smirked back.
XENA
Tell me about it.
It wasn't long before the pair made it to the factory district. Xena drove past the newer buildings and everything that was still up and running. Finally they pulled up to a very large fenced off area. Xena parked the car as she and Gabrielle got out. Gabrielle looked through the chain linked fence at the large run down building's that sat forgotten behind the barrier.
GABRIELLE
I already don't like the looks of this place.
XENA
Yeah. I don't know why they don't just tear down all this mess.
(Sinical tone) Oh wait no one cares.
Come on we have a lot of ground to cover, we better get started.
Xena started walking and pulled open part of the gate.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Goody.
Gabrielle walked over and went through the part of the gate that Xena was holding open. Xena followed and let go, allowing the gate shut behind them.
GABRIELLE
Where do we start?
She looked at the building's in front of them.
XENA
I guess we check the closest building that has a way in and work our way in from there.
GABRIELLE
You know most reporters don't do this much leg work for a story.
XENA
Oh please we both know you would go crazy from boredom if you just sat behind a desk or did those crappy field pieces where you just stand around and talk to people. As much as you might enjoy talking.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Funny.
Xena started walking towards the nearest building.
XENA
Well come on "Gab"-rielle, we have work to do.
Gabrielle rolled her eyes at the bad joke about her name that she had heard for as long as she could remember, due to the fact that she had always been chatty. Briefly, but not seriously contemplating alternatives to legally change her name to. Never the less the search of the factory district began. Gabrielle followed Xena to the first building. They looked around for anything useful but came up with only cobwebs, dust and run down, busted machinery. When nothing out of the ordinary turned up in their search, Xena and Gabrielle moved on to the next building. This pattern continued as the two worked their way through the area.
XENA
Okay here's the next one.
Xena pulled on the door, but it was locked. This wasn't too strange however. A few of the other buildings they had already checked were also locked up. Most likely to prevent trespassers from going in and getting hurt. Xena and Gabrielle looked for another way in as they had done with the other locked up buildings.
XENA
Damn all the windows are boarded up tight.
Gabrielle leaned up against the building.
GABRIELLE
So do we move on or force our way in?
Xena shrugged.
XENA
We can check out the rest of the area and come back to find a way inside.
GABRIELLE
Works for me.
Gabrielle pushed off the wall to stand up straight. As she did she heard a small click. She turned around to look at the wall.
GABRIELLE
Did you hear that?
XENA
Yea.
Xena walked up to wall where Gabrielle was leaning and pushed on it. They heard the clicking sound again. Xena examined the walls surface for any openings. After a couple moments she found a suspicious looking part of the wall that unless you were standing right up close and staring at it, would otherwise go unnoticed. She picked up some scrap metal from the various pieces of junk that were scattered all over the ground and wedged it in very the small opening of the wall. Xena pulled hard as she pried open an apparent hidden door. It was farely heavy so once she got it open a bit, Gabrielle got her hands in the opening and helped her pull. Finally with some effort the two got the door open enough for them to get in. As they entered Xena made sure to stick the piece of metal they used between the door so they didn't run the risk of being locked in. Dispite it being broad daylight outside, with everything being boarded up the inside of the building pretty dark.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) It's too dark in here I can't really see anything.
Xena pulled out her phone and used it as a flashlight. Gabrielle followed suit and turned hers on as well. It was still fairly dark but they could at least now see where they were going.
XENA
(Whisper) Let's see if there's any lights that still work in this place. Stay close we don't need to get separated when we can't see.
Xena and Gabrielle quietly looked for a light. Unsure if anyone else was there, they kept their voices down in case of any danger. Which was the obvious main reason for sticking together. While they were both perfectly capable of handling themselves, not being able to see well would drastically hinder their ability to fight someone off if they we suddenly attacked without warning. So staying close to not get separated was the simply smartest option. Xena was the first to find the wall, she used the light from her phone to search for the power source for the lights. After walking along the wall for a bit she found a panel embedded in the wall. After reading the old sign next to it, she realized it was the power source for the building. As Xena began tapping the screen the panel lit up.
XENA
Well at least this works.
While Xena fiddled with the panel to try to turn on the lights, Gabrielle used her phone to look around a little. She walked around a little, not going too far. As the light from her phone illuminated the spots she aimed at she saw something that looked like some kind of liquid dripping from a table. She cautiously walked closer and saw a tarp covering something. Gabrielle carefully pulled back the tarp just as Xena got the lights to come on.
GABRIELLE
Oh god's.
Xena turned around to see Gabrielle quickly turning away from the table.
XENA
What's wrong?
Xena quickly rushed over, though she didn't need Gabrielle to say anything. Because as she got closer Xena saw that Gabrielle had found one of the people that had gone missing. And not only were they dead, but they had been silt clean open from hip to sternum. Their entrails appeared to have been partially pulled out or removed. Leaving the rest to just spill out wherever they may. But that wasn't all as Xena looked around the newly lit up room she saw a horrific sight. Blood both new and old splattered everywhere, bloody utensils and corpses in various states of decay. Some were chained or tied up. While others were laying on tables or simply just thrown into a pile as if they were nothing more than someone's dirty laundry or discarded trash. And from what Xena could tell none of them appeared to be unmarked by various cuts and incisions on their torsos. It was truly a horrific, disturbing and sickening scene. Even the most harded person would have a very difficult time stomaching this level of depravity. If there was any lingering question of whether Xena and Gabrielle were dealing with someone who was truly sick and evil. The scene that they had just discovered more than killed any and all doubts. Leaving the both of them with a number of pressing questions. Though likely the most important ones being, who could be capable of committing such disturbing acts. And why. Xena scowled, clenching her fist in anger as she looked at the carnage around them.
XENA
I don't know who the sick, fucking bastard is thats doing all this, but I swear I will find them. And when I do, they're gonna pay.
XENA
Fuck!
Xena walked around a little as she took in the scope of the carnage that she and Gabrielle had stumbled upon.
XENA
How on earth did something like this go unnoticed?
GABRIELLE
It's not like people really come around here.
XENA
True. This area of the city's been closed off for a while. The only people who would come here would be dumb ass teens looking for trouble. Or drug addicts wanting some place to get high. And since this particular building was closed off, no one normally would've found it.
Xena sighed.
XENA
Still.
Gabrielle held Xena's arm.
GABRIELLE
We'll stop them Xena. We'll make sure all the people they've killed and their families get justice.
XENA
I better call this in and get C.S.U. down here.
Xena was about to make the call to the Crime Scene Unit when they heard the sound of a screeching car outside.
XENA
Shit!
Xena ran out of the warehouse just in time to see an unidentified car speeding away from the scene.
XENA
Damn it!
Xena ran towards her car.
GABRIELLE
Xena.
Xena stopped when Gabrielle came to the doorway.
XENA
We gotta go. A car just sped out of here.
GABRIELLE
You're gonna wanna come back inside first. I think heard something.
Xena looked back at where she had seen the car speed off. Then back at Gabrielle. Who had a worried expression on her face. As much as she wanted to chase down whoever was in that car, Xena knew that Gabrielle must've found something important. So decided not to follow the mystery vehicle.
XENA
Show me where you heard it.
Gabrielle lead Xena back inside and the area that she had heard the sound. Xena listened.
GABRIELLE
It's feint but doesn't it sound like someone crying?
XENA
It does.
Xena and Gabrielle began searching for the source of the crying. As they looked Gabrielle went to open a door to check a room. When she tried she realized that the door was locked. She gave it a good shove with her shoulder, but it didn't budge. With her ear closer to the door, Gabrielle could hear the crying coming from the other side.
GABRIELLE
Xena over here.
Xena, who was on the phone calling in scene as she searched, looked at Gabrielle. She quickly wrapped up the call and came over. She tried opening the door normally with no luck. Then she too tried using her shoulder to push. But again couldn't get it. Then like Gabrielle had she heard the crying behind the door.
XENA
Alrigh enough of this crap.
Xena stepped back a little as Gabrielle moved out of the way. Xena let out her battle cry as she unleashed one mean kick. The door came right off its hinges and fell flat on the floor inside the room.
GABRIELLE
Good old warrior princess mode never fails.
Gabrielle and Xena went inside and looked around. It wasn't a very big room, but there was a lot of junk all over. They could now here the crying clearly. As they searched Xena moved an empty box out of her way and found the source of the crying. She slowly put the box aside as she crouched down and spoke softly.
XENA
Hey there.
Gabrielle turned towards her when she heard Xena talk. She looked over Xena's shoulder and felt her heart sink when she saw a terrified little boy curled up in the corner.
XENA
It's alright I'm not gonna hurt you. I'm a cop, I'm here to get you somewhere safe.
The boy looked at Xena, unsure of what to do. Gabrielle slowly crouched down next to Xena.
GABRIELLE
I'm Gabrielle and this is Xena. Can you tell us your name?
The boy looked down then back at the two as he spoke bare barely above a Whisper.
BOY
Luka.
Gabrielle softly smiled.
GABRIELLE
It's nice to meet you Luka.
XENA
You know I bet you're hungry.
Luka nodded slightly.
XENA
Okay how about we get out of here and you can eat anything you want.
The boy quickly sprung up into Xena's arms.
XENA
Okay, I got ya.
Xena stood up as held Luka. Making sure he closed his eyes as they left the room to not expose him to something that no one, much less a child should see. Once they were safely out outside Xena put the boy in the back seat of her car and buckled him in. That was when the crime scene unit showed up. Xena and Gabrielle started giving them the run down of what they found inside. As they spoke without warning the building exploded in front of them. The blast killed two officers that were too close and knocked a number of other people back. Including Xena and Gabrielle. The two layed on the ground stunned as for a moment as they looked at fire and debris that fell from the sky. Knowing that they had just missed being caught in the explosion by only a few minutes. As they stood back up, Xena looked at the blaze.
XENA
Bastard. They just destroyed all the evidence. Whoever that was that drove off earlier knew we were here. They blew up the place so we couldn't trace it back to them.
Gabrielle looked at the destroyed warehouse then at Luka in the car.
GABRIELLE
We can't do anything else here. We should bring the boy back to the station and figure out what to do from there.
Xena agreed. The drive was silent as Xena took the three of them back to her office. Both she and Gabrielle periodically looked in the rear view mirror at the quiet, sad and scared little boy that sat in the back seat. Not really wanting to think about what he must've seen and been through. Gabrielle watched as Xena's grip on the steering wheel tightened. Knowing exactly how she was feeling, Gabrielle gently put her hand on Xena's arm. Xena didn't say anything as the two exchanged a look that was a mix of sadness, anger and determination. They would stop the psychopath doing all this. No matter what.
GABRIELLE
That's good huh?
Gabrielle smiled as she looked at the peanut butter and jelly covered face off Luka as he happily ate his sandwich as the two sat at Xena's desk in the precinct. Meanwhile Xena was in Ares' office going over what they had found at the warehouse.
ARES
And everything's gone?
XENA
Nothing but ash and rubble.
Ares sighed as he rubbed his forehead in frustration.
ARES
And what about the kid?
XENA
Physically he's fine. But...
ARES
Yeah based on how you described that place who knows what he's seen.
Xena looked out the open door at the boy with Gabrielle.
XENA
I'm gonna start looking for his parents. See if anyones reported him missing.
ARES
You know that there are departments that handle this sort of thing.
Xena looked back at Ares.
XENA
You don't seriously expect me to just let this go do you?
Ares let out another sigh.
ARES
If I say yes are you gonna listen?
XENA
(Sarcasm) When have I ever listened to a thing you said?
ARES
Yeah that's what I thought. Whatever, you wanna give yourself more work, have fun.
XENA
I'll see what I can find. What do we do with him in the meantime?
ARES
I can call and have someone pick the kid up and take him to a shelter.
XENA
What?! No. Ares you know those places are a horror show.
ARES
So what now you wanna over haul the city's foster care system too?
XENA
(Half serious) It's on the list.
ARES
Xena you can't fix every injustice you see. I know you're capable of doing alot, but there are just some problems that even you can't solve.
Xena grumbled slightly, knowing that unfortunately Ares was right.
XENA
Fine but I'm not sending him to one of those homes.
ARES
Then what do you suggest we do with him?
Xena looked back out at Gabrielle who was keeping the boy occupied. She could see the happiness on Gabrielle's face as she sat with him. Then Xena got an idea as she turned back towards Ares.
XENA
Let me take him.
ARES
He's not a stray puupy Xena. You can't just take him home just because he makes Gabrielle happy.
XENA
Come on Ares I'm not stupid. I'm not saying we keep him.
Xena sighed.
XENA
Look Luka needs a safe and loving place to stay until we find his parents. You know better than anyone that we would never let anything happen to him while he's with us.
ARES
Sure I know that, but we both know it doesn't work like that.
Xena walked up and leaned on Ares' desk as she lowered her voice.
XENA
For most people. But you know full well that we're not like most people. Come on there must be something you can do.
Ares leaned his head back in his chair as he made an annoyed groan.
ARES
Do you have any idea how the amount of phone calls and ass kissing I'm gonna have to do in order for this to happen?
XENA
(Joking) Just make sure your lips aren't chapped.
ARES
(Sarcasm) I think the words you were looking for are "Thank you Ares. You're the best Ares. What would I ever do without you".
XENA
(Sarcasm) Yeah, yeah, yeah.
Xena got up and went to the door. Before she left, Xena stopped and tuned her head back towards Ares. Giving him a sincere look.
XENA
Thank you.
Ares just shook his head and waved her off as Xena walked away.
ARES
Wonder if I can just use my powers to do this.?
(Joking) Or at least disappear to somewhere Xena will never find me. Yeah right, knowing her she'd track me down even if I went to a different planet.
(Sighs) The things I do for that woman.
Xena sat her desk looking at reports of missing persons, checking to see if Luka came up on the list. When nothing came up, she searched for his mother's address. After she and Gabrielle had talked to him, he said that he lived with just his mother and his father was apparently never in the picture. After a little digging Xena discovered that the boys father was currently serving a life sentence in n prison for a series of armed robberies and rapes. So with Luka's mother being the only other known family he had, their focus landed on finding her. A few weeks went by and unfortunately nothing on the little boy's mother turned up. During that time while Xena and Gabrielle continued their investigation, Ares had pulled some strings and made it so the two got temporary custody of Luka until they found the child's mother. Which wasn't as much hassle as he thought it would be, due to the fact that Xena was an outstanding person of the law, with a spotless record dispite her attitude at times. And Gabrielle had never even gotten as much as a parking ticket. So when it came to deciding if the two could provide a suitable home for a child it was an easy choice. Obviously Ares already knew that which was why he had decided to help speed the process along. So the investigation continued. Though now with Luka around, Xena did the field work on her own. While Gabrielle worked from home and watched Luka. Though when Xena was working the precinct, Gabrielle would join her there and bring the boy along. So she could help do what she could. One day Xena sat staring at the screen in front of her reading over something she had found.
XENA
Ah ha!
Gabrielle who was sitting in a chair next to Xena's desk reading something random on her phone looked at Xena, who after sitting quiet and focused for quite some time had finally spoke.
GABRIELLE
Did you find something?
Xena looked at Luka who had climbed his way on Gabrielle's lap and was quietly playing with a little toy that they had gotten him. She kept her voice down to not get his hopes up just incase she was wrong.
XENA
I think we might be having ourselves a pretty happy reunion very soon.
Wanting to be completely sure she had the right address, Xena decided not to bring Gabrielle and Luka along when she went to go check it out. So Gabrielle stayed with the boy at Xena's office, while Xena drove to his mother's apartment. She pulled up to the address and went inside. Xena walked until she found the right apartment number and knocked on the door. As she did, the door opened slightly on its own.
XENA
Hello? I'm a detective.
Xena peeked inside. The lights and TV were on.
XENA
My name's Xena. I'm here because I believe we found...
Xena noticed the state of the apartment. Seeing that it looked like there had been signs of a struggle.
XENA
...your son.
Xena looked down when she stepped in something wet and almost slipped. That was when she saw some blood on the floor.
XENA
Damn it I'm too late.
There was broken glass and blood on the floor, things thrown all over the place and a sinking feeling in Xena's stomach as she stood in the destroyed apartment. This was the last known address for Luka's mother and the scene did not give Xena much confidence that she was going to find anything good there. She stayed on high alert as she began to cautiously search the apartment, calling in the scene as she walked through the living room. She stopped when she stepped on something and looked down. Moving her foot back she squatted down and picked up a damaged and glitchy digital picture frame. The image on the screen flickered but Xena could still see the photo clearly when it was up. She sighed when she saw it was was picture of a smiling woman holding a happy little boy in her arms. And that boy was Luka. Xena shook her head sadly as she stood up and put the photo on a table as she continued her search. She was half hoping that she had gotten the wrong address at first, but now there was no denying that this was Luka and his mother's apartment. With no one in the living room, Xena moved through the rest of the place but didn't find anyone. Not long after the crime scene unit arrived and Xena left to let them work. She had already gone over everything there and didn't find anything that would help her find Luka's mother. She went back to her precinct and told Ares and Gabrielle what she found.
ARES
I'll see if I can put a rush on the DNA from the blood found on the scene. Make sure we know exactly who we're looking for here.
GABRIELLE
If the blood is his mother's, what does that mean for Luka?
ARES
He'll remain with you two until we find her. And if we do and she is dead, then we'll go from there.
XENA
I wouldn't be surprised if she was in that warehouse where we found Luka.
GABRIELLE
Damn your probably right. If that's the case then who knows how long it'll take to find out for sure.
XENA
Yeah that place was already a mess of a crime scene and with the explosion. I don't even wanna think about what it's gonna take to get everything sorted out there.
Gabrielle sighed.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) This just keeps getting better and better.
So what's the plan now?
Ares checked the time.
ARES
It's getting late and it's been a long day. We're not gonna find anything else today, so why don't you two take Luka and go home. I already got things set up, so you're good to go.
XENA
That was fast.
ARES
Well I am a god.
Gabrielle smiled.
GABRIELLE
Thanks Ares.
ARES
It's no big deal. Besides I did this for me. Because not getting the kid ment that you weren't happy. And if you're not happy, Xena's not happy. And if Xena's not happy, well that's not really good for anyone. Especially me. And I don't need that kind of headache.
XENA
(Joking) So it's all about you then.
ARES
(Joking) It always is.
Now I would like to get out of here some time tonight, so as that old saying goes "You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here."
XENA
Don't gotta tell me twice.
Xena and Gabrielle left Ares' office, got Luka and went home.
GABRIELLE
There we go, all tucked in
Gabrielle lightly patted the blanket as she finished tucking in Luka on the couch.
GABRIELLE
Are you sure you're gonna be okay sleeping here?
LUKA
I'm okay.
Xena leaned on the arm of the couch.
XENA
You need anything we're right in that room there.
Xena pointed to their bedroom which was in the hallway off the living room. The boy nodded as he yawned.
XENA
Looks like someone's sleepy. Get some sleep okay.
Xena patted his head as she and Gabrielle walked to their room. Leaving their door partially open so they could hear Luka if he needed anything. Gabrielle stared at the ceiling as she layed in bed.
GABRIELLE
You have to catch the maniac doing this Xena. That warehouse today, and Luka...
XENA
I know.
Xena turned to her side, facing Gabrielle.
XENA
We'll figure this out. I won't stop until that sick bastard gets what's coming to them.
GABRIELLE
I just hope it's soon.
Gabrielle snuggled up to Xena as Xena's arm wrapped around her and the two slowly drifted off to sleep. Morning came as Xena walked by Luka sitting on the couch eating his breakfast as he watched cartoons. Gabrielle was sitting at the kitchen table looking through her notes on the case when Xena walked in.
XENA
You know it won't change no matter how hard you stare at it.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) Funny.
Gabrielle shut down the hologram as she leaned her head in her hand looking at Xena.
GABRIELLE
You hear back about the D.N.A. yet?
XENA
Haven't checked.
Xena pulled out her phone and checked her messages.
XENA
Nothing yet.
GABRIELLE
what's taking so long?
XENA
There was a lot to go through in that warehouse. It's gonna take time Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
(Sighs) I know. Still.
XENA
Yeah neither one of us have ever been very good at just waiting around have we?
Gabrielle chuckled a little.
GABRIELLE
You can say that again.
Xena grabbed an apple from the bowl of fruit on the counter and took a bite.
XENA
Guess I'll just go around questioning the last few people on the list today. See what I can come up with.
GABRIELLE
You need back up?
XENA
Nah I should have this done quick. You can stay here with Luka.
GABRIELLE
Works for me. That'll let me organize my notes better. And let me catch up on a few little writing assignments for work.
XENA
Sounds good.
Xena gave Gabrielle a quick kiss and grabbed her things.
XENA
I'll see you later.
GABRIELLE
Stay out of trouble.
XENA
(Joking) Now where's the fun in that?
Gabrielle smirked, shaking her head as Xena walked out of the kitchen.
XENA
See ya later little man. Be good.
LUKA
K.
Xena patted Luka's head as she walked by.
LUKA
Are you gonna find mommy today?
Xena stopped and walked over to the boy, squatting down in front of him.
XENA
I hope so. I'm gonna do everything I can to find her real soon.
LUKA
Okay.
Xena looked up at Gabrielle who was standing in the doorway. Both of them hoping that they hadn't actually already found her. Xena stood back up.
XENA
I'll be back soon.
GABRIELLE
Stay safe. Love you.
Xena left and drove around questioning the rest of the people on her list. Not really getting any more answers.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) All this running around and all I've got to show for it is a whole lotta nothing.
Xena sighed as she sat in her car checking off another name.
XENA
Now what?
Xena's phone beeped and she answered.
GABRIELLE
Hey how's it going?
XENA
Hey.
Gabrielle saw the look on Xena's face.
GABRIELLE
I'm guessing from your expression that you didn't find anything.
XENA
Unfortunately.
GABRIELLE
How much longer till you're done.
XENA
Not long I only have a couple more places to go. I should be done in about an hour or two.
GABRIELLE
Okay.
XENA
How's Luka doing.
GABRIELLE
Fine. I'm making dinner for him now.
Xena checked the time seeing that it was already past 6 o'clock.
XENA
Damn it's that late already?
GABRIELLE
Time flies when you're chasing down bad guys.
XENA
Apparently. Anyway I'll finish this up and be home in a bit.
GABRIELLE
Okay I'll see you soon.
XENA
Bye.
Xena hung up and tossed her phone on the passengers seat. She stretched her neck as she thought of the next place on her list.
XENA
Okay let's get this done.
She was about to start driving when Xena's phone beeped. She picked it up and saw that she had finally gotten the autopsy reports from the bodies that were managed to be recovered from the warehouse explosion. She scrolled through for a bit and then stopped.
XENA
Shit.
As Xena read she found a report that said that a body recovered from the warehouse was a perfect match for the DNA from the blood found at the apartment. Luka's mother was infact one of the victims found there. Xena angerly threw her phone on the seat.
XENA
Fuck!
She leaned her head on the steering wheel. Feeling incredibly frustrated about the whole situation. Knowing that now she was going to have to somehow tell the innocent little boy back home that his mother was dead. She sat back.
XENA
Screw it I'll finish questioning people tomorrow.
Xena started to drive home. Deciding to wait until she got home to tell Gabrielle that way they could both figure out the best way to tell Luka about his mother. She was stopped at a traffic light idlely watching the other cars go through the intersection. While she waited for the light to change she noticed a car on the opposite side of the cross section looked familiar. She grabbed her phone and zoomed in with the camera. The light changed and the car turned the corner and drove off. As it turned Xena recognized the back of the car. She quickly snapped a picture as she opened her notes finding the license plate from the car that fled the scene from the warehouse. It was a match. Xena quickly tossed her phone and stomped on the accelerator, following after the vehicle.
XENA
Found you, you son of a bitch. You're not getting away this time.
The driver in front of her must've recognized Xena's car, because once xena started following them, the car took off and started trying to speed away.
XENA
Oh no you don't.
Xena sped up and followed her fleeing mystery suspect. With that the chase was on. As the two cars sped down the street. Weaving through the traffic of the busy city. Xena's sights were locked on, ready to take down the criminal that had caused all the pain and suffering that she had seen from this case. She was ready to put a stop to their madness once and for all.
The tires on Xena's car screeched as she speed around the corner, flipping on the siren as she chased after the vehicle in front of her. She clenched the steering wheel tight as the cityscape flew past the windows as she drove. Her gaze focused on the car ahead trying to dart between traffic in an effort to lose Xena. But she stayed hot on their trail. Even when she was a few cars back, Xena maneuvered between the vehicles and found herself right behind her fleeing suspect once again.
XENA
Your gonna have to try a lot harder than that if you wanna get rid of me now.
Over the centuries Xena had picked up a vast variety of skills to add to the already impressive resume that had all come in handy in all sorts of situations. One of those skills being driving. Once she was behind the wheel, Xena could chase down anyone. No matter how good they thought they were, Xena could always out maneuver them. And Xena wasn't about to let this situation be any different.
XENA
You got lucky getting away once, I won't you escape again.
The two cars sped up a hill. Launching through the air as they went over the top, before landing back on the road on other side and continued on without stopping. Tire marks scared the pavement as the car in front suddenly skidded around another corner. Xena followed right behind, but her tires must've lost some traction. Because as she sped around the corner, her car slid further through the intersection and spun out. Xena quickly stepped on her brakes and brought the car safely to a stop. With the vehicle now facing the wrong direction, Xena looked behind her, seeing her mystery suspect driving away.
XENA
If you think you're getting away that easily, you've got another thing coming.
Xena quickly put her car in reverse and while turng in her seat and looking behind her, went on chasing after the other vehicle while driving backwards. Having no more difficulty keeping up than when she was driving normally. The two cars continued through the busy city streets. Avoiding the other people on the road as they breezed past the traffic. The mystery person in front quickly turned another corner. Xena took the opportunity and briefly stopped in the intersection and switched back to driving regularly as she stomped on the gas and continued the chase. Xena's pursuit eventually led her to the outskirts of the city. The sun had begun to set as the lead car suddenly turned off the road and sped down a dirt path. Xena stayed right on their trail and followed close behind.
GABRIELLE
Huh Xena should be home any time now.
Gabrielle put down her phone after checking the time. Looking out the window at the slowly darkening sky as she sat on the couch.
LUKA
Can we play one more game?
Gabrielle looked at Luka who was on the other end of the couch and smiled as she shook her head.
GABRIELLE
Sorry but it's getting late and little boys need their sleep.
LUKA
Pleeeease.
Gabrielle couldn't help but smile and laugh a little at the cute little face looking up at her.
GABRIELLE
Fine, but this is it. One more game then it's bedtime got it.
LUKA
Okay.
A car burst through a locked gate as it kicked up dust from the dirt road beneath it's tires. It drove full speed towards an unknown destination. Another car followed not far behind with Xena at the wheel as she remained in hot pursuit. With no other traffic in her way, Xena began to gain ground on the vehicle she had been chasing.
XENA
Big mistake going somewhere much more open. Now I gotcha.
The sky got darker as night fell and the lead car made a quick turn behind some trees momentarily leaving Xena's sight. Xena made the same turn. She was suddenly forced to stomp on the brakes when she saw the car stopped right at the turn. However she couldn't stop in time and smashed into the back end of the car. Fortunately Xena was uninjured, just a little stunned. She sat there for a moment as she realized what happened. Then she saw a person a little in the distance going into the abandoned amusement park that she just realized she was at.
XENA
Okay now you're just pissing me off.
Xena got out of the car and ran after them. She hugged the wall at the entrance and cautiously peeked around the corner. Even though she didn't particularly like to use it, Xena pulled out her gun and kept it ready. She thought it was far too easy for anyone to get one and seen far too many people accidentally or easily injured and killed from them. She missed the days of swords and other simpler weaponry where it wasn't so easy for innocent by standers to get caught up in the cross fire. But in situations where she felt like the benefits out weighed the risks and found it to be the best option she would use it. In this scenario with no one else but the suspect around and not knowing what she was walking into, Xena found this an appropriate time to have her gun ready. She yelled in to the area.
XENA
Police! You've got no where left to run. Come on out with your hands up. Do not make me come after you.
When Xena got no response, she made sure the coast was clear and ventured inside.
XENA
Fine have it your way.
As it got darker, Xena took out her phone that she grabbed before she left her car and tuned it on, using it for a little light. The amusement park was eerily silent as she carefully walked through. Staying on her guard she looked around. She spotted a shadow duck behind one of the broken down rides.
XENA
(Talking quietly) There you are.
Xena sped up a little and stopped when she reached the ride. She leaned against it as she peeked around. No one was there.
XENA
(Talking quietly) Shit, where'd they go?
Xena carefully walked out from behind the ride and looked around for any signs of her mystery suspect. She slowly continued through the area, but fell to the ground when out of nowhere she was suddenly struck from behind. Stunned Xena tried to get up but was quickly hit in the head again. Her vision blurred as she fell face down in the dirt. Xena turned her head and saw a pair of feet walk up to her. Her head in a fog Xena reached out and grabbed onto the ankle of the person standing over her. As blood began to run down the side of Xena's face from the blows to the head, she tried to pull herself up. She looked up to see who was standing in front of her. But before Xena could see their face, she was struck again and after that Xena's world went dark as she fell unconscious.
GABRIELLE
Damn voice mail again.
Gabrielle looked at the time. It was now going on 11 o'clock at night.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Xena should've been home hours ago.
She stood up from the couch as she scrolled through the list of numbers on her phone until she found the one she was looking for and hit the icon. It rang for a number of times until finally the face a tired looking Ares Appeared on the hologram in front of her.
ARES
(Annoyed tone) What?
GABRIELLE
You haven't heard from Xena have you?
ARES
It's 11 at night Gabrielle why would Xena be calling me?
GABRIELLE
That's my point Ares. I can't get a hold of her and she was supposed to be home hours ago.
ARES
Have you checked the G.P.S. on her phone?
GABRIELLE
Of course I checked. But it's been turned off.
ARES
Well have you considered that maybe Xena went somewhere she doesn't want you to know about.
GABRIELLE
(Irritated tone) What's that supposed to mean?
Gabrielle gave Ares an angry look not liking what she thought he was implying.
ARES
Easy girl, before you start giving me an earfull about how she could never do that sort of thing, relax I didn't mean it like that. I simply ment that maybe Xena found something and she didn't want you following her because she thought it was too dangerous.
GABRIELLE
Even if that's true, she still would've called by now.
ARES
Relax this is Xena we're talking about, I'm sure what ever she's up to she's fine. She just probably found something, went to investigate and just forgot her phone in the car or something. She can handle herself just fine, so i'm sure you're just worrying for nothing.
GABRIELLE
(Sighs) Yeah you're probably right.
ARES
(Joking) Well at least someone finally admits that.
Can I go back to bed now?
GABRIELLE
Talk to you later.
ARES
Yeah, yeah.
Gabrielle ended the call and looked out the window. Still not able to shake the feeling that something was wrong.
GABRIELLE
I really hope Ares is right.
She looked at the dark sky outside.
GABRIELLE
Just please be okay and come home soon Xena.
There was a painful throbbing in Xena's head as she slowly began to stir. Her eyes opened a little and shut again when she felt the aching becoming worse the more she woke up. After a moment she opened her eyes again and lifted her head. As she regained her focus from being knocked out, she began to become aware of her situation. Xena felt a trickle of blood as it ran down the side of her face. There was some sort of cloth stuffed in her mouth and tied around her head, Cleary so she wouldn't be able to speak or yell for help. She tried to move, but realized that she had been tied up and chained to a steel beam. She fought to get free but soon stopped struggling when she realized she wasn't getting out that easily. Xena leaned her head back against the beam as she tried to lock around to figure out where she was. Unfortunately where ever Xena was it was farely dark. All she could really knew was that she was sitting on the cold, hard, concrete floor in some kind of old, run down looking building. She looked around and saw a small window on the far wall behind her. Though she couldn't really see anything how dark it now was outside. Xena looked up as she tried to figure out what she was going to do to get out of this.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) Damn just how long was I out for. I need to find a way out of here.
Gabrielle nervously paced back and forth in their living room trying to think of where Xena could be. It was now almost 2:30 in the morning and there was still no sign of her. Gabrielle had called everyone she could think of that might've seen or heard from her but no one had any contact with Xena since Gabrielle had spoken to her last and that was hours ago.
GABRIELLE
Something's really wrong, I know it. Xena would never just disappear like this.
There was a small flash of light as Aphrodite popped into the living room. Gabrielle hugged her.
GABRIELLE
I'm glad you're here.
APHRODITE
Still no signs of Xena yet?
GABRIELLE
No. I'm really worried Aphrodite. I don't know what could've happened to her.
APHRODITE
Don't worry my bros got his people out there looking for her. Well find her Gabby.
GABRIELLE
I just can't shake the feeling that Xena's in trouble. I wish I could be out there looking too.
APHRODITE
I know.
Aphrodite looked around for a moment.
APHRODITE
By the way where's that little cutie I've heard so much about?
Being that Xena and Gabrielle were such good friends with Aphrodite and the fact that she was one of Xena's informants, she knew all about Luka.
GABRIELLE
I'm letting him sleep in our room so I don't wake him with my pacing around, constant phone calls and checking the news to see if anything turns up there.
APHRODITE
Good idea.
Gabrielle sighed as she grabbed her phone and called Ares again for the unknown numbered time.
ARES
I don't know what you want me to tell you, we still don't have any thing yet.
Gabrielle put the phone down when she heard Ares voice coming from behind her. Having clearly gotten tired of her phone calls, Ares had decided to try delivering the message in person. Gabrielle turned around as he crossed his arms and looked at her.
ARES
I told you I would call you as soon as I got any information.
Gabrielle sighed sadly as she went over to the couch and sat down.
GABRIELLE
I know, I know. I just...
Ares sighed.
ARES
I get it.
Ares walked over and put his hand on Gabrielle's shoulder.
ARES
We're gonna find her. Just make sure you keep your phone nearby incase she calls.
Gabrielle looked up at him and nodded slightly.
ARES
Okay. Hang in there. I'll give you an update soon.
Ares stepped back and disappeared. Leaving to return to help the rest of the detectives on the force trying to locate Xena. Aphrodite could see the tears forming in Gabrielle's eyes as she sat there quietly. She walked over and sat next to her.
APHRODITE
Is there anything I can do?
GABRIELLE
No. I don't think so. But thanks anyway.
APHRODITE
Okay. I'll just stay here until they find Xena.
Gabrielle looked at her friend.
GABRIELLE
Thank you.
APHRODITE
Of course that's what friends are for.
Meanwhile Xena was still trying to escape her restraints. She let out an groan of pure frustration when for all her efforts, she still couldn't get free.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) Come on damn it.
She huffed pulled against the chains and rope holding her. Then stopped to catch her breath for a moment.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) Rope AND chains, someone's a little excessive.
Xena pulled again but still couldn't get anything to budge. She had already tried to see if there was anything she could reach with her feet but there was nothing around her. At least nothing Xena could see. The room was still pretty dark so she wasn't able to really see much. As Xena sat there trying to come up with a way out of her situation, she heard what sounded like a heavy door being opened and shut. Then footsteps coming up behind her. After a moment they stopped and the lights inside the dark building came on. The sudden brightness blinded Xena for a moment as she squeezed her eyes shut and then blunk a few times as her eyes adjusted to the light. Once she could see again Xena saw where she was. She appeared to have been being held captive in the amusement parks fun house. Though with how old and run down everything looked, the name "fun house" was now more of an ironic title. It looked more a long the lines of being a haunted house then any place that could be possibly referred to as fun. It honestly kind of gave Xena the creeps. Xena scowled when out of the corner of her eye she saw a broken down, robotic, creepy looking clown sitting in the corner among a bunch of other junk.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) Ick, I've always hated clowns.
The footsteps resumed making their way towards Xena. She leaned her head back as she waited for whatever was there to show themselves. She perked up when she heard a small chuckle as the footsteps got right up behind her. Xena growled into the gag in her mouth at the sound of the voice.
?
(Mocking tone) Well, well, well. Look who we have here.
Xena watched as someone walked in front of her and stood there. Xena angerly glared up at the mocking, evil smile on the face of the person standing before her. She pulled against her restraints as she finally layed eyes on the one who was clearly behind all the kidnappings and murders. Completely surprised, confused and enraged by who she saw.
ALTI
Hello Xena, it's been far too long since we've seen each other last hasn't it?
Xena glared up at Alti while she sat bound and gagged on the floor of the abandoned fun house. Alti looked down at her as she smiled a menacing grin.
ALTI
(Mocking tone) What's wrong Xena, not happy to see me?
Xena made a small growl into the cloth in her mouth.
ALTI
Oh right, I guess you can't really answer me right now can you?
Alti crouched down in front of Xena and removed the gag.
ALTI
There we go now we can have a little chat. It's not like anyone can hear you if you yell for help anyway.
XENA
Alti. Shouldn't you be dead?
ALTI
Yes you tried to kill me, but you apparently couldn't quite get the job done.
XENA
You've been out of the picture for centuries, why turn up now? What are you up to?
ALTI
Oh I've been around Xena. Our paths just haven't crossed in a very long time.
Alti stood back up.
ALTI
As for what I'm doing? Unfortunately after all this time my powers have for reason begun to weaken. But luckily I've found a way to restore my power. It's a slow process, but I have been seeing results little by little.
Xena felt herself growing more infuriated by the moment.
XENA
You monster. You've been using innocent people as ritualistic human sacrifices just so you can have more power?!
Xena pulled against her restraints. Alti chuckled slightly as Xena unsuccessfully fought to get free.
XENA
Alti I swear you will pay for all the people you've hurt and killed.
ALI
Will I? Because from where I'm standing you're not exactly in the position to do anything to stop me.
XENA
We'll see. You do realize that I'm not the only detective in this city. Someone will eventually figure out what you've doing. You will be stopped.
Alti just laughed. Then she appeared to think of something.
ALTI
Ah yes since you mentioned other people. I believe you took something that belongs to me. And I want him back.
Xena clenched her fist that were still tied behind her.
XENA
Luka. He's just a child, what could you possibly need him for specifically?
ALTI
Simple. Most children have far more pure and innocent souls than adults. And the more pure the soul the greater the power I can get from the sacrifice. Unfortunately getting children by themselves is difficult so I've had to settle for others as well.
XENA
So that's the connection between everyone you've murdered. You're literally killing your victims strictly because they're good people. You're even more evil than I ever could've imagined.
Alti didn't say anything as she walked over to a table, picked something up and came back.
ALTI
Now tell me where I can find the boy.
XENA
What makes you possibly think that I'd tell you where he is?
ALTI
I knew you'd say something like that. If you won't tell me, I know someone who will.
Alti held up Xena's phone to show her that she had clearly taken from her, as she opened Xena's contacts and tapped the first icon on the screen. The phone on the table rang as Gabrielle quickly snatched it up and looked at the screen. Seeing the name that came up, she instantly answered.
GABRIELLE
Xena where the hell have you been? Do you have...
Gabrielle stopped when all she could see was what looked like a bunch of junk on the hologram image. Then she heard someone chuckle in the back ground.
GABRIELLE
Xena?
Gabrielle looked at the screen as someone other than Xena came into view as the phone moved. She could hardly believe what was seeing.
GABRIELLE
Alti. How?
ALTI
Hello Gabrielle.
Gabrielle quickly pushed aside her initial shock and got straight to the matter at hand.
GABRIELLE
Why do you have Xena's phone? Where's Xena? What did you do with her?
ALTI
Nothing... yet. She's right here, see.
Alti turned the phone so Gabrielle could see Xena.
GABRIELLE
Xena!
Xena looked at the hologram, seeing Gabrielle's worried face.
XENA
Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
Are you okay?
XENA
I'm alright.
Alti turned the phone back towards her.
ALTI
See, like I said she's just fine. For now.
Gabrielle scowled at Alti.
GABRIELLE
What do you want Alti?
ALTI
The child that you have in your possession, bring him to me.
GABRIELLE
Luka? Absolutely not. I would never hand over an innocent child to the likes of you.
Xena smirked.
XENA
See I told you.
Angered by Xena's cocky comment, Alti swung her hand and smacked Xena hard across the face.
GABRIELLE
Xena!
ALTI
Quiet I wasn't talking to you.
Alti returned her focus to Gabrielle.
ALTI
Now as I was saying, bring me the child and in return I'll let xena go.
GABRIELLE
And if I don't?
Alti chuckled as she walked over and placed Xena's phone on a table a few feet away from Xena. Making sure Gabrielle had a clear view of her.
ALTI
Oh you will... trust me.
Gabrielle watched as Alti walked over and stood beside Xena. Xena grimaced as Alti roughly grabbed a hand full of her hair and lifted her head to look at her and then right at Gabrielle.
ALTI
I wonder just how long you're gonna be able to sit and watch what I'm about to do to her before you finally give me what I want. Oh and once you have our location, if you end the call or bring anyone but the child with you, I'll kill her. Very, very slowly.
Alti let go and smacked Xena again. Ever defyent, Xena simply looked up at Alti and smirked.
XENA
Is that the best you've got?
ALTI
Oh no. We're just getting started.
A small splatter of blood hit the floor as Xena spat some out of her mouth. She huffed as she looked at Alti who had struck her again. Her face and body beginning to form multiple bruises as Gabrielle angerly looked at the image from her phone at home.
ALTI
Are we done yet?
XENA
Funny I was about to ask you the same thing. Ugh...
Xena felt the air driven out of her when she got a hard hit in the stomach. Gabrielle could only watch as Xena coughed and caught her breath.
GABRIELLE
That's enough Alti!
All looked over at the hologram from Xena's phone.
ALTI
You know how to stop this.
GABRIELLE
You're not getting Luka.
ALTI
Suite your self.
Alti punched Xena again and walked over to a small table. She had her back to Xena and Gabrielle so they couldn't see what she was doing.
ALTI
Ah let's start with this one.
She turned and came back over to Xena who was still tied up and sitting on the floor. Alti crouched down next to Xena as she grabbed her hair making sure Gabrielle could see her clearly. She smiled at Gabrielle as she held up a small knife. Then in a swift motion Alti sliced Xena's cheek. Xena let out a quick yell as she instinctively turned her face away. Then with blood now running down the side of her face from the fresh cut, Xena looked back at her captor.
ALTI
Well?
XENA
Fuck.. you.
Xena yelled again when Alti quickly made another cut on her arm. Then her leg, then above her chest, her other arm. Each time as much as she tried not to, Xena made some kind of painful reaction. Gabrielle had tears in her eyes as she was forced to witness Xena's torture. Aphrodite who was still with Gabrielle couldn't stand to watch any more. As much as she wanted to just pop over to Xena's location, she couldn't risk Alti just out right killing Xena the moment she showed up. She got up and stood sadly by the window as she still heard Xena from Gabrielle's phone. Not knowing what she could do in this situation. Another painful yell could be heard as Gabrielle began to cry, seeing Xena being tortured like this was tearing up her heart.
GABRIELLE
Stop! Please just stop.
Alti paused her actions and looked at Gabrielle's image.
ALTI
Have you finally seen enough?
GABRIELLE
I...
Xena could see just how torn Gabrielle was.
XENA
Gabrielle.
Xena weakly smiled at her.
XENA
We can't give Alti Luka.
GABRIELLE
I know but...
XENA
It'll be okay. I promise. I love you.
GABRIELLE
...Xena.
ALTI
So I take it that's a no.
XENA
You're damn right.
Alti looked at Gabrielle who just sadly lowered her head as she sat there quietly.
ALTI
Fine. Then I think it's time to up the steaks.
Alti moved to the other side of the room and came walking back pulling a long chain that ran along a track on the ceiling behind her. She stopped next to Xena. Then Alti lossened the restraints that held Xena to the steel beam she had been tethered to. Xena instantly tried to fight back but Alti quickly retightened her restraints. Then she grabbed Xena's hair and smacked her head into the steal beam a couple of times. Leaving Xena stunned. Alti held Xena by the throat as she looked at her.
ALTI
Now let's try this again.
Gabrielle watched as Alti untied Xena from the beam while Xena just sat there to out off it to do anything at the moment. After undoing Xena's wrists and retieing them in front of her, Alti put them on the hook. Then she walked to the wall and hit something on a control panel. She walked back over as Xena was slowly lifted into the air by her wrists. After a minute it stopped rising and Xena just hung there. Her feet not quite able to touch the floor. Alti stood in front of the now suspected Xena as she looked at Gabrielle's hologramed face.
ALTI
There now you have a much better view for the show.
Alti didn't say anything else as she walked back to the table and came back carrying a metal pipe. Gabrielle's eyes went wide as Alti pulled back and then swung the pipe full force into Xena's ribs. The room echoed with Xena's loud cry of anguish. She gasped for breath as she felt the emeinse pain in her side. But apparently Alti wasn't done. She walked to the opposite side, pulled back and sent the pipe cracking into those ribs as well. Causing Xena to once again cry out. Still not satisfied Alti then took the end of the pipe and ground it into one of Xena's sides. Xena jerked as she tried to kick Alti away. But Alti simply stepped out of her reach and looked at Xena.
ALTI
Give me the child.
XENA
Never.
Alti angerly clenched the pipe in her hand.
ALTI
I forgot just how stubborn you can be. Fine have it your way Xena.
Alti then proceeded to mercilessly beat Xena with the pipe. Striking her again and again and again. Gabrielle watched in horror as tears streamed down her face. With every hit, every yell she felt like she could feel each of the blows in her very soul. Her heart sank further and further as Xena soon stopped yelling when she was hit. Finally Gabrielle reached her breaking point.
GABRIELLE
(Sobbing) Stop! I'll give you what you want! I'll do it.
Alti once again paused in her brutal and barbaric beating. She looked at Gabrielle.
ALTI
Are you sure?
Gabrielle lowered her head in shame and sadness.
GABRIELLE
Yes, I'll give you Luka.
Xena, who was barely conscious at that point, slowly raised her head and with the eye that wasn't swollen shut looked at Gabrielle as she spoke to Alti.
XENA
(Weakly) Gabrielle, no.
Gabrielle looked at Xena's beaten and bloodied body she cried as she spoke.
GABRIELLE
I'm sorry Xena. I have to do this. I can't sit here and watch her slowly kill you. I just can't.
ALTI
At least one of you appears to have at least some sense. Now Gabrielle shall we talk business.
GABRIELLE
If I do this I need your word that you won't lay another finger on Xena.
Xena tried to talk Gabrielle out of what she was about to do. But Alti gagged her again as she continued to negotiate with Gabrielle.
ALTI
I swear I won't harm a single hair on her blood soaked head.
Gabrielle scowled at the comment.
GABRIELLE
Fine.
Gabrielle looked at Aphrodite for a moment who had walked back over to her when she heard Gabrielle finally cave into Alti's demand.
ALTI
Now how should we do this?
GABRIELLE
I can bring him to you. Just tell me where you are.
Alti thought for a moment.
ALTI
I suppose that'll do.
Gabrielle felt guilty as she breathe a small sigh of relief.
ALTI
I'll end the call and send you our location. Once I do, you have two hours to bring the child to me here.
GABRIELLE
I understand.
ALTI
Good.
Alti was just about to end the call when she stopped.
ALTI
Oh I almost forgot. Gabrielle you and the child are the only ones I want to see come here. If you inform the police or anyone else of our whereabouts...
Alti picked up a small blade and pressed it into Xena's neck. Though not hard enough to break the skin.
ALTI
You'll be watching helplessly as she bleeds out like a butchered animal when I slit her throat.
Gabrielle didn't say anything as she slowly nodded.
ALTI
Good. I expect to be seeing you very soon.
With that Alti ended the call. Gabrielle just sat there on the couch for a moment. The gravity of the situation weighed heavy on her. Aphrodite walked back over and sat next to her.
APHRODITE
I know how much Xena means to you, but you're not seriously going to do what that monster says are you?
Gabrielle looked at her phone when she got a message from Alti, giving her their location. After sitting silently for a moment, Gabrielle didn't look at Aphrodite as she finally spoke.
GABRIELLE
Aphrodite, I'm going to get Luka and when I come back I need you to send us to the location that Alti gave me.
Aphrodite looked at Gabrielle, surprised by what she had just said.
APHRODITE
Gabrielle I know how you feel about Xena and seeing what Alti was doing to her, I can't imagine how you must feel right now. I wanna save her too, but think about what you're saying.
Gabrielle looked up at Aphrodite.
GABRIELLE
I'm fully aware of what I'm doing.
Aphrodite couldn't believe what she was hearing.
APHRODITE
But you heard Xena yourself. You know that she would never want this.
GABRIELLE
Aphrodite please. I can't leave Xena in the hands of that monster.
Aphrodite saw the tears as they fell from Gabrielle's eyes.
GABRIELLE
If I don't do something Alti's gonna kill her. But probably not before she makes xena suffer even more than she already has. You saw for yourself what she was doing to her.
Aphrodite hugged her friend as she cried.
GABRIELLE
Please Aphrodite, help me save Xena. I need her. She's everything to me.
APHRODITE
I know. It's always been that way for the both you. But what you're asking me to do. Gabrielle he's just a sweet little boy. I can't let you do this. Not just for him. But for you. You would never forgive yourself.
Gabrielle pulled out of Aphrodite's hug as she stopped crying and wiped her tears away.
GABRIELLE
I'm not going to let anything happen to Luca. I swear. I'll protect him with my life if I have to. I just need you to bring us both to Alti. Please Xena doesn't have much time.
Aphrodite was relieved to hear that Gabrielle actually wasn't planning on handing Luka over to Alti. Even though she still felt uneasy about even bringing the child anywhere near that place.
APHRODITE
I hope you know what you're doing.
GABRIELLE
Please just trust me on this.
APHRODITE
Okay Gabby. Get Luka and I'll take you.
Gabrielle stood up and went to leave the room, stopping for a moment to look back at her friend.
GABRIELLE
Thank you Aphrodite.
Gabrielle left the room to get Luka. After a few minutes Gabrielle returned to the living room carrying a sleeping Luka wrapped in a blanket. The boys head rested soundly on her shoulder as Gabrielle gently held him in her arms. She spoke quietly as she walked over to Aphrodite.
GABRIELLE
Okay I'm ready when you are.
APHRODITE
(Sighs) Okay.
Gabrielle grabbed her phone typed something and showed Aphrodite where Alti said to go. She then put it in her jeans back pocket as Aphrodite nodded and stood next to her. She put her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder and in an instant they disappeared from the living room. A moment later they appeared just outside the fun house at the abandoned amusement park.
APHRODITE
Well we're here. Wow this place could really use a makeover.
Gabrielle and Aphrodite looked at the rundown, creepy surroundings they now stood in.
GABRIELLE
You know what to do right?
APHRODITE
I'll be ready.
GABRIELLE
Okay let's get this over with.
Gabrielle took a breath as she began walking towards the entrance still carring the bundled up Luka in her arms.
GABRIELLE
(Thinking to herself) Please just let Xena still be alive.
Gabrielle looked at the creepy exterior of the fun house for a second and went inside. She stood in a small room just at the entrance. Different from the one that Alti was holding Xena in. She spoke loud enough to Alert Alti of her arrival, but not so loud that she woke up Luka.
GABRIELLE
Alti I'm here. I have Luka.
Gabrielle stood there for a moment and waited for Alti to appear. Which she did shortly after Gabrielle called her.
ALTI
(Condescending tone) Ah Gabrielle so good of you to come.
Gabrielle glared at Alti with a burning hatred in her eyes.
GABRIELLE
We're here, now where's Xena?
ALTI
Uh uh, the child first.
Gabrielle showed that she did in fact have Luka. When Alti put out her hands to receive the child, Gabrielle held him closer.
GABRIELLE
Not until I know Xena's still alive. I wanna see her for myself.
ALTI
Very well, if you insist. This way.
Alti lead Gabrielle to where she was keeping Xena. Once the door to the room opened Gabrielle saw Xena still hanging by her wrists. Her head hung low as her body just hung there limply. The sight of seeing Xena this beaten and bloodied in person was even worse than Gabrielle had thought. True that throughout all their time together Gabrielle had seen Xena severely injured many times. Far too many as far as Gabrielle was concerned. But regardless of that fact it still didn't make seeing the one she loved more than anything in this kind of state any easier.
GABRIELLE
Xena!
With tears in her eyes Gabrielle ran over to her. She got to Xena and slowly reached out with one hand and gently touched Xena's face. As Xena felt something softly touch her cheek, she opened her eyes and slowly raised her head as she saw who was standing before her.
XENA
(Weakly) Gabrielle.
Gabrielle gently stroked Xena's cheek with her thumb as she softly spoke.
GABRIELLE
It's okay Xena I'm here now.
XENA
(Weakly) You shouldn't have come.
Xena then saw the bundle that Gabrielle was holding in her other arm.
XENA
(Weakly) Gabrielle no.
GABRIELLE
Shh everything's gonna be okay.
ALTI
Okay you saw Xena. Now hand him over.
Gabrielle looked over her shoulder as Alti begin walking towards them. She turned around to face Alti.
GABRIELLE
Fine you want Luka?...
XENA
(Weakly) Don't do it.
GABRIELLE
Then take him..
XENA
(Weakly) No.
Alti held out her hands to take Luka.
GABRIELLE
Now!
The moment after Gabrielle shouted a fire ball whipped through the air and hit Alti. Knocking her down. Right after that Aphrodite materialized next to Xena, Gabrielle and Luka. Alti got up just in time to see Aphrodite put her hands on Xena and Gabrielle who still had Luka. She was about to throw her own attack at the group when she was hit again.
ARES
Yeah not gonna happen.
Alti looked to see that Ares had shown up behind her. Then she quickly looked back at Xena, Gabrielle, Luka and Aphrodite just in time to see them vanish. Alti angerly yelled as she turned back towards Ares ready to attack. But didn't get the chance when after swiping Xena's phone off the table next to him, he too popped out. Leaving Alti alone, infuriated and hell bent on revenge.
ALTI
They'll pay for this. All of them. Especially Xena and Gabrielle. The two of them have stood in my way for the last time.
Xena, Gabrielle, Luka, Aphrodite and Ares all popped back into Xena and Gabrielle's living room. Gabrielle handed Luka to Aphrodite as she rushed to Xena who was free of her restraints and laying on the floor. Gabrielle quickly knelt beside her and held Xena's face in her hands.
GABRIELLE
Xena.
Xena Weakly smiled at her.
XENA
(Weakly) Nice one. Even I didn't see that coming.
Xena reached up, took Gabrielle's hand and softly kissed it. Gabrielle sadly smiled as she looked down at the beaten and battered Xena in front of her.
GABRIELLE
I'm just glad we got you back home.
Ares crouched down next to Xena and Gabrielle.
ARES
Wow she really did a number on you.
Xena looked at Ares.
XENA
(Weakly/Joking) I've seen better days that's for sure.
ARES
No kidding. Here let me see what I can do.
Ares held his hands over Xena and used some of his power to try and heal Xena's injuries. Gabrielle shielded her eyes as a bright light came from the god's hands. Ares shut his eyes and focused his power. After a couple minutes Ares abruptly stopped and huffed, feeling exhausted. He caught his breath and looked at Xena who while still pretty injured, looked to be in better shape than she was just a few moments ago.
ARES
Sorry this is the best I can do. My powers aren't quite what they used to be.
XENA
(Joking) Which explains why you spend most your time now in a cushy office and not really doing the whole god of war thing. Well at least we know you're not completely useless.
ARES
(Joking) I'm just gonna pretend that's your way of saying thank you.
Gabrielle smiled at Ares.
GABRIELLE
Thanks Ares.
ARES
Whatever.
Gabrielle looked at Aphrodite.
GABRIELLE
You too Aphrodite. Thank you. I don't know what I would've done without the both of you.
APHRODITE
Hey you know I'd do anything for the two of you.
Aphrodite smiled at Xena.
APHRODITE
Glad to have you back my favorite warrior princess.
XENA
Aphrodite I'm the only "warrior princess" you know. Plus I haven't actually gone by that title in centuries.
APHRODITE
(Shrugging) Oh well. Still counts.
Gabrielle laughed a little as Xena rolled her eyes.
APHRODITE
Anyway sorry I can't fix you up due to my weakned power too.
XENA
It's fine you've already done more than enough. Besides it might take a bit, but I'll be okay.
After making sure Xena was okay and Gabrielle had things handled, Aphrodite and Ares left. Gabrielle put Luka back to bed. Then she helped Xena from the couch where she was sitting to their room. Xena was still hurting as Gabrielle helped slowly ease her down to the bed. She helped get Xena's shoes off and get ready for bed. Then she also got comfortable and slid under the covers as she layed next to Xena. Xena layed on her back as she turned her head and looked at Gabrielle. She could see all the worry and emotional pain in Gabrielle's tired expression that she had endured since she had gone missing. Xena reached over and brushed the side of her face. Once she did, Gabrielle looked at her as she moved closer layed her head on Xena's shoulder as she layed her arm across her and just held her.
GABRIELLE
I really thought I was going to have to watch you die today.
Xena wrapped her arm around Gabrielle.
GABRIELLE
I was so scared I was gonna lose you and there wasn't anything I could do.
XENA
I know. Everything's okay now.
GABRIELLE
So I'm guessing that it's been Alti that's been behind the kidnappings and murders.
XENA
Yeah. Much like Aphrodite and Ares, I guess her powers have gotten weaker too. She said that she's been using human sacrifices to restore her powers. And the reason she wants Luka so badly is because I guess the more innocent and pure the soul of her victims, the more power she gets.
Gabrielle shook her head in disgust and disbelief.
GABRIELLE
Gods. We have to stop her Xena.
XENA
I intend to. She got lucky and snuck up on me this time. But now that I know that she's here and what she's doing. I'm going to do what I thought I did a long time ago.
GABRIELLE
Xena I know exactly how you feel, but right now you need to focus on getting better. We'll get Alti, I know we will.
XENA
Don't worry Gabrielle. I'll rest a bit until I get back on my feet.
Xena looked up at the ceiling.
XENA
And then I'm going to finally put an end to that psychopathic, shaminess bitch once and for all.
A little over two weeks went by after xena had been rescued from Alti's clutches. Dispite not wanting to, Xena stayed home as she heald some more from the injuries she had suffered. Luckily thanks to Ares' powers she healed quite a bit quicker than normal. Plus Xena had always seemed to recover faster than most people anyway. Or as Gabrielle liked to refer to it as another one of Xena's "many skills". Ares was reading through something at his desk when he heard someone walk into his office. He looked up and shook his head.
ARES
You know if you were anyone else I'd tell you to turn right back around and go home.
Xena leaned her shoulder against the doorframe.
XENA
(Sarcasm) Gee I guess it's a good thing I'm not then.
ARES
How ya feeling?
XENA
Little achy, but nothing I can't live with.
ARES
Right. So it's probably safe to assume that you've been doing some digging in your "down time".
XENA
Just a little. But nothing to useful.
ARES
Yeah nothing here either. It looks like Alti's gone quiet. We also haven't had any more disappearances since we got you back.
XENA
And that's what worries me. I get that we know what she's doing now. But there's no way she'd just give up so easily. And the way she was so fixated on getting Luka. I don't like how she's suddenly seems to have disappeared.
ARES
You know that the option for extra protection is still available. Not that I don't know that you're fully capable of protecting what matters to you.
XENA
I appreciate the offer. But I'd rather not expose him to the whole armed guards thing. Poor kids been through enough already.
ARES
Fair enough. Anyway what's the plan now.
XENA
Well with no leads on where Alti could've run off to, unfortunately there really isn't much I can do. I gotta wait until she decides to make her next move.
Ares thought for a moment.
ARES
I know you're not going to like this idea but...
Xena scowled at Ares having already surmised what he was hinting at.
XENA
Ares if you think for one second that I'm going to use that child as bait to lure Alti out, you're as crazy as she is.
Ares raised his hands in a defensive manner.
ARES
Hey it's just an idea. Besides I already knew you'd say no anyway.
XENA
(Irritated tone) Then why bring it up to begin with?
ARES
Just thinking out loud that's all.
XENA
Then maybe you should keep stupid thoughts like that to yourself.
Ares sighed realizing the mistake he had made by voicing that idea to xena. Not that he particularly wanted to put Luke in possible danger anyway. He honestly hadn't fully thought it out before he opened his mouth.
ARES
Look just forget I said anything. We'll find some way to draw Alti out. I'll see if I can come up with anything.
XENA
I'm sure.
Xena left Ares' office and went to her desk. She looked through her files on the case, trying to see if she could think of where Alti could be. It was around noon when as Xena was working, a small bag was placed on her desk. She looked up and smiled.
XENA
(Joking) Oh no I seem to not have any money to pay for my lunch. What ever will I do?
Gabrielle smiled as she leaned down close to Xena's ear.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper Seductively) Don't worry I can think of a few other ways you could pay me.
Xena raised an eyebrow.
XENA
If I wasn't at work right now...
Gabrielle laughed a little as she gave Xena a quick kiss and sat in the chair next to Xena's desk. Xena pulled the sandwich out of the bag and started to eat.
XENA
So where's Luka?
GABRIELLE
Aphrodite's watching him. You find anything new?
XENA
No I've just been going through files all morning and nothings come up.
Gabrielle sighed.
GABRIELLE
I'll just be glad when all this is over.
XENA
I know the feeling.
Xena ate as she worked and chatted with Gabrielle for a bit.
GABRIELLE
I should probably head home.
Gabrielle stood up as Xena smiled up at her.
XENA
I probably won't be home too late. Not much to do here right now anyway.
GABRIELLE
Okay. See you later.
Gabrielle was walking out the precinct when Xena's phone rang. She answered and saw it was Aphrodite.
XENA
Oh Aphrodite, Gabrielle just left, she's on her way back... now.
Xena paused for a moment when she noticed that something didn't look right in the background. Then she saw the saddened look on Aphrodite's face. That was when Xena began to get a terrible feeling.
XENA
Aphrodite where's Luka?
Aphrodite lowered her head as she wiped her eyes.
APHRODITE
Xena I'm so sorry. I tried to fight her off when she showed up but..
XENA
No Luka.
Xena quickly stood up and ran after Gabrielle who was almost out the front door.
She stopped when she heard Xena calling her name and turned around to see Xena running towards her. She saw the look on Xena's face as she got to her.
GABRIELLE
Xena?
Xena held out her phone and Gabrielle saw Aphrodite who looked very upset.
GABRIELLE
Aphrodite what's wrong?
APHRODITE
Not long after you left Alti showed up.
Gabrielle shook her head slowly in disbelief.
GABRIELLE
No..
APHRODITE
I did everything I could to stop her, but she was too powerful.
XENA
(Frustrated tone) Why didn't you just grab Luka and teleport out of there?
APHRODITE
He was playing in the living room and I was grabbing something from the kitchen when Alti showed up. I heard him yell and ran out to see Alti had grabbed him. I threw out some attacks at her but my aim was off because I didn't wanna actually hit Luka. And before I knew it both him and Alti were just gone.
Xena angerly threw her phone. It hit the ground and broke.
XENA
FUCK!
GABRIELLE
No Luka.
Xena looked at Gabrielle seeing the sadness in her eyes.
GABRIELLE
This is all my fault. I never should've left him.
Xena reached out, pulling Gabrielle in as she held her.
XENA
Don't say that Gabrielle. You had no way off knowing that Alti would find out where we live. Plus you left him with a god. You had evey reason to believe that he was safe.
GABRIELLE
She's gonna use him as a sacrifice.
XENA
I won't let that happen. We'll save him.
Over the months since Luka had come into their lives they had gotten very attached to him. They had grown to love him as if he were their own flesh and blood. And with no actual viable family members to step in and take him, the two had begun contemplating the idea of possibly making their current situation permanent. But none of that would matter if Alti succeeded in her evil plan.
XENA
I promise we'll stop Alti and get our boy back. No matter what happens, I'll save Luka.
Following the horrible news that they had received from Aphrodite's phone call, Xena and Gabrielle began to rush outside when Ares walked into the hallway of the police precinct.
ARES
Where are you going?
Xena turned to Ares with a worried expression on her face.
XENA
Aphrodite just called. Alti's got Luka.
ARES
What is her obsession with that kid?
XENA
Don't know and honestly i don't care. But I'm going after her.
Ares walked over to them.
ARES
Here I'll take you both home. It's a lot quicker this way. I'll get your cars later.
Ares put a hand on Xena and Gabrielle's shoulders and then popped the three of them to Xena and Gabrielle's apartment. Once there they all looked at the trashed living room and saw Aphrodite sitting sadly on the couch. Aphrodite looked up when she saw the quick flash of light and saw that Xena,Gabrielle and Ares had appeared. She immediately got up and hurried over to Xena and Gabrielle.
APHRODITE
I'm so sorry. I don't know what to say. I...
Gabrielle hugged Aphrodite.
GABRIELLE
It's okay. It's not your fault. We know that you would never just let something like this happen.
XENA
Gabrielle's right Aphrodite. We don't blame you for this at all. This is all on Alti.
Xena put her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder and looked at her, knowing that she also blamed herself for Luka's kidnapping.
XENA
You hear me. This is strictly Alti's doing. She's the only person to blame here.
Gabrielle put her hand on Xena's as she looked back at her sadly.
XENA
We'll get him back. I'll make sure of it.
Gabrielle slowly nodded slightly. Ares who had been standing there quietly cleared his throat to get the three women's attention as he learned his arm against the wall he was next to and spoke up.
ARES
Okay now that we're all in agreement on who the villan is here, how do we actually go about finding Alti?
Xena, Gabrielle and Aphrodite turned their attention to Ares and the pressing matter at hand.
XENA
Good question.
Xena thought for a moment.
XENA
Giving the fact that she obviously needs to preform some kind of ritual before actually making the sacrifices, we should still have time to stop her. Aphrodite how long ago did she take Luka?
APHRODITE
I called you as soon as Alti left with him.
XENA
Okay so let's just say it's been about ten minutes. Probably less, but just to be safe let's go with that. So there's a good chance that she hasn't gotten the chance to do anything yet.
GABRIELLE
Still we need to act fast Xena. If you're right I doubt it'll take Alti long to set up. And we still don't know where she took Luka.
APHRODITE
Do you think she took him to where she was keeping Xena.
XENA
No Alti's too smart for that. There's no way she'd go back somewhere that she figures we'd check.
APHRODITE
So where would she go?
ARES
Don't know, but we'll find out. I already alerted everyone under my command to start searching. They're combing over the whole city and the outskirts as we speak.
GABRIELLE
When did you do that?
ARES
Hey I wasn't just standing here twittling my thumbs while the three of you were talking. I just made a quick call and everyone should be already on the move. It might not be a litteral battlefield anymore, but I still know how to get people to move when I need to.
XENA
God of war for the win.
APHRODITE
That's my brother for you.
GABRIELLE
Still I don't like the idea of just standing around doing nothing right now.
XENA
I know how you feel. But unfortunately there isn't anything else we can do until we have some kind of lead on Alti's location.
A little latter Ares phone rang. A restless Gabrielle and Xena immediately perked up at the sound. Ares answered. He spoke for a bit as Xena, Gabrielle and Aphrodite eagerly waited to see what was going on. Finally after a minute or so Ares ended the call and looked at the other three in the room.
ARES
We might have something.
Xena, Gabrielle and Aphrodite waited for what Ares had to say.
XENA
(Impatiently) Well.
ARES
One of my guy's may have spotted something strange near the old underground transit station that runs out of the city.
GABRIELLE
That place is like a maze. if thats where Alti has Luka, who knows where they are down there.
XENA
True. But it's the best we've got to go on. Plus what exactly did they mean by "strange"?
ARES
Don't know.
XENA
Well either way I say we go check it out.
Everyone in the group agreed. And a moment later with Ares and Aphrodite using their powers, all four of them disappeared from the living room with a flash. They all soon found themselves standing outside a small boarded up station that led to the underground thrasit that had stopped running years ago. Ares and Aphrodite made sure to have them appear behind a building so no one would just see them pop up out of nowhere. The group walked out from behind the building and the officer that called Ares saw them.
OFFICER
I just called you, how'd you get here so fast?
ARES
(Lying) Luckily we just happened to be nearby and ran over.
OFFICER
Wow not out of breath or anything. You must all be in reality good shape.
Ares looked away slightly.
ARES
(Lying) Sure.
A very worried and impatient Gabrielle injected herself into the conversation.
GABRIELLE
Can you just show us what you found?
OFFICER
Oh yes of course. Apologies. This way.
The officer obviously knew who Ares and Xena were since he worked with them. And Gabrielle was at the office enough with Xena so he somewhat knew her as well. Though he had never seen Aphrodite before, he didn't bother asking who she was, figuring she must've been family or a close friend if she was with them right now. He lead the four of them to a small patch of grass and pointed. As they all looked down, Gabrielle crouched low and picked something up. She looked back at Xena, showing her what she found.
GABRIELLE
It's Luka's.
Xena immediately recognized the item in Gabrielle's hand. It was the small toy that they had given Luka to keep him busy after they found him and brought him back to Xena's office. It had become his favorite and he always kept it with him since. It was fairly old so it wasn't as if there were alot of the same thing just laying around everywhere. And after seeing it every day for months there was no denying that it did indeed belong to Luka. Xena looked at the entrance to the run down station.
XENA
They must be down there.
Xena commended the officer for the help as she and Gabrielle quickly but carefully began venturing down the stairs and into the station. Ares also gave the officer a verbal and literal affirmative pat on the back end told him to stand guard outside. Then Ares and Aphrodite followed Xena and Gabrielle downwards. The group made their way into underground and walked slowly down the corridor. They walked for a while until they came to a point where the tunnel split in two directions.
APHRODITE
Now what?
XENA
We split up.
Xena nodded towards a passage.
XENA
You two take that one and Gabrielle and myself will go this way.
Xena motioned to the other tunnel.
APHRODITE
What if you two find Alti? You can't just take her on like this.
Aphrodite motioned at Xena and Gabrielle. Referring to the fact they were in ordinary clothes and had nothing to use to defend themselves against an attack. Ares smirked.
ARES
I think I can do something about that.
Ares focused for a moment and then snapped his fingers. There was suddenly a small trail of light that made it's way to Xena. As it touched her the clothing she was wearing began to glow. The same happened to Gabrielle. The two looked down as the light got brighter and began to change shape. Then after a moment the light burst into a million tiny particals and disappeared. Xena and Gabrielle looked themselves in a bit of shock. Then at each other and smiled. Aphrodite smiled as well.
APHRODITE
Nice one bro.
ARES
I thought so.
There in the year 3257 stood Xena and Gabrielle in all their ancient hero glory. Of which they hadn't worn in thousands of years. Xena in her complete classic leather armor ensemble. Sword on her back and chakrum on her hip included. And Gabrielle had her red top and skirt along with everything else that went with the particular outfit that she had worn, including her sais
XENA
.(Smirking) Now isn't this a blast from the past.
GABRIELLE
No kidding.
Xena reached back and drew her sword, taking a couple practice swings. Feeling everything instantly coming back to her.
XENA
Oh yeah that's more like it.
Xena and Gabrielle gave Ares a nod thanking him. Then they looked down the tunnel ahead of them.
XENA
You ready Gabrielle?
GABRIELLE
I'm right with you Xena, like always.
Ares and Aphrodite headed down one tunnel as Xena and Gabrielle ventured into the other. Xena stared ahead intensly as Gabrielle marched forward by her side towards their old enemy. To at long last put to rest this ancient evil that they thought had been extinguished all those centuries ago.
XENA
I hope you're ready Alti. Because you're reign of terror on this city and world is finally over. We're coming for you.
Quiet footsteps could be heard as Xena and Gabrielle walked through the old underground transit tunnel of the city. The pair now fully equipped with their ancient outfits and weapons thanks to a little godly magic from Ares, who was in the opposite tunnel with Aphrodite as the four searched for Alti and Luka. The tunnel was long but luckily it wasn't too dark dispite being underground. It was silent as Xena and Gabrielle came to a turn. Xena peeked around the corner and could see a light coming from underneath a door. The both of them moved to the door Xena tried to open it but found it was locked. A moment later Xena and Gabrielle heard a small voice cry out on the other side and immediately recognized it.
GABRIELLE
Luka.
Gabrielle rammed against the door with her shoulder but had no luck opening it. Xena then gently, moved her aside and attempted to kick open the door. But it didn't budge. Xena and Gabrielle looked around them but didn't see anything to either help get it open or a way around the door to get through. Then they heard Luka cry again.
XENA
Together.
Xena and Gabrielle took a few steps back and then they both preceded to run full force into the door with their shoulders, causing it fly open on impact. They stumbled a little inside and quickly caught their balance. They did a quick survey of where they were now. They were up on a platform overlooking a large open space below. It appeared to be an old repair station for the engines that ran through the underground transit. They heard Luka cry again and Gabrielle looked down over the scaffolding, she spotted Alti and Luka down below.
GABRIELLE
Xena down there.
Xena quickly looked over the edge and saw the two below. She yelled as she lept over the metal bar and dropped to the ground beneath.
XENA
Alti!
Alti turned when she heard Xena's voice and saw her land on the ground on the other side of the room. Wasting no time Xena grabbed her chakrum and hurled in at Alti.
XENA
Get away from him!
Alti was forced to back away from Luka who she had strapped to a chair as Xena's chakrum flew her way. Gabrielle who was still above yelled down to Xena and then hopped over the railing as she dropped into Xena's waiting arms below. Xena let Gabrielle down as she caught her chakrum when it made it's way back to her. The usually quiet Luka immediately yelled out when he saw the two women dop from above.
LUKA
Xena, Gabrielle.
Gabrielle smiled back at the boy.
GABRIELLE
It's okay Luka. We're here now and we're not gonna let anything happen to you.
Alti looked at Xena and Gabrielle and smiled an evil grin taking notice of their familiar attire.
ALTI
(Condescending tone) Ah now this brings back some old memories. If it isn't Xena and Gabrielle classic.
Xena and Gabrielle didn't say anything to her as they each drew their weapons and turned their focus on Alti.
XENA
You ready?
GABRIELLE
I've been ready.
Alti smirked.
ALTI
I guess we're getting right to it.
Xena and Gabrielle charged for Alti. Both throwing out an attack as Xena swung her sword and Gabrielle drove her sais towards their opponent. Alti quickly vanished out of the way. Leaving Xena and Gabrielle looking around for her.
GABRIELLE
Where is she?
XENA
Stay ready Gabrielle. You remember how tricky Alti is.
GABRIELLE
I know.
Like lightning Alti quickly ran up behind Gabrielle, grabbed her by the her shoulder and threw her backwards. Gabrielle tumbled back to the ground. Xena hastily swung at Alti. But her sword only met air as Alti vanished again. Uninjured Gabrielle stood. Alti then showed up behind her again but this time Gabrielle was ready as she spun around and attempted to stab Alti who faded out of reach yet again as she laughed. Xena felt a presence behind her and moved out of the way as Alti tried to land another sneak attack. She swung her blade at Alti but her arm was caught. Then with no time to react Xena felt Alti's other hand wrap around her throat and begin to squeeze.
GABRIELLE
Xena!
Gabrielle ran at Alti to free Xena, but was kicked in the stomach and doubled over for a moment. Then Alti brought up her knee and caught Gabrielle in the face. She fell back as she spit some blood from her mouth. But with Alti momentarily distracted she lossened her grip on Xena's neck. As that happened she felt the sharp pain of Xena's elbow connect with the the side of her head and let go. Alti backed away slightly. Xena looked back for a moment, making sure Gabrielle was okay and saw her getting back up as she wiped some blood from her mouth with the back of her hand. Then Xena's focus returned to Alti, but not in time as Alti still had her arm and flipped Xena down to her back. Alti then shot lightening from her hand down at Xena, who rolled out of the way just in time. The bolt struck the floor, scaring it with a burn mark. Xena wasted no time as she swept Alti's feet from under her. However before she hit the floor Alti vanished. Xena stood again as she and Gabrielle stood back to back ready for Alti's next move.
XENA
Come on Alti enough of your games.
ALTI
I don't play games Xena.
Xena looked up hearing Alti's voice coming from above. Her eyes wideed as she saw Alti now standing up on the scaffolding that she and Gabrielle had dropped down from. The metal bar was now in multiple sharp pieces as it floated around Alti.
XENA
Gabrielle take cover.
Gabrielle looked up and saw what Xena was seeing as Alti moved her hand and sent the sharp metal rods down at Xena and Gabrielle. The two ran to take cover. But Gabrielle was hit in the leg. She yelled in pain as she fell to the ground. Xena turned to see Gabrielle on the ground just behind her. However she looked back just in time to see another rod pierce Gabrielle in the back and hear her scream.
XENA
Gabrielle!
Xena ran over to Gabrielle and quickly helped her up to get them both to cover as another rod flew and hit Xena in the back of her shoulder. She yelled and staggered, but didn't go down as she got herself and Gabrielle behind an old transit car. Once behind cover Xena sat Gabrielle down on the floor and pulled the pieces of metal out of her. And Gabrielle got the one out of Xena's shoulder. Luckily they didn't leave too big of wounds, so hopefully they wouldn't bleed too much. However there was no time for Xena and Gabrielle to regroup when Alti appeared in front of them. She laughed menacingly as she approached the two. Xena got to her feet as Gabrielle tried to stand but couldn't on her own and pulled herself up and leaned on Xena for support. Alti stood a couple feet away.
ALTI
Either all those sacrifices really did the trick or after all these years the two of you have lost your touch.
XENA
Scew you.
Gabrielle just stood quietly as she glared fiercely at Alti. Xena and Gabrielle readied their weapons again to continue their fight.
ALTI
You never did know when to quit did you?
Another metal rod rose up behind Alti.
ALTI
I think it's long past time to get rid of the both of you. For good!
Just as Alti finished speaking the metal rod flew right at Gabrielle. Xena knew that with her leg injured Gabrielle couldn't get out of the way and put herself in front of the projectile in an effort to protect her .Xena yelled in pain as the rod pierced through her stomach. But unfortunately Xena stepping in the line of fire wasn't enough to shield Gabrielle. The end of the metal rod passed through Xena and impaled Gabrielle right behind her as well. The two slid down the side of the transit car and slumped over. Gabrielle hung limply against Xena's back as Xena just sat there with her head hung low. Both of them eyes closed and unmoving while Alti evilly chuckled as she watched blood run down the rod and slowly drip on to the ground as the sound of a sad and terrified Luka crying could be heard in the background.
Alti stood looking down at Xena and Gabrielle who sat in a crumbled heap on the ground after she impaled both of them with a metal rod. She let out a satisfied sigh as she turned and walked away back towards Luka.
ALTI
Now that that's taken care of, let's get down to business.
Meanwhile after coming up empty on their end Ares and Aphrodite had gone back to the spot where the tunnel had split.
APHRODITE
Do we go the way Xena and Gabby went?
ARES
No point in just standing around here.
Ares and Aphrodite headed down to path that Xena and Gabrielle took. They walked for a bit until they reached the door that had been busted into. Aphrodite and Ares could hear Luka and Alti as they ran into the room. Alti stood right in front of Luka she picked up a dagger as she prepared to make him a sacrifice to gain more power. The boy stared up at her with a terrified look in his eyes. Being able to do nothing else he cried. Alti raised the dagger above her head ready to drive it down when a fire ball smacked into her and knocked her down. She looked up as Ares and Aphrodite materialized on the ground in front her.
ALTI
What is this?
APHRODITE
Going after a sweet little boy like Luka, that's like totally not cool.
ARES
Yeah even I think that's a really screwed up thing to do.
Alti scowled at the gods.
ALTI
I guess you're here to try and stop me.
ARES
I mean we can't just let you go around killing people.
Alti laughed.
ALTI
You think I'm not aware that like mine all super natural power has been diminishing slowly from the world. And that includes you're godly abilities as well.
ARES
True but I still have enough to beat you.
Ares lit a fire ball in his hand and threw it at Alti who easily knocked it out of the way and sent it into the wall.
ALTI
Pathetic.
Alti launched her own attack at Ares. It was to fast, and being out of combat for a long time it nailed him right in the chest and knocked him down.
APHRODITE
Ares!
Stunned but uninjured Ares sat up and rubbed the spot where he was hit.
ARES
Okay I felt that one.
He stood up and looked down at himself. Then with a snap of his fingers he was suddenly wearing his old school god of war outfit. He stretched out a little feeling far less restricted in his ancient look.
ARES
Oh yeah that's more like it.
Not wanting to be left out Aphrodite decided to change her clothes as well.
APHRODITE
I've always liked this look.
Alti was not amused.
ALTI
I hope you're done with your little fashion show.
ARES
Yup.
Ares quickly sent out a blast towards Alti, who moved out of the way. He threw another and again Alti dodged. Not wanting to drain himself, Ares drew his sword and charged Alti. He swung, she faded out of the way like she had done with Xena and Gabrielle. She appeared behind him but Ares was ready and quickly sidestepped, spun and swung his sword again. Alti vanished before he made contact. Alti appeared again and landed a hit, but Ares also scored one in return. The two staggered back a bit and looked at one another.
ARES
(Smirking) Oh how I've missed actually being in the fight.
ALTI
We'll see how long that enthusiasm lasts.
ARES
I'm just getting warmed up.
The two resumed their battle as Aphrodite spotted Xena and Gabrielle.
APHRODITE
Oh no.
She quickly ran over to them.
APHRODITE
Gabby, Xena.
Gabrielle slowly raised her head.
GABRIELLE
(Weakly) Aphrodite.
Xena looked at her too.
XENA
(Weakly/ Joking) 'Bout time you two showed up.
Aphrodite crouched down and looked at the metal rod that ran through the two. She sighed at the seriousness of the injuries.
APHRODITE
I didn't think I can get you to full strength but I should be able to do something here.
The goddess focused her power as she held out her hands. The metal rod disappeared as bit by bit she closed the wounds left in xena and Gabrielle's midsections by the sharp metal object. Finally after a few minutes Aphrodite dropped her hands as she sighed tiredly. Though still sore Xena and Gabrielle slowly stood with their series wound healed for the most part. They both took Aphrodite's hands and helped the spent goddess stand.
XENA
Thanks you're a real life saver.
GABRIELLE
Literally.
APHRODITE
Sure. After this is over I'm going on a very long vacation.
The three heard Ares groan as Alti landed a good hit on the god. Xena, Gabrielle and Aphrodite ran out into the open and saw Ares on the ground.
APHRODITE
How are we supposed to beat her?
Xena knew that at this point facing Alti straight up like this was not going to work. She had become far too powerful. Xena had to think of some way to stop her. She quickly scanned the area for any ideas.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) How do we beat someone with this much power? What can we use against Alti to stop her?
Alti taunted Ares as she stood over him.
ALTI
My how far the once mighty God of war has fallen. Oh well I've always wanted to kill a God.
Alti armed an attack point blank at Ares. He put out his hand to try and blast her away but nothing happened.
ARES
Damn bad time to run out of power here.
He had tapped out his power for the time being. This was unfortunately a regular occurrence if he, Aphrodite, Alti or any super natural being used their powers to much in a short time. The cause for the loss of magical abilities in the world was unknown. And since not only did it not affect the vast majority of the population, but most didn't even believe such things were real, the issue remained mostly uninvestigated. And thus was the reason for Alti's sick "solution" to at least her problem. She smiled a sinister smile at Ares.
ALTI
(Condescending tone) What's the matter did the mighty God of war run out of fight?
Ares huffed as he raised his sword and began to stand.
ARES
I don't need powers to fight.
ALTI
If you say so.
Alti lifted another piece of metal and threw it at Ares. But before it could reach him something collided with it in mid air and knocked it away. Alti angerly yelled as she looked over to where the projectile came from.
ALTI
Why can't you just stay down?!
Xena scowled at Alti, catching her chakrum as it returned.
XENA
Why can't you stay gone?
Though not fully recovered Xena and Gabrielle stood side by side as they walked over to Ares as he got to his feet. Xena kicked a metal rod tnat Alti hadn't thrown out of her way, briefly glancing down at it as she walked by. Aphrodite walked right behind them. Xena and Gabrielle held their weapons ready.
ALTI
This is just getting ridiculous. Time to end this once and for all.
XENA
You read my mind.
Xena glanced at the other three next to her having just thought of a way to defeat Alti. She discreetly and quickly whispered her idea to the rest of the group.
XENA
Everyone ready?
GABRIELLE
Ready.
ARES
I'm good to go.
XENA
Aphrodite you know what to do?
APHRODITE
I gotcha.
XENA
Good. Let's finish this. Time to get rid of you Alti and this time I'll make sure that there's no coming back.
The group of Xena, Gabrielle, Aphrodite and Ares stood before Alti. The four slowly started to spread out and walk around he. Alti just laughed as she shook her head disappointedly.
ALTI
You can't actually think that just surrounding me like this will do anything.
XENA
I guess we'll find out.
Xena yelled as she ran in and swung her sword, Alti vanished and showed up behind her. But before she could do anything Gabrielle ran at her. Alti dodged. Ares came in from the side landing a blow. Alti staggered back a little and quickly vanished once more. She popped up behind Gabrielle and swung. Sensing Alti behind her Gabrielle ducked, dropping down as she swept Alti's leg. Alti fell and disappeared. Then there was a sudden calm in the fight as Xena, Gabrielle and Ares stood looking for Alti. A moment later she popped back up a few feet in front of them. She stared angerly at them.
XENA
What's the matter Alti having trouble? I guess all those people you killed in the name of power didn't do anything did it? You've just been murdering people for no reason.
ALTI
Is that what you think? I've been going easy on you so far.
Xena smirked.
XENA
(Mocking tone) You hear that she says she's been going easy on us.
GABRIELLE
(Sarcasm) How nice of her.
ALTI
I almost killed you a little bit ago.
XENA
Exactly, almost.
Alti sneered.
ALTI
Then this time I'll make sure I finish the job.
Alti held up her hand and used her power to rip a pipe out of the ceiling and threw it right at Xena. Xena jumped and rolled out of the way as it crashed into the wall behind her.
ARES
Ooo swing and a miss.
Alti looked at him, focused her power and lifted a transit car. She then sent it towards the god. Ares dropped flat to the ground as the car sailed over him and smashed through a pillar and into another wall. Sending chunks of rubble all over.
While all this was happening Aphrodite snuck away from the action. She got over to Luka and held up a finger to her lips implying for him to stay quiet.
APHRODITE
(Whisper) Come on cutie I'm gonna get you somewhere safe.
Luka looked over at the battle going on. Aphrodite looked back for a moment then smiled at him.
APHRODITE
(Whisper) Don't worry they know what they're doing trust me. We'll see them in a little bit.
Aphrodite heard another loud crash as the fight continued. She looked up as she saw some dust fall from above, then looked back at Luka.
APHRODITE
(Whisper) But right now we need to get going.
Aphrodite untied Luka and picked him up. She took one more quick look back and then quietly hurried back the way they came with Luka in her arms.
APHRODITE
(Thinking to herself) You three better meet us outside.
Xena and Gabrielle dove out of the way of another large hunk of metal and concrete that was hurled their way. It smashed through the wall, leaving a massive hole.
ALTI
I will kill all of you.
Xena threw her chakrum at Alti who deflected it, sending the projectile into the ceiling. It struck a pipe making it burst. Water began spraying down as Xena's weapon ricocheted back to her.
XENA
Had enough yet?
Alti just yelled as she used her power to rip the busted out of the ceiling and chucked it at Xena who dodged.
ALTI
I've had enough of this. Time to die.
Alti raised her hands straight up and began to focus her power. The room was suddenly filled with a number of creaking sounds. Rubble began to fall from the ceiling as the whole station began to shake. Alti got a crazed look in her eyes as she stared intensly at Xena.
ALTI
You've tried to stand in my way for the last time Xena. And now I'm going to do what I should've done when I had you in that fun house. I'll kill you. Then I'll take care of Gabrielle, that boy and then this whole damn city.
More rubble fell around them as the ceiling and walls began to crack.
ALTI
And why stop there? Soon this whole miserable world will be mine.
Everything shook as Ares spoke to Xena and Gabrielle.
ARES
Not to state the obvious but we should probably get out of here.
XENA
No not yet.
ALTI
Oh don't tell me that the great Ares is scared.
ARES
Of course not I just don't wanna stand here listening to you much longer.
As much as she wanted to Xena chose not to make a sarcastic comment.
ALTI
Then I guess it's a good thing you'll all be dead soon.
Xena, Gabrielle and Ares looked on as Alti continued to focus her power above. The creeking got louder as more debris felt all around them. Xena looked at the crumbling infrastructure as she assessed the situation.
XENA
Okay now I think it's time to go.
Xena, Gabrielle and Ares began to turn to leave.
ALTI
Oh no I'm afraid it's too late to escape now.
Xena looked back at Alti and smirked.
XENA
You're right it is, for you.
Xena looked up slightly. Wondering what she meant Alti did the same then she saw a large chunk of the ceiling falling towards her. She quickly used her power to send it back up. But her panic and haste caused her to do it to hard. It smashed into the ceiling which triggered the whole thing to begin to rapidly collapse down on her.
ALTI
No!
It happened so fast Alti couldn't move and got buried under rubble and metal. Multiple pipes from the ceiling impaled her as large, heavy chunks of concrete rained down on her. She yelled until a pipe fell and pierced her right through the heart. Alti gasped in agony as she spit up blood. She looked at Xena with a burning hatred as she slowly lowered her head and that was it. Her body faded to just bone as more rubble fell. Breaking and mashing the bones that remained. The ancient sorceress Alti was finally destroyed for good. But there was no time to celebrate as more of the underground station continued to collapse.
XENA
Let's go now!
Xena, Gabrielle and Ares began running towards the entrance. The trio raced through the tunnels as they fell around them. Alti had caused a chain reaction. And now the old decaying structure of the whole area was giving way.
XENA
I don't suppose you can just pop us all out of this.
ARES
You're kidding right. My powers are completely spent from that damn fight. I'll be lucky if I can do anything by next week.
The three dodged falling objects as more debris continued to rain down as they ran.
GABRIELLE
Any ideas Xena?
XENA
Yeah keep running.
Aphrodite stood outside with Luka holding him as she walked back and forth while waiting for Xena, Gabrielle and Ares to come up from below.
APHRODITE
(Thinking to herself) Come on guys. You have to be okay.
Aphrodite stopped pacing when she suddenly felt the ground slightly shake as she heard what sounded like a loud crash and thud coming from the area passed the stairs.
APHRODITE
What was that?
She moved a little closer to try and see when a large cloud of dust came up. She shut her eyes as it passed. Then the goddess realized that something must've happened. She began to get a bad feeling as she stared down into the passage.
APHRODITE
No.
There was a few moments of silence she heard some familiar voices coming her way.
GABRIELLE
Gods that was close. (Cough)
XENA
(Cough) Ugh I'll be cleaning dust out of every crevice for a week.
ARES
(Joking) Oooo there's an image. Oww! Xena your wife just smacked me.
Aphrodite smiled at Luka as she heard the voices get closer.
APHRODITE
Well at least we know their okay.
After a few moments Xena, Gabrielle and Ares walked up the steps and out into the sunlight. Luka squirmed in Aphrodite's arms happy to see Xena and Gabrielle. She handed him to Gabrielle who hugged him close. Xena stood next to her and lovingly stroked his hair as she smiled down at him.
GABRIELLE
Luka I'm so glad you're safe.
XENA
You okay?
LUKA
Mmhm.
XENA
At a boy.
Aphrodite smiled.
APHRODITE
So I take it we won't be seeing anymore of little miss sorceress.
GABRIELLE
No I'm pretty sure Alti's gone for good this time.
XENA
And if she does come back we'll be waiting for her.
ARES
Now if that's not a scary thought I don't know what is.
Luka looked up at Gabrielle.
LUKA
Can we go now?
XENA
Sure. How bout we all go get some dinner how's that sound?
ARES
(Joking) I mean if you're buying.
XENA
(Joking) No one invited you.
Aphrodite laughed as she and Gabrielle who had Luka began to walk away.
GABRIELLE
Hey you two play nice. Now come on let's get cleaned up so we can go eat.
Aphrodite focused enough of her power to bring everyone back to Xena and Gabrielle's apartment.
XENA
Hey easy with that one did you not read the big letters that say "FRAGILE GLASS".
ARES
(Joking) If I knew for sure this was just yours I would've just kicked it down the stairs instead of carrying it.
Gabrielle walked by Xena and Ares as Ares put a box in the back of a large moving truck.
GABRIELLE
(Joking) Good thing you didn't cause then I'd have to kill you.
A few months had gone by since the show down against Alti. As Xena shut the back of the truck. She looked up at the clear, sunny sky.
XENA
Figures it would actually be nice out the day we finaly leave this garage city.
ARES
Leave it to Xena to find a way to complain about good weather.
GABRIELLE
It certainly makes for a good send off.
The three were a bit startled when the truck horn beeped. They looked to see Aphrodite looking out the driver's side window.
APHRODITE
Hey let's get this party on the road.
Ares began making his way over to her.
ARES
Oh no you are not driving. Not with other people on the road.
Xena and Gabrielle smirked as they watched Ares argue with Aphrodite for a few minutes until she gave in and moved to the passengers seat. He shook his head as he climbed in and shut the door.
XENA
(Joking) I told you we should've hired people to do this.
Gabrielle shrugged as she walked towards the steps.
GABRIELLE
Well too late now.
Gabrielle picked up Luka who was waiting on the stairs, put him in the back of Xena's car, buckled him in and shut the door. Then Xena and Gabrielle got in front and drove off with Ares and Aphrodite following in the truck behind them. They drove for a while and followed a road out of the city. After a bit Luka looked up from playing with his toy.
LUKA
Am I gonna like the new house?
GABRIELLE
I think so. You'll have lots of room to run and play. Make new friends. Have your own room.
LUKA
(Ecited tone) Wow. I can't wait to get there.
Gabrielle giggled at the boys excitement. The three drove quietly for a few minutes when Luka asked another question.
LUKA
Does this mean that now I get to stay with you forever?
Xena glanced into the rear view mirror and smiled at Luka.
XENA
That's right little man. You're gonna live with us from now on.
With both of Luka's biological parents being out of the picture and after some careful discussion Xena and Gabrielle had both decided to begin to process of legally adopting him. Luka smiled happily from the back seat.
LUKA
Good I like living with you and mama Gabrielle.
Gabrielle looked at Xena surprised.
GABRIELLE
(Whisper) Did he just call me mama?
Xena smiled.
XENA
Pretty sure he said mama Gabrielle to be precise.
Gabrielle smiled as she turned to look at Luka.
GABRIELLE
Luka is there a reason why you just called me that?
Luka nodded happily.
LUKA
You take care of my like my real mommy did before that mean lady took her away.
Some time ago Xena and Gabrielle had told Luka about Alti killing his birth mother. They were obviously careful to not tell him too much due to his age. They had simply told him something along the lines of the mean lady that took him had hurt his mother and made it so he couldn't see her anymore. But they made sure to reassure him that they made it so the mean lady could never hurt anyone ever again. And that he would always be safe with them. Once he was old enough to understand they would eventually tell him the truth if he asked. But for the time being they decided explaining it this way was for the best. And dispite still missing his birth mother at times, Luka was a fairly happy little boy.
LUKA
So you're mama Gabrielle.
Luka pointed to Xena.
LUKA
And you're mama Xena.
Xena smirked as she shrugged.
XENA
(Thinking to herself) Well that's a simple way to do it.
She then smiled at Luka in the mirror.
GABRIELLE
I like that Luka.
Gabrielle reached back and patted his head as he went back to playing with his toy. So the happy little family and their friends left the city and drove towards their new suburban life. Gabrielle was still gonna do her reporting but for the local news station. Xena decided to take a break from her job at least until Luka went to school then she'd make a decision on what she wanted to do. Though it didn't really matter what either of them did as long as they were doing some good and working towards making the world a better place together they were happy. So whether it was thousands of years ago, the current time they lived in or some far off distant future, no matter what might change one thing that would always remain the same was that whenever there way a cry for a hero, Xena and Gabrielle would be there to change the world.
THE END ❤️
