Author's Note Okay, Two things. The first one is to any Gabrielle fans who read this, I am sorry about a comment that I put in this story. I couldn't help myself, the comment really annoys my sister because she a huge Gabrielle fan and it is really fun to annoy my sister! The second thing is directed to anyone who wants to know what Ares plan for Atrius was, I just thought that I would warn you that the next chapter is where things get messed up and Ares never gets to reveal his plan. I am so sorry about that, but it works out better for the end of my story. Okay, that's all. You can read the story now!

Secrets of the Past

DDR

Xena and Gabrielle approached the palace. It was dark now and the torches outside the doors were lit. Xena was carrying the rabbits and doe. Xena saw Gabrielle's expression when she realized that this was where Xena was staying, it was one of shock and amazement.

"This is where you're living?" Gabrielle asked.

Xena set the animals down and pulled open the doors.

"For now."

The sound of a baby screaming flooded the women's ears. It echoed throughout the palace making it twice as loud. Xena's maternal instincts kicked in. As they wandered into the main hall they saw Ares pacing back and forth with the baby, he was singing to him, but Atrius wasn't buying it. Xena went over to them.

"Xena!" Ares exclaimed, obviously thankful that she was back. "He's been crying for over an hour!"

Xena took the baby. "Shh… Atrius. It's okay, mommy's home." She said as walked around jiggling the baby, who was starting to calm. Gabrielle smiled as she watched her.

"Hello Gabrielle." Ares said

Gabrielle looked at him questioningly

"How do you kn--"

"I'm the god of war. I would know your name."

Gabrielle laughed "You're the God of War! You're Ares?"

Ares looked rather offended. Xena had to focus all her energy into controlling herself at not laughing..

"Yes, I'm Ares." Said Ares, giving her a stale look. Gabrielle smiled, strangely unintimidated.

"Ares, Gabrielle is going to stay here tonight. The food is outside, When do you think dinner will be ready?"

Ares scowled. Xena knew that he wasn't really mad at Gabrielle. Knowing him, her attitude probably turn him on. She also knew that Ares was losing his touch, after all he didn't want to play war god anymore.

"Soon." He replied "You can stay in the chamber across the corridor from Xena's" Gabrielle nodded

"Um, I think that I'm going to go to my chamber and feed Atrius, He looks hungry." Xena said readjusting the baby

"I'll let you know when dinner's ready." said Ares.

Xena looked at Gabrielle

"I'll show you to your chamber."

Then Xena turned and headed off, Gabrielle behind her.

As they walked down the corridor Gabrielle chatted. It didn't matter what life they were in Gabby was always The Babbling Bard of Potedia.

"I think it's pretty cool the way that you talk to Ares as if he were just another mortal."

Xena smiled and shook her head.

"That's the only way he's ever listened to me."

"Do you two have a long history?"

Xena rolled her eyes.

"A very long history, too long."

"Like… a romantic history?" Now Gabby was prying.

Xena saw nothing to hide though.

"Well, he lusts after me, because I use to lust after war, and things got tangled and mixed up. And now, well, lets just say, that this is our son, and he still lusts after me."

They approached Xena's chamber and the one across the corridor from it.

"Well, do you love him?" Gabrielle asked curiously.

Xena was silent. Truthfully, she just didn't know how she was suppose to feel anymore.

"Here we are. I'll be across the hall and Ares is at the end of the hall if you need anything."

Gabrielle was still looking at her curiously. Xena readjusted the baby, crossed to her door and entered. The door clicked shut behind her.

Gabrielle wasn't sure why, but she felt like she had known Xena forever.

DDR