Author's Notes: I own nothing!
Author's Notes A: I really want to thank everyone who took time to review, it meant a lot. I know I have left you all hanging, but I just didn't quite know how I wanted to end this. Actually still do not, but thought I would get this chapter out.
Chapter 4
It took about another candle mark to reach the village. When the convoy stopped, Xena was able to remove herself from her daughter and soul mate and organize the entrance back to the village.
" Mariska, you will escort the Queen in just in case. Sarah, I need you to go the back way to the healers hut and give her notice that we will be heading there. Give her a quick rundown of what to expect. Ephiny, gather horses for the both of us and one for Gabrielle and Sam to share. Just go with it, it's my compromise." As everyone runs off to their tasks, Xena continued to organize the procession in, if there was one thing she had learned in all their years in the Amazon village, it was that tradition and fanfare was a must. Walking back to the wagon carrying the two most important people in her life, Xena calms herself, knowing that Gabrielle will be able to sense her emotions, as she is able to sense Gabrielle's. As their time together grew in years, they developed this ability to pick up on each other's intense feelings, and Xena was not in the least bit of control of her emotions right now. She feels she has better control of her emotions as Ephiny appears to let her know everything is ready, horses in tow. Xena peaks into the wagon and sees that both Sam and Gabrielle are resting, pondering for a moment just how much trouble she would be in if she didn't wake Gabriel, she barely finishes that thought "Xena, we here?" "Yes my love, everything is ready, I have everyone gathering near the healers hut, you can ride in, wave to everyone then get looked at by the healer. When you are ready, Ephiny will help you out, I will get Sam." Gabrielle looks at Xena, trying to read her, having prepared for another argument about this. Ephiny for her part, looks like she knows nothing more and patiently awaits the Queen. Gabrielle takes a breath and struggles to sit up, trying desperately to not show any signs that this task is almost impossible for her to accomplish. "Ephiny, can you make sure everything is ready and ensure that we have some privacy?"
Taking a moment to unhide her emotions, Xena kneels in front of Gabrielle and holds her hands "Bri, I am not a fan of this idea, and I know that no one will think any less of you, but I do understand the need to show strength. The God's know I have pulled this same move a time or two before, and I know you have some Amazons who would pounce on a chance to see you injured, but the ones that respect, admire, and adore you far outnumber those that wish to wear your crown. Let me help you right now, so you can show strength later." Xena pulls Gabrielle up, slides her forward and guides her to a standing position, never loosening her hold upon Gabrielle. As Gabrielle stands, steadies herself, she slides her arm behind Xena's waste. Together they walk towards the horse Ephiny has for her. Xena gently lifts Gabrielle up to the horse placing her injured leg in the stirrup, allowing Gabrielle to swing the other leg over the horse and sitting on the horse. She steadies herself with her good arm, taking a deep breath and gathers herself, transforming into "Queen" mode. While Gabrielle is getting herself ready, Xena returns to the wagon to gather Sam "Sam, I need a favor, when you go out there, ask your mom to ride in with her." "Of course, General." "Sam, I am asking this as your mother, nothing more." What am I going to do with you both? She thinks to herself
Sam approaches the horses, her arm in a sling, some minor cuts and bruises, but fairing much better than Gabrielle. "My queen, may I escort you on your horse into the village" Gabrielle gives her a puzzled look. "It is just that it is completely customary for the princess to be escorted in by the Queen after a battle, to show a more unified front." Sensing her mother's distrust "I would also like to ensure that I fulfill my duty of protecting the queen." Still not getting anywhere with Gabrielle, Sam looks away for a second, turns back to Gabrielle her face softened "Look Mom, I overheard you and mother and know why you need to do this, but I also know that this is not going to be easy on yourself, so please let me help you." Gabrielle nods for Sam to join her, once Sam is on the horse, Gabrielle leans back into Sam to relieve some of the strain, but also whispers "Thank you" before directing the horse to begin the procession.