Hercules had invited Torrin to run laps with him at the stadium. According to Phil, without the supervision of another trusted male in the group, to even things out, Hercules wouldn't be allowed to aid the girls in their search for Zebra's grandfather. It had taken some heavy convincing to even get Phil to lean this far. Luckily, there had been no serious incidents that required the help of a hero, such as himself, and no special appointments that required his attention.
The two men jogged side-by-side. Out of consideration for his friend, Hercules slackened his pace, so not to overwhelm Torrin, who was gasping desperately for oxygen. "So, I was wondering, if you wouldn't mind accompanying us on a scavenger of Thebes." Herc's voice was perfectly even, despite his rigorous exercise. "If you don't, Phil won't permit me to help them. And you know I can't deny a call for help."
Torrin couldn't find enough air to answer. He raised a hand, signifying that he'd had enough and needed to rest. Completely exhausted after 20 laps, which didn't even faze the great hero, he stumbled toward the sidelines. Herc grabbed a refreshing drink of water for the both of them. Torrin graciously accepted his and drank eagerly. Of what remained, he emptied over his hair, the moisture dripping off his dark locks.
"That shouldn't be a problem", he agreed, still breathing heavily. "I'd be glad to come."
Herc smiled gratefully.
"Why would Phil lay on this condition?"
The hero's cheeks glowed red, giving his motives away without speaking a word.
Torrin nodded his understanding. "I see. One of these fair damsels has caught the eye of the great hero..." He playfully nudged his friend. "I suppose my purpose on this outing, is to keep you in line."
"I think that's the general idea according to Phil."
Fishing for further information, Torrin began his interrogation. "So....tell me about this femme fa-tale; how did she manage to steal your heart, right from under your nose? Many have tried, but all have failed to slay your heart."
Herc stared off into space, recalling Meg's lovely face to memory. He could see every feature; her deep violet eyes, the sharp eyebrows, striking lips, and ever flowing Auburn hair. "Where to start...." His voice drifted. "She's as fierce as an Amazon, but without the senseless attitude. She's extremely dedicated, considering what she's done for her friend and my mortal parents. I feel so indebted to her for helping my family."
Torrin watched Herc's love-sick face. Obviously there was no cure for this aliment. Unable to contain the pricking curiosity, he continued to press. "And......what's her friend like? Strictly for curiosity's sake."
"Hmm? What?" Herc was off in La La Land. "Oh, you mean Zebra. She's really lovely too. I really think you'd like her."
Torrin smiled, this planned outing was sounding better and better with each detail.
"As I confirmed before; Count me in!" He showed his dedicated enthusiasm with a thumbs up.
Herc jumped from his seat. "C'mon, let's go run this by Phil." As if by some miracle, Torrin felt re-energized, and trotted after Hercules , heading back home to the Villa.

The Satyr was heavily engaged in his schedule scroll. He rolled over each event; Meetings with kings and royalty here, making dedicatory speeches there. So many appearance, so little time in which to keep them.
He paced the mosaic tiled floor of the common room within the massive Villa. It's pattern depicting Hercules' conquests in stony detail.
Phil stroked his beard, mentally trying to fit it all in the time allotted. He'd just about figured it all out, everything seemed to work in nicely, when the heavy double doors burst forward, granting entrance to Hercules and Torrin. Both were in quite a hurry, and nervously flustered as they quickly slammed the door back into its frame, barricading it closed with their bodies.
Phil glanced up curiously, but without concern. "I see you two got your workout in", the goat-man chuckled.
Fists pounded, with blunt force, on the door from outside, followed by muffled screaming. "HERCULES!!!! HERCULES!!!!"
Approaching the door, Phil waved the terrified men aside. "Get clear, boys. I'll handle this."
Hercules and Torrin scuttled off to find cover.
With them safely hidden, Phil cautiously opened the door a crack, bracing himself for impact. Which, in truth, wouldn't be such a bad thing from his point of view. Struggling to gain access were half a dozen, love-stricken teenage girls, dying to catch a glimpse, or the full package, of the handsome hero. They froze instantly when the goat-man appeared to greet them, extremely dissapointed.
"Alright, alright", he hurriedly shooed them away. "Everyone, clear out! The hero's not about to make an appearance today. So, all of you, GET!"
Whining in protest, they reluctantly retreated. Before they were out of range, Phil left them with his calling card. "But be sure to drop by whey they're not around", he purred after them. The hero trainer's endless chase of females seemed relentless.
He finally slammed the door shut and clapped his hands together, mission accomplished.
Herc poked his head out from behind a large vase, that had served as his hiding place. "Are they gone?"
Phil went back to his scheduling. "Yep. All is well."
Hercules released a long sigh, as if he'd been holding his breath in anticipation.
Hearing the 'all clear', Torrin emerged as well. "That was a close one. Those girls nearly had us."
Herc plopped himself onto a plush couch, emotionally exhausted. He propped his head upon his hand. "Ya know, I can't help but think about what a dramatic turn-around my life has encountered, just within the past three years."
Phil grunted in agreement.
"When I was in High School, no girl ever paid me second glance. Now, they take one look at me and I'm runn'in for my life." He wasn't bragging, it was just the simple truth.
"Just one of the many perks of being a hero", added Phil, not looking up from his paper work.
Herc just shook his head. How was it that every girl in Greece was now vying for his affection except the one he longed to have? He supposed that's what made her, all the more, special. If he ever got the privilege to earn her attention, then that would only make the courtship much sweeter.

These thoughts were dashed as Torrin cleared his throat. "Speaking of which, Herc, didn't you have something to run-by Phil?"
Awakened back to reality, the hero turned to Phil, who met his gaze expectantly. "Um, ya. Phil, you remember the girls staying at my parent's and how they needed help?"
"I suppose I can recall. I also recall that your helping them would depend on your schedule. Which, unfortunately, appears to be booked."
"Wait", interjected Torrin. "Let me see that." He snatched the unraveled scroll from Phil's grasp. The young man studied the dates and times with growing concern. "You bumped up Herc's peace speech, for the rivalry between Athens and Thebes, a week early", he accused, slapping the page with disgust.
"What?!" Herc peered over Torrin's shoulder, confirming this himself. Groaning, he sank further into the cushions of his seat, displeased by what he's read. "Phillll....." He whined. "How could you? You know I haven't finished preparing that speech. There's no way I could be ready within just a few days."
Phil showed no sign of sympathy, shrugging. "I moved things ahead to make room for new events."
"Without consulting me, first?! I'm the one who'll appear, it only makes sense to fill me in on my own life." The hero buried his head in his large hands, the pressure mounting. "This is all I need", he mumbled sarcastically.
It looked like Phil was going to get his way after all.
"I'm just doing what I think is best, looking out for your well being."
"More like trying to avoid a certain situation", Torrin quibbled.
"That's exactly what I'm trying to do", Phil confessed, much to the other's shock that he would even admit it. But there was more to it. "I'm trying to keep you from the receiving end of a blunt stab to the heart." Noting the young men's confusion, he continued. "Don't think I don't know what yer planning. Ya think I was born yesterday?"
Hercules bit back any colorful comments that came to mind, it was startlingly apparent that his age excelled further than one day. But Herc was far too polite to point this out, besides, the consequences of such a slip-up would result in severe punishment.
"Yer trying to turn this scenario into some kind of date. Well let me tell ya somthin' rookie; girls like her are no good, she'd bring you nothin' but trouble."
"Wait a minute, Phil....." Herc became defensive.
"What's hero rule #51?"
Herc sighed, lowered his head and recited the rule committed to memory in monotone. "Never become emotionally involved in a client's business, or the client, for that matter."
Phil nodded. Maybe all that training did pay off. "Words to live by, kid."
"What about rule #88?" the hero challenged. "'Where there is a wrong to be right, he must right that wrong.' Is this not true? Isn't that what you taught me?"
Phil's argument was loosing it's edge. "Well.....yeah. But......"
"Besides, Phil, the sooner we assist these girls in their search, the sooner we'll be rid of them", Torrin said, adding his two cents. "Then Herc's infatuation will eventually dwindle and perish."
"Hey!" Herc argued, mildly insulted. Though is was absolutely true.
Torrin motioned for his friend to calm down and just play along. He was going somewhere with this.
Phil stroked and unraveled the curls in his beard, giving the prospected idea some serious thought. There was logic in Torrin's statement. And the girls seemed eager to be on their way, one of them at least. "Well...maybe we could squeeze them in sometime next week.....But I'd feel a whole lot better if I tagged along."
The young men exchanged a worried glance.
"Oh c'mon, Phil......" Herc whined. "I'm not in training anymore. I perfectly capable of handling missions on my own."
On one last attempt, Torrin threw in; "I swear to you, Phil, everything will be strictly business. That was the whole idea in me going, right?"
"Don't you trust me, Phil?"
The goat-man felt as if he were on trial. Of course he trusted his pupil, it was the girl he didn't trust. Then he groaned. Boy was he turning soft. "Fine. Fine. Next week, you may help those..." He gritted his teeth, as if finishing his sentence would be physically painful. "......girls, in their search." He turned and faced Torrin, searching for reassurance. "Strictly business?"
Herc folded his arms, sulking. He couldn't believe how much of a fuss Phil was making.
"Absolutely", Torrin nodded. "Our purpose is, as always, to help those in need."
Phil felt slightly comforted. Then, to keep Herc's mind else where; "Better get that speech ready, rookie."
"Awww, Phil!"

Word got to Meg and Zebra, via postmaster Pegasus, that they would journey to Thebes within the week. Zebra's excitement could not be bound.
"Think of it, Meg, we're going to tour Thebes, one Greece's great city-states."
Meg rolled her eyes, in her classical fashion. "Zebra, you tend to forget; we LIVED in a big city for years. Remember Pittsburgh? The Three River's Stadium, the U.S. Steel Building? Any of this ring'n a significant bell?"
For a moment, Zebra was struck dumb. To her amazement, she almost HAD forgotten. It just seemed so natural, so meant to be, living within their present time. Her face remained blank as Meg looked on, awaiting her answer.
Zebra scoffed, trying to convince herself as much as her friend of the nonsense in her accusation. "Of course I remember, Meg. I'm just excited, is all. I mean, Thebes is a landmark in history. All our time has to look upon are broken down ruins and chipped away statues. We have the chance of a lifetime to behold these sights within their golden era."
Meg was unenthused, wanting nothing more than to find Julius Sanders, and get outta there. "Whatever."
During these times, Meg felt as if she was loosing touch with her best friend, like she barely knew her anymore. The actual trouble was that they each saw this experience differently. And both were too stubborn to see the other's point of view. And, this made them more alike than they would ever know.

The expected day came all too soon for Meg's comfort. She even approached Alcmene to see if she could conjure up and excuse, through her.
"You're sure you're OK with us BOTH going? What I mean is; as far as I know, we'll be gone the entire day. What about all the chores?"
Alcmene graciously waved her worries away. "Oh, I'm sure one day going un-done, won't make a considerable amount of difference. Besides, you and Zebra have more than earned a leisurely break."
Meg bit her lip. "Are you REALLY sure?"
The old woman chuckled, touched by her concern. (though it was false, mostly) "Yes. Now stop your fretting and get yourself ready. It's deathly cold out, and you'll need to dress appropriately to overcome the elements."
Slouching in defeat, Meg obediently followed Alcmene's counsel.
To the girls surprise, Alcmene produced two beautifully crafted shawls, ones that she'd woven especially for them.
Draping the fabric about her shoulders, Meg snuggled into the warmth the wool provided, her cheek brushing against the soft fibers. "Alcmene, they're wonderful, thank-you."
"No need for thanks, dears. I wish you luck. And I hope you'll both take some time to relax and enjoy yourselves."

Sailing through the late Autumn skies, Hercules gave Pegasus some last minute warning and reproach. He leaned forward on his mount to talk over the wind into Pegasus' perked ear.
"Promise me, Pegasus, I know you're not pleased by this whole thing. But as a special favor to me, promise you'll behave. I'm truly sincere when I said I wanted to help them. But I'd be lying if I didn't confess a special interest in the one girl. So please, my life-long friend?"
The thoroughbred did have some plan of sabotage lodged in his bird-brain. His perceptions of women's interest in his master was very similar to Phil's; No one was worthy of his affections. But Herc had, unfortunately, requested his cooperation. This would be a challenge to the magnificent steed. As would be expected, he was very protective of his master. Reluctantly, snorting through his large nostrils, he agreed, nodding his great head and chirping like a Robin.
Hercules patted the horse's shoulder affectionately, expressing his gratitude and thanks. "Thanks buddy."
Flattening his body against the wind, Pegasus angled his nose down, correcting his altitude, and preparing to land.

Zebra had been anxiously pacing, returning again and again to peer out the window, wanting to be the first to spot the incoming of their flight. In no time at all, a small shape appeared from the sky, growing larger as it came closer.
"They're here!" She announced.
With this news, everyone rushed outside.
Pegasus beat his wings, coming out of a dive, to gently land before an audience.
"Good morning", the hero greeted, leaping off his mount.
In place of his armor, he now sported a long blue tunic, accustomed suitably to the drop in temperature.
Alcmene rushed to his side and drew him into an embrace. "Oh, son, this can't possibly be enough to keep you warm." Playing her part as the concerned parent, she rushed into the house to retrieve some extra clothing. Soon, she returned with a heavy gray cloak, throwing it insistently around Hercules' shoulders.
"Aww Moooom", he moaned, slightly embarrassed that she was making a fuss. "That's really not necessary."
"It's for your own good, son."
"Better listen to your mother", Meg snickered.
That certainly shut him up.
"Thanks Mom. Well, we'd better get going." He returned to Pegasus.
Zebra followed, eager to experience the ride of a lifetime. As she was getting herself acquainted with the winged stallion, whom was enjoying the attention immensely.
Meg took a step back, her stomach coiling into uncomfortable knots. "What? On that?!" Meg pointed to Pegasus. "I think, not."
Herc looked at her quizzically. "Don't worry, he's perfectly tame."
Unconvinced, Meg sank away further, keeping her distance, tasting bile inflaming in her throat. "If it's all the same with you, I'd much prefer to walk."
"It would take you more than a week to arrive in Thebes on foot", Herc chuckled.
Meg stuck out her chin, defiantly. "That suits me fine."
It was Zebra's turn to roll her eyes. Knowing full well Meg's distress. She turned to Hercules and whispered, privately, into his ear. "She's terrified of heights."
"I AM NOT!" Meg insisted, her ears picking up their conversation perfectly. Then more quietly; "It's just a slight case of Acrophobia."
Herc tilted his head in confusion. He knew a bit of Latin, which comes in handy when traveling abroad, and to his translation; Acrophobia meant, fear of heights.
Zebra went to Meg's side, hoping to reason with her. All the time she'd known Meg, She'd always feared high places, though she'd never explained why or how that fear took root. She put a comforting hand on her shoulder and felt a slight tremor vibrating through her friend's body. Her grip tightened, to reassure her, giving her shoulder a squeeze. Zebra's voice was soft and unmocking, hoping to dissipate Meg's reluctance.
"Meg. I need you with me. I know it is difficult, facing your fears. But I'm confident in Hercules and Pegasus' abilities to transport us safely." She eyed the hero to back up her claim.
Herc smiled, saddened to see the fear cloud Meg's Amethyst like eyes. Wanting, more than ever, to protect her from harm. "You could sit between us...." He suggested. "Like a protective barrier. But....if you'd rather remain behind.....I understand."
Meg stared at the hero, taking his statement as a challenge. Call it determination, call it her stubborn pride; but she just wouldn't stand flaking-out in front of a guy. To her, that would only prove what society saw women as; weak and defenseless. Though her fear was still present, a fire lit in her fierce eyes. She stepped forward, unflinching. "Very well. Let's be on our way, then." Facing the beast, the young woman and the stallion eyed one another closely, as if daring the other to make a foolish move. It was obvious that these two loathed each other.
Herc shrugged. "Glad you changed your mind." He moved behind Zebra. "May I?" Offering her a boost.
"Of course."
Putting his hands carefully on either side of her slim waist, he lifted her effortlessly upon Pegasus' back. He then turned to Meg, wondering, with a ray of hope, if she'd allow the same.
Understanding his intentions, she declined. "No, thank-you. I can manage." And to prove so, she gripped the horse's mane and swung a leg over, situating herself in front of Zebra.
She squeezed her friend's shoulder in encouragement.
Meg just swallowed, trying to dislodge the lump forming in her throat. Herc gave his parents a farewell embrace. Then he leaped easily, at the head of the mount.
"Have a good trip!" Alcmene waved.
Meg was about to shout; 'Wait! I've changed my mind!' Until Herc gently kicked his heels into Pegasus' ribs, signaling him to take off.
The horse got a running start, just to make things interesting, then he sprang into the sky, steadily gaining altitude.
Without thinking, and not really caring at the time, Meg threw her arms around the hero's chest as if her life depended upon it, clutching him tightly. With a moan, she buried her head within the folds of his thick cloak. Needless to say, Herc didn't mind this in the least. The next couple of hours might even be enjoyable.
"Ooohhh, what I wouldn't give to have my scooter back", Meg whined.
Confused by her comment, Herc turned to look over his shoulder. "Your what?"
"Nevermind", Zebra giggled. "Private joke."
Soon, they were soaring above the grand City-State. Great buildings reaching out as if to touch Olympus itself.
"We'll be meeting up with a friend of mine when we land", Herc informed his company.
"Great!" Zebra approved. "The more volunteers, the better." She took in the over-head view. This was much more exciting than the Arcadian Agora, Amphitryon took her to. "Wow! It's amazing!" She shook Meg for her attention, whom was still in hiding. "Meg, you've gotta see this."
She shook her head. "I'll see it fine, once we're on solid ground."

Herc planned to rendezvous with Torrin in the outskirts of town, a less populated area was an ideal place to land. After all, the hero and his protege were well known in the city and easily spotted, so they avoided a grand entrance.
Picking them out of the sky, Torrin waved them in. Out of special consideration for a certain passenger, Pegasus, none to gently, touched ground.
Torrin smiled. "Welcome to Thebes."
Herc was about to dis-mount, but Meg was still attached across his back.
Torrin raised a bushy eyebrow. 'I guess Herc has made some progress.'
Reluctantly, Herc gently pried Meg's death grip from around his waist, and hopped down. He became concerned when he beheld the look upon her face; A mixture of horror and a slight shade of green. She swayed uneasily from side-to-side.
"Are you alright, Meg?"
Zebra tried to hold her steady. She finally lost her balance and fell into Herc's waiting arms. When she discovered the predicament she was in, she scrambled free, straightening her skirt. "I'm fine", she insisted, clutching her stomach. "Just a little winded."
Now that Meg had.......dis-mounted, Torrin had a better view of Zebra, and her of him. And neither were disappointed in what they saw.
Herc helped Zebra down.
"Uhh, Herc....", Torrin interrupted. "I do believe a proper introduction is in order....." He glared hard at him.
Getting the message, and rather than being turned to stone from his unmoving gaze, Herc proceeded;
"Torrin, this is Zebra and Megara. Girls, this is my good buddy, Torrin."
Zebra smiled. "Thank-you, for helping us in the continuing search for my grandfather." A blush climbed her cheeks.
Torrin's face was also colored to match. He took her hand. "It's my pleasure......I mean our pleasure. OUR pleasure!"
Herc watched this exchange and wondered to himself, glancing at Meg; 'Do I sound like that?'
Smiling fiercely, Torrin and Zebra continued to behold one another with great interest.
"I have an idea", Meg announced, jumping between the two. "Why don't we get on with our search, eh? The day isn't getting any younger, ya know."
Zebra was a bit upset by Meg's intrusion. But she'd get her way; She would conjure up a way to get Torrin AND put her plan into action. Of course, there was her grandfather to think of, as well. She suddenly felt overwhelmed, taking upon herself so many tasks. Each one seemed of equal importance. Alas, such is the life of an inventor and researcher. She figured she would just have to balance out the formulas, cross her fingers, and pray for a successful outcome, from all parties. "You're right", she agreed. "Time is precious. Let's get going."