Gabrielle made her way to the bar area feeling very rested. Xena had left a note saying she had gone fishing with Hercules and Iolaus, but Gabrielle had a feeling that was hours ago. As she entered the main body of the inn, she could hear voices, Xena included. The warrior flashed her a smile. "Good afternoon," she said and walked over to the bard and gave her a hug.

"It's not that late is it?" said Gabrielle, concerned.

"Hush up, Xena. Don't listen to her Gabrielle. It's merely mid morning. It's not natural these people who want to get up in the middle of the night to go fishing," said Cyrene, who shot a dirty look at Xena and then guided Gabrielle to a table. Gabrielle sat down and with moments a mug of tea was thrust in front of her by a smiling Epinon.

"You're still thinking about Xena and the contest aren't you?" said Gabrielle and sipped her tea.

Epinon nodded and Xena shot her a look of disgust.

"This is perfect, perfect," came a voice from outside and the door was flung open and Salmoneus came in.

"I have to say that this is so exciting, my dear," Salmoneus walked up to Cyrene and took her hand and kissed it grandly. "It is a show that will be talked about for years, generations in fact. And the fact it is here, will only add legend to this inn."

"What!" exclaimed Xena? "Mother, what is going on?" She looked from her mother to Salmoneus.

"Oh didn't I say, dear? Mr Salmoneus is staging his evening of events here. It is quite a coup, Xena. He had several other premises wanting to host it, but he chose us."

"I bet he did," said Hercules under his breath.

"Mother? You mean that Xena is your daughter?" Salmoneus looked flustered and dabbed his brow with a handkerchief. "You two look like sisters"

Cyrene smiled and looked embarrassed but Xena rolled her eyes and Gabrielle giggled.

There was a knock at the door and then a head popped around. "I was wondering if-"

"Orion!" exclaimed Gabrielle.

Orion walked in the inn, and Gabrielle rose from her chair and approached him. They shook hands awkwardly, laughed and then gave each other a warm hug. Xena watched icily but when Gabrielle turned to her she gave the bard a smile.

"I was told you were here," said Orion happily. He pointed at Gabrielle's stomach. "You've been busy. Congratulations."

"Thank you," said Gabrielle quietly. There was an awkward silence as the Amazons and Xena stared at Orion, who suddenly became very self conscious.

"I was hoping we could go for a drink, if you've got time that is?" he asked nervously.

Gabrielle turned to look at Xena who smiled warmly. "Go. Catch up. I want to keep an eye on the theatre mogul there," and nodded her head towards Salmoneus who was fiddling with the wall decoration much to Cyrene's annoyance.

"Thanks, I won't be long and then I'll help out," Gabrielle said and gave Xena a quick peck on the cheek, turned and took Orion's hand and they left the inn. Xena watched them leave, her face losing her smile and becoming darker and darker. Epinon approached her.

"What's up?" she said.

"I want you to follow them Epinon. And if he tries anything you have my permission to shoot him." Xena's tone was serious and Epinon exchanged a look with Solari who had joined the pair.

"Xena?" asked Epinon. "Is he a threat to Gabrielle?"

"An old flame," Xena growled.

"Oh," said Epinon, and laughed. "Don't worry we will keep the Queen's virtue and honour intact," she added keeping her mouth straight.

Xena turned to look at her and Epinon could see the concern in her eyes. "Xena, she loves you. Blimey, even if Homer himself proposed she'd say no."

"Yeah, maybe," said Xena, regaining some of her humour. "Go on with you, I want to have a word with sycophantic Sal."

The amazons nodded and went to speak with the others.

Xena approached Salmoneus and was joined by Hercules. They both stood watching him fuss around with decorations with hands on hips. Salmoneus turned around and smiled.

"So where are the troupe?" asked Hercules.

"They are coming down from Paraeus. They have finished a most successful run, where apparently they were fabulous."

Xena and Hercules exchanged a look. "So you've not seen it?" Said Xena.

"Well, not, exactly," said Salmoneus. "But Zera, assured-"

"Zera!" exclaimed Xena and Hercules. Xena put her hand to her head and Hercules rubbed his face.

"She's a bigger crook than you are," said Xena.

"Hey," said Salmoneus indigently.

"How much did you pay her?" said Hercules with an amused look on his face?

"Never mind that. How much has it cost my mother?" asked Xena menacingly.

"Nothing, nothing, I promise," said the now sweating Salmoneus waving his hands. "I sold the tickets; she was going to get some of the drinks money."

"WHAT!" yelled Xena? "SOME. Why you-"

Hercules stepped in and pulled Xena back. "Let's see if the troupe turns up."

"Don't hold your breath," said Xena bitterly. "I'm going to find mother," said Xena and stomped towards the kitchen where she had seen her mother disappear.

Hercules and Salmoneus were left alone together as the Amazons had departed too.

"I'll just-"Salmoneus started towards the door.

"No you won't," interrupted Hercules. "You stay here where I can see you. You are not leaving Cyrene to face this all by herself."

Salmoneus sunk into a chair. "Any more thoughts on the biography?" he asked brightly.

"I'm surprised you have time to meet me," said Gabrielle. She sipped her ale.

Orion mirrored her action. "I'm doing a recital this afternoon, but beyond that I thought I'd take it easy and check out all the talent. Sometimes it's nice to take a step back."

"Good call. I'd like to get out and see some bards. Apparently Cyrene has something at the tavern this evening."

Orion smiled politely. "So how are you?" he asked gently. "I thought you and Xena were together."

"We are," said Gabrielle.

"But," Orion pointed at her stomach.

"Oh," said Gabrielle. "I thought you wouldn't notice." They shared a laugh. "It wasn't planned, I was ra-"Gabrielle broke off and looked away.

There was silence. Orion read the distress on Gabrielle's face.

"I'm so sorry," whispered Orion and placed his hand on Gabrielle's.

They sat in silence for several moments. Orion peered into his mug, swallowed and looked up. "I could marry you. If you wanted a father for the baby. I'll take a job at the Academy."

"Oh sweetie," said Gabrielle and cupped his face with her hand. "Thank you. That is so kind. Xena and I, well we're going to raise it."

"Good, I'm glad," said Orion quickly, although his voice was tinged with disappointment.

"No I mean it, thank you. You are going to be such a famous bard, and I am so pleased to have known you," said Gabrielle, picking up her mug.

Orion looked bashful. "Maybe Dad would be proud of me then."

Gabrielle smiled sympathetically. "Still having trouble with him?"

"Yeah, but don't worry. Let's talk about you. Any more adventures? Some of the stuff you written, it's fantastic."

Gabrielle smiled and they continued to talk for several minutes about stories they had heard and shared their knowledge of their mutual friends.

"I better head off now," said Orion, smiling. "I'm over there for the afternoon," he pointed at a large area with a crowd gathering. "I'm surprised Xena didn't join us," he added nervously.

"She didn't, but she sent a squad of Amazons to make sure you behaved."

"Where, where?" asked Orion and stood up and spun around looking for them.

Gabrielle laughed. "Oh they are around." Gabrielle gave Orion's arm a squeeze. "Thank you. It's been wonderful to catch up with you."

"You too." Said Gabrielle and watched as Orion hurried away. She smiled and waddled over to the market stall where the Amazons were browsing.

"Fancy seeing you here, Gabrielle," said Solari, brightly.

"Amazing coincidence," said Gabrielle, drily. "Come on, let's make sure Salmoneus hasn't turned Cyrene's inn into a theme park!"

"So let me get this straight. Salmoneus has made a deal with the biggest crook this side of-"

"Thessaly."

"Athens."

"In the world."

Gabrielle smiled and turned her gaze back to Xena. "They are due to give a performance here, tonight. And the troupe is not here."

"That about wraps it up," said Xena through gritted teeth and turned to Salmoneus and gave him a sneer. Salmoneus dabbed his pale forehead with a now sweat soaked handkerchief.

"But-"he said.

"Grr," said Xena.

"Pay the money back," said Epinon simply.

All eyes turned to Salmoneus. "Well you see, it is not that easy. Business being what it is, cash flow and profit margins-"

"You've spent it," said Iolaus and rolled his eyes.

"Yes," replied Salmoneus. "Maybe your mother could lend me-"

"GRRRR" replied Xena, and Salmoneus paled further.

"Any one got any ideas?"

"Cancel the event?" said Solari.

"I imagine it wasn't cheap," said Xena staring at Salmoneus. "I don't think they'll take too kindly to having it cancelled. And what worries me is what they'll do to Mother's Inn."

"Xena you and your friends can deal with a few rowdy guests. Mr Salmoneus how many tickets did you sell?" asked Cyrene.

"About 150."

There was silence.

Cyrene swallowed. "Anyone got any other ideas?" she said in a high pitched voice.

"Maybe the troupe will turn up?" Said Joxer, hopefully.

"And pigs will fly," said Hercules.

"We do have a bard in our midst," said Salmoneus quickly.

All eyes turned to Gabrielle.

"I-but-I can't-"stammered Gabrielle.

"I am not having Gabrielle put in front of that crowd," said Xena.

"Xena, I'd be fine," said the bard and smiled at Xena.

Xena smiled back, and took her hand. "I don't doubt you could do it, but I'm worried that the crowd may not take to having you instead of a Homeric play. If they've been drinking-I just don't want to put you in that situation."

"There are several of you," said Salmoneus looking around. "And we have a talented, a very talented if I may say so, bard that I am sure can write a play that can rival, no top any play written by Homer."

Gabrielle looked aghast. "You want me to write a play? Now?"

"And you want us to act in it?" said Iolaus aghast.

"You're crazy!"

"I can't believe this!"

"We're not actors, we're fighters."

"Joxer you are a healer, not a fighter," said Gabrielle.

"I meant in general," said Joxer.

"So that's a go-er then," said Salmoneus.

The room erupted in noise again, with everyone talking at once. Unnoticed by many, Falla walked in and spoke to Cyrene quietly. Xena watched with interest and saw the colour drain from her Mother's face.

"Mother, what is it?" Said Xena.

"The crowd has already started to arrive. And there have already been arguments between the sections of Homer's fan club about who gets the best seats." Cyrene slumped into a chair.

"How long have we got?" asked Hercules.

"Not long." Said Salmoneus.

"Just popping out to the-"Gabrielle pointed in the direction of the bathroom and grimaced.

Xena squeezed her hand and the bard left the room.

"We really have to come up with something," said Iolaus. "And quick. There are enough of us, we can think of something."

"So we've come up with…" said Joxer.

"Nothing," chorused everyone else in the room, and sighed.

"We have two of the brightest minds in Greece, and you haven't come up with anything. You have been a disappointment," said Salmoneus.

"That's rich coming from you," said Hercules.

"I still say my idea would work," said Solari huffily.

"No one in their right mind would watch a play about Cats, especially with singing," said Xena with a hint of sarcasm in her voice.

"I thought it was a good idea," said Epinon, rising out of her chair.

"It may have been if we had costumes, a writer, people who could sing and time, but we have none of those," said Xena.

"Well I haven't heard you coming up with any credible ideas. And someone with many skills too," retorted Epinon.

"Girls, girls," said Salmoneus.

"Shut up Sal!" they said to him together. Salmoneus shrugged his shoulders, and tried to creep out of the door.

"Oh no you don't," said Hercules. "That is the fifth time you've tried to sneak out. You have to face the music."

"Shame we haven't any music either," said Iolaus. "I thought Amazons were supposed to be good at drumming."

Xena snorted, and Epinon and Solari both glared at her and were about to open their mouths when Cyrene entered the room looking harried.

"The inn is full. They are getting restless. We need to tell them." She said. "And Xena, do you know where Gabrielle is?"

"She popped to the bathroom. Is she in our room?"

"No I checked," replied her Mother. "She isn't."

Xena looked at Epinon, who immediately exited the room.

"Don't worry Cyrene," said Hercules, and gave the older woman a warm smile.

"I'm sure Salmoneus has a good story to tell," said Iolaus and laughed as the businessman paled.

Epinon rushed back into the room. "The others thought she was with us."

Xena's face became passive but her voice was icy. "So that's another thing to add to drumming that the Amazons are useless at."

"You haven't exactly done a good job at keeping track of her yourself have you Xena?" snapped Solari.

"Please, please. This is not helping," said Cyrene.

"I'm sorry Cyrene. The tension has got to us," said Epinon.

"Sorry Mother," said Xena. "I need to find Gabrielle."

"We'll come, "said Solari, and was gratified to see Xena nod. They trooped out of the room, but suddenly Xena froze and turned her head. "Come on," she said.

They all headed towards the main part of the inn that was full to bursting. Gabrielle was standing on the stage in front of a hushed audience.

"-and I know I'm not the only one who is looking forward to watching the play."

There were lusty cheers and Xena, Salmoneus and Cyrene looked very uncomfortable.

"What are you doing?" whispered Xena.

"Unfortunately the playhouse troupe can't be with us this evening," continued Gabrielle.

This was met by a chorus of boos.

"But instead we have a magnificent bard, who will enthral you with wondrous tales."

"Gabrielle," growled Xena.

"But you don't want me prattling on," said Gabrielle with a smile.

"I love you Gabrielle," came a shout from the crowd.

"You'll get your five dinars later," the bard replied with a laugh.

The crowd murmured, and an object was thrown towards Gabrielle. Xena started to move forwards but felt a large hand on her shoulder stopping her. It was Hercules. She looked at him angrily but he merely pointed to the stage and Xena watched Gabrielle pick up a pair of underpants with a look of horror mixed with amusement.

"Er, thank you. I know you are disappointed," she said to the crowd who were beginning to get restless. "But here is-"she waved her hand triumphantly towards the side of the stage, and the crowd erupted as a bard walked on stage.

"Orion?" said Xena.

"Who?" said Salmoneus? "Who's ever heard of Orion?"

"Gabrielle's ex," said Epinon, still smarting over her heated discussion with Xena. The warrior Princess shot her a menacing look.

"Homer! Homer!" came the chant from the crowd.

"What?" said Xena and everyone standing with her?

"I am pleased to announce Homer will be spending the evening with us," shouted Gabrielle. The crowd's noise gradually subsided, although several of Homer's fans had fainted with the excitement and were being revived by their friends.

"Thank you, Gabrielle." Said Homer warmly, and clapped his hands several times, and the crowd did the same. Homer then grabbed Gabrielle's hand. "As well as being a fantastic bard, Gabrielle has done so much for me."

"I bet she has," whispered Solari to Epinon who snickered. Xena approached Solari and grabbed hold of her leathers. Solari pointed to the stage, and Xena twirled around.

"I'm hoping that Gabrielle will join me later, with a few other friends to talk about our experiences at the Academy." Homer was grinning at Gabrielle. She nodded and the crowd cheered and whooped and she left the stage waving.

Xena let go of Solari's leathers and pushed her way through the crowd. It was almost silent, although Xena could hear some ribald comments about Homer which made her laugh, although one about Gabrielle almost made her change direction and seek out the speaker. She finally reached an ecstatic looking Gabrielle, and grabbed her arm, pulling towards the kitchen area.

They finally reached the relative peace and quiet of the kitchen area. Xena wrapped her arms around Gabrielle and gave her a warm hug.

"Are you ok, Bri?" asked Xena and her eyes scanned Gabrielle.

"I'm fine, although I could use a drink," said Gabrielle, and drew up a stool. "And to get rid of these." She threw the underpants onto the fire, and then sat down, resting her hand on her bump.

Xena found two mugs and poured them both some apple juice. Gabrielle downed hers in two gulps, and Xena gave her the second mug. Gabrielle quickly emptied that mug too and then shut her eyes.

"So your ex is a world renowned bard. Any more secrets?" asked Xena. Gabrielle opened her eyes, as the words were said without humour and the cerulean blue eyes flashed a hint of vulnerability.

Gabrielle inhaled. "He asked me to marry him. So the baby would have a father. I told him no obviously." She smiled.

Xena returned the smile. "He has good taste." She looked down at the floor. "That was kind of him. I'm sure he'd have made a good father."

"Yeah," said Gabrielle and got off of her stool and stood in front of Xena. "You do know that I never gave it a moment's thought, don't you? Don't you? I love you."

"Me too," said Xena. "What you did, what Homer and you have done for Mother. Thank you."

"Glad to help," said Gabrielle and leaned against the Warrior Princess. They stayed like that for several moments.

"Come on," said Xena. "Your public awaits. Who else are coming?"

"Stallonus, Twickenham and Euripides. They weren't doing anything this evening and thought it'd be fun to do something together."

"Thank you," said Xena again and kissed Gabrielle on the forehead.

"So there we have it, what an event, what an evening," shouted Salmoneus over the noisy crowd. "Thanks to Salmoneus productions. Remember autographs will be on sale, ooh" Salmoneus spun around and rubbed the back of his leg where Gabrielle had kicked him. Gabrielle gave him an icy stare. "Of course our wonderful bards will be happy to autograph anything, for free." Salmoneus blushed as he saw a buxom women push through the crowd cradling her assets. "Almost anything," said Salmoneus, nervously. "So let's show our appreciation for the bards."

There was more cheering and clapping and coins were being thrown onto the stage. Salmoneus started to collect some of the coins along side the bards, until he felt a hand on his shoulder. He stood up, turned around and saw Hercules, Xena and Iolaus standing on the stage arms crossed, shaking their heads slowly. Salmoneus gazed sadly at the coins that were disappearing in other people's hands.

"I think my hand is going to fall off if I sign any more signatures," said Stallonus. "I'm so pleased they've all gone."

"Me too," said Homer. "I just wish it was only parchment I had to sign!"

"Well if you are a heart throb," said Euripides teasing. He stood up and walked over to where Gabrielle was sitting, having her shoulders massaged by Xena. The inn was quiet and there were only them left. The amazons were tidying up being helped by Iolaus and Hercules.

"Gabrielle, it has been an honour," he said formally. Gabrielle rose and they shared a warm hug. When they parted, Xena held her hand out, and Euripides shook it.

"Thank you," said Xena. "And remember, if you are ever in Amphipolis, this is your home. Mother insists."

"Thank you. Oh wait," Euripides pulled his bulging money bag from his belt and shook about half of it into his hands. He then walked over to where Cyrene was sitting with Joxer and Asteria and placed all the money on the table. Cyrene looked at him quizzically and then in shock as Stallonus and Homer repeated the gesture.

"I can't take your money, boys," said Cyrene. "I had my best evening in living memory. I don't expect anything from you."

"Fair dues," said Homer. "It's what we usually agree." He turned to face Gabrielle. "Gabrielle, thank you. I haven't enjoyed myself so much in a long time. It was super to catch up."

Gabrielle smiled at him.

"And good luck," he pointed at her bulging bump.

"Thank you Orion," she said and they shared a warm embrace.

The three bards picked up their belongings and made their way to the doors. Salmoneus walked with them. "And remember if ever you need literary agents, I'm your man."

They went out of the inn and Salmoneus looked after them.

"Mr Salmoneus. Here have this," said Cyrene, and gave him a bag full of coins. Xena stared at her, but her glare was met with one of equal ferocity back. "Well, he did help."

"Mmm," said Xena.

"Thank you my dear, and if ever you want to stage another event."

"I don't," said Cyrene firmly.

"She doesn't," said Xena at the same time.

"Well I think I will depart. There is someone I need to see about a wonderful range of cooking products. So I will bid you all a fond farewell."

There were grunts in his direction. Joxer waved enthusiastically, and Iolaus and Hercules exchanged a look and walked with him to the door.

"Bye Salmoneus," said Gabrielle.

"Bye my dear and good luck. Remember Salmoneus has a nice ring for a baby."

Xena rolled her eyes and watched him leave with Hercules and Iolaus.

"Come on, let's head off to bed. We can do the rest of the tidying tomorrow."

Epinon and Solari put down the brooms they were using and smiled.

Cyrene nodded. "Thank you for all your help. I really appreciate it. And Gabrielle-"she walked over to the bard. "Thank you."

The bard smiled. "My pleasure." Xena draped an arm around her shoulders.

"Come on my talented bard, you need your rest." And the pair headed towards the door.

"Night," called Gabrielle