Sorry for the massive delay. I had to deal with my writer's block then I'd been getting sick via my mom – she works with little kids. Anyways, I've been off sick for most of this week so I had the chance to finally finish.

And yes…I have my reasons for ending the chapter the way I did…stick around and you'll find out why (in the next update of course *insert evil laugh*). Rememer there is a method to all my madness...I think...

A/N: For those of you that read the WW comics, there is reference to an event that rocked the comic world. Hope you all catch it - that's my nod to all of you.

Enjoy!

Call to Arms

"It doesn't mean you didn't lover her," Diana said softly. She propped herself up on an elbow and gazed down at the woman lying next to her. The pair decided, after Diana had spent all of Arizona's energy, that it would be best if they took a lazy walk down to the natural spring.

They ended up relaxing in a large open field, just lying next to each other on the grass. They had begun sharing things about themselves about their childhood and past relationships.

Arizona sighed as she rolled onto her side and copied Diana and propped herself on her elbow. She shook her head as she tried to explain to Diana.

"I know…it's just…I…," Arizona struggled to find the right words. "I didn't love her the way she deserved to be loved." Arizona looked away ashamed, only coming to that realization too late.

Diana hated seeing Arizona in pain. She reached out and placed a soft hand on Arizona's cheek. "Arizona…," Diana said softly but the other woman shook her head again.

"No. I should have said something in the beginning but I just…I couldn't! I knew Helen had a crush on me when her brother set us up. I just didn't have the heart to say no. And besides…it was a long time since I had someone love me."

Arizona moved so she was now sitting and drew her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. Diana sat up as well and looked on not knowing what to say to make Arizona feel better about herself.

"When I asked her to marry me, I figured I could grow to love her. I mean, people do it all the time…people have arranged marriages and they end up falling in love down the road," Arizona continued. She felt tears prickle the corners of her eyes but held them at bay. Diana carefully reached out and placed a hand on Arizona's knee in quiet support and waited for her to continue.

"On our honeymoon…oh god…I…afterwards, I knew it was a mistake. But I couldn't tell her…she looked so happy," Arizona said as the tears begun to fall.

"Why would you continue with the marriage when you knew it was a mistake?" Diana asked gently. Arizona rolled her head back and looked up at the sky.

"Because Helen was happy. And her brother was just as happy. And I…I was apart of a family…again." When Arizona looked over at Diana, she could see the confusion in her eyes.

"I'd lost my grandmother and my mother when I was 10. I was 10 years old and I lost my entire family," Arizona shrugged and ran a hand through her hair. "I had a family again when I married Helen. But I didn't feel happy. I thought that if I could make myself love her it would turn out ok. I would be ok."

Arizona turned to look at Diana. Her eyes pleaded with Diana to make her understand.

"For the first few months I pretended to be happy. I'd lie to myself and pretend I was in love with her. But the worst was at night. Some nights we just held each other and before she fell asleep she'd tell me she loved me. Other nights…," Arizona swallowed the lump in her throat and continued on, "other nights…I made myself believe it was what I wanted. But then over time, I couldn't bring myself to touch her that way…not anymore. Pretty soon she and I ended up sleeping in different rooms. We started to drift apart. Whenever her brother was over, we played the part of a happy couple but the second he was gone…then I thought that maybe if we had a baby, maybe that would give us something to hold on to, ya know?

I begged Helen. I think she knew what I was trying to do, but she was a lot smarter and she didn't think it was a good idea. By our first anniversary we barely even knew each other. I promised Helen that if she gave us…me another chance, I'd do my best to make her happy. She said she didn't want me to try to make her happy. That wasn't what being married was about. But for some reason she stayed. I'm not sure why, but she did. It didn't get any better though.

By the second anniversary, she and I never talked. We'd still play the happy couple whenever Doug was around but that's as far as it went. By then we were separated but we lived under the same roof. I remember one afternoon after I came home from the base; she was sitting there, in the living room. She was crying so I tried to comfort her but she wouldn't let me touch her.

She wanted a divorce. I mean, I don't blame her but I thought we could give it one more try. She didn't want to live like that anymore and begged me to just sign the papers. Even after I signed the papers I begged her for one more chance. I think she realized that I had married her so I could have some sort of family again and not because I loved her. I just wanted to be part of a family again so badly and I messed up a very wonderful friendship to get it. God…how pathetic is that?" Arizona asked sounding so disgusted with herself. She covered her face with her hands.

Arizona looked away again not wanting to see Diana's reaction. For her part, Diana sat quietly going over what she was just told. Arizona closed her eyes and felt the tears fall. The two women were quiet for long minutes, both just staring out at the horizon.

When Diana finally spoke, she did so carefully and quietly.

"Sometimes we lose ourselves when we try to hold on to something that means so much to us. We would do anything to keep it from slipping through our fingers, keep it from harm. And in the end, we lose the person we are supposed to be…and hurt the ones we love in the process."

Arizona looked over at Diana who was just staring straight ahead. But her expression was of pure sadness. As if sensing the unspoken question, Diana inhaled and looked back at Arizona with sad eyes.

"I had a…friend. He was a strong man, a good man but he was being manipulated into being someone he wasn't. He began to hurt those around him, people he swore to protect but I knew it wasn't him. I tried to help him but he was too strong for me so I searched for the man that was making him do those things."

Diana tried to convey what she felt, the decision she had to make in hopes that Arizona wouldn't hate her for it.

"I had to make a decision. One that could either save billions or let one evil man live…" Diana paused a moment letting what she said completely sink in before continuing.

"Diana…you had no choi-"

Diana shook her head violently.

"I killed a man, Arizona. I killed the man that was killing my friend. I didn't do it to save everyone else…I did it to save my friend. In the end it didn't matter. Maxwell Lord not only manipulated my friend but he also influenced the rest of the world. What they saw…they all saw me murder a man…they never forgave me."

"Have you tried forgiving yourself?"

Arizona sat silently not really expecting an answer. She slowly began to understand what Diana was trying to say. She reached out and took Diana's hand in hers and spoke softly.

"Diana if you hadn't stopped him, half this world would be in a mess. I don't think that's something you can walk away from."

Arizona looked thoughtful as if trying to remember something then she winced as a sharp pain pierced her head.

"What's wrong?" Diana asked. She was watching the expression on Arizona's face as the other woman grabbed her head.

"I don't know…I'm…I'm ok…" Arizona shook her head a bit to clear her mind. Diana looked on, concerned.

"Maybe we should head back-"

Arizona shook her head.

"No. I said I was ok. I was just…that name, it sounds so familiar." Diana looked confused.

"Maxwell Lord…I know that name. I just can't remember why I know it."

This gave Diana cause for concern. During her time on man's world, her trial had been plastered all over the news – it was hard not to miss it. It wasn't even that long ago, a few years at best.

"Maybe we should speak with Epione. Could be remnants from your crash."

Arizona shook her head again.

"No, it's alright. Just a bad headache," Arizona said with smirk. She leaned in and quickly kissed Diana on the lips. "Let's head back." She helped Diana to her feet and anxiously grabbed Diana's hand. Diana let herself be gently dragged down the hillside by Arizona.

Diana was confused by the quick change and vowed to keep a closer eye on her. She wasn't sure what just happened.

WWWWWWWW

Athena brushed her hands on her thighs as she stood.

"What have you done?"

Sighing, Athena turned around to see Aphrodite standing there.

"What needed to be done," was all Athena offered. She would have brushed past her sister if Aphrodite hadn't grabbed her arm.

"So you decided to physically interfere? What has gotten into you?" Aphrodite demanded.

"WE HAVE NO OTHER OPTIONS!" Athena bellowed. She yanked her arm out of her sister's grasp and took several steps away from her then stopped. She ran a hand through her hair, frustrated, then slowly turned around to look at Aphrodite.

"We have no more time, Aphrodite. Arizona's mind is muddled and is showing affects of Mnemosyne's presence. We can no longer deny what is happening."

Aphrodite nodded but was still upset by what she saw.

"But toying with her mind isn't helping either. Athena, this isn't you," Aphrodite said pleadingly. Athena knew her sister was right.

"I know. But Arizona's time on this island will soon come to an end and she needs to finish what her grandmother started. If she isn't the one to find the Epirus bow first then we are all doomed."

Athena stared at her sister and watched at her shoulders slumped.

"You're right…just…just be careful. The mind is a precious thing. If you push too hard too fast, you'll destroy it," Aphrodite replied softly. Athena nodded and turned to leave but was stopped once more.

"Ares has already taken care of the weaponry and armor – Hephaestus refuses to go against fathers wishes."

Athena inhaled deeply.

"Thank you," Athena said tiredly. And with that, the goddess of wisdom disappeared in a flash. Aphrodite stood alone as she looked out over the city below. She wondered, not for the first time, how everything got so messy, how they got to this point.

The twilight of the gods…maybe it is time, Aphrodite thought sullenly. The goddess shook herself out of her funk and snapped her fingers and disappeared.

WWWWWWWW

"Where have you two been?" Hippolyta asked once she saw the pair making their way towards the palace. Philippus laid a gentle hand on Lyta's shoulder and gave it a light squeeze.

Diana and Arizona looked at each other then looked back at the Queen.

"We were by the springs…just enjoying the day," Diana supplied. Hippolyta pursed her lips before she sighed loudly.

"I'm sorry. It's just that I've had people looking all over for the two of you," Lyta said as she motioned for the pair to follow her. The Queen, Philippus, Diana and Arizona all made their way to Hippolyta's private office.

"Mother what is it?" Diana asked worriedly. Arizona pulled out Diana's chair for her and waited patiently as Diana slid in. Taking the seat next to her Arizona looked from Diana to her mother then to Philippus. The General gave Arizona a reassuring smiled as she stood just behind Hippolyta.

"It seems that a…presence, unknown as of yet, is ready to strike at any moment." Diana and Arizona sat silently.

"Do we know why?" Arizona asked quietly not exactly sure if it was her place to ask. Hippolyta smiled warmly at the young woman.

"No. We have nothing to go on. But that doesn't mean the threat is not credible." Diana was a little hesitant to believe anything…yet.

"Who are we relying on for this information, mother?" Diana asked with a touch of defiance. Hippolyta looked sternly at her daughter.

"I assure you Diana, the Goddess of Wisdom does not take lightly any threat towards those she is charged to protect. I would surly hope you have not forgotten that."

Diana had the graciousness to look slightly chastised.

"I'm sorry mother. I meant no disrespect. But do we have any other information?"

Diana and her mother continued their conversation while Arizona sat back. She tried to concentrate on what was being said but couldn't hold a single thought. Arizona felt her head begin to swim.

She heard voices but couldn't make out what was being said to her.

"Arizona?" Philippus asked slightly concerned. She rounded the table, pulled out Arizona's chair and knelt in front of the woman. Hippolyta came around the other end as Diana reached out and cupped Arizona's cheek.

"Are you alright? Philippus asked. It looked like Arizona was in a daze but what frightened them the most was how pale she had gotten.

The touch of Diana's hand on her cheek seemed to snap Arizona out of it. She blinked several times to clear the fog from her head. She noticed that all three women were staring at her with worry etched in their faces.

Feeling her cheeks burn, Arizona cleared her throat and sat up straighter.

"Um…what I miss?" Arizona asked in embarrassment. Hippolyta hunkered down and gently but firmly took hold of Arizona's chin. She examined the young woman carefully before she spoke.

"Are you alright my child?" Hippolyta couldn't help it, her mother hen instincts kicked in. Arizona could feel her humiliation meter go up a few notches.

Shrugging Arizona smiled awkwardly. Hippolyta looked over to her daughter who was just as concerned.

"Ari, this is the second time that's happened," Diana stated. Hippolyta looked back at Arizona with what could be described as her 'I'm disappointed in you' look.

"You will see Epione at once. Philippus, kindly escort Arizona to the infirmary," Hippolyta ordered as she stood. Philippus stood and nodded.

"Yes your majesty." Placing a gentle hand underneath Arizona's arm pit, Philippus motioned for her to stand.

"I'm fine, really! I don't have to see the doctor," Arizona stammered. Hippolyta, who had been speaking with Diana turned and smiled softly.

"Humour this old woman. Please?" Hippolyta said with a kind grin.

Arizona sighed and nodded in defeat.

"Thank you. Philippus, if Epione gives her the ok, I would like for you to accompany her to Io's. I believe she is due for a fitting of armour."

Philippus nodded and motioned for Arizona to follow.

Once they were gone, Hippolyta turned to her daughter.

"Are you sure she is alright?"

Diana shrugged.

"She had complained about a headache this morning. I'm a little worried." Hippolyta watched her daughter closely. She reached out and squeezed Diana's hand.

"Everything will be alright…I'm sure of it," Hippolyta offered. Diana just looked at her unconvinced.

WWWWWWWW

"You didn't have to do this," Arizona said as she lounged on the bed. The moment Epione had seen her, the physician immediately directed the two women into a room that had MRI machines and other cool gadgets.

Philippus inhaled deeply as she kept her hands behind her back. She grinned as she shook her head.

"I know. But I wanted to." Arizona was saved from replying when Epione came in.

"Well nothing seems to be wrong. I can't find anything." Arizona's smug grin caused Philippus to smile and shake her head while Epione just gave her a look.

"But, I would like to keep you here for more testing." As soon as the doctor said that Arizona's face fell.

"Awww…man," Arizona shoulders slumped. Philippus threw her head back and laughed. Epione held a hand up to stop the protest that was forming on Arizona's lips.

"Just for a day or two. I want to make sure that you are alright. General…really?" Epione gave Philippus an exasperated look as the other woman laughed uncontrollably. Philippus forced herself to calm down and she looked slightly sheepish.

"Sorry," Philippus mumbled.

"Do I really have to stay? I'm supposed to get my armour and stuff," Arizona asked childishly.

Epione just shook her head and threw her hands in the air.

"All you stubborn types! Ugh! Fine! Go! But if you get sent here again, you will do exactly as I say! Am I clear?" Epione demanded.

Arizona nodded sullenly. "Yes, ma'am," she mumbled as she slipped off the bed. Epione crossed her arms as she glared at Philippus. She arched an eyebrow when the General snickered. Philippus quickly nodded when the doctor caught her.

"Good. Now go. Io has been waiting for you." Epione stood aside and watched the two women hurry out. Before they could get far Epione called out, "And find Artemis. You need to train some more Arizona!"

Arizona stifled a groan as Philippus continued to smirk.

WWWWWWWW

The workshop wasn't anything fancy but Io worked with pride. This was her domain. She noticed Philippus and Arizona heading her way and quickly readied all that she would need to create Arizona's armour. Io had to bite back the jealousy she felt when she watched Philippus laugh and playfully slap the other woman's back. Nodding at the two visitor's Io stood and waited. Philippus led Arizona farther into her workshop.

"This is just a general fitting. I will just take your measurements and I will do the rest. You can be on your way soon enough," Io said brusquely. Arizona cleared her throat awkwardly and nodded while Philippus just raised a fine brow. The General felt a little protectiveness wash over her as Io spoke.

"Then I suppose you wouldn't mind if I stayed?" Philippus suggested as she crossed her arms. Arizona felt the mood shift and spoke up before any more shots could be thrown.

"I'll be fine. I can meet up with you once we're done here," Arizona offered. She looked from Io to Philippus then back to Io.

"That is agreeable," Io said not looking up from her work bench. She could care less. Philippus on the other hand didn't want to leave Arizona alone. But before she could voice her opinion, Arizona spoke up quickly.

"Then it's settled. I'll see you in the training grounds Philippus." Arizona made eye contact with the General and made sure the other woman understood. Pursing her lips together, Philippus just nodded. She didn't like it one bit.

"I can guarantee that your armour will be made of the utmost quality the Gods have provided. Don't you agree Io?" Philippus left no room for argument. Philippus made sure the other woman got the point. Io's movement stilled ever so slightly for a split second the resumed its steady flow.

Without missing a beat, Io turned her hammer in her hands and nodded. "Of course." Philippus finally looked over to Arizona and smiled a genuine smile.

"I will see you later." And with that turned on her and left. Arizona clasped her hands in front of her and rocked on her heel. Io just turned and ignored her, continuing with her work. Arizona could feel the chill radiating from the other woman.

"I'm sorry about th-," Arizona started but was cut off.

"I do not need your apology," Io said almost crudely. Arizona blinked but quickly regained her composure.

"Okie dokie," Arizona mumbled under her breath. Io turned abruptly and stood too close for Arizona's liking. Without a word, Io grabbed Arizona's arms and stretched them out to the side roughly. She then took several measurements of Arizona's chest, abdomen, waist, arms and shins.

"You're not one for much conversation," Arizona observed loudly. Io stood from her current position and took the last measurement; wrapping the tape measure around Arizona's head. Once that was done, Io returned to her work bench.

"I have no use for idle conversation," Io replied stiffly. "I have all I need. You may leave," Io said dismissively. Arizona was taken aback by the attitude.

"What the hell is your problem lady?" Arizona demanded. She placed her hands on her hips and waited for Io to turn around. Io stopped what she was doing and stood still then just as quickly she resumed her work.

"I have no 'problem'. Now if you'll excuse me–"

"Most people like speaking to a face rather than a back!" Arizona spat. Io tossed her tool onto the workbench with a loud clatter. Wiping her hands on her apron, Io turned slowly not caring about her visitor. Io raised her hands wide and waited.

"Now that you have my attention, you have nothing to say?" Io spoke with such arrogance that Arizona had to fight the urge to punch the woman. Biting down on her initial reaction, Arizona took a deep breath.

"Was there anything going on between you and Diana?" Arizona needed to know for certain. She watched as Io's stone face turned into a leering smirk.

"Ah…so the outsider does have a spine after all," Io said tauntingly. She crossed her arms over her chest and waited.

"Just answer the damn question!"

"Before or after your arrival?" Io goaded. Arizona clenched her jaw and refused to rise to the bait.

"You know what? I already have my answer." Arizona wasn't going to pick a fight with this woman. Diana chose her and that's all she needed to know. Turning to leave, Arizona didn't have to get very far before Io answered.

"Out of respect for my princes, I will only answer once."

Arizona waited silently.

"No. There never has been. And…never will be. You have my word."

Arizona looked over her shoulder and saw that Io meant every single word. Giving Arizona a slight nod, Io turned back to her workbench and began the prep work for Arizona's armour. Arizona watched for a moment then left quietly.

WWWWWWWW

Once Arizona had left, Io tried to continue her work but she found it hard to do through her tears. She finally had to stop all together and sat down on one of the stools. She felt her heart breaking when she finally realized that she no longer held Diana's heart.

I never did to begin with…Io thought miserably. Out of all of the woman on this island, Diana was the only one who saw past her quiet reserve. Simple Io is what they would all say but Diana knew that Io was so much more.

But that didn't matter anymore. Io would live with that, just as she always had. Wiping her tears Io got up and went back to work. She would be happy for her Diana because she knew that is what Diana would be if roles had been reversed.

WWWWWWWW

Athena watched Arizona walk along the dirt path to the training grounds. The goddess knew that soon, Arizona would leave. Now was the time to plan.

In a flash Athena made herself known to the young woman. Arizona stopped in mid stride and looked a little started at first but quickly bowing awkwardly when she noticed who it was. Athena smiled as she reached out and placed a gentle hand on her shoulder.

"Please…stand."

"Were you looking for Diana? I think she's with her mother-" Arizona said as she straightened herself up. She stopped as she watched Athena shake her head.

"Actually, I wanted to talk to you," Athena said with a smile. She placed an arm around Arizona's shoulders.

"Me?" Athena nodded.

"Walk with me. I will explain everything…"

WWWWWWWW