Hi guys. I apologize porously. I was working on this too much at work that my production was starting to slide and my boss noticed. I have been working on it in pieces –15 minutes here. 15 minutes there. I would have it done sooner but I got sick for a couple weeks and was pretty out of it for most of those two weeks.
This is the end for this story. It has been a wonderful journey. Thanks so much for sticking around and more importantly, your patience. Thank you a million times over. I hope you enjoy.
The portion of the song Arizona sings is Whiskey in the Jar by The Dubliners.
I own nothing.
A New Journey
"How long do you think she can last?" a concerned Philippus asked. Hippolyta glanced at her companion and gently kissed Philippus' cheek.
"She's survived being impaled. I'm sure Arizona can with stand a sparring session with Artemis," Lyta replied unconvincingly. The two women watched with worried expressions as Artemis advanced upon a haggard looking Arizona.
In the following weeks that Diana and Arizona had spoken, Arizona had taken steps in regaining the faith of the Amazon nation. Arizona had also taken it upon herself, much to the dismay of Diana, Hippolyta and Philippus, to help Artemis.
Alindra had protested citing that Artemis was still very angry. Athena had questioned the rational in putting herself in harm's way again. Arizona was determined to help Artemis one way or the other.
"At the expense of your life!" Alindra blurted one evening. Arizona had hoped that at least Alindra would support her decision.
"Are you mad?" Philippus asked. Athena and Aphrodite stood silently but concern was written clearly all over their faces.
Arizona had to make them understand.
"Please…I have to do this. Epione saved my life. I need to save Artemis," Arizona pleaded. Diana and her mother sighed loudly.
"Child, listen to me," Hippolyta requested softly. She lovingly cupped the sides of Arizona's face as she looked into her daughter in-law's eyes.
"As your mother, I must ask that you reconsider. We just got you back…Diana cannot afford to lose you once more," Hippolyta stated softly. Arizona smiled and covered Hippolyta's hands with her own and gave them a gentle squeeze.
"You won't lose me. I promise."
"Then why do you insist on doing this?" Diana demanded softly. Stepping away from her mother in law, Arizona took Diana into her arms and kissed her gently on the lips.
"Because I've been where Artemis is right now. I had you to bring me back…Artemis doesn't have that. No offence Alindra," Arizona turned and grinned at Alindra who just nodded in understanding.
Turning back to Diana, Arizona whispered softly.
"Artemis needs me, just as I need her…for Epione. Please, let me do this," Arizona pleaded quietly. Arizona rested her forehead against Diana's as she waited. "I will stand by your decision…whatever it is."
Diana could feel Arizona's love for Epione and her loyalty to Artemis. And it was true – Arizona had been in the same black hole Artemis was in not that long ago. Who better to help Artemis navigate through it then Arizona?
Closing her eyes, Diana made her decision.
"Promise me that if it gets too much, you will ask for help," Diana ordered. Arizona nodded. "Then go. Bring Artemis peace. I love you," Diana whispered softly as she kissed Arizona again.
"Damn it Ari…submit," Diana mumbled under her breath. She had been watching from the other end of the training area, arms crossed over her chest. Artemis had knocked Arizona down for what seemed like the billionth time but Arizona stumbled back to her feet only to be viciously thrown to the ground.
Diana could clearly see Arizona wince in pain but never cried out. Diana watched in horror as Artemis lifted her fist to a prone Arizona. The blow would have undoubtedly knocked out anyone but at the last second, Arizona swiftly lifted her shield just as Artemis' fist would have connected with her head.
A loud crack was heard and Artemis howled in pain. She stumbled back grabbing her broken hand. Arizona somehow mustered the strength to get back up only to be tackled by Artemis.
The redhead growled as she startled Arizona and deftly threw punch after punch, ignoring the pain in her broken hand. Much to everyone's horror, Arizona allowed Artemis to pummel her face.
Alindra, having had enough of this marched quickly onto the grounds and shoved Artemis off of Arizona. Diana, Philippus and Hippolyta all ran unto the training grounds to help.
"ENOUGH! I SAID THAT'S ENOUGH!" Alindra shouted. Artemis got to her feet quickly and was ready to pounce when Arizona threw herself into Artemis' arms, preventing the redhead from doing something stupid.
Artemis stumbled slightly as she caught Arizona. When she regained her footing after a second, Artemis shoved Arizona off of her, Alindra catching her quickly before she fell. Diana helped her wife to her feet while Philippus tried to contain Artemis while Hippolyta stood in between them all. The Queen was desperately trying to calm the redhead down.
Arizona was gasping for air, her face badly bruised. Arizona grabbed her mother in law and pulled the Queen behind her as she held her hands up as Artemis advanced on them. Diana moved to shield her mother as Arizona held off Artemis.
"Artemis! STOP! PLEASE!" Arizona pleaded. She had to use all of her strength to hold Artemis at arm's length and to keep the redhead from hurting anyone else. Artemis just ignored her and attempted to shove Arizona out of the way.
"I LOVED HER TOO!" Arizona blurted out loudly. Artemis froze her eyes hardening. Shoving Arizona's hands off of her and in turn knocking Philippus off of her, Artemis turned and stalked away. Alindra just watched as her friend grabbed her gear with her uninjured hand then continued to walk away.
"ARTEMIS!" Arizona called out. She was about to run after her when Alindra caught her arm.
"Leave her. She won't listen," Alindra held on tight as Arizona struggled. The other woman whipped her head around, her eyes hard.
"You promised not to interfere!"
"She was killing you!" Alindra spat. Arizona yanked her arm from Alindra's grip; stumbling slightly. She stalked away from them, headed in the direction where Artemis had disappeared to.
"Arizona! Please! Use your head!" Alindra called out to Arizona's receding back. She would have followed but Aphrodite materialized in front of them, along with Athena.
"Stop."
"No. They are my friends. I can't-"
"You will. They need to work through this. Together," Aphrodite said softly. Her eyes were sad as she spoke. Being the goddess of love, she felt the pure, deep love Arizona and Artemis felt for Epione.
Alindra opened her mouth to speak but Athena stepped forward and placed her hands on Alindra's forearms.
"Please. Do it for me, my love," Athena said softly. Sighing, Alindra nodded.
Diana on the other hand wasn't too eager to let the matter go. Aphrodite picked up on the princess' emotions and shook her head.
"No Diana. None of you must interfere. The bond they share is the only thing that can save them both. You must let this play out," Aphrodite demanded quietly.
Diana pursed her lips, not liking that. Hippolyta could see that Diana was about to thrash the goddess of love and quickly placed a hand on her daughter's arm.
"Diana, please." Before Diana could reply, an amazon messenger skidded to a halt next to them.
"Princess, you have an incoming message," the woman huffed. Diana sighed loudly and eyed the goddess' suspiciously. Aphrodite just arched an eye brow, as if challenging the younger woman.
"Who is it from?"
"Superman."
…
"Diana, it's so good to see you again," Clark said with a gentle smile. He had missed his friend dearly.
Diana closed her eyes as she smiled.
"And you too, Kal. How are things?"
Before Clark could answer, Wally's head poked in from the side, blocking Clark's head.
"Hey Diana! Did ya miss me?"
Diana laughed. Wally had always been a good friend – the kind of friend who'd run head first, without thinking, into any situation if you'd ask him to. Especially if it meant protecting the people he cared about.
"Hello Wally. I did miss you the most," Diana said with a genuine smile on her face. She laughed again as Wally puffed his chest out as he looked at someone off screen.
"See? Told ya I was her favorite!"
"Wally!" Came the sharp warning.
"Hello Bruce," Diana smirked as she watched as Batman grabbed Wally by the arm and dragged him away from the screen.
"Princess." He stopped briefly to give Diana a curt nod then proceeded to 'escort' a protesting Wally out of the room.
"Some things haven't changed," Diana said with a mixture of sadness and relief. Clark watched Diana for a moment.
"And some things have. Diana-"
"Clark, please don't…I'm not ready to come back," Diana pleaded as she shook her head. Clark sighed as he nodded in understanding.
"Just…please think about it at least," Clark countered gently. Diana nodded. Clark smiled as he continued, "I hear congratulations are in order."
Diana arched an eye brow suspiciously.
"Your sister let slip that you…uh…got married," Clark said playfully. Diana rolled her eyes.
"By man's definition, yes, I did."
Clark's grin exploded into a full on smile.
"At least come back for a party. At least let us give you that," Clark said with his boyish charm. Diana sighed.
"I will think about it. Look, I have to go."
Clark nodded.
"We'll talk soon."
Before Clark could sign off, Diana stopped him.
"Clark…I…I missed you too," Diana said softly. Clark smiled lovingly at his friend. He saluted playfully then ended transmission.
Diana stood quietly. She inhaled deeply.
So many things were playing through her mind.
She wanted to go back but her fear had kept her on the island. But on the other hand, Diana had desperately wanted to return if to just see her…friends. She chewed on her lower lip as she contemplated the decision.
…
"It's almost time, isn't it?" Hippolyta murmured sadly.
"We knew this would only be temporary, Lyta," Philippus replied gently. She rolled over onto her side, propped her head onto her hand as she drew Hippolyta closer. Lyta sighed contentedly as she moved closer to her love.
"I wish…"
"So do I Lyta," Philippus finished softly as she smiled.
Diana had mentioned of the League's wishes and how she was pondering going back with Arizona just to visit. As soon as Hippolyta had heard that, she felt her heart begin to crack. Hippolyta wondered where the time had gone. It felt as if it were only yesterday that Diana had been learning to walk.
"We cannot keep her little forever," Philippus said as if reading her Queen's mind. Lyta sighed loudly. Philippus lowered her head to her pillow and smiled as Lyta moved to tuck her head below Philippus' chin. The Queen threw a possessive arm around Philippus' waist drawing the General even closer.
"I'm not going anywhere, your majesty," Philippus chuckled softly.
"Not for very much longer," Hippolyta murmured sleepily. Philippus froze. They had discussed many things since the rebuilding of the island had begun. The one thing Philippus refused to do was let Hippolyta leave her post as Queen which in turn would put Philippus in a difficult position.
"Go to sleep my love," Lyta yawned. "We will argue more tomorrow."
Philippus nodded silently. Content with that, Lyta closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep. The general on the other hand stayed awake for most of the night thinking.
…
"Arizona, please! " Diana pleaded. Arizona had come in not long ago. She was still bruised but the blood had dried. Arizona had been too busy in her quest to help Artemis that she forgot to take care of herself.
Diana had quickly grabbed a face towel and did her best to wipe the crusted blood from her wife's face. The other woman couldn't sit still.
"Will you stop it!" Diana finally demanded and took hold of Arizona's chin and held it in place. She gently wiped away the dirt and blood before releasing Arizona's face.
"Much better, see?" Arizona sighed loudly. Diana grabbed a hand and tugged at it before Arizona fell onto the bed.
"I have to go back out there. I-"
"No you don't! It's late and Artemis is a grown woman," Diana argued. Arizona was about to say something but the look in Diana's eyes stopped her. Instead, Arizona huffed and crossed her arms stubbornly.
Diana shook her head as she slid off the bed and tossed the face towel into the basin.
"You promised me that if it got too much, you'd let us help you," Diana reminded her wife.
"I know," Arizona huffed. She grudgingly plopped down next to Diana who held back a smirk that was fighting to be let loose.
Reaching out and lovingly combing her fingers through Arizona's hair, Diana placed a soft kiss against her wife's cheek.
"Give her a little breathing room. If you want, you can go back out later, but right now, let her cool off. Deal?"
Arizona pursed her lips together, contemplating. Then after a moment, Arizona sighed and nodded. The two sat quietly, listening to the sounds of the sea outside their window. A cool breeze floated through into their room.
"I spoke with Kal," Diana said when the silence became defining. Diana smiled at her wife's confused look. "Superman," Diana clarified with a wink. Realization dawned on Arizona and she nodded.
"And?" Arizona probed gently when it was obvious Diana was not going to elaborate further. She watched as Diana looked longingly out into the open.
"Apparently they want me back…at least to visit," Diana said softly, almost unsure of what she were saying were really true. Diana just continued to stare out the window, analysing everything in her head.
Arizona took this moment to watch Diana, the way her brows creased in the middle when she was deep in thought or worried, or the way her lips parted slightly when a particular emotion became too much to keep inside.
Arizona reached out knowing her touch would be welcomed. She clasped Diana's hands and gave them a loving squeeze. Diana turned and stared at her with hesitant eyes.
"They've always wanted you back Diana," Arizona replied softly. Diana didn't have the courage to hold Arizona's gaze and quickly looked away. She soon felt Arizona's arms slipping around her waist.
"We can stay here for as long as you like," Arizona whispered into Diana's hair. Diana closed her eyes at the tender words. Inhaling deeply, Diana turned around and pressed her lips against Arizona's.
Rubbing her nose against Diana's then smiling as she tried to playfully nip at Diana lips, Arizona rested her forehead against her wife's.
"Don't you want to go back? I'm sure there are many people that miss you?" Diana asked. Arizona smiled.
"I'm sure there are. But my home is where you are. Whether it's here, there…anywhere. Face it, you're stuck with me," Arizona said with a teasing grin. Diana rolled her eyes but smiled at Arizona's attempt to brighten her mood.
Diana reached out to cup Arizona's cheek.
"Get some rest," Diana whispered as she lightly kissed Arizona.
"Promise to wake me up in a couple hours?"
Sighing, Diana nodded.
"Lay with me, honey. You know I sleep better with you next to me," Arizona requested gently. Diana nodded and waited for her wife to scoot higher up in their bed before laying snuggly behind Arizona's warm frame.
Diana lovingly gave Arizona a gentle squeeze before closing her eyes.
"Ow," came the dry, playful tone. Diana couldn't help but snort out a laugh. She drew Arizona closer and the two closed their eyes and slept.
…
As promised, Diana had gently woken Arizona two hours later. Grudgingly getting up and rolling her stiff shoulders, Arizona shook the rest of her sleep.
She felt Diana slide off of the bed and wrap her arms around Arizona from behind. Resting her chin in the crook of Arizona's neck, Diana inhaled deeply her wife's sent.
"Mmmm…" Diana hummed as she gave Arizona a light squeeze. Smiling, Arizona gave Diana's hands a squeeze before stepping out of the embrace.
"As much as I want to stay like that all night, I need to get going before it gets too dark," Arizona said as she walked backwards towards the door. She watched as Diana followed matching her for each step she took.
"I mean it," Diana whispered as she gave her wife a quick squeeze. "If it gets too much, call out for me and I will be there."
Arizona nodded and slipped a hand into Diana's thick locks and drew her close. Diana's eyes fluttered shut as Arizona's lips descended onto hers. The kiss was soft and full of promise.
Breaking away, Arizona took a breath and kissed Diana's forehead before stepping complete away from her.
"I promise." And with a final quick kiss, Arizona exited their room. Diana watched her go, hoping that she would not need to interfere.
…
Arizona had a good idea where she'd find the big red head. Artemis had taken to camping out by the beach area where the thick trees and bush met the sandy beach.
Heading that way, Arizona didn't notice the grumpy god wandering about until she heard her name being called. Turning around, Arizona tried to remember his name but had a hard time.
"Um…can I help you?" Arizona asked cautiously. You can never be too careful when it came to the gods.
"You honestly don't know who I am?" the old man muttered. Arizona just shook her head and waited. Sighing dramatically, the god looked up skywards as if the answer would be found there.
"I am Dionysus, the God of-"
"Oh! The wine guy!"
Dionysus just pursed his lips in annoyance. Placing his hands on his hips, Dionysus just glared at Arizona. When it was obvious Arizona wasn't at all frighten of him, Dionysus sighed loudly and threw his hands up.
"Yes, yes…I am the wine guy," Dionysus muttered sarcastically.
"Uh…you looked a little lost," Arizona stated.
"I am not lost! I am a freakin-you know what? Never mind!" Dionysus threw his hands up in the air in frustration. "Here. Take these." Dionysus shoved two large vats of wine into Arizona's hands.
"What am I supposed to do with these?"
Dionysus just rolled his eyes.
"You'll know what to do with them. And trust me…you'll need 'em," Dionysus replied cryptically. Then turning around and muttering to himself, Dionysus disappeared in a flash.
Arizona looked at the two jugs in her hand before bringing one up to her nose for a sniff. The strong smell almost had Arizona dropping the jug.
Jesus…the smell alone will make anyone drunk, Arizona thought. Shaking her head Arizona made her way to where she knew Artemis was.
…
It didn't take Arizona long to find Artemis. The redhead was sitting on the beach a few feet away from the shore. Arizona took this moment to study her friend.
It was obvious, by the way Artemis held herself, how badly the death of Epione affected her. Arizona wanted nothing more than to bring back the beautiful doctor and to make things right between the two of them.
Sighing heavily, Arizona squared her shoulders and took a calming breath. She knew Artemis would put up a fight but Arizona knew she had to help her friend.
As she drew closer, Arizona cleared her throat. Artemis didn't even blink nor did she turn in Arizona's direction.
"Was not the first beating enough for you?" the redhead spat as Arizona came to a halt next to her.
"Apparently not," then add quickly when she saw Artemis getting ready to move, "but I come bearing gifts. You wouldn't turn down a gift, would you?" Arizona asked as she held up the two large jugs.
"Yes. I would," and with that, Artemis turned her head away bluntly dismissing Arizona's company.
Not one to be easily deterred, Arizona promptly sat down next to Artemis, earning her an evil glare from the redhead.
"Here," Arizona said as she shoved one of the jugs into Artemis' hands, "from Dionysus."
Artemis just stared, confused.
"If you're gonna be miserable, then you can be miserable and drunk," Arizona stated as she uncorked her jug. "Bottom's up." And with that, Arizona proceeded to chug the container's contents.
Artemis just waited and watched. Arizona slammed the jug onto the sand as she swallowed fire. She coughed and sputtered as the liquid burned her insides.
"Jesus! I think I just started growing hair on my chest!" Arizona gasped as she wiped at her mouth. Artemis smirked as she slowly took a swig from her jug. Arizona was right, though. It was strong. The redhead was able to keep the liquid down but she winced as it burned all the way through.
"Ugh!" Artemis coughed and wiped her mouth with the back of her hand. Both women sat quietly staring out at the ocean; the effects of the drink beginning to work its way through their system.
Arizona blinked several times as her vision became hazy. She lifted the jar to her lips and gulped down another swig of alcohol. She was able to keep it down but slammed her eyes shut as the liquid burned once more. Soon, the alcohol started taking its affect.
"Fird time issn't shooo bad…" Artemis slurred. She leaned back as she tilted the bottle back all the way, almost falling back completely. Arizona just watched with dopey eyes as her friend struggled to get back up into a sitting position.
"Isn bad the shecond time," Arizona replied. She was struggling to keep herself upright. She blinked several times to clear her vision.
The two drank in relative silence, both concentrating on downing their drinks. Dionysus stood not too far from them, observing.
"You have to do something," Aphrodite appeared next to him. When the goddess of love first came to him, he scoffed at the idea. But seeing the pair, it only seemed the only thing to do.
"There's nothing I can do! Look at them? Just pitiful!" Dionysus stated.
"Please," Aphrodite pleaded. Sighing, Dionysus lifted a hand and snapped his fingers.
"Those jugs won't run dry. That should loosen up their tongues. That's it…I'm not interfering anymore!" Dionysus said as he disappeared.
Aphrodite whispered her thanks and continued to watch over the two women unnoticed.
…
It had been hours and Artemis and Arizona were keeled over in laughter. The two women weren't sure what they were laughing about, but it seemed funny at that moment.
Artemis took another swig of her jug, almost tripping over her feet. This only made Arizona laugh even harder.
Arizona wiped away the remnants of her drink from her face.
"I hath…it…in *hiccup* control…," Arizona stated as she waved her free hand frantically. Artemis, red faced from laughing so hard, reached out and held on to Arizona as she tried to get herself under control.
"Serioush…serio…really?" Artemis replied incoherently. She was having a hard time trying to keep from falling over. Arizona had the same problem. With every step they took, they both braced themselves against each other to keep from falling.
They struggled up along the beach heading back to the palace. The two continued to drink from their jugs as they went. Arizona begun to hum as they trudged along the shoreline. Soon, she was waving her arms wide as she sang,
"…Musha rin du-rum do du-rum da, Whack fol de daddy-o,
Whack fol de daddy-o, There's whiskey in the jar…"
Artemis had no idea what Arizona was saying but repeated the words as she stumbled alongside her friend. The pair was singing at full volume by the time they hit the palace steps that a few of the palace guards eyed them cautiously.
Arizona tried to climb up the steps but found that her feet were uncoordinated and almost fell flat on her face. Artemis was slow to catch her but pulled her up awkwardly and helped Ari to her feet.
"So good fen Armis. I lof you," Arizona rambled. She threw her arms around the big redhead and patted her back with limp hands. Artemis lightly shoved her friend off of her, the alcohol slowly beginning to wear off.
"You can't keep you head straight when you drink, can you?" Artemis mumbled as she gave her a smirk. Arizona smiled goofily at her friend as she nodded. She reached out with both hands and held Artemis at arm's length as she struggled to focus.
"That…*hiccup*…that's why Epione love you…'cuz you…*hiccup* love her… always," Arizona sputtered. She felt the space around her begin to spin and knew that the alcohol was beginning to wear off.
Artemis stiffened; the playful air disappeared at the mention of her dead wife's name. Artemis tried to pry Arizona's hands lose but she just held on tighter.
"No! You listen!" Arizona demanded as she gave Artemis a little shake. She wasn't going to let go until she said what she had to say. The redhead just glared at the other woman.
Not as intoxicated as before, Arizona managed to focus and clear her head just enough to piece together coherent sentences. She jabbed a finger at Artemis' chest making the bigger woman arch an eyebrow.
"You can't keep *hiccup* doing this." Arizona winced as her words were slightly slurred. "You're gonna have to be *hiccup* better." Those weren't the exact words Arizona wanted to say. She scrunched her face as she tried to form a proper sentence.
"You gonna *hiccup* be happy." When that seemed to appease Arizona, she smiled proudly and nodded happily.
Artemis growled.
"You're a drunken fool! You can barely stand up!" And with a hard shove, Artemis sent Arizona stumbling backwards.
Somehow regaining her balance, Arizona huffed and grabbed Artemis' arm, halting the redhead's getaway. Artemis was surprised with the grip Arizona had her in.
"Shut up and listen!"
Artemis, surprised by the tone, stood silently. Despite the height difference Arizona managed to stand nose to nose with Artemis. She was going to make sure her point was made loud and clear.
"She loved you! You should be proud of it! Women like Epione don't just give their love to undeserving shmucks like us!" By now, Arizona's voice had risen. Diana, the Queen, followed by Philippus joined the small crowed that had formed just outside the palace. Alindra and Athena were there as well.
Artemis realized that they were no longer alone and opened her mouth to say something but Arizona shoved a finger under her nose.
"I said shut up!" Artemis clamped her mouth shut and listened.
Arizona was oblivious to the crowed as she continued her drunken rant.
"Epione…she…she loves you. And that is a gift. Don't throw that away! I don't care if you beat me – I'll keep coming back! I'll knock on your door, I'll follow you to the beach…I'll follow you everywhere! Damn it! I won't let you be a…a…damn jackass and throw it away!"
Artemis stood quietly. Alindra looked silently as she watched her two friends finally come to terms with what had happened to Epione and felt her heart break.
Arizona didn't realize that she had been screaming. Her face was flush and all that effort soon made her head spin. She swayed slightly and Artemis quickly grabbed her arm to keep Arizona from falling.
"If…if you're gonna hit me, do it tomorrow. I'm…kinda dizzy…I…I need to sit down now…," Arizona mumbled. Diana and Athena ran forward just as Arizona's knees gave out.
"I've got you," Diana whispered. Athena helped Diana get the other woman back to the sleeping chambers Diana and Arizona shared. The crowed parted to let them pass.
Artemis continued to stand silently as she watched Arizona go. Alindra stepped forward moving towards her friend. She heard the Queen order everyone return to what they were doing and quickly ushered them away.
"Artemis?" Alindra said softly. She was only a few feet away but she could see the redhead shudder. Slowly, Alindra reached out and touched Artemis' arm. A moment later, Artemis was in her arms, clinging to her, as she wept.
…
Athena and Diana gently helped Arizona into bed. Athena stood back as Diana lovingly removed her wife's boots and socks. Athena smiled gently as she watched the display of affection between the two.
"She will be fine…she'll have a nasty hangover tomorrow but she will be alright," Athena whispered as Diana straightened. The princess smiled as she reached out for a hug from the goddess.
"Thank you. For everything."
Athena smiled at the words then excused herself from the room. Diana watched her go then quickly turned to the sleeping form and sighed.
"You silly woman," Diana whispered as she carefully climbed into bed. She tucked herself behind Arizona and wrapped her arms around her wife's waist. "What will I ever do without you?"
…
Morning came too soon. Artemis winced as the bright sun hit her face. She threw an arm over her eyes and rolled over. She was surprised to see she wasn't alone.
Alindra was asleep lying on her stomach on top of the covers. Sighing, Artemis reached out and gently brushed the hair from her friends' forehead. Artemis pressed a light kiss to her friend's forehead then carefully slipped out of bed.
The smell of food made Artemis' stomach growl. Rubbing her eyes, the red head spied Athena plating some eggs and bacon then setting it to the side.
"How did you sleep?" Athena asked quietly. She hadn't turned around, just continued to scoop eggs and beacon onto another plate.
Still taken back by the sight of the Goddess of Wisdom in a kitchen making breakfast, Artemis was slow to process the question. Seeing the confused expression, Athena smiled as she turned around and handed Artemis a plate. She guided the red head to a chair and motioned for Artemis to eat.
"Cooking helps me think," Athena offered as if that explained it all. "And I found that Alindra enjoys a home cooked meal," Athena added as she turned around again and begun plating a third plate.
As if on cue, Alindra shuffled out of the bedroom, rubbing sleep from her eyes. Her hair was a mess but Athena never saw anything more beautiful than her wife. Artemis had to look away at the expression that had fallen on the Goddess' face. The redhead concentrated on picking at the eggs in front of her.
Alindra caught Athena's eye and smiled as she stretched her arms over her head.
"Good morning love," Alindra whispered as she placed a kiss on Athena's soft lips. Alindra wrapped her arms around Athena's waist and gave a brief squeeze before she let go and turned and stared at her friend.
"How did you sleep?" Athena handed Alindra a plate then picked up her own as the two women sat at the table with Artemis.
Artemis shrugged. She felt her appetite disappearing and another feeling settled in the pit of her stomach. Athena caught Artemis' expression and grabbed the bowl of fresh cut fruit from the counter.
"Here, this might sit better with you." Athena pushed the bowl towards Artemis as the other woman smiled and nodded appreciatively. Alindra grabbed Artemis' plate and dumped the contents onto her own plate.
Athena pursed her lips as she frowned disapprovingly.
"I'll save you some," Alindra said with a grin and a wink. She quickly kissed Athena on the lips before she could say anything.
The three sat in relative silence, content with each other's company.
…
Groaning, Arizona threw an arm over her eyes. Diana shook her head, her hands on her hips.
"And whose fault is it?" Diana had spent almost 20 minutes trying to get Arizona to get up and moving but the other woman just didn't want to.
"Dionysus," Arizona mumbled as she rolled over onto her side, her back towards her wife. Sighing, Diana yanked the bed sheets off of Arizona.
"Hey!" The prone woman turned around and glared at Diana. The princess just arched an eyebrow, daring her wife to say anything.
"Get up."
Arizona responded by giving a grunt and rolling onto her side once again. Diana pursed her lips as she crossed her arms over her chest.
"Alright, you leave me no choice," and with that, Diana walked to the end of the bed closest to Arizona's sleeping form and whacked her wife's backside as hard as she could.
Arizona howled and spun onto her back. Glaring at her wife, Arizona huffed as the pain begun to recede…slightly.
"What the hell! Diana!" Arizona roared. Diana just smirked and arched a delicate eyebrow, arms crossed over her chest. She wasn't fooled.
"All bark sweetheart," Diana said with a sly grin. Arizona scrunched her face but didn't say anything or move. Diana just stared at her wife, sprawled out over their bed. When it was obvious Arizona wasn't going to comply with her earlier request, Diana shook her head and sighed.
"If you insist." Diana moved to the end of the bed. She felt Arizona's eyes follow her every move. She smiled as she stood where Arizona's feet were and before her wife could react, Diana grabbed Arizona's ankle and pulled the other woman forward.
Arizona, caught by surprise, grabbed at the bed sheets as she was dragged to the edge of the bed. Her legs were wide with Diana standing in between them looking down at her.
"Shall I continue?" Diana asked. Arizona conceded defeat and shook her head. "Good. Mother would like meet us in the Great Hall in 10 minutes." With that Diana walked away.
Arizona sighed and ran a hand through her hair. She pulled herself up and untangled herself from the bed sheets. Shaking her head Arizona muttered under her breath as she got ready.
…
"But mother!" Diana protested. Hippolyta shook her head.
"No Diana. You will go back and live your new life with Arizona. You will rejoin the League and you will do what you were created to do – be a leader not just for your sisters, but for all men and women.
"This island will all ways will be your home and your safe place. But I will not let you hide here forever. Face your fear Diana. Face them head on with your wife," Hippolyta demanded gently. She looked over to her daughter in-law and held out a hand. Arizona smiled as she held the Queen's hand.
Hippolyta gently pulled Arizona towards her and kissed the top of Arizona's head. Then lifting a hand, the Queen cupped Arizona's cheek and requested softly, "Give me babies, child. Give me lots of grandbabies!"
Arizona felt herself blush porously but nodded.
"I will definitely try," Arizona said with a grin.
"Mother, what about you?"
Hippolyta smiled as she turned her gaze at her daughter.
"What about me, child?"
"Diana, your mother is capable of running this place without you?" Arizona chimed in gently but seeing her wife's distress, Arizona gathered Diana into her arms and passed a loving kiss on her temple.
"Uh…mother, I think what Diana is trying to say is that you have too many things to oversee. She's just worried you might over work yourself," Donna offered. The younger amazon had transported back to the island when her mother summoned her for this impromptu family meeting.
Hippolyta smiled at her youngest and wrapped an arm around Donna's shoulder.
"I am a very fortunate mother to have not just two but three children who constantly worry about my wellbeing. I have been taking care of this island long before all three of you were born. Never the less, I am very grateful to you all. This brings me to a very important matter. I have been thinking of my place here as Queen."
All three women listened intently at the Queen's proposal. Hippolyta chewed her lip nervously as she waited for her daughter's reactions.
Donna, ever the optimist, smiled brightly and threw her arms around her mother.
"Are you absolutely sure?" She asked, almost childlike. Hippolyta laughed and squeezed her youngest and placed a gentle kiss on her daughters head.
"Yes. Yes I am." Hippolyta then looked over to Diana and Arizona. Her daughter in-law smiled but didn't say anything but Hippolyta felt love and pride radiating from her.
Diana was silent for a moment but then moved to engulf her mother in a tight embrace. Hippolyta felt relief as she returned the hug. Pulling back slightly but not letting her mother go, Diana smiled brightly, tears illuminating her eyes.
"Mother…it is long overdue," Diana said softly. Arizona made her way to the pair and kissed a loving kiss on Diana's temple then on Hippolyta's.
"Now if we can only convince Philippus…," Arizona said with a grin.
"Leave that to me child," Hippolyta said with sly grin.
…
Philippus didn't look happy.
She knew Hippolyta was up to something but she wasn't sure what. Even Donna and Diana were hiding something.
"Philippus, nothing is going on!" Arizona said. Philippus just arched an eyebrow.
"Those three I can understand…but you? I thought you were above all of this!" Philippus grounded out. Arizona just threw her head back and laughed.
Just then, Hippolyta, Donna and Diana all exited the adjacent room with a flourish. Hippolyta, who walked in between her two daughters, wore her most flattering robes. It showed enough skin to make Philippus blush and make her stomach do summersaults.
Donna and Diana wore similar outfits but less revealing. Diana winked at her wife as she passed. Philippus couldn't take her eyes off of Hippolyta. The Queen had difficulty hiding the smile as she passed.
"Arizona, is everything ready?" The Queen asked. Her daughter in-law nodded.
"Yes majesty. Everyone is outside. I believe Ms. Lane will be here shortly. She's also requested an interview afterwards."
Philippus looked from Arizona then to Hippolyta. Realization hit her square in the face.
Quickly stepping in front of her queen, Philippus stopped her by placing her hands on Hippolyta's arms.
"I thought we spoke about this?" Philippus demanded softly. Hippolyta glanced at her daughters. Understanding the silent request, the three women left them alone.
Waiting for the room to empty, Hippolyta returned her gaze to Philippus. She smiled softly as she cupped her love's face.
"We did. And I told you that I had already made up my mind."
Philippus closed her eyes and shook her head.
"No…please," Philippus whispered brokenly. She lowered her head to keep Hippolyta from seeing her tears. Lyta lifted Philippus' head and drew her close.
"It must be done. We both know that it is time for change," Lyta whispered. Philippus pulled back and nodded silently. Lyta leaned in and lovingly kissed Philippus on the lips, soothing her troubled general.
Reluctantly breaking the kiss, Lyta stepped back and took Philippus by the hands and lead her towards the balcony.
"You will lead this nation to great things, Philippus. And I will by your side every step of the way, just as you have been with me."
Philippus regarded this incredible woman before her. She lifted Lyta's hand and placed it over her heart.
"You will always be Queen of this nation…and of my soul," Philippus said sincerely. Lyta gave her a smile that was only meant for her general. It was a promise of eternity.
Diana, Donna and Arizona returned into the room. Following them were Alindra, Athena and Artemis.
Philippus looked over at the trio and sighed. She looked back at Lyta and gave her a teasing grin.
"Those two? Could you not have found someone more…suitable?"
Lyta grinned. "Cheeky." And with that, gave Philippus a quick kiss.
Lyta then looked to her daughters and daughter in-law.
"Ready?" All three nodded. Alindra and Athena got into position as Artemis took hold of the French doors. She took a calming breath and for the brief moment, she wished Epione could have seen her. She would have been so proud.
The thought of her wife made Artemis smile. In the days that had followed since her drunken night with Arizona, Artemis had taken strides in healing her broken soul. There were moments that she fell and each time, she had her friends help her and remind her that she was not alone.
Squaring her shoulders, Artemis pulled back on the doors and quickly stepped aside. Lyta laced her fingers with Philippus' who returned the gesture. They stepped onto the balcony.
And with that a new journey has begun.
…
6 years later…
Opening the hatch, Arizona unbuckled herself and slowly made her way out of the shuttle pod. Once outside the pilot inhaled deeply and stretched her arms and legs, hearing the occasional pop.
"Sitting in a shuttle for 3 hours isn't helping my rickety old bones." Arizona mumbled. She stretched her head from side to side until she heard several pops.
"Well, maybe next time you should let me fly," Wally said as he mimicked Arizona and stretched his arms high above his head and stretched.
"Yeah right! Like hell I will! Last time you flew anything, you crashed it. Bruce nearly left me with the damn bill!" Arizona retorted.
Wally just laughed as he shrugged and walked away. "I tried."
Arizona waved him off and shook her head. Several members of their team exited the shuttle as they spoke quietly of the mission they had just completed. A few waved goodbye as the passed Arizona.
"Hey stranger!"
Arizona nearly jumped at the voice in her ear.
"Damn it Barbara! You wanna give me a heart attack?" Arizona grumbled. The perky computer tech just laughed.
"Sorry about that but I was under strict orders to contact you," Oracle offered. Arizona was about to ask but then saw Huntress and Canary running into the Hangar.
"Another mission?" Arizona asked completely clueless.
"Something like that," Oracle chuckled.
"What are yo-" but before Arizona could finish, Canary grabbed her hand while Huntress gave her a good shove from behind.
"Let's go!" Huntress bellowed
"What the hell-"
"Diana went into labour!" Canary supplied as the two heroes' dragged their friend out of the hangar.
"WHAT!"
…
Diana held on for as long as she could but their baby just wouldn't wait.
"Diana, we can't wai-" the doctor didn't finish since the doors were kicked open.
"I'm here! I'm here!" Arizona huffed as Canary and Huntress shoved her into the room before closing the door.
Wordlessly, Diana held out her hand. Arizona quickly took hold of it and slipped behind her wife and propped her up. The doctor smiled gently.
"Ready?" Both women nodded.
"Ok. Here we go…"
…
Several hours later…
"Let me take a look at her," Hippolyta demanded lovingly. She gently picked up her granddaughter and smiled brightly as the baby flapped her arms at her grandmother.
"Hello my little sun and stars," Lyta whispered as she rubbed her nose against the baby's forehead. She was rewarded with the sweetest giggle. Lyta looked over at her wife and held the baby out to Philippus.
Philippus beamed as Lyta slipped the baby into her arms. She held her face closer as the baby reached out with tiny fists and tried to grab hold of Philippus' cheeks.
"There you go, little one. That's it," Philippus whispered. The baby cooed in response. Artemis lounged around in a chair close to the bed and watched as the newest member of their 'family' was passed around.
She felt a slight pain in her chest as the baby was finally handed to her. For a moment Artemis hesitated but cautiously held her arms out to receive the little bundle. Almost immediately, the baby halted all movement. She was intrigued by the emerald eyes that held her gaze.
Artemis felt her eyes begin to water as she looked down at the child.
"Hello," the red head whispered. The baby continued to stare as her tiny lips formed an 'O'. Slowly, Artemis felt her heart swell as a tiny hand reached out and gently rested on her cheek. Artemis covered the tiny hand with her own.
Every one watched the interaction between the pair. Diana and Arizona smiled knowingly at each other.
"So…we have a name for this adorable little creature?" Alindra asked as she was also taken by Artemis' reaction to the baby.
A bigger smile laced the proud parents' faces. Arizona looked to Diana before setting her gaze onto Artemis.
"I'd like you to meet Epione Philippus Mitchell."
The room fell silent. Arizona held her gaze as Artemis looked up sharply. There was a deep understanding that had passed between the two.
Artemis swallowed the lump that had suddenly formed in her throat.
"Thank you," the red head whispered. Arizona smiled softly and gave a slight nod. Artemis continued to hold the tiny bundle until the doctor came in and informed the group that visiting hours were over.
Everyone moaned and groaned but promised to be back the following day. Artemis was the last to leave but before she stepped out of the room, she turned and hugged Arizona tight. Pulling away, Artemis left quietly shutting the door softly behind her.
Arizona turned and watched as Diana gently tucked their daughter next to her. Diana looked up at that very moment and smiled.
"Any room for me?" Arizona whispered playfully. Diana smiled lovingly and patted the space next to them.
Carefully slipping onto the bed, making sure not to wake her sleeping princess, Arizona got as close as she could. Lying on their sides Diana and Arizona shared a smile.
"I love you," Arizona whispered.
"I'm glad I found you," Diana replied.
Arizona smiled as sleep was slowly claiming her. Diana felt her eyes grow heavy and the last image she saw before she closed her eyes was Arizona and their baby cuddling close.
It was an image that she would hold close to her heart for the rest of her life.
The End