CHAPTER 8: OUT WITH THE OLD, IN WITH THE NEW

Gabrielle had an idea recently that would probably test Xena's patience a bit. She had noticed Xena being a bit absent minded and having a bit of "deer in the way of a stampede" look when she stole glances at her friend. She chalked it up to Xena worrying about if enemies would see them settled and come for revenge. Gabrielle thought it a perfect idea to go shopping in the market for a change of wardrobe. Hopefully it would decrease the possibility that they would be calling attention to themselves.

When she had suggested it this morning, Xena was a bit perturbed with the idea of donning anything less than her armor. "Please give it a chance? You can always wear your armor anytime we get on the road for travel." Gabrielle offered. Xena saw the hope in Gabrielle's face and didn't have the heart to turn her down. "Sure, anything for you snooky wookums!" She laughed boisterously as she pinched Gabrielle's cheeks and squeezed, as she has done many a time with Eve's baby cheeks. "Very funny Xena," Gabrielle scowled. Xena can sure be irritating when she wants to be.

As they walked in the market, eyes turned to the spectacle of their beauty and strength. "So much for laying low. I'm starting to understand why you might think it would be good to make a wardrobe change." Xena admitted. "Yeah, plus I get to go shopping!" Gabrielle enthusiastically chimed in. "You know Xena, this settling down business has been great so far. All the time that we get to spend together. I feel care free. Not having to save people or find something to eat. I have to admit, its nice." Gabrielle soaked in the scenery. "Well, of course I made a good decision Gabrielle, I have many skills." Xena smirked in retort. Gabrielle, who couldn't stand her smug statement, rewarded her with a pinch to the back of her thigh.

Spotting a beautiful blue silk dress, Gabrielle picked it up and held it against Xena. "What do you think of this one?" Gabrielle asked. Xena looked down at the dress. Before she could answer, Gabrielle interrupted and said "No, that absolutely won't do. We are trying to blend in. You would look too gorgeous in that. You'd have them staring from across town." Xena looked away for a second to hide the blush that crept up her cheeks. Gabrielle rifled through the pile of clothing and found some beige and brown ordinary garb. "Perfect!" she exclaimed. "We'll look ordinary and drab in no time." she added.

"Do you find yourself looking at many gorgeous women?" Xena questioned. "No, just you." Gabrielle responded with a no frills response while picking out more accessories in the stall. "Fair enough," Xena chuckled. "Hey did you want to grab some dinner tonight? Just you and I? We could try out our new boring clothes. I'm pretty sure Mom would love having Eve to herself for a bed time story." Gabrielle asked while rummaging. Xena thought for a moment and promptly agreed. "I might be able to talk to her about what I've been feeling lately." Xena thought. "I'll give you 5 dinars for these dresses," Gabrielle haggled. The poor merchant didn't know what hit him.