There were many first in my travels with Xena. One of the most interesting and illuminating had to be my first encounter with Ares. While I didn't actually get to meet him on his first attempt to win Xena back into the fold, he made his presence known.

And it made me realize that sometimes there is a big difference between what the laws dictate and justice. People's hatred and need for revenge can get in the way. Can cloud their normal idea of what punishment a person receives.

It would be an ideal society that would say a person was innocent until proven guilty. But in this day and age, it was so easy for a mob to take matters into their own hands. It wasn't long ago that Pandora had been saved from a mob. And Xena herself had been judged harshly, before a trial could even begin.

And it was all thanks to Ares. Xena is lying beside me as I write these words. Though we've had little to no contact with The God of War the past few seasons, he's left his mark on our lives. Even before having to fight for Xena's life, Ares influenced my soulmate's soul.

It's part of the reason I've had such a tenuous, at best, relationship with The God of War. He was part of the reason Xena was so full of darkness, rage and power hungry. He wasn't the only reason. There were many influences early on for the warrior princess.

But Ares was the greatest, negatively, influence on my lovely better half. But it wasn't his influence that made our relationship so tenuous. It was the fact we both wanted the same thing. We both wanted Xena.

And there wasn't much Ares hasn't, or wouldn't do, to attempt to persuade Xena to come back to his side. To lead his armies. But it wasn't only about leading his armies. There was more. He wanted her, body, heart and soul.

Neither of us realized it at the time, though I was beginning to see the connection, that we belong to one another. At the time, it was heart and soul only, even if we hadn't admitted it. The body part, well, that happened later.

Being connected to Xena, heart and soul, only made it easier each time I defended her. It was with words I had attempted to make the villagers see exactly what Xena was becoming. Yes, her past was violent and bloody. But she had become so much more.

Seeing the violent nature the village became, even the younger generation wanting to see Xena dragged to death. That encounter with Ares, even if it wasn't face to face, changed me. And I know it changed Xena. And I know it changed our relationship.

It seemed every adventure we shared, even the ones before the great tragedy, as I can only refer to it, shaped how we related to one another. This one grew Xena's respect for me. And it showed me I can fight. If only with my words.

A path not taken led us to the reckoning. Realizing that our past sins can haunt us and that perception is as much a part of life as the truth is. But again, who's truth? Who's perception? In this case, I knew my soulmate was innocent. Even if a majority of the evidence told another tale.

The Reckoning

There were times when their travels got to her feet. Gabrielle knew she could easily ride double with Xena. They couldn't travel as far or as fast doing so, but it would save her feet. It would mean she wouldn't be so exhausted each night.

So why was it Gabrielle insisted on walking? There was her supposed fear of horses and heights. But, deep down, she knew it wasn't the truth. There was something more. Their last adventure had opened up the thoughts. But the bard was far from ready to accept them.

Gabrielle shook her head. It was time to be in the here and now. It was time to remember where she was and where she was going. And the fact Xena had promised her a road, a turnoff, about an hour ago. Well, if her friend couldn't find the road, she would.

Don't get lost? To some, it could be considered disparaging. But the fact Gabrielle had admitted she had become lost several times on the way to Amphipolis, it wasn't really. And it was also the fact she was still learning from Xena how to navigate by the stars and by the land around her.

Not exactly lost, but not finding the road, the stream had looked so inviting. Especially for her feet. Gabrielle had worked hard back in Potidaea, but nothing had prepared her for the constant traveling. Even with Xena taking it easy on her and stopping more than she liked, her feet were killing. A good soak would just be what she needed.

The water was amazing. Gabrielle had lost track of time as she allowed the coolness of the water to soothe her feet and wash the dirt and sweat of another day's travel from her. There was always dust and sweat to be washed away.

The sound of her name was barely heard Gabrielle was so lost in the sensation of the cool water. It felt so…There would have been only one thing better. Hastily her sandals were back on her feet as she made her way towards Xena.

The fact Xena was calling to her informed her that there was trouble. Why didn't Gabrielle trust in that and make haste to her friend? Why was she always the dreamer? Wasn't that what her father termed was her weakest trait?

Yet, it was what made Gabrielle a bard. Was it a great bard? Was it enduring to others, while it got her in trouble? She sighed as she made her towards her best friend. As Xena urged her onboard, her fears overtook her. The irrational fear of horses. But the angry shouts caused Gabrielle to move.

Once again, Gabrielle was hanging on for dear life. At least this time, she wasn't the one who was steering. Until she was a more capable rider, she wasn't ready to flee from an angry mob. Or whoever the people were giving chase.

Waiting until nightfall? It wasn't something Gabrielle was looking forward to. It would mean no fire. It would mean not eating. And worse, it would mean being afraid. Not that she wasn't confident in Xena's abilities to get them out of whatever fix they found themselves in.

It took a moment for Gabrielle to truly comprehend what Xena had implied. The need for revenge. Simple farmers. While she and Lyceus had dabbled in swords and fighting, they were innkeepers when the attack had taken place. His death was the beginning of Xena's downward spiral. And she had been, plain and simply, an innkeeper's daughter.

Who was she attempting to convince? Gabrielle knew what Xena said was true. While the warrior princess was innocent, looks could be deceiving. And the evidence was overwhelming. Still, Gabrielle had faith in people. Had faith justice would prevail.

It almost sounded as if Xena knew who the hooded man was. But she wouldn't say. Just as she wouldn't say when she told Gabrielle to get on the horse once again. And before the bard knew it, they were off riding. The townspeople had them surrounded.

It wasn't surprising Xena gave up without a fight. Of course, the lone condition was Gabrielle be given safe passage. But there was no way she would leave Xena alone. And yet, she had to. At least, until they could mount a defense.

When finally she made it to Xena, the warrior princess was like Gabrielle had never seen before. She was stripped and only in her undergarments. That was something the bard had seen. But to see her shackled and so vulnerable? It was not something Gabrielle wanted to ever see again.

As much as she hated to admit it, Gabrielle knew her friend was right. It wouldn't have been right to fight the farmers. It would have meant more innocent lives were harmed. It was frustrating knowing Xena could have escaped, if only there weren't innocents involved.

The warning to save herself was a little cryptic. Gabrielle knew her friend had an inkling of what was happening. Yet, as always, she wouldn't share with the bard. Why? To protect her? Wouldn't it be better if she was involved in every aspect of the adventures they found themselves experiencing?

It would help in finding justice. After all, there was nothing Gabrielle wouldn't do to help Xena gain her freedom. The first thing was to beg to be Xena's council. There was no way any of the villagers, even the leader, would prepare a defense as vehemently as the bard would.

Gabrielle wasn't certain she would have convinced Benitar if it hadn't been for the display the villagers had put on. In fact, it was probably her act of desperation of placing the rope around her own neck.

And no one understood that Gabrielle was as innocent as Xena, at least of the crimes she was accused of. She knew Xena wasn't happy she was still standing up for her. But where would she be without the warrior princess? She'd learned so much, but there was so much more to learn.

Plus, there was this connection between them. Even if Xena couldn't admit to it, it was as if the two had always meant to meet and travel the known world together. Or was it Gabrielle merely dreaming? It wouldn't be the first time.

Not about her? Gabrielle knew it wasn't about her. Even though she wanted to learn so much from Xena, she knew she could learn to live without her warrior princess. Even if it meant surrendering and making her way home. Or perhaps to Amphipolis?

And why was it stupid? A heavy sigh escaped Gabrielle as the words sunk in. As she'd said, just because she was an ordinary person didn't mean she couldn't fight. Especially if it was in defense of her best friend. But then, was it because Xena had been afraid she might have been harmed?

The fact was, the evidence was nearly overwhelming. But she had to try. Gabrielle knew there had to be a way to prove, even to angry villagers, her best friend was innocent. The witnesses sadly only saw the aftermath, not the actual fight.

It took a little while, but Gabrielle found what was necessary. There was proof of another mysterious fighter. Would it be enough to convince the villagers of Xena's innocence? There was one man she could attempt to convince.

How? How had the footprints merely disappeared? Gabrielle knew it made her look a fool after the evidence not being there. She sighed as she knew it made the defense of her friend that much more difficult.

As the testimony continued, Gabrielle was beginning to see how hopeless it was. She couldn't allow her hope to completely fade, but she was now certain Xena would be found guilty. Even when she'd made several excellent points, no one wanted to see them.

The most damning of testimony was from a dying man. And not being able to ask anything of him, Gabrielle knew his final words would have the greatest impact of all the testimony. She felt angry at having something or someone place Xena in this situation and for her not being able to help her friend.

Of course Gabrielle felt sympathy for the families of the victims. And wanted nothing more than to provide them comfort and closure. But at the expense of her friend who was innocent? There had to be something else they could do. Something else she could say.

There was more Gabrielle needed to do and that was further confer with the counsel. Then she would speak to Xena. There just had to be something they could do. The chaos she found and the hit she took from Xena were not what she expected. She hated crawling off, but Gabrielle needed to gather her thoughts.

It was as if there was a sign of some kind as Gabrielle wandered at the edge of town. When she found Argo, she knew what she needed to do. It wasn't long before she was wearing a hooded cloak and had some rope. Glancing around, she made certain no one was looking.

The surprise in Xena's voice was not surprising. It's not even angering as Gabrielle knew the violence shown would make most run. But she wasn't like most. She would never leave her best friend to fend for herself.

It had taken a moment to realize if Xena had been in her right mind, she never would have struck her. Gabrielle knew Xena would defend her with her very life. So it only made sense for her to return.

Xena's refusal was only slightly surprising. After all, the entire time of the trial it was as if her best friend wanted to be punished. There were so many past sins that Xena had never faced the consequences to and never would. But this wasn't a sin. This was defending those who could not defend themselves.

And the look on Xena's face, somehow Gabrielle knew. But of course her best friend wouldn't tell her what this new plan was. The fact she couldn't be involved only hurt slightly as Xena thanked her for coming back.

The guilty verdict wasn't surprising. It was crushing. Yet, Xena seemed pleased she had been found guilty. And before Gabrielle knew what was happening, the slain men were walking out of the tent. No one was harmed. No one was dead. She had to remind them to change the verdict.

A thanks. For Gabrielle, it meant everything. She knew how difficult it was for Xena to apologize or thank someone. Not because she wasn't sorry or grateful. It was the warrior way. And to the warrior princess, it showed weakness. Something she was unaccustomed to. Hopefully one day, with the bard, she wouldn't feel that way.

While she had owed Xena one, punching her was not the brightest thing. Though her hand hurt, Gabrielle sort of felt better. And yet, didn't. She knew it was empty at best. And there was the fact Xena was truly sorry.

Ever heard of Ares? The time flew as Xena related the tale. How The God of War had attempted to have her return to the fold. And how Xena had once again outsmarted the god. It didn't surprise Gabrielle. And yet, it made her wonder. Just where did Xena's many skills end?

()()()()()()()()()()()()()

Impatience. Xena shook her head at the youthful impatience her young companion showed. It was wanting to explore, to see what was around the next corner. In some ways, the warrior princess envied her friend. After all, it had been some time since Xena had that wanderlust.

Hopefully, it would be a long time before Gabrielle lost that wanderlust. That wanting to know what was around the next corner. To see where each road led to. Xena couldn't help the smirk upon her face. And once again, she was reminded of her younger brother.

Slowly, so that Xena wouldn't distance herself too far from her bard, she made her way towards what she knew was the road. But there was something in the air. There was a sound, no one would be able to hear. Except those that were trained like she was.

It was someone crying out in pain. A sound Xena was familiar with. At one time, it would have been a sound she treasured. It would have been a sound she attempted to hear. But now, she was rushing to stop such suffering. To make certain none had to suffer any kind of loss.

After all, it was what had started Xena on her path of destruction. Seeing Lyceus' body. Seeing what his death did to their mother. The warrior princess gritted her teeth as she made her way towards the wails. Only to find the cause behind the wails. It was time to do what she did best.

As the battle waged on, Xena realized she had met her match. In fact, there was something familiar about the mystery man's fighting style. It was as if Xena had fought the hooded warrior once before.

When the mysterious fighter suddenly disappeared, Xena was nearly certain she knew who it was. But it couldn't be. She'd had no true contact with the aberration before. Perhaps in a form and she didn't realize it…

It took a moment for Xena to react. She instantly went into healer mode. There were those beyond her skills. There was one she could help. But he had lost so much blood, he was unable to aid in his own healing.

And when the villagers came and saw the blood on her hands…Xena knew she was in trouble. She knew they wouldn't believe her when she told them the truth. She had been defending the innocent.

But she couldn't harm the farmers. For that's all the angry mob was. She had to escape. She had to get away. And she had to get Gabrielle. It was the first thought that entered Xena's mind. Even the safety of the villagers was second to where her bard was and getting her to safety.

Xena's heart was in her throat. It seemed to muffle her voice as it called out for her bard. It took how many attempts for Gabrielle to finally respond. And even when the warrior princess saw her, it took a moment for her to regain her focus.

How many times had Xena seen her bard bathing herself? And those times, Gabrielle had been completely naked. Was it the danger? The sun? The way the bard looked so innocent as she clearly enjoyed her bath?

Or was it the invitation. Xena managed to do what she always did. No matter how distracted she became, she did what she had to. That was to get Gabrielle motivated so they could attempt to escape the villagers.

There was only one way out. Xena knew only night would cover their attempt to escape. In the meantime, she would have to explain how innocent villagers were the most dangerous. After all, she was once an innocent villager. Until Cortese. Until her brother's death…

Trial? Gabrielle truly was innocent if she thought a trial would make a difference. Especially with the overwhelming evidence. If it was someone Xena cared for, Gabrielle for instance, it would have to be irrefutable evidence.

And the fact there was the familiar presence. If it was who Xena thought it was, most likely it would be beneficial to allow this to play out. To see if there was something to be gained…Or potentially lost.

Warning Gabrielle to get as far away as possible wasn't easy for Xena. But she needed to know the bard would do as she was asked. That she would survive to continue telling the stories the warrior princess secretly loved. But also hated. As they painted Xena as a heroine. She was far from that.

And there it was…Once again, Xena was sensing something. There was trouble brewing. At least Gabrielle was fighting her less when she was told to ride along with her on Argo. Even though both horse and bard weren't fans of one another.

It, unfortunately, wasn't long before Xena once again sensed something. Or was it smelled something? Anger? It actually does have a scent. While Anger was what most would label it as, there was also fear. Especially when it came to simple villagers.

Trying to turnaround so they could escape was a mistake. The fact Gabrielle needed more time on Argo wasn't lost on Xena. But there were more important matters. The fact the villagers now had her bard was all that mattered.

It was clear. One way or another, Gabrielle was to go free. Xena knew, as did the leader, she could easily fight her way through. It was clear, she hoped, she would surrender if they allowed her bard to go free.

It was time to stand trial. On some level, Xena wished it could be for her real crimes. On another, she wished merely to go free with Gabrielle by her side. It was the only way she could even attempt to make up for the atrocities she had caused.

The tossing of the sword was easier than Xena had thought. Was it looking into emerald eyes and knowing exactly what her bard would do in the same situation? Gabrielle would stand trial. She would use her words, instead of the sword. It was fitting she was looking into those emerald eyes as everything went dark.

It wasn't even amazing that Gabrielle was standing there asking how her head was. Xena had had worse. Her head pounding wasn't what was worrying her. The safety of her bard was of the only thing on her mind. That, and how to escape the latest mess she found herself in.

Xena sighed at the question. It could have been so easy to continue to fight. Even with Gabrielle captured, she could have fought her way through what the villagers called a defense. The only problem? Who would be harmed in the process. It could have even meant Gabrielle was the one who was harmed.

It would be nice if justice prevailed. But Xena had been around. She had seen what justice was like when it was left to those hurt by the actions of others. Even if it could be proven her innocence, most likely she would have to fight to gain her freedom. Or allow them to punish her.

Her determination was endearing, but Xena needed her bard to get to safety. Not to worry what happened to her. But she knew Gabrielle would remain. And she would do her best to prove her innocence.

As soon as Gabrielle had departed, there was something familiar once again Xena began to sense. It was something from her past. And the moment the male figure shimmered into view, Xena knew who he was.

It was true, at one time, Ares was her mentor. It was doing what she could for him that had partially driven her. And he had shown her so much. But he hadn't taught her how to live with herself and the consequences.

It was part of the reason Xena no longer wished to know Ares. It wasn't merely what his appearance was that had had the young warrior princess wondering. It was the power it was everything he was and more.

But now, Xena had better things to wonder about. She wondered if her tainted soul could ever be truly healed. If she could learn to live with the voices and the guilt that continued to haunt her. Even when she was awake, they haunted her.

To be transported away, it was nice. But it wasn't ideal. That would be if she was anywhere with Gabrielle. Xena couldn't allow those thoughts, feelings to bubble to the surface. Ares was not someone she could trust. He would use her weaknesses against her.

Xena had to admit, at least internally, she was impressed with Ares' choice of venue. But there was the serious side of this deadly game. There were three innocents dead. There was another who could lose his life. And there was Gabrielle.

Yes, they had been a great match. But it was true what Xena had said. It was her youth that made it so. It was the anger she felt inside. And it was the need for vengeance. But she was beyond that. Wasn't she?

More fun? Xena knew what the God of War was referring to. Not thinking of the consequences was more fun. But now she was fighting for the greater good. She was fighting to make the world a better place.

It was so tempting. Xena could fight by Ares' side and make the kind of decrees that would make the world a better place. She could have an army. Anyone she wanted, dead or alive, fighting alongside her or for her.

There wasn't what seemed to be a catch. But Xena knew better. The price of ruling by Ares' side didn't seem bad on the surface. But Xena knew what it could lead to. She wasn't ready for that. And all it took was saying his name. She'd keep that in mind.

And just like that, Xena was once again chained to the walls. But it wasn't long before she would see her fate. Part of her wanted to call out to Ares. But no. If this was her destiny, she would see it to the end.

But seeing Gabrielle with the rope around her neck…It wasn't acceptable. Xena needed to figure a way out of it. She knew Ares was the key. But timing, as with anything in life, was everything.

Why was it so different that Xena would have sacrificed herself? Because, she was a warrior. It's what she did. The world wouldn't shed a tear if she were to disappear. And yet, that wasn't the real reason. It was Gabrielle being in danger.

Defense? There wasn't much defense. There were witnesses. No one had seen the hooded man. While there was the hope of reason, in a place so full of hate and the need for revenge, it was unlikely a fair trial could take place.

Sitting on trial wasn't something Xena was accustomed to. It was easy to put on the stoic façade she had all the time. But hearing the testimony, it cut deep. So much like actions she would have taken in the past and enjoyed.

And hearing Gabrielle attempt to sway the jury and the villagers…Xena knew she was lucky to have the bard in her life. If not for her, she might already have had to do some bodily harm to the villagers to escape. Or allowed herself to be punished.

Even explaining away the blood only had a minor effect on the villagers. Once again, Xena couldn't blame them. Life was about perception. It was only a matter of how you looked at things. Everyone's truth was slightly different, depending on how they saw the so called facts.

And the testimony of a dying man was the final nail in her coffin. Xena knew she was to be found guilty. She knew there was only one she could turn to. Sadly, it wasn't Gabrielle. It would have to be him.

Part of her wanted now to call out to Ares. Especially as soon as the villager had entered. There was that look in his eyes. It was one she had shown so many. The physical beating she could endure. It was the names. Even though she was innocent this time, there were so many names on her list. Ones she should be punished for.

As the beating continued, Xena closed her eyes. Once again, she was close. As close as when she saw her form of punishment should she be found guilty. It wasn't surprising Ares was here once again. And this time, she knew exactly what to say and do.

Ares' words did something to her. It's that old familiar lust for carnage. For power. For killing. It was a sensation she'd attempted to keep bottled up for many moons now. And with Gabrielle by her side, she'd been able to do just that. But the burning deep within, it was Ares. And his words were fueling the flames.

Just like that, Xena was free. It was like she was given the strength of ten men she so easily ripped the chains from the walls. Now lost in her old cravings, she attacked those attacking her with ease. And even though she could hear the familiar voice, sense the familiar presence, it had no effect on her.

Not until Xena felt the contact. Not until she saw the utter fear in those emerald eyes. Instantly, the burning was gone. Left behind was regret. Left behind was calm. An almost eerie calm as once again Xena knew exactly what she needed to do.

It was not running. As she told Benitar, it was time she stood trial for what she had done. Xena appreciated the fact he wasn't about to judge her on her past, the evidence was still so overwhelming…

The familiar presence. The voice. How could Gabrielle come back for her? After striking her so harshly? Wasn't her? How did her bard know it wasn't her? Or was it wishful thinking? No, with Gabrielle, it was faith. Faith in humanity and faith in Xena. Just not always faith in justice.

Was it the way she spoke? Was it the way Xena had appeared? However it was, Gabrielle somehow just knew that the warrior princess was up to something. That there was a plan forming. Asking to be left alone was the most difficult thing. Especially after all that her bard had done for her.

Did she know? Xena hoped Gabrielle understood. In some ways, Xena didn't understand herself. But knew this was the way it had to be. It was the only way to escape such a heinous punishment.

It was the biggest condition. If found guilty, she would rule Ares' empire. Why had she repeated guilty? Because it was all part of her plan. Hopefully Ares wouldn't see through her veil until it was too late.

And the most important part. Xena could have anyone in her army, past or present. Alive or dead. Ares would do anything to show how much he wanted her back in his fold. To have her lead what would result in a brave new world of Ares' design.

Guilty. That was what Xena needed to hear. Part of her wished she could have told Gabrielle what was up her sleeve. But she couldn't take the chance on her bard accidentally letting it slip.

And just like that, Xena was free. Having called forth the men of the village who had been killed and Ares, for once, keeping his promise, she was free. There was no need for her to be whisked away. There was only one thing left. And that was for Xena to explain what had happened.

Right choice? As Xena and her companion made their way from the village, she knew for certain she had made the right choice for her. There were so many reasons why, but Gabrielle was the most important one of all.

And the adorable way Gabrielle had attempted to gain her payback…This, once again, was what Xena had been missing all these years. It was someone who understood her, which Gabrielle slowly was. It was also someone who could bring out the playful side of her. Even if to others, she remained the same stoic warrior.

And the ultimate question. How did Xena get those men to come back to life. Perhaps it was the warrior princess' turn to tell a tale. It would be the truth. There would be no embellishments, at least not until Gabrielle got a hold of it and added her own twist upon it. There was a part of Xena that couldn't wait to hear her friend's version.

()()()()()()()()()()()()()

The camp was quiet. Not like Xena was accustomed to. Even if it meant the rustling of parchment instead of Gabrielle relating their latest adventure or trying out one of her stories on the warrior princess.

Instead, Gabrielle was staring into the flames. Xena internally sighed as she pretended to go about her usual. Now that they had finished their evening meal, it was time for the warrior princess to relax. Or attempt to. And the only way was to sharpen and polish her sword.

Sometimes, it was only maintaining appearances as Xena waited for her bard to open up to her. Fortunately for the warrior princess, it didn't take much longer as the meager voice of her traveling companion pierced the darkness.

"Were you actually tempted to accept Ares' offer?" Gabrielle remained staring into the flames. It was as if she couldn't face even the possibility of being left behind. Even though they'd discussed this issue, it was still the bard's greatest fear.

So, this was the fear. Xena put her sword and chakram in their spot. She was confident they were safe where they were. It was a more secluded spot than normal, not that she ever chose anywhere fully in the open.

"There will probably always be a part of me that is tempted by what Ares offered me." Xena was now sitting next her bard. They were sharing Gabrielle's bedroll. If only they were sharing it for a different reason.

Xena cleared her throat at the thought. With each passing day, it seemed more and more to enter into her mind. The thought of she and Gabrielle as more than friends sometimes was too much now. But she couldn't allow for that. No matter how much she wanted it.

"There's a darkness inside me. You don't even know half of what I'm capable of." Xena was now the one staring into the flames, as if they had some answer she didn't even know the question to.

"You've shown me the light. A different path." Xena swallowed. She needed a drink. Unfortunately while traveling, the warrior princess traveled light. That meant water was the only beverage she had at hand.

"And it's a good path." Xena felt the hand on her thigh. Though she wanted to cover it with her own, she refrained. Friends. It was all they could ever have. Even if Gabrielle would ever want more.

"But the darkness that's inside of me…" Xena sighed. She remembered a similar conversation. It was just after their encounter with Morpheus. The pebble that remained at the bottom of the lake.

"And there will be reminders of my past." Now Xena couldn't speak without taking a sip of water. As if reading her mind, Gabrielle handed her the waterskin with her free hand. It was several long pulls the warrior princess took before being able to continue.

"And there will always be a pull." It wasn't something Xena was proud of. And yet, it was the truth. They could spend eternity together and there would always be this darkness inside. It could be contained. It could be useful. But it would never fully leave the warrior princess.

"Today, it was Ares. As much as it was Cortese who led me on my path of darkness, there was this other pull." Xena felt her bard lean into her. It was comforting. It was distracting. And it was oh so addicting.

"Ares reminded me of some of the things I used to crave. In the past, I would have done what he had. Slaughtered some villagers to make a point. To gain whatever I can." Xena didn't feel a flinch. In fact, she felt Gabrielle snuggle into her more.

"But I know that road it led me down. Killing off the right person would lead to the wrong person wanting revenge." Xena could feel the tears. What was it about her bard that caused her to feel so deeply?

"That was me. So as much as what Ares was offering me was tempting, especially the merely living part, I couldn't allow that to happen." There was one thing Xena knew they needed to discuss further.

True, Gabrielle had gained her 'revenge' or paybacks by punching her, it wasn't enough. Sometimes words left unspoken were the worst thing in the world. Especially if they were I love you.

"And that brings us to another discussion we need to have." Xena shoved her emotions deep within. Especially when she felt her traveling companion stiffen. "It's about me striking you."

"Xena, we already went over this." Gabrielle now had pulled away. She was looking into cobalt eyes. They were as cold as a clear winter's day sky. And yet, there was an underlying warmth as well.

"And I'm not talking about the paybacks." The sentiment caused Xena to smirk. A small crack in the walls the warrior princess continued to maintain, even from Gabrielle. It saddened the bard, but knew it would take time. Maybe all of eternity to break through.

"I had to do some thinking after you struck me." Gabrielle once again knew a little humor would help the situation. "I know, that's dangerous when it comes to me." Once again, there was the tiniest of cracks as Xena's lips twitched.

"It didn't take long. I just knew, deep within, you were not yourself." Gabrielle once again was leaning against her warrior princess. She was only slightly surprised when she felt the arm wrap around her waist.

"That there was something influencing you. I didn't know it was Ares, God of War. I thought maybe the physical beating you had taken. Or the fear you might die." Gabrielle felt the inhalation of breath.

"So when you hit me, it hurt. On an emotional level more so than physical." Gabrielle once again barely felt the flinch. It was the only emotion she would garner from her warrior princess.

"But I realized something. It was striking me that brought you back to me." The choice of words was more important than Gabrielle realized. But the warrior princess knew. "And it might happen again. But know this…"

Once again, Gabrielle made it so she was looking her warrior princess directly in the eyes. "I'm not going anywhere. I'll always be here for you. Until you want me to go away. Our friendship…"

It didn't need to be said. Xena understood. Their friendship was everything. And it would continue to be. It was only a matter of taking one day, one adventure at a time. Where would their next path lead them?