Chapter 7: Army Recruiting, Part III
The recruits lined up eagerly, each drawing a number from a bucket to pin to their shirts, marking their order for the day's trials. Gabrielle had her scroll in hand as she made herself a judge alongside Xena, ready to record their performances. Xena rose from her seat, causing the men to silence themselves.
"Today, we start with an archery challenge," her voice carrying across the courtyard.
"You'll stand at three marked lines, each farther from the target. Show us what you've got. Just so there's no confusion, your skilled king is going to show you how it's done." Ulysses joined her with his bow in hand. With a playful smile, he leaned in and shared a tender kiss with Xena.
Grinning, they both pulled away. Every recruit now understood where Xena stood within their kingdom, her importance clear as day. As Ulysses moved to each line, effortlessly hitting his mark over and over, the recruits watched in amazement, their respect for their king growing with each impressive shot. By the time he returned to Xena's side, the courtyard echoed with the sound of their shouts.
Xena's face lit up with pride as she reached out and took Ulysses' hand in hers. Together, they made their way back to their seats. The prince made his way outside to watch the last day of the challenges. The men all bowed to him, as he sat down next to Gabrielle. She gave him a soft smile. The king raised his arm, signaling for them to begin.
The first recruit stepped forward, his hands trembling as he took aim with an arrow. It flew wide of the target. Xena and Ulysses sighed while Gabrielle made a note. As the challenge progressed, some recruits showed impressive skill, earning nods from Ulysses, Xena, and Telemachus. Others struggled, causing Xena to roll her eyes. The courtyard buzzed with excitement as each recruit took their turn, determined to prove themselves. Gabrielle recorded their performances, noting strengths and weaknesses.
Gabrielle went inside, leaving Xena and Ulysses to review the data. The recruits waited nervously, talking quietly. Kryocles, who had nailed all his targets, paced nervously despite teasing from other recruits.
"Why are you pacing nervously?" one of the men asked him.
"Yeah, Mr. Goody Two-Shoes," another teased. "We saw how the king sparred with you longer than anyone else. You definitely made the cut, even if no one else did." Kryocles stopped walking to stare at them and then began to pace again.
Ulysses and Xena continued their discussion as the recruits watched. Xena had a cunning smile, and Ulysses nodded in agreement with the information he received. Xena sat with a smug smile while Ulysses addressed the recruits.
"Men, we have one more challenge left before we announce the results," Ulysses announced. The recruits looked around nervously, wondering what else could be in store for them. "Take a moment to yourselves while we get set up," he instructed before turning to leave, sitting next to Xena.
The courtyard scrambled with activity as guards brought out various ropes, poles, and obstacles, preparing to set up the obstacle course for the recruits. Ulysses and Xena oversaw the preparations, discussing the layout and placement of each challenge.
The recruits gathered in a nervous cluster, watching with wide eyes as the course took shape. Some exchanged whispers, speculating about the challenges they would face, while others stretched and mentally prepared themselves.
The guards arranged the ropes and obstacles, ensuring each component was securely anchored and positioned to provide a formidable challenge. Ropes were strung between sturdy poles to create high and low obstacles, while wooden barriers were placed strategically to test agility and coordination. As the last obstacle was put in place, Ulysses stepped forward to address the recruits.
"Today, you will face one final test of your strength, agility, and determination," he announced, his voice carrying across the courtyard. "Complete this obstacle course, and you will prove yourselves worthy to join the ranks of my army."
The recruits exchanged determined nods, their determination strengthened by Ulysses' words. With a signal from Xena, the first recruit stepped forward to begin the course, their heart pounding as they prepared to face the challenges ahead.
Under the watchful gaze of Ulysses, Xena, and the assembled crowd, the recruits tackled the obstacle course with determination and grit, pushing themselves to their limits as they navigated each challenge with skill and determination.
As the last recruit crossed the finish line, pride filled the air. Ulysses and Xena exchanged a satisfied nod, impressed by the recruits' performance. "Well done," Ulysses announced. "Please fill your bellies while we make our final decisions."
The footmen swiftly brought out platters of hearty food and pitchers of refreshing drinks for the men. The aroma of roasted meat and freshly baked bread filled the air, enticing the recruits to indulge after their exertions on the obstacle course.
Xena and Ulysses settled into their chairs as they began to discuss their findings. They pored over their notes, exchanging thoughtful observations and considering each recruit's strengths and weaknesses.
After two hours of careful consideration, Ulysses rose from his seat. Xena stood by his side as they approached the group of recruits, the scroll clutched tightly in Ulysses' hand. Gabrielle and Telemachus joined them. Clearing his throat, Ulysses addressed the assembled men.
"If your number is called by Lady Xena," he began, his words ringing out with certainty, "congratulations, you have made it." The recruits held their breath, their eyes fixed on Ulysses and Xena, waiting for the verdict that would determine their fate. They listened for the sound of their number, their hopes hanging in the balance.
Anticipation filled the air as Xena began to call out the numbers of those who had impressed them. The first number she called was Kryocles. The men erupted into cheers, offering words of encouragement as he walked proudly to the king and shook his hand. Kryocles then proceeded to shake hands with Xena, Gabrielle, and Telemachus before returning to the group of men, a proud smile on his face.
One by one, the proceedings continued, with each recruit who had shown promise being called forward to receive acknowledgment from the royal couple. Excitement and tension filled the area as the names were called, each one met with cheers and applause from the assembled crowd.
With the moment of truth concluded, Ulysses couldn't help but notice the saddened faces of those recruits who didn't make the cut. With empathy in his voice, he addressed them, offering words of encouragement and reassurance.
"I know this may be disappointing, but remember, this is not the end of your journey. You have shown great courage and determination, and there will be other opportunities for you. In the meantime, continue to sharpen your skills and hone your abilities. Who knows what the future may hold?" His words seemed to offer a glimmer of hope to the disappointed recruits, their spirits lifted by his encouragement.
~XA~
Ulysses pulled Xena into his embrace while they walked towards the palace.
"You were amazing this week, Xena," he praised, wrapping his arms around her waist.
"Thank you," returning his smile, her own pride shining through as she hugged him tightly. They leaned in for a kiss. Just as their lips were about to meet, the prince walked into the hall, interrupting their moment.
"Father," he said loudly, his tone urgent, "we must finalize everything for your homecoming. You haven't tried on anything yet, nor have we discussed your preferred route, or how you want the horses..." Ulysses cut him off with a raised hand.
"I get it," his tone firm but not unkind. Telemachus stared at him impatiently, expecting the king to walk with him right then.
"You go ahead, and I'll meet you."
"Very well," the prince said, slightly annoyed, before walking off to attend to his duties.
Turning back to Xena, Ulysses addressed her with a gentle smile.
"You and Gabrielle need to try on your ensembles as well," he reminded her. "I will have them brought to your room."
"Okay," Xena replied, her tone soft but assuring. They shared a tender kiss, a silent promise passing between them.
"I will see you later, okay?" While he reluctantly pulled away. She nodded, her reluctance mirrored in her eyes, but she let him go. She understood the importance of his duties as king. While she watched Ulysses depart into the shadows, Gabrielle came to stand next to her. She placed her hand on Xena's arm and smiled brightly at her.
"He's really captured your heart, huh?" Gabrielle said playfully. Xena looked at her friend and smiled softly,
"You taught me how to allow myself to feel like this again, and I'm forever grateful." Gabrielle pulled her into her arms.
"Ulysses wants us to try on our dresses for the homecoming. We only have two days left, so hopefully everything fits."
"I'm sure it will. They seem to already have your size down. Your clothes he had made for you are stunning." Xena's face flushed.
"Well, let's get going in case there are changes that need to be made."
~XA~
Ulysses stood on a stool as the seamstresses measured his clothes, checking for any alterations needed. The prince sat at a table and had a map rolled out in front of him, marking off the route as he discussed it with the king. However, the king's mind was elsewhere, preoccupied with thoughts of his new love.
"Father, how does that sound?" the prince asked, seeking his attention. The king, lost in thought, stared into the distance.
"Father," the prince persisted, turning to face him.
"Yes, son?" the king replied absentmindedly. Realizing his father's distraction, the prince sighed,
"Did you hear any word I said?...Of course you didn't," the prince answered, noting the king's guilty expression. The prince vented his frustration,
"We are never going to get this finalized if you can't remain focused." Suddenly, the king's eyes lit up with an idea.
"You know who would be great to help you with the route?" he asked. The prince, uninterested, replied,
"Who?" "Xena," the king answered confidently.
"How is someone who's never been here going to help?" The prince raised his voice.
"I think I'll pass," he added dismissively.
~XA~
Once Xena and Gabrielle were satisfied with their outfits, they leisurely wandered through the palace halls, trying to become more familiar with the giant building. Lysandra approached Xena swiftly.
"The king has sent for you," taking Xena's hand and pulling her along.
"I'll see you later," Gabrielle called out as she continued her stroll. Lysandra led Xena to Ulysses' bedroom. She bowed to Xena as she left. Xena pushed open the door and found him sitting at his desk, surrounded by an array of scrolls.
"What's all this?"
"Well, I need to finalize the route we'll be taking as well as the food, decorations, and music," Ulysses explained. "They literally want my input on everything."
"Okay." She took a seat beside him at his desk. She took a seat next to him at his desk. Scrolls covered the surface, mapping out their upcoming homecoming in vivid detail. With a grin, they delved into the task.
"So, what's the plan?" Xena teased, a playful spark in her eyes. Ulysses leaned closer, his gaze locking with hers.
"I see a journey that's adventurous yet elegant," he began, his voice smooth and captivating.
"We'll wind through each part of the kingdom. That way, I can fully review the current state of the people. I also want the people all over that are unable to gather at the palace, to see...us." He looked into Xena's eyes. Her heart raced, imagining the adventure ahead.
"And the feast?" tracing her finger along a map.
"Are you wanting the guests to fix their own food, or do you want everyone to be served...I think it would be better if everyone was served."
"Absolutely," Ulysses agreed, his tone determined. "And not just any feast. I want flavors that tease the taste buds, each dish a tribute to our heritage." Their ideas flowed effortlessly, each complimenting the other's with ease.
"Next, I think the decorations," her gaze lingering on Ulysses, "should match the magnificence of the occasion. Tapestries, flowers—the works." Ulysses nodded in agreement, his admiration for Xena shining.
"Your creativity knows no bounds," he whispered, a smile playing on his lips. "Together, we'll create something unforgettable." And as they finished, laughter filled the air, mingling with the promise of what lay ahead.
Once they finished their plans, Ulysses called for Lysandra to deliver the finalized documents. With a nod, he instructed her to begin implementing their designs at sunrise. Xena rose from her seat, ready to retire for the night. Just as she told Ulysses goodnight, he reached out and grasped her hand.
"Xena, please, stay with me tonight." Caught off guard, Xena glanced around the room, unsure of how to respond.
"Yes?" Ulysses prompted.
"Yes," she replied, a hint of uncertainty in her voice. "But I need to change first."
"Don't worry about that, I've got you covered," Ulysses assured her, striding to a large chest and retrieving a delicate lace gown.
"Where did you get this?" Xena inquired, surprised.
"Oh, just a few items I picked up for you in the marketplace," Ulysses replied with a smile, handing her the gown. As she slowly undressed and slipped into the gown, he watched her intently. He then removed his own clothes and slipped on a pair of silk sleep pants.
Taking her hand, he led her to the bed, pulling back the covers for her to crawl underneath. He joined her on the other side, and they lay facing each other in the dim candlelight. Tenderly, he brushed a strand of hair from her face.
"I'm so glad you came into my life," he murmured softly. A warm smile graced Xena's lips,
"Me too." Their gazes locked, and Ulysses leaned in to kiss her passionately. Xena melted into his embrace while his hands explored her body. But as she tugged at his pants, Ulysses pulled back breathlessly.
"It's not the right moment," he explained. Sensing her confusion, he decided to explain further, "When the moment is right, we'll both know." She understood exactly what he meant. She settled back against the pillows, and they drifted off to sleep, wrapped in each other's embrace, their hearts beating as one.