Chapter 21: Paths to Forgiveness

Gabrielle swiftly headed towards Xena's bed chambers. Zephyra, who was nearby, noticed Gabrielle approaching and quickly turned to walk in the opposite direction.

"Zephyra," Gabrielle called out. Zephyra sighed internally but turned around with a polite smile.

"Yes?"

"Is Xena in her room?" Gabrielle asked, her tone sharp.

"Yes, she's with our king. They haven't been in there long, so I don't recommend disturbing them right now." Gabrielle stared at her with a challenging look in her eyes. Zephyra met her gaze, unfriendly and firm.

"I'll come back later," Gabrielle finally said, turning to walk away. Zephyra raised an eyebrow as she watched her leave, then continued about her duties.

Xena sat in the sunroom, watching the various fish swim around in the in-floor pond. The gentle movement of the water and the graceful motions of the fish provided a soothing distraction to her thoughts. She barely noticed Gabrielle passing by until she saw her standing in the doorway. When Xena made eye contact with her, Gabrielle's eyes immediately began to water. She walked towards Xena with her hands held out.

"Oh Xena," Gabrielle whispered, her voice breaking. Xena's expression was blank, hiding the flood of emotions she felt inside. She sat still, her eyes narrowing slightly as Gabrielle sat down next to her and pulled her into her arms.

"I'm so sorry." Her voice was choked with sobs. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she held Xena tightly, her hand rubbing Xena's back in a comforting gesture. Gabrielle's touch was gentle, her hand moving in soothing circles on Xena's back, and then, tenderly, she placed her hand on Xena's belly.

"I don't know what came over me," Gabrielle continued, her voice trembling.

"I said such awful things to you. I was... I was so cruel, and you didn't deserve any of it. Please, forgive me." Tears began to form in Xena's eyes. She took a slow, deep breath, her eyes fixed on the pond.

"It hurt, Gabrielle," her voice was low.

"More than you could imagine." Gabrielle's tears began to flow more freely as she broke down.

"I know," she whispered, choking through her sobs.

"I was wrong, and I'm so, so sorry. I can't take back what I said, but I want to make it right. I want to be here for you, for both of you." Xena looked down at their joined hands on her belly, her expression softening.

"You already are." Xena ran her fingers through Gabrielle's hair. They stayed like that for a while, holding each other, the bond between them slowly beginning to mend.

Xena sat in her chambers in front of the mirror, putting the finishing touches on her hair. The morning sickness was completely gone now, thanks to Mykaleia's tea. Ulysses was still in bed, enjoying the comfort of being able to relax. From the mirror, she could see his hand rubbing the spot where she would usually lay. He lazily sat up and looked around the room.

"Over here," she called softly. Ulysses rose from the bed and stretched. "Where are you going today?" he asked, walking over to her and kissing her sweetly.

"I've been feeling much better now, so I'm going to head into the kingdom," Xena replied.

"I can send some guards with you," Ulysses offered, concern in his eyes.

She snickered and took his hands in hers. "I don't need protection." Then, she loudly sheathed her sword and hid her breast dagger.

His eyes drifted down to her belly. "Halfway there."

"Yep, a season and a half left," she said, a tender smile forming as they stared into each other's eyes.

A knock on the door disturbed their moment. Xena went to the door and opened it to find Zephyra standing there.

"Zephyra, we're heading into the kingdom today," Xena informed her.

Zephyra's face lit up with a large smile. It had been months since Xena had been outside the palace. "Please tell Gabrielle she'll be accompanying us," Xena added.

Zephyra's smile immediately changed to one of disappointment. Xena smiled inwardly, trying to contain her laugh. "Mykaleia will be going as well, let her know too, please."

"At once," Zephyra replied, her voice tinged with annoyance as she left the room.

Xena walked to the front of the palace where Gabrielle, Mykaleia, and Zephyra were waiting. Her hair was pulled back in a low ponytail, and she wore a loose, dark navy dress. She opted not to wear any jewelry, not wanting to stand out too much. The attendant, Yannis, handed Xena her red cloak.

"Wrap up," Xena instructed, fastening her cloak. "We're riding in an open carriage, and it's cool out. Once we start riding, it'll be even cooler."

Zephyra looked at Xena and noticed how the cloak completely covered her body. She briefly wondered if Xena was trying to hide her pregnancy from the kingdom, but then shook the thought out of her mind. The cloak's fit wasn't something Xena could control. Xena looked around,

"Are we ready?" The three women nodded. Zephyra adjusted her own cloak, making sure it was secure, while Gabrielle and Mykaleia did the same. The stablehands brought the carriage around, and the horses snorted in the crisp morning air.

"Let's go, then," Xena said, leading the way to the carriage.

Xena climbed in first with their assistance. Once she was seated, Zephyra immediately climbed in next, slightly pushing past Gabrielle to ensure she sat next to Xena. Gabrielle looked at her sideways and then climbed onto the second row with Mykaleia. Xena licked her lips trying to hold in her laugh, amused at the whole scene. Zephyra looked back towards Gabrielle, giving her a look of "too bad," and turned back around.

"Ya!" Xena called out, slamming the reins. The tension was high during the ride. Every word that came out of Gabrielle's mouth, Xena felt Zephyra sighing. Gabrielle tried to ignore her. She didn't want to get into an altercation right now. Zephyra wrapped her arm around the back of Xena's waist and laid her head on her shoulder. Then, she whispered,

"Why did she have to come?" Xena spoke through clenched teeth,

"Be nice."

"But I just wanted it to be just me and you," Zephyra protested, her voice barely a whisper.

"I know you did, but you have to share me," Xena replied, giving her a tight smile.

Zephyra leaned back up and just looked the other way, crossing her arms and pouting slightly. Xena sighed inwardly, shaking her head as she guided the horses. She glanced back at Gabrielle, who was making an effort to ignore the tension, focusing instead on a conversation with Mykaleia about herbal remedies.

As the carriage moved along the cobblestone streets, the sound of the wheels clattering against the stones filled the silence. Xena kept her eyes forward, trying to enjoy the ride despite the awkward atmosphere. Gabrielle finally broke the silence, addressing Mykaleia.

"Have you been able to gather more of that special herb from the northern hills?" Mykaleia nodded.

"Yes, I've stocked up. It's been very useful, especially with all the recent illnesses going around." Zephyra sighed loudly, making her displeasure known. Gabrielle shot her a look but remained silent. Xena decided to intervene, trying to steer the conversation.

"Speaking of herbs, I am feeling much better, Mykaleia. Thank you."

"I am very glad to hear that."

"Gabrielle, how has the garden been coming along with the girls?" Gabrielle perked up, glad for the distraction.

"We're making progress. We have alot of new flowers and plants were working on." Zephyra rolled her eyes but stayed quiet this time. Xena reached over and gave her hand a reassuring squeeze, hoping to convey a message of patience and understanding. Zephyra glanced at her and gave a small, reluctant smile in return.

The rest of the ride continued in a similar fashion, with Xena trying to maintain a balance between her companions. She knew that this journey into the kingdom was important, not just for her own well-being, but for the unity of her closest friends. They needed to learn to work together, to support one another.

Once Xena dropped the horses and carriage off at the stables, she turned to the women, ready to outline their tasks for the day.

"Mykaleia, Gabrielle," Xena began, "you will go to the nearest temple and see if they need help with anyone who is ill."

Zephyra stood behind Xena with a smug expression, her eyes glancing at Gabrielle. Gabrielle caught the look but chose to ignore it, focusing on Xena's words.

"Zephyra and I will scout the area," Xena continued. "We need to get a schoolhouse set up for the girls to attend and another location for a project I'm working on." Gabrielle nodded, understanding the importance of their mission.

"We'll do our best, Xena," she said, trying to keep her tone even and calm despite the tension. As they walked away, Zephyra's smug expression softened slightly. She turned to Xena, her eyes brightening at the prospect of spending time alone with her.

"What do we need to do first?" Zephyra asked eagerly. Xena smiled at her enthusiasm.

"We need to find a suitable location for the schoolhouse and another large building. Somewhere central, where the girls can reach easily and safely."

They began walking through the busy streets, Xena keeping an eye out for potential sites. She noticed the curious glances and respectful nods from the townspeople as they passed. Her cloak blew slightly in the breeze, still concealing her pregnancy, but she walked with confidence.

As they walked, Xena kept an eye on the surroundings, considering various buildings and open spaces. Zephyra stayed close, her eyes darting around, taking in every detail.

"My lady, why are we in search of a building so large?" Zephyra asked, curiosity evident in her voice. Xena looked at her with a determined expression.

"I am opening a safe house for women and children who don't have a place to stay or just need help," she explained.

"Food will be free, and childcare will be free, but the adults must work. They will take the places of the young girls working in the fields. The girls in the fields will now attend school for the same number of hours as the boys. Cooking, basic care, and sewing will be added to their curriculum." Zephyra's eyes widened with admiration and understanding.

"That's a wonderful idea, my lady. It will help so many people." Xena nodded.

"That's the plan. We need to find a building large enough to accommodate them and provide space for all the activities and services we intend to offer."

As they continued their search, they examined various buildings. Finally, they came across a large, sturdy-looking structure on the corner of a busy intersection. It was the largest building for sale they had seen so far, with multiple floors and plenty of space.

"How about that building over there?" Zephyra pointed to it. "It seems spacious enough." Xena nodded, considering it.

"Let's take a closer look." They approached the building, and Xena inspected it thoroughly. The structure was solid, with large windows that would let in plenty of light. It was centrally located, as she had hoped, and seemed perfect for their needs.

"This could work," Xena said thoughtfully. "We'll need to make some modifications, but it's a good start." Zephyra beamed at the approval in Xena's voice.

"I'll help with anything you need."

"Thank you, Zephyra," Xena replied, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Your support means a lot."

They spent the next hour speaking with the owner of the building, discussing terms and arrangements. By the time they left, Xena felt accomplished. They had taken the first step towards providing a safe haven and opportunities for the women and children of the kingdom. As they resumed their walk, Xena's mind returned to the school.

"Now, let's continue our search for the schoolhouse." Zephyra nodded; her excitement clear.

"Yes, my lady." They wandered through the town, keeping an eye out for buildings that could serve as the new school. After some time, they came across a large, spacious structure near the town square. It was an old library that had fallen into disuse but still retained its charm and sturdiness. Xena's eyes lit up.

"This might be the place." They approached the building, inspecting it closely. The large windows and open layout were perfect for classrooms, and the central location made it easily accessible for the children.

"This is it," Xena declared. "We'll turn this into the school."

Zephyra grinned. "It's perfect, my lady."

With the schoolhouse and the safe house both in sight, she was well on her way to fulfilling her vision for the kingdom. As they made their way back towards the temple to meet Mykaleia and Gabrielle, Xena glanced at Zephyra.

"You did well today. Your suggestions were helpful." Zephyra's face lit up with pride.

"I'm glad I could be of use."

"You're always of use," Xena assured her with a smile.

Inside the temple, the atmosphere was chaotic and filled with the stench of sickness. Xena walked in and immediately felt overwhelmed by the smell. Her heightened senses, due to the pregnancy, made it unbearable. She quickly turned around and stepped outside to catch her breath. Zephyra followed her out with a concerned look on her face.

"My lady, are you alright?" She reached out, almost placing her hand on Xena's belly but decided to rest it on her back instead. Xena was breathing hard, trying to keep her nausea at bay.

"I'm alright," she said softly. Gabrielle had seen Xena's hasty departure. She cleansed her hands and joined them outside.

"Xena, you don't want to go back in there. The only healer is Mykaleia. The priestesses have no idea what they're doing." Xena nodded, still trying to compose herself. Zephyra continued to rub her back with a worried expression.

"Get Mykaleia out of there as soon as she's done. We need to eat. Meet us at the tavern." Gabrielle agreed.

"Sure, I'll make sure she finishes quickly." She turned back towards the temple, giving Xena a reassuring look before heading inside. Zephyra guided Xena to a nearby bench, urging her to sit and take deep breaths.

"We'll wait here for a bit, my lady. Just relax." Xena sat down, focusing on her breathing. The fresh air helped, and slowly, the nausea began to subside.

"Thank you, Zephyra. I don't know what I'd do without you." Zephyra smiled, her worry easing slightly.

"You don't have to thank me, my lady. I'm here for you, always." As they waited, Xena's thoughts wandered to the people inside the temple.

"The situation in there... it's worse than I thought. We need to find a way to get more trained healers here." Zephyra nodded in agreement.

"Yes, my lady. But for now, let's focus on getting you some food. A short while later, Gabrielle and Mykaleia emerged from the temple. Mykaleia looked tired.

"I've done what I can for now. We need to return with more supplies and help." Xena stood up, feeling steadier.

"Let's head to the tavern. We can discuss our next steps over a meal."

Xena walked into the tavern first, her demeanor strong and commanding. Men throughout the establishment turned to stare at the four women, appreciating the sight of them. A strong, muscular man finished his beer and sauntered over to Xena, whispering in her ear. The stench of beer made her eyes roll slowly.

"What's a pretty lady like you doing out here in the cold?" he asked. Zephyra spoke up immediately.

"I don't think our king would appreciate you being that close to his lady." Xena lowered her eyes at the man, her gaze icy. He replied,

"I'm sure the king wouldn't mind me keeping his lady warm." Xena turned to face him with a stern expression.

"In case you're blind, I'm warm enough with my clothing." The tavern owner quickly approached Xena, sensing the tension.

"My lady, right this way, please." She led them to an empty, clean table. After taking their orders, she asked Xena if she could speak with her privately. Xena agreed and followed the woman to a room at the back. Zephyra was about to follow, but Xena gave her a quick nod to stay. Once they were alone, the owner spoke.

"My lady, I have been feeding the girls every day for months as you requested. I am just wondering when I will be compensated, as my supplies are running low." Xena's eyes widened in surprise.

"You haven't received any kind of payment?"

"No, my lady."

"I'm so sorry. Thank you for not turning them away." Xena handed her a pouch of gold.

"This should cover the expenses for now. More will be sent soon." The owner nodded in appreciation.

Xena headed back to her seat at the table with a dark expression and her jaw clenched in frustration. Zephyra and Gabrielle exchanged concerned glances before Zephyra leaned in, her voice low but curious.

"What was that all about?" she asked, her eyes scanning Xena's face. Xena slammed the empty pouch of gold on the table, causing the plates and cups to rattle slightly.

"The tavern owner hasn't been paid. Not once. That means we have a thief in the palace," she said, her voice sharp.

"I've personally sorted her payments every week and made sure they were sent out. Someone's been intercepting them, and when I find out who it is—" The intensity in Xena's voice made everyone at the table sit up straighter. The women all looked at each other with worried expressions. Mykaleia frowned.

"A thief, in the palace?" Zephyra whispered, her hand hovering over her lips. Gabrielle spoke next.

"Xena, what do you intend on doing?" Xena's eyes flashed with anger.

"I'm going to find whoever's behind this, and when I do, they'll wish they'd never set foot in this kingdom. I won't tolerate betrayal in my own home. Whoever it is... they'll learn the hard way what happens when you cross me." Zephyra swallowed hard, her fingers nervously playing with the edge of her cloak. Gabrielle spoke again, cautiously.

"Maybe we should investigate quietly, without causing alarm. If someone in the palace is involved, we need to be careful." Xena's gaze softened slightly as she looked at Gabrielle, but the fire in her voice remained.

"We'll be careful, but that won't stop me from getting to the bottom of this. I won't let a cowardly thief tarnish what we've built here." The women nodded in agreement, but the gravity of the situation weighed heavily on them. Mykaleia finally spoke, her voice calm but concerned.

"Xena, we'll help you. Whatever you need, we'll do it."

"Good. Because when I find this traitor, it won't just be gold they'll lose."

Once they began to eat, the mood had calmed, and all three ladies shared their experiences and thoughts with Xena, who listened closely. The day had been productive, and she was eager to set her plans in motion.

As the carriage moved steadily along the path, she looked at each of her companions with gratitude. And as the sun set on another successful day, Xena stood on the palace balcony, looking out over the kingdom with accomplishment and hope. Everything was indeed working out for the greater good.

Two weeks had passed since Xena shared the information about her discoveries within the kingdom with Ulysses. During this time, Xena's plans for the school and safe house had progressed significantly. The town buzzed with excitement and curiosity about the changes happening under their queen's guidance.

Xena and Ulysses walked hand in hand through the busy streets, inspecting the progress of the renovations. The large building they had chosen for the safe house was being transformed. Workers repaired walls, installed new windows, and made other necessary modifications. The old library, now repurposed as the schoolhouse, was also getting a makeover, with desks, chairs, and learning materials being moved in. Xena and Ulysses approached the nearly completed safe house, where Zephyra was overseeing workers. Xena felt proud as she envisioned a place of safety for women and children, somewhere they could grow and learn. Zephyra greeted them, updating Xena on the progress, which was moving smoothly. The rooms were being transformed into comfortable living spaces, a dining hall, and activity areas, all according to Xena's plan.

As they toured the building, Xena pointed out the areas she had designed for dining and childcare, eager to provide a sense of community and security. Ulysses praised her efforts, reminding her that she had created something truly special. After checking on the safe house, Xena's thoughts turned to the nearby schoolhouse, which was also under renovation.

They walked over to the old library, now being converted into classrooms. The head teacher, Helena, assured Xena that preparations were nearly complete, and soon children would have a proper space to learn. Satisfied with the progress, Xena and Ulysses returned to the palace, feeling accomplished.

Back at the palace, they were greeted by Gabrielle, who had been overseeing other preparations. She reported that the women were excited and eager to grow and learn. Xena thanked her for her hard work before stepping out onto the balcony with Ulysses. Gazing out over the kingdom, Xena reflected on how much had been achieved, knowing that they were building a future their children could be proud of. Ulysses, standing beside her, echoed her thoughts, acknowledging that their vision had truly taken shape.