Chapter 4: When Silence Breaks

As he stepped inside their bedroom, the sight of Xena waiting for him sent a surge of heat through him. She was stretched out on the bed, her hair loose against the pillow, and the faint sheen on her skin glistened in the dim light. She was still aroused, and it was impossible to ignore.

Borias slid back under the covers, immediately pulling her into his arms. His hands roamed her body, his fingers brushing the curve of her hip. She was warm, her body flush against his as he kissed her neck, his lips lingering just below her ear.

"Still waiting for me, huh?" he teased, his voice low and rough.

"Don't flatter yourself," Xena replied, though her breath caught when his hand slid down her thigh. He grinned against her skin, his fingers roaming higher, finding the heat between her legs. She gasped softly as he stroked her, her wetness smearing onto his fingertips.

"I think I have plenty of reason to flatter myself," he murmured, his tone thick with desire. Xena arched into his touch, her hand tangling in his hair as their mouths met in a deep, hungry kiss. Between kisses, he pulled back slightly, his brow creasing.

"Earlier, at the village," Borias began, his voice hesitant but curious. "You looked... annoyed. What happened?" He leaned into her, his lips brushing the curve of her neck, his breath warm against her skin. Xena hesitated, her chest rising and falling. She gasped while he kissed along her collarbone.

"Those women," she finally said. "They passed Lexa around like she was some... toy." Her fingers trailed along his back, tracing the muscles there as she spoke. "One of them didn't even support her properly."

Borias paused, his lips hovering just above her shoulder, his thumb brushing along her jawline. "They what?" he asked, his tone dropping low.

"They almost hurt her," Xena said, her voice trembling slightly. She adjusted beneath him, arching as his hands moved to her waist.

"Her back bent backwards... too far. I stopped it, but it was close. Too close." Borias pulled back slightly, his thumb moving to her cheek, brushing it softly as he searched her eyes.

"You stopped it," he said firmly, his voice steady. "She's okay now. You did the right thing. You birthed her, Xena. Not them."

Xena's lips parted, her breath uneven as her fingers curled into his shoulders. His words steadied her, though the tension still clung to her.

"I don't trust them," she admitted, her voice quieter now, her hands slipping down to the small of his back. "I don't trust anyone with my children." Borias leaned down, his lips finding hers in a slow, deep kiss.

"You don't have to," he murmured against her mouth. His hand slid down her thigh, gripping it gently but possessively as he moved closer to her. "We'll protect them. You and me."

Xena let out a shaky breath, the tension in her shoulders easing under his touch. She could feel his sincerity, the honesty of his words pressing into her as his lips moved to the sensitive spot just below her ear.

"I know," she whispered, her voice cracking slightly. Her hands roamed over his back, her touch rough but needy, pulling him closer. "I know."

Borias kissed her again, his hands trailing slowly along her sides. Her moan escaped as his fingers worked her deeper, her legs wrapping around him. The conversation melted into gasps and groans. The frustration from earlier began to fade, replaced by the intimacy they always found with each other. Borias kissed her deeply, his hands gripping her hips as she arched into him.

"I've got you," he murmured, his lips brushing against hers. "And I'll always take care of them." Xena didn't reply with words, instead pulling him closer, her nails digging into his back as they lost themselves in each other once more.

Tara had been lurking near the curtains, curious and unable to help herself. She wasn't eavesdropping exactly, but she couldn't ignore the intensity radiating from inside the room. When Xena's voice grew softer, speaking about the women who had mishandled Lexa, Tara's brows creased. She admired Xena's ability to dominate a room with just a glance or a few words. She didn't need to fight to show her strength—people just knew better than to challenge her.

She leaned against the wall, listening as Borias' voice softened when he spoke to Xena. Tara's smirk faded. She'd never heard anyone talk to someone like that before—not with that much care and sincerity. Not even her own parents. He loved Xena, that much was obvious. Tara shook her head, a grin returning.

"He's so whipped," she muttered under her breath.

When Xena whispers and Borias' murmured reassurances melted into deeper growls and moans, Tara's eyes widened. "Oh gods," she muttered to herself, backing away quickly, her cheeks burning.

"I'll never unhear that." Tara looked to where Solan and Lexa were sleeping soundly. "At least the kids won't know their parents are... doing that." She shook her head, brushing her hair back as she leaned against the doorway.

She heard Xena's advice replaying in her head, Never have sex with a man. She scoffed quietly, rolling her eyes. "Right, 'never have sex with a man,' but you're in there doing exactly that," she muttered, half-annoyed.

Leaning back against the wall, she crossed her arms, half-listening to the murmurs coming from the other side of the curtain. "Guess that rule's just for the rest of us," she whispered with a smirk, her voice barely audible over the occasional creak of the bed.

Tara's grin widened slightly as she thought to herself, Maybe love isn't as useless as I thought. Despite herself, she found her respect for Xena growing in an unexpected way. Xena was a force to be reckoned with. Someday, Tara thought, she'd learn how to be just like her...without all the mushy stuff.

Satisfied with her new perspective, Tara wandered back to her pallet, shaking her head with a soft laugh. "Never a dull moment," she muttered as she laid down, pulling her blanket over herself and drifting off to the faint sound of Xena and Borias' quiet voices.

Borias sat up with a jolt, his abrupt movements waking Xena beside him. She blinked, her hand brushing his arm as she tried to steady her thoughts.

"What's wrong?" she asked, her voice low but alert.

"Lexa didn't wake up last night," he said frantically as he jumped out of bed, grabbing his pants. Xena threw the blanket around herself, her heart pounding as she followed him into the children's room. Her eyes darted to the baby's small bed, and her stomach twisted when she saw it was empty.

"Borias—" Xena's voice cracked as she turned towards him, but before either of them could spiral further, Borias noticed something out of the corner of his eye.

"There," he said, exhaling sharply, pointing towards Tara's pallet. He let out a deep breath when he saw Tara curled up with the baby against her chest, sleeping soundly. An empty bottle was next to her on the ground.

Xena let out a soft breath and walked to them, carefully lifting Bellexa out of Tara's arms. The baby stirred briefly but remained asleep, her tiny hand clutching Xena's blanket instinctively. Xena cradled her close, her protective instincts still on high alert.

"She must have fed her when she woke up," Borias murmured, his voice calmer now. Xena nodded, adjusting the baby in her arms.

"I'm taking her home today," she said firmly, her eyes narrowing slightly as she glanced at Tara still sound asleep. Borias straightened, looking at Xena curiously.

"I can take her," he offered, brushing a hand over her shoulder.

"No," Xena replied, cutting him off sharply. "I'll handle it. I know the way." Borias hesitated but eventually nodded, understanding the tone in her voice.

"Alright," he said calmly, moving towards the door. "I'll start breakfast." Xena watched him leave, her gaze softening slightly as she glanced back at Bellexa, who was now wide awake, cooing softly in her arms.

Borias moved around the small kitchen area, the smell of sizzling meat and fresh bread filling the air. Solan sat on the floor, banging two spoons together like tiny swords, while Bellexa cooed happily in her chair near Xena. Tara leaned against the doorway, watching the scene unfold.

"Breakfast is ready," Borias announced, setting a plate of food on the small wooden table. Xena settled Bellexa securely in her lap as she sat down while Tara took her place across from her.

The meal was quiet at first, everyone focusing on their plates. Borias fed Solan bits of food while Xena nibbled at hers. Tara, however, couldn't resist breaking the silence. She leaned closer to Xena, her voice dropping to a teasing whisper.

"'Never have sex with a man,' huh?" she whispered, a mischievous grin spreading across her face. "Guess that advice doesn't count when it comes to you."

Xena paused mid-bite, her eyes narrowing as she glanced at Tara. Her expression was unreadable, but the subtle lift of her brow was enough to make Tara laugh softly.

"I mean," Tara said quickly, a bit too casually, "it's not like I was listening to anything... not that there was anything to hear, right?"

Xena smirked faintly, her tone as dry as the bread on her plate. "You've got a lot to say for someone who was supposed to be asleep." Borias looked up from feeding Solan, his brow creased in confusion.

"What are you two whispering about over there?"

"Nothing!" Tara said quickly, sitting back in her chair with a cheeky grin. Xena gave her a warning look but didn't push the matter further.

As breakfast continued, Tara couldn't help but sneak another amused glance at Xena, clearly enjoying her little jab. Xena, however, remained calm, focusing on Bellexa, who had started grabbing at her mother's food with her tiny hands. The moment passed, but Tara's grin lingered, a reminder of her knack for stirring things up.

Later that morning after breakfast, Xena helped Tara onto the horse, placing her securely in front of her. Tara sighed as Xena pulled out a blindfold.

"Is this really necessary?" Tara asked, rolling her eyes.

"Yes," Xena replied bluntly, tying it snugly around Tara's head without hesitation. Tara let out a loud groan but didn't fight it. They rode in silence for a long time, the only sounds coming from the horses' hooves on the dirt trail and the occasional rustle of leaves. Tara squirmed slightly, fidgeting.

"Can I take it off now?" she finally asked.

"You can." Tara quickly pulled it off and squinted at her surroundings. She frowned, looking around with confusion.

"I don't even know where we are," she muttered. "Why blindfold me?"

"I trust no one," Xena replied flatly, keeping her focus ahead. Tara tilted her head.

"Did something bad happen to you?" Xena's expression didn't change, her jaw tightening. She didn't answer, and her silence stretched uncomfortably. Tara scoffed, crossing her arms in frustration.

"Fine. I don't care anyway," she muttered, pretending to busy herself with absolutely nothing, touching random spots on the horse. Xena's lips formed into a faint smile, though Tara couldn't see it. After a moment, Xena's voice softened, surprising her.

"Every person I've ever trusted has betrayed me. I can't risk that with my children now. No one must know where we live." Tara nodded slowly, sensing the weight of Xena's words.

"I don't remember how to get to your house," she admitted. "I just followed the tracks."

"That's exactly why I blindfolded you."

They rode for another hour before the landscape changed and they entered a busy marketplace. Tara blinked, looking around with confusion.

"Uh, Xena? I think you took a wrong turn."

"No," Xena said as she dismounted the horse. "Stay here." She tied the reins to a post and walked towards a nearby stall selling weapons.

Tara, of course, didn't stay put. She hopped down and followed Xena closely, watching as Xena scanned the stall, already distracted by the variety of goods displayed. The blacksmith, a broad-shouldered man with soot-streaked arms, greeted her.

"That's a fine blade," he said, his voice gruff but friendly. "Balanced, sharp, perfect for a warrior like yourself."

Xena didn't respond immediately. She gave the blade a slow, deliberate swing, listening to the faint whistle it made as it cut through the air. Her eyes narrowed slightly, and she handed it back.

"Too light," she said flatly.

The blacksmith raised an eyebrow but didn't argue. He reached for another weapon, a heavier, slightly curved blade with intricate etching along its length. Xena took it, gripping the hilt tightly. This time, she smiled faintly.

"This one," she said, turning the sword in her hand.

"Excellent choice," the blacksmith said, nodding. "That'll serve you well in battle."

Nearby, Tara wandered to a smaller stall selling daggers and trinkets. She picked up a small blade, examining it with curiosity.

"What about this one, Xena?" she called, holding it up. Xena glanced over, her eyes flicking to the dagger.

"For a child, maybe," she said, her tone dismissive. Tara scowled, placing it back on the table.

"Well, excuse me for trying to help." Xena ignored her, turning back to the blacksmith.

"I'll take the sword. And that armor," she said, pointing to a set of leather plating hanging on the side of the stall. The blacksmith quickly wrapped up her purchases, handing them to her with a respectful nod. Tara tilted her head.

"Why do you even need all this stuff?" she asked, pointing at the leather armor and sword. "You're already dangerous enough." Xena looked at her with a calm yet commanding expression.

"I'm forming an army again," Tara's jaw dropped.

"An army? For what?" Xena's gaze darkened slightly.

"To take over the world." Tara followed Xena back to the horse and crossed her arms.

"You know, for someone who's about to take over the world, you could be a little nicer." Xena snorted, strapping the sword to her horse.

"Niceness doesn't win wars."

Xena climbed back onto the horse and snapped the reins. "Let's go," she said firmly, leaving no room for questions. Tara scrambled up behind her, clutching Xena's waist as they rode away, her mind racing with possibilities.

Xena guided the horse steadily through the winding paths of the forest, the reins firm in her grip. Tara sat behind her with her arms loosely wrapped around Xena's waist.

Tara's mind wandered back to what Borias had said about Xena not wanting to marry, and her curiosity grew stronger with each passing moment. She had known Borias since she was a child, and he had always been kind to her. But this? This was too interesting to let go, especially after hearing them last night. Tara broke the silence with a hesitant question.

"Xena, can I ask you something?"

"Depends," Xena said without looking back.

"It's about Borias." Xena's shoulders stiffened slightly, but she kept her voice steady.

"What about him?" Tara hesitated, then decided to dive in.

"He said you didn't want to marry him. Why not?" Xena's jaw tightened.

"Marriage isn't for me."

"But he loves you," Tara pressed. "You know that, right?" Xena didn't answer, her focus seemingly fixed on the road ahead. Tara pushed further.

"I can tell you love him too. You're not as cold as you pretend to be." Xena scoffed.

"Love doesn't matter. It doesn't change anything."

"Oh, come on," Tara said teasingly. "You tried to kill Poma." Xena smirked.

"If I wanted her dead, she'd be dead. She insulted my son," Xena snapped. "That's the only reason." Tara went silent for a moment, but then her mischievous side took over again.

"So, if Borias told you he had another lover..."

"I'd cut out his heart," Xena said calmly, cutting her off. Tara burst out laughing loudly, shaking her head.

"You're scary, Xena. But you care more than you admit." Xena didn't respond, but the faintest hint of a smile touched her lips.

After a while, the dense forest turned into another village, smaller and rougher than the one they had visited earlier. The streets were quieter, the air heavier, and the faces harder. This was not a place for lighthearted conversation or idle living.

Xena slid off her horse in a single, fluid motion and helped Tara down, gripping the girl's arm firmly to keep her close.

"Stay close," Xena commanded, her voice low but sharp. "Don't speak unless I tell you to."

Tara nodded quickly, casting nervous glances at the rough-looking men gathered near a blacksmith's shop. They stood in a loose group, their clothes worn, their weapons within easy reach. These weren't ordinary villagers—they were mercenaries, deserters, and men who thrived in chaos. Xena's sharp eyes assessed each of them in turn, her lips curling faintly.

Perfect.

She walked towards the group, her steps steady and confident, her presence alone silencing their conversation. The tallest of the group, a burly man with a scar over his left eye, stepped forward, eyeing her with suspicion.

"Who are you?"

"Xena," she replied, her voice calm and commanding. The name alone made the men pause, their expressions changing from caution to recognition. The man's eyebrows lifted for a moment, his surprise clear before he quickly replaced it with a sly grin.

"The Xena? Didn't think you were still in the game."

"I'm not just in the game," Xena replied, her voice low and dangerous. "I'm rebuilding it." The man laughed, the sound dry and humorless.

"And what does the great Xena want with us?" Xena stepped closer, her piercing gaze looking over the group.

"I'm recruiting. I'm building a force that will shake the world. Join me and you'll have wealth, power, and glory beyond anything you've ever known." The men exchanged glances.

"And why should we trust you to deliver?" one of them asked. Xena didn't flinch. Instead, she closed the distance between herself and the speaker, her eyes locking onto his with an intensity that made him adjust uncomfortably.

"Because I've done it before. Follow me, and you won't just be warriors—you'll be conquerors." The weight of her words hung in the air, and the men seemed to consider her offer more seriously now. The burly man with the scar spoke again.

"You've got my attention. But if you're rebuilding, you'll need more than just us. There are others—men you'd want. Fighters." Xena tilted her head, her interest sparked.

"Where?"

The man reached into his pouch, pulling out a folded piece of parchment. He spread it open, revealing a crude map of the region.

"Here," he said, pointing to a spot deep in the forest. "There's a camp. Small but strong. Their leader is Darphus."

At the mention of Darphus, Xena's lips tightened briefly. She reached for the map, folding it carefully and tucking it into her belt.

"You've been useful," she said. "We meet here in two weeks. Be ready." The men nodded eagerly. Xena turned to leave, motioning for Tara to follow.

As they walked away, Tara couldn't keep her thoughts to herself any longer.

"That was incredible," she blurted, her voice barely above a whisper. "You're really going to form an army again?"

"Yes," Xena replied simply, not breaking her pace.

"Can I join?" Tara asked, her tone hopeful. Xena stopped abruptly, turning to face the younger girl. Her eyes narrowed, and her voice dropped to a cold, sharp edge.

"No." Tara blinked, startled by the harshness of her reply.

"Why not? I could help—"

"No," Xena repeated, stepping closer. Her voice was low and dangerous now. She put her hand around Tara's neck, squeezing it some, just to scare her.

"And if you tell Borias about any of this, I'll make sure you regret it." Tara swallowed hard, the weight of Xena's threat sinking in.

"I won't," she said quickly, her voice barely audible.

Satisfied, Xena turned and continued towards the horse, her mind already on her next move. What she didn't realize was that Tara's memory was just as sharp as hers. When Tara climbed back onto the horse, she glanced over her shoulder, mentally marking the village and the path back. She had no intention of forgetting what she had seen—or where it had happened.

The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon when Xena and Tara arrived back at the village. The sound of hooves on the dirt road drew attention, and before the horse had fully stopped, Doria came running out of the house. Kallos was close behind, his heavy steps kicking up small clouds of dust as he hurried after her.

"Tara!" Doria cried, throwing her arms around her daughter as soon as she slid off the horse. She pulled Tara into a tight hug, covering her face with kisses.

"We couldn't find you! We didn't know where you went!"

"I'm fine, I'm fine!" Tara said, squirming against her mother's arms. She tried to brush Doria's hands away as Kallos swooped in, lifting her slightly off the ground in a bear hug.

"Really, stop! I'm fine!" Tara huffed, wiggling free from her father's arms. Xena dismounted calmly, keeping her eyes on the surroundings. Tara became overwhelmed by her parents' fussing and started walking towards the house.

"I'm going inside," she muttered, brushing past them and disappearing through the door. Doria turned to Xena.

"Thank you for bringing her back. I don't know what I would've done if..." She trailed off, shaking her head as if trying to get rid of the thought. Xena gave a small nod.

"Your daughter has spirit."

"How are your children?" Doria asked, smiling warmly.

"They're fine," Xena replied dryly. She glanced briefly at the doorway before mounting her horse again.

"Keep a better eye on her. She's trouble." Doria smiled sheepishly, nodding in agreement.

"I'll try." Unseen by Xena, Poma watched the exchange from the shadows of a nearby hut. Her eyes narrowed as she saw Xena ride off. She slipped around to her own horse, mounted it quietly, and waited until Xena had disappeared down the path.

Poma smirked to herself, adjusting her reins. She kept her distance, letting the tracks in the dirt guide her. The faint hoofprints were easy to follow, even as the forest began to thicken. She made sure to stay far enough back, knowing full well that Xena would sense even the slightest pursuit if she was too close.

Back at their home, Borias sat on a log outside, the exhaustion from the day's work pressing heavily on him. His shirt was streaked with dirt and sweat, his muscles aching from hauling wood and hammering beams. He worked hard to expand the house before winter came.

Lexa sat in her baby chair nearby, her tiny hands waving as she babbled softly to herself. Borias glanced at her, his tired face softening into a small smile. He walked over to check on Solan, who was sitting on a blanket a few feet away, stacking and knocking over sticks with the focus only a toddler could muster.

"Good job, buddy," Borias muttered, ruffling Solan's blonde curls. The boy giggled, clapping his hands before grabbing another stick.

The sky was darkening now and the first stars began to shine through the canopy above. Borias stretched his sore muscles. He glanced towards the edge of the clearing and creased his brows. Xena should've been back by now. Even if she'd taken her time dropping Tara off, she should've returned long before the moon rose high in the sky.

The uneasy feeling gnawed at him. He couldn't help but imagine the worst—another fight like the one with Poma, or something even more dangerous. His jaw tightened as he glanced back at his children. He couldn't leave them here alone, but the thought of Xena out there without backup made him restless.

Unable to settle his nerves, he walked to the stable and began saddling the horse. He worked quickly but quietly, not wanting to wake Lexa, who was now sleeping, or distract Solan. Once the horse was ready, he turned to gather the children. He placed Lexa carefully into a sling he tied to his chest and carried Solan, still clutching his sticks, over to the horse. He was just about to mount when he heard the faint sound of hooves approaching.

Borias froze, his breath catching as he turned towards the sound. He was relieved when he saw Xena riding into the clearing, her figure outlined by the soft glow of the moon.

He set Solan down on the ground, put Lexa back into her chair, and walked to her quickly. After she dismounted, he grabbed her arm firmly.

"Where have you been?" he demanded. "Do you have any idea how late it is?" Xena yanked her arm free, her sharp gaze locking onto his.

"I took the scenic route," she said nonchalantly, brushing past him. Borias stood there for a moment, watching her walk inside the house. His shoulders sagged slightly as he exhaled, the tension in his chest easing.

"Scenic route," he muttered under his breath. "Right."

Inside the house, Xena tossed her gear onto a chair and began untying her boots. Borias stood near the doorway with his arms crossed, watching her closely, his jaw clenched tight. She acted as though she'd spent the day on a leisurely ride, completely ignoring the work and stress she had left behind.

Xena pulled her tunic over her head, tossing it aside, leaving her in just her undergarments. Borias' anger rose as she walked towards the basin they used for bathing, picking up a cloth and dipping it into the water. She started washing herself as if nothing was wrong.

"You've got some nerve," Borias said finally, his voice low but seething. Xena didn't look at him, continuing to wipe herself down.

"Do I?" Borias stepped closer, his fists tightening at his sides.

"You were out all day, riding around, 'exploring,' while I was here. With the children. Building the house. Tending to the animals. Picking the garden. All of it." Xena shrugged slightly, her tone dry.

"You seemed to have it under control." Borias' jaw tightened further, and he exhaled sharply through his nose.

"That's not the point, Xena. You didn't even think to check if I needed help before you decided to stay out so late?" Xena finally turned to face him. He could tell she didn't care.

"You're capable. You've always handled things well." Her dismissiveness was the last straw. Borias threw up his hands, pacing the small space before glaring at her again.

"You're selfish," he said, his voice rising. "You only think about yourself. You don't lift a finger around here unless it suits you. It's always been about you. And you know what? Maybe I should have stayed with Natasha." Xena froze, her eyes narrowing dangerously as his words hung in the air.

"What did you just say?" Her voice was icy and sharp. Borias didn't back down, his chest heaving from his frustration.

"You heard me," he said, his voice lower. Xena took a threatening step towards him. Her voice turned venomous, a growl underlying her words.

"Natasha? That's what you're thinking about while I'm here, raising your children and living in this half-built shack you call a home?" Xena's voice was sharp, her eyes daring him to respond. Borias stepped closer, his jaw tightening.

"You're here? Really? Because all I see is someone who checks out the moment their eyes open. I'm the one raising these kids, keeping everything together while you vanish whenever it suits you." He gestured around them, his voice rising.

"You want to act like you're sacrificing everything, Xena? You're not. I'm the one picking up the pieces when you're gone. You think this place is a mess? Fine. But at least I'm here trying to make something for us while you're out chasing—whatever it is you're chasing." Xena's laugh was sharp and humorless.

"Don't you dare. Don't you dare act like you're the only one keeping this together, Borias. You think this is the life I wanted? You build this pathetic little life and expect me to smile and go along with it? It makes me sick. Everything about you is a mistake, Borias! Everything." Borias finally snapped.

"Then why stay, Xena? Why? If I'm such a mistake, if this life disgusts you so much, why don't you leave?" His voice thundered, echoing off the walls. Xena's laugh was icy and cruel.

"Because I want to see just how much lower you can go. Watching you fumble around, pretending to be something you're not—it's pathetic, Borias. Almost entertaining."

The room crackled with tension as Xena glared at Borias, her fury clear in every sharp breath she took. She stepped closer, her voice low and dangerous.

"Maybe you should run back to Natasha. Because the thought of marrying you makes me want to puke!" Borias' face hardened, his jaw tightening.

"Choose your next words carefully, Xena"

"Or what?" she spat, taking another step forward. "You'll leave? Go ahead! Or better yet, Poma's waiting with open legs." Borias froze, her words hitting him like a punch. His jaw clenched, and his hands curled into fists at his sides.

"You don't mean that," he said, his voice trembling with restraint. Xena's laugh was harsh, cutting through the silence.

"Don't tell me what I mean. You think I don't know what I'm saying?" His nostrils flared, and in two steps, he closed the distance between them. Before Xena could say another word, he grabbed her arms and shoved her back against the wall. She gasped, but her glare didn't falter.

"You're pushing me, Xena," Borias growled, his voice low and trembling with anger. "Say one more thing like that." Xena smirked coldly, leaning in as if daring him.

"What are you going to do? Finally grow a spine? You're softer than a piece of cotton, Borias. No wonder Natasha or Poma would put up with you. They're weak—just like you." Borias slammed his hand against the wall beside her head, his body vibrating with fury.

"You don't get to talk to me like that," he hissed, his face inches from hers. "I gave up everything to be with you," he growled. "Everything! And this is what I get? A woman who can't see past her own damn pride?"

"Everything?" Xena let out a bitter laugh. "You had nothing to give up, Borias! You clung to me because I made you. Without me, you're nothing."

His grip on her arms tightened slightly, and for a moment, his eyes searched hers, as though trying to find the woman he had fought beside, the woman he had loved. But all he saw was her cold, unyielding mask.

"Is this what you want, Xena?" he asked through gritted teeth. "To tear me down? To see me broken? Is that the only way you know how to live?" Her smirk faded, her expression hardening.

"I don't need to tear you down, Borias. You're doing that just fine on your own."

His body tensed as though he might snap, but then, with a sharp exhale, he released her and took a step back. Xena stayed pressed against the wall, her eyes locked on him, still burning with anger. Borias shook his head, his jaw tight as he turned away.

"You're unbelievable," he muttered. "You think you're so strong, but you're just a coward. Afraid to feel anything. Afraid to let anyone in." Xena didn't respond, but her silence was louder than words. Borias grabbed his shirt from a nearby chair and stormed towards the door.

"Where are you going?" Xena finally asked.

"Anywhere but here," he shot back without turning around. "I need air."

He slammed the door behind him, the sound echoing through the house like a final blow. Xena stood there for a moment, her breathing heavy, her fists clenched at her sides.

Xena stepped outside, her eyes scanning the darkened clearing. She spotted her children where Borias had left them, Solan sitting on his blanket and Lexa nestled in her baby chair. Borias' figure was disappearing into the thick woods with heavy steps. She didn't call out to him, didn't try to stop him. Screw him. Her jaw clenched as she approached her children, her heart still pounding from their argument. Solan looked up at her and immediately reached out his arms, his little face crumpling into a whine.

"Mama," he whimpered, his voice trembling.

Xena scooped him up with one arm, balancing him on her hip while she crouched to grab Lexa's chair with her other hand. The baby stirred, her tiny hands twitching as she began to fuss. Both of them were hungry, and Xena knew she had to stay calm for their sake.

"Shh," she murmured, rocking Lexa gently as she carried them back towards the house. "Mama's got you."

Once inside, Xena set Solan down in his chair and placed Lexa on her lap. Her eyes looked at the table to the meal Borias had prepared for them. The sight made her chest tighten.

Pushing the thoughts aside, she grabbed a plate and filled it with food. She sat down at the table, balancing Lexa in one arm as she began to nurse the baby. With her free hand, she cut pieces of food and fed them to Solan, who eagerly took bites. Xena ate as well though her mind raced. Borias' words replayed in her head, each one digging deeper into her already frayed nerves.

"I should have chosen Natasha."

She clenched her teeth, stabbing her fork into the food with more force than necessary. Solan giggled at the sound, oblivious to the storm brewing in his mother's mind. Xena's gaze softened briefly as she looked at him, wiping a bit of food from his cheek.

Lexa nursed quietly, her tiny fingers curling and uncurling against Xena's breast. The warmth of her baby against her chest was grounding, but it wasn't enough to silence the thoughts swirling in her head.

She thought of Borias, of his face twisted in anger, of his parting words. She thought of the life they had built together—the house, the children, the brief moments of peace that always seemed to be followed by chaos. And yet, as she sat there feeding her children, her jaw set and her heart heavy, one thought rose above the rest.

I don't need him. Not now. Not ever. But even as she thought it, a small part of her—a part she refused to acknowledge—wondered if that was entirely true.