I liked the play of Xena and Ares at the beginning of this chapter. Interesting that Xena can hurt him and through their bond as soulmates, so can Gabrielle. Xena and Ares have always had this love-hate relationship, so although Xena may get a kick outta punching him in the nose once in a while, but Ares and Gabrielle don't share that same bond. If I were him I'd be very cautious of Gabrielle. Will be fun to see what she does to him.. lol.

As for the rest of the chapter... Interesting progression of the story. The cards have just been shown, now it's time to see who has the better hand.

Great interaction between Xena & Ares in this chapter. That punch was very satisfying. It's strange to see him as a child amongst these more powerful Gods.I even felt sorry Tezcatlipoca being at their mercy and he's a villain.

I really liked the interaction between Huitzilopitchli and Xena at the beginning of this chapter. I think it illustrates how Xena has really changed. She can truly see the good behind Huitzilopitchli's deeds and can vocalize that as well.

I'm getting a kick outta Lila too. I think she's one of those characters who never really got great play. She had a big influence on Gabrielle (seemly the only family members she ever really liked) and it's nice to see her grow and develop into her own person... not just "Gabby's sister."

Akemi and friend are really racking up the enemy points. I somehow beleive that in the end Akemi will suffer a worser fate than any other dead warrior. Her friend Ehecatl, well he's just digging his grave deeper and deeper. At least now Lila knows what Gabrielle had to deal with in Akemi in fighting for Xena's affections. At least Amoxtli and Tlaloc are with Lila to protect Lila in some small way. But little do they know what they will be up against once the Mexica gods have formed their alliance. Huitzilopochtli and Xena have come to an agreement when it comes to Gabrielle and her love. It seems some things are working out in Gabrielle's favor after all. :D

Xena is very noble in this chapter. I even felt a little sorry for Huitzilopochtli.

Lila continues to be feisty which I like very much and Akemi - well that girl's got a screw loose for sure.

You can tell that Lila is related to Gabrielle, way to go Lila.
Really clever how you have incorporated parts of the series into the story, especially the deatiled description of Dahak.
Glad that Gabrielle and Huitzilopochtli have made peace, sort of. He was misguided and wrong but he genuinely loved her. Xena was certainly very tolerant and relaxed definitely a reversal between Gabrielle and Xena!
Clever Tlaloc, all the characters are postioning themselves well...

Great to see Lila has her sister's defiant spirit. Whatever is Xena going to say to that God? Can't wait to be a fly on the wall for that conversation.

Love this. I think definitely Akemi has issues - really hope she gets her just desserts for all the pain she's inflicting.

Xena is written very well in this scene. It's nice to see her being so open and such a rock of support for Gabrielle.

Darn, I'm behind. Akemi, Akemi, Akemi. Gosh that women is evil. I don't know which would be more eviler, Tezcatlipoca or her. Anywho, she's definitely bent on getting Xena back, and torturing Gabrielle, thru her sister Lila. But little does she know that Gabrielle is going to have help from Huitzilopochtli and his fellow mexica gods. I think him apoligizing for what he had done to Gabrielle will help heal a lot of pain Gabrielle felt at betraying Xena. I hope that Gabrielle ponders how truly lucky she is, just to be alive and have him apologize. :D

damn how more chapters is this going to be LOL. Good job

Well I've only just found this story. I have devoured every chapter with eagerness. Gripping. Can't wait for more

great job on this chapter

Nice description between Gabrielle and Xena. Great that they are working things through and ironic that their situation is reversed. Looks like Lila will be a main factor in the story and that alliances are being formed...

Nice to see that the gods are rallying and soon will change Mexica, or at least try to change it. It will be interesting to see where this goes and how the battle that is brewing pans out.

Also, Great job with the emotions here. Xena got a little 'gooey' but not too bad, it was necessary. It's nice to see some real healing going on between X&G. They have been through so much, and usually the story ends when ever the conflict is over, one doesn't get to see their inner struggles so much.

Thanks for sharing this tale, no matter how long it gets.. I say go for it ;)

I cringe at the fact at not only Akemi wants revenge against Gabrielle, but this evil Itzpapalotl. It's sad that Akemi was used and probably beaten by her father, and Xena only fanned the flames of that hate and pain. But knowing Akemi has the power of Cthulon makes them both more dangerous than ever. Ehecatl seems to have some type of feelings for Akemi, but you wonder if he's not as sick as she is. I wonder now when Xena and Gabrielle find out that Akemi is still alive and after Lila, what powers will they fight her with, with the pendent dangling as a threat? Lila has some very strong people in her corner,but will it be enough? :D