Disclaimer & Notices

Please see the Prologue for disclaimers and notices.

Started: June 6, 2008

Series 9: Destiny of Mine – Story #3

by Red Hope

Chapter 15

Queen Gabrielle of the Macedonia Amazon Nation curled her left hand around the leather collar of her white and brown duster. She didn't realize how her nails dug into her staff as she solemnly stared at the crude sign that leaned to the right at the fork in the road. She swallowed and stared at the tooled arrow that pointed to the left road. She again reread Amphipolis perfectly spelled in Greek on the sign.

Gabrielle slightly bowed her head and stared at the gravel under her boots. But her eyes fluttered when the cool breeze caused her bangs to tickle her eyelashes. From behind came the gentle grind of gravel under boots, and Gabrielle closed her eyes once she sensed her best friend's approach.

"It's time," the Conqueror gently announced to the Amazon Queen.

The bard clenched the soft collar tighter then raised her head. Now she noticed the dull ache behind her nails thanks to her grip. She finally met sky blue eyes that worriedly studied her. "It is time," she murmured.

Xena edged closer despite all the hoplites and Amazons were an audience. She gingerly touched her friend's mid-back. "You will make it to Amphipolis a candlemark or so after sunset."

Gabrielle softly cleared her throat, nodded, and glanced back at the sign. For an umpteenth time she inwardly struggled with asking Xena to accompany them to Amphipolis, but she would not put her friend in that position. She knew it was for selfish reasons, and she knew it was her time to be as strong as her Nation saw her. She inhaled deeply, looked away from the sign, and focused back on the Conqueror, who was her leader, hero, and best friend.

"You can do this, Gabrielle," the ruler insisted. Her confidence brightened her eyes to an unusual blue.

Gabrielle loosened her death hold on her staff and nodded. "I will." Yet her attention cut to the left when Ephiny approached them on her mount.

Ephiny stilled her horse a few paces from the queen and Conqueror. "We're going to start down the road, my queen." She gave a faint tilt and hoped her queen would understand her meaning behind the idea. "At a slow pace," she insisted.

The bard had a suspicious expression until it hit her, and the appreciation instantly showed on her face. "Thank you, Ephiny. I won't be long."

"Do not hasten, my queen." Ephiny twisted back in her saddle and called the Amazons to ride down the road to Amphipolis. She remained ahead of the group.

The Conqueror was forced closer to the Amazon Queen as the Amazons rode past them. She was about to focus back on Gabrielle, but she was stopped by the dekadarchos's horse. She tilted her head until she met his gaze. "Yes, dekadarchos?"

Officer Cyryl was slightly nervous under his leader's hard stare, but he gathered himself after he made an earlier agreement with Ephiny. He adjusted his horse's reins in his hands. "I will continue the march to Pella, my liege." He adjusted his heels in the stirrups. "At a slow pace," he added.

The Conqueror gave a fast glance to her best friend then arched an eyebrow at Officer Cyryl. She had wondered earlier what the dekadarchos was discussing with Ephiny. "I'll be along shortly."

The dekadarchos was relieved that his leader was in agreement because he wasn't sure about Ephiny's idea, initially. "Of course, my liege." He turned in the saddle then ordered the hoplites to continue on the western road to Pella. He led them away from the right fork.

The Conqueror stared down the road until the last hoplite's horse was from sight. She gazed back at her best friend.

"As if that wasn't planned out," Gabrielle quipped. She relaxed some when Xena's grin spread over those full lips.

"That was certainly convenient," Xena joked back. But after a beat, she lost her grin and became more sadden. "I will miss you."

Gabrielle closed her eyes at the soft confession from her best friend. She peered back up and freed her hand from her duster's collar. She cupped Xena's cheek and murmured, "I won't be able to stop thinking about you."

The Conqueror edged closer until their bodies met at the middle of the fork. "I will be watching you."

Gabrielle had a weak smile at her friend's promise. She knew that Xena would not let anything happen to her. "If you change your mind then maybe Thrace will change her mind too."

Xena was quiet for a moment then whispered, "Perhaps." She lowered her head closer. "Please be safe." She enjoyed the warmth from Gabrielle's hand.

Gabrielle searched her friend's eyes as her thumb gently stroked over the crest of Xena's cheek. "You too."

"Promise," Xena swore.

Gabrielle nodded back her agreement then drew Xena down closer. She slipped her eyes closed once her chilled lips met Xena's in a slow, searching kiss. She could already feel the ache growing in her chest that would overwhelm her later tonight once she was alone in Xena's bedroom.

Xena pulled out from the long kiss and gasped for air because normally well hidden emotions drove through her chest and swelled her throat. She blinked back a faint sting then offered Gabrielle a smile that couldn't reach her eyes or fill her cheeks.

Gabrielle broke inside and whimpered, "Oh gods." She dropped her staff then hastily wrapped her arms around her friend.

Xena returned the feverish hug and hid her face in Gabrielle's neck. She had a shaky breath once she realized how this affected her. She hadn't expected it at all despite her preparedness over the passing nights.

Gabrielle clung to her childhood friend and gathered her strength. She finally managed the words that she hadn't spoken to Xena in carefully counted Helical Risings. She brought her lips close to Xena's ear and whispered, "I love you." Immediately Xena's arms tightened around her, and she heard a rasp from the normally stoic ruler.

"I love you too, Bri," Xena softly replied after a beat. It eased some pain in her throat.

Gabrielle remained silent and still in her best friend's arms. She could tell they both were gathering the strength it required to separate from each other for unknown moons.

Xena squeezed her eyes tighter and clenched her teeth then suddenly forced herself to face reality. She started withdrawing and gently ordered, "Go." She fought her internal need to protect her best friend.

Gabrielle sensed the battle inside of the ruler. She was freed from Xena, who took one step back. She now saw the tension shaking the great ruler's body. She quickly collected her staff, came close to Xena again, and gingerly touched her friend's covered arm.

"Go," the Conqueror repeated in a strangled tone. "And remember I will be watching."

The bard squeezed her best friend's arm once, let go, and tenderly revealed, "I will miss you too, Xena." She turned her head away and discovered the immeasurable weight in her boots as she fought to take her first step away. She fisted her freehand at her side and forced a second step towards the south road to Amphipolis. She headed right to Torqueo, who had patiently waited for her like Argo waited for Xena.

The Conqueror remained motionless, but she listened to Gabrielle's slowly quieting steps on the stones. Then there was the movement of the saddle and jingle from reins. She dropped her head back and clenched her hands under her black cape. She could feel a dark fire building in her stomach at thoughts of her best friend going head first into the Romans, her greatest enemy. She turned her head to the left and made out Gabrielle's figure for a heartbeat before the hoof beats faded away. Gabrielle was gone.

The Conqueror took a slow and deep breath that gave her a scrap of control over her natural tendency to protect her childhood friend. She focused on Argo and told herself to mount the horse then ride off. After she loosened her fists, she took a few steps then broke into a sprint towards her golden mare. She gave a low warcry and vaulted into the saddle with ease. She gathered the reins, tapped Argo's ribs, and hurried off for her hoplites.

The Amazon Queen glanced back over her shoulder when she made out her friend's faint but distinct battle cry. She sighed because she knew Xena would not come for her despite they both yearned to stay together. She shook it off, straightened in the saddle, and squeezed her horse's sides so she could catch up with her Amazons.

Ephiny twisted around in her saddle when she heard the approaching horse from behind. She'd shifted to the rear of the Amazon party once they were away from the fork. She wanted to be the first to see Gabrielle.

The Amazon Queen slowed her stallion into a trot once she neared the rear of the party. She noted Ephiny had slowed her horse until they were beside each other.

Ephiny ducked her head and carefully asked, "Are you okay?"

Gabrielle only nodded in response.

Ephiny held back a sigh and her worry wasn't settled. She knew how hard this would be on Gabrielle. She jus hoped it wouldn't distract the queen so greatly that it hurt them during the battle against Legio IV.

"I want to make it to Amphipolis by nightfall," Gabrielle informed. Her tone was harder than she planned it to be, but it was all she could do to handle her emotions. "I don't want to be out on the road…" She was looking straight ahead but now cut her eyes to Ephiny. "Not with Hecht out there."

Ephiny inclined her head in agreement but reminded, "Seven was confident that he would not bother us."

"I know," the bard murmured. "But let's not give him any opportunity for another chance."

The Amazon budged her gelding closer to the queen. "He will not have another chance."

Gabrielle was studying her Amazons ahead of them. She noted how Seven of Nine had a gentle tilt to her head, and she wondered if the automaton could hear them even from here. "No, I suspect not." Briefly ideas about Xena hunting Hecht passed through Gabrielle's mind. She let those ideas go then tapped Torqueo's sides. She broke away from Ephiny and easily slipped past her Amazons. She adjusted the reins only into her right then twisted around in her saddle.

"We ride to Amphipolis, Amazons," Queen Gabrielle hollered. "Yaa!" She spurred her horse into a gallop. She made out the other Amazons following her lead.

The small Amazon party galloped on the south-western road for several candlemarks during the afternoon. They only broke for half a candlemark in order to rest the horses, eat a snack, and relax before they arrived at the small city. The mood among the Amazons was somber at best because everybody detected the queen's distraught emotions. Nobody commented or confronted her since they knew it'd take a few days for their queen to settle down. It was obvious how close Queen Gabrielle and the Conqueror had become in the past moon during the visit to the Thrace Nation.

Gabrielle was relieved to be back on the road after the break. She felt increasingly restless and the riding provided some focus for her. She worked on plans for Amphipolis and how to defeat the Romans. She felt better prepared thanks to all the knowledge Xena passed onto her. By the time they'd make it to Amphipolis, Gabrielle would have a step by step plan mapped out in her head. She needed that if she were to stay focused and not get bogged down by the emptiness she now felt deep in her. There was far too much and too many depending on her skills and knowledge for her to get lost in her own personal issues.

Just after dusk, Gabrielle slowed Torqueo in front of a newly placed welcome sign for Amphipolis just before the Strymon River Bridge. She sadly smiled at the gold letters that proudly displayed the city's name. She squeezed Torqueo's sides and trotted across the bridge with her Amazons in tow. Not much further ahead she saw the open gates to the city, and her childhood memories swept over her.

Ephiny trotted to the queen's side once the party settled into a walk for the gates. She glanced at the queen's profile and saw emotions flicker across her friend's face. "Where shall we go first?"

"To Cyrene's taverna," Gabrielle replied after a beat. She went quiet once they were passing through the gates. She studied the few guards, who did not seem at all concerned about a pending war. She slotted her eyes and shifted in her saddle some. She bit her lower lip.

Ephiny took note of how calm the city was once they entered it. She only noticed a few hoplites sprinkled here or there that were a part of the local militia most likely. She edged her horse closer to the queen and murmured, "It is quiet."

"Yes." The queen was scanning the city, the people, and the homes. "They have no idea what's coming for them." She sniffed hard once the scent of food passed under her nose. She glanced off to her left at the small taverna that was a competitor to Cyrene's. "We'll stable our horses at Cyrene's too."

Ephiny bobbed her head because she recalled the stable, taverna, and inn all linked together. It'd been many moons since she'd come to Amphipolis, but she hadn't forgotten it. She dismounted from her horse once Gabrielle stopped in front of the stable.

The queen climbed off Torqueo then glanced at her Amazons, who had done the same. "Find yourself a stall, get your horses untacked, and meet outside the stable when you're ready." She and the Amazons filed into the stable and were happy to find stalls for each horse.

Seven was the first done, and she waited outside the stable with her saddlebags on her right shoulder. She stared at the taverna that was owned by the Conqueror's mother. It felt eerie for Seven to soon be meeting the mother of her father's killer. Quiet footsteps made her glance over her shoulder despite she already knew it was the queen.

The bard had her saddlebags over her left shoulder and her staff in her right hand. She caught the automaton's distraught manner before it was gone from Seven's face. She gently tried, "Seven…" But she faltered because Solari and Andra had come out too.

The automaton dipped her head some at the queen then looked back at the taverna.

"She makes the best food," Solari praised to the blacksmith.

Gabrielle had a half grin at Solari's words. She then noted the rest of the group coming so she signaled them to follow her. She climbed the steps in slow motion as if her boots again were filled by stones. She paused in front of the closed door but pushed it open and was instantly greeted by countless stares. Several hushes passed by her ears.

The Amazon Queen ignored them and passed through the open aisle made between the tables. She considered whether she'd been better off coming in alone at first rather than making an Amazon parade out of herself. She shrugged it off and finally laid her eyes upon a head with salt and pepper hair just under the bar's top.

From all the traffic noise in her taverna, Cyrene straightened up with three mugs in each hand. She went stiff and her eyes grew wide upon seeing all the armed women in her establishment. Then she met the face she knew so well after countless seasons.

"Gabrielle," Cyrene breathed in excitement. She immediately set her mugs down then rushed around the bar. "By the gods… you are here." She warmly smiled at the young woman.

Gabrielle quickly set her saddlebags on the nearest stool then caught Cyrene in her left arm for a fierce hug. "Gods… it's good to see you, Cyrene." She kissed the woman's temple.

Cyrene slipped one arm between the duster and tightly hugged Gabrielle, who'd become another daughter to her many moons ago when Xena first befriended Gabrielle. She withdrew from the hug but held the Amazon's covered shoulders. "Why are you here?" She now worriedly looked at the seven Amazons that pooled around the bard.

Gabrielle slightly frowned but brought Cyrene's attention back to her when she spoke. "We can talk about it later." She didn't want to say it here before all the townspeople. She couldn't be sure if anybody knew about the legion coming for Amphipolis. "We all need rooms, please."

"Of course." Cyrene glanced back at the Amazons and recognized two of them, especially Solari. The second Amazon she knew from seasons ago, and her name wasn't coming to Cyrene just yet.

"Thank you, Cyrene," the bard whispered. She tried hiding her weariness, but she saw how Cyrene read her, easily.

"Why don't you take Xena's room. I'll get the other Amazons into rooms," Cyrene offered. She then saw her barmaid coming out of the kitchen. She told the barmaid she'd be back in a few moments after she got the Amazons settled into various rooms.

Gabrielle thanked the innkeeper again then told her Amazons to follow Cyrene. She then stole away from the group because Xena's bedroom was upstairs near Cyrene's room. She briefly remained poised on the steps near the hall to the guestrooms. She watched her Amazons follow the innkeeper then she went upstairs.

Cyrene only had enough vacant rooms to pair up the Amazons. She could tell they already knew who to pair with so she pointed out the free rooms for them. She came to the last pair, who was Solari and the other woman she recognized, and it finally hit her.

"Ephiny, how have you been?" Cyrene was grateful her aging memory wasn't that bad after all, especially when Ephiny smiled at her.

"I've been well, Cyrene. You?" Ephiny allowed Solari to enter first while she remained in the hall with Xena's mother.

"Pretty good for an old lady," the innkeeper joked. "It has been some time since I last saw you."

"Yes," Ephiny softly granted, "And you don't look a day older." After meeting Xena, Ephiny now considered Xena's looks compared to her mother's. She could see where Xena obtained the blue eyes.

Cyrene brushed off the Amazon. "Liar." She flashed a brief smile before she started down the hall. "I will have meals prepared for everybody in half a candlemark or so."

"Thank you," Ephiny kindly replied. She slipped away into her room and was even more grateful to see the large bed. "Gods."

Solari was over by the window and looking out at the quiet city. "They have no idea… do they?" She looked over her shoulder at her friend.

Ephiny set her saddlebags down next to Solari's on the table. She slipped over to the other Amazon. "No, I don't think so." She caught her friend's worried look.

Solari sighed and looked at the torchlit city again. "Gabrielle is going to have to break it to them." She shook her head. "Gods only know how they will react… and even if they'll believe her."

"Why would they not?" Ephiny was perplexed and stared at Solari's dim profile. She was one of the few that ever witnessed or even knew about Solari's more serious side. This was one of the few times that Solari was anything but the Gossip Queen.

Solari met her friend's stare. "I've heard of Xander."

"The nauarchos?" Ephiny checked.

Solari nodded. "He is an asshole, Eph… I mean he makes Cortese look sweet."

Ephiny blew up some air then leaned her shoulder against the window frame. "Great… just what we need."

Solari shook her head and mentioned, "I hope Gabrielle can charm the pants off him because otherwise… that Delian League is going to sink Amphipolis."

"I guess Gabrielle is going to have to be ready for the part where the league may not help." Ephiny bowed her head at this line of thought.

"Maybe," Solari granted after a quiet beat. "Let's just hope Xander doesn't have much influence over the local militia."

Ephiny kept her head down and considered the bleak future. Her earlier worries started twisting into small knots of fear.

Above Ephiny and Solari's room, Queen Gabrielle was sitting on her best friend's bed and trying not to emotionally cave into herself. She peered up at the ceiling and blinked away a growing sting. She started getting annoyed with herself and shoved off the bed. She went to the open window where she heard some voices out on the street.

"Where are you camped tonight, Xena?" the bard murmured outside. She reached up and removed her queen's mask that felt heavier today than most days. She set it on the sill and studied it. The dark holes of the eyes peered back up at her. Gabrielle imagined what her life would be like if she weren't the queen or even an Amazon. But even in that life, she couldn't be sure she'd meet Xena again.

After a hefty sigh, Gabrielle looked up from the mask and watched the quiet city. It'd be only a matter of a fortnight or so that the Roman legion would be storming this small city. If Gabrielle didn't prepare the militia, her army, and Cyane's army then the Fates only know what would happen to the people.

A gentle knock echoed against the door, and Gabrielle was drawn away from her dark thoughts. She gently called the person in and wasn't surprised to see Cyrene. She left the window, set her mask on her duster and saddlebags. She gave Cyrene a full hug that was much longer than earlier. This time both her hands were free since her staff was against the wall near the door.

Cyrene held the young woman, who seemed so run down. She could account for all of Gabrielle's changes, and not just the physical ones. She sensed a great pressure on the bard's shoulders than the last time she visited her before the Battle of the Fates. There wasn't much that Cyrene missed between Gabrielle's letters and the rumors.

Gabrielle straightened up but still loosely held Cyrene's waist. She gave a weak smile once she saw Cyrene's calm features.

"How is she?" Cyrene murmured.

The bard's weak smile slightly strengthened but her eyes went glossy. "She's doing really well, Mom."

Cyrene breathed deeply and nodded at good news. It relieved her to hear just that little bit about her daughter. "You two…"

Gabrielle knew the unfinished question, and she nodded.

Cyrene was happy to hear they were friends again. She pressed her palm warmly against her adopted child's cheek. "I hope I get to gaze upon her again."

"I know." The bard took Cyrene's hand into hers. "You will…soon." She covered Cyrene's hand with her other hand. "She's gorgeous, Cyrene." She mirrored the innkeeper's bittersweet smile. "She's as tall as a tree." She traded a laugh with Cyrene. "Her hair is long and dark as a moonless night. But her eyes… still bright as a clear summer day."

Cyrene hadn't lost her smile but her eyes burned. She kept listening to Gabrielle's description of her grown child.

"Her voice it's…" Gabrielle tried finding the word and shook her head. "She can silence a crowd and yet sooth away one's nightmare." She watched how a few tears trailed down Cyrene's cheeks. "Her smile is beautiful… it still stops my heart. And when we laughed together, it was like we were kids again." She now wiped away the mother's tears.

"Does she dress like… like a hoplite?" Cyrene was visualizing her daughter thanks to Gabrielle's vivid description.

"Not at all… she is a warrior, not a soldier." Gabrielle developed pride in her smile. "She wears black leather and wire armor for some protection. Her sword is on her back… and a black cape that makes her seem even taller." She had a small grin. "Her presence stills anybody's breath."

Cyrene shook her head and murmured, "I'm not the least surprised."

Gabrielle squeezed Cyrene's hand then finally let go. "She was born for this."

"Yes," Cyrene softly agreed. She couldn't argue the truth. She then became more concerned and asked, "How are you making out?"

Gabrielle felt transparent around Cyrene. She lost her earlier grin and gave a faint nod. "I miss her… already." She toyed with her short hair.

"I know." The innkeeper tipped Gabrielle's head back up. "You will see her again." She lowered her hand then a concerned look came over her. She had knit eyebrows and thin lips. "Why have you come to Amphipolis? Fall is coming quickly, and you should be returning home."

Gabrielle parted her lips some but faltered at what she had to tell Cyrene. There was no simple or gentle way to tell this woman that her hometown was about to be attacked by an enormous Roman legion.

"Gabrielle?" the mother gently urged.

The bard bit her lip then shook her head. "We came because…" She read the growing fear in Cyrene's eyes. "There is a Roman legion headed this way... they're headed for Amphipolis."

Cyrene was jarred by the news and stared at the bard. She didn't believe it, at first.

"Xena found out from her spies that they're marching here. They mean to conqueror Amphipolis then the rest of Thrace." Gabrielle swallowed hard at seeing the horrified look on Cyrene's face.

"By the gods," Cyrene whispered as her features sunk. She then shook her head and weakly argued, "It can't be true." But Gabrielle's unchanging expression remained honest. Cyrene sensed the increased speed to her own heart, and she lowered her eyes. She quickly met the bard's stare and softly asked, "What of Xena?"

Gabrielle parted her lips slightly but the words were not easy. She realized telling Cyrene that her daughter was not coming was far harder than telling all of Amphipolis that the Romans were coming for them. She sensed Cyrene already knew the answer, but Gabrielle made herself say it, aloud. "Xena isn't coming, Cyrene." She searched the heartbroken mother's eyes.

Cyrene started shaking her head and after a beat she decided, "She will come."

The bard wished it were true, but she knew it would not happen. She raised her hands up and cupped the older woman's cheeks. "The Amazons are all the city has now, and we will stop the Romans."

Cyrene bowed her head and clutched the Amazon Queen's wrists. She shut her eyes and thought about what this meant for her, her son, grandchildren, and even Gabrielle. She peered up at Gabrielle.

Gabrielle bit her lower lip as the idea that she'd been considering the whole ride here finally won out. "Let me take you and Toris from here, Cyrene. There is time for you to still flee Amphipolis. My Amazons can take you back to the Nation…where you will be safe and under the Greek polis."

Cyrene moved her head in disagreement, instantly. She broke away from her adopted child and moved to the door. She turned back to Gabrielle. "This is my home, Gabrielle." Her eyes were glossy from rising emotions. "All that I hold dear is within these walls. I cannot abandon my life."

Gabrielle approached the older woman and argued, "You could lose your life if you stay here. You can continue your life…after this is over. Do not risk it by staying here." She had a pleading expression and the worry was evident in her eyes. She pointed at the open window. "Those walls can be rebuilt, but you cannot be reborn." Her hand fell to her side.

Cyrene understood her adopted daughter's fears. She wouldn't lie that such a pending war didn't scare her too. "I lost half my life many moons ago, Gabrielle. What I have left now I will not leave… for any reason." She could read the upset in the bard. "I am sorry, but I know you'll understand." She shifted and opened the door then quietly left Gabrielle to her thoughts.

The Amazon Queen listened to the door shut, and she softly cursed under her breath. She recognized Cyrene's long stubborn streak in Xena. She gave a soft sigh once she accepted that she couldn't hide Cyrene from the war unless she kidnapped her. She wasn't about to pull such an unkind act despite some tiny piece of her wanted desperately to protect the only person who was her last living mother figure in her life.

Gabrielle ruffled her own short hair on her slow walk over to the bedside. She sunk down into the soft bed and stared out the window. Gradually her stare trailed over to her arm, and she studied the armband that Xena had recently bought her. She then clutched her quill necklace and murmured, "I wish you wouldn't disappoint your mother… but you will."

The queen started rubbing the fond charm as she thought about Cyrene's confidence in Xena's arrival. She too wanted to make Xena come to Amphipolis, but it was impossible. She would stand on her own feet and take down the Romans or battle them until they fled home with their skirts up. Amphipolis was her home as much as Potidaea or the Amazon Nation. There were too many lives being threatened merely because of Rome's hunger and Caesar's hatred for Xena.

A sudden knock at the door jarred the Amazon Queen from her thoughts. She was unsure who it'd be, but she thought maybe Ephiny. She called for entry and suddenly stood when it wasn't Ephiny entering her room.

"Seven," Gabrielle gently greeted.

The automaton shut the door and took a step away from it. She placed her hands behind her back in a formal manner. "Am I disturbing you, my queen?"

"No… no, not at all." The bard realized how the automaton filled the small bedroom. Briefly she considered if Xena would do the same since both women were of equal stature, but Gabrielle pushed away such notions. "I was just relaxing."

"This is not a relaxing time," the Amazon countered.

Gabrielle quietly blew out some air at the truth. "Yes, I suppose you're right." She then signaled the desk chair. "Do you want to sit?"

"I am fine, my queen."

"Seven," the bard warned, "we're in private."

Seven slightly dipped her head in understanding and corrected, "I am sorry, Gabrielle… I am unaccustom with informalities."

"It's okay," the queen assured. She then shifted topics. "Is everything alright?" She edged over to the windowsill, leaned against it, and kept her interests on the automaton.

Seven didn't immediately answer because she was scanning over the bedroom. She developed a faint frown to her full lips but looked back at Gabrielle. "This is the Conqueror's room."

Gabrielle did her own, brief glance around the room then nodded. "At one time… yes." She returned her attention to the automaton. "You must be feeling uncomfortable here. Is there anything I can do to help?"

Seven tilted her head, slightly. "I find myself in a new and confusing situation." She hesitated to say more but managed, "I am unsure what is appropriate to tell you. We are friends but yet you are the queen and the Conqueror's friend, first and foremost."

Gabrielle bowed her head as she thought out the automaton's trouble. She grasped the sill's ledge then looked up again. "It doesn't change the fact that we're friends, Seven. I want to help you however I can, and I understand your past with the Conqueror." She paused but softly added, "I respect how you are working through things."

The automaton seemed to struggle, for the first time, with what she wanted to say to a human. She usually was quick and to the point. But now she faltered thanks to her concern for how what she wanted to say could affect Gabrielle. It was also the first time in her altered life that she showed concern for somebody.

"It is hard for me to accept…" Seven stopped, and it caused the bard to push off the windowsill.

Gabrielle neared the automaton and softly concluded, "To accept that you're in Amphipolis, in the Conqueror's hometown, and fighting to save her city when yours was taken away from you."

Seven studied the queen's concerned look. "Yes… especially when she is not here."

"I know." Gabrielle couldn't imagine how it felt for Seven, who was still relearning her human side. "You have to stay focused on why we are here. We're here to protect these people from Rome, to protect the Thrace Nation, and because it's for the Greater Good." She noted the Amazon's sudden, confused look.

"The Greater Good?"

"It's an idea that we make sacrifices to help those that are in need," the bard defined.

"Sacrifices," Seven softly repeated and defined, "To forfeit something for another thing considered to be of greater value."

The queen nodded and explained, "In this case, you're sacrificing your hardship of being here to save these people."

Seven agreed with the bard's assessment but then stated, "Some make more sacrifices than others."

"That is true," Gabrielle murmured. "And some make none."

Seven frowned despite she concluded that was also true. "Must I make this sacrifice, Gabrielle?"

The bard couldn't help a sigh. She really debated the answer then replied, "I can order you to do it… as your queen. But I rather you freely choose to make this sacrifice."

The automaton gave a single nod then informed, "I have already made that choice." She read the curiosity in the queen's eyes. "I am here."

Gabrielle gave a lopsided smile at Seven's obvious decision to make the sacrifice.

Seven bowed her head though once she recalled her other concern. She now returned the queen's earlier question. "Are you alright, Gabrielle?"

The bard started feeling see-through with the automaton. She knew part of it had to be the mysterious connection Seven had with Gabrielle and Xena. "I'm okay," she honestly replied.

Seven remained quiet and seemed to assess Gabrielle. "The Conqueror is struggling with her decision," she informed.

Gabrielle narrowed her eyes some then came closer to the automaton. She lowered her voice as if somebody could over hear them. "You can… feel that?"

The Amazon canted her head and simply answered, "Yes."

"Have you always felt this connection to Xena and me?" the queen checked.

The automaton considered it then explained, "It has only been recent, after the Battle of the Fates. It has also been developing over time, especially during this trip." Her brow tightened ever so slightly. "I have a hard time detecting and concluding the Conqueror's emotions. But yours…" She lost the crease in her brow. "It is much clearer. You are a constant flow. But that is not the same with the Conqueror."

Gabrielle thought over this and stared at the small space between her and Seven. "I think it's because we are closer than you and the Conqueror."

"Perhaps," the automaton granted.

Gabrielle shook her head once it was clear that she wouldn't figure this out right now. She needed to stay focused on the Romans. Later she could explore more of this connection and maybe ask Priestess Maired and even Yakut.

"We have a lot to do here," the queen mentioned. "If you need to talk, Seven I'm here."

Seven dipped her head then quietly managed, "Thank you."

"I know you're close to Commander Kaylee too."

The automaton had a faint frown pulling at the corner of her lip. "Like you, she too will be extremely busy with this war."

"I have time for friends," Gabrielle promised. She then reached for the automaton's formed bicep, squeezed, and stepped by her. "Let's see about dinner. I'm starved." She touched her bare stomach with her hand. She didn't bother with her staff since her sword was still on her back.

Seven of Nine fell into step out the door and followed the queen downstairs. "Shall I gather the others?"

"Yes." Gabrielle stood at the mouth of the hallway to the back inn rooms. "I'll find us all a table." She walked away and muttered, "Or tables."

"We will need two," Seven replied despite she shouldn't have been able to hear the queen.

The bard paused in her next step and glanced back at the retreating automaton. Now she had her confirmation that indeed the automaton had superior hearing compared to humans. She set that note aside in her mind and continued into the taverna. Gabrielle paused just near the small bar and scanned the crowd's faces because something prickled the back of her neck. She settled a stare on a woman, who hid in the far right corner and eyed Gabrielle back.

"Hello, Gabrielle," the barmaid greeted when she came out of the kitchen door with three hot plates.

Gabrielle broke her staring match with the stranger and looked at the barmaid. "Does it matter where we sit?" the queen checked.

The barmaid shrugged then nodded with her chin over her shoulder. "On that side… you'll probably need two tables." She started pasted the Amazon Queen. "I'll come help in a beat."

"Thanks." Gabrielle let the barmaid pass then she crossed the busy taverna. She was grateful that Cyrene had a full house. She stood beside two tables that could easily hold all eight Amazons once they were together. She began pulling the chairs out.

The barmaid arrived after Gabrielle had removed the chairs. She took one table end while Gabrielle grabbed the other. "By the way, I'm Elen."

"It's nice to meet you, Elen." Gabrielle flashed a warm smile. "How long have you been helping Cyrene?"

"Just over two seasons now." Elen moved out from between the tables and shifted the other one closer until they were touching. "Cyrene mentioned you're an Amazon…?" She had some awe in her voice.

Gabrielle had picked up two chairs and brought them back to the tables. "I am." She set the chairs down then added, "I am the queen of my Nation."

Elen had her hands wrapped around one chair but was staring at the Amazon. "By the gods… she did not say that."

Gabrielle had a small grin and grabbed another two chairs. "I only recently acquired the queen's mask."

Elen had finally put a chair with the tables and started on a second one. "Did the queen before you die and you took the throne?"

The queen felt an ache rise in her chest at the question. "No." She hooked her arms through the last two chairs. "I fought the former queen in a challenge and won it." She shoved the last two chairs into place.

"Gods," Elen breathed. She scrambled to put the last chair into the only remaining spot at the head of the table. "Cyrene said you're also a bard."

Gabrielle inwardly sighed at Cyrene's obvious talking, but she knew it was because Cyrene was proud of her. She crossed her arms and leaned her hip against the table. "I am… I graduated from the Athens Academy."

"At the head of her class," a proud voice cut in from the other side.

Gabrielle's dark green eyes cut over and centered on Ephiny. When she looked back at Elen, she saw the obvious enchantment on the barmaid's face. She could hurt Ephiny for throwing oil into the fire. "I wasn't the only one that graduated from the Academy," she informed. "Ephiny here also graduated at the top of her class too."

Ephiny was not at all deterred by the queen's attempt to wrangler her in too.

Elen looked between both Amazons and tried fathoming their abilities as mere women. She couldn't imagine how they did it all. She then hastily asked, "Perhaps you can do a performance?" Her eyes jumped between the Amazons. "Please… it'd be so wonderful." Then suddenly a flush turned her cheeks red.

Gabrielle instantly had a knot in her stomach. "I really-"

"Would love to perform," Ephiny cut in and finished for the queen. She smiled warmly at the queen. "You are one of the best bards, my queen." She enjoyed the dangerous, threatening look being shot at her from Gabrielle.

"Oh thank you," Elen gushed to the queen. "I know Cyrene would love to hear you perform too."

The bard fisted her hands under her arms. She could only force a smile on her face despite she wanted to wring Ephiny's neck.

"Maybe tomorrow night though," Ephiny considered aloud. She looked at the queen now. "It has been a long day after all, my queen."

"Yes… it has," Gabrielle dangerously drew out.

Ephiny bobbed her head a few times.

Elen came around the table to the bard. "Thank you so much." She had a huge, bright smile that filled her cheeks. "I'll tell Cyrene." She then gingerly touched the Amazon's muscular arm and breathed, "Just let me know you if you need anything, Queen Gabrielle." With that, she hurried off back to the kitchen.

Ephiny lowered her head and tried her damnedest not to break out laughing.

"Oh, Ephiny… I will have your feathers for this." Gabrielle was shooting invisible arrows at the Amazon. Her annoyance was enflamed further when Ephiny's bemused features met her.

"Not before that barmaid is fanning herself with yours," the Amazon thoroughly tormented.

Gabrielle came over to her friend and warned, "If that girl falls all over me because of your antics then I'll have Solari crawling all over you." She leaned in closer and whispered, "And I mean late into the night."

Ephiny slightly stiffened at such a threat, but she brushed it off. "I would not be concerned, my queen." She revealed her grin. "I don't doubt Cyrene's capabilities in telling the girl that you've been wooed by the Conqueror."

Gabrielle rocked back on her heels and warily eyed the Amazon. "Hmmm," she muttered and looked off her right shoulder when more Amazons were coming. She cut her attention to Ephiny. "You damn well better hope so... my friend." She gave a last devilish grin then greeted her Amazons. She and Ephiny quickly had everybody seated around the table, which had caught all the taverna patron's attention to see them.

Once settled around the table, the Amazons actually had time to talk since they were all good friends. Although there was a coming war, they knew moments such as these would become nearly impossible so they seized the time together before it all would go to Hades. They also noticed the queen's mood had slightly improved tonight. Later, Cyrene had joined the group because most of the patrons had left or were only finishing their drinks.

Cyrene had pulled up a chair next to Gabrielle. She learned the recent ongoings at their Nation, and Solari even told Cyrene the story about Gabrielle's challenge over Melosa. Cyrene had received a scroll from Gabrielle that she was now the queen, but Cyrene wasn't sure how the queen's mask went into Gabrielle's hands. She looked upon the new Amazon Queen with a proud smile.

Gabrielle never much enjoyed stories about herself. She just remained sunk in the chair, arms crossed, and listened to Solari's blown up story. She didn't bother correcting some of the minor errors in the story because Cyrene gasped each time. Finally when it was over, Gabrielle whispered to Cyrene not to believe everything she heard.

But Cyrene turned to a sensitive topic once her taverna was empty. She asked about the coming Romans and what the queen planned to do. She hardly believed at first that the Thrace Nation was coming to help too. She thought perhaps that they would have some chance in the end, but it sounded rather slim. Cyrene became concerned when Gabrielle mentioned Xander and argued how his personality greatly clashed with other leaders.

"But Amphipolis will need him," Gabrielle reminded her adopted mother.

"Yes." Cyrene nodded at the bard. "You and I know this, but he does not care."

The queen was dumbfounded by this news. "He is the nauarchos of the Delian League. And the league swore to protect the city-states."

"That was many generations ago, Gabrielle." Cyrene sighed at the bard's developing frown. "It is not what it use to be… there is no honor left in the league." She shook her head and muttered, "It is just a few hundred hoplites and ships loosely following a corrupt nauarchos."

The queen huffed and shook her head a few times. "Regardless," she continued, "I will have to speak to Xander tomorrow… and the city's council."

Cyrene nodded and recalled the council members. "The head of council is Delos."

Gabrielle recalled the head councilor's name. "Who are the members?"

Cyrene folded her hands in her lap. "There are only two… Theron and Patracles."

Gabrielle didn't know Theron, but the name Patracles rang a bell in her memory. She had a confused look that she turned on Cyrene. "I know that name… why?"

Cyrene glanced at the listening Amazons and decided whether or not it was a good idea to remind the bard. She knew who Gabrielle was asking about between the members. "Patracles was an old friend of Xena's." She hoped she didn't have to elaborate on what she meant by old friend.

Suddenly Gabrielle's eyes widened when it struck her in the gut. She stared at the mother in slight disbelief. "Noooo," she murmured.

Ephiny was sitting right beside the queen, and she was leaning on the cleared table. She had a curious look and tempted, "Who is Patracles?"

The queen sighed because she realized her own mistake. She looked at the Amazon and caught Solari's obvious interest too. She didn't want it to matter, not to her so she tried remaining passive. "Patracles and the Conqueror were betrothed at one point… as kids."

"Noooo," Solari whispered in awe, mimicking the queen earlier.

"Why weren't they married?" Teresa spoke up from her spot a few seats down.

Gabrielle softly exhaled and glanced at Xena's mother.

Cyrene recalled the exact why, but she glossed over it. "They were betrothed as kids but as they grew older, they grew in separate directions. It wasn't in their best interests to get married." She didn't want to tell how Patracles attempted smothering Xena's happiness by not wanting her to do as she wished to do. It was not a very good match, for either of them.

"Was this when you two were friends?" Adonia asked the queen.

"No." Gabrielle shook her head. "This all happened a few or so seasons before I met Xena."

"Ah… BG," Solari quipped. At the queen's raised eyebrow, she grinned and clarified, "Before Gabrielle."

Ephiny couldn't help a chuckle and poked, "Versus AG."

Solari wiggled her eyebrows. "After Gabrielle," she agreed.

Again, Gabrielle felt the urge to give her friends a hard time, but she restrained herself, for now. She focused back on the original topic. "Who's in charge of the militia? Xander too?"

"No." Cyrene bowed her head and thought about the militia commander. "Nikostratos is the eirenarchos."

Gabrielle recognized the name from word of mouth. She picked up her mug of wine but first asked, "How big is the militia?"

"About two hundred fifty strong," Cyrene guessed. "Perhaps three hundred." She knew the city was growing, but she suspected the militia was nothing more than three hundred.

"It'll have to do," Gabrielle murmured. She then looked at her Amazons and offered for them to get some rest. She reminded them that the coming future would bring on many sleepless nights. She bid goodnight to them and was pleased they each thanked Cyrene for the large meal. After they were all gone, Gabrielle was able to talk to Cyrene again. She became a little upset when Cyrene asked about Faolan, but she explained better what'd happened to him and the sacrifice he made for her. Cyrene comforted her adopted daughter then started asking more about Xena.

The pair spoke for awhile and Gabrielle had much to tell Cyrene about Xena. She noticed how Cyrene listened with every bit of interest. It made her feel deeply for Cyrene, and she wished Xena could understand how much Cyrene missed Xena. But it could only come in time if the Fates wished it.

Finally, the bard said goodnight to Cyrene and gave her a long hug. She went upstairs and retired to Xena's old room. It didn't take her long to change into her nightshift and crawl under the cool sheets after she blew out the candles and closed the window's shutters. Gabrielle knew that sleep would evade her most of the night. She didn't finally rest until her mind was too worn out to think anymore.

By the next morning, Gabrielle woke up from her restless nightmares and found the sun had only been up for a candlemark. She cleaned up then pulled out her more traditional Amazon attire rather than the red and black outfit that Xena had picked for her. She adjusted the leathers into place and finished off with her boots. She normally wouldn't carry her weapons in Cyrene's taverna but under the circumstances, she kept her sword on her back and dagger hidden in her boot.

The bard found Seven and Andra were already awake and having breakfast together. She joined them and noticed Andra's concerned look mostly due from the darkness around Gabrielle's eyes. Gabrielle ignored her blood sister's worry because there wasn't much anybody could do about it. Instead, Gabrielle informed them that she had to pay a visit to the council.

"How large will that make the force now?" the blacksmith inquired.

The queen leaned back in her chair and made some estimates aloud. "We will be a thousand strong." She tilted her head. "Queen Cyane will be bringing about the same."

"How large is the Delian League?"

Gabrielle recalled the figures that Xena had told her. "There are ten triremes and three hundred hoplites."

"Well trained hoplites," Andra argued, "unlike the militia."

"The militia will need to be trained," Seven remarked. "That is not much time."

"No… it's not." The queen brushed her hair back.

Andra did the math and stated, "We will be two thousand five hundred fifty strong."

The automaton shifted a bit but remained stiff in her seat. "There are four thousand two hundred legionaries and three hundred equites to every legion."

Gabrielle bit her lip then softly informed, "Legion IV has four thousand three hundred legionaries." Again it was exact information that Xena had given her. "Three hundred equites."

"Great," Andra cynical started, "that's nearly two to one. And gods only knows what siege weapons they'll be lugging along too."

"Most likely several ballistae, catapults, battering rams, and onagers." Seven finished ticking off her list and caught Andra's displeased look.

"Thanks for that, Seven." Gabrielle sighed at the automaton's inspiring list. She then looked at her blood sister. "I need you, Solari, and Gryta to do some initial surveying of the city. Then I need Adonia and Teresa to survey outside the city walls." She folded her hands in her lap. "We need to get familiarized with every nook and cranny of this city and terrain."

Andra nodded at the good idea. She then checked, "What about Seven and Ephiny?"

The queen cut her eyes to the automaton. "You and Ephiny are coming with me for these meetings."

Seven just acknowledge the order with a nod. She suspected her role was to play the silent muscle if there were any problems with Xander or the like. And Ephiny was there to fill in if needed at certain points. Seven also knew Ephiny had become the queen's right hand Amazon.

Gabrielle was glad there weren't any arguments. "I'm going to visit some family." She'd asked Cyrene earlier if she thought Toris and his family would be home this morning. She wanted to tell him the news before word was spread first. "You and Ephiny can come for me in a candlemark." She nodded back at the kitchen door behind her. "Cyrene can tell you where to find me."

Seven of Nine canted her head when the queen stood up from her seat. "I cannot accompany you?"

"I'll be fine," the bard argued. She scraped her fingertips over the table top. "See you in a bit." She brushed her hand across her blood sister's shoulder and went on her way.

Andra watched the queen go and mumbled, "Stubborn."

Seven heard the blacksmith but made no comment. She studied the queen until she was gone from the taverna's entrance.

Gabrielle hurried down the steps of the taverna and quickly walked the already busy streets. She knew her way to Toris's home. It was about a ten minute journey across the city. She hadn't seen him, his wife, or the kids for some time. She had yet to meet the new baby girl named after Cyrene. Although Gabrielle was thinking much about the upcoming meetings, she sensed the prickles return to the back of her neck.

The Amazon Queen paused at a street corner and waited until a few mules with their owner passed her view. She slotted her eyes immediately when she spotted the strange woman from Cyrene's taverna last night. Now Gabrielle was able to take in the woman's appearance even though they faced each other from across the street.

The woman was fairly tall with midnight hair that had a gentle curl to it but was tied back. She wore black leather pants that were snug and her black vest left her arms bare. She was beautiful except for the aged scar that ran across her right brow. She kept her wrists protected with black metal bracelets that covered a hands length.

Gabrielle knew a warrior when she saw one. She was not at all deterred by the woman's sheathed sword at her hip. She didn't allow intimidation to affect her, and she hastily crossed the street. She had to dodge a few people and a wagon, but she was stunned to find the woman gone after the wagon was out of her way.

"Hades," the bard cursed once she realized she lost sight of the woman. She didn't let it heed her so she rushed down the street once she saw an opening between two buildings. She had her bets so she followed her gut.

Gabrielle rushed into the alley between the houses and an overhead noise caught her ear. With a tilt of her head, she caught the last glimpse of the dark woman disappearing onto the house's roof. She slightly grinned at the game so she backed up a few steps until her back brushed the opposite house's side.

The queen rushed the wall, jumped up the side, and pushed off back towards the other house. She pushed off that house and back to the first one in a repeating pattern until she climbed up the houses. She finally pushed off the last house's side with extra effort and neatly landed on the house that the dark woman had made it onto earlier.

Gabrielle remained slightly bent down with her right hand out to balance her. She narrowed her eyes when she spied the woman on the other end of the roof.

The dark woman said nothing and only tilted her head in curiosity. She then suddenly made a run and jumped off the house to the next one.

Gabrielle cursed yet again and quickly chased after the woman. She moved fast and tried not thinking about the distance to the ground. She hated heights, but she wasn't about to lose this woman again. She wanted to know why this stranger was tailing her.

The queen was hard press, but she was well trained by Eponin over the seasons. She was also in better physical shape than the dark woman because she started gaining on her after several leaps onto houses and buildings. Finally, she landed on a long stable roof, and Gabrielle rushed after the woman before she got away again.

The dark woman glanced over her shoulder and desperately attempted to get away. She took another three running steps then jumped off the roof for the nearby inn's balcony.

Gabrielle gave a low growl and launched off the stable just behind the woman. The power behind her jump was far better, and she caught the woman just as they both came near the balcony. Gabrielle gave a low cry like the other woman when they both missed the balcony and started falling until the woman snared the balcony's rail. And Gabrielle latched onto the woman's waist. She looked over her shoulder and saw the fall to the ground.

The dark woman also looked down and hissed at the distance. She tried climbing up, but there was far too much weight between them. She gave a low cry when her grip slipped, and they went tumbling down.

Gabrielle hit the ground first and her sword made it worse. She groaned hard when she broke the dark woman's fall.

The woman let out a whimper of pain then rolled off the Amazon Queen. She got onto her knees but looked at the Amazon Queen with slight concern.

The bard let out a low moan then breathed deep as her eyes opened up. She quickly came back to herself and made an attempt for the stranger. Gabrielle caught her, barely and wrestled her onto the ground, which caused a few onlookers to collect around them.

The dark woman struggled with the Amazon Queen, but she came up short when a dagger suddenly went under her throat.

Gabrielle was seated on top of the woman. She pressed the dagger's tip into the woman's throat for emphasis. She then growled, "Why are you following me?" She wasn't deterred by the woman's hands around her wrists. "Who are you?"

The dark woman didn't answer and went still. She stared coolly up at the queen.

Gabrielle was about to make her demand again, but suddenly the woman's unfamiliar features started sinking into her memory. She slowly withdrew the dagger and whispered, "Flora?"

Flora released the Amazon Queen's wrists but still remained calm. "It's been a long time, Gabrielle." She had deep, rich brown eyes that were almost dark as her hair.

Gabrielle stared in amazement at the only other childhood friend of Xena's. She also recalled how Flora wasn't overall fond of Gabrielle because Xena and Flora had been close until Gabrielle befriended Xena. After that, Xena rarely spent time with Flora because she often spent it with Gabrielle.

"Perhaps we can discuss this in a more… private setting." Flora didn't have to look around to know people were gathering nearby.

The bard lifted her eyes to the people and knew Flora was right. She quickly tucked her dagger away then stood up. She held out her hand to Flora, but Flora ignored it.

Flora brushed off some of the dust then mentioned, "You're fast on your feet, Gabrielle… a little different from the village girl I once knew."

"You're looking a bit different yourself," the bard poked back.

Flora shrugged her shoulders, which helped adjust her leather vest. She glanced at the small crowd then looked back at the bard. She grabbed the bard's wrist and dragged her away until she found a private area behind a smaller stable associated with the inn.

"Why are you following me?" Gabrielle urged, again once they were alone. Her annoyance was clear on her face.

Flora folded her arms and stared at the Amazon Queen. "I have orders to keep an eye on you."

Gabrielle was about to ask for clarification then it dawned on her. "Xena," she whispered. "You're one of her spies." It dawned on Gabrielle now how her best friend knew all the ongoings in Amphipolis.

Flora shifted her weight onto her right boot. "There is a small… band of us that are stationed here in the city." She paused but further explained, "We keep the Conqueror informed and watch after her family's wellbeing." She lowered her arms and muttered, "Which now includes you."

The bard was surprised to learn that all this time Xena was watching over Cyrene and Toris. She should have known better too. "Do you know about the Roman legion coming?"

"Yes." Flora rested her hands on her belt's silver buckle. "We have orders to remove you, Cyrene, and Toris if the battle is lost." She stared hard at the queen. "I expect you to cooperate with those orders. I don't need you making my orders any harder."

"You won't have to worry about carrying out those orders."

Flora was skeptical and took a step away. "I won't lose any sleep over it."

"I don't need a shadow, Flora," the Amazon Queen shot off. She wasn't surprised that Flora faced her again.

"Take it up with the Conqueror," Flora harshly remarked. "I'm not too keen on babysitting you either." She started walking away until a small yet strong hand spun her around.

"Is there anything else I'm not being told?" Gabrielle probed. She was frustrated with how Xena hadn't told her this tidbit of information. She disliked how Xena could hide things from her, and so well at that.

"I don't answer to you." Flora pushed off the bard's hand. "My loyalty is to the Conqueror." She tilted her head then reminded, "And so is yours." She started walking away again.

Gabrielle didn't chase after Flora again and stood rooted there. She lowered her head some and rubbed her face a few times with her hand. "Great, Xena." She combed her hair back. "You always keep me guessing, don't you?"

Yet it didn't surprise her that somehow Xena was keeping an eye on her. Xena had lost her a long time ago, and Gabrielle doubted Xena would allow history to repeat itself. This future war allowed for too many risks and variables that Xena was most likely going to limit them as much as possible. But if that were the case, Gabrielle wondered why that didn't inspire Xena enough to fight the war herself. Gabrielle wouldn't find that answer right now.

What was important and practical was preparing Amphipolis for the war which could first be done by warning the council. With that in mind, Gabrielle gathered herself and continued her day that would give her an idea to how hard or easy it would be to prepare Amphipolis. She prayed that all parties agreed to act and that she could truly bring them together. As her Nation joked about her diplomatic skills, she hoped she could make the cow lay an egg.

To be continued.