Disclaimer: The characters of Xena and Gabrielle and others mentioned, belong to
MCA/Universal and Renaissance Pictures. No infringement on their rights is intended.
Subtext Disclaimer: This story contains references to a loving relationship between two
consenting adults, who happen to be of the same sex. If this offends you, or you are under
18 years of age, or you reside in an area where this type of material is illegal, read no
more. There is plenty of general fanfic out there for you. Go find it.
Violence Disclaimer: This story contains scenes of graphic violence.
Shock Factor: Lets just say that Plan D #21 isnt going to be lucky for
anybody. People are gonna get hurt and possibly worse, so youve been warned.
Note: This story is in segments, due to its size.
Please send any comments to asdease1@gte.net
Enjoy, I hope.
THE BRIDGE
part three
Written by FlyBigD
The bridge was set in between the two banks of the river and wide enough for three people
to ride abreast on horseback. Its wooden planks were tightly interlocked, with no
slits for light, or rain to get through. The simple beveled railing ran above the decking
in a smooth, seamless arch. Made of trees that had been hand selected by the first King to
come to the forest, it had no paint, or adornment. It was a simple, strong wooden
structure that had withstood countless little feet padding across it, as well as the
thundering hooves of war horses charging into battle. Its history was as old as the
Palace of both the Ancients and the King. The notches and scars it bore told innumerable
stories of both joy and pain.
Untold generations of Ungaran children and adults had dived off its edges in pursuit
of relief from the summer sun, into the cool water that runs slowly below its arch.
And many generations had been conceived on the sloped shadowed bank beneath. The bridge
had seen many a romantic interlude, reveled splash and marital spat in its day. It was the
sole link between the two Palaces front doors and the outside world. The aged and
faded wood, stained by the elements and mother natures wrath was no longer the
bright blonde of its youth. Too many centuries had robbed the bridge of its
original luster and now, it only shined when it rained, but neither mother nature or the
elements had faded its strength, or rotted a single plank of its span. No
repairs had ever been made, or had been needed. Its simple design, constant use and
the passing of time had strengthened the pine into a stony hardness that belied its
ancient age and maintained its solidity.
This is what held the four combatants above the water. The bridge that had seen more days
than history recorded, was again bearing the weight and witness to the eternal battle of
good and evil.
On one side, a god in all his evil glory. Dahok stood, just below the apex, ready and able
to take what was rightfully his, and his reinforcement, the wall of flame. This stood as a
reminder of his power and reflected his kinship with the white hot orb hanging behind the
clouds. Behind the fire, the smoldering wreckage of his wake; the charred remnants of a
forest that was now a wasteland, reaching further than any mortal eye could see.
On the other side stood three mortal women. Staggered in intervals, stood a king, a
warrior princess and a bard. Ready and able, they stood to defend, not take. Their claim
was not in question, nor their resolve. Behind them, stood a row of thirteen men, dressed
in the dark blue and green of their empire and their King. They too were ready to defend
the soil on which they stood and sacrifice their souls to keep it safely in the hands
where it belonged. To the rear, the fallen and the wounded. Removed from the battle in
body, but not in spirit. Next came the innocent life, newly born, cradled in the arms of
Love herself, who was the child holding the pendulum of victory inside one tiny balled up
fist, nestled against the face, a mirror image of the one on the bridge. These were the
players in the tragedy to unfold, along with the ones not yet present.
The band of brothers treading over ground they had not seen since the dawn of time and
following their more knowledgeable ensigns to the battle. The Ancients would be the last
to arrive and were the last vestige of defense against one of their own kind. Their power
gone with the departure from their home, they came on to face a foe no longer recognizable
as the brother they knew. And staggering his lonely way forward was the one who had led
the fight for good, suffering the ramifications of both victory and defeat. Staggering his
way, far behind the others, was Ungara. The younger twin of Dahok, the god over the night
and the King of the Ancients.
Taking the last steps up the bridge, T held her sword out to the side and began rotating
it in a pivoting circle close to her shoulder.
With one last glance to the clouded sky, Dahok lowered his eyes. Staring deeply into the
crimson set getting ever closer, he raised the tip of his sword. No last words of
wisdom, Daughter of Ungara? No false promises to give your minions diluted hope?
Slowing her sword, she smiled and nodded. Gabrielle.
T? Her eyes shifting, the bard looked away from Dahok and stared at the back
of Ts head.
I think Id like to wear my crown, if you dont mind? Bringing the
sword up, she held it straight out from her body and watched his face contort into pure
fury.
My pleasure. Smiling, the bard turned on her heels and was off the bridge
before she figured out the ruse and heard the clash of metal. Cursing under her breath,
she turned again, to retake her position, but was grabbed by the strong arm of Cargan.
What are you doing? Let me go!
Turning to watch her leave, Xena was caught by a round house punch that sent her rolling
back down the bridge, to land unconscious just below Gabrielles kicking feet.
Picking up the warriors sword, T tossed it behind her, then raised her own.
Two down, one to go. Smiling, she charged forward, spun and swung a two-handed
back slash at Dahoks middle.
Having the shotgun snatched out of her hands, Gabrielle looked up as the warrior rolled
toward her, then she looked up to the top of the bridge, where the battle had begun.
T, nooooo. Lemme go! Pushing down on the hands holding her tight, she tried to
kick him. Lemme go!
Forgive me, Gabrielle. I have my orders. With both hands around her waist,
Cargan held the bard off the ground and had to enlist the aide of two Guards to keep her
from ripping his eyeballs out. Get Xena.
Picking up the warrior and her sword, the Guards moved her behind the line and placed her
next to Bud.
Lifting his head, the tiger rubbed his paw across her face to get the hair out of her
eyes, then laid back down.
Oooo. Thats gonna leave a nasty bruise. Aphrodite commented on the large
red spot on Xenas cheek.
Her sword in constant motion, T was putting forth a continual offensive assault, keeping
Dahok on the defensive. Using the skill shed acquired two millennia earlier, gold
met silver in a shimmering blur of movement. Grunts and groans mixed with the deafening
rings of metal against metal. Giving him no room to maneuver, or use his powers, she
pressed hard and fast. Swinging high, then low, she kept him beyond the top of the bridge
and in front of her. Scoring only nicks and cuts, she suffered the same fate and soon the
light sheen forming on her body melded with small trickles of blood.
His frustration mounting, Dahok was pressed to keep his sword where it was needed. Each
attempt at a strike was blocked and countered with lightning speed, which prevented him
from landing the one lethal blow he desired. Growling low, he tried to advance, but was
held in check by a golden barrier.
Watching from a vantage point beneath one of the Royal Guards, Gabrielle was on the
ground, her eyes glued to the bridge. Still struggling to participate, she heaved and
strained to no avail. The considerable weight on top of her was too much for even her
temper to overcome and she panted heavily with the effort. As she watched, her heart was
torn between the knowledge that shed been tricked and something creeping up from her
memory. The movements she could see were registering on her subconscious. Though they were
almost too fast to see, the moves still struck a chord in her mind, as if she was seeing a
dance shed done as a child. There was a pattern forming from the apparent random
swings of Ts sword. Shes setting him up. Unable to see the lower
part of Ts body, because of the bridge, the bard could still recognize what was
happening. Cargan. Looking up, she swiveled her head looking for the Captain.
Coming over, he knelt down beside her and was already shaking his head. No,
Gabrielle.
No, listen. Shaking her own head, the bard looked back to the bridge.
You need to get your men down. Have them sit, or whatever, but youve got to
get them lower.
Frowning, Cargan stared befuddled. What?
Just do it! Youve got to trust me. Growling out the words, she tried to
kick him. Get them down, now.
Nodding, despite his confusion, the Captain signaled his men to kneel, see that this would
not deminish their ability to defend the line.
Unaware of what was happening on the far side of the bridge, Dahok began to rally. The
defensive stance hed taken was shifting and he was able to slip past the constant
attack to drive T back slowly. Still looking for the one death blow, he worked at wearing
down her strength. The effort she was putting forth was showing on her body, if not her
face, and the watery drips darkening her clothing were a sign he was getting closer to his
goal. Consumed with the smell of victory, he pushed harder.
Stepping back an inch, T was still in constant motion, but her blows were losing their
stinging bite. Having a mortal body again, even in the shape it was in, was going to make
her strategy all the more important. She had to use his ego against him if there was any
chance that this would end quickly, without anybody getting hurt, but it was going to be
difficult. Moving back inch by inch, she let him get his digs in and allowed his sense of
power to build, because she needed it. It was the only way to mask her agenda and it was
the only way to get him off balance. Her face calm, she was primed and ready. Dahok was
becoming more confident and they were almost at the top of the bridge, so now all she
needed was a few more swings and hed fall and her destiny would be fulfilled again.
The first signs of consciousness was a moan, then a hand going to her head.
Ow.
Oh, look. Auntie Xena is finished with her nap. Aphrodite chuckled and turned
the baby around, so he could see. I think shes not going to like Mr. Mirror
for awhile.
Grabbing her jaw, the warrior moaned louder and opened her eyes. What hit me? A
bus?
Close. Nodding, the goddess shook her head. A knuckle sandwich from our
fearless leader.
Our fearless . . . T! Sitting up quickly, Xena found her sword.
Just calm down, or else the goons will sit on you. Waving her back, she
sighed, then pointed to the bard. They got blondie as soon as she stepped off the
bridge.
Finding Gabrielle, she saw that the bard was virtually being sat on and she knew why. She
also noticed that all the Guards were kneeling and this made her head hurt more.
What are they doing?
The Gabster told them to duck. I think it has something to do with the tall, red and
ugly up there. Pointing to the bridge, she shrugged. Hey, how did he get
undead anyway?
I dont know. Shrugging back, Xena got on all fours and crawled over to
where the Guards had the bard subdued. Whats going on? Ooof. Get off me.
Turning her head, Gabrielle found the warrior under three Guards. Rolling her eyes, she
shook her head. Give it up, Xena. Theyre under orders.
Struggling anyway, the warrior lost her sword again and was pressed on by nearly everybody
that wasnt required to hold the bard down. I cant breathe here.
Gasping, she shoved a couple of the weights off her chest until she could breathe, then
calmed a bit. Look, I promise not to go anywhere unless Ts in trouble, so
would you please get off me? Glaring up at the face an inch from hers, she bored her
baby blues into Cargan.
Nodding, the Captain waved his hand and the Guard crawled off. Pushing off himself, he
kept her sword and went back to sit beside the man sitting on the bard.
Why didnt I think of that? Groaning, Gabrielle sighed. Cargan,
youve got my promise too.
Giving her a speculative stare, he finally nodded. Okay.
Thank you. The girls said in unison and began dusting themselves off.
So, why did you have everybody get down? Getting to her knees, Xena moved up
beside Gabrielle.
Watch what Ts doing. Pointing, she waved her finger. I think
Ive seen it before. Glancing at the warrior, she waited to see if she saw it
to.
Staring intently, she watched Ts movements carefully and tilted her head. I
dont . . . wait. Shes setting him up.
Nodding, the bard smiled. Thats why I had everybody get down.
Patting her wife on the back, Xena nodded. Good move. Leaving her hand in
place, she pulled the bard to her and kissed the top of her head.
Smiling, Gabrielle leaned into her and sighed. Staring at the bridge, she looked beyond it
to the wall of fire and thought about the beautiful forest that was gone. I wonder
how long it will take the trees to grow back?
Itll be beautiful again, Gabrielle. It might be in our next life, but
itll come back. T will take care of it. Smiling sadly, she looked down and saw
an expression more sad than hers. What?
Xena, Ts mortal again. She may not be here in our next lifetime.
Swallowing hard against the lump in her throat, she shook her head. Shes going
to get old, now.
Looking up to her friend, the bards words hit her like a ton of bricks. In the
excitement shed forgotten that fact. No, she cant. Well just do
the blood thing, ya know. Give her another transfusion. Shell be back.
Glancing back down into the same sad face, she shook her head at it. Itll
work. Smiling, she hoped she get one back, but she didnt.
Xena, shes still got the same blood. I dont think a transfusion will
make her immortal again. Lowering her eyes, Gabrielle closed them and leaned heavily
into her wife.
No. She cant just get old. Shes always been that way. She hasnt
aged a day since we met her. Shaking her head in denial, Xena turned to the Captain.
Cargan, tell her. Tigers live really really long, right?
Thats true. Nodding, he smiled. The oldest King on record lived to
be over two hundred years old before he was killed.
Killed? Opening her eyes, the bard turned to him. Who killed him?
No one. A wagon collapsed on top of him while he was repairing a wheel. No King has
ever died of old age. Shrugging, he looked back to the bridge. They have all
been killed, one way or another. Ts father was nearly a hundred when she was born
and according to Lemets diary, he didnt look any older than he did in the
portrait when he died. Turning back, he shrugged again. No one knows what the
true life expectancy for a King really is.
Seeeee. All we have to do is keep her out of trouble and shell be here for a
long time. Smiling, Xena didnt get one back again.
Looking up, Gabrielle shook her head, then turned to stare out at the bridge. Define
trouble.
Following her gaze, the warrior was hit again. As her mind had just reconciled itself to
the fact that her friend would be around for may lifetimes to come, she was then struck by
the knowledge that the trouble she needed to avoid was baring down on her like a rampaging
bull. The only person to ever defeat T was on the bridge. Dahok had died and so had her
friend. It was all coming back like nightmare. The heat of the lair. The crumbling walls.
The echo of his dying screams. The desperation shed felt when T had been trapped
under the rubble. It was fresh and it was real. The site that had met her eyes, when
shed awoken above the river of lava and discovered the sacrifice T had made for her
own survival. That instantaneous crushing feeling of loss came back, as she watched and it
burned her soul, causing the warrior to see only what had been, not was to be. No,
no, no, no. Shaking her head, he heart sank and she began to rise. Weve
got to do something. She cant die.
At that moment, T found the opening shed set up and pivoted on one foot, dodging a
blow aimed at her chest and came around, arcing her sword in low sweep. Catching
Dahoks outstretched blade from behind, she dug the edge of hers into the edge of his
near the hilt and hooked his sword. Planting the other foot, she continued the turn,
pulling Dahok forward and yanking the sword out of his hands to send it hurtling in a
straight line with the flick of her wrist. Then she was supposed to spin again and behead
the demon, but as her eyes caught the trajectory of the sword and the rising form of her
friend, she froze. Noooooooo.
Her mind in another place and time, Xena stood intent on undoing the past and didnt
see the elongated bullet coming at her. The sound of Ts agonizing scream didnt
reach her ears until she felt the ground slam against her back. Blinking in confusion, her
mind came back to the present and she looked up to see what had happened. Rolling her head
and eyes backward, she saw what had happened and found Cargan with Dahoks sword
through his chest pinned to the tree behind her.
Xena! Crawling over, Gabrielle put her hand on the warriors chest.
Xena?
Still staring, her mind took a moment more before her relexs and instincts came rushing
back. Cargan! Jumping up, she stood beside the Captain. Touching the sword
lightly, her eyes saw the damage done, but put that aside. Its okay, its
okay. Just relax. Well take care of this. Giving him a smile, she checked the
flow of blood coming from around the hilt of the sword.
Staring down at the sword, Cargan tried to breathe and sent a wash of blood out of his
mouth.
Oh, my god. On the other side, the bard put her hand on his chest. Just
hold on. Well get you down. Just relax.
Tell my wife and son that I love them. He whispered and never looked up, as
his eyes closed slowly.
Nonononono! Holding him as he went limp, Gabrielle looked to the warrior.
Xena?
Shaking her head, Xena felt for a pulse and got none. I did this. Closing her
eyes, she hung her head for a moment as the anger of being both the blame and helpless
rose up from her soul. In a flash the warrior princess had her hands on the sword and
yanked it out of the Captains body and the tree. A fire of her own in her eyes, she
let the bard take care of Cargan as she turned to head for the bridge. Your ass is
mine, Dahok. Fingering the handle, she was past the stunned Guards before they had a
chance to stop her. You are mine.
Xena! No! Lowering Cargan to the ground, she watched the warrior walk off.
Xena! Get her!
Aphrodite turned the baby away and closed her eyes. I liked him.
It took Dahok less time to recover than it did the warrior and as T stood in shock, he
pounced. Roaring to his feet, he grabbed her sword arm and dug his claws into her flesh.
A heartbeat after that, T was back in motion. The rage shed been lacking during the
battle emerged in full force. Roaring in unadulterated fury, she spun and dug her claws
into his chest, dragging them downward, ripping skin and muscle as she went. Spinning the
sword in her hand, she brought it back to gash his arm.
An agonizing roar replaced the one of fury as Dahok was ripped open. Unarmed, he raked his
claws across her chest, doing what had been done. From then on there was no finesse with
sword to deal with, just claws, teeth and madness. As before the King was everywhere at
once and he matched her ferocity with his own.
Digging and clawing, she ripped whatever her hands came in contact with, her eyes blinded
by rage. As they grappled, they tumbled over, rolling down the fire riddled side of the
bridge, their bodies a mass of undistinguishable flesh, she continued to attack him like
the tiger laying half alive under the tree and like the tigress she was. T forgot the
sword she held, letting it fall to the bridge behind them, her mind set on killing him
with her bare hands. Ignoring and unfeeling the wounds she received, she aimed for heart
and throat.
Xena came up the bridge, Dahoks sword held high and let loose her battle cry.
Following the trail of blood, she charged over the top and was hit by a blue ball of
energy. Dodging most of the impact, she bounced off the railing and fell to her knees.
Xena! Leaving the body of the Captain, Gabrielle charged the line of Guards
and this time would not be stopped. Shoving them aside, she picked up the warriors
sword and swung it menacingly to clear her path. Xena!
Panting heavily, the warrior glanced at the seared spot on her shoulder, climbing to her
feet. Keeping low, she crested the bridge and found a heap of convulsing bodies roaring
and rending each other into a bloodied mass. T!
Hearing nothing but her own anger, T continued her ravaging battle as they rolled toward
the wall of fire. While the flames licked its burning tendrils over the foot of the
bridge, she sank her teeth into his shoulder, breaking bone and tore away putrid bile.
Ripping his claws across her back, Dahok sent a burst of energy into her body, then heaved
the stunned tigress through the air, back onto the bridge. Seething and oozing from every
imaginable place on his body, he crawled to his feet. Letting loose another roar, he
lumbered toward the prone figure before him. Now, he would have his victory and the Crown.
Noooooooo. Planting her feet, Xena torqued her body sideways and drew back his
sword like a javalin thrower. Swinging forward, she hurled the silver blade, aiming for
his heart. Stumbling with the effort, she went to her knees again, right behind the Sword
of Ungara.
Impaled by his own weapon, the Evil went back into his burning wall with the force of the
impact.
Grabbing the golden sword, the warrior scrambled down the bridge toward her friend.
T! Get up!
Right behind was the bard, her eyes focused on Xena, she followed her down the other side
toward T. Seeing the body lying motionless, she glanced toward the fire. Get her
arm. Weve got to get her out of here. Taking one for herself, she pulled back,
straining against the dead weight and the hill behind her.
Sheathing Ts sword on her back, Xena grabbed one arm and began to pull with
Gabrielle. Her eyes on the fire as well, she backed up blindly, moving her unguided feet
as quickly as she could. Weve got to get her to the other side.
I know. Groaning, Gabrielle continued to pull.
Frowning, Aphrodite hefted the baby in her arms and stood. Hey! Did somebody feed
him or something? Opening the jacket to see his face, her eyes went wide as the face
began to change from the small newborn. Oh boy. Guys. Guys! Holding his
expanding body, she leaned against the tree. Whatever youre doing, just stop
it, okay. Please? But the baby didnt comply and continued to grow.
Nobody ever listens to me.
Xena and Gabrielle were at the center of the bridge when Dahok came roaring out of the
flames. Dropping the hand she held, the warrior unsheathed the golden sword and two handed
the grip. Gabrielle get her out of here.
Pulling harder, the bard drug the body of her friend a little way down their side then let
her go. Get her off the bridge! Giving the Guards a quick glance, she turned
back and moved to stand beside Xena with the warriors sword at the ready.
As blind as his opponent had been, Dahok charged upward, not seeing either woman in his
path. His sword still piercing his chest, he was focused on the retreating form of T,
still unconscious and being carried away by the Guards.
I go high, you go low. Eyes set, Xena raised the sword and drove it directly
above the one shed impaled him with bracing her legs against his momentum.
Not even having time to nod, Gabrielle swung her sword in a descending arc as she spun
clockwise, catching him behind the knees. Going down, as she followed through, she swept
his legs ou from under him. As he fell, she sprang to her feet, driving Xenas sword
downward to join the other two in his chest. Twisting the handle with the thurst, she
drove it up to the hilt and continued to push, leaning on it with her body.
Die!
Putting her weight on the other two, the warrior twisted them as well. Die you
bastard!
Flailing under the attack, Dahok grabbed one leg each and squeezed as he pulled them off
their feet.
Hitting the bridge hard, both women tried to get away using their free leg, kicking and
shoving at him. Taking hold of the railing, Gabrielle pulled with her arms while she
kicked at his arm. Grimacing in pain, she felt his claws dig into her calf and cried out.
Aaaaaaaaaaa. Throwing her head back, she kicked harder as her leg was lifted
off the ground.
Pushing off the deck with her arms, Xena held on to the rail and jammed her boot into his
throat. Let her go! Nearly jumping up and down on his neck, she grabbed a
sword and pulled it out to drive it in again. Let her go!
He released the bard, ripping cloth and muscle as he did, then sent her crashing into the
Guards with a ball of flame. Sending several more, he then grabbed the foot on his throat
and twisted it until he heard bones snap.
Aaaaaaaaaaaa. Screaming, the warrior went down twisting with her leg. Her hand
still holding the sword, she drove it into his shoulder, using it to pin his and to lean
against in her attempt to rise. Get off me! Straining against the pull on her
legs, she kicked wildly with the one that wasnt broken and managed to get to her
feet.
Furious, Aphrodite put the baby down next to Bud and put her hands on her hips. Staring at
the bard, she then stared at Dahok. Okay, thats it! First you knock off my
brother, then waste T, but nobody messes with blondie and gets away with it.
Stomping past the wounded Guards, she knelt down by Gabrielle. You stay here.
Im on it now. Standing, she pulled up her pink sleeves and wound up a good
one. Hey! Ugly mug! You want some action? I got some action for ya! Ill teach
ya to mess with a blonde! Hurling a ball of whatever the Goddess of Love was capable
of throwing, she reloaded quickly and continued to barrage him with multi colored balls,
as Xena limped her way off the bridge. Take that you scum sucking, butt faced, naked
meanie!
Unconscious, bleeding and burned, Gabrielle lay unaware that she was being championed by
her fellow blonde.
Crumbling to the ground, as her feet hit soil, Xena crawled to where the bard lay.
Dropping the sword, she pulled Gabrielle in her lap, cradling her limp body.
Gabrielle? Tears steaming down her face, she stroked a burned cheek and
brushed away singed hair. Honey? Come on, please. Gabrielle? Wake up. Talk to me.
Gabrielle? Looking up for help, she glanced around frantically and saw no one
standing but Aphrodite. The Guards were in the same condition as the bard, except that
some were semi-conscious and withering in pain. Ares was dead, as was Cargan, their bodies
next to each other. Bud was barely alive and couldnt walk, or stand, because his
back was broken. T was a short distance away and so bloodied and torn that she wasnt
recognizable anymore. Staring at the still form of her friend, the warrior knew shed
lost her best friend again. Closing her eyes, another wave of tears down her face and she
pulled the bard into her arms. Cradling her close, Xena held Gabrielles head against
her shoulder, rocking slowly. Looking around again, she caught something moving out of the
corner of her eye. Snapping her head further, she saw it again and laid the bard gently to
the ground, as she picked up the sword and stood to face whatever was coming up from the
rear. Balancing on one leg, her eyes searched intently.
Spreading out as they came close, the Ancients fanned out to form a solid line of bodies
two deep. Behind them were their ensigns on foot and wing.
Lowering the sword in disbelief, Xena ran her eyes from one end of the line to the other.
The sight was impressive and though she was shaken, exhausted and had a broken leg, she
was happy they were there. Feeling as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulder, she
slumped back to the ground and laid the sword at her side.
Moving forward as a whole, the gods stepped out of the trees, past the bodies of Ares and
Cargan, bowing their heads in unison to the fallen and Katai gave Bud a comforting pat as
he passed. Continuing forward he signaled the ensigns to stay back. Joining his brothers,
he checked the warrior and bard. Well get you medical help soon.
Dont worry about us. Get that rat bastard and Ill be happy.
Nodding toward the bridge, Xena smiled.
Nodding, Katai signaled for them to move forward and followed his brothers, slipping past
them to kneel beside T. Placing his hand on what was left of her chest, he held them up
from passing. Though his powers were gone, he could still feel the slightest bit of life
left in T and nodded. She lives. Smiling, he rose and signaled for the line to
move forward.
Turning at this news, the warrior stared at the body of her friend as the gods moved
forward again. Hang on, T. Well think of something. Smiling, she held
her wife close. Well make it. Well all make it somehow.
Oh, now we get back up? Throwing her arms in the air, Aphrodite fumed.
Where have you been? I was running out of bad love.
No longer under attack from balls of jealousy and unrequited love, Dahok ripped the swords
out of his chest and hefted them toward the sky. Rising to his feet, he roared in victory.
I am King! His body still torn from Ts attack, he surged with power,
sending his wall of fire higher than the trees they were burning.
No, Dahok. You are not. Speaking loudly, Katai shook his head. You are
not now, nor will you ever be.
Lowering the swords, the Evil roared at his brothers. You are nothing! You stand
their as mortals, defenseless and weak. You cannot stop me! The Crown is mine!
Unseen and forgotten, a leather jacket moved around like it had a life of its own.
Beneath it, a boy, now a near toddler sat up, his eyes wide, he looked around. Arms caught
in the sleeves, he tried to crawl toward the noise and stumbled until he was big enough to
stand and teeter. Naked, except for the jacket that drug the ground, he toddled toward
something shiny. When he got to it, he tried to pick it up, but the sleeve wouldnt
let him. Frowning, he rolled it on its side and tried again. Growing with each
moment, he saw his reflection in the curved gold surface and smiled at the Crown.
Unable to rise, Bud lifted his head and tried to catch the edge of the jacket with his
paw, but it slipped away as the boy toddled out of reach. Stretching his head as far as he
could, he watched the boy walk over to Ares, where he sat down.
Now sad, the boy patted Ares arm gently, trying to get him to respond. When nothing
happened, he pouted and hung his head. Leaning forward, he turned it sideways to lay it on
his fathers arm, patting it softly inside the leather sleeve. Sighing silently, he
rubbed his forehead on the cool skin and sat up, as tiny tears rolled down his face. There
was more noise and he turned and stood. Dragging the Crown behind him, he was more sure
footed now and walked a little better. Sniffing, he looked at the people towering in front
of him and turned to find something else shiny that needed investigation. Padding over, he
saw something gold twinkling in the light coming through the trees. Getting to it, he sat
down again and propped the crown on Ts arm. The shiny thing was the gold fringe of
her headdress and he leaned over to touch it. Frowning again, he reached hard and got his
fingers to barely pop out the end of the sleeve, so he could feel it. Running a finger
over the gold bob, he touched her skin, then spread his fingers to wipe her forehead.
Doing it several times, he laid his head on her shoulder and closed his eyes as he sniffed
back his tears. Patting her arm, as he had his father, the boy comforted his mother as
best he could, while his silent tears mingled with the blood and gore covering her body.
Feeling the touch, through the blackness that surrounded her, T struggled to reach out to
it. Her body destroyed, she used the only thing she had left and that was her soul.
Drawing from the last shred of strength still held within her core, she fought the chill
trying to eke its way in. Pressing it outward, she felt a flow of something warm
take its place. A meandering stream of heat filtering down from the outside world,
that was reinforcing her struggle, giving her a spark of energy. With that, she opened her
eyes. Her vision blurred and unfocused, she saw only a diffused light. Closing her eyes
again, she felt the touch more solidly and concentrated on it. After a few moments another
spark filtered through and she opened her eyes once more, but they were still blurred. As
the touch came again, she moved her eyes toward it and managed to turn her head.
Ares? Not even a whisper, she looked into a fuzzy image. Blinking, she tried
to focus her eyes, then slowly, she was able to make out a dark head on her shoulder.
Sitting up, the boy stared down with a look of innocent wonder on his face.
T blinked several more times before the face became clear and for the first time, she saw
the face of her son. Not the newborn face shed caught a quick glimpse at earlier,
she studied this older face and could see it still changing before her eyes. It was a
mirror image of hers, with Ares pitch black eyes and short wavy black hair.
Then he smiled at her and she saw her own impish grin reflected in the face of her child.
Patting her arm with his fingers, he got up and lifted the Crown. Rolling it over her arm,
he let it fall on her chest, then turned to walk off.
Straining, she reached out and caught a barefoot with her hand. Holding him in place, she
felt it growing inside her grip. Closing her eyes, she held on to her son and dredged up
every ounce of life she had left. Groaning silently, she slowly began to sit up, as the
Crown slid down her body.
I am King! Dahok roared again and started down the bridge toward his brothers.
My brother denied me my right and I am here to claim it! I am the first born of the
gods! The Crown is mine!
Lifting his battle axe, Katai stepped up. You are not the chosen, Dahok. Your greed
and evil cost you your birthright. You were given the same chance as Ungara to become King
and you wasted it. We were given this earth to protect, not to toy with and use for our
pleasure. You lost your claim when you chose selfishness over the responsibility we were
given.
Save your self righteous prattle for mortals, Katai. Stopping, he surveyed the
line of his siblings. I am a god and my power is meant to rule mankind, not coddle
it. Mortals are worthless, piteous bile that plague this world. Their only purpose is to
serve our desires. Tossing Xenas sword into the river, he held his up high.
This is the sword of the rightful King. The Sword of Dahok and I claim this land and
this world as mine!
Still holding onto her son, T grimaced, winced and groaned her way to her knees. One hand
holding the Crown, her eyes closed as unconsciousness threatened to take her again.
Hearing something behind her, Xena turned to see T on her knees, then the leather clad boy
trying to get away. Oh, my god. Her voice a hushed whisper of awe, she stared
eye to eye with a pair of black orbs. Junior? She asked, slack-jawed.
Reaching out in frustration, which showed up as a determined pout, the boy grabbed her
jacket in an attempt to free his leg. Grunting softly, he pulled at the captured foot held
by his mother.
Easing the bard to her lap, the warrior reached out, wrapping one arm around the boy.
I gotcha.
Opening her eyes, T turned to look at the startled expression on Xenas face. Seeing
her son safely in her grasp, she let go of his foot and took a deep breath. Bringing one
leg slowly around, she leaned sideways and picked up her sword, from beside the warrior.
Using it as a crutch, she pressed upward on her shaky leg.
No. Hanging onto the boy, Xena tried to stop T. Dont. Dont
get up, T. No. No.
Turning around, Aphrodites jaw dropped. Shes alive and and and hes
naked. Pointing to the pint sized biker replica. And where did the zoo come
from? Wrapping her scant attire closer around her, she pointed to the wildlife in
the trees. What is this? Mutual of Omahas Wild Kingdom?
Aphrodite, shut up about them and get her back down. She cant fight
anymore. Setting the boy in her lap, beside the bard, she waved the goddess over.
Get her down.
Got it! Nodding, the goddess fluttered around the back and grabbed Ts
arm. Not so fast, chica. Youre not going anywhere. Weve got big guns
now, so you just sit this one out.
Using Aphrodite in conjunction with her sword, T stood all the way up and straightened,
which elicited an audible groan.
Down you go. Down. Down. Tugging gently, she tried to get the woman to sit.
Bend your knees. Come on. Can you hear me? Hello! Youre half dead and we
dont want you to go all the way, so sit. Sit. Sit!
Panting heavily, a pair of dark brown eyes turned to look at a pair of blue ones. Using
the hand that held the Crown and was gripping Aphrodites shoulder for support, she
pushed it away and growled.
Two manicured hands flew off. Ooooo. I hate it when you do that. Stomping her
foot, she tried to get her to go down again and got growled at again. Okay.
Hands on hips, she took a firm stance. Listen, youre gonna sit down, so you
can just stop with the grrrrrr stuff. Its not going to work. Now, sit.
Pointing at the ground.
T showed her fangs and growled again.
Fine, do what you want. You cant say I didnt try. Washing her
hands of the affair, she moved to the far side of the warrior and folded her arms across
her chest and huffed.
Sighing, Xena hung her head. I dont believe this. Shes not going to bite
you. Shaking her weary head, she took the boy in both hands and held him up to the
goddess. Ill do it, just take him.
Hes naked. He might . . . you know on my outfit. Waving her hands in
front of her sheer pink get up.
Aphrodite. Growling herself, the warrior glared at her. Take him,
now.
Eeeeewwww. I just got this outfit, ya know? Shaking her head, she stepped
back.
As the two fought for custody of her son, T began moving forward. Her steps halted and
unsteady, she walked slowly toward the backs of the Ancients. Stepping over the
unconscious, or dead Guards, she weaved her way through them with her eyes straining to
see between the heads in front of her. When she could go no further, she stopped to
listen.
This is the sword of the rightful King. The Sword of Dahok and I claim this land and
this world as mine!
Two over sensitive ears went back and she placed a hand on someones shoulder. When
they turned around, she gave them a gentle push and slipped through the line. Taking a few
steps more, she was beside Katai and stopped. Then I guess you wont be needing
this? Rasping out the words, T brought her arm up, holding the Crown in front of
her.
Shifting his gaze, Dahok caught sight of the golden circlet and growled. That
belongs to me!
Working up a smile, she tossed it at the foot of the bridge. Come and get it, but it
wont make you King. Its just a piece of jewelry, Dahok. The only significance
it holds is what you place on it. If you want it, you can have it. Lowering her arm,
she gently moved Katai back. I wont fight you for it. Shaking her head,
she waited to see what he would do.
Your ploy is wasted, Daughter of Ungara. I dont need your permission to take
the Crown. It belongs to me. Lifting his sword, he aimed it at her. As does
your son. You took mine from me and now Ill take yours.
Sighing, T slumped her shoulders, sending a new trail of blood out from her wounds.
My son doesnt belong to you and he never will, and just for the record.
Im not Ungaras daughter, so stop calling me that. Sounding mildly
irritated, she sighed again and changed the subject in hopes of regaining more of her
strength by stalling. These are your relatives, not me. Pointing from side to
side. Ungara chose my ancestors, he didnt sire them. Just like they chose
their clans. We dont even look anything alike, okay? Ungara is not in my gene pool
and neither are you, so just get it straight will ya? You had your chance at a clan and
you blew it, so stop trying to crowd in on mine. You want a family, you got one and here
they are. If you dont like em? Tough, thats life. You dont get to
choose your relatives, so youre stuck just like everybody else. If you dont
want them around? Dont invite them for Thanksgiving, but dont come crying to
me because youre stuck with a bunch of people who are more trouble than theyre
worth. You want to blame somebody? Blame your parents. Theyre the ones who pumped
out brothers like a Pez dispenser. Theyre the ones who made you share, not me. If
you think theyre crowding in on your turf, well welcome to the club. Ive got
nearly fifty million people to take care of, who yank my chain every minute of every day.
You think its easy to wear that Crown? Well its not and dont think that
being a god is going to help, because its not. That just means that you can be
yanked 24 hours a day, because they know you dont have to sleep, eat and expect you
to be at their beckon call all the time. Wheres my college tuition? Wheres my
lunch money? Wheres my pat on the head for doing the job Im supposed to? Yak,
yak, yak. On and on. And if you think youll get rid of them? Forget it. They are
everywhere, do you hear me? You cant turn around without one staring you in the face
and holding out their hand. Ooooo. I got a paper cut. Heal it. Ooooo. I was stupid enough
to go parachuting and my chute didnt open. Fix it. Help! Ive fallen and I
cant get up . . .
Xena didnt succeed in handing off the boy and now she was listening in amazement as
the toddler turned into a preteen, while his mother ranted and raved. Put on some
pants. She whispered absently and held onto his hand. Still cradling the bard with
one arm, she sat in wonder, trying to tell if T had lost her mind. At first she thought it
had been a stall tactic, but as her friend continued, she was waiting to find out if she
was next on the bitch list.
Geez! And I thought blondie could talk the paint off the wall. Standing on her
toes, the goddess shook her head. What she trying to do? Talk him to death?
Coughing her way back to consciousness, Gabrielle winced at the pain and opened her eyes.
Xena?
Im right here, Gabrielle. Smiling, she looked down into bloodshot green
eyes. Its okay. Im right here.
Very groggy, the bard had to stare for a long moment until her mind cleared enough to
recognize her wife. Then she smiled, as more of her surroundings came into view. Did
we win?
Not yet. Rolling her eyes, the warrior helped her wife to sit up more and
pointed over the bards shoulder. Dahok is still on the bridge, but
nobodys fighting right now.
Confused, Gabrielle closed her eyes and leaned into Xena, resting her head on her
shoulder. Taking some deep breaths, she opened her eyes and looked up. Blinking, her
forehead wrinkled and she leaned her head back to get a better look at the young man
standing close by. Xena? Whos that? Pointing with one finger, she got a
bright face turned her way and a broad smile.
Thats Junior and dont ask, because we do not know. Nodding,
Aphrodite sat down beside them. Im just glad he got some pants on.
Gabrielle had to close her eyes at that one. Okay and I dont want to
know. Taking some more cleansing breaths, she rested heavily on the warrior, who
wrapped her arm around her shoulders for support. So, what is going on?
Well, right now, T is kind of yelling at Dahok. I think its to stall, but
Im not sure anymore. Laying her head against the bards, she gave it a soft
kiss.
Ts alive. Opening her eyes, Gabrielle lifted her head. I
thought?
Yea, well, so did everybody else till Katai said she wasnt and even then it
was iffy, ya know? Wobbling her hand, the Goddess of Love looked doubtful.
Katai? Turning her head, the bard saw the wall of bodies for the first time.
Are those?
Yep. The old geezers showed up after I started giving Dahok something to think
about. Bobbing her head, Aphrodite smiled. Better late than never, huh?
Glancing over her shoulder, she shrugged. The gangs all here.
How long have I been out? Holding her head, Gabrielle fell back into
Xenas arms.
Not long. Smiling, she gave Gabrielles forehead a kiss then looked up at
Junior, who was now working on his mid teens. You okay? Squeezing his hand,
she got a squeeze back and a nod. Do you want to sit down?
Shaking his head, Junior was becoming very interested in what was going on on the the
other side of the Ancients. Standing on his tip toes, he peeked in between a couple of
heads. Moving from side to side, he stepped to one side and frowned.
Whats wrong? Tugging on his hand, the warrior kept her eye on him, but
could still hear T talking, so everything wasnt totally wrong. Junior?
Frowning harder, he let go of Xenas hand and stepped up.
Shit! Aphrodite! Pointing, she tried to get him back, but the bard and her
broken leg prevented it. Ow. Get him.
Lunging forward, the goddess wrapped her arms around his ankle. No, ya
dont.
Held in place, Junior tugged on his leg and leaned forward. Staring through two heads, he
was looking at Dahok through a slit about two inches wide. Taking a step, he pulled the
goddess along and moved to stand directly behind the line of Ancient gods.
This is a new outfit!. Hanging on, the goddess was pulled over some sharp
rocks that didnt suit her liking. Owwie.
Gabrielle, can you get him? Trying to scoot forward, Xenas leg was
burning from the movement, but she was reaching for all she was worth, trying to get hold
of Aphrodites foot.
Sitting up again, the bard took in the situation and lunged after the goddess, ignoring
the pain in her body and caught Aphrodite around the knees. Okay.
Grabbing the bards ankles, the warrior wrapped both arms around them and began
pushing back with her good leg. Come on, big boy. Come on back. We gotcha now.
Dahok stood speechless for sometime, virtually mesmerized by the woman, who was so near
death that she could barely stand up, yet seemed to be able to ramble without taking a
breath. The Crown at the foot of the bridge was somewhat forgotten and from the looks that
his brothers were giving her, he knew this was not a ploy. They didnt know what was
going on, anymore than he did. So, after hearing his family besmirched and her complete
irritation with the duties of being King, he was held under her spell for a few more
minutes before he could shake the incessant chatter going through his head.
Enough! Shaking his head, he covered one ear with his hand. I have heard
enough! Taking a breath, he glared at the woman behind his misery. You have
wasted enough of my time today. You will not delay me any longer.
Shrugging, T looked unfazed. I was just trying to let you know what youre in
for. Thats all.
A ripple of head shakes went down the line of Ancients as they too were snapped out of the
spell.
Your troubles are over, so be thankful when I end your life. You will no longer bear
the responsibility of the Crown. Halfway smirking, he started down the bridge for
the Crown.
Lifting her sword, T stepped forward. Actually, Dahok. I think Ive changed my
mind. I think I just needed to vent and I dont think youll be taking the Crown
today, or tomorrow, or any other day for that matter. Smiling, she lowered her sword
as she approached and flipped the Crown into the air with the tip of her sword sending it
over her head and behind the line of Ancients.
It took his anger less time to come back than it did to disappear and as the Crown went
out of sight, he roared in fury. Raising his sword, he charged down the bridge toward T.
That Crown belongs to me!
Losing her smile, T brought her sword up, holding it straight out from her body. Knowing
she was only going to have one chance at this, she watched him carefully. Setting her
feet, she held her ground and ignored the movement to either side and the mumbled curses,
then she felt a hand on her shoulder. Giving whomever a shove, her eyes were glued to the
demon. Then the hand slid down her arm and wrapped around the one she held her sword with.
Unable to take her eyes off Dahok, she tried to push back with her body and ran into
someone solid. Growling, she didnt have time for this and was about to make a more
forceful gesture when Dahok stopped in his tracks, then it only took a second for her to
know who was behind her.
No longer frowning, Junior let go his mothers hand and stood beside her staring at
the person on the bridge.
Smiling, Dahok chuckled. So, my son has grown up, has he? Good. Nodding, he
lowered his sword and held out his hand. Come to me, my son. Come to your master.
Bring me the Crown.
Arching an eyebrow, the baby turned man tilted his head and held up what had landed in his
hands a few moments prior. Turning it over several times, he watched the light dance off
the polished gold, which made him smile. Looking up, he took a step toward the bridge.
Thats right. Bring it to me. I am your master. Thats mine. Staying
put, he continued to smile and hold out his hand.
Her eyes never wavering from Dahok, T whispered and switched sword hands. Placing a gentle
one on the shoulder of her son.
You cannot stop what is right. He knows who the rightful King is. Come, my
son. Nodding in encouragement, he softened his smile. Come on.
Junior, no! Hopping on one leg, Xena shoved her way through the line, using
the shoulders as support. That doesnt belong to him and neither do you.
Turning his head, Junior saw the three women come through the line and smiled at them.
Hobbling over to T, the warrior held onto Katai and was joined by the bard and the
goddess, as they watched his simple innocent face go through a stage of confusion.
Do not listen to them, my son. Raising his voice, Dahok glared at the trio.
They are jealous of what you possess and want to keep you from bringing me what is
mine. They are mortals and unworthy of you.
Looking between them, Juniors eyes lowered to the Crown again and then he stepped
back, out of the reach of the hand on his shoulder.
Junior, no. Shaking her head, Gabrielle leaned down to catch his eyes.
Listen to me. Were your family, not him. You are not his son. He is not your
father. Ares is, remember? Youve got his eyes and his hair, and youve got your
Mothers smile. Smiling herself, she could see the tiniest of smiles on his
face. Thats right. Id know that smile anywhere because Ive watched
it grow for a long time, waiting for you.
Lifting his eyes, Junior smiled shyly.
Come on, sweet pea. You dont want to go with him. Hes all
eeewwwie. Shaking her head, Aphrodite smiled.
Turning his head, he looked at the person on the bridge.
Do not listen to them, my son. Shaking his head, Dahok nodded. You
belong with me. You are a god and you belong at my side, so we can rule the world.
Taking a step closer, he wiggled his fingers. Come now, so we can begin our reign.
Bring me the Crown.
Junior sighed and looked back down at the Crown in his hands. Then they slowly rose again
to take in the profile of the woman with the sword in her hands. The side of her face was
torn and bloody. Her neck and shoulder was in the same shape. As he moved his eyes
downward, all he could see were wounds, blood, and ripped skin. When his eyes reached the
ground, he saw that she was standing in a pool of blood, soaking the ground around her
feet. Mama.
Turning her head, Ts eyes slowly left Dahok and she met the dark pools that
shed loved so much in Ares and now loved in her son. Staring at him, she saw that
hed grown taller than his father and smiled. Gabriel.
Xena smiled and looked down at the bard, who had her hand over her mouth, with tears
forming in her eyes. Wrapping her arms around Gabrielle, she pulled her close.
Hearing his name for the first time, he looked up and into her eyes. There, behind dark
brown gates, he saw into her soul filled with pain, sorrow, determination and love. The
last shone brighter than a thousand suns warming his soul, making him smile. Then he
turned to Dahok and searched the black eyes of the person on the bridge. Inside the dark
orbs he found no soul. Just lust, greed, desire, anger and evil. A tainted and twisted
hatred radiating from behind the smiling mask, that sent a chill over his soul. Bad
man. I dont like you. Shaking his head, he held the Crown out to his mother.
Mamas.
Gabrielle almost collapsed in Xenas arms from relief. Thank you.
Dahok had a different reaction. One that was instantaneous and deadly. Dropping his smile,
as he raised his sword and charged down the bridge, he aimed the blade at the face
frowning at him. Then die! Roaring, he leapt off the wooden structure and
drove his sword into the chest of T.
Roaring to match his, the King of the Ungara shoved her son behind her and took the blade
meant to end his life, driving her own into Dahoks heart, as they came together.
Roaring again, they both were knocked to the ground by the force and she hit hard, driving
her golden sword in up to the hilt, as his went though her, into the soil against her
back.
Noooooooooo. Grabbing Junior, Xena threw him to the ground and was knocked
aside, along with the two blondes as the bodies flew past. Rolling, she was on her feet
and by the pair in a heartbeat. Seeing the gold sticking out of Dahoks back, she
paused, watching his body wither on top of her friend in agony and fury. Kneeling quickly,
she shoved his massive form, using her good leg, all the strength she had and a power
surging up from her core. Get off her! Joined by some helping hands, she
rolled the demon over and saw T covered in his blood and the hilt of his sword in her
chest. No. Oh, god. No. Leaning over, she jerked Dahoks sword upward,
then flung it behind her, into the river.
Pouncing on Dahok, his brothers dragged him away and waled on his undulating form with
their weapons.
Driving the golden sword into the ground with the broad side of his battle axe, Katai put
his foot on the hilt and swung the axe high to come down on Dahoks neck.
Pinned by the sword in his chest, Dahok screamed as his body was torn apart. Spewing black
blood from his lips, he cursed them, even as his head was severed from his body.
Doing what they had been unable to do at the dawn of time, the brothers finished what
Ungara had started and what T had nearly completed. Joined by their ensigns, they
continued to mutilate the carcass until the Sword of Ungara was left standing, with
nothing more than a black rancid stilled heart around its blade.
Falling to her knees beside the warrior, Gabrielle looked down at T. No. Dont
do this. Looking into her eyes, she could only she a faint glow of life that slid
from the corner of her eye, as they turned to return her gaze. Come on. Hang on,
now.
Drowning in her own blood, T coughed to clear her lungs and take in a breath. Looking up
into a pair of crying green eyes, she smiled. You and Xena take my son and love
him.
No. Shaking her head, Xena pushed the bard aside and took Ts shoulders
in her hands. No, we wont take him. Hes yours. You have to stay. He
needs you.
Coughing again, she sent another mouthful of blood down the sides of her face and shook
her head. I will live in his heart and his soul. Closing her eyes, she smiled.
No, you can live. Junior can fix you. Hes a god. Turning around, the
warrior searched for him. Junior! Get over here. Spying the man-sized boy,
sitting with the Crown in his lap, she waved at the goddess. Aphrodite, bring him
over.
Nodding, she smiled and knelt down beside Junior. Come on, sweet pea. Lets get
rid of Mommys boo boos, okay?
Looking up, Gabriel had tears in her eyes.
Come on. Tugging gently, Aphrodite pulled him to his feet and led him over to
where his mother was dying. Down you go. Putting some pressure on his
shoulder, she went down with him. Thats a good boy.
Kneeling, he sat down and lifted Ts hand. Using his own fingers, he wrapped
hers around the Crown and put it on her stomach. Mamas. His voice
a quivering whisper.
Okay, Gabriel. Wiping her eyes, Xena shook her head. Listen to me,
okay. Putting a finger under his chin, she turned his face to hers. We need
you to do something. We need you to use your powers to keep Mama from going away. Can you
do that?
Confused, he looked from his mother to the warrior.
Xena, let me. Pushing gently on her shoulder, Gabrielle took the
warriors place in front of her namesake. Hi there. Smiling, she sat down
beside her friend and took his hand in hers. Im Gabrielle and Im
gonna help you, okay?
Gabrielle. Ungara spoke softly, as he came up behind them. He cant
help her.
Yes, he can! Turning to glare, the warrior growled. Hes a god. He
can heal her.
Shaking his head sadly, he knelt down beside the bard. Look at his hand.
Taking Gabriels hand from Gabrielle, he wiped off the blood and held it up.
The soul has passed.
Frowning in frustration, Xena looked at the hand and saw claws where fingernails
shouldve been. No. Looking back to T, she pulled her hand off the Crown.
Wiping off the finger tips with her shirt, she held them up and sighed. Were
not too late.
Seeing the same claws T always had, Gabrielle turned to Ungara. He can still save
her.
Mine. Taking his hand back, Junior shook his head. Not
Mamas. Staring at four confused faces, he blinked and began to pout.
Mine? Balling his hands into fists, he tucked them under his chin.
Not Mamas? Seeing the adult version of the newborn, the bard turned to
the warrior.
That doesnt mean anything. Shaking her head, Aphrodite slapped
Ungaras shoulder. He was born with those. He had them the whole time, you
stupid geezer. I saw them when they handed him to me and her soul cant pass anyway.
Hes not a real Tiger. Hes half Ares, you dope.
Confused, Ungara shook his head. That cant be. Only the King has the soul and
it takes the soul to get those claws.
Oh, get with the program. Rolling her eyes, the goddess sighed. All that
stale air mustve pickled your grape. Pointing to him, like it was obvious.
Hes the new and improved version. Shes still got her soul. How many
times do I have to explain this to you? You made the rules here.
Coming back to the point, Xena grabbed Juniors hand from under his chin and put it
on Ts chest, holding it there with her own. Listen, Gabriel. Staring
intently into his dark confused and frightened eyes, she smiled. You can save her.
You have the power, okay. All you have to do is think about it. Concentrate on keeping
Mama here. Just close your eyes and think. Think about keeping her heart beating and
getting rid of all her wounds. Go head.
Nodding, Gabriel closed his eyes.
See her in your mind without the wounds. Make them go away. Talking quietly,
she moved closer.
Scooting out of the way, Gabrielle moved to the other side and watched Ts body.
Come on, T. Just hang in here.
The Ancients tossed the bits of remains of their brother into the river, to join his sword
and watched the water bubble, as it absorbed his body, washing it away in hundreds of
pieces.
Staring across the river, Katai saw that the wall of fire was gone with its master,
but what it left behind made him want to cry. For as far as the eye could see, there was
nothing but charred ruins of the beautiful forest. The light breeze whipped up fingers of
ash in the smoke drifting from the forest floor. Shaking his head, he turned from the
sight to join his brothers and the ensigns in the circle theyd formed around the
fallen King. Sliding through, he knelt beside Ungara. It is finished.
Nodding absently, Ungara stared at the hands on Ts chest. An eternity passed as he
watched for any sign of change.
Come on, Gabriel. You can do it. I believe in you and so does your Mom.
Whispering words of encouragement, Gabrielle smiled at him, though his eyes were still
closed. You can do it.
Closing her eyes, Xena pressed her hand into his, in an effort to will his power to work.
Come on. You can do it. I know you can.
Placing her hand on top of the warriors, the bard closed her eyes as well.
Please work. Please.
Slowly, a golden glow spread out from under the three hands. Moving like water, it
shimmered its way outward, gliding over Ts body.
Pounding on Ungaras shoulder, Aphrodite bobbed her head and smiled. You, go
boy.
Wincing, the Ancient smiled anyway. She always said that through love, anything was
possible.
As the glow continued to grow, everyone watched with anticipation, in the hopes that this
newborn god, with his unknown powers could overcome Ungaras soul and heal T. That it
could bring the King back to life, as well as the others whod fallen to Dahoks
evil rampage. Not forgotten were the lifeless bodies outside the circle. Ares and Cargan
laid in silent stillness beneath a tree next to Bud, who was hanging on to life by a
thread. The Guards, whod sacrificed themselves to protect the heirs to the throne,
had passed to the other side while the battle continued without them. Sucumbing to the
burns, they lay not far from the circle, still in the line theyd formed while alive.
The glow spreading outward was a hope that all could be restored to its rightful
place and bring some joy to the tragedy of the day.
**********
TBC
No Epilogue, yet.
Thanks for reading.
FlyBigD