-- Chapter 12 --

"You're looking awfully cheerful for someone who was out half the night," Lila noted.

"Yeah," the bard smiled. Her slight hangover seemed a small price to pay for glimpsing a side of Ryder that he didn't often show.

Lila looked at her older sister with concern. Even though it was clear Gabrielle was in much better spirits than when she'd first arrived, it worried her how much time her sister was spending at the tavern. "You're pretty serious about him, aren't you?"

"Huh?"

"You know, Ryder. You've been seeing a lot of him."

Gabrielle pulled nervously at a loose thread on her skirt. "He's been a good friend to me, that's all."

"I don't mean to pry. I just hate to see you get hurt." She rushed on. "Its just…well…Ryder's not very…you know…like I said, he has bad a reputation with women."

"He's been kind to me," the bard said quickly. "I like him."

"Gab, I just want you to be careful. He's not the type to settle down with one woman."

The bard released a heavy sigh. "Did Mom put you up to this?"

"No, but she's worried and so is Dad."

Frowning, Gabrielle shook her head in frustration."

"Can you blame them?" Lila defended. "Up until now you've had practically no experience with men. Then suddenly you start dating the town gigolo."

"We're not dating," the bard insisted. "Trust me, there's nothing to worry about. He's not my type." She averted her eyes nervously. "Anyway, I'll be leaving with Xena soon."

"Yeah, I know," Lila acknowledged sadly.

Hearing a tinge of melancholy in her sister's voice, she laid her hand on her arm. "What is it?"

"I guess it's silly, but I had hoped that maybe this time you'd stay."

"Lila, I--" She paused, carefully choosing her words. "Lila, I don't fit here. In fact, I never did. I think it took coming back, for me to remember why I'd left."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. I like my life," the bard assured her.

"But don't you ever get lonely out on the road?"

"I never feel lonely when I'm with Xena."

"I know, but don't you ever feel the need to settle down, to share your life with someone?"

"Of course. It's just--" She hesitated, trying to decide if it was safe to open up to her sister.

"Gab, I don't mean to tell you how to live your life, but you're missing out on so much. Caring about one special person is such a wonderful thing. Everyone should experience it."

Taking a deep breath, Gabrielle turned to face her sister. Never in her life had she felt more vulnerable. There was so much at stake, so much more than she had risked with Ryder. "Lila, I have experienced it…I…" Feeling the heat rise to her face, she quickly glanced away.

"But, I though you said you and Ryder were just friends."

"I'm not talking about Ryder."

"But who? You never stay in one place long enough to--" The expression on Gabrielle's face stopped her mid-sentence. Instantly, she knew. "Xena?"

The bard nodded.

"Xena?!" she exclaimed, shocked by her sister's admission.

"Lila, the way I feel when I'm with her, I--"

"--You're involved w--with Xena?"

"It's not like that. I--"

The anxiety in Gabrielle's voice spoke volumes. Taking a deep breath, Lila looked into her sister's eyes for confirmation. "No, it's more, isn't it? You're in love with her."

She nodded. "With all my heart."

"Gab, she's a woman. You're b-both women," she stammered.

"I know. But I can't help the way I feel."

"I can't believe this," Lila replied. "Y--you always seemed normal."

Her sister's comment struck her like a physical blow. "Lila, I never was 'normal'. I've always been this way. I--I've always felt different. But because I was afraid of losing my family, I kept my feelings hidden so no one would find out.

The pain in Gabrielle's eyes tore at the younger woman's heart. Taking her sister into her arms, she held her close. "Gab, I'm so sorry. I can't image how difficult this must be for you."

The bard pulled back tearfully. "It's better now that I've finally come to terms with it. I don't know how to explain it, but suddenly, things have changed for me. For the first time in my life, I'm allowing myself to feel…really feel. After all this time, I've finally accepted myself for who and what I really am."

Reaching out, Lila took her hand supportively. "So, what are you going to do?"

She shrugged.

"What about Mom and Dad? You aren't planing to tell them, are you?"

"At this point, there's no reason to. It would only upset them."

"If it turns out that Xena loves you too, would you tell them then?"

"I'm not sure." She clutched her hands to keep them from trembling. "I haven't thought that far, but I guess if I wanted them to be a part of my life, I'd have to."

Lila released a heavy sigh. "Gab, you're my sister and I love you, but if others found out, they just wouldn't understand. It could make you an outcast. Please, before you do anything rash, think about what you'd be risking."

Gabrielle met her sister's eyes unflinchingly, her conviction clear. "If I thought Xena cared for me in the same way, I'd do whatever it took to be with her."

"You'd give up everything?"

"In a heartbeat. Wouldn't you give everything up for Graham?"

"But Xena? Why?"

"She's changed my life…touched my heart. From the first day I met her, it was as if she stepped out of my dreams. She's everything I ever wanted…brave…and dependable…and strong…and funny…and caring and sometimes even vulnerable. There are so many things I love about her."

"So, when she comes, are you going to tell her how you feel?"

The bard raked her fingers through her hair. "I'm not sure. I don't know if I can get up the courage. A part of me is terrified that if she knew, I'd lose her friendship…and then there's this other part that dreams she…."

Her sister nodded in understanding. "I know it's not the same but, it was hard for me to tell Graham too."

"So, how did you do it?"

"Well…" She paused. "For a long time I couldn't. It wasn't until--" She smiled warmly as she remembered. "This one day he showed up unexpectedly when I was working in the garden. You should have seen me. I was such a mess, covered in dirt from head to toe. I was so embarrassed to have him see me that way. But it was as if he didn't even notice. He just smiled and reached out to help me to my feet." Lila blushed at the memory. "The look in his eyes was so loving I--" She sighed happily. "Anyway, that brief glimpse into his heart gave me the courage to tell him."

"If only I could know how Xena felt."

"Anyone can see that she cares about you. Maybe you just need to do something to get her attention…make her take notice."

"Like what?"

"I don't know." She paused to think. "You could get dressed up."

"Xena never notices things like that."

"Hmm." Lila gazed at her sister thoughtfully. "We could do something different with your hair-- curl or braid it."

Gabrielle's face lit up. "Or maybe something a little bolder."

"Bolder?"

The blonde nodded. "Let's cut it short."

"Isn't that a little drastic?" she protested.

"Maybe, but it's bound to get her attention."

"But it's so beautiful," Lila objected. Reaching out she lightly ran her fingers through it.

Gabrielle took a deep breath. "Maybe it's time for a change."

Drawing the bard's hair back, Lila tried to envision how the new cut would look. "You know, I never noticed, but you have a great neck."

Gabrielle smiled. "Three times is a charm."

"Huh?"

"It's just, you're the third person to tell me that. Maybe it's meant to be." She cast her sister a beseeching look. "So what do you say? Will you help?"

Lila rolled her eyes and pulled her father's knife from the sheath on the wall. "Who am I to stand in the way of destiny?"

*****

"Wow, look at you!" Ryder walked slowly around her, checking the new cut out from all angles. "It' looks terrific. Really sexy."

Rose approached with their drinks and smiled. "It really does look very nice."

"Thanks Rose." She blushed shyly and turned to Ryder. "Do you think she'll like it?"

"How can she not?" He smiled. "I can't get over how much older you look…quite a change. You definitely made the right decision."

"I made another too."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, I've decided to tell her."

"I have to say, I admire your courage."

"What courage? I'm terrified. I haven't got a clue how I'm going to do it."

"The answer seems obvious to me."

"Oh?"

"You're a bard, after all. Aren't word's your thing?"

She lowered her mug and looked at him, her mind flashing back to her first encounter with the prophet. "Words?"

"Your special talent is storytelling, right?"

"But, this is different. What if I get tongue-tied?"

"The written word can be very powerful too. Why don't you write her?"

"Write her?"

"Yeah, a love letter. If you put your feelings in a letter, you don't have to worry about the words coming out wrong. You don't even have to be there when she reads it."

"You know Ryder, that's a good idea."

"You don't have to sound so surprised. I do have them on occasion, you know."

She smiled softly and met his eyes. "Can I ask you something…something personal?"

"Would saying no stop you?"

She blushed hotly.

"Come on. Go ahead, ask. After peeing on my boot, I guess there isn't anything we can't share."

"It's just…well…I was wondering…is there anything I can do…anything else I can change to make myself more…more desirable to her?"

Ryder took her hands in his. "Just be yourself. Trust me, you can't go wrong."

Bending forward, she kissed him lightly on the cheek. "Ryder, I think Rose is a very lucky woman."

*****

It was dark by the time Xena arrived in the small farming community. Seeing the warm glow of candlelight inside Gabrielle's house, she nervously stepped up to the door and knocked.

"Xena! What a surprise!" Lila exclaimed as she motioned her in.

"Is there something wrong?" Hecuba asked hurrying over to them. "We weren't expecting you until after the wedding."

"Everything's fine, I had to run an errand for my brother so I came back a little early." The warrior looked anxiously past them. "Is Gabrielle awake?"

Setting his pipe on the table, Herodotus spoke up gruffly. "She's at the tavern."

"The tavern?" Xena repeated, unable to mask her surprise.

"Yeah, she's been going there almost every night." Lila responded, a plan quickly formulating in her mind. "There's this guy."

The young woman's casual statement hit the warrior like a blow to the stomach. For a moment, she feared her knees would buckle.

"We've been a little concerned," Hecuba added nervously. "This boy she's been seeing…he's…well…he's not--"

"--Not what?" Xena asked tensely.

Lila broke in. "Mom's trying to say that he has a bad reputation with women." She paused to let the information sink in. "I warned Gab about him, but she insists on seeing him."

Herodotus rose angrily from his chair. "I tell you, the girl's completely lost her senses."

"Maybe you could talk to her," Hecuba asked gently.

The warrior's head reeled. "I--"

Hecuba broke in nervously. "--It's just that Gabrielle thinks so highly of you."

Xena's heart clenched in her chest. How serious had things gotten between Gabrielle and this boy for her family to be asking for help? Suddenly she felt as if her entire world was crumbling around her. It was all she could do to force the words to reassure the bard's distraught mother. "Gabrielle's a good judge of character. Maybe--"

"--He's nothing but a philanderer!" Herodotus barked. "And everyone in town knows it." Struggling to control his temper, he looked up at Xena. "She won't listen to any of us. Maybe you can talk some sense into her."

Shifting uneasily, she took a deep breath. "I'd like to help, but it's really not my place to interfere. Gabrielle knows her own mind. Her instincts about people are good."

Disappointed but resigned, Hecuba turned to Lila. "Help Xena bring her things inside. She must be tired from her trip."

"That's kind of you but I won't be staying long."

"Suit yourself," Herodotus replied, abruptly walking away.

Wishing she'd never come, Xena turned and slipped quietly through the door. Outside of the house, she stopped and leaned against the rail, her stomach suddenly queasy. She'd been a fool to think Gabrielle could ever return her feelings. Inhaling deeply, she quickly made her way to the barn. Once she was inside, the walls seemed to close in around her. She couldn't stay, not now. What was the point? The dream was over. She'd been deluding herself. Grabbing Argo's blanket, she spread it across the mare's back and reached for her saddle.

Lila stood frozen in the doorway, watching. Although she'd been there for only a few moments, two things became instantly clear: the warrior obviously cared more for her sister than she let on, and, that in trying to make Xena jealous, she only succeeded in pushing her away. Taking a deep breath, she stepped forward signaling her presence. Somehow, she had to make this right.

Caught off guard, Xena spun around anxiously.

"I didn't mean to intrude. I just wanted a moment alone with you without my parents around. I know they acted a little odd…but they're worried about Gab."

"Just how bad is this guy Lila? Do they have cause to worry?"

Lila paused, unsure how to respond. If she said yes, would Xena stay long enough for her sister to straighten everything out or would she leave anyway. "Maybe," Lila hedged. "But not for the reasons they think." She took a step toward the warrior. "Please, just stay the night. You can talk to her in the morning."

Xena shook her head. "Gabrielle's a smart woman, I'm sure she knows what she's doing." Turning away, she tightened Argo's saddle and slipped her bridle on.

"B--but you can't leave yet." Lila stuttered as she frantically searched her mind for a way to stall her.

The warrior pulled Argo toward the door. "My business here is finished."

"W--what should I tell Gabrielle?" she stammered.

Flooded with emotion, Xena could barely reply. "Just tell her I had to go." Putting her foot in the stirrup, she gracefully mounted.

"But when will you be back?"

"I don't know." Gently, she urged Argo forward.

"Wait! Please!"

The desperation in the young woman's voice brought the warrior to an abrupt halt.

Taking a relieved breath, Lila ran to her side. The only thing she knew to do now was tell Xena the truth. It was the only way she could think of to keep the warrior from leaving. "There's so much you don't understand…so much about Gabrielle that you don't know. She cares so very much for--"

The barn door creaked as Hecuba entered.

Turning to her mother, the last word of Lila's sentence died in her throat.

"Xena, I don't mean to trouble you," Hecuba said meekly. "I'm sure after all the time you and Gabrielle have spent together you probably know her better than any of us. But something's wrong. Ever since you left for Amphipolis, she hasn't been herself. I'm really concerned. I can see you're in a hurry to get on your way, but if you could stop by to see her on your way out of town…talk to her…make sure she's okay. I would feel so much better about things."

Moving to her mother's side, Lila met the warrior's eyes. "Please."

*****

Standing outside the tavern, Xena's keen hearing honed in on her friend's laughter amidst the boisterous crowd. The musical sound that in the past had always lifted her spirits now stabbed painfully at her heart. It was clear Lila and Hecuba were mistaken about the bard being distressed. Gabrielle had never sounded happier.

More than anything, she wanted to turn and head out of town, but she knew she couldn't. She'd made a promise and was bound to keep it. Placing her hand on the iron handle, she took a deep breath and pushed the door open.

As she caught sight of the bard at the far side of the room, she was instantly struck by the change in her friend's appearance. Gabrielle's short haircut framed her face beautifully, emphasizing the long, graceful line of her neck. The transformation was shocking. It revealed an entirely different side of the young woman, a sensual maturity that the warrior found incredibly alluring.

Head tipped back in laughter the bard seemed utterly captivated with the attractive dark-haired man beside her. Xena's heart sank. She took an awkward step backward and contemplated leaving.

A tingling warmth raced across the surface of Gabrielle's skin, stopping her mid-sentence. As if sensing the warrior's presence, she turned to the door and flashed a huge smile. "Xena!" Jumping to her feet, she ran toward her friend and hugged her affectionately.

Like a potent drug, Gabrielle's scent washed over her, leaving her weak. Instantly, she was lost in the feel of the young woman's velvety skin. It was all she could do to restrain herself…all she could do not to tip the bard's head back and taste the creamy, soft flesh of her exposed neck.

Pushing the thought from her mind, Xena struggled to calm her racing heart.

"I didn't expect you so soon!" Gabrielle exclaimed, smiling up at her brightly.

Utterly entranced by the radiant blonde, the warrior had trouble finding her voice.

Sensing that something was amiss, the bard's brow furrowed with concern. "Is everything okay?"

"Yeah, I…ah… I just had an errand to run. Everything's fine. I'll explain later."

"We can go and find someplace quiet to talk," Gabrielle offered.

"No, It can wait. I didn't mean to interrupt."

"You didn't. I'm so glad to see you." Grabbing the warrior's arm, she urged her forward. "There's someone I'd like you to meet." She motioned to a handsome man seated at the table. "This is my friend Ryder." She turned to the dark-haired man, her face nearly glowing with pride. "Ryder, this is Xena."

"Nice to meet you," he greeted, stretching out his hand. "Please…join us."

"Thanks." She moved to the seat across from the bard and sat down.

"Back early, aren't you?" he commented.

There was something about his casual familiarity that she found unsettling. "I had some business to attend to," she replied stiffly.

"Oh? And here I thought you might have been missing your friend. She's such great company. You've been a lucky woman to have had her as a traveling companion."

Noting his use of the past tense, Xena forced a smile.

Ryder continued. "She's not only beautiful but also utterly charming don't you think?"

Kicking him under the table, Gabrielle turned to the warrior. "Xena, would you like a drink?"

"No, thanks, I'm kind of tired."

"Awww, come on," Ryder coaxed. "You can rest tomorrow."

The petite brunette seated beside Ryder piped up cheerfully. "Gabrielle's been sharing stories of your adventures. She's such a wonderful bard."

"Yes, she is," Xena agreed.

The stocky man to her left eyed the warrior with obvious admiration. "Have you really done all the incredible things she told us?"

"Probably not," Xena smiled. "Sometimes Gabrielle has a tendency to embellish her tales a bit."

"So you didn't really defeat a giant with a bolt of lightening?" the woman asked.

"Well…actually, that part is true."

"Wow!" the young man exclaimed.

"That's nothing," Ryder interjected. "Once I had to scale the side of the gorge while trying to escape an irate husband."

"Find yourself doing that often?" Xena asked, her annoyance clear.

"Nah," he winked, flashing a mischievous smile. "I hardly ever get caught." Pausing thoughtfully, he continued. "Of course, there was that one time…."

He went on, telling one bawdy story after another. With each tale, Xena became more and more ill at ease.

Gabrielle, on the other hand, seemed almost giddy with pleasure. Taking in his every word, she laughed heartily at each of his sordid exploits.

Hearing a door open in the back of the room, Xena watched a red-haired woman enter and head their way.

Ryder smiled as she approached. "Ah, Rose…as always, your timing is perfect. I’ll have a--"

Not allowing him to finish, she dropped the balled-up material she was holding onto the table in front of him.

Startled, he looked down to see a pair of underwear. "What’s this?"

"As if you didn't know."

"Well, obviously, they're women's breeches, but why are you giving them to me?"

"Seemed a pretty good bet that you might know who they belonged to."

Disturbed by yet another example of his indiscretion, Xena looked to the bard for her reaction.

Gabrielle stared mutely into her drink.

Rising from his seat, Ryder held the underwear up to his waist. In a comical display he pretended to seriously study them.

Xena glanced up, not bothering to mask her disapproval. Immediately her eyes fell to the intricate stitches on the left-hand side, stitches made by her own hand. There wasn't a doubt in her mind that they were Gabrielle's.

"Not really my size, Rose," Ryder joked. "Or color, for that matter." He smiled innocently as everyone at his table broke into laughter…everyone except, Xena and Gabrielle.

"I'm glad you find this humorous," Rose retorted angrily. "I was not nearly as amused when Tana found them outside this evening." She began to walk away, then turned. "Next time be decent enough to take your activities to a more private spot, will you?"

"Now you've done it, Ryder," one of his friends teased. "Rose took off without taking our drink order."

Unbearably uncomfortable, Gabrielle spoke up. "I'll go up to the bar and give her our order."

Seeing her obvious distress, Ryder rose from his seat. "I'll help."

As they approached the bar, he bent to her ear. "Don't be so glum. No one's the wiser."

"No one except Xena. She recognized them."

His eyes widened in surprise. "Well, that's good news, isn't it? She must be watching you pretty closely to know what your breeches look like."

She shook her head in frustration. "Xena mended them for me. She noticed the black thread on the side." Lowering her head to her hands, she groaned, "Gods… I can't believe this."

"Hey, take it easy. It's not so bad."

"What do you mean, not 'so bad'? She thinks I've been doing…who knows what outside the tavern. How am I ever going to explain this?"

"Hold up," he said soothingly. "If you're just friends, then why should she care about your little escapade?"

"It's humiliating, that's why. She's embarrassed for me."

He handed her the tray of glasses. "Listen, don't sweat it. It'll be fine."

After they took their places at the table, Gabrielle began pouring ale for everyone.

Ryder covered his glass with his hand. "No more for me. I really should get going. If I'm late for work one more time, I'll lose my job and my meager income. Then I won't even have a bed to sleep in."

"Not likely." The brunette commented wryly.

He smiled and topped off her glass. "Ah, then you'd be kind enough to share your bed with me?"

She winked provocatively. "You know I would."

He patted her arm. "I knew I could count on you." Taking the pitcher from Gabrielle, he filled his glass and raised it in toast. "What the heck…we only live once, right."

"For some, even once is too much," the warrior mumbled under her breath.

Smiling, he turned to her. "How about another?"

"No, I think I've had enough. If you'll excuse me, I had a long trip." Standing up abruptly, Xena began to walk away.

"Wait up," the bard called as her friend rushed through the door.

Ryder put his hand on Gabrielle's arm as she started to rise. "Well, you're right. You've definitely got a challenge there."

"I told you."

"Hey, don't worry. I have great faith in your abilities."

"Any last suggestions?"

He leaned toward her, softly whispering in her ear. "If I were you, I'd skip the formalities and go for the kiss. You have great talents there."

Smiling, she hugged him warmly and waved a quick goodbye to the others.

*****

"You were pretty quiet in there," Gabrielle commented. "Is everything okay?"

"Fine," the warrior replied curtly.

Sensing the dark-haired woman's agitation, she let the subject drop and twirled playfully. "Notice anything different?"

Xena couldn't help smiling. "Yeah…what brought that on?"

"I don't know. Ryder thought that it made me look older. What do you think?"

Bathed in the moonlight, the bard looked absolutely radiant. Xena could barely speak. "It's…uh…" She stumbled for words as she fought to keep her true feelings from showing. "It suits you," she replied mildly, quickly glancing away.

Struggling to hide her disappointment at the warrior's less-than-enthusiastic reaction, she went on. "So, what did you think of my new friends?"

Xena shrugged and continued walking.

"I know you didn't spend much time with them but they're really nice people. Especially Ryder. He's been wonderful. In the short time that I've been here, we've gotten quite close."

"I can see that." Xena replied tightly.

Noting the tension in the warrior's face, Gabrielle cast her a worried look. "Are you as tired as you look?"

"Too many late nights, I guess."

"Been partying a lot, huh?"

"You know me." Turning to the bard, she forced a smile and tried to keep the edge from her voice. "Looks like you've had your share of fun too. I guess you got over your uneasiness. You seem to be fitting right in."

"With those people, maybe. Ryder has really helped. I feel so comfortable around him. I--" She paused. Something wasn't right. The warrior was acting odd. "I'm sorry for running on so. It must be pretty boring for you."

"No, I'm glad you're happy, Gabrielle." Although spoken in a whisper, the words were sincere.

As they neared the barn, Xena stopped. "I'll stay in here for the night."

"Are you sure?"

The warrior nodded and opened the door.

"Mind if I come in for a bit?"

"No, come ahead."

Gabrielle followed her inside and took a seat on a bail of hay. "I know you're eager to get to sleep, but I don't think I can wait until morning to hear what brought you back ahead of schedule."

Fearing her eyes would reveal her longing and disappointment at being too late, Xena looked away. "There's been a rash of relationships breaking up in Amphipolis. Some of the men think a curse has been placed on their women."

The bard's eyebrows lifted in surprise.

"I know," the warrior admitted, "it's crazy."

"Why would they think such a thing?"

"It seems that all of a sudden their women have become dissatisfied with their relationships."

"So what do you think is really going on?"

Xena shrugged. "My guess is that the women are simply bored and little disgruntled. Unfortunately, it's easier for the men to believe that their mates have been enchanted than to examine their part in the break-ups."

"Then why'd you agree to help?"

"Even though I don't believe it's the work of a witch, there is something strange going on. Almost a dozen women have left their men."

"What reasons do they give?"

"They say it's their dreams."

"Dreams?" Gabrielle asked nervously. "When did this start?"

Xena shrugged. "Shortly after I left you here."

"Who's been affected? Anyone I know?"

Xena handed the bard the long list of names. "All of them say that they were visited by a spirit while they slept."

Gabrielle gripped the parchment tightly to keep her hands from trembling. This was all too coincidental. "Visited how? W--what did the spirit do to them?"

"I don't think it did anything…except make them feel discontented with their relationships."

The bard looked down at the list. "I know most of these women. They're pretty level-headed."

"Odd, isn't it?"

Still puzzling over the names, the bard nodded. "So what are you going to do?"

"I'm going to start by meeting with the person they think is responsible."

"Who's that?"

"A tall, silver-haired woman. She claims to be some sort of prophet."

"Xena, I've met Asia, talked to her. She does have a special gift." Seeing the doubt in her friend's eyes, she rushed on. "Really, she's told me things…things she never could have known."

"Gabrielle, it's a trick. There's always a reasonable explanation."

Not knowing how to defend the prophet without revealing herself, the bard changed tactics. "What possible motivation could she have?"

"Dinars. That's what it usually comes down to with these charlatans."

"She'd never do something like that," the bard protested. "They're just threatened by her free spirit, her unconventional ways. It makes her an easy scapegoat, that's all."

Xena shrugged. "I ran into her in the tavern here the night before I left for Amphipolis. I can't explain it but I don't trust her. Anyway, that's why I'm here. They sent a considerable sum with me to persuade her to reverse the spell."

"And you're actually going to present their offer?" the bard asked incredulously.

"I don't have much choice. I told Toris that I would."

"Toris is involved in this?"

"Sort of. His girlfriend had a dream too." The warrior lifted a hand to her mouth, stifling a yawn.

The uncharacteristic action troubled Gabrielle. "What about you? Have you been sleeping all right?"

Seeing the unspoken question in her friend's eyes, Xena smiled. "Don't give me that look. Spirits haven't been visiting me. In fact, lately I can't even recall dreaming."

The warrior's words failed to put the young woman's mind at ease. She had never seen her friend looking so weary. "When are you going to see the prophet?"

"I thought I'd go first thing in the morning."

"Mind if I come along?"

"No, I was hoping you would."

"Great, then it's settled. I'll see you in the morning." Reluctantly, she turned to leave, then stopped. "Xena, I'm glad you're back. I missed you."

Remembering Hecuba's concern, Xena looked more closely at her young companion. "How have things been going for you here? You okay?"

The bard smiled. "I am now."

As Gabrielle entered her bedroom, her heart felt a thousand times lighter. Just having the warrior nearby made her feel better. And although their reunion had been a little awkward at first, once they'd begun to talk, it was as if they'd never been apart. She smiled happily. They even had a mystery to solve.

Her thoughts drifted to the prophet. Somehow, she had to convince Xena that Asia was not causing the trouble in Amphipolis.

*****

-- Chapter 13 --

"You're up early," the warrior commented.

"Yeah, well, I though you might be hungry." Reaching out, Gabrielle handed her a plate of food.

"Thanks--I am." Taking a bite of the warm bread covered with honey, Xena looked up curiously. "Aren't you having any?"

"Nah, that's okay." As the bard watched her friend eat, she couldn't help noticing the dark circles under the warrior's eyes. "You still don't look rested. Did you have trouble sleeping last night?"

"I was feeling a little edgy. I ended up walking most of the night." Seeing the concern in Gabrielle's eyes, she quickly changed the subject. "Hey, this is really great bread. I'll bet you made it."

"Yeah, I put honey on it…the way you like it."

"Mmmm, I noticed." As the warrior raised it to her mouth, a drop of the syrupy confection dropped to her thigh.

Unable to tear her eyes from it, the bard stood, mesmerized.

Xena glanced at her friend curiously. "What is it?"

Pulled from her trance, Gabrielle pointed. "You…uh…you spilled a little." Swallowing hard, she collected it on the tip of her index finger and paused, the desire to taste it nearly overpowering. Instead, she quickly wiped it on her skirt. Suddenly, her stomach gurgled loudly.

"I heard that." Rolling her eyes, she handed Gabrielle a piece of bread. "There's plenty, share it with me."

Grateful for the diversion, the bard eagerly took a bite.

Xena smiled.

"What? Did I drip?"

"No, I just enjoy watching you eat, that's all. You put your whole body into it."

Embarrassed, the bard laughed. "Funny, Ryder said almost the same thing when we had dinner the other night."

Disturbed by the thought, the warrior awkwardly glanced down at her plate. As much as she hated to discuss her friend's relationship with Ryder, she couldn't put it off any longer. She'd promised bard's mother. "So, you've been spending quite a bit of time together?"

The young woman nodded and took another bite.

"I…I guess you must really care a lot about him."

Sensing from the warrior's tone that Xena suspected she and Ryder were more than friends, she stiffened and cursed silently. It was those damned breeches. Releasing a heavy sigh she turned to face her companion. As foolish as the incident made her look, she couldn't allow Xena to think that she and Ryder had had some passionate tryst outside the tavern. She had to tell her the truth…but how much of the truth? Was it time to tell her friend how she truly felt? "Xena, there's something I want to explain." She clasped her hands nervously. "Damn, this is so hard…I--" She stopped and inhaled deeply.

"Gabrielle, I know this is none of my business and I wouldn't be asking, but your mother--"

"--What about her?"

"When I arrived last night, she asked me to talk to you about Ryder."

"I can't believe this!" Gabrielle exclaimed her irritation clear.

"She's worried about you."

"She doesn’t need to be. I told her we were just friends."

The warrior's mind flashed to the image of Ryder holding up the bard's breeches. Her friend's denial stabbed at her heart. She had hoped that Gabrielle would tell her the truth; but instead, she persisted in pretending. Xena wasn't sure which hurt more, the bard's involvement with this man or her unwillingness to confide in her. "She seems to think it's more serious than that," the warrior stated flatly.

Gabrielle shook her head angrily. "Why can't she just accept me as I am? She doesn't question Lila's friends…Lila's choices."

"Your mom just wants to understand what's going on. She loves you."

"Yeah, only because she doesn't know the half of it."

Xena paused anxiously. "And what's that?"

The bard wanted so much to tell her…to tell her everything. But not like this.

"Gabrielle, you can talk to me."

The young woman shook her head sadly. How could she explain to the warrior the fear she was struggling with--the fear of losing her…the fear of losing her family? Trying to avoid the warrior's eyes, she spoke. "Look, this isn't your problem. I'm sorry she put you in the middle. I'll talk with her."

Wounded, Xena looked away. "If we're going to talk to this prophet, maybe we should get going."

With volumes of unspoken words between them, they walked down the road in silence.

*****

"Gabrielle." The prophet hugged her warmly.

Returning the embrace, the blonde kissed her lightly on the cheek.

"I love your hair," Asia declared. "It's a good look for you."

Turning to the prophet, she winked. "Thanks, lately I've been in the mood to try new things."

The silver-haired woman cast her a knowing smile. "Well, it seems to be agreeing with you."

As the warrior watched the intimate exchange, she stiffened uncomfortably. It bothered her to see Gabrielle opening up to this woman, especially after having known her for such a short time. Something about Asia made her uneasy and although she couldn't put her finger on it, her instincts told her that the prophet should not be trusted.

The bard spoke up, interrupting her thoughts. "Asia, this is Xena. I believe you've met."

"Yes, briefly." She smiled and held out her hand. "I thought our paths might cross again."

"I'm sure you did," the warrior responded coolly.

Asia awkwardly lowered her arm and met Xena's eyes. "Since you're obviously not here to visit, why don't you tell me what can I do for you."

"I've come to bring you an offer." Pulling out the coin purse, the warrior cast it onto the table.

"I'm listening."

Xena handed her the list of names. "These women say they've been visited by spirits in their dreams. Their men believe that a curse has been put on them. They'd like you to travel back to Amphipolis with me to remove it."

"You don't believe there's a curse though, do you?"

"No, I don't," the warrior replied bluntly. "But clearly someone put that idea in their heads."

"Someone?" Asia smiled. "Come now, don't mince words. It doesn't suit you. You think that I've scammed them."

Gabrielle spoke up quickly. "No, of course n--"

"--Yes, I do," Xena interrupted.

"Then why are you paying me to remove a curse that you don't believe in?"

"The men have asked me to approach you on their behalf. If it were me," she said. "I wouldn't give you the time of day."

"And you expect me to go with you under those conditions?"

The warrior glanced at the coin purse. "It's a lot of dinars. Easy pickings for you."

Looking into her eyes, Asia tossed her the purse. "I suggest you go take this back to them."

"I'd think about it, if I were you," the warrior said as she set the dinars and note on the table.

"Yes, but you aren't me."

Not bothering to respond, Xena opened the door, and left.

Glancing up apologetically, Gabrielle turned and quickly followed.

*****

"Xena, wait!"

Agitated, the warrior stopped abruptly and spun to face her.

The bard raised her hands in frustration. "What was that all about? How can you expect her to come with us after what you said in there?"

Xena shrugged. "She's in it for the money. She'll change her mind--don't worry."

"I don't think so, not after you were so rude to her."

"If that's the case, then so be it." She paused. "I have a bad feeling about her, Gabrielle."

"Well, maybe, for once, your feeling is wrong."

The warrior tensed, her friend's comment hitting her like a slap in the face.

"I want to understand," Gabrielle said, softening her tone. "Tell me why you don't like her."

"I've run into dozens of her kind, not one of them legitimate."

"That doesn't mean she's not."

"I told you. I don't trust her."

"What about me? Do you trust me?"

"You know I do. That doesn't have anything to do with this."

"But it does. This time I'm asking you to trust my instincts." She met the warrior's eyes. "Xena, I like her. She's been a good friend to me."

Hurt and angry, the warrior spoke without thinking. "Like Ryder, a…a man that you've barely known a fortnight is your good friend?"

The venom in the Xena's words shocked her, but she held her ground. "As a matter of fact, yes. And what's wrong with that?"

Ashamed, the warrior lowered her eyes. "Nothing. Listen, Gabrielle, I'm sorry." She pressed her fingers to her temples as her head throbbed painfully.

Concerned, the bard lightly brushed her arm. "Are you okay?"

"I'm just tired. I…I need sleep." Eyes filled with regret, she looked up at the bard. "I'm really sorry about the way I acted. If you want, I'll go back and apologize to her."

"Forget it." Gabrielle gently squeezed her friend's shoulder. "Xena, I'm worried about you."

"I just need some rest, that's all."

"Why don't you go back to the house and try to get some sleep? I've got something I have to take care of, then I'll meet you there."

Nodding, Xena turned and headed down the road. Once the bard was out of sight, she cut up into the woods. Her mind was racing. She needed time alone, time to think. She winced as she recalled the hurt look in Gabrielle's eyes when she'd questioned her new friendships. Why had she spoken so cruelly? Without even thinking, she knew the answer. She'd allowed emotion to rule her…the worst emotion of all: jealousy.

The image of Gabrielle and Ryder together tormented her. She thought back to the moment that the bard had tried to explain their relationship. Why had she interrupted her? She'd known Gabrielle would be angry about her mother's interference, so why had she brought it up? The reason was painfully clear. For one terrifying moment, she was sure that Gabrielle was about to tell her the one thing in the entire world she could not bear to hear.

*****

The bard knocked lightly on Asia's door.

"Come in, Gabrielle."

Embarrassed, the young woman averted her eyes. "I'm sorry about running off."

The prophet smiled. "It's okay. Have a seat."

"Asia, I've been thinking about the women in Amphipolis." She swallowed nervously. "Do you think it's connected in any way to my dreams? Is it possible that I'm causing this in some way?"

"Your aura is strong but not powerful enough to reach over that great a distance." The prophet picked up the list from the table. "Do you know any of these women, the ones being visited by spirits?"

"Most of them I've met at least briefly."

"Well, it's my guess that something ties them together. Can you think of anything they have in common?"

The bard pondered a moment. "Nothing I know of. They each have different occupations, different backgrounds." She paused. "Most are married, but I think a few are still single."

"We're missing something."

"Won't you reconsider traveling with us to Amphipolis to help figure out what's going on there?"

"I think not."

"I'm sorry about Xena," Gabrielle apologized. "She's not usually so brusque. Please, try to understand. She's run into a lot of fakes in her travels and--"

"--You're quick to make excuses for her."

"Xena doesn't need me to defend her actions. More often than not, her instincts are right."

"So you believe that I'm out to cheat these men too?"

"Of course not, but there has to be more to this."

"Because the warrior thinks so?"

"You two got off to a bad start. You got the wrong impression, that's all."

"The wrong impression, huh?" She turned to face the bard. "Then, normally she's not so angry, cold and unfeeling."

"Xena's not any of those things."

"If she's so kind and understanding, then why haven't you been able to tell her how you feel?"

"I'm working on it. In fact, last night I wrote her a letter expressing my feelings." She paused.

"And?"

Gabrielle released a heavy sigh. "I changed my mind."

"I see. Then even you are afraid of her anger."

"No, it has nothing to do with her…it's me. It's my doubts holding me back. I've seen no indication that she feels anything more than friendship toward me. I don't want to put her in the position of having to spare my feelings."

"It's difficult for me to imagine her being concerned about sparing anyone's feelings."

"Xena would never deliberately hurt me. If you knew her the way I do, you'd see how warm and caring she can be."

"I think that I've seen all I need to. You forget that I'm a fairly good judge of character."

"That may be true, but you're wrong about her."

"I doubt that, but in any case, I'm not inclined to share her company all the way to Amphipolis."

"Please. She hasn't been herself since she arrived. I'm worried about her. I've never seen her so pale…so tired. What if there is a connection and she's been affected too?"

"I'm sure she can take care of herself."

"How can you just turn your back without even trying to help?" Gabrielle threw up her hands in frustration. "Please give her another a chance. She's not the kind of person who opens up to strangers. You haven't spent enough time with her to know what she's really like. You aren't seeing the whole picture."

The prophet shook her head doubtfully. "And you are?"

"Yes. I know her," she insisted. "If only you could see her through my--" Gabrielle stopped. "That's it! If I opened my mind to you, I could share my memories of her. Then you'd know. You could see what she's really like."

The prophet shrugged.

"It's possible, isn't it?"

"Yes, but I doubt it would change my opinion."

She met the prophet's eyes beseechingly. "How do you know if you don't try?"

Asia remained quiet.

The bard stretched her hands across the table. "Are you afraid I'll prove you wrong?"

"No."

"Well, then?"

"I should warn you that sharing memories often intensifies them. You may see things that you didn't notice at the time, things you may not want to discover about her. Are you ready for that?"

"Yes, I'm willing to take that chance."

"All right then." Asia said, reaching out. "Let's take a look at the real Xena."

Curling her fingers around the prophet's hand, Gabrielle closed her eyes and began remembering ~~~~~

At first, the bard thought she'd spoken her thoughts aloud. But it was Xena's lips that had moved. Her eyes were riveted to Gabrielle, in a gaze so heated, that the young woman felt it rush across the surface of her skin. Her heart raced as she watched the warrior’s eyes travel the length of her body. In their depths she saw something, something utterly compelling, something she'd never seen before. Her sex pulsed wildly. Naked and aroused, she stepped back in confusion.

~~~~~

The bard gasped. She quickly released the prophet's hands and opened her eyes wide. A shiver of excitement rushed through her. "Did you see?!" she asked breathlessly.

The prophet nodded, understanding immediately that it wasn't Xena's character to which Gabrielle referred but the desire she had seen burning in the depths of the warrior's eyes.

"In the cave, she--she wanted me. I saw it in her eyes." She swallowed hard, lapsing into a brief silence as she absorbed the shock. "How could I not have noticed?" She cast Asia a worried glance. "Did it really happen, or is this the way I wanted it to be?"

"They're your memories, my dear."

Gabrielle closed her eyes, trying to recall the moment. "I remember the powerful sensations I felt. I thought it was the experience. It was all so overwhelming, but it was so real." Her skin flushed at the memory. "How could I have been so blind? How could I have missed the emotion in her eyes?"

"Maybe you weren't ready then."

Gabrielle shook her head. "Maybe not, but I am now."

Watching a knowing smile spread across the prophet's lips, she was struck by a realization. "You aren't surprised by anything you saw in my memories, are you? You knew all along that there was more to Xena than she allowed to show."

Asia smiled softly. "Well, let's just say that now I'm certain of it."

"Then why--"

"--I suspected that to help me see the truth about the warrior, you would open your mind completely. It was my hope that in doing that, you would see what you were afraid to face before."

"Then it's true…Xena does have feelings for me."

"So, it would appear."

"I don't understand. Why didn't you tell me before?"

"Experience has taught me that it's best to allow people to come to terms with things in their own time."

Gabrielle barely heard her. She was lost in her thoughts, lost in the memory of Xena's eyes.

Smiling, Asia waved her hand in front of the young woman's face. "Gabrielle?"

The bard jumped up abruptly and embraced her. "Thank you! Thank you so much!" Pulling back, she squeezed Asia hands and released her. "I've got to go. I've got to find Xena."

*****

-- Chapter 14 --

As the bard walked down the road to her parents' home, her heart felt so light it was as if her feet weren't touching the ground. For the first time, it seemed there was a chance that Xena might want her.

She slowly opened the barn door and peered inside. Xena wasn't there. For the next few candlemarks she anxiously searched from one end of town to the other but had no luck. Frustrated, she headed toward the tavern. She knew she wasn't likely to find Xena there, but it was the one place she hadn't looked.

Crossing her fingers, she took a deep breath and entered. The room was empty. Disappointment washed over her.

Rose greeted her. "Gabrielle, what can I get you?"

"Hi, Rose." Weary from her search, she took a seat. "A cup of tea sounds nice."

The redhead returned with two steaming mugs. "Mind if I join you?"

"Not at all," she smiled, pulling out the chair beside her.

Handing the bard her tea, she sat down. "So, what have you been up to?"

"I'm looking for Xena. You haven't seen her, have you?"

"Sorry, I haven't seen much of anyone today. It's been really slow." She shrugged. "I guess people are trying to get their work done before the rain hits."

The bard glanced over toward the corner table. "Ryder hasn't been in either, huh?"

"No, but I doubt it's work keeping him away," Rose commented wryly. "He's not one to let anything interfere with a good time."

"Maybe he just likes it here," Gabrielle defended.

"I'm sure." The barmaid winked. "It is a good place for him to pick up women."

"I don't know…I think there's more to it than that. Maybe he--"

Rose cut her off. "Don't let him get to you, too."

"What do you mean?"

"It's just that Ryder has a way of drawing women to him. I think he brings out their maternal instincts. He's like some stray dog they feel compelled to take care of. Then, before they know it, he's dumping them and moving on to someone else." She set her mug down. "Believe me, I've seen a lot of women taken in by his charm."

"But not you."

"No." She took a sip of her tea and smiled. "I learned the difference between a stray and a wolf a long time ago."

"So you were together before?"

Rose nodded. "When I was just a girl." She wiped her hands nervously on her apron. "He was my first."

"Things didn't work out?"

The redhead shook her head and glanced away. "I walked in on him with someone." She looked up and shrugged. "That was the end of it for me."

"Is that why you left town?"

Rose paused, gazing thoughtfully into her cup before answering. "No, it wasn't my decision to leave. My father sent me to live with my uncle."

"And that's where you met your husband?"

"Um-hmm." She smiled softly. "He was a very kind man, although much older than I was. Unfortunately, he died after my second child was born."

"I'm sorry."

Rose nodded. "It was difficult at first, but we managed. Then last winter, when my father passed on, I decided to come back with my girls and run the tavern."

"You've done a good job raising them alone. They're great kids."

The redhead rolled her eyes playfully. "Yeah, on their good days."

"I saw Ryder at the lake with them the other day. They seem to get along really well."

"Yes, he's always had a way with kids. Maybe it's because he's never really grown up himself."

"I don't know," the bard disagreed. "I think it's his gentle heart they respond to, especially Tana."

"She's a wild one, that kid. She and Ryder are two of a kind."

Gabrielle smiled. "I noticed she's pretty high-spirited, a lot more outgoing than Emma."

"Yeah, funny how two siblings can be so opposite."

The bard thought back to her interactions with Emma, the excitement in her eyes…the gentleness of her smile. Suddenly, a startling notion occurred to her. She glanced up at Rose. "It's true, they don't even look much alike."

Staring into her tea, the redhead took another sip. "I guess Tana looks more like me, where as Emma with her dark hair takes more after her--her father."

Gabrielle nodded casually as she watched the barmaid. "It's a good combination."

"Yes." Pushing her chair back, Rose picked up her empty mug with a trembling hand. "Well, I guess I should get back to work."

"Of course." Gabrielle got up from her seat. "Thanks for the tea."

"Any time."

"Hey, if you happen to see Xena, will you tell her that I'm looking for her?"

"Sure, will you be home?"

The bard paused a moment before answering. "Yeah, I've just got one stop to make first."

*****

Xena stood at the top of the ridge and looked down sadly at the quiet little village. There was no way she could give the bard the kind of life she had here. It simply wasn't in her.

Lost in her thoughts, she started walking towards the bard's house. Gabrielle was right; she had to get some sleep. Maybe a real bed was just what she needed.

She stepped up to the front door and knocked. To her good fortune, it appeared that no one was home. Going back to her friend's room, she closed the door and sat down on the bed. Wearily, she began removing her armor. As she unhooked her breastplate, she noticed a small tear in the seam of her leathers.

"Damn," she whispered under her breath. Rising to her feet, she went to the dresser and opened the top drawer, looking for Gabrielle's needle and thread. Not finding them, she continued her search. Finally, she located them in the bottom drawer and began fixing the tear.

Xena's hands trembled as she flipped the letter over. There was nothing more. The note hadn't even been dated. In fact, it contained precious little to help her figure out for whom it was intended.

Folding the letter with the greatest of care, she slipped it into the top of her boot and headed out the door, sleep forgotten.

*****

Seeing her friend alongside the barn, Gabrielle called out to him. "Hard at work, I see."

Ryder spun around, pitchfork in hand. "Gab! What brings you to this side of town?"

"I wanted to talk to you. Have you got a minute?"

"Sure." He leaned the pitchfork against the wall and wiped his brow. "Having trouble with the letter?"

"No, I abandoned that idea. I've decided to talk to her face-to-face instead."

"Wow, what brought that on?"

"A lot of things, but I'm not here to talk about me." She motioned to the bench. "Mind if I sit down?"

"No, in fact I'll join you." He looked at her curiously. "So, what's up?"

"I stopped by the tavern, looking for Xena, and ended up speaking with Rose."

At the mention of the redhead's name, he turned, giving her his complete attention.

"While we were talking, something occurred to me." She paused, trying to find the right words.

"Well?" he blurted anxiously. "Are you going to share or just leave me in suspense?"

She inhaled deeply. Knowing no easy way to reveal her suspicions, she decided on the direct approach. "Ryder, is there a chance that Rose's father sent her away all those years ago because she was pregnant?"

The implication of the bard's words stunned him.

She placed her hand on his. "I think it's possible that Emma is your daughter."

Ryder stood up and ran his hands nervously through his hair. "I--I don't understand. Why wouldn't Rose tell me?"

"You said she had seen you with another girl. Maybe she thought it was over between you."

"What it must have been like for her!" He paced anxiously back and forth, then glanced sadly at the bard. "She was barely fourteen summers."

"I know. She's a very courageous woman. It must have been very difficult."

He threw his hands in the air. "Gods, I've wasted thirteen years, acting like an idiot." Tears began to well in his eyes. "I should have been there for her." He dropped heavily to the bench.

The bard put her arm around him, trying to comfort him. "You still can be," she encouraged.

Guilt-ridden, he looked away.

She gently laid her hand on his shoulder. "Ryder, I think maybe it's time we both stopped hiding and pretending that we're something we're not. Maybe it's time we followed our hearts."

He fell into her arms, holding her tightly. "How am I ever going to make this right?"

Hearing the desperation in his voice, she pulled back and met his eyes. "We'll think of something…I promise."

*****

Xena stopped dead in her tracks. Just down the road, Gabrielle and Ryder were walking, arm-in-arm. Although she was too far away to hear their words, even from a distance the affection in the bard's embrace was clear. She watched sadly as he lifted the young woman into the air and happily twirled her around.

Turning abruptly, she hurried across the square to get Argo. There was no longer any doubt in her mind for whom the letter had been intended.

*****

Taking the back road, Xena quickly made her way out of town. As she rounded the curve, a voice called to her.

"What's this? Leaving without me?" the prophet asked.

Squaring her shoulders, Xena turned to face her. "Just as perceptive as ever, I see."

Asia smiled. "Well, to be honest, you're really not that difficult to read."

Losing patience, the warrior pulled Argo's reins and began walking away. "Why don't you go peddle it someplace else?"

"You won't escape your pain by running from her."

The prophet's words stopped Xena in her tracks.

Asia continued. "You might be able to bury your feelings when you're awake. But when you sleep…that is, if you sleep--"

Xena spun to confront her. "Just how are you involved in this?!"

"I'm not the cause of your sleeping problems, if that's what you're asking."

The warrior took a threatening step forward. "I think it's time we had a little chat." Narrowing her eyes, she grabbed the front of the prophet's cloak. "You'd better tell me what you know…now!"

"If I were you," Asia replied mildly, "I'd be careful what I asked for."

Xena's jaw tensed angrily as she roughly pulled the woman toward her. "Tell me!"

Unruffled, the prophet calmly laid her hand over the warrior's tightly clenched fist.

Reeling from the contact, Xena stiffened as myriad images raced through her mind. She staggered back, light-headed from the onslaught.

Asia advanced with her, maintaining her grip. "And what would you like to hear first?" she asked, her eyes no longer gray but a brilliant sapphire. "Perhaps I should start with the identity of the spirit visiting the women of Amphipolis."

Instantly, the warrior's grip on the prophet's cloak went slack, but Asia held on to her firmly.

"Should I tell you why all the women who have been visited are blonde?"

The faces of the townswomen flashed before her. Awash with dizziness, Xena tore away. Pressing her palms to her temples, she tried desperately to erase the vision.

"Come now…a bright woman like you…. If you try really hard, I think you can figure it out."

The images of each of them loomed in her mind…young…petite…blonde…characteristics they each shared with Gabrielle. Her mind reeled. All along, it had been Xena, reaching out in her sleep…searching for the bard. "Stop!"

Asia stepped back, and slowly the images began to fade. The warrior leaned against Argo to steady herself.

The prophet's voice softened. "It's torturous to want someone so badly…someone you think can never be yours. I understand what you're feeling better than you know."

Badly shaken, Xena awkwardly mounted her horse.

Asia took hold of Argo's bridle. "You'll find no peace without her."

The powerful truth in the prophet's words pierced the warrior's heart. She looked up sadly. "It's too late. There's nothing to be done."

"So you intend to leave her to the young gigolo?"

"Gabrielle knows what she wants."

"Yes, she does and she's willing to give up a lot to have it. She has great courage. You could learn a lot from her."

Xena urged her mare forward, but Argo stood fixed.

Patting the horse lightly, Asia continued to address the warrior. "Tell me, what if you're right about this young man's character? What if he is all wrong for her?"

"It's not my place to interfere."

"Not even as her friend?"

"It's best for her if I go."

"You mean it's best for you. If it was her welfare you were concerned with, you would at least stay to warn her."

The prophet's comment hit a nerve. Xena bristled. "What's your interest in this? Why don't you want her with Ryder?"

"It's simple, really. I happen to be quite fond of your bard." She smiled and stepped back to give the warrior free passage. Turning, the prophet slowly walked away.

Haunted by her words, Xena remained long after Asia had disappeared from sight. Although she didn't trust her, the warrior knew that at least one thing the woman had said was true. Running wasn't the answer. She couldn't leave without at least trying to set things right for her friend.

Suddenly, an idea came to her. Maybe there was something she could do. Pulling hard on Argo's reins, she quickly headed for the tavern. If Ryder was the one Gabrielle truly wanted, Xena intended to see that she got him…as a changed man.

*****

As the bard entered the barn, she froze in her tracks. Xena's belongings were gone. She'd taken Argo and left.

Leaning heavily against the door, Gabrielle tried to calm her racing heart. Maybe the warrior had needed time alone…time to rest. Quickly exiting the barn, she bent to examine the tracks. It was too dark to read them accurately. She'd have to wait until daybreak.

A shiver trailed down her spine as thunder rumbled in the distance.

Reluctantly walking to the house, she silently prayed Xena was all right.

*****

The warrior entered the tavern and quickly glanced around. True to form, Ryder sat at his usual table, happily conversing with some young woman, a brunette this time. Taking a deep breath, she quickly approached him.

He looked up in surprise. "Xena, What are you doing here? Gab's--"

She stood over him menacingly, abruptly cutting him off. "It's you I came to see. I think we need to have a little talk."

Put off by her intimidating manner, he looked past her to his female companion. "I'm afraid I'm a little busy right now. Anyway, I think it's Gabrielle you shou--"

Digging her fingers into his shoulder, she jerked him to his feet. "I'm sorry if it sounded like I was asking." She looked to his latest conquest, then back to him. "You’re quite a busy guy: a dark-haired woman yesterday afternoon, a redhead last night, Gabrielle earlier, and now a brunette.

Ryder's companion cast him an agitated glance and got to her feet. "I must have been crazy to think you were serious about working things out."

"Wait, I--"

"Save it for the others!" she snapped. "I'll walk myself home."

Irritated, he turned to Xena and smoothed out his wrinkled shirt. "That's just great," he huffed. "Thanks a lot."

The warrior glared at him. "How can you do this?"

"Truthfully, it's not easy, but I almost had her convinced. If you hadn't interrupted us I--"

She thrust her hand out, pushing him hard against the wall. "You little bastard."

He surprised her by smiling. "Generally people don't pick up on that until they've known me much longer. Gab was right about your being quick."

"Oh, you're a real charmer," she replied, her teeth clenched in anger. "If she didn't love you so much, I'd--"

"What are you talking about? We're just friends."

Xena exhaled in frustration and pulled the bard's note from her boot. "Read it!" she commanded.

His eyes ran quickly down the page. "So? What do you want me to do about it?"

Xena shook her head angrily. "She poured out her heart to you."

"What makes you think she wrote it for me? I don't see my name on it."

"I saw her earlier…in your arms."

Finally understanding the warrior's confusion, he smiled. "Jealous, are we?"

"Watch it!" she hissed, barely able to restrain her temper.

"Are all warrior's as dense as you?"

What little remained of Xena's reserve snapped. Her eyes flashed dangerously as her hands gripped his throat. "I'm losing my patience," she growled.

Realizing the seriousness of his situation, he struggled to speak. "You've got it wrong. The letter isn't for me. She wrote it to you."

Stunned by his words, Xena released him.

"It's you she's in love with."

"How do you know that?" she demanded.

"How else? She told me."

Xena's heart raced. "If you're lying, I--"

"--Look, I may enjoy living on the edge, but I'm no fool."

The warrior's hands trembled visibly as the full impact of his comment washed over her.

He continued to explain. "Gabrielle couldn't get up the courage to tell you in person, so I suggested that she write you a letter."

Xena's head was reeling. "But earlier tonight…you and she--"

"--I told you. We're just friends. She was helping me get my life straightened out. That's--"

"--Where is she now?" the warrior interrupted.

"I don't know. She left to look for you. Maybe she's at home."

Without a word, Xena turned and rushed out of the tavern.

*****

As he watched the door slam closed, Ryder couldn't help smiling.

"You look pretty cheerful for a man who nearly got himself killed," Rose commented.

"Yeah. Looks like Gabrielle's evening is beginning to look up." Leaning back in his seat, he took a sip of his tea and laughed. "Damn, I'm not even this happy when I'm about to get laid."

The redhead smiled. "That was a nice thing you did."

"Don't look so surprised," he said, gingerly rubbing his bruised neck.

Her brow furrowed. "That looks sore. You need a cool cloth?"

"Nah." He waved her off and took another sip of his tea.

"Aren't you getting a little too old for these confrontations?"

"As a matter of fact, I've been slowing down lately," he admitted.

"Could'a fooled me," she retorted. "A blonde, a brunette and a redhead in the course of two days, and that's all I know about."

"Ah, come on! We both know Gab's just a friend and the brunette's my sister."

"And the redhead?"

"The truth is…you're the only woman that interests me."

She laughed nervously. "Save it for someone that doesn't know you so well."

"You don't think I have it in me to settle down, do you?"

She shook her head doubtfully "You? Never."

"Care to put your money where your mouth is?"

"Don't you ever learn?" she cautioned. "When was the last time you won a bet with me?"

"What's the matter? Afraid you don't know me as well as you think?"

"Oh, I know you…all too well."

"All right, then," he said confidently. "I'll bet you that I can go a full moon without a woman. In fact, I won't even go out on a date."

She huffed sarcastically. "You could sooner go a whole moon without food or drink."

"Then why not take the bet?"

Rose considered it for a moment. "How would I be able to tell that you hadn't…?"

He smiled. "You'll have to take me at my word."

"I don't think so," she replied evenly.

"Come on. I may be a philanderer, but I've never been a liar."

"What's the wager?"

"I think we should make it worthwhile, don't you? How about five days' pay?"

"No way! You know I can't gamble for that kind of money. I have the girls to support."

"Okay, you're right." He paused, pretending to mull over an alternative. "How about I put up five days pay against one date with you?"

"Not on your life!"

"Why not?"

"You mean apart from my complete distaste for your lack of character and the wasteful life you've chosen?" She began to turn away.

As much as her comment stung, he hung in. "Afraid I might just be able to do it, huh?"

She laughed cynically. "Not hardly."

"I think you're afraid you just might enjoy a date with me."

"No danger there." Feeling suddenly anxious, she reached to pick up a dirty glass. Beneath her confident exterior, she felt her pulse quicken at the thought of being Ryder's first date after going an entire moon without companionship.

"If you don't think I can do it, then what do you have to lose?" he challenged.

Thinking how badly she needed the extra dinars, she reluctantly reconsidered. "Five days' pay?" she confirmed, a hint of interest in her voice.

"Yep, against just one date." He smiled as he watched her struggle with the temptation.

"Just one date…no sex?"

He winked. "I'll leave that up to you." Grinning, he held out his hand to seal the wager.

She shook it firmly.

*****

With every step Xena took, she silently prayed Ryder had told her the truth. Stopping before she turned the corner to the bard's house, she tried to calm her racing heart. She hadn't a clue what she was going to say. She only knew that she had to see Gabrielle…had to be near her.

As she approached the small dwelling, her heart sank. It was completely dark inside. For an instant, she contemplated entering a window, but the last thing she wanted was to wake the family and cause a scene. Releasing a heavy sigh, she led Argo to the barn. It was maddening to think that she had to wait until morning to resolve things.

After quickly getting her mare settled, she rolled out her bedding. Releasing a frustrated groan, she sat down. Ryder's words echoed in her mind. Why hadn't she seen it? Reaching down, she removed the bard's letter from her boot and carefully unfolded the parchment. This time as she read, she did so with new eyes.

She thought back to the images that she'd seen when Asia clutched her hand. They hadn't all been of the village women. There had been other dreams too, dreams not of her making. Her skin flushed as she realized that the smoke-and-fire dreams had to have come from the bard's fertile imagination. Somehow, Gabrielle had reached out to her in her sleep and drawn her in.

An idea quickly formed in her mind. If the bard had been able to do it, then maybe….

A soft drumming sound tugged at her, pulling her from her thoughts. It was storming. She looked up at the roof and smiled.

"Okay, Gabrielle. Let's see if you still want to play in the rain." Allowing her body to relax, she closed her eyes and concentrated.