Part 5

Sweat poured into incredibly blue eyes as a tall bronzed goddess drilled unmercifully with her sword. Swift flowing movements enhanced the play of solid muscle under soft skin. Candace sat in awe of the sight. She almost didn't hear the cry of a man's voice calling the name of her lover.

"XENA! CANDACE!" Toris tried his best to catch his breath. He had sprinted half a league to find the women.

Candace stood from her position on a fallen tree. "Whoa! Tor, hang on there champ." She reached out to steady him.

"They...wa....Am......Hang on." He bent over to try and replace the air in his lungs.

Candace sent a very concerned look at her intended. Xena had wiped off her face and run to the side of her brother. The look between the two spoke volumes.

"What is Tor? Is Mother OK?"

"Yeah. It's Amazons. They.... need you... guys. Five.. of them ....came to get you."

"This is not good." Candace had just made the understatement of the season.

The three ran back to the inn as fast as was possible. Xena arrived ahead of the group. She was met by the Captain of the Queens' guard, Solari, and four other warriors.

"Where is Candace?" Solari didn't even recognize The Warrior Princess with even so much as a how do you do.

"She's right behind me. Sol, what's going on?"

"There's trouble, Xena. Big trouble. Ephiny sent me to get Candace."

"Why?" Not that she didn't think the small blonde was an important part of the Amazon nation, but there were many more warriors from many tribes that could aid the nation.

"Because I'm an expert at negotiations." Candace had heard the conversation on the way to the group.

"You're what?"

"You heard me, Xena."

"Yeah, but. Why didn't I know this?"

"I can't answer that. Xe, come here." She led the dark haired woman away form the rest of the group.

"Candace, what in Tartarus is going on?"

"You know as much as I do."

"That's not what I meant. What makes YOU an expert at negotiations and why would Ephiny want you?"

"You're marrying me, aren't you?"

"Yeah. But I don't understand what that........Kayla."

"Right. I did that. You need to have faith that I can do this or at least I have to try."

The tall warrior took a deep breath she wanted to fight this but knew that it would be to no avail. "You know, my mother gave me some good advice a few days ago and I'm going to take it. If you say you can, I believe you." *Why should this be any different.*

"Thank you. You must know that it is important to me that I have your support. I need you, Xena. Simple as that."

"I need you as well, Little One." Xena bent for a quick kiss before they turned back to Solari and her companions.

Candace spoke with authority and determination, "What is going on, Solari?"

"It's the water rights issue. The villages up stream have been taken over by a new government. The water that is to come on to Amazon land has been diverted. When our field workers went to find the cause, they were attacked. Three of them were killed and several badly wounded. If the water doesn't come soon it will mean lost crops on the north end of the valley."

"Can we build water ways from the reservoir to the west?" Candace wanted all of the facts before she went through any meetings. She realized that it may not do any good to try to negotiate. If the water was already cut off and the governing body knew of the need of their neighbors, they may not care enough to work together.

"We can, but we have a right to all the water available. Besides, building irrigation ditches won't help the crops in the field now. We would suffer a shortage of food in the winter season."

"Has Ephiny tried to reason with these people?"

"Yes. That's why she sent for you. You're our last hope before battle. We have bolstered the troops on the borders, but there are many more of them than there are of us."

This was Xena's territory now. "This isn't about water. This is about conquest. Who is the leader of the new government."

"I think his name is Pracmore. Have you heard of him?"

"Sounds familiar. It's like he was associated with someone I know." Xena thought back to some of the many warlords and soldiers she had known. "Draco. That rat. Pracmore worked for Draco." Xena had to tell her lover what she felt, "Candace, I love you and I have all the faith in the world in your abilities, but this is a seige. There is no amount of talk that is going to win this guy. If you go to him I'm afraid he will try to kill you. And to be honest my love, I couldn't handle that. Please think about it."

Candace knew her intended's heart was in the right place but she couldn't shirk her responsibilities. She was still the Queen of the Nation, whether these people knew it or not. Ephiny did and that's was all she needed. "Xena. I have to try just one time. I'll be careful. I promise."

"I knew you were going to say that. Do this for me. Set the meeting up far enough into Amazon land that their troops aren't readily available. If they are going to come, it'll take them some time. That way you'll be able to escape."

Candace tilted her head and looked at Xena. The concern on her face was abundant, but the blonde couldn't let that get in the way of her duties as an Amazon. "Xena, love, I have no intentions of escaping. If battle is to be waged, I will stand with my sisters in the midst of it."

"Of course. What I meant was, if he has an army waiting and you are out numbered, regroup and get out of there."

"Wait! This all sounds like you're not planning on being there."

"Oh, I'll be there. I just have a little errand I have to run first. You get packed and go with Solari. I'll meet you in Aborea."

"But, Xena...."

"It will be O.K. Come on let's get going."

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

Two lovers stood in front of the door to their haven at a mother's inn. They gazed deeply into each other and let the love they felt wash over them. Being separated was not the most ideal situation, especially considering the circumstances. There were bound to be battles and death. The thought that they could lose each other emphasized the bond that they knew was between them.

"Candace, please be wise in this. If it looks bad get out of there and wait for your back up. Do me a favor though, if you can, stall. Put off the talks for a day or two or ask for a pause during the meetings, anything. It will give me time to get to the front lines if a battle ensues."

"What do you have planned?"

"I don't have a real plan, I just need to call in a few debts."

"I don't like this. It feels wrong, Xe."

"War never feels good my love. Solari has your back and she is the best next to me or Senar. I'm sure the Queen's Champion is having a fit over this one. Anyway, you'll be safe on the way there, of that I am sure."

"Love?"

"Yeah?"

"I'm a warrior, remember? I am capable of taking care of myself. Not that I'm not pleased to have an escort, just stop worrying. Please, be careful yourself. I just got you, I don't want to lose you."

"Same here. I love you. Swear to the Gods I do." Fervent eyes penetrated into the blonde's soul and touched her heart.

Candace reached a small hand to cup the face of her tender hearted love. No one but her and Gabrielle knew this side of the mighty warrior and for that she felt privileged.

"I love you back, Warrior. Artemis watch over you." She leaned to her soulmate for a kiss that was given and returned in earnest.

"Let's go." Xena nodded and they turned to face their destiny.

They walked into the bright sunlight followed by a warrior's mother and brother.

Cyrene had never gotten used to the idea of her daughter waging war, and this was no exception. She decided that this time was the worst of all. Xena had found a modicum of peace and had stepped away from the many battles that seemed to follow her around. On top of this, she had found a woman that loved her and that she loved. Well, she had found Gabrielle again, to lose either one of them would kill whoever was left alone, including a very concerned mother. She did not like this, but defense of one's home was the most honorable justification for war.

Xena turned to her mother. "Mother, take care of yourself and thanks for everything. I mean it."

Cyrene looked at her daughter with pride and fear in her eyes. The woman that stood before her now she was proud to know. Quite a change from just a few years back when she couldn't stand the thought, much less the sight, of the ex-warlord. Her heart went out to her flesh and blood.

"May the Gods watch over you. I love you and I am very proud to call you daughter."

The two women embraced knowing that much was being said with the contact. Their eyes locked and they nodded in understanding. Xena turned to her brother and his wife.

"Bye, Tor. Take care of this precious one, ya got that?" She nodded at his wife.

"I will, Xe. You have my word on that. Be safe and take care of THAT precious one as well."

"As best as she will allow my brother. Goodbye, Amira. Keep him in line for me will you?"

"No problem there, Xena. We will see you soon."

"I pray you are right."

She gathered her brother into a fierce embrace. "You're a good man Toris. I love you!"

"I love you as well." Tears welled up in his eyes and he stepped back to rejoin his wife. Xena patted him on his cheek.

"No tears. I'll see you at my union."

"Barring unforseen trouble, we will be there. Well, I will at any rate."

"Right. Goodbye." She turned and watched the exchange between her mother and her intended. It was a sweet and precious sight. She couldn't hear the words, but the emotion was transparent.

Cyrene held the small blonde around the waist and pulled her close. Forehead to forehead she spoke, "Candace, sweet child, please be safe. We can't lose you again."

Candace pulled back and put an arm around her future in-law. They walked slowly toward Bard, "Cyrene, I thank you for accepting me with such an unconditional love. I know now why Gabrielle holds you in such high esteem. She has a great respect for you, you know? You are who she would like to take after when she grows up." Both women smiled at the comment, "I love you as well. Your heart is so pure and kind. I promise I will care for her. You needn't worry."

"I am not the least bit worried about her, little one. She is in very good hands I suspect. Make sure she takes care of you"

Candace mounted up and looked down at the older woman, "She takes better care of me than I deserve sometimes. I'm in the very best hands. I will see you at our wedding, Cyrene. In the mean time, be well and may the Gods watch over you."

"Goodbye, sweet child."

"Goodbye, Mother." Candace smiled and waved at Toris and Amira. "Take care you two. We will see you at the wedding."

"Bye, Candace. Take care."

Candace turned and found her lover holding the reigns of her steed. The look in those blue eyes spoke the volumes of emotion that were trapped in her heart. She couldn't speak the words.

"I know my love. If anything happens to me, come back here. Be with your family and heal with them. They love you almost as much as I do."

A single tear rolled down an impossibly high cheekbone. "I can't lose you, Candace. I can't."

"You lived before. You will again. Trust the love that surrounds you." Candace lifted her head and looked around trying to gather her thoughts. She eyes finally returned to Xena's. "Warrior, come home to me in one piece. I know that I will certainly not live if you are not here."

"Take your own advice, Little One. If anything happens to me, come here. They love you almost as much as I. I'll see you in a few days."

"Right. Goodbye, Xena. I love you."

"I love you back." She whacked Bard on the hind end and she took off.

Xena watched as long as the party of Amazons was in sight. As soon as they were gone she mounted up and rode off in the opposite direction.

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

Candace stood to her feet trying desperately to maintain any sliver of composure she might have remaining after the discussion with the evil entity that sat across the table from her.

She spoke urgently, "I know that you feel all of the water that flows onto your lands is your's to do with as you please and perhaps you are right, but certainly you can see the need of your neighbors." He had no such rights but if he felt that she thought it was so, there might room to negotiate. "You hold all the power here, what can we do to work this to a favorable outcome for both parties?"

"You have nothing I want, Amazon," He spat the word, "unless......."

"Unless what?" It seemed that now they were getting somewhere.

"You can turn over to me the Warrior Princess."

"I beg your pardon?" That was not what she was expecting.

"You heard me. I want Xena."

"What makes you think we can deliver......what did you say her name was?"

"Xeeeena." He drew the name out as if it burned on his tongue.

"Yes, strange name by the way, Xena. Why do you want this person?"

"She stole from me."

"Really. What could you possibly have that she would want?" Her ire was barely concealed beneath a smiling exterior.

"Many years ago she prevented Draco from taking a village, Potatreea or Potofdeardung...."

"Potedia."

"Whatever. Draco had given me those villagers. I did all the footwork and planning for the raid. They were to be mine to sell. I could have gotten high price for them, but she took them from me. Now I want her to 'repay' for it."

"Let me see if understand this. You stopped the water from running in the Amazon lands to get back at a woman that supposedly stopped you from making slaves out of a bunch of peasants years ago. Is that right?"

"Yeah, that sums it up."

"This is a little after the fact, don't you think?"

"A man who seeks revenge before many years has acted early."

"Right. Again I ask, what makes you think we can give you this woman?"

"I know that she is in the village and has been for going on four moons now."

"I see. How did you come by this faulty information?"

"I don't believe it is faulty. I have inside sources that have shared with me in detail of all of her activities."

Ephiny flew to her feet. She was no longer in the mood to hold her temper. "NO AMAZON WOULD BETRAY HER OWN!" She seethed at the very notion that this man suggested.

"Well, Queenie, that's where you are wrong. You have one pissed off little Amazon on your hands and she gave me everything I need to force this. Turn over the Princess or you die of thirst."

"We don't have her. At least, she is not in the compound right now." Candace decided that to continue playing stupid Amazon wasn't going to endear them to this psycho. If they played nice maybe he would at least consider not killing them right away.

"So you do know where she is?"

"She went to visit her family in Amphipolis over a half cycle ago. She won't be back for two or three days." You want stall Xena, this is the best you get. Let's hope he goes for it* *And for goodness sake, she better get here.*

"Very well, three days and then.....well let's just say it isn't a pretty thought."

"I thought you were going to make us die of thirst." *This is not good.* *No, this is very not good.*

"I changed my mind."

"I'll see that she gets your message."

"You do that." He flicked his hand at them in a dismissing fashion.

They left the tent shaking their heads. Senar started to speak, but Candace put up a hand and shook her head. "Not now. Let's get out of here first. Senar take Mishre and take the back route to the village. I have a feeling that our good friend in there is hiding his true intent." She looked to Ephiny for approval. The queen nodded and she continued with her plan. Using her hands she told the tall warrior exactly what she meant without the use of words. <Check for anything out of the ordinary. Look for troops out of place or strategically placed. Make note and bring it to the council. See you soon.> Senar nodded her understanding and motioned to Mishre to follow.

When Candace, Ephiny and the remaining Royal Guard were well away from Camp Pracmore they spoke about the obvious.

"How could she do this?" Ephiny felt the betrayal as if it were directed at her. This was personal.

"Eph, I don't know. She must realize that she will suffer the consequences."

"The consequence for being a traitor to the nation is death." Ephiny tightened her jaw with solid resolve.

"I'm sure she didn't think Pracmore would give her away. My guess is she has no idea we are aware of her treason. I can not believe that her hatred for Xena is enough to drive her to such treachery. This had to have taken quite a bit of planning on her part. Has she left the compound any time that you recall?"

"Now that you mention it, she went on a hunting expedition maybe two moons ago and broke off from the main group. She said she wanted to hunt higher up in the terrain. If I recall correctly, Sherina went with her but returned to the party two days later, one day in one day out, saying they had gotten separated. She reported that she didn't understand how it happened. One minute Kayla was there the next she was gone. Half a day into the search for her Kayla came strolling up to them wondering what they were doing. As if she didn't know."

"Would two days give her enough time to pull off something like this?" The question was rhetorical but Ephiny answered it anyway.

"With a good horse and contact with the right people and one can do just about anything."

"True. Alright, here's the plan. We will not indicate to her that we know anything above what Pracmore told us. If my guess is good, she'll give away valuable information that will give us an advantage. Make sure you have a watch posted on her, not obvious. We don't want her figuring us out just yet. We need to tell Senar and Mishre when they return to keep it under wraps. All this cloak and dagger stuff is so weird to have to deal with here."

"Cloak and dagger?"

"Sneaking around, spying, keeping things hidden. You know, the 'Kayla situation'. Man! Is Xe gonna be one hacked off warrior or what! I hope she doesn't decide to take out after Kayla on her own. I think she would do much worse things to her than the Amazons. This is a hanging thing, right?"

"It's up to me. Hanging, beheading, death by fire, drawn and quartered, whatever." She said it so matter-of-factly that Candace shivered.

"Don't let me EVER tick you off, K.?"

"Never commit treason and you will have no need to worry."

"It's not in my genes."

"What have your pants to do with it?"

"That's.... nevermind." Candace laughed and the party rode on.

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~>

The three day limit had passed since the meeting, if one could call it that, with Pracmore. From Senar's intelligence report, many strategic positions were occupied by his troops. This would all go badly if Pracmore move on them without warning. That is where they were depending on Kayla.

"CANDACE!" Mishre was running as fast as her long Amazon legs would propel her.

The blonde looked up from the map she and the troop commaders, that were not in the field, were studying. "Senar." She nodded at the large blonde. "Jules, we'll be right back." Julisa nodded at her and looked questioningly at Candace but decided to query her authority at a later date.

The two women stepped out of the tent to meet Solari's second in command.

"Mishre, is she going?"

"Yep, just left on horse back heading west."

"Senar go. NOW!" The Champion nodded her determination and spun on her heel. "Mishre, get word to the commanders to implement 'plan Kayla'. They will know what that means. Go quickly."

Not questioning the order, she did as the small blonde directed. Candace took a deep breath and went back to the tent to make the announcement of imminent war. Today was a good day as any to kick butt. Upon entry to the tent she looked gravely at her queen and nodded in the affirmative.

Ephiny stood to her feet and gazed at each of her commanders. " This is war. Remember to follow the plan that Candace and Senar laid out. It is built on solid intelligence. Artemis be with us this day. Amazons, mount up."

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

The lieutenant entered the tent apprehensively. Pounding his fist to his chest he saluted his leader. "Sir. The Amazons are shifting positions."

"Follow them."

"We can't. They have surrounded our troops. They seemed to know when we were going to move out."

Pracmore flew to his feet. "How can that be? How did they know? Never mind! Order all the troops to pull out and concentrate to the north. When we break through the line split and flank. There aren't enough of them to hold us for long. Go!" The lieutenant saluted and went to his duty. "Where is that Amazon bitch? She has double-crossed us! You! Find her!"

The man bowed and saluted. Parting the tent flaps hastily, he went in search of the woman that could no longer call herself Amazon. She wasn't far from the center of the camp when he grabbed her by the hair from behind. Yanking her ear to his mouth, he spat, "Pracmore wants to see you. Now!"

"Ahh. Frickin let go of my hair you Son of a Bacchai!" He pushed her out in front of him and released her locks. She glared back at him. "What in Tartarus was that for?"

He pushed her again causing her to stumble. "You'll find out, pig."

"PIG! I'll cut your...." Her threat was cut short by another shove that caused her to fall. Jumping to her feet, she faced the man with wrath in her veins. Pulling her sword she pointed it at him. "Touch me again and I'll cut your balls off."

He snickered at her. *Who did she think she was? Xena?* "Right. Whatever. Just go."

She re-sheathed her sword and started to walk. The man really had no idea who he was dealing with. *I should have taught him a lesson he would not soon forget. What's up here anyway?*

She entered beneath the flap and traversed to the dark recesses of the warlord's tent.

"Well, well, well. Kayla. Would you care to tell me how those Amazon friends of yours knew our secreted positions? Do we tend to run off at the mouth?"

"Two things asshole, those people are not my friends and running off at the mouth is not in my nature. Your men are so incredibly stupid that they gave themselves away no doubt and you underestimate the skills of the nation you are up against."

"You stand up in pride for those you would betray. Amusing. How good they are won't matter against sheer numbers."

"You said there would be no war! You wanted Xena and I offered to deliver her to you. Your impatience will get your men killed and Amazons will die needlessly. She will be here. Her little toy is here. Just wait."

"I can wait no longer. They have moved on my men and for that they will pay. I'm sorry about your friends but that is the life of a....traitor."

"You suck."

"Thank you, now get out of my camp."

Kayla left behind the stench of Pracmore's camp with a new enlightenment. She could never go home again but that didn't mean she couldn't exact revenge. Yes, she would see to it that Xena suffered.

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

Xena was nearing the crest of the Ridge of Melosa when she heard the sounds of battle. She rode hard to the battle, troops of Amazons trailing behind her. They were not Greek, nor were they under the rule of Ephiny, but they were sisters and they always took care of family.

Pracmore's men had begun to break through just as the thunder of approaching hooves met their hearing. The warlord was trying to sound retreat but there was nowhere for them to go. So they fought where they stood doomed to fail. Xena had to give them credit for that. A glint of golden hair caught her eye and her heart gave a shout within her chest. Candace was still alive and battling like the true warrior she was. Ephiny was to her left and behind her but something was wrong. The queen laying was on the ground. Thresha was struggling with three men while Candace was trying to hold off two more. *Where is Senar?* The raven haired warrior flew as fast as she could through the raging bloodshed around her. Her eyes never left the scene of two warriors fighting to defend their queen. In her vision she saw Tresha fall under the sword of one of her opponents. Xena was so close but could not save her from the next blow that took her life. Tresha's lips moved forming words she could not hear, then she fell to the earth. Candace was left to battle alone. She did not falter. Suddenly, her body jerked backwards and a look of shock crossed her face. "NOOOOOO!" Xena was less than ten strides away and she watched events unfold in slow motion. Candace's body jerked again and the men around her backed away not wishing to be the next victim. One more arrow sliced into her thigh and she knelt to the ground. Xena caught the final bolt aimed at her love's heart. Following the path of flight she locked eyes with the shooter.

Kayla smiled menacingly at her and turned to run. A tall, brutal blonde, caught her by the neck. Senar was seething with anger, but now was not the time for justice. The Queens Champion punched her hard in the face and then took her feet out from under her, slamming her hard to the ground.

"If Ephiny were not my spouse, I would rip out your heart and feed it to Candace's dog. But, lucky for you, she is." Senar hog tied the traitor and threw her over her shoulder, carrying her to one of the large black mare's belonging to the Queens Guard. After she threw her across the sturdy horse she grabbed Kayla by the hair. Aqua eyes stared into brown with an amused look. "Ya know, Kayla, I'm gonna enjoy watching Xena tear you apart."

"Bite me." So Senar did. Until she screamed.

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

A tall brave warrior caught her lover in strong arms before the blonde could fully hit the ground. She spoke softly as she assessed the wounds. One in the left shoulder, and one in left side about an inch in, so far so good. It was the one in her right thigh that was cause for concern. It was bleeding heavily and Candace was losing blood quickly. "Just can't leave you alone can I?"

"Haha, Xena. Help Ephiny. Let me be."

Tamping down her own panic and stopping her whirling emotions, Xena determined that she wouldn't lose it now. "Ephiny is fine. It's just a flesh wound. You on the other hand are not so lucky. I am going to remove two of these so we can get the bleeding stopped, O.K.?" Blue eyes sought acknowledgement of her intent.

"Yeah." The words were weak and breathless. "Xena, I'm cold."

*Shit.* I know, sweetheart. You've lost quite a bit of blood. Stay with me, Candace, please." She tried not to sound desperate, but she did.

Candace reached up her good hand and touched a damp cheek. "I'm trying." And then she passed out.

The battle was all but over and Amazons were gathering up the wounded putting them in categories of injury. Ephiny and Senar looked to Xena who was working on her love. "She's going to be alright, Xena."

Packing Candace's wounds with salve and gauze, she shot a quick look to Ephiny. "Not if we don't get her to the village and work on this leg. I can't remove the arrow safely here. All I can do is put a tourniquet on it to slow the bleeding." She gazed up at her friends and then down at the body of the Regent. "I'm so sorry about Tresha. She died with great honor. That doesn't make it better, does it?"

"No, it doesn't. Xena, you should know, she gave Right of Caste to Candace. Normally it would go to her sister or daughter, but she had neither, plus she respected her. She is now Regent."

"Not again." Xena continued to work on her lover's wounds, getting her ready to transport. "I don't mean that the way it sounds. It's just that if she were any more like Gabrielle, I would swear she was....." She paused to put her thoughts in order. "Wait a minute. She said something........nah."

Xena picked up her treasure and started to turn away.

"Xena?" The warrior's eyes averted to face Senar. "What did she say?"

"I asked her to stop being Gabrielle and she said.....she said she couldn't stop being her anymore than she could stop being herself. What does that mean?" She was beginning to understand what it had taken her mother all of ten minutes to figure out.

"Only you can find the answer to that my friend but, I would strongly suggest that you find out." Blue green eyes implored the warrior to search the clues she had been given.

Xena frowned at her friend and nodded. She would do just that, but now was not the time. She gently lifted the prone woman in her arms and carried her to Argo. Senar followed quietly behind. Xena turned and handed Candace to Ephiny's wife and mounted up. Handing the small bundle back to Xena's charge she implored, "Hurry Xena." Xena nodded and went as fast as she could.

Drelmar met her outside of the healers hut. Many of the injured had already started to pour into the compound. It would soon become a nightmare for all who would call themselves healer. "Xena, what's the problem with this one?" She didn't realize yet who was injured.

"Del, take her."

The healer reached to take the wrapped warrior from her. "Sweet Artemis! Candace! An arrow? But...... An Amazon arrow." The healer looked to Xena who said nothing. The healer would find out soon enough.

Xena talked as she dismounted and took Candace back in her arms. She relayed information as they walked into the hut. "Not just one. Three. The other two are not as bad. They are completely through, very clean. I removed the bolts and packed them. They'll need to be sterilized, but they are not the problem." Xena laid the injured woman on the bed in the center, "The bolt to her leg isn't through and it is bleeding heavily. We'll need to open it up and remove it, then try to see if the artery has been hit."

The older healer walked to the basin and began to cleanse her hands and her started her silent prayer ritual. She spoke to the warrior at the same time. "There is no 'we' in this Xena. You are needed out in the field to tend to the wounded. You must leave her with me trusting that I will do all I can."

"NO! She is mine to care for."

"Xena when you became an Amazon your pledge, your word, made the strength of the nation a priority above all else. That includes those you love. You must save all those you can for the greater good. You're needed out in the field. I promise that I will do my very best."

Xena knew the words the healer spoke were true. "I can't live without her, Del. Send word if.... Send word when you are finished."

"Don't fret Warrior. You will be the first."

"Thank you. Oh, and Del, she's your new Regent. Treat her as royalty."

"Because of her heart alone I would treat her as such. She doesn't need a title. Now go!"

Xena kissed Candace on the forehead and whispered to her, "You have returned my heart to me, Little One. Please, don't leave me alone with it, for without you it will die. I love you." Xena stood and allowed the lone tear on her cheek to fall to the ground.

=/~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

The dead numbered fourteen warriors. Twelve Greek, two Amazon sisters from the north. The wounded were not as many as should have been. Mostly there were many stitches and stories to go around. There were six committed to the infirmary with serious injuries, none of which were life threatening. One was still in the healers hut under the care of Delmar in very grave condition. Xena paced the worn pathway in front of the hut.

"Xena, sit for a minute and I'll get you some tea." Ephiny put a soothing hand on her tall friends arm. Cool blue eyes met hers. They were filled to the brim with worry and fear.

"I can't sit, Eph. I have too much on my mind."

"You want to talk about it?"

"It's more than that." She pointed with her chin to the hut. She paused before she spoke again, "You promise you won't think I'm crazy?"

"I already do."

Xena smiled weakly. "Yeah, I suppose you do. There is something strange about Candace and this whole situation that I have been trying to put my finger on. You heard what she said to me, right?"

Ephiny and Senar looked at each other and then back to the warrior. They nodded their heads in a unified affirmation.

"Now, hear me out. Shortly after she passed, Gabrielle came to me in a dream and said she was going to return someday. It was so real I can still see her. I passed it off as just what it seemed to be, a dream. Now I'm not so sure. Remember the time I was in Autolycus? Well, what if the same thing is happening here?"

"Would you care to explain that?" Ephiny was coaxing Xena to get all of her thoughts out.

"You think I've lost it."

"Not at all. I have thought along the same lines. Please, continue."

"O.K. She looks like her, she moves like her and talks like her. She sure as Tartarus swings a staff like her. She has the same smarts and leadership abilities, not to mention the negotiation thing. BUT, she can sing, play that instrument of hers, swing a sword, ride a horse and she likes to fish. And that sign language thing. So, she's Gabrielle, but she's not. Here's the big question. This came to me on my ride north....How did she know that Gabrielle had me voted in as an Amazon? It was a meeting that the council was sworn to secrecy about. Unless you were in that meeting you would have no idea. She couldn't have known. The scrolls from the assembly that day were hidden in a concealed case under the floor of the library. Only two people knew where they were. And I'm one of the two. So unless our little warrior in there is a mind reader, she's Gabrielle. Well, they're Gabrielle. Is this as confusing as I think it is?"

"Yes, Xena it is. I think you need to ask Candace about these things." Not sure what else to say she looked at her wife. Senar shrugged and raised her eyebrows.

"YOU KNEW!"

"Xena...." Senar started to speak.

"Xena?"

The dark haired woman turned toward the soft voice behind her. The healer was standing calmly in the door way.

"Is she..I mean...Is." She couldn't say the words that wrapped fear around her soul.

"She's resting. Xena, she has lost alot of blood. I removed the arrow and stitched the artery. If she makes it until morning we will still have infection to worry about, but she will have made it through the hardest part."

"Can I see her? Please."

"You may, but be gentle with her. Any excitement at all could be deadly."

Xena looked back to her friends. "Not a good time to bring up what we have been discussing, I suppose." They both nodded adamant agreement.

Xena walked quietly into the shrine of the healer. Her lover lay quietly under covers of cotton, very pale and her face was drawn. Xena held back her emotions and put the lid tight upon them. She had seen this look before. Only one in ten men survived when the face of death came upon them, it was the face that was set upon the woman she intended to make her wife. Her breath was shallow. If she didn't know better, Xena would have thought she had already succumb to her injuries. Xena pulled up a chair and sat next to the bed. Candace would remain under the roof of the healer at least until the night passed. Xena touched her moist forehead and studied her features. Speaking as if the woman under the blanket could hear her she whispered, "Just who are you, my love? Hum? You know it doesn't matter to me. I love you and I need you to live for me. Ya got that? So, be strong my warrior. For me, you fight this!" She laid her head on the cot and closed her tear filled eyes.

Through the night both warriors fought for the life of the one. Xena kept vigil over Candace possessively, holding her hand and wiping her forehead with cool cloths. The healer looked in on her as she could with all the other injured keeping her occupied. Somewhere near dawn the fever broke within the small blonde and her breathing became deeper. She was sleeping and Xena let go a sigh of relief. The first hurdle was passed.

Filtered light entered the hut an brought a weak patient up out of her deep slumber. Candace looked around the room to get her bearings. She was alive, she knew that much. She tried to move and she knew with even more assuredness that she was in a great deal of pain. *Drugs. I need drugs!* *Candace! Deep breaths. Control the pain. Don't 'et it control you!* She started taking deep controlled breaths to at least get a small grip on her discomfort. After a few minutes she opened her eyes again and they caught the sweetest sight she thought she might ever see in her life. Xena's head was resting on her arms, and she was sound asleep on the cot. Luckily she was on the side of Candace's good arm. The blonde reached out a small hand and placed it on Xena's raven locks. Even this small movement caused her side to scream out in rebellion.

Xena felt a soft touch on her head that brought her out of her sleep. Looking up she saw perhaps the most welcomed sight she had seen in years if ever. Tired green eyes filled with love looked at her softly. As she sat up she took in her own hand the hand that touched her." Candace. Thank the Gods. How do you feel?"

"Well, ya know that big red truck I keep telling you about?"

"Yeah."

"I think it ran over me." She may be weak but humor was in her nature.

"Is that like getting run over by the ale wagon?"

"I think so. I'm really thirsty. Could you get me some water?"

"Sure."

She returned with a cup and a bent reed. Putting the straw near Candace's mouth, the wounded Amazon did the best she could to drink. The mixture of cool water and pain was too much. "Xe, I'm gonna be sick."

Xena grabbed a bowl and held her lovers head as she leaned over it. The contents of her stomach emptied, she laid back to the pillow. "Sorry." Blue eyes caressed her sweetly with understanding.

Xena wiped her face and mouth with a damp cloth and held the cup back up to her. Candace shook her head 'no'. Xena could see the discomfort in green eyes. "You have nothing to be sorry for. You are doing well for being in a lot of pain. I'll get you something. Be right back."

Xena prepared the medicine that would ease her lover's pain, mixing the pain killing powder with heated water to which she added grated ginger and some cloves to settle her queasy stomach. "We are going to have to sit you up a little for this. Relax and let me do all the work."

A strong arm snaked behind her back and Xena lifted her slowly. The bandage on her side turned crimson and she cried out in agony. Tears welled up in her eyes as she tried to be strong. She took deep breaths again and calmed herself. The discomfort eased as her body got used to the position. A cup was at her lips and she sipped. She made a face that her lover laughed gently at. "Alright Xena Warrior Smarty Pants, you outta try this stuff. It's nasty." She continued to drink despite the horrid taste. If it made her feel better she'd suffer through it. Her body threatened to reject the medicine but she forced it down. Xena eased her back down to the cot and she breathed a sigh of relief.

A callused hand stroked across her forehead and soft lips kissed it.

"That should start to work soon. It's going to knock you out so don't fight it."

"Like I am in any shape to fight anything." She coughed heavily and winced. That hurt.

Xena stared at her and reached out a finger to her face. She drew it away with blood. "Shit." *Not again.*

"Xe?"

"Blood. Your lung must have been nicked by the bolt to your shoulder. Damn it, this is not right!"

"Xena, I'm gonna be fine." She coughed again and it wracked her body. She knew this was not good. *I need antibiotics.* *You need to fight this, Candace. WE need to fight this.* *I'm trying.*

"Candace, get some rest. There's not much blood so the injury is not as bad as I have seen." She didn't add the rest. Those injuries were almost always fatal.

"Did Del cauterize it?"

"She cleaned it and wants it to bleed out a bit. Why?"

"I know this sounds strange but I want you to pour the strongest wine or whiskey you can find in it and then pack it with honey."

"The wine I understand, but a honey poultice?"

"Honey draws out infection. Xe, I know this is bad. Real bad. I'm going to get alot worse before I get better. You have to promise me that you will not exhaust yourself trying to care for me."

"You're going to be fine." She was trying to ignore the possibility the she could still lose her.

"I don't have the strength to argue this with you. Promise me."

"I promise." Xena had to know. If she let Candace slip into unconsiousness she may never have answers. "Candace, I need to know something."

"Anything."

"Are you....is....uh. Is Gabrielle with you?"

"Yeah, Xena, she is." Now came the moment of truth. Did Xena really love her or just the Gabrielle within.

"Can I talk to her?"

"You talk to her all the time. Well, she talks to you."

"But, I...." She had no idea what to say or ask.

"Geez, ya big dumb warrior, it took ya long enough."

"Yep, you're her or she's you or, I don't know or."

"What should I call you?"

"Whatever is most comfortable for you. I've been called Candace so long that I may not answer to Gabrielle." Candace was fading fast as the drugs in her system began to take over.

"Listen, rest now. We'll talk about this later. I love you." She paused and thought for a moment. "Both of you."

Candace gave a weak smile and slipped out of consciousness.

Xena had promised that if the small blonde suffered infection, she would not exhaust herself. She had lied. Candace lay deathly quiet except for the rasp in her chest. Her body was almost too hot to touch from the strength of the fever that gripped her small body. The tall warrior never left her side except for calls of nature and whenever Queen Ephiny ordered her to rest. If the singer was fighting just one battle it would be less worrisome, but such was not the case. Her leg had become inflamed the afternoon of the first day. The healer had taken the advice that she had given Xena and had put a honey poultice on the infected leg. It continued to drain and the swelling went down, but it was still hot to the touch. Her side was still red from irritation but it remained free of infection. The problem that threatened her life was the building infection in her lungs. She had no immunities left to fight the growing menace as her body fought two battles. It had been three days since she had lost awareness and there was no indication that she would come to soon. She thrashed in delirium, crying out names Xena recognized and names that she didn't. Cool towels over her lover's naked body were the only thing keeping the fever from claiming her. If one more night passed they might lose her. It was late in the afternoon and it wasn't looking good.

Xena knelt next to the bed and murmured words she wasn't used to. "I haven't prayed for a very long time and if you could just do something here I won't bother you again, but please, I can't lose her now. Not again. She's a good brave soul who deserves to live a long life. Haven't we been through enough? Please, I beg you, don't let her die."

Candace was lost in a world of tormenting dreams. Images flashed by her in rapid succession and her eyes fought to follow. Some of the images were strange and unfamiliar. Violent clashings of sword and shield with blood flowing into pools beneath her feet. Faces of people she didn't recognize flashed in her mind. A young man run through by the sword of a crazed blonde shook her emotions. There were men, knights, choked on their own tongues sprawled across the floor before her. Suddenly there was a truck careening toward a small car. She screamed as loud as she could but to no avail. Her brother was once again slaughtered, this time before her very eyes.

"NOOOO!"

All the scenes suddenly ended and an undeniable calm washed over her. There was a light in the distance from her that called to her, drew her. She began to float toward that light when a golden haired being blocked her path.

"Excuse me. I need to get to the light." She spoke the obvious to the angel before her.

"Candace, listen to me." Candace tilted her head. How did this woman know her? Who was she?

"Please don't go yet."

"But, I have to. They're waiting for me." She looked longingly over the short being's shoulder.

"Look at me." Candace turned her gaze to meet the woman's. "Feel the power surrounding you. Do you feel that?"

"Yes. What is that? It is so warm." It caused a smile to appear on her face.

"That's love. That's Xena."

"Xena?" *I know that name. But how?*

"She loves you. She loves us both." She reached out with small hands and caressed the warrior's face, her eyes bored into her.

"Both? Both........Gabrielle?" She knew now.

"Yes." The blonde smiled brightly at her.

Candace reached out and grabbed the woman before her, drawing her into a fierce hug. "GAB! It is so good to see you. What happened to your hair?"

"Long story. Now, will you please stay?"

"Where are we?" Candace looked around at the vastness around her. It was a space full of light and peace, but it was empty and suddenly very lonely.

"We are in between life and death. You are very sick in life, but you can survive this. You are dying out there right now. Xena is trying to bring you back, but you have to decide to stay. Well?"

There was pain, grief and agony waiting for her over there, but there was love that out weighed them all. "Yes, I'll stay."

The next thing she knew she took a deep breath and coughing shook her body. She was covered with sweat and aches tortured her body, but she was alive. Her eyes flew open to see a tear stained face studying her intently. Blue eyes filled with relief sought her out.

Her voice was raspy and dry, "Hey Xena. That was close."

Xena's forehead met hers and then soft lips kissed her. She knew tears were falling on her and she wanted to comfort this strong woman that cried for her but was much too weak to do so.

"Thank you!" The whisper came from the mighty warrior's lips like a prayer.

"You should thank Gabrielle." She said the words and promptly fell into a deep and dreamless sleep.

-/~~~~~~~~~~~~~>

Xena walked with determination to the cell that held Kayla. She didn't know what she would say to her, but the words would come in the moment. Thinking and gathering her emotions, she paused outside of the holding area. Candace would not approve, for that matter neither would Gabrielle.

Xena nodded at the guards on the way in and they acknowledged her. They would be the last people to say a word, should anything happen to their prisoner. The captive lay on her cot with her back to the cell door. Eyes wide open she heard Xena enter and pause in front of her cell.

"Well, Xena. Come to take out your revenge? Huummm. I'm sure the guards will hide your little secret if you do."

Xena scratched the back of her neck and smirked at the comment. She knew that she had grown above the behavior of the animal now in the cage. She wouldn't act in haste when it came to punishing Kayla.

"I won't do anything yet, Kayla. You are lucky though. She lived. If she had not you would have felt my wrath, have no doubt about that. I would have tortured you until you begged for death and then I would have beaten you until you couldn't beg any longer. But I think your own stupidity is an apt punishment for you. Oh, don't get me wrong. I won't be asking the council to be easy on you or pleading your case in any way." She paused letting it sink in. "I just don't get it though. Innocent people died because you couldn't lose face. What good is pride when it leads to foolishness?"

"You should talk, Destroyer of Nations. Besides, no one was supposed to die. Pracmore was supposed to get you and then leave. Nothing more. He lied to me."

"Never trust a liar, Kayla. I don't believe you or you never would have tried to kill Candace. How dare you! GODS! I would love to rip you apart!"

"Temper, temper, Xena. What happened to apt punishment?" Kayla turned over and sneered at the tall warrior

Xena hissed her reply. "Don't push me! I just might lose that temper and we would both be sorry."

"Why are you here, Xena? Huuum? What did you expect from me? Remorse? Regret? Pah! You are all a bunch of idiotic worms following ancient laws that make you the laughing stock of the land. You're pathetic. I wish that bitch of yours had died. It would serve you right!"

Xena turned and walked slowly to the door. Stepping out she turned to the guard on her right.

"Keys."

The Amazons looked at each other. Xena glanced at the guard and put out her hand.

"Xena, you could get arrested for this."

The stoic woman waited patiently. Sighing the guard handed Xena the keys. Xena punched her to make it look good. Looking at the guard, now on the ground she explained, "If anyone asks, I forced you to give me the keys." As much as it hurt, the guard was grateful.

Xena walked calmly back to the cell and unlocked the door. Leaving all weapons behind, she locked them both in the cell and dropped the keys just outside the door. Kayla stood in fear at first and then that pride of hers got in the way again.

"What are you gonna do Xena? Kill me?"

"Not yet. I just want to make sure you meant what you said."

"I....." Kayla saw no means of escape. Just how stupid was she?

"Well?"

The prisoner thought for long moments before she tired to answer. All of the horrid things she had done, things that had ruined her life, came rushing up to greet her with a vengeance. Kayla dropped her eyes to the floor. "I didn't mean it, Xena. I....I..." Tears welled up and she swore. "Merde! This whole thing got out of hand. I'm sorry I hurt Candace. I know that won't take back what I did and I thank Artemis she lived, but believe me, I am so very sorry. All of this stupid anger of mine has lost me everything. Do you get that?"

"More than you know." Xena wanted nothing more than to give this shallow woman a sound thrashing, but she couldn't. Not now. She was doing well at beating herself up.

"I have nothing left. No family. No home. No friends. And very soon, no life. It's O.K. though. I deserve it."

"You know Candace will come to your defense. She will ask that you be exiled. Would you choose exile or death?"

"Does it matter if I live in disgrace or die in it. I am already dead. Go tell your intended not to fight for my life. I gave up the right to live a long time ago."

"Kayla, I used to think the same thing until I met Gabrielle. She gave me a real reason to live, and allowed me to let myself be happy. I can't say I have totally forgiven myself, but I can live with it better. I can let someone love me. That's another hurdle. Live first. Love when you're able. Think about life, Kayla." The blue eyed woman retrieved the keys and let herself out.

"Xena? Why?"

"Because I know that love can make us all do crazy things we would never otherwise dream of doing."

"I don't deserve understanding from you."

"Perhaps not. Remember this, just because I understand doesn't mean I forgive. Don't ever let me catch you in a dark alley." The searing look blue eyes burned into her was enough to convince Kayla that she was not kidding.

"Right."

Continued - Part 6

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