“Ares was in it for the battles. They were more common then. The mortal given the amulets used them well at first, but his greed soon took over. Blood was shed everywhere and no one was safe. It was a dark time. So Zeus ordered the amulets destroyed. That was impossible. Instead the amulets were taken from the warlord and cast into the four outermost regions of the land, where they have remained until now.”
Gabrielle spoke, “I understand Ares, Athena, and Hades putting power into these amulets, but why Aphrodite?”
“Aphrodite put power into the peacemaker. It has the power to bind all the others together or to render them useless.”
“Oh.”
“The first amulet, is the amulet of power. It gives its wearer heightened skills. The second, the amulet of wisdom, gives its wearer the ability to choose wisely his army, and to make battle plans that are almost flawless. The third is the amulet of death. It gives the wearer the ability to make the mortal body withstand most lethal attacks. And of course the last is the peacemaker.”
“So why exactly are you telling us this?”
“Because Xena, Ares found the location of the first amulet, gave it to a warlord. With the first he has easily found the second and is headed toward the third. You are closer than anyone else. You can probably get there first and retrieve the amulet.”
“Just exactly who is this warlord?”
“His name is Prevarien.”
Xena eyes smoldered in anger, and her fists clenched tight. ‘I warned him once.’ She thought.
Nike saw the dangerous look come into the warrior’s eyes. “You will head to the east. Hercules has already found the peacemaker, and is preparing for your arrival.”
Xena sat for a second thinking over her options. ‘I can either let Prevarien take over, or I can stop him. Hard choice. Gods can play such dirty tricks.’
“I just have one question. Why don’t you gods stop him yourself?”
“Once the amulets were given to a mortal, it became a mortal game. Zeus has us bound with so many rules we can’t do much of anything. I’m probably breaking half of them now, but Athena thought it wise to do this.”
“Ok, I’ll do it, but you owe me. Now, how do I get there?”
Nike smiled and a map appeared in her hand. She handed it to the warrior. “I’ll be going now. I’ve probably stayed long enough. Thank you Xena. We do owe you much.”
With that the goddess disappeared, leaving the two alone. Gabrielle looked at Xena, not bothering to hide her anger. “I? Xena, what did you mean by that?”
“Gabrielle, I want you to go on ahead to Hercules.”
“What? I can’t believe you’re going to do this alone! After all we’ve been through, you’re treating me like a kid again!”
“No, Gabrielle I . . . ”
“Stop Xena! We’re a team. I won’t have this happen again. If you try to leave without me, then I’ll follow you. I’m sorry but you won’t do this alone. Prevarien has it out for you, do you think that’s changed? You need someone to watch your back. Actually I think I’ve gotten pretty good at that. I realized something Nike forgot to mention. Ares will try to persuade you again, especially now that he has these amulets. I can’t let you take that chance.”
Xena blinked, momentarily stunned by the flow of words coming from the bard’s mouth. Of course everything she said was true, but the warrior in her wouldn’t put the bard in danger again. She cared too much to do that. Especially after what Prevarien had done last time. She only wanted to protect the most precious thing in her life. Xena walked forward and rested her hands on the bard’s shoulders. Gabrielle looked at her with misty green eyes before speaking again. “Xena, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said . . . ”
“Shh.” Xena put a finger over the bard’s lips. “I know. You’re just worried. So am I. I don’t want you getting hurt, but I suppose I can’t stop you. You are my partner after all. What good is only half a team?”
Gabrielle let a small giggle escape before she wrapped her arms around the warrior’s waist in a silent apology.
The figure sat with feet propped up against the railing of the porch. Calmly whittling a piece of wood, it barely looked up at the appearance of the god. “Nike, I was really expecting someone else.”
“I see you’ve been at your old tricks again. You won’t get his attention this time.”
“Really? Does he have better things to do?” The figure laughed and looked the goddess in the face.
“Actually, yes. I’m afraid he’s found the amulets.”
The figure now sat up straight and regarded the goddess with almost shocked attention. “I didn’t realize they still existed. I guess the god’s are really embarrassed about this one.”
“You could say that. Now I have a personal favor to ask you. Tomorrow two warriors are going to be headed this way. I want you to make sure they reach the temple.”
“So the all-powerful gods are turning to mortals to do their dirty work. Typical.”
“You’re not mortal, yet I’m asking you. Do you refuse?”
“No, I guess I can’t, though the gods have never done anything good for me. I always seem to be punished. Besides if the gods chose these warriors then they must be good. Why would they need my help?”
“You’re right they are two of the best, but the gods can afford for nothing to go wrong. Ares has a personal history with both of them. I don’t expect any troubles, but just in case.”
“Who are these two mortals?”
“Xena, the warrior princess, and her companion Gabrielle. Hercules and Iolaus, have already found the peacemaker and are waiting for the amulet of death. It has to reach them. Just make sure they get the amulet, then you can leave. That’s all I’m asking.”
“A reformed warlord and a bard. I’ve heard they’re good. It might do me well to have to work with mortals for a while again. I could enjoy it.” The figure paused, “Then again, probably not. I haven’t had a meaningful conversation with them in about twenty years.”
Nike stepped off the porch, then turned back to regard the dark figure. “Maybe its time you did then. You’ll find these two aren’t like most mortals. They have the potential for greatness.”
“That was said about me once.” The figure added sadly.
Nike nodded a sad smile before disappearing in a flash of light. The figure shook its head at the parting before shaking its head, “mortals.”
Chapter 2
Gabrielle held tight to Xena’s waist and watched the ground disappear beneath Argo for the hundredth time. ‘You think I would be used to this by now.’ She thought. She understood the need for it all too well however. They had to reach this temple first, and get the amulet. Hopefully they could be gone before Prevarien even got there. She wasn’t in a hurry to see him again.
She knew Xena was worried about her safety, but she had the feeling that if she didn’t come along, something would go wrong. That was the last thing they needed. Besides she couldn’t miss out on the chance for a good story. That alone justified the danger she faced. Well, most of the time.
Argo slowed and trotted over to the side of the road. A small stream trickled over the rocks nearby. Xena dismounted and helped the bard to the ground. The warrior smiled when she rubbed her back trying to work out the kinks. “It shouldn’t be much farther. At least according to Nike’s map. We should be there before sundown. I really want to be far enough away before it gets too dark, if that’s at all possible.”
Gabrielle nodded and accepted the waterskin handed to her. She drank deep then handed it back to her friend. “Then let’s get going. I don’t want to be around for uninvited guests, if you know what I mean.”
“Why Gabrielle, are you actually eager to get on Argo?”
The bard’s reply was cut off by a snarl from behind. “Prevarien told us you might show up.”
Xena whirled with her sword out. Gabrielle grabbed her staff from its holder on Argo. “You boys really shouldn’t sneak up on people, it could get you killed.”
“We’ll see.”
The man charged Xena, but was effectively blocked. Gabrielle moved away ready to face her own attacker. Most however, were focused on the big warrior, charging her all at once only to be sent back with a wide roundhouse kick. Gabrielle faced down a rather large man, with a broadsword. The bard blocked his first strike with her staff, and felt shockwaves shoot through her hands and arms. This big man could hit. She knew she had to send him down quick or the sheer force of his blows would wear her out.
The man raised his sword for an overhand strike only to stop quickly and look at her strangely. His mouth parted and a trickle of blood escaped. He fell face forward, and Gabrielle expected to see a chakrum sticking out of his back. Instead she saw an intricately carved sword that she didn’t recognize. Looking up she saw a dark cloaked figure coming toward her to retrieve the weapon. Gabrielle stood speechless, as the figure yanked the sword free and continued on to Xena’s men. No one except Gabrielle noticed the new addition to the fight, and she watched in confusion. The figure was completely clad in black as far as she could tell. The dark cloak hid the face and gave away nothing as to the person underneath.
The men that were still conscious and trying to bring Xena down were thrown backwards by the warrior, and grabbed again by the figure and thrown farther down the road. Xena straightened from her fighting crouch and raised an eyebrow. Gabrielle came to stand beside her. The figure turned to face the men standing in the road. One had a crossbow aimed directly toward them. He let the arrow fly and before a warning shout could be issued it thunked into the figure’s chest. However, it didn’t seem to have any effect. Xena’s chakrum shot out and sent the man to Hades.
The figure spoke in a low whispery voice. “These ladies have a job to do. I suggest you let them do it.” Reaching up a covered hand the figure pulled the arrow from its chest and threw it toward the men. They looked on in fear before turning to run into the woods, not bothering with their wounded or dead. The figure turned back to Xena and Gabrielle.
“Finish what you have to do. But be quick. Prevarien is closer now.” The figure stumbled into the woods and was gone before the two could react. It took Gabrielle only a few seconds to realize that she was just looking at an immortal. Xena was already on her way to Argo, and throwing herself in the saddle. Gabrielle quickly followed and was soon seated behind the warrior. “Xena, do you have any idea who that was?”
“It wasn’t an enemy, but I’m not sure I’d call them a friend either. We have to move fast now, so there’s no time to worry about it.” With a swift kick Argo was sent off at a gallop.
The shallow valley below was over run with trees and bushes. No one had come this way for a long time. Xena and Gabrielle looked down on it from a ridge and surveyed the surroundings. They could just see the edge of the forgotten temple, which had been taken over by the forest.
“I don’t see any of Prevarien’s men. That doesn’t mean they’re not here though.” Xena said.
“So, do we just go down there or what?”
“I guess so, but keep your eyes open, and be careful.”
The two made their way to the temple without incident, and it only took moments for Xena to pry the door open on the temple. The interior was surprisingly intact, though every thing was covered in dust. Xena stepped forward cautiously, and looked to the dais near the back of the temple. A small altar was in place, and on it was the dust-covered amulet of death. They rushed forward and looked at the amulet with a mild fascination. “I guess this is it.” Gabrielle said quietly.
The amulet didn’t appear valuable in any way, yet both knew of its value. Xena reached forward and lifted it from its holder, then listened intently, as if she expected the whole place to come down. Nothing happened, the temple remained quiet, and everything remained intact. Shoving the amulet into a leather bag at her waist, Xena looked to her friend. “Let’s get out of here.”
Almost running back to the temple doors, they threw them open only to be greeted with an outraged yell. “Xena!”
Prevarien stood in front of at least fifty men, with the amulet of power around his neck and another hanging from his belt. “Kill them!” He shouted, as his archers came forward.
Xena threw the door shut and heard the thud of the arrows as they sank into the wood. “We have to find another way out of here.”
Before a search could begin a loud explosion sounded from the rear of the temple. The ceiling shook, knocking loose pieces of rock to the floor. Dust flew making sight nearly impossible, until bright shafts of sunlight penetrated the dim. “Gabrielle! Are you all right?!”
“I’m fine!” Gabrielle yelled as she grabbed Xena’s arm.
The dust began to clear and they could see a large hole in the back wall. The dark-cloaked figure appeared in the opening, gesturing them forward. Coming forward, Xena saw the figure standing with Argo’s reins in its hand. “Get out of here!”
The words sprang Xena into motion, as she pushed Gabrielle up onto the horse then mounted herself. “Stick to the woods until you reach the stream, then get on the road, and run like you were being chased by Hades himself.”
“What about you?” Gabrielle yelled.
“I’ll be fine. You haven’t seen the last of me.”
Xena spurred Argo forward into the woods. Behind them the valley erupted into loud bangs that sounded as if all Tartaurus had broken loose.
Chapter 3
It had finally gotten too dark for the duo to continue, and Xena had reluctantly stopped to make camp. Setting up near a stream, deep in the woods was the best choice the warrior could find, but she wasn’t happy about it. Not wanting to risk a fire they set up their bedrolls and ate a cold dinner. They had remained silent each stuck in her own thoughts. Gabrielle’s were focused on the mysterious stranger who had already helped them twice. As were Xena’s, yet she found herself more worried about protecting Gabrielle, and the amulet at the same time.
“Do you think Nike sent that person to help us?” Gabrielle said, breaking the silence.
“I think so. I at least wish she would have told us about it.”
Gabrielle said nothing more. Instead she wrapped herself in her bedroll and turned to face Xena. “I think I’m going to try to get some sleep. You should do the same Xena. At least a few hours anyway.”
“I will Gabrielle. Go on. I’ll wake you if something happens.”
Gabrielle nodded and shut her eyes. In a sleepy, slurred voice she said, “Goodnight, Xena.”
“Goodnight Gabrielle.”
Almost immediately Xena heard the slow, even breathing of slumber, and knew the bard was visiting Morpheus. The warrior absently fingered the bag, her thoughts far away. ‘If it comes to a choice between Gabrielle and these amulets, what will I do? Save Gabrielle of course. Nothing is more precious to me.’
Xena snapped her self out of thoughts that were so dangerous. ‘It won’t come down to that. I won’t let it.’
Completing the argument with herself, she tried to settle down in her own bedroll. She tucked the leather bag containing the amulet under the covers, determined to protect it along with the bard who slept only a few feet away.
They set off the next morning before dawn at a slower pace, that still ate the miles quickly. At midday they stopped for another cold lunch, and quick rest, before starting out again for the temple in the east. Xena figured they would make it by midday tomorrow. Near sunset, the warrior started looking for a place to set up camp, when she heard a sound she wished she hadn’t.
“Joxer, the mighty. . . Hey Xena, Gabrielle!”
“Oh, great. This is all we needed.” Gabrielle groaned from behind.
The wannabe warrior ran up to them and stopped with a silly grin on his face. Xena suppressed a grimace at the mismatched armor. “What are you two doing way out here?”
“We were about to ask you the same thing.” Xena said.
“I heard about Ares’ temples and I thought I would come out here and find out what’s been going on. A warrior with my skill will have no trouble dispatching someone as cowardly as that.”
A voice spoke from the trees behind them causing Joxer to whirl and draw his sword. “Well then, warrior, I guess you’ve found who you’re looking for.”
The figure emerged still dressed in its unrevealing cloak and strode up to the man. Joxer swallowed before speaking. “Surrender yourself to Joxer the Mighty or die.”
The figure ignored him. Instead its attention turned to the two women on horseback. “Prevarien has been slowed but not by much. When I left, they were just starting to pick the rocks out of their skin. You have maybe a day on them.”
Joxer didn’t give either of them a chance to reply, because he challenged the figure again. “Surrender yourself to me coward.”
The figure lashed out its hand sending Joxer to the ground. Before he could recover, he had his own sword pointed at his throat. Xena drew her own sword, not knowing what was going to happen next. “Never call anyone a coward if they can beat you. From the looks of things you should watch your mouth. The next person might not be so generous.”
The figure threw his sword into the woods then drew back the hood over its head. A young man who looked no older than Gabrielle turned to face them. “Why are you helping us?” Xena asked.
“I don’t owe much to the gods, but the amulets of war got me into this mess. I won’t let it happen again.”
“What do you mean ‘got you into this mess’?”
“A long story, I don’t want to get into. We need to go.”
The man disappeared into the woods and returned quickly leading a black horse. It was obviously stolen from one of Prevarien’s soldiers. “So do you have a name?” Gabrielle asked.
“Devon.” A simple answer to a simple question, yet Xena was sure the man was hiding something.
“Hey, what about me? You can’t go off without someone to protect you.” Joxer said as he picked himself up.
“You can camp with us tonight Joxer, but tomorrow you go in your own direction.” Xena said, a little too harshly. Heading into the woods, Xena found a suitable place to camp. A deep stream ran nearby and large boulders lined one side of the clearing. Setting up was a quiet affair. No one spoke not even Joxer, who somehow sensed the mood of the other three. It wasn’t until camp was set and dinner was cooking until anyone spoke.
“How do you know about the amulets of war?” Gabrielle asked Devon, who was sitting away from everyone else studying a hole in his shirt. He looked up at the question.
“I was born a few years before they were made. The original holder of the amulets was named Drakon. He was one of Ares’ chosen.”
“I’m helping you with this partly to get back at Ares, and partly to prevent what happened last time from happening again. I don’t hang around much with mortals anymore. It’s hard for me to relate with constant change.”
Xena looked at the man for a minute, then spoke, piercing him with intense blue eyes. “Why so much anger toward Ares?”
“My own reasons.”
Xena nodded. “Then I won’t ask. Right now an enemy of Ares is a friend of mine. Do you know what will happen when we get the amulet to Hercules tomorrow?”
Devon nodded and looked down into the fire again. “Hopefully, the peacemaker will render all the others useless. If we can’t find someone to do that, then we have to get the other two from Prevarien. The lovely goddess of victory didn’t tell me who that would be, so I don’t know what the gods intend to do.”
“Nike said the gods weren’t part of this since the amulets had been given to a mortal. So how are we mortals supposed to know what to do with this gods-made destruction?” Gabrielle asked.
Devon started laughing, “Now I know why you’re a bard. That’s very inventive wording. You should write it down. Nike didn’t tell me anything either. Only that nothing could go wrong. I was the extra incentive that the amulet of death would reach Hercules if you two failed. Since you didn’t, now I’m extra protection. That’s all I know. Maybe Hercules knows the rest maybe he doesn’t, but we’ve still got to go on.”
“Wait a minute, what are these amulets of war, and why wasn’t I let in on this little adventure?” Joxer said.
“What is your name?” Devon asked, shooting Joxer with a brown-eyed gaze.
“I’m Joxer the Mighty. I can defeat a hundred men single handedly.”
Xena tried to keep from frowning at the lie, but didn’t quite succeed, while Gabrielle covered her mouth with her hand trying to stop the laugh.
“Uh huh. Well then that’s why. We’re not trying to defeat everyone we face. At least not yet. We only want to go east. I don’t know anyone who could defeat a hundred men alone anyway.”
Gabrielle almost lost the control she had, and had to head toward the stream. Xena herself almost let a small chuckle escape, but managed to control it. “Are you calling me a liar?” Joxer said as his face turned red.
“No, I’m just saying you may exaggerate, a bit, about what you have done. I’m sure Xena here is an excellent warrior, but she may not be able to defeat one hundred men at once.”
Joxer said nothing, only ducked his head. He raised it again ready to come forward with another lie, but Devon was already speaking. “You can tell me in the morning, I think I need to get some sleep.”
The wannabe warrior stared blankly at the young man as he rolled into his bedroll. Xena stood up and headed toward the stream. “Hey, where are you going?”
“To find Gabrielle. Get some sleep Joxer. Dawn comes fast.”
Xena walked into the darkness leaving Joxer there staring dumbfoundedly after her. She found Gabrielle not far away sitting on some rocks and staring at the stars. “Enjoying the show?” Xena said, when she sat beside her.
Gabrielle smiled, “Yeah. But I’m thinking mostly.”
“‘Bout what?”
“Do you think we’ll actually pull this off?” Gabrielle answered with a question, which meant she was trying to figure things out, and that she would look to Xena for some of the answers.
The warrior silently ran her fingers over the leather bag at her side before answering. “I think we have a good chance. Especially with Hercules already having the peacemaker.”
Gabrielle nodded and went back to her study of the stars. “So did Joxer make a fool of himself?”
Xena laughed and threw her arm around the bard’s shoulders. “No, but it wasn’t for a lack of trying. Devon was quick not to let him speak too much.”
Leaning into Xena’s shoulder and wrapping an arm around her waist, Gabrielle looked out across the moon touched water. “I think I’m going to need a vacation after this. A long one. My back feels like it’s been used for a centaur footstool. Not to mention other parts.”
“Well if you would ride Argo more often, you wouldn’t feel like this. But I guess, since I like you, we can take a vacation. You deserve it.” Xena felt more than heard the bard giggling next to her. “Right now, I think we should try to sleep, like I told Joxer, dawn comes fast.”
Xena unwrapped herself from the bard and stood. Gabrielle stood and started to follow, before stopping and addressing the warrior again. “Xena, I don’t think we should leave him behind. Prevarien might find him. You know Joxer, he’ll do something stupid and get killed.”
Xena looked back at Gabrielle and realized she was right. The bard really had been thinking out here. “I guess you’re right. We’ll tell Devon in the morning, though I don’t think he’ll be too happy.”
“Do you think we can trust him Xena? I mean, I think we can, but I don’t really know a lot about him.”
“Well I know he’s definitely hiding something, and that it involves Ares, but it’s obvious he likes him about as much as we do. I’m saying we’ll find out soon enough.”
Making their way back to the campfire, they saw that both of their companions were asleep, and quietly got into their own bedrolls. They said their goodnights and it wasn’t long before Gabrielle was sleeping peacefully, but Xena stayed awake. Absently she fingered the leather bag that held the amulet, and stared through the trees at the stars. Now that they were stuck with Joxer, she knew she had to be on her guard even more. Joxer had a way of making things disastrous quickly, and she couldn’t let that happen. Sleep slowly took over her thoughts, and even in her sleep the bag was clutched tightly in a strong hand.
Chapter 4
For the second time that morning Joxer sang his obnoxious song as loud as he could. The first time Xena had been polite and asked him to stop. Now she had lost her patience. “Joxer, you’ll find it much harder to sing with my chakrum sticking out of your chest!”
He shut up quickly and gave Xena a wounded glance before finding something else to look at. ‘If he had been in my army, he would already be dead. I probably would have done it myself.’ Xena almost fell off Argo when the thought came to her mind. ‘Where did that come from? I haven’t had a thought like that in a very long time.’ Xena quietly pondered her situation, while she pushed Argo at a ground eating pace.
Gabrielle looked worriedly at Xena’s back, wondering herself why she had reacted the way she did. She finally dismissed it to stress, and went back to her own thoughts. Joxer, who was riding with Devon, had dismissed Xena’s warning, and now addressed the immortal in front of him. “So Devon, how many warriors have you defeated in battle?”
“More than you.” Devon said quietly.
“Really, and how do you know that?”
“Joxer, as an outsider, how do you feel about the human race?”
The question stopped any further comments from the wannabe warrior, who didn’t know whether it was an insult, or a play to his superior skills. He heard a snort come from Gabrielle and saw Xena give them an amused glance, and decided that it was the former.
“You’re lucky Xena was there when I first saw you, or you would have faced the wrath of Joxer the Mighty.”
“You’re lucky I don’t cut out your tongue right now for bragging so much. I don’t want to hear anymore.”
Joxer’s face turned red, but none of them could tell whether it was from anger or embarrassment. Before anything else could be said Xena motioned for them all to be quiet. Her hand shot out and caught an arrow right before it embedded itself into Gabrielle’s throat. Jumping from Argo, she drew her sword, and scanned the woods waiting for the next attack. Behind her Devon and Gabrielle jumped dismounted and readied their weapons. Joxer followed but his dismount looked more like a fall than anything. Devon glanced back, “Stay down mighty man, we don’t want you getting hurt.”
Joxer scowled but said nothing, only scanned the woods looking for the invisible enemy. With a wild yell they were quickly surrounded by ten men on each side. The advance scouts of Prevarien’s army. Letting loose with her war cry, Xena tore into the first to attack with fury, sending back the first wave with ease. Gabrielle and Devon stood back to back easily taking the first of their attackers as well, but things were going to get harder. Prevarien was smart before he took possession of the amulet of wisdom, but with it he definitely chose men who knew what they were doing. Learning quickly from the other’s mistakes, they had already started to form a circle around the four, and were slowly closing in. Gabrielle swiped at them with her staff, but they always stayed just out of reach.
Bending powerful legs, Xena jumped in the air and flipped over the men, landing easily behind them, and taking them out with a sweeping kick. It caused enough of a distraction for Gabrielle and Devon to knock down a few more of their own foes as well. Joxer had yet to hit a man, he only dodged and jumped out of the way of the flying bodies. Xena faced down the leader of the small squad, who was obviously the best. Xena blocked and parried each strike, and would launch her own offensive, which would be blocked as well. As Xena spun to avoid a thrust, the man drew a dagger from his tunic and stabbed out, raking a long, deep scratch across her chest. Pain lanced through the area but was quickly replaced by warmth. Looking down she saw the wound had ceased to bleed and was slowly knitting itself up. Her opponent grew wide-eyed as he stared at the wound slowly mending itself in front of him. Xena took the opportunity to attack, and with her enemy off balance was quickly victorious. The man crumpled to a heap after a quick smack to the head from the pommel of her sword.
Gabrielle ran forward, and stared at the now healing cut in awe. Devon came forward, pulling a protesting Joxer behind him. “Xena, what’s going on?” Gabrielle asked fearfully.
“I don’t know Gabrielle.”
“It’s the amulet of death Xena. It sees you as it wearer. Remember it will heal most wounds.” Devon explained as he brought Joxer upright.
Xena’s hand went down to the bag that held Hades’ creation. ‘The power this holds. I can only imagine what the others must do.’ Her thoughts almost kept her from hearing Devon’s next words.
“We have to go. That was an advance party, which means Prevarien won’t be far behind.” Nodding Xena went to Argo, and mounted quickly, then grabbed the bard’s arm and helped her on. With hardly any prodding Argo took off at a gallop, carrying them quickly to the east.
Iolaus stood in front of the temple and watched the road nervously. ‘Xena and Gabrielle should be here soon.’ He was excited and worried at the same time. Excited because he got to see Xena and Gabrielle again, and worried because of the danger they faced. Nike had come to them only a week ago, and asked them to come here for the peacemaker. They had done it without hesitation, and now that part of the mission was over Iolaus was starting to get nervous. It had almost been too easy. Most of these godly favors were real killers, with danger at every turn, and near impossible tasks. But with this one, he and Hercules had simply walked in and picked it up off the dais. Now they had a small assortment of warriors that Jason had sent to help protect the amulet.
Nike and Athena had sent them a priest who had the knowledge of how to use the peacemaker. However to use it he needed at least one other amulet in his possession. That’s where Xena came in. Iolaus had no doubt that Xena would get the amulet, he just hoped they could get it to them and still be in one piece.
The priest wouldn’t be prepared to use the amulets until tomorrow, claiming he had to memorize the incantations. Iolaus didn’t know about any of that, he only wanted his friends to arrive safely. The thundering of hooves brought a smile to his face, and he recognized the bay mare heading toward him. He ran down the stairs calling back over his shoulder, “Herc, they’re here!”
The woods framed the road on both sides, and ended in a clearing in front of the temple. Argo ran in under the strict control of Xena and stopped right before she ran into Iolaus. Looking up Iolaus let out the breath that had caught in his throat. “Nice control Xena.”
A wicked smile crossed the warrior’s face as she dismounted, and turned to help Gabrielle. Behind them Devon’s black was just entering the clearing. He stopped beside Argo and dismounted, making his way to Xena. Joxer fell from the back, and Iolaus grimaced at the crunch it made when he landed, but everyone else ignored him. Gabrielle gave Iolaus a hug, then stepped back. “Iolaus, I think you’re putting on weight.”
“What? I’m as fit as a . . .” He stopped when he saw the grin crossing Gabrielle’s face then grabbed her in another hug.
“I told him to stop eating all that pastry.” A deep voice said from the temple. Iolaus turned and shot Hercules a look then moved so he could greet the new arrivals. He gave Xena a quick hug, then turned to Gabrielle. He looked up when he heard the clank of Joxer’s mismatched armor and the dark dressed man coming to join them. He raised his eyebrows at Xena. “I’ll explain later. Hercules this is Devon. He’s here to help us. Nike sent him.”
Hercules smiled at the man and shook his hand. He nodded at Joxer then said, “Iolaus will you take care of the horses while I take them inside to rest and get something to eat?”
“Food!” Gabrielle said and was already off up the steps of the temple, then turned to see the amused faces of her friends. “Well, I haven’t had a cooked meal in two days. I’ll be surprised if my stomach hasn’t shrunk.”
“I doubt it.” Xena said then followed the bard into the temple.
Chapter 5
Hercules watched Xena who seemed more quiet than usual. He noticed that Gabrielle was watching her as well. Xena kept a hand near the leather bag at her side the whole time, like she was afraid someone was going to take it. Hercules knew that it held the amulet of death. When he had told her the priest wouldn’t be ready to use it until tomorrow she almost had a look of relief on her face. It had puzzled Hercules and he made a note to talk to Gabrielle about it later.
They had eaten quickly and had talked over their plans. When the amulets were rendered useless, they would still have to deal with Prevarien’s army. A dark look passed over Xena’s face when his name was mentioned, but no one said anything. It was obvious. They had a history. Xena explained why Joxer was with them when they first entered the temple. He understood, but knew that they would have to watch the man closely if they didn’t want him doing something stupid. Joxer had a good heart. He just wasn’t skilled enough to do what he wanted to do.
“I’m going to get some rest.” Xena said abruptly. Then stood and walked out. Iolaus and Devon who were deep in some conversation, barely looked up. Joxer had already left to get some sleep, which left Gabrielle staring after Xena with a puzzled look on her face. Hercules made his way over to her. “Gabrielle, you want to take a walk?”
Gabrielle nodded and followed Hercules outside. “I wanted to ask you about Xena. I don’t know how to say this, but does she seem different to you?”
“It all started when we got that amulet. I first noticed it when we met Joxer on the road. Her temper seemed to be getting the best of her. She usually isn’t very patient around Joxer anyway you know, but she’s never really threatened him. Not like she did this morning.”
Hercules listened to all Gabrielle had to say, and realized Xena’s attitude had changed abruptly since she came in possession of the amulet. He silently remembered the warlord Xena and suppressed a shiver. The thought scared him to death.
“Rider!” One of Jason’s warriors yelled from his post. Hercules and Gabrielle ran back to the front of the temple. The others came running out as the soldier rode into the square. “I have a message from Prevarien.”
“Then give it to us and leave.” Xena snapped.
“Prevarien says that you may have two of the amulets, but that won’t stop him. His army is strong without them. You have until morning to surrender the amulets and yourselves, or you will die.”
“Is that all?”
“No, there’s one more thing. Tell Gabrielle daddy says hello.”
A scream of rage flew from Xena’s throat, and she threw her breast dagger at the messenger. It sank deep into his shoulder. “Tell Prevarien that’s his answer, no get out of here before you really make me angry.”
The others stood in shocked silence until the messenger had ridden away then Hercules spoke, “Xena what did you think you were doing?!”
“I was speaking Prevarien’s language. I warned him last time, but this time he gets no warning. If I see him, I kill him.”
Gabrielle stepped in quickly, hoping to avoid a fight that would only make things worse. “Hercules, I’ll explain it all later. Xena why don’t you go inside, it’s almost sundown and we need to figure out what we’re going to do.” Xena looked at Gabrielle for several moments before finally nodding and going inside the temple. Gabrielle turned back to the rest of the group.
“Xena and Prevarien don’t like each other much, because of something he did to me.”
“What was that Gabrielle? I’ve got to know or this could end very badly for all of us.” Gabrielle went into the story, not leaving out a detail. When she was finished, the others were in a stunned silence.
Devon finally spoke. “All the amulets, persevere power. It’s very possible that the amulet is manipulating Xena with it. Power corrupts anyone who comes in contact with it. Xena’s especially prone, because a few years ago that’s all she wanted. I don’t know if she’ll try to keep the amulet when the time comes, but we have to expect that possibility, and we have to be ready. I’m sorry Gabrielle but if I have to take the amulet by force, I will.” Gabrielle nodded, but she didn’t like the idea. Unfortunately she couldn’t think of any other way.
Xena paced from one side of the room to the other. She was no longer angry. She was just confused. The feelings that had washed over her when she stabbed the messenger, were familiar, yet foreign at the same time. She had felt the old Xena reaching out like the embrace of an old lover, and Xena had enjoyed it. With the joy was fear however. The fear she had seen in Gabrielle’s eyes, the anger in Hercules’, and the sheer confusion in everyone else’s, had rocked her to the core. Gabrielle had only seen that side of her a few times. She didn’t want to show it to her again, but the sheer power of the amulet left her reeling, and wanting more. She wasn’t sure what she was going to do when it came time to give it over to the priest. Losing so much power would surely crush her, but keeping it would kill her soul.
Night fell over the temple that rested in the glade. It seemed peaceful until one looked closer. Warriors lined the temple walls watching for the advance of the army that rested not far away. Ares watched over the scene from Olympus, and had to laugh. Mortals were such playthings. The other gods had played right into his hands as well, and now he had a chance to unleash the amulets again. It felt good to hold that much power.
He knew it was time to stir things up down below and laughed heartily as he disappeared.
Prevarien snarled at the maps laid out before him. ‘Damn Xena. That will be the last time she threatens me.’
Prevarien jumped back when a large hand slammed itself down on top of the maps, and he looked right up into the face of Ares. “My lord. I wasn’t expecting you.”
“Exactly. I saw what happened today. I gave you the amulets because I thought you were the best for the job. Don’t tell me I was wrong.”
“No! You weren’t. It’s that warrior bitch. She has the last two amulets.”
“I know that Prevarien. You have power and wisdom. All she has is death and peace.”
“B..but the peacemaker, has the power to stop the other three.”
“I won’t come down to that. Attack at sunrise. Don’t give them a chance to use it. If Xena gets in your way, kill her. Better yet, kill her friends, that will crush her faster than any injury to herself.”
Prevarien bowed as the god of war disappeared.
Xena sharpened her sword while she sat on the end of her cot. Not far away sat the leather bag containing the amulet of death. Though her hands were busy with the task, one eye always stayed on it. Nothing was going to happen to it while she had it. Abruptly she brought her sword up in front of her, just seconds before Ares appeared.
“What are you doing here Ares? You weren’t invited.”
“I just came to see my favorite warrior princess. I see your getting ready for a war.”
“Only to stop Prevarien, and you, from any victory.”
Ares looked over and saw the leather bag that hung from the bedpost. “I see you still hold the amulet. Don’t you feel it’s power Xena? The pure control it has over life and death. With it you could be nearly invincible. With all the amulets you could be unstoppable. That’s much more than Prevarien. He’s good that is true, but you could be so much better.”
Xena scowled at the god before her. He was trying to persuade her again. He had yet to learn his lesson. “Leave now Ares, or I’ll tell Hercules you’re here. He’ll really be glad to see you.”
It was Ares’ turn to scowl. “Remember what I said Xena. With the amulets, anything you want can be yours.” He disappeared leaving Xena alone with her thoughts.
Devon walked through the trees, not really sure where he was going, just knowing that he had to get away from Joxer. The wannabe warrior had been following him around since they had arrived at the temple. Devon knew this was one mortal he could not stand. The others, especially Gabrielle and Iolaus, he had found entertaining. But Joxer had been hounding him all day to spar, or teach him some new moves. When Devon had finally agreed, he had taken Joxer down quickly, and walked away.
Even after twenty years alone he found that he did enjoy their company. Even Joxer’s who always seemed to be falling down or tripping. He also noticed the affection for Gabrielle that was evident in the man’s eyes. She didn’t notice it herself, but it was obvious nothing would come of it if she did. She seemed more suited to Iolaus than Joxer. Devon knew that kind of love could be dangerous in it’s own way.
A bright flash of light stopped him in his tracks. Ares took the light’s place. “Well if it isn’t the little saboteur walking around by himself.”
“Go away Ares, before I decide I don’t like you.”
“I think you’ve already decided that. What are you still mad at me? Come on that was two hundred years ago. Can’t we let bygones be bygones? I mean we have so much in common.”
“Like what? I don’t see anything that I have in common with you. Except that we both hate each other.”
“Well, you like to destroy things. Preferably my temples, which I’m not very happy about. You destroyed my favorite one.”
“Good.”
“Look let’s make a deal. You leave right now, and I won’t have Prevarien kill all the mortals. You’re immortal anyway. Do you want to spend the rest of eternity in slavery?”
Devon turned on the god with his eyes full of fire. Two hundred years of rage formed his words. “You made me Ares and have me enslaved already! I can’t die, because of you! Your damn amulets were the cause of this and I’m going to see that it never happens again! So go on back to Olympus, and prepare for defeat. Because when I’m done down here, I’m coming for you.”
Ares looked at the immortal with pure hatred. “You do that, and I’ll make sure you spend eternity in Tartaurus for your crimes. It won’t be peaceful as death. You’re immortal. You can’t die. But you can spend eternity in pieces. That I promise you.”
The war god was gone before Devon could reply.
Gabrielle walked quietly down the hall to Xena’s room. Stopping at the curtain used as the door, she listened carefully to make sure the warrior was asleep. Not hearing any sounds she peaked her head in to see Xena laying on her back, with her eyes closed. “Xena?” Gabrielle whispered.
When no movement or sound came from the warrior Gabrielle fully entered the room, and sat quietly on a chair. She watched the warrior’s slow breathing. Quietly she spoke, “I know you would never give me the chance to say this when you’re awake, but I can now. I’m scared for you Xena. I see the darkness taking over even if you don’t. I would rather die, than see that happen. But if it does my soul will be destroyed right along with yours, and there’s nothing I can do to stop it. I don’t know how to help you warrior, so I guess it’s up to you to help yourself. Whatever you decide I will always be by your side. I love you.”
Gabrielle let tears fall down her face. She watched the warrior for a while before quietly leaving the room. Xena sat up when she left and looked after her, before falling back to the bed and covering her face with her hands.
Chapter 6
Dawn came fast, as did Prevarien’s army. Jason’s warriors called the alarm just before sunrise sending them all into a frenzy of action. Twenty-five against two hundred weren’t good odds, but it was the best they could do. Xena, Gabrielle, Hercules, Iolaus, Devon, and Joxer stood on the stairs of the temple and watched with dread. “What do we do now?” Gabrielle asked.
“We use the peacemaker. It’s the only way.” Hercules replied.
“The priest isn’t ready yet. We have to hold them off until he is.” Iolaus said from his side.
“Then I guess I’ll have to buy him some time. I set up a few surprises last night.” Devon said.
Taking a torch, he walked into the trees. Prevarien’s army was already on their way. “Stay back until I give you the signal.” Devon called over his shoulder, before he disappeared into the woods.
“What signal.” Hercules asked.
Gabrielle smiled and answered, “You’ll know it when you see it.”
Minutes later, a loud explosion echoed across the temple walls. Three more followed, and Xena looked back at them. “That’s the signal to let’s go.”
What followed was carnage. All they could afford to leave behind were five men. Those five would guard the temple from any who got past the others. The rest went into the woods to wait for Prevarien’s army. Soon the sounds of battle and dying men reached the ears of all. The battle had truly begun.
Xena cut and slashed her way through the men as they came. It seemed endless, but she had the advantage. The amulet of death still hung at her waist, any injury she received was quickly taken care of by its power, and battle lust had quickly taken over Xena’s senses. She was only remotely aware of her companions, and very aware of the power given her by the amulet. It was indirectly leading her in a path to the others, power and wisdom, and straight to Prevarien.
Gabrielle followed in Xena’s wake, taking on any who were missed by the big warrior. She had decided to stay as close to Xena as she could. It was her own kind of protection. She knew where Xena was headed and she feared what the result might be. Devon had rejoined the group shortly after they had entered the woods and was now keeping Joxer out of trouble. All around the ground was littered with the dead, some friend, some foe. The pure destruction would have gotten to Gabrielle if she had let it, but she couldn’t, she had more pressing things to attend to.
Iolaus and Hercules were cutting their own path through Prevarien’s men. Their only concern was to take as many down as they could, but they were starting to tire out. Prevarien had chosen his men wisely. They were harder to defeat than any normal army, and the power of the amulets behind them made it even worse.
Xena stabbed through another man, and knew she was getting close. She was aware of Gabrielle behind her, protecting her back, but she had yet to acknowledge it. She was driven only to one thing. Bursting through a knot of trees she came to the clearing and saw Prevarien there sitting on top of his horse. He smiled widely at her. “Xena, so glad to see you. Sorry you won’t be around much longer.”
Gabrielle came through the trees and barely had enough time to jump out of the way of Prevarien’s horse. It charged straight at Xena, who jumped out of the way at the last minute. Gabrielle caught sight of movement off in the trees and instantly recognized Ares’ smug face. Her anger built as she watched the smiling god. Hercules and Iolaus arrived at the clearing in time to see Gabrielle charge the god and land a quick blow. Ares looked on in surprise, then waved his hand at the bard knocking her backwards into the trees.
The battle between Prevarien and Xena continued. Xena had finally managed to knock him from his horse, but the battle on the ground was even worse. Xena had immediately noticed his strength had doubled, and so had his skill. Prevarien had landed several blows only to have them heal right in front of him. The fight was a stand still, neither opponent could gain the advantage. Falling back from Xena, Prevarien saw the bard coming out of the trees form where she had been thrown. The half-god and his friend were watching in anticipation. He saw his chance. “Kill them!” He screamed.
Warriors charged from their cover in the trees. Gabrielle heard the charge but her eyes were darting between the god of war and Xena. She almost didn’t feel it when the spear tore into her side.
Iolaus looked over when he heard Gabrielle’s cry, and looked in horror at the spear sticking out. “Herc!”
“I see it! Get over there. I’ll take care of these guys.” Hercules took out three with one punch before turning to the next five. “Come on boys, who wants some of this.”
Xena saw the bard go down as well. Her anger raged, giving her strength that had laid hidden for three years. She pounced on Prevarien, sending him backwards with a flurry of strikes. Prevarien’s sword flew from his hand after a sharp downward strike from Xena and he could only stare as she sent him to the ground. She stood over him with her sword ready to end his life. He heard Ares laughter. “Do it Xena! Then take the amulets, let all that power be yours!”
Xena eyes seemed to glow in anticipation of the kill. She brought the sword back, and readied the killing blow when a quiet voice stopped her. “Xena.”
‘Gabrielle?’ Xena turned around and saw the bard sitting in Iolaus’s arms. Joxer was behind him trying to hide his tears. Blood flowed from the bard’s mouth, and one hand was pressed to the wound in her side, as if trying to hold her life in. Xena looked back over her shoulder at Prevarien, who was trying to crawl away. She stopped him with one kick, then reached down and took the amulets. She felt the power flow into her body. Her body urged to fight, to take Prevarien’s army and destroy everything in her path, but one look back into the bard’s pleading eyes stamped out that flame before it could become an inferno.
She ran forward and pushed Iolaus away. Desperately she tried to find a way to save her bard’s life. Gabrielle’s breathing was shallow, and fast. Both knew that she didn’t have much time left. “Xena.”
“Shh. Gabrielle don’t talk.” The bard smiled and reached a hand up to the warrior’s cheek. Xena felt how cold the skin was and knew she was losing the bard. Her heart cried, as she remembered what the bard had said the night before. She looked to the amulets in her hand, and cursed herself for becoming obsessed with their power. ‘Power. Ares said the amulets could give me whatever I wanted. The amulet of death.’ Xena’s brain gave her the answer she was looking for.
She looked down at her best friend, racked with pain, and dying, and knew she had to try. She tore open the leather bag at her side and took out the amulet. ‘Please let this work.’ She prayed to whoever was listening. She pressed the amulet into Gabrielle’s side, and felt the power warming into her hands. “Please don’t let her die!” She was unaware that she had said the words aloud.
She closed her eyes and willed the amulet to work. Finally, the warmth disappeared. Xena opened her eyes to see the wound closed. They flashed to the bard’s face. Slowly her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled up at Xena. “I knew you would figure out something.”
Xena laughed and pulled the bard into her arms. She was relieved to feel the bard’s arms tighten around her. The warrior didn’t let go until she remember Prevarien and Ares. She looked up to see Hercules already taking care of Ares with a punch that sent him half way to Olympus but Prevarien was gone.
Prevarien ran through the trees dodging branches as he went. Xena would be sorry she let him live, he would make sure of that. He let out a startled yell when he saw the fist coming toward his face.
Devon stepped out from behind the tree, and glared down at Prevarien. “Mortals.”
He picked up the unconscious man and headed back to the temple.
Chapter 7
The six of them stood in front of the temple waiting for the goddess of victory. As soon as the battle was over, the priest had performed his ceremony. Now the amulets were useless to anyone. Gabrielle stood beside Xena, still pale from the events of the day before, but otherwise ready for anything. The warrior had refused to leave her side the entire night, and now stood with a protective arm around her shoulders.
Nike appeared without the fanfare one would expect from a god. One minute she wasn’t there the next she was. Hercules handed over the amulets, “We won’t be missing these.” He said.
Nike laughed. “Neither will I. You all did well. The gods couldn’t have done better themselves.”
Nike took the amulets one by one threw them. Starting with the peacemaker, it was thrown into the air and disappeared in a shower of blue sparks. Each went in the same way until finally the amulet of power was left. Nike threw it in the air, but instead of blue sparks, a portal opened that Hercules knew all to well. The amulet disappeared inside. Laughter from the trees brought everyone forward to see Ares. “It’s not over.” The god of war disappeared leaving behind vicious laughter.
The sovereign watched the portal close as quickly as it came. Slowly he walked over to the object that had fallen from it. Picking up the amulet from the dirt, he felt the power it gave off. Standing up and looking to the grey sky, he whispered, “Finally.”
THE END
