"Gabrielle's Destiny ~ Part 3"

**

Xena stopped walking outside the campsite, just out of sight. Before she could call his name a brilliant flash of light appeared and with it the god of war.

"I've been expecting you after that rude interruption," stated Ares.

"I heard about that. So sorry," answered Xena chuckling.

"We need to work on our timing."

"Funny that's exactly what she said. What do you want with her?" demanded Ares.

"Isn't it obvious? I'm her obsession. She's just like her father that way."

"I don't believe you. You always have an ulterior motive."

"You know Xena if it wasn't for Caesar's obsession over you she never would have been born."

"What are you babbling about?" asked Xena frustrated.

"Hope took advantage of Caesar's obsession. That's how Destiny was conceived.

"Would you say something that makes sense?" growled Xena.

"It's really very simple. Even when Caesar was planning your destruction he continued to dream of you in his bed every night. Hope's powers were very strong and she was looking for a sire for the second destroyer. She wanted a mortal since our union didn't work out very well."

"That's an understatement," interrupted Xena.

Ares gave her a disdainful look. "Anyway she decided on Caesar. Shortly before he was murdered on the Ides of March she changed forms. She appeared as you in his dream. She planned to kill him after the deed was done but unfortunately Callisto woke him up before she could plunge the dagger in him. So you see in a way you were a part of her conception. Maybe that's why you feel so maternally every time you're around her."

"That's just sick," replied Xena furrowing her eyebrows in disgust.

"But very successful," stated Ares.

**

Destiny dressed in silence, careful not to disturb Gabrielle listening as Ares kept Xena occupied. She picked up her sword quietly and walked stealthily toward her horse and saddled him. She checked one last time to make sure Xena was unaware of what she was doing then led her stallion slowly away from the campsite. Once she was out of earshot she mounted the steed and pressed him into a gallop.

**

Gabrielle opened her eyes taking in her surrounding, freezing when she spotted herself looking back at her.

"Hello mother," stated Hope her voice low and gravely.

Gabrielle jumped to her feet panic gripping her senses. "Where am I?"

"Relax mother. This is a dreamscape. I'm not here to hurt you. I need your help.

Gabrielle looked at her suspiciously. "You're out to destroy the world. What could you possibly want from me?"

"I don't care about any of that. I need you to save Destiny."

"From Dahak?" asked Gabrielle.

"From herself. I don't have much time to explain. Destiny has left your camp. She's gone to kill Eve."

"Xena's daughter? Why would she want to kill her?"

"Ares sent her. If she kills Eve Dahak will come into the world and she will live."

"Ares is working with you?" shouted Gabrielle excitedly. "I don't get it. Why would you tell me this? Why would you want me to stop her? This is exactly what you want."

"No mother it's not what I want. Killing Eve will destroy her. I can't let that happen. I need you to trust me."

"How do expect me to trust you after everything you have done to Xena and me?"

"Because you know about the bond between a mother and a daughter. You did love me at one time didn't you?"

"With all my heart," answered Gabrielle without hesitation.

"She's not like me. I've done everything I can think of to turn her toward her dark side and nothing has worked."

"I've seen some of the things she has done Hope. I think you have succeeded."

"No. What you have seen is the warrior I created. Everything she does has been for me. Please we don't have much time just let me explain."

"Go on," replied Gabrielle.

"I raised her to be the greatest warrior in the world. I sent her to Rome to fight along side of Livia, a warrior with a ruthless reputation. I thought some of her would rub off on Destiny. Instead Livia softened. The two became very close so I sent Ares to mentor Livia. I wanted to break them apart. I suggested the raid on an amazon village knowing how loyal Destiny was to the nation. I had hoped she would revolt against Livia. Instead Destiny was determined to change her so on my word Ares had Livia sell her into slavery to the gladiators."

"How could you do that to your own daughter?" Gabrielle asked her eyes filled with horror.

"I wanted to get her mad enough to tap into her dark side. After two years of fighting she began showing mercy to her opponents. Augustus had always been jealous of her so it was easy to convince him to order her death and tell Destiny it was at Livia's command. I thought this would bring out her rage. With that rage she would have been capable of saving herself but she never got mad. Her heart was broken and she gave up. By the time I arrived she had already been crucified.

It was then that she learned about her true parentage. Dahak healed her and we returned to the amazon village. She became very quiet excepting her birthright. Since then she has followed my orders with the promise that the nation would be spared. Everything she does is to protect the amazons nothing more."

"She's killed hundreds maybe thousands of people. How will killing one more destroy her?"

"She doesn't know that Eve is really Livia. If Xena had to kill you to save the world do you think she could do it?"

Gabrielle stood silently considering the question, one hand under her chin. "If it was for the greater good she could do it."

"Do you really think that? Let's say she could kill you. How would that effect her?" Gabrielle stood quietly not answering. "Mother it would destroy her. She would rather be dead then kill you even if it saved the world. Destiny still feels the same for Livia after everything that has happened to her."

"I don't believe you. After every thing you have done to her how can you expect me to believe that Destiny is more important then you and your father's plans?"

"I raised Destiny to be strong. I didn't want to love her. Destiny has always been loyal to me. After the crucifixion she became a ruthless leader. She used men to her advantage. She killed in battle after battle. She lusted after power and was invincible doing every thing right in my eyes to achieve our goal. Then a funny thing happened to me. I fell in love with my daughter."

Hope's expression changed dramatically as she continued to speak. The usual cold dark stare in her eyes faded replaced by the gentleness of a mother's love.

"Every day my love for her grew and every day the love inside of her heart disappeared bit by bit. I would walk by her tent after a battle and listen to her cry while everyone else in the camp was celebrating our victory. The only thing worse in her life then learning she wasn't Xena's daughter was learning that you were not really her mother. Eve will be wearing a mask. If she doesn't take that mask off Destiny will kill her. Please don't let that happen."

"You really do love her?" stated Gabrielle.

"Yes but you must hurry or it will be too late."

"Why would Eve conceal her identity? That doesn't make sense."

"If Destiny kills Eve it will destroy Dahak. She's switched sides."

"I knew there had to be something in it for you. You tried to trick me."

"Do you really think Xena is willing to sacrifice her own daughter? I know I'm not."
"It would crush her," answered Gabrielle contemplating her decision.

"There's no time to think about it mother. If you don't stop her I will destroy every thing you love. If you save my daughter you'll still have a chance against Dahak. Now go."

**

Gabrielle woke up and looked over at the empty bedroll then searched for Xena who appeared to be gone. "Xena!" she yelled as she leaped onto her feet and ran toward the horses. "Xena!"

"Looks like someone's calling for you," stated Ares. With a flash of brilliant light he was gone.

Xena ran back to the campsite and saw Gabrielle saddling one of the horses. Taking a quick inventory she realized that Destiny and the white stallion were both gone. "Where is she?" she yelled running toward Gabrielle.

"No time to explain. Saddle up," answered the bard. Xena grabbed the other saddle and threw it over the horse.

"What happened?" asked Xena as she continued to work.

"She's gone to the temple of Eli," answered Gabrielle.

"Why is she," started Xena. "Eve's there," she added her eyes wide open with terror.

"She's gone to kill Eve."

**

Destiny arrived in front of the temple about an hour later. She dismounted her stallion and walked toward the structure searching for signs of life. As she neared the temple a woman emerged from behind the doors dressed in a short sleeve maroon battle dress covered by silver armor, her face covered by a silver mask concealing her identify.

Eve walked steadily down the steps and through the gates stopping in front of Destiny her sword drawn. "You must be Destiny," stated Eve using low monotone sound to disguise her voice.

"How do I know you are Eve?" asked Destiny.

"Some would say this is a suicide mission. I wouldn't be here if I wasn't Eve."

"Fair enough," replied Destiny drawing her sword. "We were born for this moment. One of us must die."

"It's for the greater good," interjected Eve.

"So they say," responded Destiny delivering the first blow.

Eve kept both hands on the hilt of her sword deflecting the first strike, the force sending sparks into the air. Destiny continued on the offense attacking with powerful thrusts, each one blocked by the masked warrior. Both women continued to parry and block searching for an opening.

Both blades locked as the warriors stared at each other both hands around their swords. "You're better then I expected. Nice moves," stated Destiny catching her breath. Both warriors spun around in opposite directions their swords clashing against one another. The battle raged on for several minutes in the cool night air, both gladiators evenly matched.

With blades locked again Destiny spun around using both hands to strike near Eve's head. Eve ducked under the blow responding with a low swing that Destiny jumped over. Eve moved backward anticipating the next move. Destiny moved forward faking a kick with her left foot then following with a right front blade kick to her opponent's chest throwing her into the gate.

Destiny lunged forward kicking the sword out of Eve's hand. Standing over her Destiny took one final look into her opponent's eyes then using both hands around the hilt she lifted her sword high above Eve's head ready to strike the final blow through her chest.

"NO!" Gabrielle's cry pierced the silence as she thundered toward Destiny on her horse a couple of lengths in front of Xena.

Destiny hesitated looking back as Gabrielle and Xena charged toward her.

"The mask!" yelled Gabrielle. "Make her take off the mask. She isn't who you think she is!"

Destiny looked down at Eve growling. Bending over she laid down her weapon and reached over to remove the mask. Eve moved away from her holding the mask to her face with both hands. Destiny reached down and jabbed both hands into her neck applying the pinch, surprised when it seemed to work. Reflexively Eve removed her hands from her face grabbing her neck, the source of her pain.

Destiny ripped the mask from her head staring into the deep blue eyes of the woman she once called her friend. "Livia," she whispered softly her body trembling from the realization of what she might have done. Slowly she stood up paralyzed with emotion then bent back down and removed the pinch her eyes never leaving Eve's. She heard the whooshing sound of Xena's chakram passing over her, narrowly missing her head by a fraction of an inch and embedding itself into the wall.

She stood and turned around walking forward, looking blankly at the warrior princess who was now past Gabrielle. Xena pulled her horse to a stop and somersaulted into Destiny, powerful legs throwing the small woman backwards. Destiny fell to the ground landing near Eve, the tall dark warrior on top of her growling as she grabbed onto Destiny's armor and hauled her up to her feet.

"Stop!" yelled Gabrielle bringing her horse to a halt and dismounting.

Xena ignored the plea-punching Destiny in the face with a powerful right hand. Destiny staggered back absorbing a second blow to her stomach. "You tried to kill my daughter!" yelled Xena her face filled with rage.

"I told you not to trust me," spat Destiny defiantly.

Xena struck out with a rising elbow to her face snapping the young woman's head back. Destiny stumbled to the ground. Gabrielle reached Xena and tackled her before she could do anymore damage. "Stop! She couldn't kill Livia! I won't let you kill her," she growled lying on top of Xena.

Destiny picked herself up from the ground walking blindly from the two women on the ground. Xena pushed Gabrielle off and jumped up to confront Destiny swinging a powerful right hook followed by a left, right and another left. This time Destiny blocked each swing. "I'm not a punching bag," hissed Destiny defending herself. Xena followed with a succession of kicks each one blocked by the small brunette, both women moving with lightning speed as they battled. Xena found an opening and kicked Destiny with another powerful front blade kick to the stomach only to be met with a kick from Destiny that landed on her stomach. Both women flew backward several feet from the impact.

Gabrielle ran over to Xena holding her sais in front of her. Xena jumped to her feet only to met by a powerful rising elbow to her chin from her partner. The force sent her back to the ground.

"Stop Xena! You don't know the whole story!" cried Gabrielle as Eve moved behind her.

Destiny picked herself up from the ground and slowly walked away from the group ignoring the cold steely glare of the warrior princess.

"She tries to kill my daughter and you choose now to defend her!" spat Xena watching Destiny walk toward her horse.

"Killing Eve would have destroyed Dahak," defended Gabrielle.

"She's right mother," added Eve. "Had I been able to kill her I could've defeated Dahak."

Xena jumped to her feet her eyes still resting on the small brunette as Destiny mounted her horse. Gabrielle put her hand against Xena's chest. "Let her go. It was a fair fight."

Xena took several deep breaths trying to calm her anger as Destiny rode off. "How do you know this Gabrielle?"

"Hope came to my in my sleep. She warned me."

"She wanted you to stop my daughter from killing her."

"You're wrong. She wanted me to stop Destiny from killing Eve."

"Why are you defending Hope?"

"Think about it Xena. Who was killing who when we rode up?"

"She would have killed Eve if I hadn't stopped her," answered Xena.

"Get over yourself. Boy you can be blind when it comes to your daughter," hissed Gabrielle.

"Listen to her mother. She's right. I wore a mask to hide my identity. When she recognized me she took the pinch off. If she hadn't you would have killed her with your chakram."

Xena shook her head trying to sort out the details of the night. "So your god offered you as a sacrifice to destroy Dahak?"

"Yes mother. That's why I was brought into this world."

"No more. I want to talk to this god," growled Xena.

"Mother please don't question his actions," answered Eve.

"Look there's got to be a way of defeating Dahak without sacrificing our children," interjected Gabrielle. "I need to find her before she does something crazy."

"Go ahead. We'll catch up," replied Eve.

**

Gabrielle took off on her horse in hot pursuit of the small brunette. She found her trail and followed for several minutes before reaching the edge of the forest and finding the white stallion. Gabrielle followed the footsteps leading toward the trees.

Gabrielle slowed up cautiously looking into every tree and behind every bush, her sais in her hand in a ready position. "Destiny," she called out. The forest was deathly quiet as Gabrielle stopped, listening for any sound to break the silence. A rustle of leaves alerted her to possible trouble on her left. Before she could react a tiger pounced from a low lying branch throwing it's body against the bard and sending her to the ground, a fierce roar emitting from it's throat.

Instinctively Gabrielle slugged the beast on the back of its head with the handle of her weapon. "Owe," growled the beast raising a paw to the back of it's head as it slid off the small blonde changing back into it's natural form of her granddaughter. "A tiger pounces on you and all you do is hit it on the head. Are you suicidal?" hissed Destiny still rubbing her head.

Gabrielle stared in amazement as the tiger transformed into her granddaughter. "Tigers aren't native to Greece," answered the bard.

"Oh. I didn't think of that," replied Destiny sheepishly.

"What did you expect me to do?" asked Gabrielle picking herself up from the ground as she spoke.

"I expected you to kill me. Aren't those things you carry sharp?" asked Destiny pointing to the sais in her hands.

"What good would that have done?"

"I don't know. At least you would have had the pleasure of doing it. Consider it a going away gift."

"I finally see the good in you and you try to trick me into killing you. Thank you for your thoughtfulness."

"What good? I could have stopped Dahak tonight if I had just killed Eve and I couldn't even do that. So I ran. Damn amazons. If they had just followed orders."

"Why did you spare Eve?"

Destiny looked away from Gabrielle her eyes filling with tears as she sat deep in thought. "Because she's Livia," she responded her voicing shaking with emotion. "My life is forfeit now. Dahak won't think to look for me in the forest and I can live out my life as an animal."

"If you run away from your problems now you'll always be running."

"Fine with me," stated Destiny picking herself up from the ground. "See ya." Destiny disappeared into the nearest tree leaving Gabrielle on the ground. Moments later a majestic gold and black leopard jumped onto the ground near the small blonde.

"This isn't going to solve anything," Gabrielle shouted at the leopard.

"Works for me," answered Destiny. Just then a roar was heard through the bushes. Gabrielle and Destiny turned around staring into the golden eyes of a wild leopard. Gabrielle stood in a defensive position as the leopard Destiny walked over to the new arrival. "Relax he won't hurt you." The beast walked up to Destiny nuzzling her under the chin. Gabrielle watched stunned as the leopard continued to nuzzle Destiny, nipping her on the neck then walking around her to sniff her tail as Destiny jumped from the touch. Gabrielle laughed as the amorous leopard continued to fondle his new love.

Xena and Eve heard the commotion and walked up to Gabrielle, standing behind her watching the scene unfold as Gabrielle attempted to explain between chuckles.

"Whoa enough big boy," cried Destiny backing away in circles while the leopard followed her scent. Seconds later he pounced on her licking her face. Destiny struggled to get up only to be tackled from behind as the aggressive animal attempted to mate with her. "Hey, stop that, help," cried Destiny struggling to get up before the animal could accomplish his mission. "Gabrielle!" cried Destiny desperate for some help. The bard walked behind the leopard striking it on the back of the head with her weapon using all of her force. The animal fell forward onto Destiny who pushed him off with her front paws and rolled away, changing back into her natural form as she moved.

"Was I entertaining?" yelled Destiny laying on the ground. She looked up to see Xena and Eve laughing heartily along with Gabrielle. All three nodded in unison.

Destiny growled as she picked herself up off the ground, trying hard to hold onto her angry expression. A grin formed on her lips as she thought of the absurdity of the situation. "Fine. That idea sucked," she stated smiling. "Son of a Bacchae. Just my luck I get attacked by a horny leopard," she added stifling a giggle.

"I thought you were going to have kittens," quipped Gabrielle laughing so hard she was doubled over as she spoke.

"Now there's a story for your great, great grand kids," added Destiny laughing.

After several long moments the laughter subsided. "Why did you bring her here?" asked Destiny pointing toward Eve.

Xena stepped in front of her daughter, her hand hovering over the chakram to protect Eve if needed.

"Relax Xena. I couldn't kill her in the heat of battle. I'm not gonna do it now. Still wanna kill me?"

"No. And I'm not going to let either of you two die," responded Xena. "It's time we were all on the same side."

"You know the horny leopard is looking pretty good right now," quipped Destiny.

"Why not stand up and fight back Destiny?" asked Eve.

"Fight for what? Dahak will come into this world and he will destroy me. At least when I was on his side I had a chance."

"A chance for what?" asked Gabrielle.

"At peace," answered Destiny.

"In a world without love?" asked Eve.

"Don't you dare talk to me about your god Eve. What makes you think he is any better than Dahak?" spat Destiny walking toward her.

"Because he allows free will and promotes love not violence."

"Back up Eve. Let's talk about your god. Where was he when Mephistopheles unleashed hell on earth killing your grandmother? Oh that's right he sent his archangels to send your mother down to hell for her efforts when she defeated him. Then he offered you up as a sacrifice to that whacko Caligula. What exactly was that for except to make you a martyr in his name?"

"Every action has a purpose. It is not for me to question why. He is the god of love."

"Is that why he sent Michael to kill Aphrodite? Now there's a scary deity spreading all of that love around has got be a threat to him. Even now he has offered you again as a sacrifice. Why did he give Xena a child only to take her away from you? Where was he when the amazons were dying on the beach because of a crazed demigod?"

Eve stood in front of Destiny speechless as she continued her ranting. "Where was he when I was enslaved? He was up there smiling waiting to get his revenge on me. And why? You knew me Eve. What did I ever do to deserve his wrath? And now you guys want me to go against my mother for your god. So he can continue his eternal punishment?" Destiny paused for a moment to catch her breath. Her body trembled as she spoke, pale green eyes clouding with moisture as tears began to run down her cheek. "I can't do that," she added choking as the words came out.

Gabrielle walked toward her granddaughter placing a consoling hand on her shoulder. "They have really brain washed you against Eli's god haven't they?" asked Eve.

Destiny's face turned red with rage as she stomped away from Eve pacing. "Have you heard anything I've said? No one brain washed me. Your god now has final judgement over me because I betrayed Dahak. Newsflash. He's already passed judgement on me!" yelled Destiny.

"Destiny calm down," cried Gabrielle grabbing the distraught woman and holding her. "How can we help you if we don't know what's going on?"

"Destiny what happened to you when they brought you down from the cross?" asked Xena.

Destiny ran her hands through her hair, pale green eyes staring blankly forward as the memories came crashing down. "They killed me," she whispered choking the tears back.

Gabrielle looked at her intensely, one hand brushing away the tears from her cheeks. "How," she asked softly. "Go slowly."

"I was taken off the cross and laid on the ground. My arms and legs were tied with rope, each rope leading to a horse."

"By the gods," whispered Gabrielle her mouth wide open in horror as she listened to the story. Eve and Xena stood behind her with similar expressions.

"My arms were already dislocated. I had lost a lot of blood from the wounds and my legs were shattered. I hear that sound over and over in my dreams. Then I scream and scream as the sound of hooves grows fainter and fainter. I open my eyes and a Roman soldier stands over me with a sword then darkness." Destiny burst into tears as she completed the story. "I wasn't afraid to die."

"What happened next?" asked Xena walking over to the small blonde and brunette, one hand around Destiny's shoulder.

"That's when I met Hades. He said he had a special place for me. A place that would make Tartarus look like the Elysian Fields. I asked him why. That's when he told me about Hope and Dahak. I thought I was the daughter of the great amazon queen Gabrielle. I thought I had lived with honor." Destiny stopped to catch her breath for a moment. "He told me that I was to spend eternity in hell because I was the granddaughter of Dahak. For three days they tortured me."

"What did they do to you?" choked Gabrielle tears streaming down her cheeks as she listened to the story.

"I was to relive my death over and over for eternity. For three days I could feel every moment of pain after I was taken down from that cross. That's my eternity." Destiny broke completely down sobbing into the shoulder of her grandmother as she stroked the fine strands of dark hair. Gabrielle buried her head into Destiny's shoulders crying with her as Xena and Eve looked on silently, tears running down their faces.

Destiny looked up at Xena with pleading eyes. "Why didn't you kill me in battle? At least Dahak would have protected me."

Xena gazed down at the small brunette speechless, unsure of what to say. "She didn't kill you because she saw what I couldn't see," interrupted Gabrielle.

"That doesn't help now does it?" stated Destiny. "If I fight Dahak and lose I will suffer the same fate."

"You don't know that," interrupted Eve.

"Do you know differently? Can you guarantee me that?" hissed Destiny.

"I assure you that you will be judged fairly," answered Eve.

"And what will you be doing when I am fighting Eve? Watching the battle from a distance spouting your words of love? I'll make you a deal. If you fight I will fight."

"No. Eve has laid down her sword. She fights with words now," interrupted Xena.

"Still willing to sacrifice Gabrielle's kids and not your own?" hissed Destiny. Pale blue eyes dark with anger stared back at the small woman for several moments as the tension thickened. "Besides you held up a sword pretty good against me tonight. Come on Eve. I saw the fire in your eyes when we were fighting. It's in your blood."

"She's right mother. If she can fight so can I," answered Eve.

"But Eve," started Xena.

"No buts. It's my decision," finished Eve.

"Good. Then it's settled," replied Destiny.

**

There was a fine mist in the air at dawn when Xena woke up. The fire had been extinguished from the moisture of the evening. Xena walked quietly around the campsite trying not to wake the others.

She smiled at the sight of Destiny sharing her bedroll with her daughter. She had been very shocked earlier when the small brunette made the offer to compensate for the lack of blankets to keep everyone warm in the cold night. Now Destiny lay peacefully on her right side facing Eve, her left arm draped around her daughter.

Xena turned around stepping on a branch and snapping it in two, the noise waking Destiny. Destiny's eyes grew wide when she realized her arm was around Eve. She withdrew the limb quickly looking back at the source of the noise, staring into the twinkling eyes of the warrior princess.

Carefully she slipped out of the covers and stood up. "You hush. Don't you say a word," growled Destiny pointing back at Eve.

"What?" asked Xena innocently.

"I was cold. I like to cuddle. That is all," she hissed.

"I didn't say a word," defended Xena.

"Keep it that way. You say anything I'll kill ya."

"Again I see the family resemblance. Are you always this cheery in the morning?" asked Xena chuckling.

"I'm hungry and I'm tired," replied Destiny a pouty expression on her face.

"We'd better go kill something then," stated Xena walking over to Gabrielle and waking her gently. Reluctantly Gabrielle woke up using one hand to shade her eyes from the early morning sun.

"Is it morning already?" inquired the bard.

"Yes," answered Xena softly. "We're gonna go catch breakfast. You and Eve get the fire going." Gabrielle nodded slowly rising from her bedroll. Xena walked over to Destiny who was standing ready holding her bow in her hand. "Are you going to just stand there or are you going to wake her?" asked Xena pointing at her daughter.

Destiny glared at Xena a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "If you insist." Destiny walked over to Eve and leaned down. "EVE WAKE UP!" she shouted.

Eve leaped from the bedroll looking around the camp disoriented as Destiny jumped backward out of reach laughing.

"Oh you are evil," quipped Xena trying desperately not to laugh at her daughter's discomfort.

Eve shook her head growling and glared at Destiny. "Just like old times isn't it?" asked Eve.

"Yeah except I used to do it as a joke. Today I just wanted to piss you off," answered Destiny raising her eyebrows and grinning like a Cheshire cat. "Now would be a good time to leave the camp Xena," she added walking toward the tall warrior leaving Eve behind to stew over the incident. "You go that way," Destiny started pointing to the north. "And I'll go that way. Last one back gets to skin the rabbits."

"It's a deal," answered Xena shaking hands with Destiny. Both women took off running in opposite directions while Eve and Gabrielle set out to collect firewood.

"Gabrielle do you think Destiny will ever forgive me?"

"It's gonna take a lot of time. Her emotions are every erratic right now. If she didn't care she would've killed you last night."

"Or let me freeze to death," added Eve rubbing her arms for warmth. Thirty minutes later the two women had gathered enough wood. Gabrielle began the task of starting a fire while Eve unloaded spices and utensils. Both heads turned when they heard the sound of feet thundering toward the campsite. Destiny and Xena ran into the clearing arriving at exactly the same time, each holding a dead rabbit by the ears.

"Gabrielle are you sure her and I weren't switched at birth?" deadpanned Eve.

Gabrielle shook her head watching the two grown children catching their breath. "Good you can each skin your own rabbit."

Xena and Destiny looked at each other nodding in compliance and sat down across from Gabrielle and Eve, rabbit in hand. Destiny pulled a large dagger from between her breasts as Xena looked on.

"That's a really big dagger," noted Xena.

Destiny looked down at her chest. "Really big breasts," she quipped.

"And I thought your breasts were dangerous," quipped Gabrielle.

Both woman started skinning their animal watching Gabrielle and Eve struggle with the fire. The morning dew had settled against everything in the forest leaving all of the logs at least partially damp preventing the start of a good fire. Destiny looked up from her task suppressing her laughter. After several minutes Xena and Gabrielle looked up again finished with their rabbits.

"Done," they stated in unison.

"Good then maybe you two can get this fire started," growled Gabrielle throwing the flint to the ground.

Xena stood up walking over to help the ladies while Destiny continued to sit grinning at the spectacle. "I can get it started," she offered.

"Be my guest," answered Xena.

"Back away and I will," responded Destiny.

"Fine," answered Xena backing away.

Destiny sat on her log waiting for everyone to clear a path.

"It might help if you actually moved toward the wood," stated Gabrielle.

"I'm comfortable where I'm sitting," answered Destiny, a sly look on her face. As soon as the path to the wood was clear she raised her left arm, a serious look on her face. A small ball of fire appeared in her hand. With careful aim she through it toward the damp wood. Moments later a blazing fire appeared. Three pairs of eyes widened in amazement at the feat.

"You could do this yet you sat there all morning watching us struggle to start a fire?" growled Gabrielle walking angrily toward the small brunette. "That would have very helpful an hour ago!"

"Yes but not nearly as entertaining," replied Destiny sucking in her cheeks trying to contain her laughter.

Gabrielle walked up to her and whacked her on the side of the head. She turned around and glared at Xena who was trying hard to refrain from laughter. "That's right warrior. Don't you dare laugh!" threatened Gabrielle pointing her finger at Xena.

Eve who was standing next to her mother took advantage of the situation and whacked Xena across the side of the head.

"Owe what was that for?" asked Xena rubbing her head.

"You want to laugh. That's what that's for," answered Eve.

"Thank you," added Gabrielle. "You two are insufferable!"

"Jeez Hope never hit me," interjected Destiny.

"Maybe she should have," replied Gabrielle. "What did she do when you misbehaved?"

"She usually threw things at me using her powers," answered Destiny casually. "You know, knives, swords, arrows, any kind of blunt object that could do damage," she added chuckling.

"Are you always this serious?" inquired Gabrielle.

Destiny hesitated before answering, a peaceful smile across her face. "It's been a long time since I've laughed," she replied softly.

"You used to laugh and make jokes all the time," interrupted Eve.

"That was a very long time ago," responded Destiny.

**

Gabrielle walked to the stream dishes in hand and began the mundane task of washing them. From nearby a tree a twinkle of light appeared and the goddess Aphrodite sitting against the trunk.

"After all of you two have been together I can't believe you still have to do the dishes," stated Aphrodite breaking the silence and startling the small blonde.

Gabrielle lurched forward instinctively, stumbling knee deep in the stream as she struggled to hold herself upright. After regaining her balance she stared in the direction of the sound glaring at Aphrodite who was standing with her hand over her mouth, her eyes wide with shock.

"Aphrodite, don't startle me like that," growled Gabrielle.

"I'm so sorry. Really I am. I just wanted to say hi," defended Aphrodite.

"Don't just stand there. Give me a hand," answered Gabrielle.

Aphrodite walked down to the edge of the stream and offered her hand to her friend. "Do you forgive me?" she asked when Gabrielle reached solid ground.

Gabrielle nodded her response. "And for your information we do share cleaning duties. I lost a bet this morning. That's all."

"Yeah okay," replied Aphrodite, a cheesy grin on her face. "I hear congratulations are in order."

"For what? Making it out of Japa alive?" mocked Gabrielle.

"I hear you are a grandmother. Lookin good grandma," kidded the goddess punching her playfully in the shoulder.

"Lets just hope I live long enough to look like one," responded Gabrielle.

"You're going up against Dahak today aren't you?" asked Aphrodite her smile vanishing as she spoke.

Gabrielle nodded her head. "We suspect that Hope is holding the amazon warriors hostage in return for Destiny. We're waiting for word from the village before we make a move."

"Can you really trust Destiny?"

"We don't have a choice. She's confused right now. Only she or Hope have the power to destroy him and I don't think Hope is going to switch sides any time soon."

"Destiny seems pretty volatile right now," interjected Aphrodite. "I mean come on, wanting to live your life as a leopard is pretty radical."

"How do you know about that?" asked Gabrielle curiously.

"Where do think the amorous leopard came from?" answered Aphrodite smugly.

"You sent the leopard?" repeated Gabrielle impressed.

"Of course. Ares told me she's our only hope against Dahak. I now how much she enjoys men. I figured I would give her a little reminder of what she would be missing in the animal kingdom."
"I'm impressed Aphrodite. She definitely wasn't ready to mate."

"Actually I came here to ask you guys not to be too hard on Ares. I know he does stupid things but he was just trying to save me."

"By getting Eve killed?" interrupted Gabrielle.

"I know it was a dumb plan but it was kind of sweet if you think about it."

"I don't think Xena would agree."

"I know but Ares knows he can't kill this god. He loves his immortality. Besides he's grown rather fond of Destiny since Arte died.

"Do you mean Artemis?"

"Yeah. For twenty-five years she thought Hope was really you and Destiny was really Xena's daughter. They appeared shortly after that incident on the beach. It seemed kind of coincidental that Xena would take her own life on the beach and then Gabrielle would suddenly appear at the amazon village farthest north with a dark haired baby of the same age."

"If she thought that the baby was Eve why didn't she kill her? The Olympians believed she would bring about the twilight."

"And instead they brought it on themselves. Arte wasn't as sure. Besides she wasn't gonna pass up the chance to watch the daughter of Xena being raised by queen Gabrielle as a true amazon princess. When the tribe started to grow she was certain she had made the right decision."

"How do you know all this?"

"Arte confided in me. She knew you were my favorite. I didn't want to see you and Xena die so I kept her secret. By the time anyone found out about Hope and Destiny's true parentage most of the Olympians were dead and Ares and I were mortal. And you and Xena were on a boat to that god forsaken place in the east."

"Why didn't you and Ares do something to prevent things from going this far?" asked Gabrielle.

"Gabby I'm not the warrior type. And Ares was afraid of Dahak when the Olympians were still alive. Switching sides was second nature for him. He just didn't know that I would be sacrificed in the process."

"Let's pray that Destiny is more loyal to the amazons. I'd better get going back. They might start worrying about me."

"Alright, later," said Aphrodite and with a twinkle of light she was gone.

**

Destiny sat on a log across the fire from Xena, both warriors sharpening their swords in preparation for the impending battle. Eve was quietly repacking the saddles.

"So tell me about your god Eve," stated Destiny.

"He is the light. He believes love is the way and people have free will. Their lives shouldn't be controlled by the gods," she answered.

"Except for his chosen few whom he offers off as sacrifices," interrupted Destiny.

"I don't question the will of my god," answered Eve.

"My point exactly. Maybe you should. I was told the same thing about Dahak and look where it's gotten me," replied Destiny. "Look at the wonderful things I've done in the name of my god."

"Eli's god is about love and peace, not evil and destruction," responded Eve.

"He sent an archangel down to kill Aphrodite, the goddess of love and he offered you to Caligula and me."

"I'm willing to die for my beliefs just like you," defended Eve walking behind Destiny.

Destiny continued sharpening her weapon staring ahead at the warrior princess. "That's where we're different. I had no intentions of dying last night only killing you."

"You wouldn't think twice about killing my daughter again?" asked Xena, pale blue eyes cold with anger piercing the small brunette.

"If it was the only way. Believe or not I do have my own free will. Lucky for you Xena I have a soft spot for the woman your daughter used to be," answered Destiny.

"I'm not comfortable with this conversation. It's not making it easy for me to trust you right now," hissed Xena.

"Maybe you shouldn't," replied Destiny defiantly. "I am still the second destroyer even if I'm not so insidious."

"Will you be able to kill Hope if the need arises?" asked Xena staring into Destiny's eyes.

"I don't know."

"Does Hope love you?"

"Yes," hissed Destiny.

"Then you grew up with love," stated Xena.

"Not that mushy kind of love but she showed me love. Did she shower me with hugs and kisses? No. Did she tell me she loved me? No, never. Would I sacrifice eternity in hell just to hear say I love you one time? Without hesitation," answered Destiny her expression changing from defiant to wistful as she finished her answer.

Destiny was so deep in thought she didn't notice Eve standing behind her. Eve had picked up a spider that fit perfectly in the palm of her hand and started petting it, lifting it up for Xena to admire. Catching Destiny unaware she gently placed the creature on the small woman's bare shoulder.

Destiny reacted instinctively when she felt the tickle on her skin and looked over at her right shoulder to see the cause of her discomfort. Her eyes widened in horror recognizing the body of the spider.

"Yow," she cried jumping from the log and shaking her arm in an effort to dislodge the bug. "Get it off me. Get it off me," she screamed shaking her body as the creature started for her neck.

Within seconds Eve grabbed the spider and jumped backward out of Destiny's line of fire, laughing at the spectacle. Much to Destiny's dismay Xena joined in the laughter as well. Destiny glared at Eve giving her a menacing look before walking to the other side of the fire.

"I can't believe you did that," stated Destiny trying to shake the terror from her body.

"The big bad warrior is afraid of an itsy bitsy spider," interjected Xena between laughs.

"They're nasty little creatures," spat Destiny.

Gabrielle walked up to the campsite trying to discern the situation. Eve and Xena were laughing uncontrollably and Destiny was sitting on a stump pouting. Before she could find out what the commotion was all about, Myrene, one of the amazon scouts rode into the camp.

Horse and rider came to a stop. "You were right Xena. Hope is holding the warriors hostage. Varia will meet us in front of the temple with the other warriors from the village. They want Destiny or the amazons will die."

"Gee there's a shocker. Can you tell me something we don't know?" asked Destiny sarcastically.

"Destiny we await you're orders," answered Myrene.

"Maybe you hadn't noticed Myrene but we lost. Xena is in charge now. Gabrielle is the queen here not me."

"With respect Destiny. You will always be an amazon to us and our leader."

"Happy days. Tonight I will be a dead amazon then."

"Destiny if you think you will lose today then you will," interrupted Gabrielle.

"The mission is to save the amazons. We'll deal with Dahak later."

"So what is your plan," asked Xena.

"Simple. I'll go up the middle to the temple throw a few fireballs and take out their artillery. They only have crossbows. You and Gabrielle and Eve and Varia will follow behind me and go to the entrance to the right of the temple. The amazons will be there. Bring them to safety and I'll hold Hope off."

"That's the stupidest plan I've ever heard!" interrupted Xena.

"And just how many samurais did you go up against in Japa?" asked Destiny.

"Okay it's the second stupidest plan I've ever heard," growled Gabrielle.

"But in the end it worked," defended Destiny.

"Yes but not without sacrifices," answered Gabrielle shaken by the conversation.

"Did you really think there wouldn't be sacrifices?" asked Destiny her voice rising in anger.

"I just found you Destiny. I don't want to lose you," answered Gabrielle.

"Something will be waiting for me on the other side of those walls. Some great evil. I don't know exactly what it is and I need all of you to help my sisters. Unless something goes terribly wrong I can defend myself but not if I have to worry about you. If something happens to me Varia will explain to you why it is so important that you stay alive."

"What do you mean by some great evil?" asked Xena.

"I can't explain it. It's been in my dreams for many days. I believe it was planted there to keep me in line. If something goes wrong I will yell for you but you must get the amazons to safety first, please," pleaded Destiny.

"We will," answered Xena. "Come on. It's time to go.

**

Destiny sat on top of her mount several hundred feet in front of Dahak's temple waiting for Varia and the other warriors to arrive. Xena walked her horse toward the small brunette and stopped beside her.

"It's just the two us. What aren't you telling me about this great evil?" asked Xena.

"I'll answer your question if you'll answer mine," answered Destiny.

"Fair enough," agreed Xena.

"I'm afraid you get the losing end of the bargain. There's not much more to tell. I can tell you only that it has to do with my past."

"How do you mean?"

"I have been having dark dreams, reliving my most painful days. There is a presence of evil. I know it's there watching me I cannot see it but I know Dahak sends it. You know Xena evil never really dies it just recreates itself. There will be evil in the world for thousands of years to come." Destiny paused heavy in thought. "Now for my question. Why do you trust me?"

"That's easy. I see Gabrielle's light in you."

"You barely know me."

"I see it in your eyes even though you try to hide it. I trust my instincts."

"You trusted your instincts when Hope was a baby but now your greatest fear is that you were wrong and that your actions caused pain to Gabrielle."

"You're very perceptive but it won't change my mind about you. You've had too many chances to kill me."

Varia and several amazons rode up on horseback as the conversation continued. "It's difficult to kill the ones you love," whispered Destiny as Varia came up to her.

"Excuse me but I must speak with you Destiny. It's important," stated Varia.

"Go ahead, "answered Destiny.

"Alone," responded Varia.

"Okay. Xena if we both shall still be alive tonight then you should trust me but not before," replied Destiny following Varia away from the group.

Gabrielle and Eve rode up to Xena to watch the private conversation. The amazons lined up behind them. Varia looked very solemn as she spoke. Destiny's expression turned from concern to anger to rage as she listened to the amazon queen. Everyone watched as Destiny gave Varia an answer then turned and ran hard toward the group.

Destiny stared at Xena and Gabrielle her eyes cold her face expressionless. "There has been a change of plans. Get the amazons out. I will still create a diversion. You will have one chance. If you don't succeed you will all die. Get them out and leave at once. Stay away from the temple. Goodbye."

"Destiny wait," cried Xena and Gabrielle in unison.

Destiny turned her horse around to face them. "You have one chance then leave! I told you Xena you shouldn't have trusted me. Dahak just won."

Before Xena could respond Destiny gave out a loud cry and spurred her horse forward charging the temple. Several crossbow arrows came toward her falling to the ground around her. Using her bow she shot many of the men down and began throwing fireballs into the ground in front of the temple. The soldiers in front of the temple became disoriented giving Xena and Gabrielle the opening they needed.

"Varia what did you say to her?" asked Gabrielle.

"Not until the amazons are safe. You heard her. If we don't go now they will be lost," answered Varia before kicking her horse and following Destiny through the smoke filled grass.

Xena and Gabrielle followed Varia, Eve and the rest of the warriors not far behind. There were less soldiers then expected and taking them out proved to be much easier then originally thought. A well-aimed fireball knocked an opening into the temple for them to go through. As Destiny had stated the amazons were lined up in rows their hands tied behind their backs. The room was separated from the main hall were Dahak remained in fire form.

**

Destiny came to a stop several feet in front of the temple doors, somersaulting into a dismount. Very few men stood in front of her as she neared the entrance. Those who got in her way were easily disposed of with her sword.

She opened the double doors and walked slowly inside, her eyes adjusting to the darkness on the inside. Dahak's flame burned high at the back of the temple. Hope stood behind the fire, her expression fixed and unreadable.

Destiny looked away her eyes searching the temple. She stopped at the altar frozen by the sight in front of her. A young boy about eleven years old with long blonde hair and green eyes was tied with rope across the altar. Above the boy stood a shamaness with dark black eyes, an evil grin on her face as she stood with a dagger above her head ready to pierce the boys heart. She was the evil in her dreams.

"Alti," whispered Destiny frozen with terror as she watched the shamaness towering over the boy. "Noooooo!" cried Destiny running forward as fast as she could. She watched as the knife started its downward arc toward the altar. Jumping into a double forward somersault she reached Alti seconds before the knife could pierce the boys skin, kicking the tall evil woman several feet away.

Quickly she untied the boy's hands and legs using the dagger that Alti had dropped, her legs shaking with fear. She grabbed the boy momentarily to her breast. "Go now. You must leave," she cried pushing the boy away from the altar.

She was met by Alti as soon as she turned around. Alti grabbed her by the throat lifting her feet off the ground. "A fate worse then death," she growled with a low gravely voice. "Enjoy your memories destroyer," she purred.

Destiny was suspended in mid air. She could see her memories flashing by. They started with her broken leg when she was five. Realizing what Alti had planned for her she mustered all of her strength to fight back. She felt an arrow pierce her stomach and started bleeding. A loud rumble was heard as the fire in the back was now changing form. Destiny pushed her hands forward jabbing Alti in the neck and stopping the flow of blood to her brain.

Alti continued holding on blood trickling from her nose. The memories went fast forward to her crucifixion. Destiny could feel the nails pierce her hands one by one followed by her legs, fighting hard to suppress a yell blood pouring from wounds in her hands and legs. She was unsuccessful, instead screaming loud enough for Gabrielle to hear her from the other room.

Gabrielle heard Destiny's scream and ran toward the sound after Varia and Eve assured her they had been successful. Xena followed behind. When they reached the main area the were greeted by the demon Dahak who stood in the pit where the fire once burned, laughing at the spectacle created by his evil. Hope stood emotionless behind him.

Gabrielle saw Alti holding Destiny by the throat, blood now pouring from two additional stomach wounds. She ran to the young woman's aide her sais in hand as Destiny let out a blood curdling scream, tears running down her face as blood oozed from her shoulders and hips as she relived the tearing of her limbs. Gabrielle reached Alti just in time driving both weapons into her back, the assault causing the shamaness to lose her grip. Destiny fell backward onto the ground motionless, still screaming and crying.

Gabrielle ran to the ground placing her hands around Destiny's face, tears forming in her eyes as she watched the young girl suffer. Destiny could only move her eyes staring up into the soft green eyes of her grandmother.

"Look at the bright side," she said softly in between sobs. "I can't feel the nails in my hands and legs."

Gabrielle's expression changed as a soft smile formed on her lips the teardrops running down her face. "Hang in there. Don't die on me."

"Gabrielle please help me," pleaded Destiny choking down the tears her eyes closing tightly to fight the pain. "Please finish it."

"What? I can't," started Gabrielle realizing what she was asking.

"Please. Let the last thing I see be the love in a mother's eyes."

"But."

"Please. Use my sword and save the boy," begged Destiny unaware of the fight that was beginning in the back of the temple.

**

Xena was standing in front of the evil god. He stood about seven feet high with a dark red complexion, horns stretching from the top of his face. He stood towering over Xena laughing smugly.

"Why are all you evil male gods so ugly?" quipped Xena. "You and Lucifer must get your make up done by the same guy."

"Now is not the time for insolence," bellowed Dahak. "You can still change your mind. You would make a great warrior for the darkness."

"When hell freezes over!" shouted Xena running toward the evil god.

Dahak laughed throwing his hands in front of him, a gust of wind throwing Xena backward several feet. Hope took advantage of her father's lapse in concentration and ran toward her daughter and Gabrielle.

"Please mother move. Let me help her," cried Hope.

"I won't let you touch her," hissed Gabrielle.

"Go save her boy. I'll finish here. There's nothing you can do now. I'm you're only chance," answered Hope.

Gabrielle looked up at Hope the cold expression now gone replaced by a softness in her eyes. She backed away reluctantly her eyes never leaving her daughter. Hope kneeled on the ground and placed her hands around Destiny's neck. After a few tense moments Gabrielle watched as the blood started to thin on Destiny's body, her cries now softening. Realizing Hope was healing her daughter she turned to look for the boy.

He was standing behind her watching in horror as Destiny cried. Gabrielle grabbed the boy who struggled to hold his ground. Dahak noticed what was happening and threw another force of wind directed toward Gabrielle slamming her into the wall. He followed with another blow to Xena who had regained her composure and was running toward him. She flew back a second time. He raised his hands and another gust of wind appeared, this time sucking the boy into the air toward him.

Hope held onto her daughter concentrating to heal every wound on her body. Destiny lay with her eyes closed as the life flowed back into her. Slowly the blood disappeared from her body.

Destiny opened her eyes cautiously. She was weak from the trauma inflicted by Alti. She looked up to briefly see the soft green eyes of her mother who's healing hands had brought her back from the torture she endured. In a flash they were gone, replaced by the same green eyes on Gabrielle's face.

"You have betrayed your own father!" shouted Dahak. "I will not let that go unpunished."

Hope walked steadily toward her father emerald green eyes now black with rage. "You promised not to hurt her father," growled Hope.

"You have grown soft Hope because of your love for your daughter," he growled kicking the warrior princess to the ground again as he yelled.

As Hope continued to walk a sword laying on the ground arose and flew through the air toward Dahak who deflected it with the sword in his hand. "I will not let you do to her what you have done to me father," she hissed. As she walked two more swords and a dagger flew toward her father, each one deflected easily by the powerful god. Dahak continued to yell his dismay as his daughter neared her. With one swift stroke he plunged his sword into Hope's chest and laughed.

"No!" cried Gabrielle running toward her slain daughter. Gabrielle held her daughter's head as the life slowly drained from her body.

"Mother, I love you," whispered Hope before closing her eyes for the last time as Gabrielle wept.

Xena picked herself up from the ground freezing in her tracks when the demigoddess fell to the floor. Destiny rose from the ground, pale green eyes dark and empty as she walked toward Dahak, an evil grin across her face. The monster appeared to be in control as she strolled over to the still body of her mother. She gazed longingly at her mother before raising her eyes toward Dahak, a sinister glint in her eyes.

"A present for me grandfather," she hissed then paused looking back at her mother. "And its not even my birthday."

"Now you choose to fight by my side!" growled Dahak grabbing the young boy and holding him in front as a shield.

"I have always been on your side. Now that mother is out of the way I am ready to rule by your side just as we discussed," she answered calmly before turning toward Dahak, pale green eyes turning feral at the sight of the small boy in front of Dahak. "Leave him out of this. This is my battle not his."

The small blonde boy stood defiantly in front of the evil god trying his best to be brave.

"How do I know you are sincere?" asked Dahak.

"If you had just killed Hope to begin with we wouldn't be having this discussion. I could have killed Eve and destroyed you. I didn't. What better way to win Xena's trust then to spare her only living child?"

"Then you shall rule in my name granddaughter. It is after all your destiny," answered Dahak laughing.

"And I am Destiny," finished the small brunette walking to his side. "Now let the boy go and we shall finish what we started." she demanded.

"He stays with me," answered Dahak. "We shall enjoy this battle together."

Destiny glared at the evil god furious at him for involving the boy. She took a couple of deep breaths to calm herself before turning toward Xena. She looked directly into the bewildered eyes of the tall warrior. "What's the matter princess?" she mocked. "At a loss for words?"

Xena stood glaring back at Destiny speechless. "Oh that's right Xena. You thought I had Gabrielle's light. Silly girl," teased Destiny. "You were half right. But it was Hope you should have been trying to save. She is the one with love in her heart. Look at what it has done to her."

Gabrielle rose from her place next to Hope walking toward Destiny. "What are you doing? This isn't you," cried Gabrielle. Before she could get within striking distance Destiny lunged forward landing a perfectly placed front blade kick into the bard's chest, sending her several feet backwards.

"Not now grandmother. I have some unfinished business," stated Destiny casually. "Now where were we?" she asked confronting the warrior princess.

"No more time for talk," growled Dahak.

"Now, now," she started pointing playfully at the powerful god. "Be patient. Xena is mine. You promised."

"Then be done with her now," hissed Dahak.

"Xena," started Destiny. "What are you going to do now? Only I can kill Dahak and we're on the same side," she finished as she walked toward the tall dark warrior, her sword drawn and ready to strike. "You traveled a long way just to die," she teased. "Again," she added as she brought her sword up to strike the first blow.

"It's you who will die and that two bit god you call grandfather!" yelled Xena as she deflected Destiny's first blow then a second as the small brunette closed in on her. Sparks flew from the power of the swings as blade struck against blade. Both women fought powerfully each trying to find an opening. After several parries and unsuccessful lunges Destiny flew in the air twisting her body around to land a side blade kick into Xena's chest, the force of the kick sending her backward several feet.

Destiny ran forward to meet her as she bounced up regaining her composure in time to deflect the smaller woman's sword with her leg as she stood up. Destiny somersaulted into the air over Xena kicking her in the back as she came down toward the ground and picked up her sword. Xena staggered a few feet away from the blow and turned around to face the small woman staring back with cold empty eyes. Destiny ran forward as blades clashed again, only stopping when each woman stood within a foot away their swords blocking each other as the combatants stared at each other.

"Save the boy," whispered Destiny through clenched teeth.

"What?" asked Xena.

"Kick me into Dahak," growled Destiny. She circled Xena then spun around in the air, her chest exposed allowing Xena to connect with a front blade kick to the chest sending her flying through the air toward Dahak.

The evil god instinctively backed away pushing the boy to the side as Destiny landed at his feet. "You're gonna have to do better than that granddaughter!" bellowed Dahak.

"Jeez I have a name," hissed Destiny. She stood up and turned toward her grandfather. "If I knew the boy was safe maybe I would have better focus to do my job!" she shouted.

"Fine," growled Dahak. "What do you suggest?"

"Buddy come here," she said pointing to the boy. "Go over to Gabrielle. She'll keep you safe for now," she added patting the boy on the shoulder.

"Now let's finish this," hissed Destiny running toward Xena. Once she was within striking distance Destiny parried to the right then the left both hands around the hilt. Xena skillfully deflected each blow. Destiny spun around in the air catching the warrior princess off guard with a roundhouse kick, knocking Xena's sword from her hand. Destiny hesitated for a moment giving Xena enough time to retaliate with her own kick knocking the sword out of her hand.

Destiny lunged forward, her hands on Xena's chest as the two struggled against each other in hand to hand combat. Xena grabbed Destiny in the same manner and both women held on trying to wrestle the other to the ground. Xena placed her foot along Destiny's stomach flipping her over her head. Destiny held on to Xena and both women rolled over the ground a couple of times like revolutions of a wagon wheel. They were several feet away from Dahak by the time their momentum stopped.

"Give me your chakram," whispered Destiny.

"What?" asked an exasperated warrior princess.

"Not much of a vocabulary during a fight huh princess?" started Destiny. "Only I can kill Dahak. So unless you want me to kill you first give me the chakram."

Before Xena could respond Destiny reached over and took it from her hip. She turned toward Dahak and let the weapon fly through the air toward her grandfather.

"Oh no," cried Destiny as the weapon flew by Dahak's head missing him by inches then careening off the wall and flying toward Gabrielle.

"Gabrielle duck!" yelled Xena. Without hesitation Gabrielle jumped back on the floor grabbing the boy with her as the chakram whooshed closely over her head creating a breeze as it sailed by.

"You dare betray me granddaughter!" growled Dahak his voice loud enough to make the walls of the temple shake. Destiny jumped from the ground forgetting the errant weapon still flying through the air.

"Duh, and the name is Destiny," she shouted. "What did you expect? I'm my father's daughter," she growled defiantly as the chakram came directly toward her head. Xena dove forward taking the young woman down with one hand, the other hand catching the chakram before it could strike Destiny down.

"Damn thing has a mind of it's own," grumbled Destiny.

"Only I can use it," whispered Xena. "Or Gabrielle."

"Must have thought she was Hope," quipped Destiny. "What do we do now?"

"Just follow my lead," answered Xena as she picked the young woman up placing Destiny between herself and Dahak.

Xena placed the chakram in Destiny's right hand. "I'm left handed," cried Destiny staring intensely as her grandfather prepared to strike back, a massive fireball growing in his hand. "This is not good. Hurry!"
Xena grabbed the chakram and placed it in her left hand in front of her. Placing her hand over the smaller woman's hand she guided the weapon in front of her. As Dahak released his own weapon of destruction, Xena guided the arm backward then forward. "Release it now!" she yelled. Destiny did as she was told moments before the fireball struck her with powerful force sending her and Xena several yards backward into the wall of the temple before they landed in a pile on the ground. The chakram sailed through the air cutting through Dahak's neck like a knife through butter. The powerful god yelled as the weapon hit him then fell to the ground with a thunderous noise.

"Xena, Destiny!" yelled Gabrielle as she ran to the fallen women's aide followed by the small boy. Eve and Varia ran into the main hall when they heard the noise. Seeing the distraught boy, Eve ran to him, embracing him as her cried for the fallen warrior. Destiny lay motionless in Xena's arms. Xena slowly opened her eyes trying to regain her focus as she looked up into Gabrielle's comforting eyes.

"You did it," whispered Gabrielle.

"It was a team effort," replied Xena.

"Destiny, wake up," cried Gabrielle patting her gently on the cheek, concern etched in her face when the young woman didn't respond. Destiny lay still on top of the warrior princess her eyes closed, a peaceful expression on her face. Xena gently moved Destiny away from her and checked her pulse as Gabrielle looked on helplessly.

"Her pulse is very weak," whispered Xena placing her ear over the young woman's heart. "I can barely detect a heartbeat," she added.

"Don't let her die. Not now," pleaded Gabrielle. Xena continued her examination of the fallen woman as Eve and Gabrielle looked on.

Eve held small boy hugging him tightly as he cried. "She'll be okay," started Eve. "She's in god's hands now."

"Oh that's comforting," mumbled Xena low enough to go unheard.

"She can't die. Do something Xena. I can't lose her. Not now," whispered Gabrielle. She fell to her knees, pulling the slain woman's head into her lap as she cried. "Please don't leave," she pleaded as Xena looked on silently.

**

Destiny stood on top of the cliff looking down clothed in a white dress. "White is not my color," she stated looking down at the clothes covering her body. The place seemed vaguely familiar to her as she stared downward into the abyss. "If they think I'm jumping into that thing they are sadly mistaken," she said out loud.

"Oh now. If that's where you belonged you'd be down there already," boomed a deep baritone voice behind her. Startled Destiny jumped forward losing her footing and falling off of the cliff. Destiny screamed as she plunged downward until she felt a strong hand grabbing her and lifting her up. Moments later she stood at the top of the cliff staring into the deep blue eyes of Michael the archangel.

"Do you throw all of your guests over a cliff and scare them to death?" growled Destiny.

"Scare them to death. That's a good one," answered Michael laughing.

"So I'm already dead?" she asked. "What happens next?"

"Come with me," he answered shaking his head. "Someone wants to see you." Michael pulled Destiny into his arms and lifted off the ground, coming to a stop at a cliff several hundred feet away before setting Destiny back down. Her eyes widened as she looked behind him. Hope was standing a few feet away smiling back at her daughter.

Hope walked up to the small brunette capturing her in a bone-crushing hug. Destiny cried as her mother's arms enveloped her. "I'm sorry," whispered Destiny.

"It's okay," started Hope with a soothing voice. "It's okay to cry." Destiny looked up at her mother confusion clouding her eyes. "I've never been more proud of you," she added.

"I love you mother," choked Destiny.

"I love you Destiny," whispered Hope. "Be happy." Destiny closed her eyes relishing the moment she had lived her entire life to experience. When she opened her eyes Hope was gone.

"Where is she?" asked Destiny.

"She has been given a second chance. She will wait to be reborn," answered Michael.

"And what happens to me?" asked Destiny.

"Heaven isn't ready for you princess. You have unfinished business. Only you will know what to do."

"Dahak."

"Yes."

"So you're sending me back?" asked Destiny.

"Well not me personally. He misjudged you once. He won't do it a second time. You do want to go back don't you?"

"Yes, but I don't understand."

"And he likes it that way. Continue the path you're on and we'll meet again," answered Michael.

**

Destiny could sense the darkness around her. Every inch of her body ached as she listened to the sounds. All she could hear was the quiet crying of Gabrielle and the boy. Slowly she opened her eyes trying to focus as she regained her strength. Her head was cradled in Gabrielle's hands, the blonde's eyes closed as tears streamed down her cheek. "Trying to drown me," whispered Destiny. Gabrielle opened her eyes staring at the small brunette in disbelief.

"Thank the gods you're alive," cried Gabrielle hugging her grandchild. Destiny reached both hands around the small blonde returning the embrace while Xena, Varia and Eve looked on, smiles of relief washing across their faces.

"Okay enough of the mushy stuff all ready," stated Destiny braking the contact a grimace on her face.

"What's wrong?" asked Gabrielle.

"Look's like I've lost my powers," answered Destiny. "Guess I'm stuck in human form for now on."

"That's not such a bad thing," interjected Xena.

"Yea but I was kind of looking forward to kittens," quipped Destiny.

"Can you get up?" asked Gabrielle.

"I think so," answered Destiny as her grandmother helped her to her feet. She searched the room looking for the boy her eyes stopping when she saw him cradled in Eve's arms. She ran to him grabbing him in her arms and hugging him fiercely, one hand stroking him on the head as she continued to squeeze him tightly. "I love you. I love you," she cried kissing him on the top of the head. "Thank goodness you're alright."

"Stop with the mushy stuff," he cried squirming in her arms to escape. "Love is a weakness."

Destiny pulled away from the boy a horrified expression on her face. She held his hands and looked intensely in his eyes. "Don't you ever say that again, ever. Whoever told you that is an idiot."

"But you told me that," he interrupted.

Destiny paused, a sheepish look on her face. "Right. I'm an idiot. I was wrong," she stated vehemently. "Don't ever forget that."

"That you're an idiot and you were wrong. I won't forget," he deadpanned.

"Are you two related?" asked Xena chuckling.

Destiny grinned at the boy running her hand across the top of his head ignoring the snide remark. "No silly. Love is not a weakness. It's the greatest strength and the most precious gift in the universe. I love you baby," she said pulling the boy toward her for another hug.

"I love you too," he whispered. "And don't call me baby."

"I won't," Destiny answered. "Are you ready to meet some great people?" The boy nodded in response. Destiny broke the hug and grabbed him by the hand, turning toward Xena, Gabrielle and Eve who were all watching the scene with wonderment. Varia looked on smiling.

"This is Eve, the messenger of Eli," she started pointing at Eve. "Next to her is Varia, queen of the amazon tribe in this region. And this is Gabrielle, also queen of the amazons," she said pointing to Gabrielle. The boy's eyes widened with delight as he was introduced to the small blonde. "And what makes Gabrielle such an import queen?" she asked looking at the boy grinning. The boy shook his head in anticipation. "She rides through the lands having great adventures with Xena, the warrior princess and Gabrielle's faithful side kick," she finished smiling mischievously at Xena. Xena cocked her head side way raising one eyebrow in question while Gabrielle grinned like a Cheshire cat.

"I would like you to meet my most precious gift. This is my son, Solon."

Xena's mouth dropped open when she heard her own son's name, stunned by the information. Tears welled up in her eyes as she smiled at the boy then at Destiny. Gabrielle walked up to the boy and hugged him. "It is a pleasure to meet you Solon," she whispered in his ear.

"Does that make you my great grandmother?" asked Solon.

Gabrielle placed her hand on his shoulder. "I guess it does," she replied.

"I have a birthday coming up soon," he added.

"Solon behave," interrupted Destiny. "That's rude."

"It's all right," offered Gabrielle. "How old will you be?"

"Twelve."

"You're almost a young man," interrupted Xena grabbing the boy and hugging him.

Xena turned to Destiny embracing her. "Thank you," she whispered.

"I hope you don't mind I named him after your son," she asked.

"I'm honored," answered Xena wiping a tear from her face.

"Actually mother suggested the name."

"But Hope," started Xena.

"I know that now. I wish I could have met him."

"You would have liked him. Of course with your track record with men I'm not sure I would have let you anywhere near him," teased Xena.

"Play nice," growled Destiny.

"Oh I will." Xena walked over to Solon who was talking to Gabrielle and Eve. "Excuse me Solon can I borrow your mom for a few minutes?" asked Xena.

"Sure," he answered.

"Good because we have some unfinished business," she added grabbing Destiny by the ear and dragging her away from the group as the small brunette howled in discomfort."

"Owe, what the hell is that for?" cried Destiny rubbing her ear after Xena released her grip.

"Don't you ever touch my chakram again," growled Xena, an evil grin appearing on her face.

"Okay okay. Be nice or I'll start calling you grandma too," teased Destiny a smirk forming on her lips as Gabrielle laughed behind her.

"Don't you ever call me that," hissed Xena.

"Doesn't Eve call Gabrielle mother? I thought you two shared," quipped Destiny.

Xena glared at the young woman for a moment trying to contain her anger. "Listen little girl," started Xena. Suddenly the dagger on the altar rose up sailing through the air toward Xena. With skilled hands the warrior was able to stop the weapon in front of her.

"Oops," replied Destiny walking backwards away from the tall dark woman, one hand covering the smile on her face.

Xena walked purposefully toward Destiny a feral grin on her face.

"Sorry," squeaked Destiny. "Guess all of my powers weren't lost."

Xena stopped to stare at the young woman noticing her discomfort. "You really have to work on that temper," she yelled throwing the dagger down in front of Destiny.

"Don't call me little," whispered Destiny.

Xena lost control of her stoic expression and burst out laughing while the others took a breath of relief and joined in.

"Does that mean you're not gonna try and kill me?" asked Destiny.

"Not today anyway," answered Xena before pulling the smaller woman into a hug and leading her away from her daughter and soulmate. "You remind me of someone even though I can't figure out why."

"Having nightmares again Xena?" teased Destiny.

"I want you to answer a question for me," responded Xena ignoring the sarcasm.

"Sure."

"You told Dahak you spared Eve to gain my favor," started Xena.

"I was bluffing," interrupted Destiny.

"Remind me never to play poker with you," mumbled Xena smiling at the smaller woman. "You knew her sacrifice would stop Dahak but you spared her anyway."

"Like Dahak said love is a weakness just don't tell my son that. He deserves a chance at happiness," interrupted Destiny her face filled with sorrow. "Come on. We have a job to finish," added Destiny walking toward her mother's lifeless body as Xena looked on.

"I'll start gathering some wood," stated Xena.

"No!" cried Destiny and Eve in unison.

"Fire will only bring them back. How do you think Hope survived the last three times you killed her," explained Destiny.

"Their bodies must be taken to the ocean," added Eve.

Destiny stared at Eve disbelief in her eyes. "How did you know?" asked Destiny.

"I have friends in high places," answered Eve shrugging her shoulders and looking up toward the sky.

"But Michael sent me back because I had unfinished business to attend to that no one else knew about," replied Destiny confusion in her voice.

"And you have. Only this isn't what he was talking about. When the time comes you will know," answered Eve.

**

Destiny stood alone on the ship as it sailed deeper into the ocean. Solon was left back on shore with Varia and the other amazons. Xena, Gabrielle and Eve stood several paces away as hollowed eyes looked aimlessly into the calm waters. Both bodies had been wrapped in cloth and lay on the deck of the ship waiting to be sent to their watery grave.

The shores of the harbor grew fainter in the distance until all traces of land were gone from her sight. Destiny could feel herself frozen in time as she thought about the events that brought her to this moment. The only sound came from the ripples of the waves and the wind along the sea. The silence was broken by the soft footsteps of her grandmother.

Gabrielle stood quietly next to the small brunette, a compassionate hand resting upon her shoulder. "It's time," she said softly. Destiny gripped the rail of the ship tightly as she fought valiantly to control her emotions. A small hand gently covered her own. Pale green eyes filled with tears as she turned to face the small blonde, her head bowed down as she inhaled deeply to fight the ache in her heart.

Gabrielle pulled Destiny into her arms offering her words of comfort. "It's okay to cry," she whispered stroking the back of her head as small sobs came from the distressed young woman. Destiny broke the contact and quickly composed herself allowing Gabrielle to lead her over to Xena and Eve who stood next to the bodies.

As the bodies were committed to the ocean Destiny began to recite a verse.

All four women stood silently for several minutes. Xena and Gabrielle stood behind Destiny their hands on her shoulders as she cried in anguish over the loss of her beloved mother.

"Those were beautiful words," whispered Xena breaking the silence.

"My singing could wake the dead not comfort them," answered Destiny, a weak grin across her face.

"Where did you learn that psalm?" asked Gabrielle.

"I learned it from your story about David and Goliath," continued Destiny as Gabrielle proceeded to open the bag and look at the contents. "I'm not sure what it means but I always thought they were fitting words for a funeral," she added, a wounded expression on her face.

"Does this mean you believe in god?" asked Eve.

"You're not gonna start preaching on me are you?" pleaded Destiny. "Let's just say that I had a better experience with your god the second time around and leave it at that," answered Destiny.

"What does that mean?" asked Gabrielle.

"When I was unconscious I was taken to a place between heaven and hell and visited by Michael."

"You were dead!" interrupted Gabrielle alarmed by the admission.

"I guess. I was in white and standing on a rock when he threw me over the cliff. Of course then he saved me and brought me to another place. It was still a better reception than the last time I was there," rambled Destiny while Xena, Gabrielle and Eve looked on. "Mother was there."

"Hope was there!" exclaimed Xena.

"How is that possible?" asked Gabrielle before Destiny could continue.

"She's to be reborn mother," interrupted Eve.

"She wasn't all bad," added Destiny quietly. "She did give her life for me."

Everyone stood in silence as the information was absorbed. "The amazons are a strong nation because of her," stated Destiny. "She did do a lot of good even if it wasn't always for the right reasons."

"Maybe one day you will tell me about her," stated Gabrielle breaking the silence.

"I'd like that," answered Destiny. "Oh that reminds me," added Destiny turning around toward a bench on the ship. "I have something for you." She walked to the bench and picked up a large leather bag and walked back to Gabrielle. "These are for you," she added pushing the bag into Gabrielle's arms.

"My scrolls!" exclaimed Gabrielle looking into the bag. "But how?" she asked looking at Destiny.

"You left them in your hut at the village before you went to Egypt. Don't you remember?" asked Destiny. Gabrielle looked into pale green eyes perplexed as she shook her head trying to remember the events. "They say the memory is the first thing to go," quipped Destiny.

"Hey, respect your elders," growled Gabrielle her eyebrows furrowed as she spoke.

Destiny nodded her head and smiled playfully. "Yes ma'am," she replied trying unsuccessfully to suppress a smile as Gabrielle swatted her across the shoulder. "Everything I learned came from those scrolls."

"You learned to be annoying from her stories?" asked Xena an evil grin on her face as she chuckled.

"The stories are all about you, princess," Destiny countered giving Xena a deadly look.

"I definitely recognize that look," interrupted Gabrielle pointing at her granddaughter.

Destiny's expression softened as Gabrielle spoke. Her mind wandered to thoughts of her future, one without her mother in her life. "If you will excuse me I'm going to take a walk around the ship," she stated then turned and walked away before hearing a response.

Xena and Gabrielle sat down on the bench along with Eve looking through the newfound treasure in the bard's hands. Gabrielle gazed after the small brunette. "I'm worried about her Xena," she stated.

"She's strong like you Gabrielle. She'll be okay," answered Xena.

"But she's so confused right now."

"Wouldn't you be?" asked Xena.

"I guess so. I don't like her being a warrior."

"That is something you can't change."

"You once said that warriors don't live to old age. That scares me. I don't want her to die young with a sword in her hand."

"Well we've survived okay and she is as good as us," replied the warrior princess placing her arm around Gabrielle in comfort.

"Better," boasted Gabrielle as she laid her head on Xena's shoulder.

**

Eve walked up to Destiny who was standing at the opposite end of the ship staring out to sea. "How are you?" she asked.

"I've been better," replied Destiny a chilling sound in her voice.

"Can we talk?" asked Eve.

"Talk," growled Destiny never looking away from the ocean.

"I'm sorry."

"For what? Betraying me? Selling me into slavery? Ordering my death?"

"I never ordered your death," answered Eve.

"You made no effort to stop it."

"I know and I'm sorry. I can't change the past."

"And I can't forget the past."

"Do you think we can ever be friends?" asked Eve.

"We tried that once. Unfortunately you didn't inherit your mother's loyalty to friendship."

"I've made a lot of mistakes in my life. The greatest one was my betrayal to you."

Destiny wheeled around staring directly into the blue eyes of her tormentor. "Why?"

"I was jealous of you."

"What?" asked Destiny her head cocked in disbelief.

"You had a mother. Mine was taken from me when I was a baby."

"And now you have your mother while mine lays at the bottom of the ocean," replied Destiny turning back to look over the rail of the ship. "If you don't mind I'd like to be alone," she added.

"Of course. Maybe we'll talk again," responded Eve before walking back toward her mother and Gabrielle.

"Maybe," whispered Destiny.

**

"Give her time," stated Xena as Eve sat down on the bench next to her and Gabrielle.

"I don't expect her to ever forgive me. I took her away from her son," answered Eve.

"The wounds will heal in time," interjected Gabrielle. "She's been through a lot in her short life."

"Her son will keep her grounded," added Xena. "I sure didn't see that one coming."

"I don't think any of us did," stated Eve.

"How old could she have been when she had him?" asked Gabrielle.

"We were born a week apart. That would have made her sixteen when she gave birth," offered Eve.

"That she definitely doesn't get from you," said Xena thinking out loud.

"What?" asked Gabrielle and Eve in unison.

"Nothing. I was thinking of something else," she answered.

"I wonder what his father looks like," interjected Gabrielle.

"Probably tall dark and handsome," answered Xena. "Remember Varia said she has a thing for bad boys."

"Like someone else I know," muttered Gabrielle.

"Past tense. Don't change the subject," growled Xena placing her arm around Gabrielle and pulling her closer, kissing her on the cheek.

"Solon's hair is awfully blonde to have two brunette parents," stated Eve.

"He definitely has her green eyes," added Gabrielle.

"He's pretty tall for his age. The father is definitely tall," continued Xena.

"Where do you think his father is?" asked Eve.

"Jeez you three sound like a bunch of cackling hens," interrupted Destiny walking toward the trio. "To answer your question Eve, Solon's father is dead. He died shortly after my son was born. His father had blonde hair and was very tall but he was one of the good guys. It's only been in the last year that I have developed a taste for bad boys."

"Did you hear every thing we said?" asked Xena.

"Pretty much," answered Destiny. "I have very sensitive ears. Anymore questions? I don't mind answering them."

"Where does your son live now?" asked Gabrielle.

"He lives with his older brother Xenos at the centaur camp outside of the village."

"Centaur camp," repeated Xena.

"Xenos?" repeated Gabrielle.

"I told you mother did some good things even if they were for the wrong reasons. The tribe of Kalaopis relocated when I was a baby. How do you think our numbers have grown so quickly? There are a few Gabriels running around the camp along with a few Xenos and Xenons. They're very popular names. The name Gabrielle has been reserved strictly for princesses."

"Is Xenos your son also?" asked Xena.

"Oh no. He's only a couple of years younger then me. He was born during the second year of mother's reign."

"I think we need to travel to this village and check things out," stated Gabrielle.

"I think you're right," agreed Xena standing up to stretch her legs.

"Destiny can I ask you one last question?" inquired Xena.

"Go ahead. I have nothing to hide," answered Destiny.

"When we hit the wall inside of the temple my head hit the stone wall but you were knocked out maybe even dead. Why is that?"

"That's easy. My head hit your head," replied Destiny a grin forming on her face. Xena cocked her head sideways in bewilderment. "There's a lot more give in that wall then in that hard, thick skull of yours," added Destiny quickly walking away from the warrior as she laughed. Xena stood in silence while Gabrielle and Eve chuckled as they watched the small brunette walk a good distance away from them.

"You know Gabrielle, I wouldn't worry about that sword getting her in trouble," started the tall warrior. "That mouth of hers is going to get her killed first," she quipped.

"Too many warrior princess stories," yelled Destiny from the other side of the ship. "I lost my powers not my hearing," she added grinning.

"I told you Gabrielle. That mouth is going to get her killed," answered Xena before she took off running toward the small brunette. Destiny laughed and started running in the opposite direction around the ship before climbing up the masts as Xena followed in hot pursuit.

"Which one is supposed to be the parental figure?" asked Eve.

"I have no idea," answered Gabrielle. "I have no idea."

THE END

Note from the author.

Although I enjoyed many story lines of XWP the Hope story wasn't one of them. Two of the problems I had were how she died and that she died with absolutely no redemptive qualities even though her mother was Gabrielle. This was my chance to satisfy the story ending.

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