"Through the Eye of the Beholder"
Disclaimers:
The characters of Xena, Gabrielle and Ares, as well as anyone else that may look or sound even remotely familiar, all belong to MCA/Universal and Renaissance Pictures. No copyright infringements were intended.
Sex/Violence Warning: This story depicts scenes of violent conduct and sexual activity between adults. (ALT)
History Content: History comment: An unknown character to the Xenaverse has been researched from Greek mythology and used in this story.
Synopsis: Ares, the God of war, takes revenge on Gabrielle after he learns of Xena's death. Blaming Gabrielle for her past actions, Ares punishes her by seducing, Alanna, Gabrielle's new acquaintance. Believing there's good in everyone, Alanna falls into his trap as he uses her innocence to form his own legion of flesh and blood to reign at his side and rule the world. Knowing that his motifs will stir up Xena's spirit to make an appearance only satisfies this God's urge for his hunger of war. Ares has to be stopped and with the help of Xena, Gabrielle and the Eye of Hephestus, this is one fight that Ares can't win.
Dedication: This story is dedicated to Kevin Smith. A remarkable person who's now sadly departed, leaving all who loved him so broken hearted.
Comments, feedback, and constructive criticism may be sent to deb222268@yahoo.co.uk. Thank you.
"Gabrielle, ... Gabrielle, wake up, it’s me."
Gabrielle was awakened with a sudden jolt.
"Xena, is that you?" she whispered.
Surrounded by an aura of light, a vision of Xena appeared before Gabrielle.
"Yes, Gabrielle, its me, it’s so good to see you again," replied Xena.
As tears fill Gabrielle’s eyes, the long awaited image of Xena was not as visible as she had hoped for. Struggling to speak through her emotions, Gabrielle took a deep breath.
"Where have you been, Xena, you said you’d stay by my side?"
There was an expression on Xena’s face that sent shivers down Gabrielle’s spine. She couldn’t decide whether a chill of fear now ran through her body, or if it was just the cold breeze blowing through the cracks in the walls. The look on Xena’s face caused concern for Gabrielle.
"What is it, Xena, what’s wrong?"
Crouching down to Gabrielle, Xena spoke in her ear.
"Gabrielle, hurry, we don’t have much time."
Xena searched the room as if she was expecting someone. She looked back at Gabrielle, who was still sitting on the floor. Xena’s voice became harsh.
"Gabrielle, hurry up, what are you waiting for?"
Gabrielle stared at Xena, shaking her head, mystified at what she was expecting of her.
"Xena, what is it I have to do?" she asked.
The eye contact between them was held for a few seconds, until Xena spoke with apprehension.
"The ashes, where are my ashes?"
Confused, Gabrielle ran over to the bag that had been carrying Xena’s ashes for six months since her death. She retrieved the pot and ran back to Xena only to find that she had disappeared. Gabrielle swung from side to side searching for her friend.
"XENA, ….XENA, where have you gone?"
A familiar voice answered her, but it was not that of Xena’s.
"Well, well, well, if it isn’t the little bard from Poteidaia, trying to do good again. Only this time, Gabrielle, you’re just too late."
Gabrielle spun round, the pot gripped tightly in her hands.
"ARES. What do you want? Where’s Xena?"
Ares raised his eyebrows and slyly jeered to the corner of the dark room.
"Take a look at your so-called friend now, Gabrielle."
As she slowly walked over to the corner of the dark room, Gabrielle was anxious at what she might see. Walking cautiously closer, she could just make out a shadow of Xena lying on the floor. Holding her hand to her mouth Gabrielle whispered, "Xena, are you alright?"
Kneeling down to her side, it was clear that Xena was hurt.
"What happened, Xena, who did this to you?"
Before Xena could answer, Gabrielle turned to Ares in anger.
"You did this to her, didn’t you?" demanded Gabrielle.
Ares shrugged his shoulders and then laughing, he vanished into thin air. Gabrielle turned to Xena.
"What happened, Xena?"
A look of evil stared out of Xena’s eyes as she spoke.
"Ares was right, Gabrielle. You were just too late again. Why do you constantly let me down?"
Gabrielle stood up and stepped backwards with uncertainty.
"Xena, I … I don’t know what you mean."
Xena stood slowly as Gabrielle stared back at this unfamiliar person standing in front of her. Pointing a finger, Xena began to walk circles around Gabrielle.
"It didn’t take you long to replace me, did it, Gabrielle?"
Gabrielle gulped back her fear as she looked down at Alanna sleeping on the floor and explained as delicately to Xena as she could.
"Xena, Alanna is just a very good friend, she will never be you. I didn’t ask you to leave me, that was your choice. I have to move on or I’ll go insane."
Xena grinned back at Gabrielle, nodding her head.
"That’s right, I did leave you behind didn’t I, Gabrielle? A good decision, don’t you think, Ares?
As Xena held out her hands, Ares appeared opposite her.
"A very wise one, my Queen. Now we can be together for eternity thanks to you, Gabrielle. You gave me everything I always desired."
As Ares and Xena started to kiss passionately in front of Gabrielle, she had to close her eyes in disbelief. Xena paused for a moment as Ares caressed her neck with his lips.
"Oh, and Gabrielle, Ares gives me the pleasure that you couldn’t in that department," winked Xena, "if you know what I mean."
As Ares laughed, Gabrielle turned her back in frustration and despair.
"No, I can’t believe you would do this to me, Xena."
Dropping the pot that held Xena’s ashes, Gabrielle ran outside, leaving behind the distant, wicked laughter of Xena and Ares.
"How could this have happened? I can’t believe Xena would go to Ares like that. This must be a nightmare. I’m trapped in my own nightmare."
Gabrielle looked back at the farmhouse. Somehow, it just wasn’t right. It didn’t resemble Xena’s grandparent’s old farmhouse now. That was quaint and welcoming. This farmhouse appeared more haunted than homely. As the storm above smashed down onto her body, Gabrielle figured that somehow none of this was real. Closing her eyes, she begged for help off the one person she loved most.
"Xena, please wake me up, I can’t stand this any longer."
Gabrielle dropped to her knees. The ground was muddy and cold.
"Xena, where are you, please wake me from this awful nightmare. Help me, Xena, help me."
To Gabrielle’s relief, she heard a welcoming voice.
"Gabrielle, wake up, it’s ok, I’m here now."
"Xena?" gasped Gabrielle.
"No, Gabrielle. It’s me, Alanna. Everything is alright, it was just a nightmare."
Alanna smiled down at Gabrielle, stroking her cheek. Sitting up abruptly, Gabrielle sighed with relief.
"Just a nightmare is an understatement, Alanna. Thanks for waking me, that was terrible." frowned Gabrielle.
"I know, it’s ok now," replied Alanna hugging Gabrielle.
But sometimes, Alanna’s cuddles didn’t seem enough for Gabrielle. She felt fortunate to have met someone so pleasant as Alanna after the death of Xena. But although they spent every day together, something was missing. If Gabrielle closed her eyes long enough, she could believe that it was Xena’s breaths she could hear beside to her at night. Holding onto each other, Gabrielle realized though, that without Alanna’s affections, she just couldn’t go on living, whether she needed Xena or not. She had hoped Xena would come to her in her dreams, but there had been an absence by her side for six months now. It wasn’t Gabrielle’s intention to have this kind of relationship with Alanna. It had just happened, just as it had with Xena. Gabrielle was fortunate enough to have found happiness three times in her life. Yet this happiness seemed surrounded with the guilt of Xena’s demise. Although Xena had wished to remain in death, it was not her desire. Alanna interrupted Gabrielle’s thoughts of Xena and dropping her head, asked the question that had been eating at her heart for the last five months.
"Gabrielle, why do you always cry out for Xena in your sleep?"
Gabrielle slowly looked up at Alanna, unaware of her cries of heartbreak in the night.
"Do I do that often, Alanna?"
Alanna raises her head, "yes, nearly every night."
Gabrielle took a deep breath and placing her hand in Alanna’s, tried to explain.
"Xena and I were very close and the way Xena died still haunts me, Alanna, can you understand that?"
Gabrielle’s grip on Alanna’s hand tightened. Alanna nodded her head.
"Was that the same nightmare that you normally have, Gabrielle?" Alanna asked. Gabrielle frowned, "no, Ares was there this time. I think he has something to do with all of this."
Alanna’s eyes widened as she sat up.
"You’ve met Ares before haven’t you, what’s he like?"
Gabrielle sighed, "Ares is the God of war, but he does have a compassionate side which only Xena could bring out in him. He loved her, he gave up his immortality for her, that is true love."
"So he’s a good guy then?" asked Alanna confused.
Gabrielle thought for a short moment.
"He’s not a good guy. Ares does what he thinks is right for the God of war, so how can he be wrong. He’s not a bad guy, he just isn’t good."
Alanna laughed at Gabrielle’s usual optimistic outlook on life.
"You always have good things to say about people, Gabrielle. That is what I admire most about you."
But as Alanna snuggled up to Gabrielle, she couldn’t help wondering if Ares had something to do with her nightmares. When Alanna had fallen asleep, Gabrielle took a walk outside. She decided to call upon Ares, whom she feared was unaware of Xena’s death.
"ARES, I need to talk to you."
As if Ares had been stood there all the time, his vision became clear in front of Gabrielle. He held his chin up high and took a deep breath, staring Gabrielle straight in the eyes.
"Don’t ask for my sympathy, Gabrielle, you’re not worthy of it,"
"Are you tormenting my dreams, Ares?" questioned Gabrielle.
Ares laughed wickedly.
"Is that what you think you deserve, Gabrielle?"
"Deserve, what do you mean deserve?" Gabrielle frowned.
" Well, rumour has it," Ares paused, "that it was you who let Xena die."
"It wasn’t like that, Ares," interrupted Gabrielle.
Shaking his head at Gabrielle, Ares refused to listen to her excuses.
"You’re an unreliable person, Gabrielle, who can’t make the right decisions to save your best friend’s life."
Defending her actions, Gabrielle denied his blame.
"That’s not true, Ares, I only did what Xena wanted me to do."
Ares was unconvinced with the bard’s way of words.
"Not good enough, Gabrielle. You just did what she asked you to do. You see, Xena did want to live; she just needed you to make that selfish decision for her. Once again you failed her. You let Xena die and now I will make sure that you suffer for that."
Gabrielle, overcome with the burden of Ares’ convictions, began to cry.
"Why do you hate me so much Ares, I’ve never gone out of my way to threaten you?"
"Oh, you can’t threaten me, Gabrielle, you’re just an irritation that has gotten in my way so many times before and now I think it’s time that came to an end."
As Ares created a ball of fire in the palms of his hands, Gabrielle prepared for death.
"Xena will be waiting for me," she whispered to herself.
For the first time in her life, Gabrielle was not afraid to die. Ares hesitated, now knowing that killing Gabrielle would only release her from the pain he wanted her to suffer.
"Go on, Ares, kill me. It’s what you’ve always wanted."
Gabrielle closed her eyes and awaited the penalty Ares had sentenced her to. But changing his decision, he hurled the bolt of fire straight past Gabrielle’s head, terrifying her and creating a devastation of chaos in the barn behind her.
"Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to take away the life I so begrudgingly gave back to you, Gabrielle. I gave you back your life for Xena, just to let you take hers away. Killing you would be very tempting I must add, but that would be too easy for you. No, you must suffer in the same way that I am. My loss will become yours forever. Unless of course, you can tell me where Xena’s spirit is."
Gabrielle opened her eyes. Ares held his head up high, feeling defeated at Xena’s desertion.
"Where she is? You’re the God, Ares, work it out for yourself."
Reaching for his sword, Ares aimed it at Gabrielle.
"Goddamn it woman, you tell me where her spirit is or I’ll tear you apart with my bear hands." Gabrielle noticed that the grief in Ares’ face, was as painful as the loss she was experiencing herself.
"I don’t know where Xena is, Ares, because you keep tormenting my dreams. If you let her come to me then I will let you know."
Ares bit his lip and slowly waved his sword up and down in Gabrielle’s face.
"You…, had better let me know when you find her or I’ll be forever tormenting you, Gabrielle. You left her there, now ‘you’ get her back."
Ares put away his sword and in an instant, he vanished. But Gabrielle knew it wouldn’t be long before he would return. She turned to extinguish the destruction that Ares had created behind her, only to find that everything seemed strangely untouched. As she looked to the sky, the dawn had just begun to rise. It was going to be a beautiful day, she could tell by the sunrise, yet deep inside of her, was a thunderstorm raging. Gabrielle walked back inside. Alanna was still sleeping. She was most unlike Xena in her appearance and her manner. Alanna was petit with wavy auburn hair and the most unusual green eyes. She wondered if Xena would approve of Alanna, unaware that it was Xena’s spiritual guidance that had brought them together in the first place. Gabrielle lay down and rested her weary head that was now aching through lack of sleep and tension. She hoped that her dreams would be less traumatic, now that Ares had agreed to leave her alone for a while. But as Gabrielle lay there, she did agree with one thing Ares had mentioned.
"Where was Xena’s spirit?"
It was mid morning before Gabrielle awaked. In the last four months, Gabrielle had tried to revive the farm that Xena’s grandparents left behind. It was hard work, but Alanna had shared the same enthusiasm as Gabrielle.
Stretching herself, she wandered outside. She had been right; it was a beautiful day. Glancing across the farmyard, the sunlight was blinding her eyes. Alanna was raking the stones out of the soil in the soon to be, new vegetable patch.
"Morning, Alanna," waved Gabrielle. Alanna peered up. Shielding her eyes out of the sun, she smiled back.
"Afternoon, Gabrielle."
Gabrielle walked over to Alanna.
"How did you sleep after your nightmare?" asked Alanna.
"Very good actually," replied Gabrielle."
"No dreams of Ares this time then?" Alanna queried.
Gabrielle put her head down.
"No, I don’t think I will for a while now. Alanna, I really need to tell you something important about Ares."
Gabrielle put her hand on Alanna’s shoulder.
"Sure, what is it?" Alanna asked, concerned.
"This may come as a shock to you, but I can actually command Ares to my side whenever I want him and he came to me this morning while you slept."
Alanna’s mouth hung open.
"Gabrielle, are you sure you weren’t having another nightmare?"
Gabrielle chuckled.
"No, Alanna, I wasn’t dreaming. Ares is in love with Xena, he’s still trying to find her spirit, so he’ll speak to me whenever I like."
"Wow, command him now, Gabrielle, go on, just for a laugh. I want to see what the God of war looks like."
Gabrielle’s face filled with concern.
"Don’t mess about with Ares, Alanna, he’s dangerous. He’s very angry and still grieving for Xena. Believe me, it won’t be for a laugh."
"Oooh, I’m scared," Alanna giggled.
As she involved herself with the raking once again, Gabrielle feared that Alanna hadn’t listened to her warning. A wave of doubt washed over Gabrielle and she hoped she hadn’t given Alanna any ideas on commanding the God of war to her side. Gabrielle decided to leave Alanna to her work, before she had any more regrets.
"I’m going to freshen up and then I’m going to the next village for some supplies. I’ll be back before sunset. Take care in this sun, it’s going to get really hot today Alanna?"
Still grinning from ear to ear at Gabrielle’s story, Alanna nodded.
"Yeah, don’t worry about me, I’ll have this soil ready for sowing by tomorrow. See you later."
Gabrielle smiled wearily at Alanna and went to collect her things. It was nearly midday and becoming excruciatingly hot. Alanna walked over to the barn for a shade and saw Gabrielle loading the cart with sacks. Alanna waved Gabrielle off and decided to tidy the barn. She had always wanted a goat for some strange reason and Gabrielle had said that she could have one, as long as she tidied the barn up herself. As Alanna worked, she began to think about what Gabrielle had told her that morning.
"So, Gabrielle can command, Ares, God of war, whenever she likes, can she? Well if Gabrielle can, maybe I can."
Alanna sat down on the bails of hay, wiping her brow and considered daring herself to command him.
"What will I say I want him for if he does appear?"
Alanna bit her lip and decided her idea was best left untouched. She fetched the broom from the yard and started to sweep. Discovering her jobs were boring made her crave for some excitement.
"Dare I, dare I not," she kept thinking to herself. She started to joke and dance around whispering Ares’ name and chuckling. She raised her arms high in the air, waved her broom and spun around.
"Oh Ares, God of war, here my plea, come and clean this barn for me."
Alanna collapsed on the hay giggling with excitement, not expecting Ares to hear her, let alone appear for her. But with a blast of warm air and a flash of light, Ares did appear, right in front of her. Alanna stood up like someone had just stuck the rake in her bottom, her eyes wide in disbelief.
Ares strode over to Alanna and ran his eyes up and down her slender body, tipping his head with every curve she had been blessed with. She froze, wondering how Ares would punish her for commanding him away from his chosen battle. He walked around her, and then inhaled the fresh aroma of her hair.
"Gabrielle chose well indeed. It’s a pity I can’t say the same about you."
Alanna frowned, not understanding Ares’ statement. He turned his back on Alanna and walked away to examine his once owned farm.
"I’d like to say it’s nice to be back, but words fail me. How you mortals can call this living is beyond me."
Alanna, frightened and confused, tried to escape to the farmhouse whilst Ares was preoccupied. But rushing through the barn door, Ares was ahead of her actions. He grabbed Alanna around the waist with one arm and firmly, but gently, he threw her back into the barn. As she landed on her feet, Ares slammed the door. Alanna held her hands in front of her to defend herself.
"Ok, you can go now. I’m sorry I commanded you. I didn’t expect you to really come."
Ares grinned and winked at Alanna.
"Oh, I’ll come for sure, if the right woman commands me to."
As Ares walked over to her, Alanna accidentally tumbled backwards onto the hay bails. Ares stood in front of Alanna weighing up the situation.
"A rather awkward position to be in my dear, don’t you think, but a rather attractive one too. Now, lets see, where do we go from here, I wonder?"
Alanna pointed a finger at Ares in an attempt to threaten him.
"Don’t you lay one hand on me, you…you…"
Alanna was lost for words. Ares completed her sentence.
"God of war, I think you were meant to say. So now, let me see, if I’m a God, then I can do whatever I please. Sounds pretty cool to me."
Just as Ares reached down to Alanna, she promptly ran past him. Twisting his head around to pursue her, Ares sighed with amusement.
"The more you fight me, Alanna, the more it turns me on. I’m the God of war, baby."
Alanna managed to get outside to close the barn door. She could hear Ares laughing inside. Turning quickly to run for the farmhouse, she came face to face with him once again.
"You’re making this too easy for me, Alanna. Try a little harder."
Realising she was trapped, Alanna retreated to the barn. She waited inside, holding her breath with anticipation. Silence surrounded her.
"Boo!"
Alanna jumped and suddenly, as if by magic, Ares appeared behind her. Before she could move, he placed his hand on her abdomen and pulled her backwards, squeezing her against his body. With his godly powers, Ares filled Alanna with an orgasmic spasm that took her breath away.
"Oh, my God," Alanna breathlessly sighed.
"That’s me, sugar," replied Ares, tenderly kissing the nape of her neck.
Resting the back of her head on his chest, she was now in his control and Ares knew it. As Alanna’s knees began to weaken, Ares held her in his arms. She was unable to defend herself now, even if she wanted to. He was seducing her and he knew she was beginning to enjoy it. Ares whispered in her ear passionately.
"Now, doesn’t that feel better, Alanna? Isn’t this better than running away?"
Ares guided Alanna over to the hay bails and tenderly lay her down. She restrained herself from stopping him, unsure of her reaction to his proposition. As Ares gently climbed on top of her, their gaze was locked with a sudden undeniable passion.
Kissing her forehead down to her neck, Alanna had not the strength to fight Ares, nor the will. As he caressed her tenderly, Alanna’s body tightened with pleasure and her limbs automatically entwined around his.
She knew this was wrong, but it felt so right. Ares watched her breathless expressions and with determination in his eyes, was unable to withhold himself any longer.
"You won’t regret this, Alanna, I can assure you of that."
Re-locking the passionate embrace of their eyes, his body moulded instantly with hers. As Ares held her in his arms, the exasperations from both of them proved how electrifying their immediate passion was to be. If Alanna was to try and fight Ares, it was too late now. She had never felt so much pleasure within her own body before. His power had made her so defenceless, yet strangely; she didn’t feel any threat from him whatsoever. As their performance was coming to its peak, Ares held tight onto Alanna’s soft hair. Clinging to his arms, Alanna could feel his every muscle tense; something she had never been accustomed to before. As their passion finally came to an abrupt halt, they both lay there like long lost lovers for a while, breathless, till Alanna spoke.
"How did you make me feel like that, when I hardly know you?"
Ares lifted his head and ran his finger over Alanna’s mouth.
"That, my dear, is how you could feel every time you command it."
Kissing Alanna on the back of her hand, Ares stood. Fastening his belt, he looked down at Alanna. Feeling he had got one over on Gabrielle, Ares rubbed salt into the wound.
"Give my regards to Gabrielle, when you see her, Alanna. Don’t forget to tell her I called by."
Blowing a seductive kiss to Alanna, Ares disappeared. She closed her eyes, wondering whether it was regret at betraying Gabrielle’s affections that troubled her, or whether it was the guilt of enjoying her discretion with Ares. Falling asleep, it was early evening when she awoke to the sounds of Gabrielle shouting for her attention.
"Alanna, come out here please. I need your help."
Alanna jumped up and noticing her ruffled clothes, remembered what she had done with Ares that afternoon. Re-arranging herself, she ran outside.
"I’m here Gabrielle," Alanna mumbled.
Gabrielle appeared shocked.
"Are you still working in the barn, Alanna? You look exhausted."
As Gabrielle jumped down from the cart, grinning from ear to ear, Alanna felt guilty that she’d been romping with Ares in the barn that afternoon, instead of working. Gabrielle opened the barn door.
"Alanna, this is amazing. You really want that goat don’t you," she laughed, wrapping her arms around Alanna’s neck.
Alanna peeped over Gabrielle’s shoulder at this so-called amazing barn and couldn’t quite believe her eyes. The barn was tidy, with everything in its place. All Alanna needed was the goat to make it complete. She couldn’t understand how all of this work got done.
"How did you manage this all on your own?" asked Gabrielle. Alanna shrugged her shoulders.
"I just really want that goat, Gabrielle," she smiled, relieved that Gabrielle believed she could achieve all of this.
"Come on," jeered Gabrielle to Alanna, "come and see what I’ve brought."
As Gabrielle walked away, Alanna looked back at the barn.
"Ares must have done what I asked him to do," Alanna mumbled.
"What did you say, Alanna?" shouted Gabrielle from the cart.
"Nothing, Gabrielle. I was just singing," Alanna lied.
"Then get you pretty butt over here now and give me a hand with these supplies."
Chatting together, they unloaded the cart. That evening they sat outside drinking wine that Gabrielle had brought earlier that day.
"You’re very quiet tonight, Alanna, is everything ok?" asked Gabrielle concerned.
Alanna tried to erase any memories of that afternoon while she sat with Gabrielle.
"Yeah, I’m just a bit tired from working today."
Gabrielle wrinkled her nose into a smile.
"Well, you sure must have sweated in that barn this afternoon, Alanna, it’s no wonder you feel tired."
Alanna fidgeted and changed the subject promptly, recalling her actions of that afternoon.
"Gabrielle, it took you five months to tell me how you can command Ares, what other things haven’t you told me about?"
Gabrielle looked down, tapping the side of her goblet with her finger.
"I think you should read some of my scrolls, Alanna, because I just don’t know where to start."
Alanna paused for a moment. Looking Gabrielle face on she asked," and will you give me all of them, or will you hide some from me?"
Gabrielle looked Alanna in the eye.
"Are you angry with me about something, Alanna?"
Taking a deep breath and a risk, Alanna decided to air a few feelings.
"Well, it’s like we’re carrying Xena around with us all the time, and to me, three is a crowd."
Gabrielle stood and shook her head in disbelief.
"I can’t believe you just said that, Alanna. If you have a problem with my feelings for Xena, you’ll have to sort them out. I can’t just forget about her."
As Gabrielle stomped off to the farmhouse, Alanna ran after her raising her voice.
"So would it be alright for me to carry someone else around in my heart then, Gabrielle?"
Alanna soon realized she was confessing her feelings for Ares. This afternoon was pretty amazing. Ares was pretty amazing. But anxious about her thoughts, Alanna tried to make amends.
"Gabrielle, wait please. We’ve come too far for this. I guess I just need reassuring that you care about me. Why don’t you ever tell me?"
Gabrielle turned to look at Alanna and holding her face in her hands, Gabrielle had tears in her eyes.
"I’m afraid of losing you too. Don’t you see?"
As Gabrielle broke down and cried on Alanna’s shoulder, Alanna vowed not to let Ares control her again. Gabrielle couldn’t cope with any more pain. But Alanna had already lied to Gabrielle once; maybe Ares would persuade her to do it again.
"Come on, Gabrielle, it’s been a long day, let’s get some rest," added Alanna.
The night became morning as Gabrielle told Alanna stories about her daughter, Hope, Xena, and all the Olympian Gods. Alanna became very interested in stories of Ares, but found a jealous rage inside of her when Gabrielle told of Ares’ love for Xena. Both the people whom Alanna cared for, both loved Xena too. Gabrielle smiled wearily and turned to Alanna.
"So, any questions Alanna?"
"Yeah, loads, but I think we’d better get some sleep now, don’t you?" giggled Alanna.
"Thank goodness for that," laughed Gabrielle.
It wasn’t long before Alanna fell into a deep sleep, as usual. Gabrielle’s mind was alive with the thoughts of Xena. The night was hot and sticky, so Gabrielle took a walk outside. Looking up at the stars, she sat and thought of her lost friend. Picking a stick up off the floor, Gabrielle wrote Xena’s name in the dust.
"How I wish I knew where you were, Xena," she whispered.
Gabrielle felt a pleasant gust of wind engulf her and inhaled the freshness it sent. She thought she heard a voice in the breeze.
"I’m here, Gabrielle. I’ve missed you so much."
"Xena?" Gabrielle whispered.
As she looked to her side, a wonderful vision of Xena came before her eyes. Choking back her tears, Gabrielle struggled to speak.
"Xena, I’ve missed you, where have you been?"
Xena’s reply was so genuine to her nature.
"You know me, Gabrielle, always on a mission, only time passes by so slowly in the after world. I’ve never forgotten you, believe me."
"Oh, Xena, I wish you were still with me. Ares has been tormenting my dreams, he can’t find you and he blames me for your death."
Xena, already realising this, tried to reassure Gabrielle.
"I’m so sorry, Gabrielle, but that is how it has to be for now. If Ares finds me, I won’t be able to protect you or Alanna. He’ll watch every move I make. Your friend, Alanna, needs our help; she is in danger. Ares has chosen her to become his wife and bear his heirs. She will be frightened enough to let him fulfil this. We have to stop Ares before it’s too late."
Gabrielle frowned, "Xena, Alanna is too innocent to fall for Ares. He would put fear within her, if she ever met him, that is."
Xena pitifully smiled and tried to explain.
"Gabrielle, Ares came to Alanna yesterday and he somehow seduced her. They were making out in the barn all afternoon. Alanna is too afraid to tell you, but she is not to blame. He has this power over her."
Gabrielle put her head in her hands.
"No, no! Why is he doing this to me, Xena? Why is he punishing me for your actions?"
Xena explained to Gabrielle the reasons for Ares’ behaviour.
"Ares is trying to create a legion of his own flesh and blood to rule with him at his side. He’s chosen Alanna to satisfy his urge. He knows I’ll try to stop him. If I don’t, then they will destroy mankind, as we know it. By punishing you, he’s stirring up my emotions in the hope of an appearance, therefore claiming my spirit."
"But how can you be sure of your safety right now, Xena?"
Xena smiled, "Oh, don’t worry about Ares, I’ve just sent his army in the wrong direction. He’ll be very busy for a while."
Giggling together, Gabrielle suddenly had a dreadful thought.
"So, if Alanna and Ares were together yesterday, are you telling me Alanna is carrying Ares’ child now?"
Xena answers the question that she knows will destroy her best friend.
"If I know Ares, then yes, Gabrielle, I think she is."
Trying to remain in control, Gabrielle asks for Xena’s help.
"What are we going to do, Xena?"
Xena attempts to explain a difficult plan.
"We need help off the God, Hephestus."
Gabrielle looked confused as she reminded Xena of their past.
"Hephestus is dead, Xena. You killed him yourself."
Xena nods with enthusiasm.
"Yes, Gabrielle, but can you remember where the cavern is that holds the eye of Hephestus?"
Frowning, Gabrielle answered Xena with reservation.
"Yes, I think so, Xena, why?"
Xena continues with her tactics.
"If we can get Ares inside the cavern and activate the eye of Hephestus, it will entomb him, he cannot escape. The power of the eye is too strong for Ares to fight. As long as ‘my’ chakram initiates the eye, then only a descendant of mine can release him. No one will know he’s there but us. I will need your strength though, Gabrielle. I won’t be strong enough to fight Ares until you instigate the eye with my chakram, releasing Hephestus’ powers down upon me giving me the power of a God."
Gabrielle frowns with confusion, unable to take in Xena’s instructions clearly.
"I don’t know if I understand all of this, Xena."
Smiling down at Gabrielle, Xena wishes she could wrap her arms around her.
"Just tell Ares you’re meeting me there tomorrow evening, Gabrielle, and he’ll turn up. It will all become clear then. But be very careful when you get to the cavern, the place is filled with traps. Get some rest now Gabrielle and don’t forget that I love you."
As Xena’s image disappeared, Gabrielle lay down on the dusty ground and cried.
"I love you too, Xena."
Next morning, Gabrielle awoke to Alanna shouting her name.
"Gabrielle, are you alright? Did you fall or something?"
Alanna helped Gabrielle stand and dusted down her hair. Remembering what Xena had told her about Alanna and Ares, made Gabrielle feel sick inside. Just the thought of him touching and caressing Alanna churned her up.
"I’m ok," Gabrielle replied firmly. "I must have had too much wine last night, that’s all."
Alanna frowned.
"You didn’t have that much, Gabrielle, we drank the sa…."
Gabrielle interrupted Alanna sternly.
"Well I came out and drank some more, ok. I just couldn’t bear to sleep next to you last night."
Alanna removed her hand from around Gabrielle. She was hurt by the statement.
"Why not, Gabrielle. Why couldn’t you bear to sleep with me?"
Gabrielle thought about what Xena had told her. Alanna was not to blame. Ares had an irresistible power over her. If Gabrielle allowed Ares to destroy her, then he would have won this immature battle, in which he persistently pursued with her. As difficult as she found it, Gabrielle put her hands on each of Alanna’s shoulders.
"I couldn’t bear to sleep next to you, Alanna, because….., because it was just too hot, so I slept outside."
Alanna’s face broke into a smile as she squeezed Gabrielle’s arm with affection.
"For a moment there you had me worried, Gabrielle. I thought I’d done something wrong."
Linking her arm up with Gabrielle’s, Alanna face filled with relief.
"If you were worried, Alanna, does that mean you have something to tell me?" queried Gabrielle, unsure of whether she wanted to hear the truth.
Gabrielle awaited an answer off Alanna, but the hesitation in Alanna’s voice only proved Xena’s story to be right. Alanna hung her head low.
"Don’t be silly, Gabrielle, I just know things have been difficult for you lately."
Walking back into the farmhouse, Gabrielle had already made her plans for the day.
"Today, Alanna, I think you ought to buy yourself that goat you’ve always wanted. Take the cart with you; I won’t need it. I’ll work on the farm today, you did enough yesterday."
Alanna jumped up and down for joy.
"Oh, Gabrielle, this has made me so happy, thank you."
Running off to prepare herself, Gabrielle had to sit down and think.
"I must command Ares to let him know about Xena, but I just don’t know if I can face him."
As Alanna left the farm excitedly on the cart, Gabrielle waved her off.
"Don’t hurry back Alanna, I have lots of things to sort out today."
As soon as Alanna had disappeared out of sight, Gabrielle knew what she had to do.
"ARES, I WANT TO SPEAK WITH YOU, NOW."
As Gabrielle waited, there was no response off Ares.
"ARES, I NEED TO TALK TO YOU."
Again Gabrielle waited, but Ares did not show up.
"Ok, I’m asking you now Ares, so come on."
With Ares’ usual entrance, he appeared.
"See what you get when you ask nicely, Gabrielle," Ares sneered.
"And did you ask Alanna nicely if you could have your way with her, Ares?" Gabrielle replied.
Ares laughed.
"Gabrielle, I don’t have to ask, I’m the God of war; no one refuses the God of war. However, I can assure you, Alanna had no regrets about us. She didn’t put up much of a fight to my disappointment, but she certainly co-operated once she got a big load of me. Yep, you can safely say that there is a little bit of me in Alanna now, just crying to get out."
Charging at Ares, Gabrielle thumped and kicked him repeatedly. Ares grabbed hold of her by her arms to restrain her.
"Don’t make this difficult for yourself, Gabrielle. Let Alanna come to me and I will leave you alone, forever.
Releasing herself from Ares’ grip, Gabrielle stepped back.
"Forever is a long time, Ares. You didn’t get Xena and I will do my best to stop Alanna falling into your trap."
Ares attempted another approach.
"Well, maybe it’s too late for you to prevent Alanna from coming to me, Gabrielle. She will need me more than ever soon. My plans for Alanna go way further that a roll in the hay. She is my future. What I have to offer her will outweigh your feeble mortal life together forever."
Shaking her head, Gabrielle disagreed.
"You’re wrong Ares. You can offer her nothing. You lie, you cheat, and you don’t know the first thing about love. Alanna needs love, not your pretence."
Smirking at Gabrielle, Ares was overwhelmed with his latest performance.
"Alanna got everything she needed yesterday, Gabrielle. It seems there’s nothing more to say, she’ll be on her back for me another day."
Gabrielle bit her lip in anger and anticipation.
"And what about Xena, have you given up on her already? Isn’t Alanna just Xena’s replacement till you find her?"
Ares screwed up his face at Gabrielle’s comment as he pointed his finger at her.
"You’ve got a nerve, bitch. You’ve got feelings for Alanna too you know. Don’t always point the finger at me when you too soon forgot about, Xena. I warned you, find her and I will leave you alone."
Gabrielle realised that firing up Ares’ temper will only infuriate his revenge at her.
"And what about, Alanna? Will you leave her alone too?"
As Ares turned his back on Gabrielle shaking his head, his reply confused her.
"That, will be Alanna’s decision, but I can assure you, Gabrielle, she won’t turn down my offer."
Turning to leave, Ares had one last thing to say to Gabrielle.
"Don’t command me again, Gabrielle, unless you have found, Xena. I’m not interested in your silly arguments anymore, I have more important things to do, like ‘WARS TO FIGHT’."
Sensing that she may be losing this battle forever, Gabrielle confessed.
"Ares, I have found, Xena, she came to me last night."
Ares approached Gabrielle with the force of strength that lifted her off the ground by her throat. Gritting his teeth, he managed to resist killing her.
"I knew it. I knew she’d come. Where is she you bitch?"
Throwing Gabrielle to the floor, forsaking her life for an answer, Ares waited for Gabrielle’s reply.
"She told me to meet her at the cavern that holds the eye of Hephestus tomorrow evening. It’s where her spirit has been hiding."
Punching the air, Ares made it quite clear he was pleased.
"YES! Now, why didn’t I think to look there? Gabrielle, you have just extended your life for one more day. Make the most of it."
Walking away from Gabrielle without any concern for her welfare, Ares sighed with the contentment of boredom.
"Now, what shall I do next? I know, I can go and see a peasant girl about a goat. I’ll see you tomorrow, Gabrielle. Don’t be late."
As Ares disappeared, Gabrielle wandered back into the farmhouse, weak and choked by the God of war. It was obvious he was going to meet Alanna at the market now. There was nothing Gabrielle could do.
"Please, Xena, if you can hear me, watch over Alanna, guide her to make the right decisions."
As Gabrielle curled up and fell asleep, Ares followed Alanna and made her day as difficult as possible. If he achieved this, then meeting him later would only become a bonus for her. As her last attempt to buy herself a goat failed, she decided to head for home. She pulled the cart up to the barn and jumping down she peered inside. As she poked her head around the door, there in front of her was the most lovable goat she had ever seen. Cupping her hands, she gently walked over to it. A voice behind Alanna startled her.
"Beautiful, isn’t she?"
As she turned, Ares was sat in the corner of the barn, chewing on a hay stalk.
"She’s beautiful, just like you are," he repeated.
Alanna was unsure about his comment.
"Ares! Look, I don’t want any trouble, I just want you to leave us alone."
"Relax, Alanna. Just thought you might like the little gift I got you, that’s all."
Alanna looked back at her goat. She loved her, what else could she say. As the goat ran over to Alanna, she held out her hands to love it.
"I’m not here to cause trouble, Alanna, even though my good reputation would disagree. I have an offer for you."
Alanna shook her head.
"I don’t feel so well, Ares, I’m going inside to Gabrielle."
Jumping up to Alanna’s aid, Ares restrained her from leaving the barn.
"It’s not Gabrielle’s help you need now, Alanna, it’s mine."
Unsteady on her feet, Alanna tried to push Ares to one side, furious at him.
"Don’t tell me what I need, Ares, what do you know about me?" yelled Alanna.
Striding over to steady Alanna’s steps, Ares realised she was weak.
"I know that you feel something for me, Alanna, so it’s no use denying us. You can’t tell me you didn’t enjoy yesterday, your satisfaction was written all over your face. That’s how much I know you. I’ve been watching you for some time now."
Sitting Alanna down on the hay, Ares looked into her eyes. His meaningful brown eyes were captivating Alanna’s heart once again.
"No, Ares, the experience you gave me yesterday, was one of which you created, it wasn’t from your heart."
Still staring into each other’s eyes, there still remained an undeniable passion between both of them. Ares raised his hand to Alanna’s cheek.
"I may be the God of war, Alanna, but I can still give you all the love you’ll ever need and I think you know that, don’t you?"
As he tipped his head towards Alanna to kiss her, there were no godly powers. For the first time, their lips met naturally, and naturally, but unsure, Alanna responded. As Ares’ enthusiasm pushed Alanna back onto the hay, she found it difficult to resist him. How she could betray Gabrielle’s friendship so easily; she didn’t know. She felt so honoured that the God of war had come to her side again, especially without any command. Her will to fight him though was stronger this time. As she gently pushed him away, Ares looked Alanna in her eyes before she could speak and made her his ultimate offer.
"Marry me, Alanna. Become my Goddess and bear our children. You can have what you desire and live forever. No-one will ever threaten you again."
Ares held Alanna’s face, so she could not turn away, willing her to say yes. But he got an unexpected request for his answer.
"And what about, Gabrielle?"
Releasing Alanna’s face, Ares shook his head.
"Talk about Deja-vous. What is it with that woman?"
Growing weaker, Alanna’s thoughts were diverted.
"I don’t know, Ares. I don’t feel well. I want, Gabrielle."
Ares comforted Alanna, in a way only the God of war could.
"Gabrielle won’t help you now, Alanna. She despises you. She found out about our little discretion in the hay."
A look of disbelief crossed Alanna’s face.
"How could you tell her about us like that? I actually thought you cared about me."
Ares stood proud and tall.
"I do care about you, Alanna, which is why I have chosen you for my wife. It was Xena who told Gabrielle about us. You deserve better. All Gabrielle desires is Xena, you know that surely?"
Alanna was still unsure of Ares’ story.
"How could Xena tell Gabrielle, Ares, if she’s dead?"
Trying to appear concerned over Alanna’s grief, Ares could only rejoice at her heartbreak.
"Yes, I know what you’re thinking, Alanna. Three is a crowd, isn’t it? She’s been with you both all along. That’s how deceitful Gabrielle is. She betrayed your trust first."
As Alanna lay her head down on the hay, thoughts of becoming Ares’ Queen seemed to become an option. He would never leave her alone now. Without Gabrielle, whom could she turn to? Ares may not be the perfect partner, but he had offered to look after her. But it was the thought of immortality that was to persuade her if anything. Alanna looked to Ares for support.
"I can’t make a decision right now, Ares, my head is spinning. I feel so ill."
Concerned for Alanna’s health, Ares picked her up in his arms and took her away to the cavern where he was to hopefully discover Xena’s spirit. He knew why Alanna had felt so ill; he had planned it all perfectly. Once there, Ares lay Alanna’s head down on his knees as he sat against the wall in a corner. As she opened her eyes, fear ran through her body as she realized she did not recognise this dark place. She held on tight to Ares’ arm, for fear of him leaving her there, too afraid to ask any questions. As the pain inside Alanna grew, she remembered Gabrielle’s story of her child, Hope. She feared that it might have been possible that she was carrying the child of Ares. Alanna felt angry with him but she tried to remember what Gabrielle had said about Ares. ‘He does what he thinks is right for the God of war, so how can he be wrong.’ It gave Alanna a small bit of comfort. Too frail to fight, Ares had made Alanna vulnerable and defenceless and now she needed him, just as he said she would.
When Gabrielle woke next morning, every muscle ached in her body. She desperately searched for Alanna after noticing the cart outside and a goat inside the barn. She sat down to think where Alanna might have gone. Unsuccessful in her search, Gabrielle knew time was precious, so collecting some of her scrolls, Xena’s chakram and some water; she headed off on her horse for the cavern that held the eye of Hephestus. It was hot and Gabrielle was injured. Setting out now would give her more time.
"Maybe, just maybe, Ares has taken Alanna there with him to meet, Xena," Gabrielle thought aloud.
"If Alanna is carrying his child, Ares will be protecting her," thought Gabrielle.
She was sure Ares had only chosen Alanna because of his hatred for herself.
After travelling for half the day, Gabrielle sat down to rest by a creek. Fetching her most important scrolls out of her bag, she began to unroll them. These were of Xena’s happier times. She had wanted to keep them close to her, for fear of her fate at her next destination. Suddenly feeling unnerved about what lay ahead, Gabrielle willed Xena’s spirit to her side. But it was not to be. After resting for a short while, Gabrielle packed her things and set out on her journey once again. Remembering how frightening it was when she gave birth to Hope, she could only wish that Alanna were safe. Gabrielle had Xena to help her then. Who had Alanna got now?"
Back at the cavern, Ares was still awaiting Gabrielle and Xena’s arrival. Still sitting with Alanna, he looked around. He noticed a stone tomb that lay opposite him and above it was the eye of Hephestus. Because the God, Hephestus, had died at the hands of Xena, Ares didn’t feel any threat at being there. It was believed that when Hephestus was alive, the two Gods hated each other.
Looking down at Alanna, Ares had no regrets about his actions; he was in control of his destiny now. It didn’t affect the God of war who he hurt her in the process, as he guessed he could persuade Alanna to marry him with his promises. He believed Alanna was his chosen one, that she would stand by his side and remain loyal to him forever. But if she defied his offer, he would take their child away. She had no choice as far as Ares was concerned.
Hearing footsteps, Ares saw Gabrielle enter the cavern, looking scared.
"Xena, I’m here?" she whispered.
As soon as Gabrielle spoke, the ethereal image of Xena appeared before the stone tomb, opposite Ares.
"Hello, Ares. Looking for me?" Xena asked sarcastically.
The look of lost love was evident in Ares’ eyes. As he laid Alanna’s head gently on the ground, he slowly strolled towards Xena, shaking his head in disbelief.
"Xena, I see you can still sense me, just like the good old days."
Alanna sat up, as she suddenly felt Xena’s presence.
Raising an eyebrow, Xena glanced at Alanna, then back at Ares.
"Looks like someone’s been a busy boy then, Ares. I thought your child with Hope, or should I say monster, would have put you off children for life."
Turning around, Ares smiled awkwardly at Alanna. Whispering back to Xena, he admitted his dishonesty to her.
"Alanna, doesn’t quite know about that yet, Xena, could you kind of keep quiet about it for now, hey?"
Alanna tried to listen to Ares’ whispers as he continued.
"Hope was a mistake, she was a psychopath to put it bluntly. She wasn’t what you would call, wife, material," persisted Ares.
As he reached out to touch Xena’s hand, he realised his Godly powers were not strong enough to feel her spirit.
Seething with rage, he turned to Gabrielle in anger.
"See what you have done to her, you numbskull. Now I am really going to finish you off for good."
Gabrielle ran over to Alanna, sure that Ares would not put the child she was suppose to be carrying, in any danger.
"Run, Gabrielle, quickly," Xena instructed.
Confused, Ares looked back at Xena.
"Why do you still care for her, she’s the one who let you die?"
Xena raised an eyebrow at Ares’ statement.
"What’s wrong, Ares, worried you’ll have to give up your immortality for me again?"
Reaching Alanna, it was apparent to Gabrielle that she was definitely with child. She placed her hand on Alanna’s stomach and stroked her head that was moist from her discomfort.
"Don’t worry, Alanna, I’m here now. I know what to do," reassured Gabrielle.
The truth of her Alanna’s sickness had been confirmed. Gabrielle looked towards Xena.
"We have to get Alanna out of here, Xena."
Ares, fuelled with anger, marched over to Gabrielle.
"Take your hands off her, Gabrielle. She’s staying with me, where she belongs."
With his powers, Ares threw Gabrielle against the stone tomb. Alanna, frightened at witnessing the violent side of Ares, grew alarmed for her friend’s safety. Walking over to Gabrielle, Ares found great pleasure in threatening her for the very last time.
"I’m going to cut off your limbs one by one, Gabrielle, till you squirm with mercy to die."
Raising his sword over Gabrielle as she shielded her body, Xena and Alanna scream out together to stop him.
"ARES, NO."
Glancing round, Ares stared at Xena, then at Alanna. As Alanna held his gaze, it was her eyes that captivated Ares’ heart this time. She pleaded with him once more.
"Don’t do this, Ares, please. Just leave Gabrielle alone and take me with you. I’ll give you what you want."
Whilst Ares was preoccupied with Alanna’s request, Xena found the perfect opportunity for her long awaited plans to fulfil themselves.
"Gabrielle, throw the chakram, now!"
Struggling, Gabrielle aimed the chakram at the eye of Hephestus and threw as quickly as she could. Ares, confused at Xena’s plans, struck a fire bolt into the air in an attempt to deflect the chakram. As if it had all been planned, Ares’ fire bolt and the chakram smashed perfectly into the eye of Hephestus. The force of both the Gods strengths colliding caused an explosion of power that blasted Ares to the ground. The chackram dropped to the floor, broken in half from the forces of the two Gods. Suddenly, a ray of red light shone down from the eye onto the tomb close to where Ares was standing. He covered his eyes, his vision intensely blinded by the light. There was a sound of grinding rock, as the lid of the tomb began to slide open.
Xena stepped in front of Ares, obstructing the beam with her body, which somehow gave her the strength of Hephestus. Ares stood up opposite Xena, holding onto each other’s arms as their eyes met. Quickly holding her hand with the relief of her touch, Ares kissed her fingers and slyly grinned.
"Xena, you’ve come back to me. I can feel all of your beauty again."
Alanna could now see Xena for the first time and also the love that Ares felt for her. As the cavern began to rumble, there wasn’t much time left before they would all become trapped within its walls. Xena knew she must hurry.
"Gabrielle, get Alanna out of here, now, I will deal with Ares myself."
Realising what was happening, Ares pushed Xena aside and pointing at Alanna, made a last attempt to stop her.
"You stay here, woman, do you hear me? You know I’ll come back for you, and it won’t be so pretty next time."
Using her given strength, Xena kicked Ares under his chin to distract him from corrupting Alanna’s mind.
"It seems to me that you’re torn between two lovers, Ares," stated Xena.
As he fell backwards onto the stone tomb holding his jaw, he looked offended at Xena.
"After all I did for you and your daughter, this is my repayment."
Xena flicked her hair back from her face.
"I re-paid your kindness when I gave you your Godhood back, Ares. I owe you nothing now."
Growling, he smacked Xena to the floor with the back of his hand. As Xena fell, she revealed the eye’s beam upon Ares again. As he struggled to search for Alanna, he was unaware that the eye of Hephaestus was now seizing his energy as he stood in its ray. Xena had to create time to help Gabrielle and Alanna escape. Whilst on the ground, she took the opportunity to kick Ares’ feet from underneath him, forcing his body to come crashing down a second time. As he landed without dignity, Ares realised his strength was becoming weaker. Looking at his open palms, fear ran through his body. He raised his head to Xena.
"What’s happening? What have you done to me, Xena?"
Seeing the look of despair in Ares’ eyes distressed Xena.
"It isn’t me, Ares, it’s the eye of Hephestus. You’ve been obstructing the beam and it’s stealing your strength and using it against you."
Suddenly moving out of the beam and realising he’d been set up by Xena; Ares panicked.
"I’ve got to get out of here before it’s too late," he declared.
Xena held onto his arm.
"It’s already too late, Ares. I’m sorry, but I couldn’t let you go through with this."
Pursing his lips at Xena, Ares looked around the cavern for Alanna.
"You won’t get away with this, Xena. I am going to rule the world and no-one, not even you, can stop me."
Realising time was scarce; Xena knew she had to hurry.
"We’ll soon see about that, Ares."
With the help of her given strength plus the weakening of Ares, Xena gave him a mighty push backwards.
"Come on, Ares, call yourself a God. Show me what you’ve got."
As Ares tumbled backwards, he tripped over a rock on the ground, almost falling into the tomb. Waving his arms to keep his balance, Xena gave him one last kick to the chest that was to condemn the weakening God to the tomb that awaited him. As Ares grabbed onto her arms in an attempt to pull himself out, he only gave Xena the added advantage of holding him down even longer. But as the beam of the eye began to fade, to Ares’ horror, the lid on the tomb was beginning to slide over him. As he struggled to release himself, Ares discovered his strength was quickly returning, whilst Xena’s was diminishing right in front of him. Grinning at Xena as she grew weaker, Ares gloated at her.
"I told you no-one could stop me, Xena. Not even you. Now get out of my way."
Stepping away from the tomb, Xena was too weak and powerless to fight him any longer. Gabrielle looked on, as her worst fears were becoming a reality. But as Ares victoriously attempted to sit up, he realised his lower body was now trapped within the tomb.
"No, this cannot be. You won’t get away with this, Xena."
As the lid began to slide over his upper body, Ares lay down in the hope that the Godly powers within his hands would prevent the tomb from closing. But although his strength had returned, he was not strong enough to fight the seal of Hephestus.
As Xena stood aside from the tomb, she felt overwhelmed with sadness. She used to despise Ares so much, but since saving Eve and Gabrielle’s life by giving up his immortality, she had only honour for him. But this time, he had taken his Godhood too far. The world did not need more than one war leader.
Xena’s spirit returned as the beam from the eye finally faded to the sound of the tomb lid dragging itself across the casket, forging itself together.
Looking back at the horror of Ares trapped inside the tomb, Alanna thought she heard him call out her name. She felt sickened with grief as her feelings for Ares had grown stronger, but the God of war would have been no match for this gentle peasant girl.
The final stone door that was to lock Ares inside the cavern inevitably was beginning to drop. Gabrielle shouted to Xena.
"Xena, get out of there. Your job is done, come on."
Looking at Gabrielle, Xena smiled wearily.
"I can’t, Gabrielle, my spirit has to remain here. I have to be sure that Ares does not escape. This is my duty now, don’t you see? I love you, Gabrielle, but being strong isn’t about holding on, it’s about knowing when to let go. You must let go, Gabrielle and begin again."
Before Gabrielle could answer, the stone door closed on them. Thumping the door, she made a last attempt to be heard.
"Xena, don’t you leave me. Stay by my side, please, stay by my side."
Crying against the door, Gabrielle knew what her duty was to be now. Wiping her tears, she guided Alanna out of the cavern.
"Come on, Alanna, let’s get you away from here."
Settling Alanna on her horse, Gabrielle led her on an uncomfortable journey home. It was clear that Alanna had been affected by the entombment of Ares.
Conversation was strained between them both, but they knew they had to overcome this barrier in which Ares had built between them. That night, Xena came to Gabrielle in her dreams.
"Gabrielle, thank you for leaving me the scrolls. You adorned my greatest memories; I will treasure them forever. Whilst I am guarding Ares, he will not bother either of you, I will make sure of that. When my chakram broke in two, it captured within it some of the powers that were within the eye. Should anyone unite the two halves, it will activate the eye again, releasing Ares. My spirit has to remain in the cavern, then my body will regain its strength somehow and stop him fulfilling his destiny once again. But don’t worry, Gabrielle, I have the power to come to you in your dreams. You have a big journey ahead of you and I will be here to guide you.
Soon, Alanna will give birth to a daughter. The fates say you must return to your Amazon rights and take your place as Queen. The Amazons will take care of Alanna’s child. When the time is right, you must pass your right of caste to her daughter. It is her destiny to become a great Amazon Queen and with your help, she will. You must do this to protect her, Gabrielle. I will try to guide you all, you have my solemn vow."
Next morning, Gabrielle woke to find Alanna staring at her. Her time was getting close and she was suffering. Remembering her dream, Gabrielle prepared Alanna for her future.
"Alanna, there is something important I must tell you before your child is born."
Alanna held on to Gabrielle’s arm and smiled.
"I know what it is, Gabrielle. I’m destined to have a daughter who will become an Amazon Queen, aren’t I?"
Hugging each other, they realised that Xena had come to both of them in their dreams.
Releasing her grip, Alanna turned to Gabrielle.
"Thank you, Gabrielle, for everything. I’m sorry I let you down. My daughter will be very fortunate to have you guiding her."
As Alanna winced in pain, Gabrielle jumped up and held Alanna’s hands tight.
"Alanna, everything will be ok, I will make sure of that. You will never disappoint me. We will get through this together, I promise you. Let’s consider Ares’ child as a gift and nothing more."
Whilst Gabrielle fetched the needed requirements for the birth, Alanna whispered to her unborn child with a smile.
"I will name you Penthesilea, my little one. One day, the people of Greece will call you, Queen Penthesilea of the Amazons. You will follow in your father’s footsteps and lead your army into many battles no doubt. But your wars will differ from his, my child, because you will be fighting for a greater good."