Disclaimer: I don't under any circumstances own the characters of Xena Warrior Princess or Hercules. (I only wish I could own them). If the idea of Xena and Ares in love is upsetting do NOT read this story. I really have to say that I only see Xena and Gabrielle as good friends.
Author's Note: Takes Place during "The Reckoning" Thoughts in italics, telepathy in ''.
Reckoning the Thoughts
She was fighting with all her skill. The idea that this hooded man could possibly beat her was inconceivable and yet something felt strangely familiar. These moves displayed perfect technique and her opponent appeared to be testing her. He made little sound and yet she could swear he was laughing. She was ready to take him, ready to finish him off as he flipped over her head and he was gone. Vanished. She circled herself slowly trying to convince herself it was impossible; people don't just disappear. Gods damnit, she swore silently as the villagers accused her of murder. This has ruthless all over it, there's no one else it could be. She only had one question for herself, what does he want?
A shiver down her spine alerted her to the presence long before the deep seductive voice spoke. She bit back her anger and pain as he appeared before her. Damn bastard, just what is he planning?
"I want you as my Warrior Queen," he said. Warrior Queen? Didn't I just have almost all of Greece at your feet? Wasn't I already your Queen? "Just call out my name" In pleasure or pain?
She couldn't believe he'd gone through all of this just to get her back. She cursed herself for calling his name and than fought with her heart as his hand caressed her arm. She hadn't forgotten his touch, hadn't forgotten how he would hold her close at night and protect her while she slept. You might think he actually cared for me, not just the power I could attain.
"For you, I'll bring them back," he promised. An interesting development indeed, she thought. He'll bring back dead warriors, anyone I name…well all right than.
He watched her straight emotionless face as she called out the names of the villagers he himself had killed. The irritating blonde she'd picked up was getting the charges dismissed. What does one say to that?
"Marvelously manipulated, my dear." And isn't that the truth. "Your choice was all wrong of course."
"It was the right choice for me," came her solemn answer that transcended more than just this particular decision.
"Even as an adversary you're one of a kind," he praised. What else can I do but this? He kissed her hand and felt as she squeezed his in return. So she got me, what was I expecting? We at least I can keep her as an adversary and who knows maybe our destiny isn't quite as literal as I thought, either way we're still intertwined. How bad can it get? A soft whisper of a voice cut over his thoughts.
'Good-bye Ares.'
'Until next time Xena, until next time.'
-End-