Blue Moon


By Liz

br>
Xena sighed to herself, Gabrielle had went to Potetdia to visit her family leaving Xena all by herself. She needed some time to herself and she was glad Gabrielle understood. Ever since she lost her Chakram, Xena felt like she was helpless still. She didn't want to have Gabrielle worry so she proposed the idea of her going to her family. It didn't make sense to her why she felt this way but she knew one person who did know.

"I can't believe I'm doing this" xena said to herself as she jumped off Argo.She was a couple of miles away from his temple and could see the top of its roof. She decided to stop here letting Argo rest and have a drink at a pond nearby. She sat down thinking whatshe was going to do when she got there.

"Remember Xena, don't let him get to you know matter what he says" she muttered, "He is a selfish ,pompous ,bastard who kills for fun."All through the trip Xena kept repeating this. She knew it would be harder to control her dark side without Gabrielle. She jumped on Argo once more muttering the same thing over and over again.

"Remember Xena ,don't let him get to you know matter what he says.


________________________________________________________________________

Ares sat there smiling on his chair. He knew she was coming, he could feel her presence every time she was near. It puzzeled him why she didn't just call to him, it would have saved her more time, he thought. He knew why she was coming. She was going to ask him what was wrong with her.

"Oh Xena if you only knew the beginning of it "Ares laughed.

He would enjoy her little visit. He loved teasing xena to the end where she was just about going to kill him. He missed the lust of killing in her eyes. Over the years he saw it fewer and fewer in her. Ares didn't mind this at all, though, she was still his chosen.

"So thats what you call it these days " Aphrodite said as she appeared in a glimmer of pink.

"What are you talking about Aphrodite" Ares said.

"It's so obvious bro, you love the girl. Why don't you just admit it."

"Aphrodite", Ares roared ,"I do not love xena, she is just my chosen nothing more, nothing less."

"Yeah right" laughed Aphrodite, "everybody and their cousin up on Olympus knows that you got the hots for the warrior babe".

"Well if everybody knows then why are you here.", added Ares sarcastically.

"I'm here to tell you to do something about it, I mean its pretty pathetic watchin you go after Xena and get struck down. Although if I were Xena, I'd be pretty pissed too if you joined my worst enemy. That whole Dahok thing was really a bad decision."

"It was one mistake" said Ares glaring at her, "but I still don't see why you are here."

"Chill dude, no need to get your undies in a bunch, I'm just here to remind you not to make any more mistakes like that one or it will cost you a whole lot. You keep on puttin this big, bad, macho, man routine everytime you see Xena and it hasn't gottin you anywhere...but."

Ares decided to interrupt here "This isn't any of your buisness for your information and what are you talking about it will cost me a whole lot."

"I can't say, but jus tell Xena how you feel ,it would do you a world of good" with that Aphrodite disappeared into thin air, as if she had never came..

"What in the world does that sister of mine mean." Ares thought. Aphrodite did have a good idea though. Maybe he would tell Xena how he felt. "It would be a relief to get it off my chest, whatever it was"

With that the god in black leather vanished, thinking what his next move was going to be ,not knowing what he felt for the women he always thought of a warrior.


________________________________________________________________________

Xena came to her final destination. The temple of Ares had grown dirty over the years. The paint was rotting and the grass grew wildly.

"Good grief you think the Gods would take better care of their temples".

Xena reached over getting her water skin, feeling thirsty from the long ride. She jumped off Argo and began walking up the marble steps very slowly as if they led to the door of her doom.

It was always a game to him she thought where he was the winner and she was his prize. She would always have to deal with him time and time again, undue one of his spells, defeat one of his armies, or even have to overcome the desire to go back to what she was, what she feared. It was harder now that Gabrielle wasn't here. The bard had always helped with her dark side. She couldn't explain it but Ares was like a forbidden fruit that you knew it was wrong to eat but you ate it anyways. He would be so handsome and charming but would poison your mind at the same time.

She sighed at her last thought, "remember Xena this is Ares, the bastard, killer Ares" She then began to open the door recalling why she hated the War God, knowing that it was the only way she wouldn't be tempted by that forbidden fruit, as she liked to call him."


_______________________________________________________________________

A warm burst of air went through her body. This is the last thing she thought she would see in his temple since the previous times she came. It was clean and warm and in some ways comforting.

The site was breath taking, there was marble floors and elegant white candles that led the way toward to the alter. On the walls, hung crossbows and axes with the finest swords in Greece, forged by Hephaestus. The viewer could easily tell what the owner was god of.

Xena walked a little further when she felt a chill through her back. Turning around there stood the mighty God of War smiling. He was dressed in his usual leather with his hair slick backed, leaning against the wall.

"What can I do for you princess" Ares began "wait let me guess your wondering why you ever left me and now your begging for my forgiveness"

"Only in your dreams Ares "Xena laughed moving away from Ares a little, "I want you to tell me why I'm so weak, why I feel different. why.."

"Oh ",Ares interupted, "you want to know that do you. Well...Xena, information is not free you know it will cost you. I do something for you, you do something for me." Ares moved closer examining Xena, oh how he did love this.

Xena stared at him with her eyes, the blue color in it blazing in fury, "Listen up Ares, the only thing I'll ever do for you, is that when you die I will put your rotting little carcass pointed down so nobody will ever have to look at your ugly face again."

Ares only listened and then moved towards her as she stood there in silence from her latest speech. He looked her over once more gazing at her beautiful figure. The leather fitting so perfectly and tightly on her body. She was truly his chosen, what ever that meant to him now he didn't know. Aphrodites latest visit left him questioning everything about himself.

He lifted Xena's chin, now looking her in the eyes. "Do you really think I'm ugly" said Ares with a little pout on his face.

Xena breathed deeply, he was so charming, so handsome. Every time he looked at her like this, she could see him the man that was innocent and sad. The mortal Ares. She felt so wanted in his arms so safe. She would forget about everything, what he did, what he was, and who she was. At those moments all she wanted to do was stay in his arms and never let go. But it wouldn't last long she would remember Gabrielle and what he had done to her, and what it would cost her. It's not what she wanted but at the same time it was.

Xena moved away slowly recollecting herself. She didn't come this far in life to let him tear it apart again. "Ares" she said softly "I'm in no mood for your games now tell me what I need to know"

"OK Xena you won me over "replied Ares sarcasticly, "I will tell you. You see when you were all goody, peace girl without your chakram it changed you. Even though you're not like that anymore, there is still a part of you that is."

"You're not dissapointed" said Xena not believing this was the whole story.

"Not a bit, you could be all goody, peace girl. And that would be tragic my dear." Ares grinned.

"Well that would be a problem wouldn't it" Xena smirked, "I'm sure would do everything in your power to change me back to the way I was."

"Why yes Xena, I would. You are my favorite warrior." said Ares putting his arm on Xena's shoulder, sending a chill down her back.

"Yeah Ares, your favorite warrior, I guess I'll be leaving now",said Xena with a sigh picking up her sword and heading towards the door. Thinking why she even cared about what Ares thought.

"Wait" Ares yelled "We haven't seen each other in such a long time Xena. How have you been?"

Xena looked at Ares shocked. What was wrong with him? He never acted this way around her. "Ares did the Gods punish you or something. Your acting strange." she murmered.

Ares didn't know what to say. He didn't even know why he stopped her. Maybe because somewhere deep inside him said he didn't want her to go. He always loved Xena, he loved the way she fought, the way she would always foil his plans, the way her eyes lit up every time she would kill someone. What he never really understood was how he felt for her. In the past he always treated her like a warrior, but when she left he treated her like a desire something he had to have but didn't know why. And then when he was human he felt something different. He felt LOVE.

He looked over at Xena his eyes still looking at her. He didn't know why he said it he just did, "Xena ...Do you remember how it was when I was human".

Xena looked at him oddly,"Yes you almost got your self killed"

"Not that part "Ares frowned "The feelings"

"Oh....I guess you could say it was a bit easier to tolerate you." she smiled.

"Ha.. ha.. very funny Xena. Still good to know you have your sense of humor. But what I was talking about was your feelings ..towards me .."

Xena looked up at Ares, and all she saw a hint of sadness in his eyes. Why was he doing this to her. She could never forget about the things he did to her. But her heart kept reminding her of the other Ares. The one who looked at her like this all the time, the one she wanted to be with.

"Ares it's in the past, you'll never be mortal again so why bring up the memories" she said almost yelling, knowing it could never ever happen.

"I'm sorry Xena, I was just wondering" said Ares coldly as he disapeared. The light around him almost blinding Xena.

Xena shuddered a little. Ares was acting different lately. He wouldn't pester her and there were less and less wars around. and just now she could see that she hurt him. But he was the God of War how could he be hurt.

Xena walked out of his temple still not knowing what just happened. When a brightpink light appeared.

"Way harsh warrior babe. I mean I know Ares isn't the greatest but man its not like he killed you"

"Stay out of this Aphrodite, this is none of your business" growled Xena, walking over to where Argo stood.

"Hold up, Love is always my buisness"

"This is not LOVE. It's probably one of Ares little traps again to get me back.", said Xena on the verge of whacking the blonde goddess over the head with her sword.

"Oh yeah well then why was he asking about the time he was mortal." Aphrodite said almost pleading with Xena "don't you see Xena he is just as much lost as you are, when he was human he felt something and I'm sure you did too. He doesn't understand how he feels and then when he gets the courage to talk to you about, you slam a door in his face"

Xena was speechless she always thought of Ares as a killer who only thought of himself. But lately she wasn't so sure, every time she looked at him he was differnt and it scared her a little. What Aphrodite said even made her more confused, did Ares really love her?

Aphrodite looked at Xena once more seeing the conflict that went through her, "Xena, Love is a good thing. I mean what you and Ares have is true and real and untill you realize that you will never feel the extent of your happiness. I mean true love only comes once every Blue Moon. Take a chance, he might even suprise you"

Aphrodite disappeared in a glimmer of pink, leaving a tired and weary Xena.

"I guess you have a lot of thinking to do Xena "She thought to herself as she saddled Argo and started back towards Gabrielle. As she got about a mile away she turned around and looked at the temple. It was ugly and horrible on the outside but once you looked inside it was completely different.

She gave a sigh and kept going feeling like she went through hell and back. Laughing a little since she was probably the only one who actually did.


_______________________________________________________________________

"Aphrodite"Zeus called "where in world is that girl"

Aphrodite appeared fixing her dress a little, "Ok, Ok,I'm here. I was just handeling some business"

"Well, you missed a very important meeting that concerned all the Gods"

"Well just give me the scoop dad, I'm sure it wasn't that important"

"But it is Aphrodite, come with me and I'll explain everything to you. Every god must know about this for it could literally be the end of all of us if we don't.", Zeus reached for his daughters hands and led her to the table explaining everything slowly as if he really wasn't sure what had happened.


___________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

CHAPTER II

Since the beginning of time there were always myths and legends. They were told to the titans as they were children and then passed on to the Gods when their new exisistance was still young. There were many legends that the Titans passed down to the Gods, but as the gods grew more powerful and Titans were cast down to Tarterus, the legends only became known as children's tales. There was one in particular that Zeus had heard from Prometheus when he was young. It was the legend of the Devil Jade.

____________________________________________________________________

It was back in the time when the world was but a speck of dirt in the universe. Although still fresh and new, the world was plagued by a continuous war. The great ancesestors of the titans had inhabited the new world only to fight against the deadliest evil that ever plagued life as they knew it. It was called the destroyer of worlds, the mother of all evils, the apocalypse, and armeggedon. It was pure darkness that made Dahok look like an angel of goodness. But the most famous name that she went by was the Devil Jade. She was hate, anger, lust, greed, the corruption of every soul, but to the gods she was purely a story.

The legend of the devil Jade started out much like most. Jade was a child born out of the Creators of the universe. She started out like most children using her powers to create new worlds, but there was something about her that was different almost wicked. As she grew up she turned into destruction, she created everything to be destroyed. Made everything to be killed and the more she did it the stronger she got. The evil burned inside her like a fire that couldn't be put out. The violence, the hate, the power of it all only fueled her so that she became the most powerful and unstopable being of the universe, that is why they called her the Devil Jade.

The Creators soon saw the problem that the Devil girl was producing, she was still young and had not reached her full potential of strength, but if she did she would become more powerful than the creators themselves. They sought every strong being that could possibly help them. She was quite a match to be reckon with on the other hand, and more pledged themselves to her rather than suffer her wrath. For she could destroy worlds in a second and to be up against that was to give up your life.

Many others, though, joined the Creators. The ancestors of the titans were the main force behind the group to stop the girl. For they knew what evil shewould bring.

The battle raged on as she destroyed everything in her path with an occasional delay to kill a Titan or two. The Creators gave up hope when they had lost most of their force. It was a matter of time before she had conquered all and destroyed them, but something stopped her.

Though she concealed it pretty well, the creators soon found out she was in labor with child. Acting quickly they sought out for the titans and began to combine their forces to entrap her in the only object that could hold a being that strong if she had not already grown to powerful. It was the star of Castenberg.

As she screamed in pain, they were four children were born. It had drained all her energy and she lie there fainted from exhaustion. She looked so peaceful and innocent when she was asleep, but the creators knew what kind of evil she possessed. They took the children away and began circiling around chanting the songs that would soon entrap her. A blue orb grew around her as she began to awake. The Creators chanted louder as she started screaming, she was coming close to the star. It flames grew brighter, almost about to shoot out uncontrolably unable to contain the entity that was being held there. Soon it grew silent, as the Devil Jade was cast in the burning prison for eternity.

The Creators were weary for they used all their force to snare the evil destroyer, they didn't bother to look after her children. They disappeared after their mothers entrapment. Everyone searched far and wide, but they seemed to vanish. One thing that was ever remembered about them was they held a birthmark of a golden star on the palm of their hands and where ever they were they possessed great evil........

And that was how the story ended. There were many other tales like it that the Titans spoke of, so consequently it was treated like one. To the Gods it was just a story concoted by the Titans to scare children or so they thought.


_______________________________________________________________________

There was much comotion up on Olympus. After the first meeting each of the gods started getting worried so Zeus called a second one too talk more about the crisis at hand. They were all there Ares,Aphrodite, Artemis,Athena, Hera, Apollo, even Psyche was invited to attend with Cupid.

It was quite a gathering. Olympus was full of servants cattering to all the God's needs. The golden floors of the hall shinning radiantly, the walls hanging with magnificent tapestries, and Ambrosia and nectar being served every waking moment. If it had been another time, the meeting would have been mistaken for a party, but it was easily seen the frowns of all the gods and a cry or shutter from Aphrodite, that told a different story."

"This can't be happening. Not know....I don't want to DIE." Artemis sobbed.

She had been the strongest one through all of this and nobody thought she would be the first to breakdown. Aphrodite strolled over to her picking her sister up in her arms. Suppressing a sigh, she walked her over to a seat taking off her helmet and gently put her hand on her shoulder. She knew how she felt .A few days ago Zeus had told her what happened, she weaped for hours, ignoring all her duties and not coming out of her temple. It was the overwhelming fear that she was most likely gonna die, that kept her like this, that Artemis realized awhile ago. Nobody had prepared her for this. Ever since she was a infant she was taught that nothing could ever hurt a god, and for some odd reason she believed it. She actually believed she would live forever even though nothing ever really did. She looked down at Artemis seeing the goddess of the hunt weep silently. It was just a matter of time before every god ended up like this, she thought. She walked over to one of theservants picking up some Ambrosia and handing it to Artemis.

"This will make you better"

"I don't think anything will make me better now Aphrodite. I feel helpless. Aphrodite this wasn't supposed to happen. ....It..wasn't supposed to be like...."Athena started sobbing. Aphrodite gently put her arms around her sister and rocked her back and forth like you would a child.

"It'll be okay sis..It'll be okay" Aphrodite did the same rocking motion untill Artemis fell asleep from exhaustion. Artemis was the brave one ,Aphrodite thought, she was the one that would go fight untill she won, but I suppose even Artemis couldn't come to terms with the likely idea of her death. It was so foreign to other gods they merely snickered at the idea. But the time had come and the snickering stopped and nothing was left but agroup of frightened gods. "Will she be all right"

Aphrodite looked around to see the mighty King of the Gods looking ather. A sad appearance in his eyes. "She will be fine, she is just a little exhausted."

"Come with me then Aphrodite, we will leave your sister to rest." said Zeus taking Aphrodite to the hall where the other gods sat. He left her by Athena and then sat up in his thrown calling for everyones attention."I'm sure you know why we are gathered here. Are exisistance is in danger of becoming exstinct by an evil we don't even know of. If they come and release her there will be no fight no war because we will all be dead. They are not as powerful as their mother, but they are not weaker. If we are to destroy them we must find every god." Zeus quited down a bit and was hesitant to say the next thing "And also every titan."

There was a hush that came over all the gods. The Titans were cruel and stupid but they were strong at the same time. To release them from Tarterus was something never spoken of because even if the Titans could be released they could never be trusted. Every God and Every titan held anger for the other and if put together there would surely be a war.

"Release the Titans Zeus!You might as well kill us right now, they will never join usmuch less help us." Apollo proclaimed.

"I never said we were going to join them. If we let the Titans out we can harvest their power into another being. Unfortunately it doesn't work for gods. I have spoken to the fates and it is said that only a mortal can maintain all thesepowers. Ares, Athena, and Artemis" Zeus yelled "war, wisdom, and hunt ....you three must choose one human to retain the power of the Titans that has all these abilities. Choose wisely,though, for this person holds all are lives in their hands."


_______________________________________________________________________

Xena walked to where Gabrielle stood. The bard was in one of her fits because some merchant was selling scrolls at unreasonable prices. Xena went over to Argo and led her by the reigns to where Gabrielle stood.

"Why don't we just go to the next town, you can find them cheaperthere"

The bard turned around hearing the familar voice and hugged her friend. "Xena, I thought I wouldn't be seeing you this soon. When you said you had important buisness, I thought it would at least take a couple of weeks.."said the Bard laughing with joy in her eyes,"It doesn't matter anyways...So where are we headed Xena.I haven't written a good story in a long time and....."

"Gabrielle", Xena screamed, "I have had a long week. I was planning and just staying in a room and sleeping for a couple of days if thats O.k with you."

"Its fine I just thought.."

"Well I need to get some sleep if you don't mind." said Xena stepping infront of Gabrielle to check into a room. She walked to the desk where the lady stood ..grumbled a couple of times and then went up stairs leaving a much puzzled bardbehind.

Day soon turned into night and Xena was still in her room. The Bard knew something was bothering her and didn't want to disturb her untill now.If something was worring Xena she had a right to know the bard thought.Maybe should could even help her with it.She went up stairs slowly as to not wake anyone and silentlywent into the room.

There was nothing that startled her there, it was quiet and the moon shine some light in it from the window. And in the far corner lay Xena asleep, she started talking a little so Gabrielle presumed she was awake but as she moved closer..she noticed that her eyeswere still closed. "Why...Why...",Xena mumbled.

Gabrielle slowly shook Xena trying to wake her from her dream, but all Xena could say was,"why".....As a last resort to wake the warrior, the bard picked up a pitcher full ofwater that was on the table and poured it on her friend's face. With that the sleeping warrior woke up only to see the bard looking at her mysteriously.

"What did you that for",Xena growled.

"You were talking in your sleep. I tried to wake you before ,but I soon found out thiswas the only way I could."

"Well now I'm awake so you can leave" said Xena, drying herself off and getting readyto go back to bed.

"Not untill you tell me what happened when you left .Where did you go Xena? Eversince you got back you haven't been yourself and it worries me."

Xena looked in her friends eyes. She was obviously dissapointed that Xena hadn't told her what happened. She didn't even know what happened either. She sighed once moreand began to reveal everything to the bard. She told the bard practically everything except the visit from Aphrodite feeling it wasn't necessary.

"Xena why do you let him torture you like this. Its just another of his schemes to getyou back"

"Don't you think I know that Gabrielle" Xena yelled,"Don't you think everytime I see him I'm on my guard and don't you think everytime he tells me something I know he is lying ......But Gabrielle what is torchering me is that sometimes he is not lying and not trying to get me back .....and thats is what is torchering me ,not knowing whether he isgood or bad ....."

Gabrielle looked at her friend shocked."I'm sorry Xena, I'll just leave you alone now."

She headed for the door untill she heard the hushed voice of her friend.

"Wait ....I'm sorry .I shouldn't have yelled at you like that. I guess I just wasn't ready to talk about it yet."

"Its okay Xena ..."said the bard getting up,"but you really do need to get your sleep".

She blew out the candle that was lit and left. Xena closed her eyes once more and drifted off to sleep.


___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

They sat in the room arguing. Hours had passed and they still hadn't reached a decision.The two women were screeching at each other telling how wrong the other was while the god in leather sat back and watched, a little annoyed at how long this was taking.

"I don't care Artemis, Orsaf is the wisest man there is...he is perfect"

"He is a sixty year old priest. He can't even pick up sword to fight or hunt and I believe Zeus said that the mortal must have all these traits."

"Fine Artemis, let us think who has the skill of war, hunt and wisdom." ........The goddesses suddenly looked at Ares."You son of a Bitch, you knew all along and you didn't bother telling us."

"What are you talking about?" said Ares with a grin, "Oh you mean Xena, well sis you never asked for my opinion."

"Well, now I'm asking you." replied Athena almost killing Ares for not telling her.

"What is there to say Athena except she is perfect. She would have conquered all of Greece if it wasn't for that bastard son of Zeus. She is wise and is the best hunter I've seen.

"She also has no respect for the Gods. What makes you think she would help us."

"If the world is at stake, I don't think she could say NO."

"Very Well, It is agreed that we all choose Xena. Now although she might seem perfect, Ares, we must test her first. Ares you do the first test, Artemis the second, and I will do the last. If she passes we shall take her to Zeus, but if she doesn't we must choose another. The only rule is that she must never know why she is being tested, untill she passes all."

Athena stepped in front of Ares, "Your first". And with a flash of light the god in leather was gone. "I hope we made the right choice ."Athena said to her sister."I hope wemade the right choice."


___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Xena was still asleep when the God made his appearance. She could feel his presence but decided not to move. " Hello Ares, I'm guessing your bored so you payed me a visit."

"On the contrary Xena this is business, although I would never mind paying you a visit." smiled Ares moving next to the bed."I suggest you put your leathers on too, we'll be taking a little trip."

Xena only looked at Ares, "What makes you think I'm going anywhere with you."

"Fine Xena be stubborn....I'm just trying to help we could do this the hard.."

"Okay Ares." said Xena putting on her clothes."but if I find out this is one of your games...I will come after you..Got it." She sheathed her sword when she was finished and walked over to Ares. "So what now."

Ares looked at her for a second before replying,"Xena you look magnificent"

"Flattery will get you no where Ares" Xena smiled

"It was worth a shot" Ares then took Xena's arm and they vanished.


___________________________________________________________________

Xena opened her eyes to find herself in a castle. Ares was no longer with her and there didn't seem to be any escape from the room that she was in. It was large and filled with candles there were no windows and not a single piece of furniture could be found. Xena walked around some more but could find nothing strange about the room. It had not been more than couple of minutes when she heard the voices of men.

Then she saw them, there were about thirty of them. They were covered in the finest armour, and carried swords, axes, spears and arrows. She had no time to waste she yelled her battle cry flipping over the men to give her more room.

"So you want to play," She took her sword and started to slice as many men as she could. Finding there were to many she jumped on one of the men's shoulders and climbed on to the boards of the ceiling .The men were no match for Xena, though, as they climbed up she slowly killed each of them one by one. She dropped down to the floor once more and only found five more men. Her eyes were blazing with fury.They reached for their axes, sure that they could kill the women but Xena reached for her chakram and cut them before they even touched. She grabbed her sword as they began to come closer and killed each of them with a thrust towards their stomach. She sheathed her sword as she found all her enemies no longer breathing.

"Okay Ares, I played your little game what now."

There was a shimmer of light and Xena expected to see the War God but she was mistaken. In front of her stood a women no taller than herself covered in armour with a spear in her hand and a helmet on her head. "Xena this is no game. You have completed your first test but it will not be so easy next time."

"What are you talking about, I'm tired of playing these games with you gods. Now tell me what is going on or...." Xena was cut off as Artemis reached for her and they dissapeared.

She reappeared in a forest this time, Artemis still next to her.

"I know you do not trust the gods Xena, but it is in your best interest if you trust us now. For your second test you must capture the silver fox. It lies in these forests, you must bring it to me by the end of the day". The goddess then disappeared in a flash leaving Xena to herself.

"Gods don't give you much hints do they Xena. Silver Fox......where would it be?

Xena walked along the river and then around the trees. She couldn't find it. It could be a million places in the forest, she thought. She slowly walked around some more and noticed something. It was Autumn and all the leaves had fallen to the ground leaving a crunching noise everytime you stepped on them. Xena stood around for amoment and then slowly knelt down putting her ear on the ground. Then she heard it, it was so faint a sound but it was there. It was coming from the north. She looked around a moment and saw it the small Silver Fox looking directly at her. Its eyes meeting hers waiting for the slightest movement. For minutes they just stared as if sharing information.

All of sudden a twig snapped as a deer drank water. Xena looked back to only see the fox running away. She got up running with all her strength barely seeing the object of her attention in front of her. It was too fast for her, though, but she was smarter. She stopped and headed the opposite direction. Did a flip on to a tree and jumped on to the next one doing the same maneuver over and over again. When she was satisfied she jumped off yelling her warrior cry, only to land right in front of the fox so that it ran into her boots. She picked up the fidgeting animal and called for Artemis.

The glimmer of light again appeared as the image of Artemis formed. "My..my Xena..I thought you couldn't do it but you have proven me wrong. May I ask how you did it.....No mortal has ever captured the silver fox much less seen it."

"I guess you can say I knew what it was thinking." Xena smirked

Artemis looked at her puzzled, maybe Ares didn't exaggerate when he said she was perfect. Athena appeared behind her startling Xena a moment. The other goddess was nothing like her sister. She had blonde hair that reached her shoulders and was wearing a white robe that was tied around with a gold chain. She also had the look of wisdom in her face as if she knew everything there ever was to know, and this amazed Xena. All the other gods were much more childish and this shocked Xena when she saw her.

"Xena" began Athena," You have passed all the previous tests. But without having wisdom you have nothing. This test will be a riddle, it has challenged many great minds, and puzzled many thinkers. But if you get this right it will prove your knowledge and wisdom to us.
............
Its the beginning of eternity

The end of time and space

The beginning of every end

And the end of every place."


Xena thought a moment, then looked at Athena bewildered "E" she said softly not sure.

Athena only smiled at her and said yes. Ares appeared beside Athena and Artemis smiling.

"I told you she was perfect didn't I. Well now you know to believe me." Ares said moving next to Xena.

"Well I guess we need to apoligize Ares, she is no ordinary mortal." Athena proclaimed still smiling down at Xena seeing the questioned look on her face."Is something wrong dear"

"Athena why such an easy answer"

"Oh you mean for the riddle. Xena true wisdom doesn't lie in how much you know but how you use it. And that riddle has made some of the greatest thinkers go mad, because sometimes the best answer is the obvious one. Now you probably want to know what is happening and why you were being tested. Come with me Xena and all shall reveal itself."

Ares picked up Xena's hand and looked down into her face. He could sense she was perplexed. He kissed her on the cheek and she was about to scold him but only smiled knowing that he had good intentions. She held his hand tighter as they disappeared.

Athena looked at Artemis who only smiled. "Guess Xena doesn't hate the gods as much as we thought."

_______________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

When they arrived at Olympus Zeus was sitting on his thrown awaiting their appearance. The sparkling lights appeared one after another as the forms of the 4 objects came forward. No one ever mentioned to Zeus the mortal that would be chosen so it came as a shock to him to see a women standing next to Ares. It wasn't any normal women either, the person who stood in front of him had the air of a queen, she didn't seem to be afraid of him like other mortals usually were, and she wore warrior garments and weapons. What also astounded Zeus was how exceedingly beautiful she was. He had seen many women but none had her features. It would explain why his son seemed to be so fond of her, he thought. The moment they revealed themselves, Zeus noticed that Ares couldn't keep his eyes off Xena and was holding her hand at the same time. Ares had been with many women but this one seemed to provoke emotions within him that Zeus had never seen.

Athena decided to speak first coming up to Zeus "We have decided Xena is to be our chosen. We have tested her and found her to have the best skills of war, wisdom, and hunt."

"Have you told her of our plans"

"We were awaiting your approval Zeus"

He eyed Xena once more, the blue eyes looking around in confusion. He stood up and walked over to her seeing that he got her attention. She didn't seem to step back at all, though, for she felt that Gods and mortals were equal to each other and thats how she treated them.

She looked Zeus in the eye as he stood before her. She would bow down to no one and Zeus seemed to understand that as he looked at Athena.

"She has my approval" he spoke, the tips of his mouth slightly forming a smile.

Xena noticed this and raised an eyebrow to Ares who only grinned and said he likes you before walking Xena out of the room and escorting her down the hall.

She looked at Ares face and saw that it was growing tense and he was holding her hand even tighter now. "Its not a game is it Ares."

"Unfortunately its not Xena, what gave it away"

"Its not everyday I'm tested then taken to Zeus" she laughed. "but seriously Ares whats happening."

Ares looked at her worried eyes. For the life of him he couldn't tell her that the world could be destroyed in a matter of days, and that she could be the key to saving all their lives. There was always doubt among the gods that this evil could be stopped. So he knew that if there was nothing they could do Xena would blame herself, and that was something he couldn't live with.

Athena walked up to Xena seeing that she was still waiting for an answer and that Ares was unsure of telling her. Therefore she began to tell Xena the ancient story of the devil Jade. When they finished walking around and the Athena stopped talking there was nothing but silence that filled the air. Xena was still and looked at Athena her face pale from the information she just aquired. "How do you know they're here?"

"We found a star drawn out in the ground that matches the birthmarks of her children."

"Is that what your basing this on, a drawing in the dirt a child could have done." Xena yelled.

"The drawing was the size of Greece, it could only be seen from Olympus."

"How did she escape then."

"She didn't. She is still trapped in the star of Castenberg still. It is her children that we must defeat."

"I don't understand" screamed Xena "It doesn't make any sense. I don't even know why I'm here. It sounds so unreal. "She grabbed on to one of the chairs she saw and rested a bit as Ares was walking towards her. It was going to fast for her, one minute she is being tested and the next she finds out the world could be ruined by an evil she has never heard of. She put her face in her hands and sighed. Ares put his arms around her but she immediately shrugged them off.

"Xena I know this confusing for you" Athena started,"but you must listen to everything first. The children of the devil Jade are possibly the only ones that can release her. They are also the ones who can kill all of humanity. There are four of them war, plague, famine, and death. The four horsemen. If we kill them she will never be released, but if we fail she will escape from her prison and all out terror will begin, and we will die. That is why we need you Xena, the titan's power can only be contained within a human. Without it we have less of a chance at defeating them. Do you understand now."

Xena was out of her little trance now. She was no longer hysterical as she composed herself. She looked at Athena and then at Ares. It was probably hard for them too, she thought. "How long do we have"

"three days", Ares replied. "that is why we brought you here, we need to release the titans powers into you before we go any further. That is if you accept the offer"

"I accept" said Xena, coming closer to Ares. He formed a ball of light in his hands and beckoned Xena to come forward. She looked at Athena, who nodded and urged her to go. As she came closer she could feel the energy surrounding her as Ares came up to her and touched her heart with the light. Suddenly she felt a burning sensation go through her body. Feeling every muscle in pain and her mind sweeping with images she had never seen she dropped down to the floor screaming in terror. Ares dropped down beside her yelling at Athena to do something, but she was just as much confused as Ares was. Xena screams were heard throughout Olympus and soon all the gods were there. As her screams got louder, Ares grabbed onto Xena who was still convulsing in pain and wrapped his arms around her and hugged her gently. Zeus came forward as soon as he heard and touched her forhead which soon put her to sleep. Ares looked at his father, still holding a sleeping Xena, and started shouting.

"You knew she was going to be like this, you knew and you didn't do anything to stop it did you."

"Nobody knew she was going to be like this Ares, its the first time its been done." cried out Athena defending her father.

"She is right Ares, nobody knew the affects this would have onher."

Ares looked down at Xena, she was still sleeping calmly in his arms. He didn't know why he blamed Zeus, he knew this could happen when he gave her the powers, but it was the look of agony on her face and the cries of shear pain that caused his heart to ache. Ares lifted Xena up and was about to take her to a guest bedroom in Olympus when Zeus called out to him.

"She will be okay son", Ares nodded and turned back around heading to the room. Zeus knew what was going on with Ares. He sensed it the first time she came. His son was in love.


________________________________________________________________________

As Xena awoke she found herself in a elegant bedroom. It was decorated with tapestries, silk sheets, and candles. There were two tables covered with fruits and wine. She also found a balcony to the corner and her leather escort standing in it. She was still feeling dizzy when she decided to get off the bed. As she was walked wobbly to the balcony her legs became weak and she was unable to keep her balance as she toppled to the floor. Something caught her fall, though, and she was lifted up and placed right back where she started.

"Your still weak you know. Becoming a God does take the strength out of a person."

Xena stared at the God for a moment then started to laughed, "Do you always think that way when I'm around you."

"What are you talking about", Ares blushed

"You know what I'm talking about"

"Why Xena if I didn't know better, I would think your were reading my mind."

"And what if I am."

"You tell me" said Ares thinking up something horrible to do Xena, and finally grinning.

Xena knew a challenge when she saw it and began to try and read Ares thoughts again but something blocked her. She frowned and tried once more but she still couldn't do it. She looked at Ares who was only grinning widely. She never lost and she wasn't about to start now as Ares was getting ready to burst with laughter. Xena formed a ball of light behind her back and angrily threw it in his direction.

The god of war didn't stand a chance for he was laughing so hard he didn't see the object coming toward him. He fell off the chair he was sitting in and fell down hard on the floor. When he came to, he heard the laughter of women who were standing above him. Artemis, Aphrodite and Athena were roaring with laughter as Xena stood grinning giving out her arm to help him up.

Ares saw her arm and decided to take it. He wasn't mad it was nice seeing Xena laugh like that again. As he stood up he looked into Xena's eyes and found them to be quite different since she was mortal. They were not filled with hate or contempt for himlike he'd seen before but a sense of peace, and understanding.

"You noticed that too did you," said Xena cheerfully

"What," Ares answered not knowing that Xena was reading his mind.

"The hate in my eyes.. its gone. I understand so much more now. Its like a cloud has been lifted that was blinding me so many years."

"Has the hate for me gone to"

"I think its gone for especially you Ares." She grabbed his chin feeling the beard against her fingers and kissed him passionately.

Artemis, Athena and Aphrodite all disappeared as they saw what was happening. Xena and Ares needed to time alone and they understood.

When Xena finally stepped back she found a dazed god standing in front of her. She smiled and took his hands leading him to the balcony. It was dark outside and the only thing that was seen in the darkness was the light of the moon and the billions of stars suspended in the night sky. She let go of his hand and propped herself on the edge of the stone rails. "Beautiful night isn't it"

"What," Ares spoke, almost tripping himself as he walked over still a little confused.

"I said Beautiful night isn't it" she said louder

"Oh yes...Yes it is"

"I remember when I was a little girl and my mother would always have to drag me in the house to go to bed and it would make me so mad because all I wanted to do was stare at those stars for hours."

"Why"

"It was something I couldn't have. No matter how hard I would jump or run those stars would never get nearer." she laughed, "They were also there no matter what I did. A star would never judge you, never hurt you, a star was just something you could count on seeing no matter what happened." she sighed once more letting her head fall on Ares shoulder as he sat down beside her."You really do love me don't you."

Ares was caught off guard and started to stutter "What ..How do you..I mean what..What are you talking about?"

Xena started laughing when he said this, "Oh, just confess..Your turning into Joxer right now."

Ares had to laugh at this, he never acted this way so he just admitted it. "How did you find out?"

Xena let out a deep breath and faced Ares, "I always knew...from the moment I first kissed you I knew. When I first got my powers, and Zeus put me to sleep because of the pain, you held me in your arms and I could feel it, the love I thought we never had. It tore me apart inside Ares because I denied myself the only thing I ever wanted in life. You! I couldn't go back to war so I automatically assumed I couldn't go back to you, and everytime I saw you hurt Gabrielle or me..I pulled further away." Xena paused for a moment feeling that her emotions were overwelming her.

Ares felt angry at himself now, he had done so much to hurt this women and through all of that she still loved him. It made him sick to find that the only women he ever loved deserved better."Xena, you can't be with me," Xena started to protest but he raised a finger to her lips,"All I ever wanted was you, because in my heart I loved you so much but I also caused you so much pain and I could never live with myself if I did that to you again. Thats why I can't have you because your meant to be with someone who is better than me Xena, someone who will never hurt you."

"Is that what you honestly believe Ares, that I'm supposed to be with somebody I don't love and forget about you. Listen to me Ares...No matter what you do or say, I will always love you and nothing will or has ever changed that. And, Yes you did hurt me sometimes, but I forgave you because I knew you were confused and angry. I was too, when my village was attacked I was filled with hate.....and that made me destroy many innocent lives that I probably wouldn't have done before....but I found peace and I found a friend. So if your telling me to go, I won't because I love you."

Ares smiled, "I not telling you to go" he whispered. He grabbed her waist and pulled her next to him kissing her tenderly. "I don't ever think I will ever love another as I love you Xena"

She pulled away from him and brushed a curl of hair from his face. "Ares I want you to remember one thing no matter what I said or did in the past, my heart has always belonged to you."


_______________________________________________________________________

Xena awoke in the morning to find herself in an empty bed. The windows were opened and the brightness of the sun fell upon her face waking her up. She turned once more still looking for the god but not a trace of him could be found. She sighed to herself recalling last night she regretted nothing about it except that it should have come sooner but shenever once thought how this might have been affected by Ares.

She picked up her clothes and tried to put them on but finding that she had grown a bit quickly gave up. I suppose its a god thing.

She paced around the room several times in her shift. She had no clothes, no Ares and not even the slightest clue about using her power. To make matters worse in 2 days she would be fighting in the most chaotic and significant fight in the world. She sat on a chair and began to talk silently to herself. To have finally found peace in my life I have to fight to keep it. Ares...........Ares if your there you bastard come here and help me.

"Xena is that anyway to talk to the person you love.."he grinned.

"Just because I love you doesn't mean I have to be nice to you. Now help me find some clothes." she hollered.

Ares by now worked his way to Xena and put his arm around her waist. "Why don't youjust wear the ones you have now."

Xena pulled away and stared at him angrily, "They don't fit"

Ares laughed out loud and only ended up with getting a kick in the gut. Even through his excruciating pain he seemed to still crack a smile and chuckle a little. Seeing that the raven haired goddess was looking at him he quickly put on a solemn face and began to speak.

"Aphrodite and Artemis can help you with your clothes and I'll show you how to use your powers afterwards."

"Fine"

"Still mad are we"

Xena looked at Ares and grinned a mischievous grin before finally leaving.

Ares had seen this look many times,when she knew something her enemy didn't, the day she fought the furies, when she threw the ball of light towards him and then now. He pouted a little bit finding that you could tame a Titan better than tame Xena.


____________________________________________________________________

When she walked out of her room she found herself lost in the hallway of the gods. Remembering the walk around Olympus that Ares and Athena took her on she was able to find the thrown room of Zeus. Having only a shift on she was a little uncertain whether this was the appropriate time to get aquatinted with the king of the Gods. She entered the enormous room slowly feeling the power and history of it filling the air. When she was about half way through Zeus appeared on his thrown seeing the new visitor.

A little startled by the sudden emergence of the god. Xena began to address Zeus "I was wondering where Aphrodite and Artemis's rooms were."

Zeus looked at the blue-eyed goddess in amazement. She had seemed to have all the abilities of a god when human and now that she has became one she looked to be more superior than Zeus himself. He smiled down at her "Why don't you just transport yourself there."

"I have not yet been able to aquire that ability yet."

"Well dear,"Zeus chuckled "how are you to help us defeat the horsemen without learning your powers. We must correct this at once." He walked over to Xena grabbing her hands. "The power of the gods is not through force but through the mind. Now close your eyes and picture Artemis and Aphrodite."

Xena took a deep breath and began to do as he asked. A wave of nausea fell over her as she appeared in front of Aphrodite and Artemis.

"Xena are you alright" spoke Aphrodite."why didn't you put your leathers on."

Xena stared up at the 2 women. She groaned a few seconds before saying "Long story".


_______________________________________________________________________

When Ares went on the search for Xena, the last place he would have expected to find her was in Hephaestus forge. She was discussing the type of weapons needed for the battle pointing out that each one needed to be perfected for the god/goddess fighting with it. What shocked Ares the most was her new look. Her leather skirt was gone and what was replaced was shiny black leather pants that showed every curve of her body.She wore brown boots that was covered with a silver bracelet around her ankles. Her breast plate was redone into a intricate design and was made from Hepheastus metal it would have covered her usual black leathers but instead covered a brown thin leather like cloth that did not put as much weight on her.

When she finally noticed Ares enter she beckoned him to come over and discuss the new weapons and armor.

"Are you going to help or not Ares"

"What" said Ares still gazing at Xena trying to come awake from his trance.

Xena told Hephaestus to tell her as soon as possible when the weapons would be ready .She began to walk over to Ares feeling like he was looking at her strangely. She paused a moment then vanished leaving a eerie feeling in the room. ___________________________________________________________________

It was dark in the town and the people all slept quietly in their houses. The entity moved slowly through the roads examining all the features of life that fell upon it. The grass swaying back and forth..the empty cart full of food standing alone..the stray moths floating around anything dead.He examined all this before finally stopping. His face grew grim and and all his appearances seemed to disappear in a shadow as the glimmer of light suddenly appeared.

Armed with her sword, she found nothing but the dreary town. She looked about once more as Ares appeared behind her ,startled a bit she grabbed his hand and led him to the spot where the creature had stood before..

"It was here."she started."It was right here, and I missed it. She kicked the ground with her foot creating a little puff of dust.

Ares still bewildered looked at her in puzzlement. His face portraying the boyish curiosity already in his eyes and at seeing this Xena had to suppress a smile. She took in a deep breath and said,"You didn't feel it did you."

"What"

"The darkness, the evil ...it was so cold and so....."She stopped a bit then backed away from the leathered god slowly .Her face was full of panic and distrust.

Getting worried Ares came and grabbed the shivering goddess trying to calm her.She accepted his compassionate arms and put her head on his shoulders almost crying. He brushed her hair and asked what happened but could only hear a whimper.

After many minutes had past she pulled away and started to walk around.The moonlight reflected off her face giving it a pale look.When she finally stopped she looked into Ares eyes who asked what was wrong.

"it felt so..so familar" . She looked over at Ares her eyes trying to adjust to her surroundings as a tear welled up inside. She glanced to all the houses the sleepy owners unaware of what was happening ,so unknowning of the danger that passed, so innocent to the corruption above.

A storm of overwhelming feelings seemed to go through Ares. For some reason or another she wasn't going to tell him what happened, his comforting arms wrapped around her assuring her of his presence for it was all he could do at the present. Silence seemed to be their friend at the moment .A steady wind blew giving the trees a gentle sway and the air a cold chill. And through all this only one thing could be heard.

"We already lost." she cried out ,"We already lost."She fell to the ground picking up the dirt and throwing it in the air."We already lost." The goddess disappeared in despair and so followed her companion.

Deep in the forest he came the shadow once gone now alive....Evil once forgotten now to be remembered and yet his face had no sadness ,no fear, no happiness ,no joy towards his destiny .It did not hold solemn cruelty nor did it hold any condolence. Yet he who was no one and seemed to be altogether the triumph of one man and the dreary, sadness of another. ________________________________________________________________________

The hot air swelled up inside their veins.The pounding of the hooves as it raced among the burning sand gave a tremendous roar against the desert plains . The sun burned with a fire that refused to go out .And there they were, three of them, each one as powerful as the other. The muscular form and rugged armor giving them a legacy that was never known a story that was never told, and that was the fear of all people ,the unknown. The keys to their destruction can never be found if they do not exist. As the 3 horsemen rode over the hill A abrupt stop was made and their presence gone.

As they reappeared in the desolate forest they were greeted with a familiar sound.

"Brothers, we meet again."

"And brother why have we been called here. Have you not figured out that nothing can stop us."

"Your faith in your powers is your downfall. For we can be stopped from releasing her and if you doubt that anyone is to strong then you are a fool."

"Who, can destroy us."

"Nobody but ourselves"

"What" The brothers stared at each other in anger for what they did not hear. There faces transformed so easily to their previous manner that it was hard to tell they were angry at all. The taller of the four waved his hand to the stars above and there appeared a portal depicting a picture of a woman.

"She must not know. Understand brothers." All nodded their heads as they disappeared to begin their task." _________________________________________________________________

"The fall of Olympus is upon us. The entity that was once once housed can now escape. Her children are the key to this, they have the key to are lives and are destiny but unless we choose to change that we are already dead. We have lived for centuries, and for moments felt like we never lived at all. I know how you felt as a god, the immotal gift a curse, the life of a god ,pure unhappiness. For some this battle will be a savior for to die is but a sweet melody to thier ears but for some of us it is to fight for something we took for granted everyday , every moment , every year. ...LIFE." Zeus shouted, "LIFE , the one thing we laugh and mock at, the one thing we had for eternity, the one thing that can be taken away at this very moment. We gods must fight ,not for glory ,not for hatred....We must fight for our lives, we the ones who never earned them in the first place must now show that we are the ones that deserve them."

The cheers and roars began as all the gods felt a sense of pride. "The one thing they needed was the will and for many centuries they had none Xena." The old god sat down, his face torn between remorse and happiness. Never before had been see all the gods together in such a united gathering. His lips releasing a small smile before returning to their somber state. He turned to Xena seeing her eyes red and her face pale , wondering what the cause of her state was."

"Xena ,is everything alright."

She looked at him her eyes no longer empty but enraged ."I need to have a talk with you Zeus , IN PRIVATE. "

She went into the hallway and disappeared into the corner having a reluctant Zeus follow her. When he entered he began to grab a glass of wine as he knew that Xena's interrogation was about to begin.

"It was a lie wasn't it "

"What "

"The we can win speech. You knew they were to powerful and you were going to get us slaughtered.You were going to let us die out there."

"XENA" Zeus roared "I will not stand for this ."

"No , I will not stand for you. You knew they were to powerful .You knew that they couldn't be defeated by war. Or should I say pestilence, famine, or DEATH. Or better yet should I just call them the four horsemen."

Zeus took in a deep breath and searched for his chair as if he was about to have his collapse."

"How do you know."

"Titans were good for something after all."

"What does that mean",growled the old god.

"That means "she spat, "that you just didn't give me their powers you gave me their lives. All the images, the terror, the horrors that they went through, you gave them to me. They could not even defeat their mother and their powers were three times as strong as the gods. Yet you knew that didn't you Zeus. So tell me why you sit so quietly." "So then we have no chance all hope is lost ."

"Yes and.........No"

"What does that mean."

"The four horsemen cannot be defeated but their mother can."

"Then we will kill her."

"She cannot die."

"Then what"

"She is pure evil. Her children are war,famine,plague and DEATH as you know. It is told in legends, true or not, that a cure for all, is all in one, and one in the same, to be the destiny never changed.

"A riddle?"

"No Xena , a Chance. One that I cannot even figure out the outcome to." ____________________________________________________________________

He strolled around the room before finally asking her what happened. He was left in the dark for some time now and she acted in a whole new sense . She was no longer his warrior princess, no longer his goddess, she was a shell of a person not responding to anything. Just sitting there minute after minute ,hour after hour not moving and it frustrated him to no end.

"Will you talk to me already."Ares shouted.

"Do not threaten me."

"Xena, just talk to me."he pleaded,"You had not said one word to me since we came back from the small town. Just tell me what is wrong damn it."

She looked at him silently."Do you Love me".

"What kind of question is that !"

"Answer me."

"YES. YES I LOVE YOU. I thought you believed in me, but I guess I was wrong."

"I do believe in you."she replied softly ,coming closer gently kissing him. He pulled away and grabbed her hands.

"Then why did you ask me."

"What if we can't win Ares.What if they win and we lose. What then?" He smiled his handsome smile and said, "then I 'll see you in Tarterus." He grabbed her waist spinning her around as she cracked a smile.

"What makes you think Im going."

"Well your the Bitch of Tarterus. So its only natural that you should go there."

She laughed out loud, a laugh not heard for quite some time that made all the gods smile in spite of themselves .Xena grabbed Ares by the shoulders and threw him on the bed. Her new powers proved it to be a reasonably eay task. Now taking advantage of the situation with a simple thought the bed under him disappeared leaving a much blushing Ares on the floor.

"Hahaha.....Need some help Ares. Wait Im sorry Im the Bitch of Tarterus and I don't do anything good."She roared with laughter and for some time forgot about every problem she ever had.Ares glanced at her grinning. It was so refreshing to him to see her happy and not in depression or rage. Her question still plagued his mind,though, what if they didn't win. What then? <"For a person who just fell on the floor, you look sadder than I was." "Huh."

"You were thinking about my question weren't you Ares."

"No"

"Liar"

"I suppose the thought of losing you is a frightening .I just found you to only have to lose you again."

"Ares I feel the same way but in my heart I would always be with you."

"I wish I was so confident." he added saddly. Xena grinned and whispered in his ear.

"One time you told me that you wondered how I felt about you when you were mortal and the truth is. I loved you then and I love you now so what in your godly mind makes you think I will stop in the future." She kissed him on the lips softly as it rose to more passionate one.

"Ares Aphrodite told me one time that True Love comes once every blue moon. Do you believe her."

"Well I suppose she is right since she knew about us."

"Hmmm."

"What was that about."

"You don't see one all the time and you may never see it but its always there isn't it."

"What"

"A Blue Moon." _________________________________________________________________

The town was crowded with busy people. Filled with the usual market place goers and in its depth lay the serpent for its next victim. On the hill he stood with his venomous poison . His eyes anticipating the terror and fear as he chanted his incantation, but to his realization it was a small victory as he saw the villagers so easily starved . All their insides seeming to vanish leaving their bony remains.

"Turn to thy raging souls peasants and let your anger be your undoing."The sinister faced man disappeared as did so many of the lives of the villagers and the whole country. ___________________________________________________________________

On the cotton fields of the south of Greece their lied the second of the demon children but no villagers were present this time and the look of the devil laid in his eyes. He reached out his arm and began his incantation. The field suddenly swarmed with rats and flies swarming around the field as the stranger pointed away the animals suddenly obeyed releasing their terror upon the people. The man then disappeared only leaving a few words.

"Flesh and carnage they will feast upon and death be your fate for so ever long." ________________________________________________________________

Beneath the water he came caring his sword and the reigns. His horsed galloped with triumph over the open field and stopped at the swarm of coming people. Not a grin was shown but a fire in his eyes appeared as a magnificent axe came from his hand towards the center of the field .As it hit the ground a spawn of light rushed across leaving two sides of soldier lined up for battle. At the sound of his hand clapped the destruction began .

"All shall fight forever, their soul is gone." His horse plunged back into the raging waters of the sea and he was dissipated. _________________________________________________________________

The cries of the people had awaken her and her eyes had become sore from all the ghastly images. Everywhere there came plague ,famine and War. The oppressive scenes making her heart ache with pain as she knew she would be in the same situation had it not been for Ares. Her powers were useless in helping the people and the cries and shrill screams made the truth even harder. She had known it was coming from the moment she sensed them but now something else was altered . The atmosphere had changed, the whole situation was different, and there was a deep nagging feeling of inpending danger in her heart. She was abruptly shaken from her train of thought when she felt Ares presence behind her.

"Xena, Somethings happened."he spoke saddly."You need to go and see Gabrielle." Xena breathed in deep as Ares took her arm transporting her to a small hut in the amazon village. Nobody was seen and the whispers and cries were the only things that told that the place was not abandoned. As she entered the hut she saw her friend lying on the hay bed. She sighed as a tear rolled down her eyes. Hugging her friend ever so tightly she began to weep.

"No Gabrielle. Not you .Your not supposed to die." Gabrielle pulled herself away from her friends grip and took hold of her hand.

"Im fine Xena, just caught a little fever, that’s all.Don't worry I'll be okay."

"Ares can we be left alone for a moment. "Xena said as Gabrielle turned her eyes to see the god beside Xena leave.

"A lot has changed hasn't it."

"Yeah, Gabrielle it has."

"You and Ares"

"Yes"

"Figures, I'm glad your happy. I know what happened after you left Ares told me everything."

"Everything"

"Yes, can't say I'm not scared but with you on our side .Who can beat us.huh"she smiled. Coughing once in awhile as the fever started to take its toll. "Tell me the truth though Xena do we have a chance."

"I don't know"

"Xena"

"Yes Gabrielle"

"Don't give up ,don't ever give up. I love you and this world to much to see you gone."

"Don't worry Gabrielle. I promise I won't give up.You need your rest so I better leave."

"Xena, I'm sad I missed you finally find peace in your heart."Xena looked at Gabrielle for awhile as she drifted off to sleep. When Xena was about to leave she felt a fearful presence upon her. She grabbed Gabrielle's arm and tried to awake her but it was to late he already claimed her life.

"Come out , you bastard" screeched Xena."Come and fight or give her back." He appeared not like other gods but much in the same manner. There was a shadow in the room by the corner that Xena hadn't cared to notice till now.His demeanor shocked her for she had never expected to see such angelic looking figure but a demon spawn .He looked at her mildely his blue eyes turning into a brilliant green."You called" he said deeply, his tone not aggresive but gentle.

"Bring her back."

"I can't"

"Why not" cried Xena

"She is dead"

"You took her away you monster .Now bring her back."

"Power is no stronger than thy death for once ye shall conquer all the immortal souls ,shall you live among the roaming dead." He disappeared leaving the angered goddess behind.His face no longer angelic but deep with remorse. As she walked outside the tent still stunned from what she had seen and the loss of Gabrielle she heard some all to familiar words.

"I'm sad I missed you finally find peace in your heart" Xena could not get the words out of her mind and then she remembered other memories as well "Xena,you could have been all goody, peace girl."Then she finally recollected what Zeus had told her" that a cure for all, is all in one, and one in the same, to be the destiny never changed. "Some how all of this matched up but she couldn't figure it out. And it seemed to be right in front of her but time was running out and the horsemen would now try to release their mother since they ridded all healthy life into a bitter, desolate old man. ____________________________________________________________________

"The time is coming closer brothers. The Devil Jade shall be released again and not even she can stop us now. The mortals are dead and crippled, the armageddon has already begun and the time for life is over and the day of death begins."the powerful entity stopped for a moment before he addressed his brothers again.

"Their coming,...... Deimos ,Phobos ,Telesto......take care of the visitors. Nodding their heads the demons jumped on their horses and diminished into the shadow.

"She must never know." Dante said,"She must never know. Tonight the Devil shall be released and a whole new world begun." ____________________________________________

The thundering of their hooves could be heard from miles around. It sounded so inhuman that the shear terror of the noise could strike a man dead in his tracks. There were three of them only, quite the image thought of when you think of a devil. They approached the desolate hill and examined the surroundings before backing away.

“I know you are here Zeus …come out .” one of them said in a rough voice. He picked up a pile of sand and threw against as it revealed the invisible wall standing before them.

“Smart Zeus….some would just give up.” He raised his hand to the sky and produce a liquid substance in his palm as he threw it toward the same spots he did the sand. It splashed against the barrier again but this time it disappeared, as the gods appeared much shocked in front of the horsemen. They smiled momentarily before they dismounted. As they approached the gods they unsheathed their swords to reveal the mastery of their kind.

Xena saw all this ,as she was in front of Zeus. She quieted for a second before giving her war cry and launching all the Gods in to a battle. The gods seemed so immense in size against three devil children it did not take a genius to realize the outcome but looks no matter how apparent can always deceive. Armed in Hephaestus’s best the gods did not cry, they did not give –up and for once in their life they actually lived. They just stood there ,though, unmoving as the gods came running forward. Clashing their swords against the ground they already had disarmed and knocked down all the gods except one. Xena still attacked as the puzzling men performed the same procedure they did before. They stared at each other in bewilderment as she had kicked one of the brothers down. Towering over her, they came to their senses and repeatedly started to attack her. Xena, however, mighty she was could only take so much .She got knocked down with the end of the sword as she defended herself. The three brothers stood about as they looked at the unconscious woman, for none of them had even touched her. As they looked around they saw all the gods angrily getting up. One in particular seemed most interested in the destruction of the horsemen as he came barreling towards the men. He saw Xena lying on the dirt and his emotions got the best of him, as he knew his fate was now sealed to come and attack them. The devils looked directly at him their swords up and their eyes shooting with fury but then it all stopped with a single cry.

“Noooo…..”Xena screamed as she released a huge ball of light towards Ares knocking him back into the sand. “You..”She smiled as she pointed at the horsemen. “I know your secret.”She laughed wickedly before disappearing into the mist.

Zeus smiled a minute before him and the other gods disappeared from the extreme heat of the desert sand. The three men looked at each other in confusion as their brother appeared before them..

“You feeble minded brothers. She knows and you did not even kill them. If she succeeds …” he stepped back a moment. “She won’t succeed, not this time. Kill them….

With a nod of their heads, they left. “Im sorry you know Xena. Too bad you won’t remember for long.”

When they arrived back at Olympus, the gods left to heal themselves of any wounds. Xena walked across the hall seeing all the gods in a humanly form rather than a perfect entity.

“Its just like war.” She said to herself ,as she healed Apollo of his cut leg.

“We cannot defeat them can we Xena. They are too powerful.”

“Don’t say that Apollo…nothing is to powerful and even evil has a weak side.”

“You sound so confident. Something you’re not telling us.” Xena smiled briefly before going to find Ares.

He had vanished after Xena had pushed him away and nobody on Olympus seemed to know where he was. Xena pulled the door open as she rested her head on the rail of the balcony. It had been only a couple of days ago that she admitted her love for Ares. As she sighed, she felt that familiar sense she always did but cared not to notice it.

“Are you mad.”

“For what” Xena said

“I thought you were hurt.”

“I know, and I don’t blame you for doing what you did.”

“Then why the silence.”

“What if I couldn’t save you.” She hesitated a bit as she looked at him. “And what if it’s me next time.”

“You were willing to give up your life to save mine but would you let me give up my life to save yours.”

“No…Never.”.Ares stated angrily.

Xena grew furious at this…”You wouldn’t let me save your life…even though I love you. Wouldn’t let me sacrifice my life for the one thing that is it. Ares you bastard! You stole my heart yet your willing to let me live without it.”. Xena shook her head back and forth and disappeared.

Ares went back to the balcony and looked upon the view.

“Splendid view isn’t son.”

“Hi Zeus.” Ares said coldly.

“You know…….that Hera was like that too.”

“Hera is nothing like Xena.”Ares replied sharply.

“You really care about her don’t you.”

“Of course……She is everything to me. I love her Zeus. All my years of existence didn’t even begin till I saw her and to lose her would be to have never live, never see the sun, to see the stars, to see the world…..” Ares sighed and began to walk .

Zeus seeing the pain in Ares eyes turned his back and said something he never thought he would..

“I always loved son and if I had to sacrifice my blood to save yours I would.”

Ares stopped suddenly and walked up to his father. “After all these years you have the nerve to tell me that. After all the things you did to me. I will never love you. You are just the king of the gods to me. So don’t expect me to be sympathetic to you before we die when you never were when we were alive.” Zeus started to walk away when he was told this and suppressed a tear before he turned back.

“I know I did wrong but Xena loves you as much as you love her……”Zeus sighed…”but maybe it wasn’t meant to be.”

“Back off old man or you will die before you even get on the battleground.” Ares roared as he pounded his hand against the gravel balcony.

“Ashes to Ashes ….Dusk to Dusk …today the world that thou has created becomes the thing of fear.” He poured a silver sand substance in his hand as he drew a star symbol on the ground.. “The heart is a very powerful necessity brothers. To have it is to conquer the world to lose is to die. Love and war ..Faith and destruction…today” he clapped his hand. “Evil shall win.” A huge burst of light surged through the mountain air as only one brother was left standing. He turned his head slowly toward the side of him as a minute later came a blinding flash and the appearance of the warrior.

“Well welcome warrior princess you know why you’re here so why don’t you enlighten me.”

“Death……or should I say Dante-.”

“Oh you know are names to bad it s the only thing you know.”

“Well, how smart you think you are. If I didn’t know better I wouldn’t think you weren’t afraid of me at all. Now I wonder why you are though.” .

Dante lips quivered but from his shock soon came a smile. “You love your family do you not Xena, well I love mine. Deimos, Phobos, Telesto, come here .” From a shadow that suddenly appeared behind Dante, out stepped the three brothers. “Did you do your job.”.The three nodded their heads. Dante turned and looked back at Xena.” Such a shame you couldn’t say good-bye to them.

Xena shuddered and looked at the four .Nothing was there. Pure darkness laid in their eyes and behind that lied the truth that was even more frightening.

“Remember Xena, a chance.”Deimos said.

Xena looked up after hearing that just in time to see them disappear. “Mom” she cried out loud as she left. ________________________________________________________

Horrific and devastating were the only words to describe it. Nothing was left undamaged, nothing was left at all. The village had only lied a couple of miles from the forest and the people there were as friendly as everywhere else. Once torn in warfare the village seemed to come back through the hardships and rebuild but not this time. You cannot rebuild what is it not there.

The last time that Xena had been to Aphimpolis was when her and Gabrielle made a stop there to get supplies. It was spring and the markets were filled with people but now it was gone, everything was destroyed. Xena picked up a pile of rubble and threw against the ground as she started to run toward the tavern.

“Cyrene….Mom…”Xena shouted .She suddenly came to a halt. The tavern was but a pile of ashes. There was nothing left but a couple of broken glasses with soot on them that covered the ground. Xena broke down right there and fell on her knees,”mom, it all my fault….I should have never came to them…oh mom!”Xena went on stumbling over her words as she choked on her tears. She felt a cold breeze come over her as there appeared Dante standing before her.

“Such a sad scene is it not Xena. You know I believe your brother comes once in awhile to visit, so sad that he had to be here don’t you think.”

“You monster, they did nothing to you . They don’t even know you exist so why. WHY?” Xena screamed.

“Why do people die, why do flowers wilt, why do the stars shine….”he stated coldly, “because I want them to. Evil is everywhere Xena, whether you wish to see it or not.”

“Evil! That is your answer. Did you ever feel love, happiness, joy. No you haven’t so don’t tell me evil is everywhere because it only lies in you. You bastard. These people had lives, they feel, they are HUMAN…”Xena was interrupted by the dark looking man.

“How much are their lives worth to you. Would you sacrifice your love for them. Your soul mate to save the world.”

A chill went through Xena as she saw her nightmare come true.

Dante laughed, “You cannot choose. Strange one man over hundreds of people. I would think it would be easier to decide but I guess evil can creep into the smallest of crevices.” He waved his hand as he snuck back into the dark corner.

“Ahhhhh,”Xena yelled as she threw a piece of wood at the shadow that was no longer there.”What am I supposed to do”she shouted towards the sky. “What am I supposed to find? Am I supposed to kill them, supposed to let them kill me.What?” She threw a ball of fire towards the ground and watched it form a puff of smoke as it dissolved in the air.

Xena walked around some more to see that one of the temples was left untouched. “That’s strange.” She said to herself as she walked up to the steps. The temple was one of Aphrodites and was scorched a little but was left intact. As Xena went inside she found it empty. She ventured over to some of the rooms within but didn’t find one single living or for that matter dead thing. She sighed and took to the door before seeing a gleam coming off one of the mirrors. As she looked closer she could see in the main hall that there was a door hidden from view. She approached slowly and gently pushed it as it opened a big enough crack for Xena to get in. She took one of the torches and began her descent into the stairway. It spiraled for a couple of yards before leading into an altar. The stench of it making Xena nauseated, the seen so fowl that Xena had to turn away. There, lied on the floor thirty or so priest dead. The stench signaling that they had been that way for quite some time. Xena composed herself in order to get a sense of what happened. She kneeled down to the nearest man and examined him for any injuries. What she found was something she never expected. In the man’s chest was an arrow made from a metal that had never before been seen. It came directly into his heart and killed him instantly but what startled Xena the most was the design that was carved into it. It depicted a star and four moons circling around it and on the bottom there was writing in another language. When she went to all the other priest she found that they had the same thing and that they were from different temples. Aphrodite, Apollo, Artemis, Athena, Hera, Zeus, and even Ares’s head priest were there. Looking to the side of her she saw something in the near corner where the priest were scattered. It was a small paper scroll, no bigger than her hand. On it were two pictures, one with a dark haired woman holding a sword covered with blood and a small light looming in the corner. The other was the same woman holding a small child with a shadow in the corner. Xena’s eyes examined the two pictures intently then put them next to her as she closed her eyes and gasped for air realizing her fate. Her lips trembled as she grabbed her sword and threw it at one of the walls nearby to have it caught in thin air, and suddenly held by the dark figure. His eyes looked at Xena with a boyish manner. “What is wrong Xena, I thought you said you make your own fate.” He teased.

“You Bastard.” She screamed. “You didn’t want me to know. You knew I could kill but you never wanted me to know …”Xena was interrupted by Dante’s sword coming down on her, she rolled away and regained her balance to get her chakram and throw it at him. It missed him and came back to her while she climbed up the stairway. She knew if she stayed she wouldn’t win. Dante looked at her and raised his hand making her tumble down and fall onto her back. She got up slowly and picked up her chakram once again. Aiming it towards Dante, she let out her warrior cry and flipped into the air. She came down on the other side and released her chakram that slightly grazed Dante across the face. He snickered and walked towards her but suddenly stopped in his movements. Seeing a small drop of crimson, red, blood on his face. He let out a roar as Xena began to go towards the stairs, she got up half way before suddenly falling back and landing hard on the ground. She opened her eyes just in time to see a burst of light come towards her, and do a roll to avoid it. She began to close her eyes slightly, after the pain became to be too much for her. Dragging herself to a corner, she passed out, still holding the chakram in her hands. Dante came forward and wiped off the blood with his hand. He kneeled down towards her and examined the figure. Taking her hand he looked at it strangely as if he never seen one before. Turning it over he stared at her palm and looked at his that held a star on it. Pulling out a small, blue, liquid, he began to pour it into Xena’s hand that disappeared as soon as it touched it.

“A choice Xena. One that determines whether you live or die.” Dante kissed her softly on the cheek and backed away. He raised his sword and brought it down making it point directly at her. “Today Xena, you die.”

The sword gave a surge of energy and headed towards Xena. A flash of light surrounded her as a dark figure picked her up and looked coldly at Dante who nodded and disappeared. Xena groaned as the figure held her and with a single thought they both disappeared. ___________________________________________________________

Xena awoke on top of a hill with a small blanket on top of her. She jerked her head realizing what had happened and turned around, noticing her surroundings. She groaned a little and slowly tried to stand up. She stood there for a couple of seconds before losing her balance and falling back onto the floor. Her eyes opened widely with pain. She looked around her once more for help and spotted Ares standing next to her. She looked into his eyes and noticed the anger and fear in his glare.

“What if I wasn’t there.” Ares coldly stated. He walked over to her and helped her up off the ground.

Holding on to him for support, Xena eyes turned to ice. “He killed them all. He killed my family Ares.”

“I know Xena. I was there when they attacked. I tried to save them but it was too late. They were already dead.” Ares sympathetically said. He grabbed onto her arms, as Xena was about to fall again. She looked into his eyes and smiled despite everything that happened. She let go of his hands and began top stand up by herself.

“After everything that happened Ares, if you weren’t there I would be happier to not have put you in any danger. I know you would think the same. No matter what happens Ares, I know it will be okay because through this all, you never gave up hope. You never let me die and I think I never will in your eyes.” Xena rubbed away the tears coming from the corners of her eyes and grinned at Ares who looked at her sadly.

“It ends tonight, huh.” Ares said.

Xena frowned and nodded her head. Ares grabbed her chin and kissed her passionately, “We fight to the end then.” Ares smiled as Xena laid her head on his shoulders knowing that it would never be the same. Everything was about to change and nothing could ever repair the damage that was about to be done that day. Nothing would ever be the same.

Zeus sat in his thrown, smiling to himself. He had never knew what emotions were, what fear was. And. now he was going through what mortals went through everyday. Realization that death was upon him. He smiled though, his god hood was reduced to a single piece of dirt and Olympus might cease to exist, but he realized one thing that most gods could not. The value of life! He lived his existence in the thought that life could hold no meaning for him. But now it did. Zeus turned his head to see Ares appear in the room. Zeus looked down while Ares stared at him questionably.

“You said you always loved me.” Ares stuttered not taking his eyes off of Zeus.

Zeus lifted his head and looked at his son. “I always did Ares. I never showed it because I thought it would make me weak.”

“I never thought you were weak Zeus. You were my father and it felt like you stabbed a hind’s blood dagger in my back when you were so cold to me. I felt like I could never prove myself to you. That you despised me.”

“I feared you.” Zeus cried, shaking his head. “You were a mirror image of me and that scared me. I feared that you would take over Olympus like I did my father. So I did what I thought I had to do, show no weakness and try to control you.” Zeus stood up and put his hand on Ares shoulder.

“The truth is that I was proud of you. I watched how you were with Xena, how she undid the damage I caused you. “ Zeus sighed and said slowly. ”Son could you ever forgive me.”

Ares looked at Zeus and saw all the emotions go through him. It was the first time Ares had ever looked his father in the eye. His whole life, he felt that he could never make Zeus happy. It came to sudden shock to him that he always did. Ares smiled at Zeus. “I guess anything can happen….Father.”

Zeus smiled and grabbed Ares into a hug when Xena appeared beside them and grinned from ear to ear.