Warning: This story is still in progress!

Title: Thief Of Hearts
Author: Sweeneybird
Rating: PG
Feedback: Yes, please! sweeneybird@yahoo.com


Chapter 1

After a hasty departure from Athens, Autolycus couldn't resist wandering through the Thebean spring festival. Although it had been years since he had stooped to pick pockets, it never hurt to keep one's skills sharp. And what better target than a bunch of yokels wandering around with mouths open and guards down? The King of Thieves moved aimlessly through the crowd, identifying potential marks and then discarding them as unworthy of his efforts. Here and there his dark good looks, broad shoulders and flashing brown eyes inspired appreciative murmurs from the ladies, but he schooled himself to simply grin in response and not pursue the unspoken offers. He really needed to lay low after Athens - adultery and grand larceny didn't exactly sit well with the local magistrates.

Glancing over to the gaily decorated stalls on the left side of the square, Autolycus spotted a grubby little boy surreptitiously lifting the purse of an auburn-haired woman while she examined the wares of the vendor. The child could not have been more than five or six - about the same age that Autolycus was when... Disgusted with himself for useless sentimentality, Autolycus shook his head, walked over and caught the boy by the collar.

"What do you think you're doing?" he asked with a mock stern expression on his face. Terrified, the boy dropped the purse, wriggled free and disappeared into the crowd.

"Let that be a lesson to you!" Autolycus shouted after him, smothering a grin. He bent to pick up the red leather bag and presented it with a flourish to its owner. She dropped a half-curtsy and flashed her dimples at him, blinding him with an enormous smile.

"Thanks," she said. "Both for your kindness to me and to the boy."

Autolycus stammered, struck by her brilliant smile and the fiery cap of hair that framed her fair face. "He's not a bad kid - reminds me a little of myself...my nephew at that age." The sun caught the golden highlights in her flaming hair, and Autolycus was lost. "I'm Autolycus - might I know the name of the lovely lady whose property I've returned?" he asked, forgetting in his bemusement to add his usual "Perhaps you've heard of me?"

More dimples. "My name is Katerini. I'm afraid I can't offer much in the way of a reward. How about some ale to show my gratitude?"

They made their way to the inn where Autolycus ordered himself ale and wine for Katerini. After they deposited themselves at an unoccupied table in the only sunny corner, Katerini silently sipped her wine while Autolycus turned his mug absently between his fingers. For a moment they avoided each other's gaze, feeling slightly uncomfortable. Then the tall thief deliberately sipped his ale. Looking straight ahead, he asked seriously, "So, how much did you bribe that kid to set me up?"

Katerini spun to stare at him, a protest rising quickly to her lips. Then she noticed the crinkles around his warm brown eyes and the slight twitch of his black mustache. "You're on to me," she mourned, peeking up at him sideways to gauge his reaction. "It was all an elaborate ruse to meet you." The redhead hung her head to hide her smile. "I'm so embarrassed - but can you blame me?"

Stifling his own grin, Autolycus shook his head understandingly. "Don't worry my dear, it happens all the time." At this, Katerini snorted with laughter. They both started laughing, softly at first and then uncontrollably, leaning on each other for support. A single drink became two, then lunch, and the next thing he knew the sun had slipped down to the horizon.

Katerini giggled and looked around the dining room as the bartender began lighting the oil lamps. "I'm afraid that I've kept you from the festival for far too long, Autolycus," she apologized. "I don't often get to hear new stories, especially from someone who knows how to tell a tale. You're really funny, and you certainly do get around!"

Much to his surprise, Autolycus felt himself blush. "Thanks!" he mumbled. "Coming from you, that's a real compliment. I thought that I'd heard all of the stories of Hercules' feats, but they seemed funnier when you told them. You've a talent for storytelling yourself, you know."

Now she blushed, and Autolycus found himself enjoying the slow rise of color from her modest neckline to the roots of her hair. Although the soft blue dress revealed little compared to some of the outfits he had seen that day, Autolycus noted appreciatively the way the fabric clung to Katerini's generous curves. The color turned her eyes dark blue - or was that just his imagination? Silent for a moment, they grinned foolishly at each other.

"Shall we go out and watch the dancing?" Katerini shyly changed the subject.

"Only if you'll promise to dance with me, pretty lady," Autolycus smiled.

"I think I can manage that," Katerini said, linking her arm with his as they left the inn.

Chapter 2

Iolaus dragged a protesting Hercules to enter every competition at the festival. They chased chickens, ate pies, shot arrows, threw knives and skinned deer until the demi-god insisted that they take a break. Looking longingly back at the admiring girls by the log-splitting competition, the blond hunter grumbled as they walked toward the inn.

"Are you sure you're okay, Herc?" he asked. "I mean, all of those pretty ladies and you want to go get something to eat and drink? You can do that anytime, but when do you get a chance to see so much beauty in one place? And such, um, FRIENDLY beauties? One more first prize and we could have had our pick!"

Hercules looked down at him in mock surprise. "Wait, you're telling me that after 6 hours of running around in the hot sun you're not hungry or thirsty? OK, who are you and what have you done with Iolaus?"

Iolaus grinned, his warm eyes dancing. "I'm a man of many appetites, Herc!" The taller man groaned and rolled his eyes as the blond hunter giggled at his own wit. "OK, maybe it is a good idea to take a break - the dancing will start soon, and I promised Kat I'd find her for the first song."

Hercules laughed. "Have you two EVER missed the first song of the spring festival?" he asked.

"We've been doing it since... well, at least... you know, I don't think we ever have!" Iolaus smiled and looked around for Katerini. As he did, he walked straight into a couple exiting the inn.

"Sorry, my fault," he apologized cheerfully. Then he did a double take and his smile widened. "Hey! Kat! I was looking for you!" Iolaus slipped his arm around his friend's waist and leaned in to kiss her cheek, but his hand encountered the unexpected presence of someone else's arm linked with hers. A decidedly male someone.

"Kat? Who's...Autolycus?" He looked over at Hercules, who suddenly seemed to find something extremely interesting on the scuffed toe of his boot. "Kat, what are you doing with this no-good..." Suddenly Hercules' elbow was in his ribs. "Ouch!" he yelped.

"Sorry about that, buddy - I slipped," said the demi-god, looking more amused than sorry.

"You know each other?" Katerini looked at Iolaus, who scowled at his partner and rubbed his side. Her clear gaze fell next on Hercules, who unconsciously wrinkled his forehead and looked away. Finally her eyes, gray now in the evening light, fell on Autolycus, who squirmed and looked helplessly at the other two men. "Autolycus?"

"We've, um, met," evaded Autolycus, looking warily at Hercules.

"You mean we bailed your sorry as-" began Iolaus, only to feel a large brown boot land on his foot. "Hey, you're killing me here, big guy!" Iolaus glared at Hercules, who looked unrepentant even as he apologized for crushing Iolaus' foot.

Iolaus hopped up and down melodramatically clutching his boot while Hercules hedged, "We've...um...worked with Autolycus on a few of our more...COMPLEX...adventures. He has many skills." At that the three men started laughing despite themselves while Katerini looked quizzically from one to the other.

The dark thief started moving toward the center of the village. "Come on, Katy, you promised me a dance!" he leered theatrically, wiggling his eyebrows and twirling his mustache as he gently pulled her toward the music. "Let's go!"

Laughing, Katerini gave up her questions for the moment, waved to her two old friends and said "See you later?" as she eagerly caught up to Autolycus.

Iolaus stopped rubbing his sore foot and stared in disbelief at the couple walking away arm in arm. "What just happened here?" he turned to Hercules, bewildered. "Kat and I have danced the first dance of the spring festival together since we were big enough to walk! We even did it while Anya and I...and after Niobe! And Leah! And Nebula! And that girl with the pierced...and the twins, and when I came back from the dead the second time...! And now she's breaking a lifetime of tradition to dance with the King of Dweebs? What is she, nuts?" The compact warrior rubbed the back of his tanned neck and shook his head. "That guy is an arrogant, conceited, dishonest, untrustworthy pain-in-the-ass! And what did he call her? 'Katy?' What kind of idiotic nickname is 'Katy'?"

Iolaus looked up at Hercules with a combination of exasperation and worry in his eyes. "You don't think he put some kind of spell on her, do you Herc? Kat's usually pretty level-headed, but she's acting all weird and girly." His expression brightened hopefully. "Or maybe one of your relatives is having a little fun with her? I bet that's it - she pissed off Aphrodite or Cupid or something. Herc, we've got to help her!" He turned and looked over to where Katerini gazed into Autolycus' face, dimpling and blushing at his animated conversation. "Oh, yeah, this has spell written all over it. Poor kid - Autolycus, for the love of Hades! Wait, 'Dite likes me, maybe she'll listen to me..."

Hercules started laughing. "Iolaus, you're babbling. There's no spell! Katerini has an admirer, and you're JEALOUS! She likes Autolycus, and it's making you nuts!" He leaned against the doorframe of the inn, shaking with laughter. "Man, I wish Jason were here! 'My relationship with Kat is more like sister and brother. We're just very close friends,'" Hercules recited in a singsong voice. He doubled over. "Jason will have a field day!"

Iolaus drew himself up and with a wounded expression announced, "We ARE very close friends! Can't close friends worry when one of them is making a horrible mistake that could ruin the rest of her life?" He began to stomp over to where Autolycus and Katerini stood lost in conversation, waiting for the music to start. Hercules reached out and grabbed his gauntlet-clad wrist, stopping the impulsive hunter in his tracks.

Standing up and wiping his eyes, Hercules looked kindly down at his agitated friend and said, "Look, I understand, honestly I do, but you have to let Katerini make her own decisions. We get so caught up in our stuff that we forget that she has a life of her own. Sometimes I think that life that can be a bit...lonely. Maybe she's just flattered by the attention. Or maybe she really likes him and he really likes her. Whatever it is, YOU have to leave them alone to figure it out."

"But Autolycus! Tartarus, why didn't she just pick Ares and be done with it?" Iolaus glanced back toward the square in disgust. His face darkened as he noticed the King of Thieves dark head close to hers, whispering to Katerini as she giggled. Looking back at Herc with determination, Iolaus swore. "If he hurts her, I'll shove his grappling hooks down his throat and pull them out of his..."

"Don't worry, buddy," Hercules replied, "I'm with you." A grin lit up Hercules face as he looked over at the scowling Iolaus. "Hey, remember that day you spent chained to Autolycus, um, well, naked?"

"Hey, that wasn't my idea! It was a spell - wait, I never told you we were naked! Did that rat tell you?" Blue eyes burning with fury, Iolaus sputtered, "That's it - I'm killing him right now."

"Yeah, whatever, anyway, I wonder, are you jealous of him or of Katerini?" Hercules started laughing again. "Where IS Jason when I need him?"

Iolaus started to reply but couldn't think of anything bad enough to say. The hunter closed his mouth, glared at Hercules and stomped off toward the square. Hercules stumbled after him, still helplessly shaking with mirth

Chapter 3

"How do well do you know those two?" Autolycus asked in a tone he hoped passed for nonchalant. "Did you grow up around here?" He rocked forward on his toes, hands clasped behind his back as he nervously awaited her answer. After Athens, he did NOT need two heroes on his back. 'Just once, I'd like to meet a pretty orphan girl who's new in town,' he thought, irritated that his weakness for redheads had gotten him into what could be a messy situation.

One side of Katerini's mouth went up and she shot a quick look at the thief, who fidgeted with his belt. "I'm from Corinth originally - Iolaus and I sort of grew up together, I guess. I moved here after my father...died." A cloud passed over her face, then her smile returned so quickly that Autolycus thought it a trick of the moonlight. "Let's see, that was the year that the boys went off to the Academy, so it was quite a while ago. I met Hercules when he brought Iolaus back to Alcamene's house for their first break."

"Well, it never hurts to hang out with the son of Zeus. So you've lived here for a long time. A pretty girl like you...Um, any jealous boyfriends or husbands I need to know about?" Autolycus gazed intently down at her, willing her to answer no. Katerini looked disconcerted, but before she could reply she heard a shout across the square.

"Autolycus, you blabbermouth, I can't believe you told Hercules about the chicken thing," Iolaus glowered at the thief as he marched across the square, fists clenched and arms swinging. He stamped up behind the couple, looking up at the taller man furiously. Turning his head to Katerini, his expression softened and a huge grin creased his face as he said, "Hey, Kat!" She turned and saw the hunter and the demi-god behind her. Her breath caught as always at Iolaus's beautiful wide smile, her face lighting up when she realized that he had followed her. Hercules walked up behind his friend, wiping his eyes and raising his hand to Katerini in a wordless greeting.

"Hey yourself, Io! I thought you stood me up!" As the musicians began to tune up, Kat squeezed Autolycus' arm and looked up appealingly at him. "Autolycus, you don't mind if I dance the first dance with Io, do you? It's a tradition." Iolaus's heart skipped a beat - she looked beautiful; pink cheeks, sparkling eyes and flashing dimples combining to trigger that warm feeling he normally associated with tavern wenches or maidens in distress. Thinking about Hercules' teasing, Iolaus began to wonder if maybe he and Katerini... 'No way!' he thought emphatically. 'She's like my SISTER!'

Autolycus had seen the way that Katerini lit up when Iolaus called her name and he most certainly did mind - a lot. It figured that Goldilocks would manage to ruin his good time. However, given the look on Iolaus's face, it seemed prudent to behave graciously.

"Naturally I hate to share you, even with Iolaus (Iolaus grimaced while Hercules smothered more laughter), but I don't want to interfere with tradition. You have fun, Katy, and I'll be here when you've finished," Autolycus said virtuously, then brought her hand slowly to his lips. He fixed his deep brown eyes on her blue ones and smiled as he caressed the back of her hand with his thumb and kissed it softly. Blushing, Katerini ducked her head and then turned to Iolaus, who tilted his blond head and rubbed his neck ruefully as he watched Autolycus put his considerable charm to work. 'Smarmy jackass,' he thought in irritation.

"Ready, Io?" Katerini asked gaily, grabbing his hand and pulling him to the center of the square. Iolaus matched her dazzling smile with a heart melting grin, facing her and taking her other hand in his own. Katerini surreptitiously checked him out - years of practice allowed her to scan him head to toe without being caught, taking in his golden curls, the laugh lines crinkling around his expressive eyes, the muscular tan chest, the form fitting leather pants...'Just don't go there, Kat,' she told herself. 'Not an option.' She peeked again despite herself, then focused on Iolaus' azure eyes as the music started. "So what's the chicken thing?"

As the two friends circled one another and wove in and among the other dancers, Autolycus frowned and watched. Hercules noticed his absorption and moved closer, crossing his muscular arms and mimicking the thief's watchful stance. As his eyes followed his friends' dancing, Hercules marked for the first time the intimate way that Iolaus and Katerini moved around each other, following each other's unspoken cues perfectly. Katerini's face glowed as she laughed at some jest of the hunter's. He pulled her close in response and pressed his cheek to hers as he swung her around the circle, shouting gleefully when she squealed.

'Brother and sister - yeah right. If that's brotherly love then he must be Ares,' thought Hercules. He glanced over at Autolycus who continued his intent observation of the couple unaware of Hercules' scrutiny. 'Poor guy,' he winced. "Autolycus, want to grab an ale or something?" Hercules asked.

"Huh? No, I'm good, thanks Hercules," Autolycus replied, absently stroking his mustache.

"You sure you're ok?" Hercules put a hand on the King of Thieves' shoulder. Autolycus started, then looked sheepishly over at Hercules.

"Sorry, big guy - I'm a little, um, well that is to say, I..."

"You're attracted to Katerini and she's a nice girl and you're worried it could get complicated." Hercules looked at the astonished thief with a guileless expression on his handsome face. His steady gaze held Autolycus' brown eyes as he added, "And you're not sure how Iolaus fits into the picture and you don't want to step on his toes or get him mad at you. That sum it up?"

"What...I don't know what you're talking about, Hercules." Autolycus stammered then recovered quickly. "I just enjoy spending the festival with a beautiful, intelligent woman who has a terrific sense of humor, and an amazing smile..." Realizing that he had tipped his hand, Autolycus back-pedaled rapidly. "We just had a few laughs, that's all. Nothing to get all sentimental about, or overprotective either."

Taking pity on him, Hercules squeezed the thief's shoulder and said, "I'm sure you believe that, Autolycus. I just want to warn you - Kat and Iolaus are two sides of a coin. They couldn't be closer. Just be careful, my friend."

Autolycus opened his mouth to deny the attraction, but catching Hercules' sympathetic blue eyes he changed his mind and nodded wordlessly. Hercules squeezed his shoulder again and the two men turned back to watch the display before them. Under the flickering torches, the various brightly-attired dancers moved to the music in a series of complicated steps. Men and women circled each other, broke apart and came back together in patterns that their village had performed from time immemorial. The designs formed and reformed as the lively tune floated over the crowded square, and occasionally a boisterous shout rose from the spinning couples as the band played more wildly.

As the song ended on a shout from the crowd, Iolaus picked Katerini up by the waist and twirled her as they both laughed like children. "Best yet, Kat!" Iolaus crowed up at the girl, grinning with delight. The light from the torches created a coppery-gold halo around her head as Iolaus held her up high, his arms wrapped tightly around her thighs. Kat smiled happily down at her partner, balancing herself on his powerful shoulders with both hands.

"Best yet, Io," she agreed, throwing her head back and laughing with sheer happiness. Iolaus caught his breath as he saw the reflection of the bonfire against the creamy skin of her throat. The hunter slowly lowered the giggling woman to the ground, then let her slip suddenly. Katerini squealed and grabbed for him as he swung her down into his arms and tickled her until she begged for mercy. Finally releasing her, Iolaus set her down lightly before him and offered his arm to escort her back to their friends. Laughing, she punched him as they walked back to Hercules and the King of Thieves.

"Baby!" she teased as he feigned injury and stumbled at the blow, snickering all the while at her mock anger.

"Harpy!"

"Bully!"

"Shrew!"

"Hydra!" they shouted in unison, pointing at each other and laughing as they staggered back to the demi-god and the thief.

Hercules looked down at Iolaus with a twinkle in his eyes. "How DO you do it, you sprite you?" he teased. "If Twanky could see you, she'd just explode with pride."

Iolaus took an exaggerated bow, blue eyes sparkling up through his tousled golden curls at the half-god. "Just naturally graceful, I guess," he deadpanned, then grinned and giggled maniacally.

Autolycus forced a bright smile onto his own face as he threw a possessive arm around Katerini's shoulders, and said, "Pretty impressive, my dear." She peeked up at him, her shining blue eyes crinkling at the corners. Autolycus squeezed her shoulders as he returned Katerini's smile and bent his head slightly, feeling himself falling into her gaze.

Iolaus' happy smile dimmed as he noticed Katerini dimpling up at Autolycus. "Your turn, stranger," she teased, grabbing the thief's arm and pulling him out to the square. "Let's see what you can do!"

"Delighted, my dear - with you as a partner, how can I help but be inspired?" the darkly handsome man responded, following obediently. He swept the smiling redhead into his arms and the couple disappeared into the twirling mass before them.

Iolaus felt an unfamiliar sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach. He didn't know exactly what bothered him about the scene before him, but he knew that he didn't like it. Not one bit. Turning to Hercules, he announced, "I need a drink, buddy - you in?"

"Sounds like a great idea," Hercules clapped his best friend on the shoulder. "Lead on, and maybe you can explain to me about the chicken thing." Iolaus shook his head, muttering, "very funny," under his breath. The two friends turned and walked back to the inn, Iolaus sneaking peeks at the dancers over his shoulder as they went. No, he didn't like this at all.

Chapter 4

As they danced, Katerini smiled up at the dark man circling her. "You're pretty light on your feet," she complimented him. Autolycus spun around then lifted the woman as they pivoted and moved to the right in perfect synchronization.

"Why thank you - in my line of work you have to be," he flirted back unthinkingly.

"You mean King of Thieves?" Katerini tilted her head quizzically and then stepped under their clasped hands, her pale blue embroidered skirt flaring as she spun back into the dark man's arms. Throwing her tousled head back against his shoulder, she gazed intently up at Autolycus as a small smile played about her lips.

"I see you've heard of me," he replied automatically, stroking his mustache and puffing out his chest slightly. 'Oh sure, the one time I DON'T want my reputation to precede me..." Autolycus thought in dismay, then quickly regained his composure.

Katerini smiled in amusement at his obvious pride, answering, "Well, once Hercules and Iolaus said that they knew you it didn't take much to figure out your identity - you're too fit for Salmoneous and too clever for Joxer. 'And too handsome for your own good,' she thought as her pulse quickened at his intense regard. She stumbled slightly, thrown off balance by the unaccustomed attraction she felt for this charming stranger.

"Easy, Terpsichore," Autolycus teased as he caught her in his strong arms, then asked, "Want to take a breather? Maybe get something to drink or go somewhere that we could talk some more?" While he spoke he gently rubbed his thumb against the soft skin inside her wrist. "What do you think?"

'Oh boy,' Katerini thought shakily to herself as color rushed to her cheeks. Grateful that the flickering torches hid her confusion, she answered, "Well, we could take a walk down by the river - it's quiet, and there are some benches where we could, um, sit and, um...." Realizing how that must sound, she felt her cheeks go scarlet again and ducked her head in embarrassment.

"Sounds perfect," Autolycus said softly, drawing Katerini's arm through his as he led her away from the crowd and into the darkness.

Chapter 5

The quarter moon hung just over the horizon as the couple walked down the path toward the river. The ripples broke the moonlight into a million sparkling pieces that flickered on the riverbank. Nervous, Katerini kept her gaze focused in front of her on the sandy path that meandered between the overgrown riverbank and the dark woods. 'Breathe, Katerini, breathe. It's no big deal, people do this all the time, it's just a walk in the moonlight, no need to make this into any more than it is.' Unconsciously she quickened her pace, rushing past the dark shapes of lovers strolling by the river.

"Dinar for them," a soft voice tickled in her ear. Katerini stopped dead. "Well, at least that slowed you down - I was beginning to think you wanted to race!" Shadow and light played across Katerini's expressive face as the King of Thieves turned her to face him, lightly holding her arms above the elbows as his warm brown eyes tried to capture her darting blue ones.

"Katy, what's up?" The next words out of his mouth surprised Autolycus. "Look, if you want we can go back...I don't want to rush you. I mean, if you're uncomfortable..." He blinked. 'What in Tartarus was that?' he thought, confused. 'I was in - a few smooth words, a caress and I had her! What am I, nuts?'

Katerini looked at her feet, then back at Autolycus. Oh gods, she had read the signs wrong - of course he couldn't possibly want to be with her. Why would he - he must know dozens of women, any of whom had more poise and beauty in one finger than she had...well, anywhere. "I'm sorry, you must think I'm pathetic!" she blurted out, her face a study in unhappiness and embarrassment. Unable to bring herself to look him, she turned in his grasp and attempted to run back up the path, but Autolycus's grip on her arms prevented her escape.

"You're wonderful," he told her sincerely as he gazed into her eyes, "wonderful. You have the most beautiful blue eyes. And you have such a pretty face," he brushed his knuckles lightly across her cheek, "such a pretty face...and your smile, gods! It's like sunlight. All I've been able to think about since I saw you in the marketplace is how sweet your lips would taste," he swallowed and continued softly, "how much I wanted to hold you." He took a shaky breath and continued, "You just seemed, I don't know, nervous - I just didn't want to frighten you." He pulled her closer, so that she stood mere inches away from him, and tilted her chin up so that he could look at her.

Forced to raise her eyes to meet his, she smiled uncertainly. Autolycus gently slid his hands down her bare arms, feeling her tremble as he slowly brought her hands up to his waist. As she slid her thumbs tentatively up and down over the rough green fabric of his tunic, she told him, "I'm fine - you're sweet. I'm not frightened, I...I trust you."

Trust. 'Oh, great,' thought Autolycus. 'Now I'm in deep.' Then his eyes caught hers and he felt himself drowning again. After a long, wordless moment, Katerini and Autolycus slowly leaned forward until their lips met. Slipping his arms around her waist he pulled the redhead into a warm embrace. She closed her eyes and parted her lips, as Autolycus tasted her willing mouth. Katerini softly kissed her way over to the faded scar on his jaw. The thief groaned and buried his face in Katerini's auburn hair. She smelled of spring flowers and cool breezes, and he couldn't get enough of her. He began kissing her again, this time his lips roaming over her face as he moved his hands lower on her back and pulled her to him.

As she ran her slender fingers through his thick wavy hair, Autolycus began nuzzling her neck, and she couldn't help giggling at the tickle of his mustache against her sensitive skin. She felt him smile in response against the curve of her shoulder. He drew his head back to look again into her eyes, now dark blue with desire. His own brown eyes appeared nearly black in the moonlight and Katerini saw herself reflected in them, so flushed and desirable that she barely recognized herself.

Autolycus wanted nothing more than to continue, but the same unprecedented instinct that caused him to offer to take her back to town made him speak again. "Katy, may I walk you home?" he whispered hoarsely.

Breathless and disappointed, Katerini leaned back in his arms, her right hand still toying with his thick hair. "OK. I guess I'm ready when you are." She paused, then looked up at him vulnerably. "Did I do something wrong?" she blurted out.

Autolycus pulled her close and rested his chin on top of her head. "Of course not, love! But as you pointed out earlier, we don't know each other very well and I don't want to take advantage of you. You look so lovely in the moonlight. It makes your eyes, they look like bright jewels...oh boy," he gulped. "I need to get you home fast."

Katerini hadn't heard a word after he called her "love". Hugging him tightly, Katerini leaned her head back and kissed his chin again. "Whatever you say," she murmured.

As they turned back and began strolling toward Katerini's house, neither one noticed a tipsy shadow weaving behind them, muttering under its breath. It moved cautiously from tree to tree, pausing only when the couple stopped to embrace. As they approached the cottage, the shadow melted into the woods and moved unseen up to the side of the porch, where it assumed a watchful position within earshot of the front of the house.

When they reached her front step, Katerini paused, not wanting the evening to end. The windows of the cottage loomed dark, but the moonlight revealed the comfortable pillow-filled chairs and dozens of clay pots of geraniums on the porch. Autolycus took her into his arms again. "How about I stop by tomorrow and take you to the festival again, sweetness?" he murmured, raining soft kisses over her forehead and closed eyes. "Maybe we could do a little more...dancing?"

"Mmhm," Katerini responded, nuzzling his neck, "dancing."

"Off to bed with you, then," Autolycus said reluctantly, brushing her lips with his thumb as he gently disengaged himself from her embrace. "Sweet dreams, Katy.'

Shyly lifting her pale face to his, Katerini whispered, "You too. Thanks - darling." She blushed and darted up the steps, turning to smile and wave before disappearing through the cottage doorway.

Autolycus gave a long, low whistle. "Oh boy," he muttered, "definitely in deep." He smiled and stroked the scar on his chin. Shoving his hands in his pockets, Autolycus watched her shadow against the windows as Katerini prepared for bed. After a few minutes, the thief shook himself, grinned and strolled off into the woods, humming softly.

After Autolycus passed, the shadow sat down and began cursing in a calm and methodical fashion, covering Autolycus' ancestry, past activities and future status in equally vivid and occasionally anatomically impossible detail. Finally, the shadow rose and looked back at the cottage. Uttering one last curse, one that, while short, exceeded all of his previous efforts in vulgarity, the shadow rubbed the back of his neck and headed back to Alcamene's house.

Chapter 6

Stretching her arms out over her head and arching her back, Katerini smiled and kicked off her favorite green blanket. Sunlight streamed through the doorway to her room, warming her toes as she wiggled them happily. She'd slept later than usual, but how could she wake up from such delicious dreams? Humming, she wrapped her arms around herself and grinned. She swung her legs over the edge of the bed; rose and danced over to the highly polished bit of metal that Iolaus had framed for her mirror.

"YOU have beautiful blue eyes," she announced gaily, pointing to her reflection, "I have it on good authority." Katerini grinned and stuck her tongue out at herself, turning to pick up the dress she had flung on the floor last night. As she hugged the dress to her chest, she spun around the room singing, "Lucky dress, oh you are my lucky dress, my lucky, lucky dress!" She dropped the newly beloved garment into the washing basket by the door and continued to twirl through her bedroom door and down the hall to the kitchen. Pumping herself a cup of water from the indoor pump that Hercules and Iolaus had built for her last summer, she drank deeply and then resumed singing.

"Cali Nikta, Agape Mu; I'll always remember you..." Katerini paused and giggled; she thought 'Good thing no one can hear me - they'd think I'd cracked!" Humming, she grabbed some bread, cheese and an apple and sat in the window seat at the far end of the room. As she looked out the window at the river, she replayed the previous afternoon and evening in her head. Smiling, she closed her eyes briefly as she re-lived Autolycus taking her in his arms and kissing her goodnight, murmuring...Katerini's eyes flew open and she jumped up as she remembered his parting words.

'Oh no - he's coming back today, and I don't have anything in the house, and it's a mess, and I've got nothing to wear - oh no!' Katerini started moving rapidly around the kitchen, picking things up and putting them down at random. After a few moments she stopped and took a deep breath. She needed help and guidance, and only one person could provide that. "Alcamene," she said aloud, "I'll go over to Alcamene's - she'll know what to do!"

Running back down the hallway to her room, Katerini slid on the polished wood and tumbled onto the bed. Scrambling to her feet as she pulled her night shift over her head, Katerini grabbed the first dress that came to her hand and threw it on. She slipped on her favorite arm bracelet and jammed her feet into the sandals by the door. Katerini ran her fingers through her tousled red hair, glanced in the mirror, shrugged her shoulders in dismay and bolted out the door.

Chapter 7

"Oh shit," Iolaus groaned, throwing an arm over his bloodshot eyes as Hercules pulled open the curtains to welcome the noonday sun. Smiling, the demi-god greeted his friend heartily.

"Afternoon, sunshine. How's the head?"

"Please Herc, I mean it this time - please just kill me. It would be a kindness, a mercy killing. Please... oh shit," Iolaus groaned and leaned over the edge of the rumpled bed as the few remaining contents of his abused stomach came up into a bowl on the floor. Wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, he sat up and looked beseechingly at Hercules. "What in Tartarus did I DO last night? Shit shit shit shit shit."

Hercules laughed. "Such poetry - you should think about becoming a bard. You drank at least a cask of ale, buddy. Then you went off somewhere for an hour or so, and when you stumbled in, you cried all over Mother, swore and took a swing at me and passed out. You kept muttering something about Aphrodite and a horrible curse. I put you into bed, and you've been out for hours." Hercules wrinkled his nose. "I think you might have fallen in the pasture on your way home, too."

Iolaus tried to remember the night before, but his throbbing head prevented him from forming a coherent thought. Whimpering, he lay back on the bed as Hercules continued with an evil smile, "Mother's gone to the market and Jason's out back in the garden - you want something to eat?" The green tint of the smaller man's face answered the demi-god's question as Iolaus shook his head emphatically, then hissed at the havoc the movement played with his pounding skull.

"Please, Herc - just one punch. Just to knock me out. I'm begging you!" The smaller man dug the heels of his hands into his closed eyes and groaned again. Hercules laughed and helped his protesting friend sit up and drink some tree bark tea to ease the hangover. Iolaus screwed up his face and complained, "Yuck, Herc, I'm not the only thing that fell in the pasture! What's IN this slop?"

"Sad and sorry, that's you, buddy," the big man teased as Iolaus lay back on the pillows, grimacing at the bitter taste. "Yeah, well, shut up," Iolaus retorted. "I really do wish you'd kill me, you know."

After a few minutes, the tea began to take effect and Iolaus was able to sit up gingerly on his own. "You want to tell me where you went last night?" Hercules asked. "Because if I'd known you planned to make that big a mess of yourself I'd have carried you home with me."

Wrinkling his forehead in an effort to concentrate, Iolaus tried to recreate the evening. "OK, I remember going to the inn with you and getting some drinks..."

"LOTS of drinks, pal - you had at least five rations of ale that I counted, and I lost track after the serving girl sat on your lap that third time and you bought a round for the house," his friend corrected him with amusement.

"Fine, whatever, lots of drinks - what serving girl? Never mind I don't want to know. Then you pulled your normal wet blanket routine and left for bed," Hercules rolled his eyes, "then," Iolaus's blue eyes widened and he quickly averted them from his friend's suddenly intent gaze. "Um, and then I guess I must have wandered around the festival for a while, then crawled home. Yeah, I'm sure I came home after that."

Iolaus assumed his most innocent face as he looked up at his friend. "Boy, glad we cleared that up. Thanks for the tea, buddy. Don't feel like you have to baby sit me - a quick nap and I'll be back on my feet. You just go on ahead and do...whatever." Iolaus lay back on the pillows and closed his eyes, deliberately slowing his breathing.

Hercules shook his head, smiling slightly. "Nice try, Iolaus. Unfortunately, that doesn't account for the mud on your boots." Iolaus looked at him with puzzlement and a little apprehension. "One of your old hunter's tricks - I checked your boots when I undressed you and threw you in here to dry out. Totally covered in river mud, with pine needles stuck on the bottom." Hercules folded his arms and looked sternly at his friend. "You went to Kat's house, didn't you? Please tell me you didn't mess things up for her."

"Maybe I kinda followed her home, but I had to make sure that rat wouldn't, you know, take advantage of her. And they didn't know, anyway - you know how quietly I track, Herc!" Iolaus looked mildly ashamed, but tried to cover by assuming a self-righteous air. "I'm surprised YOU left poor Kat alone with that, that, con man, Mr. Defender of the Weak!" He fell back on the pillow again, a wave of nausea overcoming him. "Damn. I still feel like crap."

"Don't try that Golden Hunter act with me," Hercules retorted, "you had so much to drink that you probably woke up every animal in the forest trying to sneak up on them." He shook his head. "You better hope that Kat doesn't find out what you did - she'll kill you. If you're lucky."

Iolaus sighed and looked at his big friend. "I know, I shouldn't have done it, but Herc, we're talking about Kat here. She's not exactly loaded with experience, you know, and her judgment about men stinks. And Autolycus! She can't handle a guy like that! He'll lead her along, use her, and maybe take advantage, then off into the night. He'll..."

"He'll what? Treat me nicely? Compliment me? Kiss me? Just because you can't imagine a man wanting me doesn't mean Autolycus has ulterior motives. Thanks for the vote of confidence, buddy." A soft voice full of bitterness and hurt came through the doorway.

The two men quickly turned to the doorway, where Katerini stood. Dressed in a bright yellow dress, her furious face the same color as her flaming hair, Katerini planted her hands on her hips and stared angrily at Iolaus. "Bad judgment, huh? Three words, little man - Xena, Warrior Princess. Don't you EVER follow me again, you condescending, hateful, arrogant jerk. EVER! In fact, just stay away from me!"

"Kat, honey, I was just..." Iolaus tried to spring to his feet, but sank back as a wave of dizziness got the better of him. Katerini turned rapidly and stalked back through the hallway, nearly running over Jason as she stormed past. Hercules jumped up from his seat and ran after her, shouting apologies back to Jason as he bowled him over on the way out.

"What happened?" Jason asked Iolaus, rubbing his arm as he looked back down the hall at the rapidly disappearing demi-god and the furious woman.

Iolaus just groaned, his arm flung over his eyes.

Chapter 8

"Kat! Kat, wait up!" Hercules ran after the furious redhead, grabbing her arm just as she reached the end of Alcamene's garden. "Wait - you know he didn't mean that! He's - Kat, we're both crazy about you, you know that." He looked down at the woman still struggling to get away from him, a worried expression on his face. Wrapping his muscular arms around her despite her squirming, Hercules picked her up and carried her to the wooden bench under his mother's rose arbor. He sat down, still holding Katerini in a gentle but unbreakable grip while she kicked and wriggled to get away, cursing both him and Iolaus with all of her breath.

Finally realizing that her efforts against the demi-god would have no effect, Katerini stopped fighting him and sat still. She stared at her knees sullenly, refusing to look at the big man.

Hercules took his friend's chin in his hand and tilted her face to look into his. "I'm sorry, Kat. I should have stopped him. You know how he gets when he's drinking, and he's so overprotective of you anyway..." His earnest blue eyes held her stormy gaze, pleading for understanding for his brother. "He thought he was looking out for you - he just wanted to make sure you didn't get hurt. Honestly, he meant well."

"Yeah, well, you know what they say about the road to Tartarus!" Katerini's gaze softened slightly. "It's not your fault, Herc. He's just so - oughf! Aggravating!" She clenched her fists and struck her thighs in frustration. "Every time a man even looks at me, Iolaus thinks they're trying to rob me, or defile me, or they're under some curse from the gods. I know I'm not Aphrodite, and it's not like there's a queue up outside my door, but he acts like I'm some freakish monster or something."

A cloud passed over her face and she shifted in Herc's lap to get a better view of his face. Katerini slipped to the bench next to the demi-god and linked her arm with his. "Am I that unlovable?" Katerini asked softly, leaning her cheek against Hercules' arm.

The big man looked down affectionately, brushing her cheek lightly with his free hand. "Come on, Kat, you know better than that. You're very lovable," he told her seriously. "And Iolaus loves you too - that's why he's such a horse's ass sometimes. It makes him crazy to think of anyone making you unhappy, and he's so focused on protecting you that he forgets that you're smart enough to take care of yourself." The demi-god smiled at her. "You really like Autolycus, don't you?" he asked.

Blushing, Katerini replied, "Yes. He's - so - different than anyone else I've ever met. So - charming. And - handsome. And..."

Hercules stopped her, laughing. "Thanks a lot, pal!"

"Oh, you know what I mean," she giggled in reply, squeezing his hand and leaning her cheek against his arm.

"He's not a bad guy, Kat. I don't approve of his profession, but Autolycus has his own kind of honor and a kind and generous nature, no matter how much he tries to hide it," Hercules said, then smiled. "Of course he's not good enough for you, but then who is?" He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and hugged her. "Better?"

Katerini nodded and answered, "A little, I guess."

"When do you think I should send Iolaus over to apologize? I know he's really sorry he upset you. After dinner this evening? You know he won't feel right until he squares things with you." Hercules looked down expectantly at the redhead.

Katerini stiffened at the mention of Iolaus then nodded doubtful assent at Hercules. She couldn't hold a grudge forever, but her oldest friend's words had hurt. Her face darkened as she replied, "He won't feel right until his hangover wears off." At the pleading look on Hercules' face, Katerini relented. "Oh, all right, I guess dinnertime is fine. But he'd better mean it. And he'd better bring flowers."

Hercules hesitated for a moment, then blurted out, "Kat, are you in love with Iolaus? I mean, I saw the way you danced together at the festival, and you've always been close, and, well, Autolycus isn't a bad guy but he's not Iolaus..." The demi-god's voice trailed off as Katerini stared at him. 'Uh oh,' he thought. 'Big mistake, Hercules.'

"What in Tartarus are you talking about? I'm no more in love with Iolaus than I am with, with you!" the indignant woman sputtered. "We're just good friends, and of course I love him, but I don't LOVE HIM love him!" Stopping in horror, Katerini grabbed Hercules' arm. "Gods, Herc, IOLAUS doesn't think I'm in love with him, does he? Is that why he's being such a... oh, you have to set him straight! Please, help me Herc - you know how he gets."

"No, no, I don't think Iolaus knows... I mean, THINKS you're in love with him. Jason thinks..."

"JASON thinks? Hercules, is there anyone you DIDN'T discuss your little theory with?" A thought struck her. "Hey, you and Jason didn't have a little chat with Autolycus, did you?" She stood, looking down angrily at the demi-god. "Honestly, you all act like you're my father or something. You think you know everything. I'm sick of the lot of you!" Katerini shook her head and walked quickly away before Hercules had a chance to respond.

"See you tonight?" he called hesitantly after her rapidly disappearing back.

Chapter 9

Autolycus strode up the path whistling. The late afternoon sun reflected off the river, turning it a rich gold flecked with silver splashes. Birds chattered and sang as the soft rush of the current provided a backdrop to their performances. The thief slipped his hand into his pocket for the hundredth time, fingering the silver pendant. 'Purchased. I purchased this. Autolycus if this gets out your reputation is shot,' he thought ruefully. He caressed the simple crescent again, remembering Katerini in the moonlight. Smiling, he whistled louder as he approached the welcoming porch of the cottage.

The smell of baking bread drifted out to greet him as Autolycus bounded up the steps to Katerini's door. He knocked and, continuing to whistle, paced back and forth awaiting a response. Suddenly, the door flew open and Katerini appeared before him, a smudge of flour on her nose. Smiling and wiping her hands, she stepped back and said, "Hello, Auto. Come on in."

"You look beautiful," he greeted her, removing the spot with his thumb then kissing the tip of her nose. He looked around the big central room as he walked over to the fireplace, noticing the many colorful pillows scattered about as well as the comfortable chairs and couches gathered around the hearth. Scattered across the low table in the center of the room Autolycus saw a number of scrolls and bits of wood carving in various stages of completion. Over the fireplace a large abstract carving in a dark shining wood that he didn't recognize dominated the room. "What a great room, Kat! Who made the carving over the mantle? Did you? It's pretty cool!"

Katerini replied curtly, "No, Iolaus made that - he does a lot of that kind of work in the winter when he can't hunt. Hey, would you like something to drink?"

"Sure, thing, angel," Autolycus replied, thinking happily, 'Hmmm, somebody's mad at the little guy. THAT can't hurt!'

Katerini slipped into the kitchen, returning quickly with two cups of cool water. As she handed one to Autolycus, he took the cup and placed it on the mantle. Taking her hand, he gently raised her palm to his lips, gazing deeply into her eyes. Autolycus smiled softy down at the flustered woman. "Hey, pretty lady," he leaned forward and murmured into her ear, "I brought you a little something." He pulled the necklace out of his pocket and dangled it in front of her. "It's to remind you of last night - it's nearly as lovely as you are."

Katerini's face shone. "You shouldn't have - oh, it's beautiful!" She looked up, crinkling her brow and asked, "Um, if you don't mind, where..."

The King of Thieves laughed. "Don't worry, love, I bought it fair and square. You're not receiving stolen goods, I promise."

Embarrassed, Katerini stammered, "I didn't mean to imply...I'm sorry. Please, would you?" She bowed her head.

The dark thief lifted that satin cord over her tousled auburn hair, saying, "Not at all, my dear - naturally you would expect someone with my talents to dispense with the more conventional means of commerce."

Raising an eyebrow, Katerini looked up at her companion with a wry smile. "And anyway I knew you wouldn't like it if I did anything like that," he hastened to add, dropping the bravado. Autolycus whistled low as he saw the crescent resting just below the hollow of her throat. Unable to resist, he bent to press his lips to the soft skin. Katerini sighed and bent her head back, smiling.

Rising to look into her blue eyes, he asked teasingly, "How set were you on going to the festival?"

Katerini laughed softly and twined her fingers in his dark hair. "Festival? What festival?" she asked as he drew her down onto the chaise near the fireplace.

Chapter 10

"I'm not going. I feel like an idiot. She'll forgive me eventually, won't she? Maybe if I slay something for her. Not a Hydra, though - too slimy. Maybe a Bacchae? What do you think, Herc - would Kat want a slain Bacchae?"

Iolaus wandered aimlessly around the room, still shaky from his hangover. His golden curls clung damply to his forehead from his bath, and he smelled faintly of sandalwood. He had changed into a soft blue shirt and dark brown leather pants, an outfit that he knew brought out his eyes. At least, that's what the serving girl at the inn had told him. Maybe it would help him out with Kat - at this point he'd try anything. He flushed and rubbed his neck - why did he think his appearance would matter to Kat? Stupid Hercules and his crazy ideas.

Hercules adjusted his gauntlets and ran his hands through his hair. Turning to his friend, he asked reasonably, "What would Kat do with a slain Bacchae? Just pick some flowers from Mother's garden - your problem is that you're too melodramatic." He pushed Iolaus through the door in front of him, saying, "Come on - it's getting dark and I don't want to miss dinner."

"But I thought you told her we would come over AFTER dinner? Are you sure Alcamene won't mind if I pick some of her flowers? What do you think - roses or daisies? Daisies seem more sincere don't you think? But she loves yellow roses. I don't know, Herc - daisies or roses? Can't I just wait until this blows over? Maybe I should just go to Thrace for a while." Iolaus kept up the running questions and commentary until they reached the garden.

"Stop babbling Iolaus and pick the flowers," Hercules said impatiently. "I'm hungry. You know Kat will have supper when we get there, so let's go. Daisies, not roses - she hates getting roses for an apology, you know that better than anyone." Iolaus picked an enormous bunch of daisies, sneaking in a couple of yellow rosebuds when Hercules looked away.

The two men walked off down the path to Katerini's house, the smaller one still chattering and gesturing nervously while the taller shook his head periodically in a combination of amusement and disgust. After ten minutes they rounded a turn and saw Katerini's cottage before them. By now the sun had dropped below the horizon and the long shadows of twilight extended over the porch. The dim shapes of the low-slung chairs and flowerpots on the porch gradually separated themselves from the house as Hercules and Iolaus became accustomed to the evening light. The river's constant dull roar provided the only sound.

Iolaus fell silent, then looked curiously up at his partner. "Any reason you can think of why Kat wouldn't have the torches lit? She did know we were coming over, right?"

Puzzled, Hercules stared at the house. Sure enough, the windows looked dark and the house seemed closed up. The partners looked at each other then cautiously approached the front steps. "You cover me, Iolaus - I'm going in," Hercules said quietly.

"Right behind you, buddy," the smaller blond replied, still clutching the flowers. Hercules moved soundlessly to the door as Iolaus covered his back. The demi-god tried the handle and whispered, "On three," to Iolaus. Simultaneously they shouted, "THREE," as Hercules threw the door open and the two men bounded into the room.

"What in Tartarus do you think you're doing?" a voice shouted at them from a dark corner by the fireplace. Iolaus spun around and fell to the floor as the speaker tackled him like one of the Furies. Hercules grabbed a piece of kindling from the fire and held it aloft, lighting the room. The flickering torch revealed a very disheveled King of Thieves jumping up from a long, low chair and attempting to pull a furious Katerini off of Iolaus. Hercules made short work of lighting the brass lantern on the table as Iolaus fended off blows from a kicking, scratching and swearing Katerini, covering his face and yelling, "Kat! It's me! Kat! Ouch! Cut it out!" Finally he struggled to a sitting position, wrapping his arms and legs around her and placing one hand over her mouth.

Gasping from the exertion, Iolaus looked up miserably at Hercules who struggled to stifle a smile. "Let her go, Iolaus," he ordered, lashing out behind him and grabbing Autolycus by the shirt without turning. "Oh no you don't," he chided the flustered thief, "If I've got to be here, you've got to be here."

"No way Herc - she'll kill me," Iolaus answered, then swore. "Ow! She bit me!" Glaring at each other, the blond and the redhead resumed their struggles. This time, however, Katerini had lost the element of surprise and Iolaus quickly subdued her by rolling her on her back and straddling her thighs, holding her arms down as he looked down at her triumphantly. "Give?" he asked.

A mistake that he instantly regretted as she broke one hand free and slapped him across the face. "I can't believe you would do this. What is wrong with you?" she shouted. In shock, Iolaus noted Katerini's swollen lips and the beginnings of a bruise on her neck, one that had a twin near the dark thief's collarbone. "Get out now before I kill you!"

"But Kat, I just came over to...Herc said...I brought flowers," the hunter said rapidly, jerking his head to indicate the now-wilted daisies scattered across the floor. "I'm sorry I made you so mad. Forgive me?" Iolaus assumed his most winning smile and cautiously released the girl, holding out his hand to help her up.

Katerini ignored the gesture, scrambled to her feet and reached for a piece of kindling. She raised it threateningly over her head. "Get. Out. Of. My. House. Now." she ordered in a low, flat voice. Autolycus started to speak then thought better of it as Iolaus shot him a furious look. "I mean it, both of you - out right now."

The two heroes looked at each other, then, recognizing that they couldn't reason with her when in this state they slowly backed toward the door. When it closed behind them, Katerini screamed wordlessly and threw the kindling after the heroes. She ran across the room and bolted it shut, then slammed her fist against the door in frustration. "Why can't they LEAVE me ALONE?" she yelled. She kicked the door for good measure, then howled in pain and grabbed her foot as she hopped up and down.

Autolycus looked around, unsure what had just happened. He strode across the room and put his arms around the agitated woman, gently pulling her back with him to the chaise by the fireplace. "Take it easy, Katy. I'm sorry if I caused any trouble," the dark man told her. "Here, sit down."

As her adrenaline rush subsided, Katerini started shaking. Burying her face in her hands, she rocked back and forth, muttering softly. Autolycus looked at her with a mixture of confusion and concern, uncertain how to proceed - usually fights like this one ended with him making a hasty departure in the interest of saving his own neck. He heard her whispering to herself, making out with difficulty the words "not like he loves," then, "what good does it do me?" Tentatively Autolycus placed one hand on her shoulder, wordlessly squeezing it in the hopes of comforting her.

Taking a deep breath, Katerini stopped rocking and sat up, turned to the King of Thieves and whispered tremulously, "Where were we, my love?"

Still shaken by the encounter, Autolycus pulled her close and whispered, "Right about here, sweetheart," as he kissed her.

Chapter 11

Outside, two friends held a heated albeit whispered discussion.

"We have to stop this. She's gone insane."

"She has not gone insane. She's just angry. You know her temper." They flinched at a loud crash from inside the cottage, followed by a thump, a second thump, a thud and a loud "Leave me alone!"

Iolaus turned back to the door, saying, "Honestly, Herc, I think she's gone nuts. She attacked me. ME! You can't just chalk that one up to red hair." Hercules pulled him back from the door and raised his voice a fraction.

"Iolaus, no one has gone nuts. Autolycus he likes her and she likes him. Looked perfectly normal to me. Get over it."

"We have to stay and make sure she's all right."

"We have to get out of here and let her cool off so she'll accept our apologies."

"But Herc..."

"We are leaving right now. We are not looking back. And we are NEVER going to walk into her house without knocking again. I don't care if we think Hera's in there."

Reluctantly the smaller man turned and preceded Hercules down the path, thus missing the mischievous glint in the demi-gods eyes.

"Oh, and I saw you smelling her hair back there," Hercules teased him. "You like her, don't you?"

"I was NOT smelling her hair, I was fighting for my life!" Iolaus retorted angrily, "can't you just drop it! I'm not in love with her, I'm not jealous of Autolycus, I'm not anything except out of here!" Iolaus abruptly turned onto a smaller path and went crashing through the underbrush, disappearing from sight in seconds.

Hercules blinked and looked after him, then sighed. 'You were too smelling her hair,' he thought and headed home.

Chapter 12

Iolaus slowed his headlong flight, listening to make sure that Hercules hadn't followed him. He looked around him, muttering, "I know it's around here someplace...there you are!" as he found the faint track off to his right. The hunter crept down the trail, checking frequently to make sure that he still was alone. After several minutes Iolaus sank onto his haunches and peered through the bushes at his objective.

Before him the river curved, slowing its pace and creating a peaceful backwater over-hung with huge moss-draped trees. The occasional splash of a fish interrupted the frogs' croaking. Stretching out from the shoreline, a large rock rose just far enough out of the water to provide the perfect spot to fish. Or think. Or cool off.

He rose and moved through the reeds to his rock. Ever since he'd found this place as a kid he'd brought his problems here for the river to wash away. Removing his boots, Iolaus sat at the edge of the rock and dipped his toes into the river. He wrapped his arms around his knees and closed his eyes again. Leaning his head back, the hunter forced himself to breathe slowly. His golden curls turned pale silver in the moonlight and the shadows of each passing cloud reflected the emotions running across the hunter's expressive face.

'Okay, that's better. Just relax Iolaus. Kat won't stay angry,' unconsciously he rubbed his aching jaw, 'she can't.' Despite his efforts to meditate, pictures of the evening formed in his mind. He watched himself bursting into the room. Turning at her cry and seeing (his fists clenched) Kat and Autolycus locked in an embrace. Kat leaping at him angrily as (he began grinding his teeth) Autolycus vainly attempted to grab her and pull his tunic closed at the same time. Staring mesmerized at Katerini's lips, rosy and wet from that bastard's kisses. His eyes moving across her flushed skin, noticing the heightened sparkle in her eyes - Zeus! She was adorable! Reliving their struggle, feeling this time her soft skin under his hands, smelling the intoxicating scent of her hair, feeling her thighs beneath his as he held her down, longing to bend down and kiss...

His burning blue eyes flew open in shock. He DID want Katerini for himself. "Oh, great, Iolaus, just great," he berated himself. "She's never going to speak to you again, and you decide that you...oh, just great." Dropping his head down on his folded arms, Iolaus rolled it back and forth. "So what do I do now?" he asked himself hopelessly.

Cautious footsteps alerted the hunter that someone approached. Before Iolaus could move, a dark figure moved stealthily into the cove along the riverside path. Just then, the moon appeared from behind a cloud to reveal...

"Autolycus." Iolaus looked heavenward and rolled his eyes. "Very funny - anything else you want to throw at me? A couple of angry warlords, maybe?"

The King of Thieves stood upright, a trapped look fleetingly appearing on his face. "Iolaus. I thought this path led back to the village. Sorry to disturb you - I'll just be on my way now," he commented smoothly as he edged farther down the path past the rock.

"What in Tartarus are YOU doing here?" Images of the thief and Katerini burned before his blazing blue eyes. "You didn't hurt Kat, did you? So help me, I'll kill you if you hurt her!" Iolaus delivered the threat through gritted teeth.

The thief drew himself up to his full height, glaring scornfully at the hostile hunter. "For your information, short stuff, I left Katerini after a delightful evening, one marred only, I might add, by your uncouth intrusion. After you left, however, we managed to salvage the mood (he stroked his mustache suggestively) quite nicely.

Iolaus uttered a growl and leapt at Autolycus, who neatly sidestepped his attack and moved behind a tree. Taunting the blond, the thief dodged left and right to avoid his blows as he continued, "Yes, like most women, Katy appreciates my...skill with my hands." At that, Iolaus feinted right and punched Autolycus square in the nose. His eyes rolling back in his head, Autolycus managed to gasp, "Oh no, not the face," before falling to the ground.

He awoke to a handful of scummy water in his face. Iolaus had seated him against a tree before splashing him. Warily Autolycus followed the hunter's movements through slitted eyes, trying to determine how to play this.

"I know you're awake, Autolycus," a weary voice informed him, "so you can stop faking."

Autolycus opened his eyes and gingerly felt his rapidly swelling nose. "Ouch! You pack a wallop for a little guy," he commented, grimacing as he checked to make sure nothing was broken. He looked around for his attacker. Iolaus sat next to him, tiredly leaning back against the broad tree trunk. The hunter looked exhausted - one arm rested on his bent knee, his knuckles reddened from the force of his blow to Autolycus's face as well as...

"Hey, is that my BLOOD?" Autolycus asked indignantly, moving his hands back to his throbbing face. "Why I oughta..." Suddenly wary, Autolycus looked around suspiciously. "Hey, the big guy isn't out here, is he? No? Good."

Iolaus shook his head, then leaned it back against the tree trunk and looked up at Autolycus through narrowed eyes. "You want to tell me why you're really sneaking along the river bank in the middle of the night, jackass? And no more smart remarks about Kat, or I'll break your jaw."

The thief paused, weighing his options. He really liked Katerini, but this wasn't really about her - he just couldn't help antagonizing the little blonde man. His healthy respect for the hunter's temper equaled his need to drive the guy crazy. Deciding that discretion was indeed the better part of valor, he offered, "Well, it's pretty late so after Katy calmed down and we exchanged a few (he shot a glance at the man across from him) pleasantries, I kissed her good night as any gentleman would and left. She thought that, given your previous interference, the river path might make a better route back into town." He glared at Iolaus, adding, "Of course, she didn't think you'd set up an ambush for me."

"Don't flatter yourself." Iolaus retorted sarcastically.

"Listen, Goldilocks, I don't know why you're all bent out of shape. It's not my fault Katy prefers tall, dark and handsome to short, blonde and sidekick." Squinting at him, Autolycus added, "You're just jealous of my superior way with women."

"Katy just got snowballed by your alleged charm - she's a nice kid and doesn't see through you like I do," Iolaus replied forcefully. "You just want to amuse yourself until your next big caper comes along or the heat blows over from the last one. You don't know anything about her and what she prefers."

Autolycus laughed, "Hohoho, so you admit I'm charming? And I know lots about her. What do you know, anyway?" Thinking quickly, Autolycus asked, "Did you know that she carves figures out of wood?"

Iolaus sat up, rising to the implied challenge and answered, "She does mostly villagers and some wild birds. They're really good - I've got a couple at my house."

"Oh," Autolycus responded, deflated. Recovering, he asked, "Yeah, well, did you know that she likes ale but drinks wine because she thinks it's more ladylike?"

"She drinks wine because when we were eleven, she and I sneaked into her father's barn and got drunk on ale - she got really sick and her father..." Iolaus trailed off, then continued, "she hasn't been able to stomach it since."

Autolycus slumped back against the tree, temporarily defeated. Suddenly, he sat up and beamed triumphantly, pointing at the hunter. "I know! I bet you didn't know that she hates fishing!" The thief crossed his arms and leaned back the tree in satisfaction.

"She doesn't hate fishing, she hates worms. Actually, she's afraid of them." Iolaus smiled, his features softening as he continued, "Once when Herc and I came home from the Academy, we got caught in a rainstorm over there," gesturing toward a clearing on the far side of the rock. "We stood under that big gingko tree trying to keep dry when we heard a sneeze above us. We looked up and saw Kat sitting in the tree, soaked to the skin and shivering." Caught in the memory, Iolaus didn't notice how intently Autolycus watched and listened.

"When we asked her what she was doing, she just shuddered and pointed down. Huge pink and brown earthworms covered the clearing - the rain had driven them out of the ground. We had to take tree branches and brush them all out of the way before she'd come down." Iolaus rubbed his neck and shook his head fondly at the memory. "Poor kid - I don't know what she hated more, the worms or getting caught. She kept saying, 'I know it's not a hydra, but they're so SLIMY!'" He laughed softly at the memory.

Autolycus looked over at the hunter and replied quietly, "I bet I know one thing about her you don't know." Iolaus looked up at the change in tone as Autolycus said, "I bet you don't know that you're in love with her."

Something in the taller man's tone checked the hunter's hot denial. Brown eyes locked with blue until Iolaus appeared to decide something. Looking steadily over at Autolycus, Iolaus asked, "Do you know why Kat lives by the river?" Confused, Autolycus shook his head. In the same expressionless voice, Iolaus said, "Because her father drowned in Corinth when she was eleven."

Autolycus looked surprised and more than a little lost. "What has that got to do with..." he began, when Iolaus stopped him with a gesture.

Iolaus sighed and continued, "He'd beat up her mother again and came out to the barn to get some ale, just a regular day in the neighborhood. We'd spilled or drank most of a cask - you know, kid stuff - and were just lying there, practically passed out. Tyros went nuts - he grabbed Kat and started shaking and swearing at her. I tried to stop him," Iolaus paused and fingered the faint scar over his right eye, "and got a kick in the head. Kat broke free and ran down to the river - I don't know how she did it, her arm was broken. He took off after her and caught her by her hurt arm. She screamed and struggled, but he back-handed her and she went down."

Looking down at his white knuckles, Iolaus deliberately unclenched his fists, drew a deep breath and continued in a monotone. "He picked her up and started shaking her again, then threw her to the ground. I ran down and grabbed his arm again, but he shook me off and kicked me in the stomach. Kat had managed to crawl out of his reach, but when she saw him kick me she lost it - kind of like tonight. She screamed and charged him. He didn't expect it - he slipped and hit his head on a boulder, then fell into the current. We both stood there and watched him drift downstream - we knew he couldn't swim."

Iolaus roughly drew the back of his hand across his eyes, then looked over at Autolycus. "We hid out here for two weeks, camping out. I set her arm with a couple of sticks - we ate berries and fish." He laughed harshly. "Do you know, no one even noticed we were gone until a day or so before we came back? They found Tyros down-river - Kat's mother told them he'd been drinking and they figured he got drunk and fell in." Iolaus hung his head and finished, "Her mother cried for days, and gave Tyros the most elaborate funeral they could manage - Kat and her sisters ate porridge for weeks after that." Iolaus looked up, piercing blue eyes dry again. "Kat lives here to remind herself about the dangers of love. Until you showed up, she's never...no one else knows that story."

Autolycus didn't know what to say. Shifting awkwardly, he looked down at Iolaus, sympathy in his eyes. "Does she know?" he persisted.

Iolaus smiled sadly. "Doesn't much matter...she appears to have chosen you, at least for now." The hunter stood slowly and looked down at Autolycus, whose nose had doubled in size and whose eye looked like a plum. "You'd better get a cold compress on that," he offered, then turned and vanished into the woods.

Chapter 13

Katerini couldn't sleep. After tossing and turning for what seemed like forever, she finally gave up and padded out to the kitchen for some water. Taking a kiwi from the bowl on the table she stood at the window, staring unseeing through the trees at the river. She didn't notice that the sky had begun to brighten.

A smile drifted across her face as she thought of Autolycus. She fingered the silver crescent at her throat, remembering the heat of his lips on her skin. 'Dangerous,' she thought, 'very dangerous.' Unbidden, other visions formed - muscular thighs trapping hers, strong arms around her as she struggled, a golden tangle partially obscuring blue eyes as she looked up...

Like another blue pair the night before, Katerini's eyes flew open. 'I thought I had this under control. You'd think I'd know better by now.' Distracted, she walked to the back door and stepped out on the small porch. Dropping the remains of the fruit into the garden, she noticed a dark shadow on the stone bench by the riverside. She unwillingly smiled - so predictable. Katerini sighed, then returned to the kitchen and filled two cups with lemonade. Walking quietly across the dew-covered garden, she slipped onto the bench next to the hunter.

Iolaus jumped to his feet and looked down at Katerini, hands clasped behind him. "Kat, honey, I'm sorry - I didn't know where else to go."

"Did I do that?" she asked disinterestedly, looking at his swollen jaw as she handed him the cup. Accepting it, he sat close beside her. Promptly she inched further away.

He sighed and absently stroked his jaw. "Yes."

She shrugged. "Sorry."

"No problem."

They sat silently on the bench. Iolaus stared at the cup that he turned in his hands, uncertain of where to begin or what he even wanted to say. Katerini stared straight ahead, refusing to break the silence.

"Kat, I'm so sorry if I upset you," the hunter finally said, his voice so low that Katerini had to strain to hear him. "You know I never mean to make you unhappy. Just, seeing you...I thought...you're so trusting, and I wanted to take care of you. Please forgive me - I can't stand it when you're mad at me." He tentatively reached over to take her pale hand in his, looking over at her face for the first time. Although her expression was stony, two bright spots of color stained her cheeks. She turned away, refusing to meet those intent eyes.

Leaning forward, he pressed his lips to her shoulder. "Please," he whispered.

"It's not that simple," she answered softly. "This isn't just about yesterday morning, or even last night. You really hurt me, Io. You don't trust my judgment. You think men only pretend to want me for some evil purpose. I thought you were my friend, that you might be happy for me. But instead..."

Iolaus moved his hand to her shoulder in wordless apology. Reaching up and pulling it into her lap, she stared at it as if it contained the answers to all of her questions. "Instead you acted all crazy - like you were jealous or something. But we both know that wasn't it, so why? Why did you act like my...like such an ass?

Iolaus looked at the top of Kat's head in dismay. Had he really acted like her father? Her words hid some other emotion too - disappointment? Did she WANT his jealousy? He bit his lower lip - he'd always read Kat's feelings perfectly, but now he didn't trust himself. Slowly he reached over and cupped the back of her neck with his hand, lightly stroking it with his thumb. She shuddered, then shifted out of his reach.

"You're always there for me, Kat. Whenever I want you or need you...I guess I'm just not used to the idea of, I don't know, you belonging to someone." Iolaus rose to his feet, adding, "I hope you and Autolycus are very happy."

Her head flew up. Eyes blazing, she retorted, "Io, you moron, I don't 'belong' to anyone. I met the man two days ago." She shook her head. "You're unbelievable."

"But," Iolaus answered, bewildered, "I thought - at the festival, and then last night..."

Katerini ticked off on her fingers, "He's very attractive. I like him a lot. I hope to see more of him. I BARELY KNOW HIM!" her voice getting slightly louder and more irritated with each item. "I'm not like you, I don't fall into bed with every pretty face I see five minutes after I see it."

"You're not? I mean, of course you're not - not that I do, I mean you're, I mean, of course you COULD if you wanted to, I mean, you really haven't..." Iolaus babbled, a wide grin splitting his face. He threw himself back down on the bench and hugged her enthusiastically.

"Iolaus, you're babbling." Katerini looked confused and irritated, but she didn't break free of his embrace.

After a moment, the hunter relaxed his grip and impulsively leaned forward lightly brushing Katerini's lips with his own. He felt rather than saw her rapid intake of breath and repeated the kiss. This time, she softly returned the pressure. As he slowly deepened the kiss her hands moved to tangle in his hair, her fingers twining among the curls as he pulled her closer.

Suddenly she broke free, saying breathlessly, "You don't play fair, buddy." She turned and ran back to the house, closing the door firmly behind her.

Running his hand through his hair, the hunter looked at the closed door. On the minus side, it didn't look like she'd forgiven him. On the plus side, that kiss...Iolaus smiled. That kiss was one hell of a plus.

Chapter 14

"So then, he's got his arms and legs wrapped around her, and she's slamming her head back trying to get him in the face and he's," Hercules paused, choking with laughter.

"Wait, wait, I know...he was smelling her hair!" Jason snorted. Hercules nodded, speechless with mirth as tears rolled down Jason's face. The remains of fruit and bread lay before them on the table along with half-full cups of tea, and Jason picked up some grapes and popped them into his mouth. "That boy would get turned on by a fight with Arachne!"

"Actually," Hercules tried to regain his composure, "I think he did." The two men collapsed with laughter again as Alcamene smiled indulgently at their mirth.

"No one got hurt, did they?" she asked. "Where's Iolaus now?"

"Oh, we left after Kat threatened us with the kindling. Then he got mad when I asked him," Hercules started laughing again, "about the hair thing. He went off into the woods - I think he probably spent the night at that secret fishing hole of his."

"That guy has been using the same stuff since the Academy!" Jason snickered, holding his stomach. "You'd think he'd develop a new approach."

Hercules responded seriously, "Well, there was that one girl..." A twinkle appeared in his eyes as he continued, "Oh wait, she was bald." Gales of laughter shook the table as the two men dissolved at the memory.

Alcamene looked at her two men fondly. Poor Iolaus - he didn't stand a chance. "So when do we get to meet Katerini's new admirer? Darling, you should invite them over to dinner. Iolaus too - we'll make it a family party."

Looking a bit uncomfortable, Hercules said slowly, "Actually, Mother, I don't know if Kat's too thrilled with us at the moment. And I'm pretty sure Iolaus won't want to..."

"Nonsense, dear - you'll just apologize and ask them for tonight. Here, I'll write a scroll - it will be fine." Alcamene brushed off his objections and left the room.

Hercules looked helplessly at Jason, who shrugged. "Hey, I'm not arguing with her - you know how she gets, and I have to live here."

Returning, Alcamene handed three scrolls to Hercules. Puzzled, he asked, "Three?"

"One for Katerini and her friend, one for Iolaus, and one with the things I need you to pick up at the market. Thank you darling," she kissed Hercules on the top of his head, "you're a big help." Alcamene turned and, winking at Jason walked out into the garden.

"How does she do that?" Hercules wondered, looking over at Jason.

"When you find out, buddy, could you let me know?" Jason responded.

Chapter 15

Hercules moved through the crowd, occasionally consulting his list and stopping to purchase something from one of the booths. Every few feet or so he had to stop to shake a hand, receive a kiss of gratitude or greet an old friend. Although it was good to be home, he wished sometimes that he wasn't so...visible.

"Psst." Hercules paused in his examination of a tomato and looked around. A pretty blonde smiled at him, and he smiled back sheepishly, raising one hand to wave and then realizing that he still held the fruit. The girl giggled and waved back, blushing.

"Psst. Over here." The demi-god looked around, confused, and then spied a cloaked figure hunched over at the side of the stable beckoning furiously. Cautiously Hercules followed as the stranger turned and slipped inside. That voice seemed somehow familiar...

"Hercules, am I glad to see you!" The stranger straightened and turned to the hero.

"Autolycus? Why are you wearing that cloak? You've got to be dying of the heat!" A suspicion hit him and he grabbed the front of the cloak, lifting the man off the ground. "Is Kat alright?"

"She's fine, she's fine, put me down!" 'Next time, definitely an orphan girl who's new in town,' Autolycus thought as he struggled to get free of Hercules' grip. The hood of his cape fell back. Surprised, Hercules put him down.

"What in Tartarus happened to you?" A black eye and a bruised and swollen nose distorted the King of Thieves normally handsome features. Blood matted his mustache and covered his split lower lip.

"I...ran into a low branch on the path back to town last night. That's not what I wanted to talk to you about. Um, have you noticed any, um, Athenian guards wandering around town?" The thief's attempt at nonchalance belied the worry in his brown eyes. Suddenly, he swayed and put a hand out to balance himself. Hercules stepped forward quickly and caught him before his knees buckled. "Okay, so maybe I'm not in top form at the moment. I'll be fine," Autolycus protested as Hercules held him steady.

"We need to get you cleaned up," the hero commented, "you're a mess." Hercules looked at the thief appraisingly for a moment, then bent and lifted him in his arms. Autolycus protested, but the demi-god ignored him and started walking toward Katerini's house.

"Now what?" Katerini wondered as she wiped her hands absently on her skirt. She'd cleaned every inch of the cottage in an effort to take her mind off of Autolycus and Iolaus, with little success. As she watched Hercules approach, she tried to figure out what the black bundle he carried could be. "Not an apology gift, please," she prayed - the last time Hercules apologized to her, she'd eaten venison for six months.

"Kat! Kat, come here, I need your help!" Hercules shouted. Hearing the urgency in his voice, Katerini ran down the steps to meet the demi-god. A cape and hood wrapped around the bundle in his arms hid any identifying clothing as well as the victim's head. "Come on in," she said, holding the door and allowing Hercules to carry the person inside.

"He was okay until about a minute ago, then I think he passed out," Hercules offered, gently depositing his burden by the fireplace. Kat began gently unfastening the cloak, ordering Hercules to get a basin of water and a cloth from the kitchen. "Um, before I do that, you need to know..." Hercules began, but it was too late.

"Auto!" she gasped, "oh, what happened to you?" One eye had swollen shut and turned an appalling shade of purplish-black, while the handsome thief's aquiline nose looked like a potato - a big, lumpy, purple and green potato. His split and swollen lower lip began bleeding again. "Who did this to him?" At her voice, Autolycus stirred and opened his good eye. "Katy! I'm sorry you had to see me this way, my dear," he said, attempting a suave smile and then wincing in pain.

"What happened to you, sweetheart?" Katerini took the cool cloth that Hercules brought and began gently wiping away the blood and grime on the injured man's face.

"As I told the big guy, it was my own clumsiness. I walked into a low branch on the way home last night - I'm afraid the memory of your kisses distracted me, angel," he replied, catching her hand and looking into her worried blue eyes.

Still fixated on his battered face, Katerini looked over Autolycus with concern. Her eyes became piercing as she asked, "How low was the branch? About this high?" holding her hand an inch over her head, "blond, curly leaves? Makes a lot of noise? Packs a serious punch?"

Autolycus hesitated, then said, "No, not at all. Just clumsy me - walked right into a tree. Knocked myself out, broke my nose, fell down and split my lip. Don't underestimate," he said softly, "your ability to distract a man, Katy." 'You owe me, Blondie,' the thief thought, uncertain why he'd lied to protect the other man.

"Now, about those Athenian guards..." Hercules interrupted, "why are you so interested in them?" Hercules looked threateningly down at the thief, wearing what Iolaus referred to as his Zeus face.

"Hercules, he's hurt! Lighten up, will you?" Katerini shot Hercules an acid look. Turning back to her patient, she asked sweetly, "Does that feel any better, Auto?" as she gently finished cleaning his wounds.

"Much better. Thank you, my sweet," the grateful man said faintly. "I think, if it's alright with you, dearest, that I'll rest a little now." Autolycus closed his good eye and slowed his breathing, listening intently to hear if his little deceit had worked. Unfortunately, his injuries soon turned his fake sleep into a real one.

"Come on Herc, let's let him rest," Katerini said softly, brushing a wayward lock of hair out of the sleeping man's face and then turning to push the demi-god into the other room. Entering the kitchen, Katerini turned on her heel and crossed her arms. Staring up defiantly at Hercules, she demanded, "All right, what's going on here?"

Defensively, Hercules answered, "Hey, I haven't seen him since last night!" Having the grace to blush, he moved on rapidly, "He told me the same story he told you - he lost a fight with a tree branch. I didn't believe it either, but YOU wouldn't let me question him."

"What's all this stuff about the Athenian Guard? Why did you want to know about that?" Katerini pushed on determined to find out the truth.

"Autolycus asked me about them before he passed out back in the village. I saw some strange soldiers asking questions this morning, but didn't really pay any attention." Hercules looked thoughtful then smiled at Katerini. "I'll just head back and find out what's going on. You keep an eye on him, Kat - I'll be back soon with some answers."

As he turned to go, Hercules stopped, remembering his original errand. He handed Katerini a scroll. "Here, Kat - it's from Mother. She wants you two to come to dinner tonight." Embarrassed, the demi-god turned again and moved toward the door.

"Dinner?" Katerini asked.

"You know how she is, Kat - it's easier to just go along." Hercules left, calling back, "See you in a little while," as he strode back toward Thebes.

"Dinner." Katerini shook her head, then looked over at the sleeping man by her hearth. Smiling determinedly, she whispered, "There's more than one way to get answers, Hercules."

Chapter 16

Snatches of music drifted across the bustling square as shouting children chased each other, their laughter ringing above the sounds of the market day crowds. Everyone had worn their finest garb to town and the sometimes-garish combinations made the sunny day seem even brighter. In front of the inn, men in various stages of sobriety slouched on a rough bench by the door, while couples and families chattered and ate at the long tables the owner had dragged outside to take advantage of the beautiful day and the last of the festival crowds.

"Hey, handsome - bit early for you, isn't it?" the pretty blonde serving girl teased the man resting his head on his fist at the end of the table. His slumped shoulders and exhausted posture belied his normal energy as he raised tired blue eyes to smile at her.

The hunter answered, "Never too early to have a look at you, Mellesande - hey, any chance of some stew?" His stomach rumbled as he rubbed it ruefully, saying, "I didn't get much in the way of food yesterday."

She winked. "I'm not surprised after your performance the other night! Bet you didn't have a dinar in your pocket when you crawled out of here." Leaning down, she whispered in his ear, "Next time, don't be in such a rush to run away, pretty eyes." As she turned to fetch his meal, she raised an eyebrow and blew him a kiss.

Iolaus grinned sheepishly - Melle - he should have known. Closing his eyes briefly, he wished he had time for a nap - it felt like he hadn't slept in days. Maybe because, except for passing out, he hadn't. Iolaus rubbed his neck and muttered to himself, "Concentrate, Iolaus - you need to figure out what to do about Kat." Lost in thought, Iolaus didn't notice at first when two somberly dressed Athenian Guards approached his table and sat down, gruffly ordering ale and stew.

"I can't believe this," complained a big man with a shaved head and an enormous black mustache. "Why can't we just start banging some heads together? That'll get answers in a hurry!"

"Quiet, you imbecile," his tall, white-haired companion hissed. "Don't draw attention to yourself.

"But we'd find this Autolycus guy faster if Costa would just let us get physical? No one here's talking - we need to start beating the truth out of people!" Baldy cracked his knuckles and glanced menacingly over at Iolaus, still lost in thought.

"Listen, Austinus, if anyone finds out about Costa's part in this he'll be ruined, which means we're out of business. So no force," the taller man replied.

"That's what he gets for marrying a tomato 30 years younger than him, anyway," the first man leered suggestively. "That Lissa - yeow! You can't blame this King of Thieves - I'd commit a few crimes, too, if..." He stopped speaking suddenly as the older man suddenly held his knife to his throat.

"Fool! Shut up! You're paid to get answers, not shoot off your mouth." Looking around cautiously, the white-haired guard sheathed the blade and added softly, "We don't have the stone back yet, so keep quiet until we do."

Iolaus stiffened imperceptibly at the mention of Autolycus. Of course he'd assumed the thief was on the run from one escapade or another, but the mention of Costa puzzled him. He knew of only one Costa that had access to the Athenian Guard - the chief magistrate of Athens, an older man known throughout Greece for his fairness and incorruptibility. Costa didn't seem a likely candidate to get mixed up with the King of Thieves, except maybe at a sentencing hearing. What's more, Iolaus couldn't remember the last time the thief had stolen something without bragging about it - his love for recognition had always exceeded his love for larceny. Something about this didn't add up.

The blonde man casually glanced over at the guards, pretending to notice them for the first time. "Hey, are you guys really Athenian Guards?" he asked with skepticism tinged by wonder. "What are you doing here? Are you looking for a criminal? Anyone I know?"

The guards looked over with mild impatience. Baldy answered, "Yes, we're looking for a man known as Autolycus, the King of Thieves. He may be disguised, but he's tall, dark-haired, beard and mustache, green tunic, white shirt and brown leggings. Here's a drawing - have you seen him?" The big man pushed a scroll with a sketch over to Iolaus, who pretended to examine it.

"Sorry, haven't seen anyone who looks like that today," Iolaus replied guilelessly. Which was true - Autolycus didn't really resemble that picture at the moment. Today he looked more like a gorgon, but without the snakes. Iolaus stifled a giggle at the thought. "What did he do?"

"Never mind. You just let us know if you hear or see anyone suspicious around - we'll be here until tomorrow," the white-haired man interrupted.

"Sure thing - don't need any criminals hanging around!" Iolaus responded cheerfully, rising and throwing a few dinars on the table. "Good luck, fellas."

"Hey, curly - you didn't finish your stew," Mellesande protested, putting one hand possessively on his shoulder as she tapped the bowl in front of him. "Don't make Melle have to feed you!" Iolaus sank back down on the bench and obediently finished shoveling in the food at his normal rapid pace. "That's better, honey - you just eat up like a good boy and I'll bring you a treat," the blonde offered slyly as she pinched his cheek.

"Thanks, but I'm full, honest," Iolaus answered with his mouth full. "No treats for me, got to watch my weight."

"You sure you're okay, doll-face?" a disappointed Mellesande asked.

Swallowing, Iolaus looked up and gave her a half smile. "Maybe later, Melle." He winked, and she giggled and walked back inside. The hunter rose again, offered a half-shrug to the guards and walked nonchalantly across the square and down the road to Alcamene's house. 'I need to find Hercules,' he thought grimly, 'and then have a little talk with the King.'

Chapter 17

A soft tickling sensation in his ear made Autolycus smile sleepily. It was followed by another warm breath, then a soft kiss that made him draw up his shoulder and sigh in delight. "Auto, sweetheart, are you awake?" a tender feminine voice whispered.

"Not if it means you're going to stop blowing in my ear, baby," he murmured, snuggling into the pillows.

"I just wanted to make sure you're okay," the soft voice replied as a gentle hand ran through his hair. "You know, with your head and all."

Opening his good eye, it took a moment for him to focus on the disheveled auburn head next to his. Brilliant blue eyes sparkled as Katerini leaned in to gently kiss his damaged lips. "Did that hurt, darling?" she asked, running a finger down his chest. "I'll stop if I'm hurting you."

"Oh no, you're fine, don't stop," Autolycus answered quickly, "that's great, actually."

"I'm glad." Katerini slipped from the couch to the floor, continuing to move her hand lazily over the thief's chest. Kneeling beside him, she bent her head to his and kissed him again, less gently this time. Autolycus moved one arm around her circling her waist while his other hand stroked her hair.

Slowly disengaging her lips from his, Katerini smiled sweetly at the injured man. "Darling," she asked, moving to nuzzle his neck, "Why did you want to know about the Athenian Guards?"

Distracted by her touch, Autolycus continued to run his fingers through her hair as he held her. "What, angel?" Suddenly he stiffened in her arms. "What about the Athenian Guards?"

"I don't know, Auto, you asked Hercules about them and I wondered why," Katerini pulled back, sitting on her heels. "You seemed kind of upset and, what with the broken nose and all, I just thought you might be in some kind of trouble. Are you? In trouble, I mean?" She rested her palm on his chest, adding, "Maybe I can help."

"Where's Hercules, Katy?" A dark suspicion crossed his mind and Autolycus sat up. "He went to get the guards, didn't he? Oh great, just great. That's it, no more redheads." Autolycus jumped to his feet, knocking over Katerini in his eagerness to get to the door.

"Ow! Auto, Hercules went into town to find out what's going on - I just figured I'd ask you directly. No one went to get any guards." Katerini looked hurt and angry, sitting on the floor rubbing her shoulder. Autolycus looked down at her and his face softened momentarily. He had to tell her something.... Feeling like a heel for deceiving the earnest girl, he settled on partial truth.

"I'm sorry Katy. You see, somebody stole the amethyst of Athens. With all of the tight security around it, only a brilliant thief could have pulled off the heist. And naturally, whenever an impossible theft occurs, I'm the first suspect. After all, my dear, I AM the King of Thieves." Not noticing as Katerini rolled her eyes, he continued, "Unfortunately, not everyone admires artistry such as mine, so I had to make a rather, um, hasty exit. Of course, while I COULD have pulled of the job with ease, in fact I didn't steal the amethyst." 'Well, that's true,' he thought defensively. 'It wasn't the REAL amethyst.'

Aloud he continued, "With my reputation, it didn't seem prudent to wait around until they figured that out, though - prison and I don't agree with one another. Something about bad food, no fresh air, and big men who haven't seen women in a very long time."

Katerini frowned - Autolycus clearly hadn't told her everything. "But why would someone want to steal the amethyst?" she asked. "And why this sudden worry about the guards? Why now?"

"Athena gave the amethyst to the city - it's the symbol of the Athenians' wisdom and civilization. Of course, this is a city-state whose number one entertainment is cock fighting, so it's not like it's a HIGH standard of civilization. But the stone's probably worth a big ransom." Autolycus sat back down, taking Katerini's hand in his. "And I didn't worry about the guards until I saw them this morning in town." Stroking the inside of her wrist, he looked into her eyes and said quietly, "I got a little...distracted once I got to Thebes."

"Is that how you got hurt? The guards?" she queried, gently touching his swollen eye. Autolycus turned to kiss her palm, not answering.

"Sweetheart, I'm going to have to lay low for a while." Running his fingers tenderly along the side of her face, he added, "I don't want to put you in any danger, so I'd better get going." He touched the silver crescent hanging around her neck. "Think of me?" He rose and moved swiftly to the door, grabbing his cloak as he left.

"Autolycus, wait! There must be something - I'm sure Hercules and Iolaus will figure something out!" Katerini cried out, running after the dark thief. "And you shouldn't be walking around yet - you're hurt! Please don't go!"

Autolycus turned to wave goodbye. "Sorry, Katy," he called out regretfully, then turned and walked away.

Eyes filled with tears, Katerini touched her necklace. "Goodbye," she whispered.

Chapter 18

Alcamene hummed tunelessly as she stood at the big worktable. "Dinner will be nice - just the kids, and us, and Kat's young man" she said to Jason as she stood cutting vegetables at the kitchen table. "Sounds good to me, love," Jason answered, as usual taking any excuse to pull Alcamene into his arms. She smiled and leaned back into his strong chest, tilting her head back to kiss him eagerly.

"Could you two get a room?" Iolaus and Hercules stood in the back doorway. Hercules looked down at Iolaus, shaking his head sadly. "Such animals! Such a bad example for impressionable young men such as ourselves!"

"You're just jealous because you don't have a beautiful, sexy wife like mine," Jason gloated, kissing a willing Alcamene again. The two younger men looked at each other, grinned and shrugged - he had a point.

"Okay, out of my kitchen you three, I have to finish dinner. Hercules, Iolaus, could you set the table for - let's see, Jason and I, and you kids, and Autolycus - six please, darlings. Jason, please go into the garden and cut me some peonies - they're the big pink ones by the fence. Come on, let's go!" Alcamene clapped her hands, and laughing the guys dispersed to perform their appointed tasks.

"Herc, you think he's going to show?" Iolaus asked as he set plates around the table.

"If he does, let's wait 'til after dinner to talk to him. I don't want to ruin Mother's evening, and Kat's mad enough at us already," Hercules answered. "Is it forks on the left? I can never remember."

Iolaus snickered and grabbed the forks from the hero. "Forks on the left, you goof." Hercules shoved his friend, laughing, and the two friends finished setting the table, pushing each other good-naturedly as they did so.

Katerini arrived soon after Hercules and Iolaus. She appeared at the back door also, alone, with an armful of wildflowers. Studiously avoiding Alcamene's eyes, Katerini asked, "How can I help?"

"You can put down those flowers and tell me if the reason that you've been crying has something to do with the reason Autolycus isn't with you." Alcamene responded matter-of-factly. Katerini looked up, met Alcamene's kind blue eyes and dissolved. The older woman put her arms around her sobbing friend and drew her out onto the back step.

Gently rocking the heartsick woman, Alcamene murmured softly "You're okay, you're okay," as she ran her fingers through Katerini's cropped red tresses. "What happened, honey?"

After a few moments, Katerini calmed under Alcamene's gentle touch. Haltingly, she told her friend about the thief's abrupt departure. "I believed him, but I know he didn't tell me everything - and then he just left." A tear slipped down her cheek.

"I'm sorry, honey. What can I do? If you don't want to stay, I know that the boys and Jason will understand." Alcamene offered.

"No, I'm okay," Katerini said softly.

"You think you're ready to go in and help me finish dinner, sweetheart?" Alcamene asked, holding Katerini's hand in hers.

"Sure. Thanks, Alcamene."

The women stood and returned to the kitchen. Katerini looked much more composed as they worked together to carry out the many dishes prepared for Alcamene's hungry boys. Whenever they passed one another Katerini felt a comforting touch on her arm.

"Hey, Kat!" Hercules spotted her first and strode into the kitchen to hug and kiss her. "Glad you could make it!" He picked up Katerini and swung her around, asking, "Where's your boyfriend?" His joking words contrasted with the close attention he paid to her answer.

Breathless from his exuberant greeting, Katerini managed to gasp out, "Autolycus had to go away for a while - he asked me to send his apologies." Iolaus strolled into the kitchen just in time to hear her last words.

"Really! That's a shame," he observed casually, biting into an apple. "I'm glad you came, anyway." Iolaus scanned her face carefully, looking for any sign of anger about that morning or the present state of Autolycus's face. Finding none, he risked a question. "Did he say where he was going?"

Alcamene shot a worried look at Katerini and spoke up. "You boys get out of here - we're trying to get dinner ready! Hercules, did you finish setting the table? And Iolaus, stop nibbling - you'll ruin your appetite!" she scolded. Iolaus stopped in mid-bite and raised his eyebrows, looking first at Hercules and then Katerini. All three of them burst into laughter at the thought. Alcamene shook her head, joining in the hilarity. "Go on, get out of here!"

The candles and the firelight cast a warm glow about the dining room, reflecting happily in the eyes and smiles of the family that gathered far too infrequently. Dark wood gleamed with constant loving care and combined with the soft muted draperies to make the room feel safe and comfortable. While an occasional shadow crossed Katerini's face, no one commented on the absent guest that caused her sadness.

As Alcamene passed the fig tart around the table and Jason poured more wine, Iolaus leaned back in his chair and asked Katerini, "So, why did Autolycus run, I mean leave so suddenly?" He tried to keep his tone light, but his curiosity wouldn't allow him to remain silent.

"Iolaus," Hercules began exasperatedly, reaching up to pull the blonde's chair back down onto the floor. "Not now!" Alcamene shot a quick look of concern at Kat, whose blue eyes suddenly brimmed with tears.

She whispered, "It's late, I should go..." and slipped out of the room before Alcamene could stop her.

"What?" he wondered aloud and looked around the table guiltily. Hercules rolled his eyes and retorted, "I told you, we can ask her tomorrow!"

"Ask what?" Alcamene queried quietly.

Somewhat sheepishly, Hercules looked over at his mother. Smiling despite himself, he squeezed her hand and answered, "Autolycus is mixed up in some kind of trouble in Athens, Mother - Iolaus saw the Athenian Guard looking for him in town. We're just trying to figure out what's up."

"Well, I trust Katerini's judgment - I'm sure it's all a mix-up. But someone should go to her, don't you think? Tell her that you'll help?" Alcamene looked over at her boys, and Herc and Iolaus instantly rose, moving to follow their friend out the door. Alcamene put her hand on her son's arm and shook her head silently at him as Iolaus dashed out of the room.

"Let him go to her, darling," she said, "One of you is enough."

Chapter 19

Iolaus stood on the back step for a moment, looking around the garden in the moonlight for Kat. As always his hunter instincts kicked in, noting the footprints leading away from the house and running back toward the enormous oak tree. Not that he needed tracks to find her - he knew better than anyone did where to look. The towering oak tree threw a long shadow, but the moonlight revealed the large uneven shape of the tree house that they had all used as refuge since childhood.

Built from scraps of wood over several summers, the fort had housed their dreams, their hopes and fears for as long as Iolaus could remember. After Anya died, he had hidden there for two days until Katerini and Hercules talked him into coming down. And when Hera killed Deianara and the kids, Hercules finally cried up there. The tree house provided a shelter from everything that could hurt them.

As he approached, moving silently across the dew-covered grass, Iolaus heard the unmistakable sound of sobs coming from above. Hurrying, he lightly swung up to the lowest branch, ignoring the steps nailed crookedly to the side of the tree. The moonlight spun his curls into a golden cloud around his head as he pulled himself up to the platform and swung his legs up over the side, cursing softly as the rough wood splintered and scraped his hands. He sat for a moment at the edge of the platform, rubbing the back of his neck as he tried to figure out what to say.

The dappled moonlight revealed Katerini's shaking back. She sat rolled into a compact ball, her face buried next to her left shoulder. Iolaus paused, uncertain how to approach her. His earlier optimism evaporated - clearly things between Katerini and Autolycus had progressed even further than he feared if she was this upset at his leaving. And when she found out that the guards wanted him for questioning...Iolaus felt the return of the lead weight he had been carrying around in place of a heart since he first saw Autolycus and Katerini kissing before her door.

"I'll kill him," he swore under his breath. "That bastard." He squared his shoulders and knelt behind her. Lightly stroking her gold-flecked auburn hair, he whispered softly, "Ah, Kat, what's wrong, love?"

Stiffening at his touch, Katerini struggled to regain her composure. "I'm fine," she choked out, purposefully steadying her breathing. "I just, well, I had a fair amount of wine, and...." She hiccuped, startling both of them. Iolaus instinctively reached out to brush her tears away then paused, fearful of her reaction. Katerini turned away, and Iolaus dropped his hand.

"You were right. I'm a horrible judge of character. He ran Iolaus. Even though I believed him when he told me that he didn't steal it, he ran." She laughed bitterly. "You must feel pretty smart right now."

"No, sweetheart." Iolaus choked out. He hesitantly reached out again, brushing away the traces of tears from her cheek. This time she didn't withdraw. "I just couldn't stand..." Iolaus didn't know what to do. He had always loved Katerini as a sister, but the past few days, watching her with Autolycus, he didn't know what he felt. Relationships with women had always been very simple - either they were real family, surrogate family or romances. But with Kat, the lines blurred. He had always reserved feelings this strong for romantic interests - actually, only Anya had inspired this depth of emotion. He did know that Kat needed him as a friend now, and he could sort out his feelings later. Maybe.

"Honey, come here," Iolaus pulled her into his arms and started rocking her gently. "Tell me what happened. What did that b... what did Autolycus say?"

Katerini relaxed into his embrace and leaned her head on his shoulder. She told him the same tale that she had told Alcamene. Breaking down at the end, she sobbed, "And he left before I could tell him that we'd find out the truth, that you and Hercules and I would help him."

The hunter continued rocking and stroking her hair, murmuring gentle endearments until she calmed. "Kat, I saw some guards in town today asking questions." She started in panic, looking up at him with wide eyes. "Don't worry, I told them I hadn't seen anyone that looked like their sketch today." He looked mildly embarrassed for a moment, then continued, "Something strange is going on. I need to find Autolycus. Do you have any idea..."

A board creaked above their heads, startling both of them. Iolaus froze at the sound. Pressing his lips to Katerini's ear, he whispered, "Someone's on the roof. Stay put." Frightened, she nodded wordlessly as Iolaus continued in a louder voice, "Hercules and I talked about it, and we've got a few questions of our own we'd like answered by the King of Thieves." As he spoke, the hunter moved to the edge of the platform, suddenly grabbed the edge of the roof and swung himself onto it. A loud "Ouch!" preceded sounds of a struggle, then the ominous creaking of the ceiling gave way to a crash as two figures tumbled to the platform.

"Let go of me, shorty!" one of the figures shouted as he broke free. The smaller man jumped at him and wrestled him to the floor. Finally Iolaus subdued the cloaked figure by sitting on his chest. Katerini cautiously crept over to Iolaus and his prisoner. Shaking her head, she looked down at the rueful face before her.

"Auto, what are you doing here?" she asked, pleasure mixing with anger as she stared at him with a stern expression. Looking over at Iolaus, she placed a hand on his arm and asked, "Io, can you let him up? He is hurt."

"Yeah, Iolaus, let him up - he can't answer questions with you on his chest," a deep voice said from behind them. Sighing, Iolaus clambered to his feet as Hercules climbed up into the tree house. Gingerly feeling his nose, Autolycus sat up and edged back until he was leaning on the wall. His dark brown eyes darted around the tree house, calculating his best exit. The thief began subtly moving his hand toward his boot. A big hand grabbed his wrist firmly while cool blue eyes met his. "I don't think so," the demi-god said softly, reaching down and removing the grappling hook from the thief's boot. "You need to explain a few things."

"What do you mean? What things?" Autolycus blustered, sneaking a glance at Katerini to gauge how much she'd told them. Katerini looked back at him, a neutral expression on her face. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"You may as well tell us, Autolycus," Iolaus chimed in reasonably. "You know we'll find out one way or another."

"He's right, you know," Hercules said. "I'd hate to have to turn you over to the guards if it's not necessary."

The dark thief assessed the serious faces before him. Sighing heavily, he allowed his shoulders to slump as he leaned his head back against the wall and closed his eyes. "Okay, okay, I'll tell you what happened." He looked apologetically over at Katerini, then closed his eyes again.

"You see, there was this girl..."

Chapter 20

"Tolly! Tolly, over here!" As he turned, a huge smile lit up the dark thief's face. Only one person could get away with that ridiculous nickname, and after all these years his heart still turned over at the sound. Autolycus quickened his pace as he crossed the courtyard to greet the slender brunette who stepped from the massive doorway.

"Lissa, my dear, you're as gorgeous as ever," he laughed as she threw her arms around him. "How are you, Liss? How long has it been?

"Too long, Tolly. Come on inside and I'll tell you what's new." Gently she cupped his cheek, running her thumb quickly along his jawbone, then quickly kissing him. "I missed you, baby." Before he could react, she grabbed his hand, grinned at him and pulled back into the mansion doorway. "The kitchen's this way."

With a practiced eye Autolycus took in the tapestries and carpets as the dark beauty led him down the wide hallway. Although slightly worn with use, the rare objects strewn on low tables and lush fabrics spoke to the thief of wealth handed down through generations. He noted Lissa's expensive dress - the deceptively simple design couldn't disguise the rich red fabric and perfect fit. The matching ribbon casually held her hair back in a low loose ponytail, revealing not only her sparkling hazel eyes but her lovely neck and shoulders to his interested gaze. "You seem to be doing well, Lissa." He waved his hand around, indicating the quietly elegant furnishings. "What's the scam?"

"No scam, Tolly. I live here," she answered lightly. "It's my husband's family home." Surreptitiously she watched the thief's reaction to her statement - a lot depended on the next few moments, and she couldn't risk blowing it.

"Husband," Autolycus paused, then dropped Lissa's hand. A wave of disappointment swept him. "That's...great. Congratulations."

"Thanks - that's part of why I sent for you. I wanted to tell you myself." Raising her heart-shaped face to his, she gazed into his eyes. "You ok with this, hon?"

"Who's the lucky guy?" Autolycus countered, evading her question as he glanced around the room again appraisingly. Clearly whomever she'd married could provide her with the life of luxury she'd always craved - the proceeds from the tapestries alone could have fed her home village for a week.

"Costa," Lissa replied, raising her chin a little in anticipation of his reaction. "You know, the chief magistrate."

Giving a long, low whistle, Autolycus cocked an eyebrow and looked at the brunette. "Wow, things sure have changed," he said, "that's sure not the side of the law you USED to be on. When did all this happen?"

"Well, that's kind of the other reason you're here. We met about a year ago. I, um, I..." Lissa studied the floor as she tried to figure out how to say it.

Autolycus started laughing. "Hohohoho! You got caught stealing something! Lissa, Lissa - you never should have left me, my dear - your skills in the area of larceny never matched your...other talents." He eyed her appreciatively. "I must admit, you haven't lost anything in THAT department. So, chief magistrate Costa caught little Lissa with her fingers in the till. I suppose you cried in court, and batted your eyes and convinced him that you'd never do anything so awful again, that the love of a good man could redeem you." The thief paused, puzzled, and then added, "Usually you can get out of it without marrying the guy, Liss - what went wrong?"

Lissa hesitated. "It's not exactly like that, Tolly. See, I stole the Amethyst of Athens." Autolycus whistled, impressed. "Unfortunately, my client got a little rough and refused to pay up. Costa found me outside," she waved her hand, "unconscious and pretty far gone. He brought me inside and took care of me, not knowing what I'd done. It took me a long time to get back to normal," she added, gently fingering her jaw. "We became...fond of each other."

"But I don't understand - I haven't heard anything about the theft. Usually that kind of thing gets around." His eyes narrowing, Autolycus asked, "Did he blackmail you, Liss?"

"No! He doesn't know, Tolly - I substituted a fake when I stole the stone. But the city elders want to examine the stone next week - something about some ritual thing every ten years, Athena, blah blah blah -Tolly, he's a good man and he doesn't deserve what they'll do when they find out the stone's a fake. And if he finds out I took the stone - I'm afraid it'll kill him." Lissa looked beseechingly at Autolycus, rubbing the fabric of his sleeve between her fingers nervously. "I thought maybe you could help."

"Help you. After the way you took off in Alexandria without so much as a goodbye? It took me two weeks to get out of that prison. Two VERY long weeks. Besides, what could I do? You don't even know where your old partner or the stone is..." Autolycus stared at her. "Let me get this straight. You want me to steal the FAKE? Risk my freedom for a fake, just to get you out of a jam?" Narrowing his eyes, he leaned forward and examined her face. "What's really going on here, Liss?"

Ducking her head to avoid his gaze, Lissa said, "How much risk could it be for The King of Thieves? You've been a busy boy since we split up, Tolly -your reputation precedes you. Unless you don't think you can hack it?" She peeked up through her eyelashes, hoping that an appeal to his vanity would work.

Autolycus answered impatiently, "Of course I can hack it, that's not the point. Why, I could steal that stone with my hands tied behind my back and a head cold. Why do you want this so much, Liss? I need to know." His dark eyes searched her face for a response.

"I care about him, Tolly. He's a good man and I owe him everything. He loves me very much - I can't betray him."

"Betray him again, you mean. So you love him?" he asked, hating himself but needing to hear her say it.

Looking up, she answered hoarsely, "Ah, Tolly - what do you think?"

Autolycus froze. Slowly, as if mesmerized, Lissa leaned forward. Afraid, Autolycus closed his eyes and steeled himself not to respond. However, instead of pressing her lips to his, Lissa softly began to nibble and lick the tender flesh behind his right ear. Despite himself, Autolycus let out a groan. Damn, she still knew how to drive him crazy. He willed himself not to move, but after seconds that seemed like eternity he swept the brunette into his arms, grabbing handfuls of her hair as he kissed her as if both their lives depended on it.

Chapter 21

The moon moved slowly across the sky, finally shining in through the makeshift window to illuminate the thief's face as he told his tale. The silvery rays lit his bruised face as he periodically glanced at Katerini to judge her reaction. The moonlight also spotlighted Hercules, sitting close enough to Autolycus to prevent any attempt at escape. The pale beams cast an otherworldly glow on the demigod, throwing his handsome features into sharp relief. A few scattered moonbeams struck Iolaus as well, lighting him just enough to reveal the grim expression on his face. Only Katerini remained hidden in shadow, expressionless and immobile, hardly more than a shadow herself.

'This happened before he met you, remember,' she repeated silently. 'Doesn't mean that he doesn't like you, it has nothing to do with you. Just listen and stay calm.' Despite her efforts, she felt her throat thicken with unshed tears. Maybe she cared more for the handsome thief than she had realized - she hadn't felt this...jealousy...since Iolaus had fallen for Niobe. Determined not to draw attention, Katerini clenched her jaw and slid farther into the shadows.

But as usual, she couldn't hide from Iolaus. The hunter unobtrusively slid closer to the unhappy girl, hoping that his presence would offer some comfort. He gently brushed his shoulder against hers as he looked over at the demigod and said sarcastically, "Is it me, or did that sound like a confession? I think we're done here." Iolaus put his hand up at Hercules and added, "And don't say I'm rushing things. He SAID he stole it - what more do you want?" He leaned against Katerini's arm companionably as he glared at the thief.

"Oh, great, I knew it, Curly's had it in for me since I got here. I don't know why I even bothered to try to explain," Autolycus retorted angrily as he started to rise. Hercules reached over to place a heavy hand on his shoulder.

"Sit down," Hercules ordered, "you're not going anywhere until we figure this out."

"Let go of me!"

"Sit down, you rotten thief."

"Iolaus, I'm warning you, knock it off."

"He started it."

"*I* started it!"

The men's voices rose in argument until a soft voice cut through the cacophony.

"Let him finish," Katerini said emotionlessly. The three men looked at her, then at each other. "I want to hear what happened."

Autolycus smiled gratefully at Katerini, who returned his smile with a slight softening of her expression. Iolaus looked daggers at his rival and braced his arm on the floor behind Katerini's back. Without thinking the redhead leaned back against the hunter's strong shoulder. Narrowing his eyes at the intimate gesture and clearing his throat, the thief resumed his tale. "Naturally a complex theft like this required brilliant planning..." Three pairs of eyes rolled.

***********************

"I'm telling you, daytime is crazy, Tolly. Too many people around and Costa keeps the rock in his office - there's no way to get to it without him seeing. He never leaves it unguarded," Lissa with her stood hands on hips, arguing with a determined King of Thieves.

"And I'm telling YOU, they'll never expect a daytime hit. You just get me access and I'll take care of the rest of it. Now, where exactly does he keep it?" Autolycus pulled Lissa to his side and leaned over the rough sketch he had made of Costa's office based on her descriptions. A simple enough floor plan, really - the only entrance to the third floor chamber a heavy oaken door flanked by two guards. Inside, a huge ornately carved wooden desk dominated the room. A few ornamental chairs lined the walls between the shelves where neatly stacked scrolls held the laws and traditions of Athens. Two small, high windows in the wall opposite the door offered some natural light. Only one way in and only one way out. Until now.

Lissa shifted her weight against Autolycus as she pointed at the drawing of the desk. "There's a small drawer hidden behind that carved owl on the left - you press its eyes and it slides open. That's where he keeps the safe box with the stone. But Tolly, I'm telling you, you'll never..."

Tired of her protestations, Autolycus turned his dark head to hers and silenced her with a kiss. Slowly drawing back, he smiled wickedly and murmured, "You were saying?" Lissa laughed softly and wordlessly ran her fingers along the sleeve of the thief's green tunic. "That's what I thought. Now, let's get our stories straight..."

Iolaus interrupted, "Come on Hercules, at this rate we'll be dead of old age before he finishes. It's late - can't we just turn him in and get some sleep?" His belligerence masked concern for Katerini - her unaccustomed silence worried him, and he didn't think hearing more about lover-boy's romantic exploits was going to help.

"For the last time, Iolaus, be quiet and let him finish. If you don't want to listen, go on home." Hercules glared at his friend with exasperation, and Iolaus theatrically placed with one hand over his mouth, his blue eyes lively with unspoken opinions. Katerini found herself yawning despite herself. Closing her eyes, she turned her head to rest it on Iolaus's shoulder. Glancing down affectionately at the tired girl, the hunter leaned back against the wall and pulled her closer. He looked over at Hercules and smiled slightly. Hercules' eyes crinkled and the corner of his mouth twitched as he casually held a lock of his hair to his nose and breathed deeply. Iolaus pressed his lips together to indicate that he wasn't amused and Hercules chuckled quietly.

Autolycus looked around plaintively. "Is anyone still interested in my story?" he asked. Hercules resumed his serious expression and answered, "Of course we are, Autolycus - get to the part where you take the stone."

Autolycus looked wounded. "Fine, if you don't want to hear the finer details..." Iolaus chimed in saying, "For Petrus sake, pal, finish the story so we can turn you over to the guards and get some sleep." They glared at each other, then Autolycus looked apologetically at Katerini. Really there was nothing he could say to her, not in front of these two. Best just to finish the story and hope she could understand. With an inaudible sigh he continued.

"Darling," Lissa purred, walking across the great hall to the end of the large dining table to where an imposing, slightly overweight man sat eating his dinner. He looked up, a warm smile lighting up his stern face at the sight of the vibrant woman. She moved behind him, sliding her hands from his shoulders to clasp around his neck as she kissed first the top of his head, then his ear.

"Lissa, my dear, I've been looking for you. You disappeared after breakfast. I wanted to ask your advice about the menu for the dinner tomorrow evening." Costa tilted his head back and kissed his beautiful young wife, reaching up and clasping her arms with his hands. Lissa toyed with the heavy medallion the distinguished man wore as his seal office.

"Sorry, Costa, I went down to the market to have a look around. And guess who I stumbled across? My cousin Tolly! We haven't seen each other since we were children. If it's all right with you, I told him he could stay with us for a few days so that we could catch up. Is it? All right, I mean?" Lissa moved to perch on the arm of his chair, running her fingers through his close cropped silver curls as she smiled at him. Costa slipped his arm around her waist and squeezed, returning her smile.

"Of course he's welcome. Invite him for as long as you'd like. Where is he now? I'd like to meet him." The magistrate looked down to the end of the dining room, noticing for the first time the tall figure leaning against the doorjamb. "Tolly? Welcome!"

Autolycus straightened and walked over to the couple. "Hello, sir - thanks so much for your hospitality. Lissa told me that you wouldn't mind, but if it's any trouble at all I can stay..."

"Nonsense, son - you're family, of course you're staying with us. Lissa, have Phoebe put him in the big room at the back at the house - Tolly, you'll like it, it's very quiet." Costa rose, giving his wife a final hug and shaking Autolycus' hand. "I must return to my offices, but I'll see you two tonight." The magistrate departed, leaving Lissa and Autolycus alone.

Lissa moved to kiss the handsome thief, whispering, "We did it!" Autolycus turned his cheek to her seeking lips, saying loudly, "I know, it'll be great to catch up, cousin!" "Ix-nay on the oating-lay, Liss - remember the servants." He stepped back and playfully punched her in the arm. "Come on, show me around this dump!" Looking meaningfully at her, he asked, "I want to see everything, so I can describe it to mother."

Lissa nodded her understanding. "Let's start on the top floor and work our way down. Come on." She linked her arm with his and whispered, "There are a few dark corners up there, Tolly - careful you don't get lost."

Autolycus sighed with a mixture of exasperation and amusement. "You're incorrigible, Cousin!"

Chapter 22

Drifting in and out, Katerini heard snatches of the King of Thieves' story. How he'd spent the next few days casing the house and putting Costa at ease. How he'd arranged for a street kid to break one of the windows in Costa's office the third night, checking out the desk first hand when he and Costa ran to see if there had been a break in. Iolaus tightened his arm around Katerini as Autolycus spoke of the hours he and his old love spent together planning the robbery. She stirred softly as the hunter rested his head on hers, his golden curls tangling with her tousled red hair. Although she feigned sleep, Iolaus felt the dampness of her cheek against his neck and reached up to surreptitiously stroke her hair.

Hercules frowned. "If you two were getting along so well, what happened? Why didn't you take her with you when you left with the stone?" He looked questioningly at the dark thief, who ran his hand through his hair.

"That's just it, Hercules - I didn't leave with the stone. When I finally got in, it was gone." Autolycus looked disgusted at the memory. "Basically she played me like a lyre. I walked into the office while Costa was dictating a decision to his clerk. By that time he had gotten used to me wandering in and out - I'd watched him preside over court several times, pretending I was fascinated by the law." The thief absently stroked his mustache, wincing at the accidental contact with his bruised nose.

"I strolled in and sat down at the desk, casually leaning over by the owl. When Costa turned his back, I quickly pressed the owl's eyes and slipped the safe box onto the desk. For someone of my skills the lock was no challenge, and I had it open in seconds. I reached in to grab the stone but the box was empty, and that's when all Tartarus broke loose. Costa spun on his heel and shouted, "Guards! Seize him! Lissa ran into the room crying and pointing at me. She kept saying 'He made me do it! He forced me to tell him where you kept the stone!'

Naturally, I didn't want to wait around while he sorted out the truth - Lissa always could lie with the best of them - so I jumped up on the desk, grabbed the chandelier and swung up to the window. It was a big drop, but I'd had the foresight to leave a wagon full of hay in the alleyway, so I didn't get hurt."

"So you bolted without the stone OR the girl?" Hercules looked intently at Autolycus, who defiantly stared back. Something in his expression convinced the demi-god and he said, "Well, we'd better get inside and get some sleep if we're going to find that stone tomorrow. Come on, Iolaus - let's get these two settled in Mother's guestrooms.

Iolaus made a small sound of disgust. "Barn for us again?" He didn't think they'd had the whole story, but he trusted Hercules - if he thought the thief was telling the truth, Iolaus could play along for a while.

Hercules smiled. "You know you love the barn. Need any help with Kat?" He grinned wickedly. Before Iolaus could respond, the redhead stirred.

"I'm awake, I'm awake," Katerini protested groggily, rubbing the heel of her hand across her eyes as she sat up. "What's the verdict?" She glanced over at Autolycus, who smiled back tentatively.

"Not guilty?" he quipped, slowly rising to his feet.

Hercules slid to the edge of the platform and climbed down the ladder to the ground, muttering about stiff knees. Autolycus reached out a hand to pull Katerini to her feet, and before Iolaus could protest she accepted it, stumbling slightly as the dark thief helped her up. Iolaus bounded to his feet and glared at the taller man as he said, "You next, Kat - Herc'll spot for you." As the sleepy woman began her descent, Iolaus swept his arm toward the ladder. "After you, King," he said sarcastically.

Autolycus sneered at the blond, responding, "Why, thank you, Iolaus - pearls before swine." He quickly slipped out of the annoyed hunter's reach, climbing down and trotting toward the house. Iolaus cursed, grabbed the lowest tree branch and swung to the ground, following the others.

Hercules ushered everyone back into Alcamene's kitchen, signaling for quiet. "Kat, you take my old room. Follow me, Autolycus - you're in the guest room."

Katerini yawned and nodded. She walked across the kitchen to the doorway, then ran back to the demi-god and kissed his cheek. He smiled warmly at her and rubbed her head affectionately. "Good night, little one - holler if you need anything." She nodded and walked out of the room, ignoring the other two men.

Hercules shook his head, then gestured to Autolycus. "Let's go, Autolycus. And don't get any ideas - you're right next to Mother and Jason, and believe me she's a VERY light sleeper." They left Iolaus pouring a glass of lemonade. He waited until he could hear the two men making up the bed, then padded silently down the hall to Katerini's room.

As he stood in the doorway, he smiled nostalgically. Alcamene had changed little since she'd put the second bed in for her son's best friend - the walls were covered with childish drawings while the built-in shelves below the windows remained filled with slingshots, rudely carved animals and other boyish toys. He'd spent a lot of happy hours here. The sight of Katerini making the bed reminded him of the many bets they had won and lost. Loser had to do the winner's chores while the winner gloated until their positions reversed by the next foolish wager.

"What do you want?" she asked without turning, her tired voice belying the harshness of her words. Iolaus walked to her side and held out the lemonade.

"Thought you might be thirsty," he commented, pretending not to notice that her eyes were still red.

"Thanks," she replied, "you want to sit down?"

Heartened by the invitation, he sank onto the bed. Katerini hesitated then sat opposite him on the second bunk. Not quite meeting his eyes, she asked casually, "So, what do you think? Do you believe him?" She peeked up at her best friend cautiously.

Iolaus paused, not sure how to respond. He reached over and took Katerini's chin in his hand, intending to tell her that he thought there were some gaps but that the thief was probably telling the truth. Which was pretty close to accurate.

As he gently forced her eyes to his, the soft glow of the candle lit her face and reflected in her sparkling blue eyes. Iolaus lost his way, mesmerized by a face at once beloved and unfamiliar. They stared at each other for a long moment, then Katerini moved to go, her color rising. Iolaus caught her hand and pulled her gently into his lap. "Not so fast, love," he murmured softly into her neck. He nuzzled the soft skin where her shoulder began, then began sweetly kissing his way up the line of her neck to her chin.

Heart pounding, Katerini drew a ragged breath but didn't show any other reaction to his caresses. Reaching for her, he molded his hand to the curve of her face and drew her to him, kissing her lightly on the lips. Again her eyes caught him, this time as they slowly closed at his touch. He kissed her again with more heat, and this time she responded as she had that morning at the river.

Slow, soft, sweet embrace - the two gently explored each other with hungry lips and hands. The golden hunter pulled Katerini back on top of him, wrapping his arms around her as he whispered endearments in her willing ear. She snuggled closer, slipping her fingers through those tempting curls as she toyed with his medallion. They lay quietly together, holding each other and occasionally kissing, gradually lulling each other to sleep as the emotional exhaustion of the day took over. Soon the sound of their even breathing filled the room as they slept in each other's arms.

Hercules glanced in to check on Katerini, blinking in surprise at the sight of his two friends entwined on his childhood bed. He quickly covered his mouth to stifle the snort of laughter when he noticed that Iolaus moved in his sleep to bury his face in Katerini's hair. Shaking his head, the hero started to walk to the barn, then paused and turned back down the hall.

Throwing open the door to the guestroom, he shook his head in resignation at the sight of Autolycus with one leg out the window. "Fine. We'll do it your way," he sighed, pulling the protesting thief back into the room. "Take your pants off." The dark man's eyes widened in surprise and a little fear. Hercules made an impatient sound and said, "Don't flatter yourself - it's just insurance. Take them off, Autolycus." The dark man complied reluctantly, tossing the soft leather pants to the demi-god while pulling his tunic down. Hercules laughed at the vain attempt at modesty as he threw the pants into the hallway and seated himself on the floor before the door. "Better get some sleep, Autolycus - we've got a long day ahead of us tomorrow."

The King of Thieves edged over to the bed, his eyes never leaving the now-sleeping demi-god as he pulled up the blankets. Despite himself a small smile of gratitude drifted across his face as Autolycus fell asleep.

Chapter 23

"Cold," Iolaus muttered, turning over and reaching for the missing blanket. Unable to find it, he groggily opened his eyes and asked, "Kat?" She sat on the bed opposite, wrapped in the blanket and watching him. Smiling seductively, Iolaus stretched over and toyed with her big toe. "Hey, why you so far away, Kat? C'mere and warm me up." He tilted his head flirtatiously and batted his gorgeous eyes at her, eliciting a reluctant smile. "C'mon back to bed, sweetheart."

Katerini pulled the blanket tighter around her. "I don't know if that's such a good idea, Io." She paused, searching for the right words. "Everything's all confused. I don't know what I'm feeling, and you're not helping." She shook her head, exasperated with herself. "That's not what I meant, Io - I meant that you're mixing me up." How could she explain this to anyone, even her best friend, when she couldn't figure it out herself?

She'd loved Iolaus her whole life, but Iolaus had never looked at her that way, and despite their closeness had never realized how she felt. After his marriage to Anya, Katerini knew that she could never have him so she buried her feelings. Time and the string of women in his life had helped her to add protective layers over her heart until she had nearly convinced herself that his friendship was enough. And he was a tremendous, loyal and constant friend. Only occasionally, in the darkest hours of the night, did she acknowledge the hole in her life. And then she'd walk to the river and remember. She'd seen first hand what love could do, and she didn't dare risk it.

Then Autolycus had arrived, Iolaus started acting crazy, Hercules got her mixed up with his crazy theories - she didn't know what she thought or felt.

And last night - last night she'd been hurt and sad and lonesome and had turned to her best friend for comfort. But things had shifted, and she didn't know why. Katerini couldn't hope that last night meant anything to Iolaus. She did know that her heart would break if she became just another the string of casual conquests that were as natural to Iolaus as breathing.

The bright smile on the hunter's face dimmed as he watched Katerini struggle to explain herself. Oh gods, she really did love Autolycus. Last night had been a fluke, and she didn't want to hurt him. He cursed his impulsiveness - he should have known better, she knew him too well and she didn't love him.

He pinched her toe and lightly remarked, "Well, if you won't give me back my blanket I guess I'd better get up." He swung his feet to the floor and moved to the door, glancing back with a bittersweet smile. "Want some breakfast?"

"Sure," Katerini answered, returning his smile with one of her own. "I'll be out in a minute."

She listened as Iolaus padded to the kitchen, then wrapping the blanket around her shoulders she slipped down the hall to the guestroom. Rapping gently on the door, she whispered, "You awake?"

Hercules started and jumped to his feet, shaking the sleep from his eyes. Opening the door, he leaned against the frame and yawned sleepily down at a startled Katerini. "Let me guess - you're not looking for me," he smiled, reaching out and ruffling her already tousled hair. "Come on in - I think he wants to talk to you." As she ducked under his arm, he asked innocently, "Sleep okay?"

Katerini didn't react, but the bright red of her neck told the demi-god that he'd hit home. His smile widened as he added, "I'll be in the kitchen with Iolaus when you're through." He closed the door and strolled down the hall, whistling.

Autolycus felt someone sit at the far end of the bed. Opening his eyes, he saw Kat's serious blue eyes watching him. "Morning?" he offered tentatively.

"Morning yourself, Auto," she replied.

"Look, Katy, about Athens," he began, then paused as she stood and walked to the window. The sheer curtains refracted the sunlight, making her skin appear translucent as it lit her hair on fire. The dark thief caught his breath. "Wow," he muttered. Swinging his feet to the floor, Autolycus started to rise when a breeze reminded him that Hercules had his pants. Blushing, he sank back and pulled the blanket over himself. Katerini pretended not to notice, but Autolycus noted the way she stifled a giggle and smiled.

"Katy, please, look at me," he asked. She turned and met his warm brown eyes. Hesitantly she took his outstretched hand and moved across the polished floor to sit on the edge of the soft mattress. Still holding her hand, he gazed at her. "Sweetheart, I need to tell you something about Athens." In a soft, vulnerable voice that she hadn't heard before, he continued, "We used to be together, Lissa and me, but it was a long time ago. It's been over for years, Katy - I just didn't want to admit it until last week when she sold me out." His eyes nearly black with emotion, he whispered, "Katy, when she betrayed me, the only thing I felt was - recognition. Part of me knew she hadn't changed, that I'd carried a torch for a fantasy. I just felt, I don't know, empty." He looked down at Katerini's bloodless fingers and eased his grip, laughing harshly.

Katerini continued to hold the thief's hand and his gaze. Slowly she squeezed his hand as she stared into his eyes. After several moments of wordless regard, she brushed an errant lock of hair from his forehead. "You didn't owe me anything, you know. That's all before I knew you. Not that I know you that well...I mean, I sort of know you, but..." she fell silent again as Autolycus smiled slightly.

"I just wanted you to know how it was with Lissa and me, that's all. And I'm sorry I just left like that - I heard you crying, and that's the last thing I wanted." He paused. "I'm glad Iolaus was there for you - you deserve someone who can take care of you, treasure you." Swallowing, he rubbed the back of her hand with his thumb. "He really cares about you, you know." Intently he watched her reaction.

Sighing heavily, she asked, "Does he?" Before the thief could answer, she smiled and rose to her feet. "Let's go get some breakfast. You can wrap up in that blanket until Hercules gives back your pants."

Chapter 24

Alcamene and Jason waved goodbye as the foursome set off for Athens. "Sweetheart, do you think Kat should go with them?" Jason asked, kissing Alcamene gently on the forehead. The sweet smell of the honeysuckle vine that framed the doorway drifted across the yard as the soft cooing of lovebirds filled the air. The morning sun had already warmed the garden so that a small lizard ventured onto the flagstones to sun itself, then scooted back into the shadows as three pairs of boots and a pair of slippers hurried down the path.

"Do you think they could have stopped her?" Alcamene countered as she looked lovingly up at her husband. "You heard them arguing at breakfast - she out-talked all of them, even Iolaus." She reached behind Jason to pull a dead flower from a rose bush, then kissed his chin. "Come inside and help me with the dishes?"

The road to Athens stretched before the quartet, winding through rolling hills dotted with sheep and cows. As the morning wore on, the sun beat down mercilessly and the travelers' tempers shortened along with their shadows. Their journey took them through pastureland, with few trees to offer relief from the heat until they reached the sea.

Iolaus marched in front of the group, his sword and scabbard balanced across his shoulders. Never one to hide his feelings, the hunter signaled his displeasure by the tension in his back and shoulders. "Bad idea. Very, very, very bad idea," he muttered occasionally, just loud enough for the others to hear.

In a rare instance of agreement, he and Autolycus had argued vehemently that Katerini should wait for their return. 'Too dangerous,' they pled, 'too slow.' How she'd managed to wear them down eluded both of the men, but they knew they didn't like it. As a sort of show of solidarity, Autolycus strode a few steps behind the shorter man, his shoulders and back rigid as well. Neither man could bring himself to talk to the other - their feelings for Katerini divided them as surely as they brought them together.

Hercules had reservations too, but knowing how stubborn Katerini could be he convinced himself that if she traveled with them he could keep her out of harm's way. He glanced down at the determined redhead, trotting occasionally to keep up with his long stride. Her fair skin flushed with a combination of exertion and sun, she looked very much like the tag-a-long teenager that had followed the demi-god and Iolaus everywhere when they came home on vacations from the academy. "Kat, slow down. I don't want to have to carry you, kiddo. And you'd better put that hat on - I think your nose is getting burnt." He smiled and continued, "What do you think we should do about those two?" gesturing toward the silent figures ahead of them.

"How would I know?" she replied with some asperity. "Why would you ask me? There's nothing between us, no reason why I'd know any more than you would!" She glared up at Hercules, who raised an eyebrow and looked down at her quizzically. Embarrassed, she ducked her head for a moment then returned his gaze. "Sorry, Herc," she said a trifle more calmly. "You meant how do we get them to stop sulking, right?"

"It's okay, Kat - those two are a lot to take." He reached over and took the straw hat from her fingers, placing it squarely on her head. "Don't want you sunburned, chum." The tall man smiled at Katerini, his kind blue eyes washing her with affection. Slowing his pace imperceptibly, Hercules let Iolaus and Autolycus get farther ahead of them. He weighed his words carefully, not wanting to wind Katerini up again. "Hey, Kat - have you and Iolaus...talked at all? I mean, since we...um..."

"Since you broke into my house?" Her dimples gave the lie to her harsh words, as did the playful punch in the arm she delivered to the demigod. "Not really. He's been so strange, Herc - all, I don't know, first argumentative and then quiet, and then last night...." Katerini's face went scarlet as she realized what she'd said. She ducked her head and started walking more quickly.

Hercules stopped in his tracks and grabbed her arm, turning his mortified friend toward him. Unshed tears refracted the sunlight, making her blue eyes into twin pools. "Hey, none of that," he said, "come on, let's take a break for a minute." Wrapping a comforting arm around Katerini, the demigod pulled her to a flat rock at the edge of the road.

"All I do lately is cry," the unhappy redhead sniffed, disgusted. Wiping her eyes with the back of her hand, she pushed the wide-brimmed straw hat back on her head. The sun peeked through the tiny holes in the woven brim, framing her face with light. Her freckles danced across her nose. Hercules paused, arrested by the charming picture she made.

"What's making you so upset, Kat? Is it Autolycus?" Hercules studied her face. He didn't know her as well as Iolaus, but he didn't think this seemed right - she didn't bestow her affections lightly and she'd only met the thief - gods, had it only been three days before?

"I don't know Herc - I like him, I really do. He's sweet and attractive..." Katerini's voice trailed off.

"But...." Hercules prompted her, eliciting a half-giggle, half-sob.

"But..." Katerini looked beseechingly up at the demi-god. His eyes widened slightly as he read the truth in her eyes.

"But you love Iolaus," he whispered.

Katerini flushed crimson as a quick denial rose to her lips, but the sympathy and pain on Hercules' face melted her defenses. The color drained from her face as she nodded assent, her blue eyes overflowing with hot tears as she bent her head, shoulders shaking with emotion.

"Ah, Kat, does he know? Does Autolycus know?" Shaking her head wordlessly, Katerini wiped her eyes with the heels of her hands and looked imploringly at her friend. Seeing the misery on her face Hercules pulled her into his arms. Rocking her like one of his children, he kissed the top of her head and murmured, "It's okay, Kat, it's okay. We'll figure it out."

"I know, I know - tell the truth, follow my heart, take a chance." Taking a deep breath, Katerini pulled back and smiled tremulously. "We'd better get going - they've probably killed each other by now.

Chapter 25

The road to Athens became more and more crowded with people as they got closer to the city. Iolaus dropped back to walk with Hercules. Katerini followed a bit behind while Autolycus maintained the lead.

The two heroes continued moving in companionable silence for a few minutes, then Iolaus spoke in an undertone. "You notice the soldiers?" he asked.

"Yes," Hercules answered quietly. "Looks like they're preparing for a war." Worry mixed with anticipation on Iolaus' face. Tilting his head, Iolaus shot Hercules a sidelong look.

"You think this has something to do with the stone," he stated. Hercules nodded, then looked around carefully to make sure that no one had noticed them. Iolaus moved closer, keeping his voice low and his face neutral as he asked, "So what do we do now?"

"I guess we try to get to Costa, find out what's going on. Make sense to you?" The demi-god lowered his voice even further and added, "We need to keep Autolycus busy while we talk to Costa - any ideas?"

Iolaus sighed. "Yeah - we probably should leave him with Kat. I'll tell him he's protecting her while you tell her she's guarding him. That should keep them out of trouble for a bit." His hand moving to rub his stomach, a grin split his handsome face. "Don't suppose we can get some lunch first?"

The demi-god laughed, "Not a bad idea, buddy. We can see what the local gossip is." Turning back to Katerini, he asked, "You ready to start checking out the lay of the land, Kat?"

Breathing slightly harder than normal with exertion, Katerini flashed him a brilliant smile. "Do we get to go incognito?"

Iolaus snorted. "Yeah, no one will recognize Hercules. No one ever does." Hercules shot him a withering look as Katerini joined in his laughter. Autolycus looked back at the redhead and the blond, shared amusement making the twin pairs of blue eyes crinkle. His smile didn't reach his eyes as he slowed his pace to rejoin the group.

"What do you think, Auto? Lunch?" Katerini smiled at him, her eyes lingering on his as she waited for his response.

"Great idea, Katy - I'm starving." The dark thief unconsciously mimicked the hunter's gesture as he ran his fingers over his stomach. "There's a tavern over there - food's pretty passable. Will that do?"

"It's settled, then." Katerini turned to Hercules. "You and Iolaus should go in together - sort of deflect attention from Auto. We'll follow you in a few minutes." Hercules opened his mouth to protest, then realized that she'd proposed the same plan as Iolaus, and he laughed and agreed.

The tavern looked more or less like every tavern Hercules and Iolaus had ever seen - dark and smoky, slightly dodgy clientele, all the elements that Iolaus loved. On the right, a rough-hewn bar stretched the length of the room, an equally rough-hewn bartender behind it. Three men stoically threw knives at the target in the back, while a pretty but slightly hard looking serving girl moved quickly from table to table to keep the tough looking crowd filled with food and drink. Hercules and Iolaus paused in the doorway to give their eyes a chance to adjust to the dim interior.

The bright sunlight behind them threw their faces into shadow, but the familiar outline of the heroes brought a smile to the serving girl's face. "Hercules, Iolaus! Come in, sit, sit!" she said, grasping their arms and pulling them forward. Iolaus looked up at his friend with amusement, mouthing the word 'incognito' as they followed the attractive brunette to a central table. Hercules smiled politely at the serving girl as he playfully punched his partner in the arm without looking at him. The friends ordered lunch and flagons of ale, talking quietly together as they casually assessed the room.

Autolycus and Katerini slipped in unnoticed behind their friends, crossing to seat themselves at a table near the back. Autolycus sat slumped in his chair, resting his head on his hand to help disguise himself. Katerini had pulled her hat low on her head to cover her bright hair. They studiously ignored the two handsome men seated in the center of the room. Autolycus couldn't resist moving his chair closer to Katerini's, catching Iolaus' quick glare out of the corner of his eye as he did. His lips twitched in a self-satisfied smile.

Suddenly the door to the tavern flew open. Silence fell over the room as gray clad soldiers filled the doorway, spilling into the tavern. "Where is he?" the leader, a brutal looking man, demanded loudly, addressing the room at large. "Tell us where that thief is or we start breaking heads."

Hercules rose to his feet, Iolaus right behind him, as Autolycus sank lower in his chair and Katerini shifted to hide him.

"Easy, friend - no need to get carried away, is there? What makes you think the thief is here?" Hercules looked calmly at the threatening men, watchful for the inevitable attack. Iolaus moved a step to the right to better protect both Hercules' back and the servant girl.

"This is none of your concern, Hercules. These lowlifes," the soldier gestured disgustedly at the tavern denizens, "know where Autolycus is, I'd bet my pension on it. We just have to convince them it's in their best interest to share the information." The leader stepped forward, tapping his club into his right hand as he glared at Hercules and Iolaus.

Katerini jumped to her feet, starting to move to her friends when Autolycus grabbed her and pushed her behind the bar. "No you don't," he warned, holding her by the shoulder as he grimly watched the men argue.

"We've got to help them!" the woman argued, struggling to get around the dark thief. She wiggled and pushed until he locked her in his arms, smiling down at her angry face. "Let me go!"

"Oh yeah, like I want to hear it from those two if you get hurt. No dice, pretty lady - you can fight all you want, but you're staying right here." Looking down into her blue eyes, he tightened his grip, saying softly, "Come on, they'll handle it - it's what they do." She stopped struggling and nodded curtly. Autolycus quickly kissed the tip of her nose, then looked back over at Hercules and Iolaus, weighing his options. "I'm going to regret this," he sighed, stepping out in front of one of the soldiers. "Care to dance?"

Shaking his head, Hercules looked at Iolaus. "Incognito," he said sarcastically, quickly throwing up an arm to deflect the blow from the leader. Two soldiers leapt at Hercules from opposite sides. Hercules grabbed the man on his left by the arm, swinging him at shoulder level and knocking the second man across the room. "Duck, Iolaus," he shouted, continuing to swing the man around and knocking three more soldiers up against the bar.

Iolaus dropped to the floor and rolled away from Hercules, popping up in the face of two soldiers. "Hi guys!" he chirped, drawing back his fists and popping them in the nose. The two men shook their heads and stared down at the hero, looming menacingly at him. "Hmm, this isn't good," the scrappy blond mused, dropping back to the floor as both soldiers swung at him. Their fists connected with each other's jaws, each knocking the other senseless. Iolaus giggled as he turned to check on Hercules. "Hey Herc, behind you," he shouted, moving to the end of the bar as a third soldier moved toward him.

Without turning, the demi-god kicked straight back, catching a particularly large assailant right in the family jewels. "Thanks, Iolaus," he called back, turning to smash his fist into the face of the soldier doubled over behind him. "Need any help?"

"Got it under control, Herc - thanks!" Iolaus leaped up on the bar, turning to donkey-kick the soldier on the other side. A second soldier appeared from nowhere thrusting a sword toward the hunter. Iolaus rolled sideways to avoid the attack, grabbing a tankard as he did so. He bounced to his feet, throwing the ale into his attacker's face as he kicked the sword from the soldier's hand.

Glancing down, he paused, startled as he spied worried blue eyes looking up at him. Straightening, he said, "Kat?" Suddenly two sets of hands grabbed the hunter from behind, pulling him to the floor. One soldier held the struggling hero as the second punched him repeatedly in the face and gut. A trickle of blood ran from Iolaus' nose as his head snapped back from the blows. Flinging his head forward, the hunter slammed his head into his captor's face and smiled weakly at the sound of a nose breaking.

"That'll cost you, curly," the soldier growled, pulling a knife and placing it next to the battered hunter's ear. "Where's the thief, little man? Talk." Iolaus looked blearily at the brute, his head wobbling as sweat and blood dripped off his nose. Spotting Katerini crouched atop the bar with a bottle in her hand, his eyes widened and he struggled to distract the man.

"Not unless...you buy me...dinner first," he gasped. The soldier smashed his fist across the hunter's jaw, then drew the knife deliberately down his face. Iolaus gritted his teeth against the pain as a red line followed the knife's course down his cheek.

"Your ear's next, wise guy," the man threatened. A look of surprise crossed his face as Katerini smashed the full bottle down on his head, and he sank uncomprehending to the floor. Scrambling frantically to the floor, Katerini knelt by the fallen hunter. Iolaus grinned weakly at her, then a look of anger crossed his face and he forced himself to his feet as he pushed the startled woman behind him.

"You guys just never give up, do you?" he asked, crouching slightly as another soldier joined Broken Nose and moved toward Iolaus, knives at the ready.

Hercules exchanged a rapid series of punches with the leader of the squadron, then grabbed his arm and, turning, used the momentum of one of his own blows to flip the man over his shoulder onto the floor. Grabbing the man's tunic, the demi-god pulled him up and hissed, "Next time, ask nicely," before knocking him out with one final blow. Turning to survey the room, he saw Autolycus deliver a knockout blow to a soldier, shaking his fist and cursing as his opponent hit the floor.

Only then did he see the two soldiers cornering Iolaus and Katerini. Striding across the room, Hercules grabbed the closest soldier and thumped him on the head, then threw him across the tavern and through the wall. Broken Nose slashed at the hunter as he lunged forward. Iolaus threw his arms up and bounced back on his toes, but the knife slipped up under his vest and he gasped in pain as the blade gouged his side. Hercules moved steadily forward, placing a heavy hand on the soldier's shoulder.

"Leave...him...alone," he said steely tones. Distracted, the soldier never saw Iolaus' blow coming as the hunter smashed his already broken face.

The soldier screamed in agony and slumped to the floor as Iolaus told him, "That's for 'wise guy.'" Turning to his partner, the hunter grimaced in pain and fell forward into Hercules' arms.

Alarmed, Hercules caught Iolaus and looked down at him. "I thought you had this under control," he said as he shouldered his way through the main room to the stairs, Katerini trotting close behind. Things had rapidly returned to normal in the tavern, with only the slumped bodies of the soldiers remaining as evidence that a fight had happened.

"Did. Until those five guys grabbed me," the injured man answered, holding his side awkwardly. "Hey, put me down - I can walk fine." Despite his brave words, Iolaus didn't struggle when Hercules ignored his request and kept walking across the bar and ascended the stairs.

"Iolaus, it was two guys, not five - where does it hurt?" Hercules asked as he pushed through the first door and lay his burden on the bed. "Io! Oh, sweetheart, it's my fault - if I hadn't - Hercules, let me..." she grabbed the demi-god's arm, trying to see Iolaus' face. Autolycus entered the room, quiet for once as he watched to see the extent of Iolaus' injuries. Katerini shoved Hercules out of the way and quickly pulled the injured man's vest aside, gently moving his hand to reveal a deep wound under his arm.

"Ow," the hunter said, smiling shakily up at the worried woman. "Easy, Kat, that hurt."

Katerini ripped a big piece of cloth from the bottom of her skirt, folded it into a compress and pressed it against the wound to stop the bleeding. "Here, hold that," she directed Hercules, "keep pressing on it until the bleeding stops." Looking back to the fallen hunter, Katerini forced a cheerful smile onto her face as she brushed his matted hair out of his face. "You're a mess, bud," she said, ripping another piece of fabric from her skirt and trying to wipe the blood, dirt and sweat from his handsome face.

Wincing, Iolaus caught her hand and held it, asking, "Um, Kat, could you hold off on that? I feel kind of...funny..." His eyelids fluttered and his head sagged as he slipped from consciousness.

"Auto - go get some water. Herc, go find a healer. Now!" Katerini barked out orders, sounding like a general. Or Alcamene. The two men swiftly obeyed, Autolycus returning almost immediately with a bucket of water. Katerini held the blood-soaked bandage against the gash in the hunter's side, struggling not to panic when he didn't wake after a few moments. Autolycus placed a comforting hand on her shoulder and said, "I'll go help Hercules."

Nodding, Katerini remained seated on the bed, her eyes glued to Iolaus' ashen face as Autolycus lightly touched her hair and left the room. As he left the inn and looked down the street Autolycus noticed a dark-haired woman moving away from the tavern stealthily. "Oh no you don't, Liss" he thought grimly as he followed her down a dim alley. Puzzled, he stroked his mustache as he realized her destination. "Why Ares' temple?"

As he approached the tavern, Hercules saw the thief disappear around the corner. His face darkened as he turned to the elderly woman at his side. He pointed at the inn and said, "He's at the top of the stairs, first door - our friend Kat is with him, Helena. Please, see to him." Hercules pressed her hand before darting down the alley after the thief.

Chapter 26

The severely carved figure of the god of war provided the only relief on the gray stone façade of the temple. Although the building did not match the temple to Athena in size or grandeur, it had its own stern beauty. The perfect proportions of the structure showed the slight regard the object of worship had for his supplicants - every angle, every line conspired to make humans who entered there feel small, meaningless. Lissa hesitated for a moment on the broad, shallow steps before moving swiftly through the imposing bronze door.

Glancing quickly around her, Lissa spied another visitor across the cavernous chamber. Costa stood with his feet spread apart and his hands clasped behind his back before the fierce statue of the God of War. "Oh great Ares, I come to you on behalf of the people of Athens. We beseech you, help us avenge the dishonor brought on us by our enemies the Spartans. They have stolen the great Amethyst of Athens given to us by your sister Athena. She has turned her back on us in anger, lord Ares, and we need your help to win back her favor by taking back our treasure that was stolen from us. Help us defeat our enemies, great lord."

The gray-haired man bowed low before the statue, then backed away slowly. Lissa ducked behind a pillar to escape his sight. Her pretty forehead furrowed as she thought about her next move. Clearly she couldn't let this go on - psychopathic warlord or no psychopathic warlord, no way was she helping to start a war between Athens and Sparta. Not that she was above it - she just didn't see the profit in this one. A big, beautiful jewel like that, hidden away - seemed like there might be a ransom for whoever stole it back. Peace AND a reward - seemed like a good deal to her.

The interior of the temple was more ornate than the exterior. Friezes depicting great battles of history ran along the ceiling and floor, the detail evoking the glory and horror of war exquisitely. As Lissa looked around, she noticed the hundreds of swords and shields hanging everywhere. Every conceivable style, size and design covered the stone walls - she couldn't begin to count the different types left by supplicants to Ares. As her eyes darted around the room, she tried to figure out where the amethyst could be secreted. Lissa's eyes lit up and she stifled a self-satisfied chuckle as she noticed a particularly interesting shield. 'Sparta,' she thought, 'how perfect.' Standing on tiptoe, the dark beauty peered behind the shield to spy - nothing. 'Of course, too obvious. Let's see," she mused. "Amphipolous?" Nothing. "Thebes?" Nothing. "Potadeia?" Nothing. "Corinth?" Nothing. "Thessalonia." Nothing. "Lesbos." Nothing.

"Oh for Petrus' sake," she muttered in disgust. "Where the bloody hell could it BE?" Glancing back toward the altar, she wrinkled her nose at the smell of the aging blood sacrifice. Then her eyes widened as she noticed the mammoth sword hanging behind the altar. "The Sword of Chaos," she breathed. It was larger than any weapon that she'd ever seen, the jeweled handle sparkling brilliantly in the light of the torches surrounding the altar. A single enormous stone adorned the crosspiece. "The amethyst," Lissa smiled craftily. She trod lightly around the great stone table to the back wall where the sword hung above an inscription in letters she could not read.

Lissa reached up and grasped the sword with both hands. As she prepared to lift it from the brackets that held it, strong hands grasped her wrists and pulled them up over her head. "I wouldn't if I were you, my dear," a familiar voice murmured in her ear. "Only the God of War can wield the Sword of Chaos, else Anarchy will rule." He added defensively, "At least that's what it says on the wall." Panic raced across Lissa's face, followed swiftly by guilt before she forced a helpless smile and tilted her head back to look into her captor's eyes.

"Tolly," she said softly, letting her body relax into his grip. "Oh, thank the gods you're ok - I was so worried." She let her eyes fill slowly with tears then tilted her head forward to mask her face behind her dark brown hair. "You must just hate me," she sniffed.

Autolycus' lips twitched and he arched a sardonic eyebrow. She could at least do him the courtesy of using a technique he hadn't taught her. "Lissa, Lissa, Lissa. Now why would you think that? Because you lied to me? Because you set me up? Or because you sold me out again?" With each calm question Autolycus pulled her roughly against him.

"Ah, baby, you don't think I WANTED to do that, do you? I wasn't lying about the warlord, Tolly - after I gave him the stone he beat me nearly to death. If I hadn't done what he said he'd have killed me, I swear!" Lissa's voice shook as she spoke. Autolycus looked down at her skeptically.

"But why me, Liss? You had it made, kid - you'd stolen the stone, passed a fake off, married the rich guy - why'd you need to get me involved?" Autolycus lowered her arms, crossing them in front of her as he used them to pinion her against his chest.

Lissa looked up at him, hazel eyes moving over his curious face. "Well, the story about the fake stone was true - the elders had to examine it next week for some Athena thing. I needed it stolen to cover myself. And after all," she smiled at him, "you are the King of Thieves."

Autolycus laughed softly. "Oh Liss. Incorrigible." They both chuckled and Autolycus relaxed his grip slightly. Seizing her opportunity, Lissa twisted free and grabbed the sword, pulling it from the wall before Autolycus could stop her. She spun around, waving the sword menacingly. Autolycus feinted left and right, trying to avoid the tip of weapon as Lissa poked it at him.

"Big mistake," a smooth voice rumbled through the room. A flash of light and a roar of thunder preceded the sudden appearance of Ares. His black eyes flashed in anger as he lowered his chin and pointed threateningly toward the couple. "MY sword, little girl - put it down or you'll mess up my nice little fight. And then I'll have to mess YOU up."

Autolycus tried to grab the sword from the defiant woman, but she darted out of his reach and spun to face Ares again. "Listen, Battle Boy, maybe we can cut a deal - I'll give you the sword if you'll let me take the jewel. Simple huh? We both get what we want. What do you say?" She smiled winningly at the god, dropping the point of the sword slightly in a gesture of conciliation.

"One problem," Ares raised one eyebrow and tilted his head as he shifted his weight from one leather-clad leg to the other and crossed his arms. "If the Athenians get their stone back, the reason for the war disappears. And everyone knows that's NOT what I want. No, I think you'll be giving me the sword and getting nothing in return. Hand it over, sister." Ares stretched out his hand, staring hard into her eyes.

Lissa took a step back, eyes blazing with anger. "In your dreams, pal. Come and get it." She grasped the handle with both hands, crouching slightly in a battle-ready posture. Autolycus dove for the sword, but he was too late. With a roar of rage, Ares violently thrust his hand toward Lissa, shooting a ball of blue flame. It hit her directly in the chest, throwing her through the air to smash against the back wall. She crashed to the floor in a crumpled heap, her broken body covered with swords and shields. Ares made a grabbing motion and the Sword of Chaos flew to his hand as he said, "Come to papa." Autolycus scrambled over to the fallen woman as the god of war disappeared in a flash of light, laughing as he did so.

"Liss? Sweetheart, please. C'mon, Liss, breathe baby, breathe," Autolycus whispered, cradling her gently in his arms. Her eyes fluttered open and she grabbed him convulsively as she gasped for breath.

"Tolly," she mouthed, "dying." He shook his head violently as he pulled her closer. "Scared," she whispered in his ear as hot tears slipped down her face. "Not a war, just a thief." Her hazel eyes locked on his as she struggled to continue. "Tolly," she gasped, "it hurts." Autolycus wiped her tears away as he stroked her hair. "Please - so scared," she wept, "don't let me die."

"Shhhh, it's okay Liss, I've got you. Don't be afraid, sweetheart, I won't leave you, Liss, Tolly's here," he crooned. Her breathing grew ragged as she continued to struggle, trying to speak. Finally she whispered, "Sorry," and closed her eyes. Autolycus hugged her tightly and then laid her gently on the floor as he kissed her eyelids. "Good-bye, Liss," he said quietly.

Chapter 27

Deepening twilight threw dark shadows across the small chamber. A single flickering candle stood sentinel on a heavy chest against the wall, the flame revealing water-stains over paint of an indeterminate hue. Meagerly furnished even by the humble standards of a roadside tavern, the room held only a small rough table crowded next to a low wooden camp-style bed a few scant feet from the chest. A faded purple vest lay crumpled on the floor at the feet of the figure seated on the rough gray floorboards next to the cot. Her head resting on folded arms, she slowly rolled her forehead back and forth to loosen her aching neck and back muscles, taking care not to disturb the immobile man tucked under the coarse blanket.

The healer had left more than an hour before, having stitched and bandaged Iolaus' wounds. She instructed Katerini to keep him quiet and warm, a normally impossible task made disturbingly easy by the hunter's steadfast refusal to regain consciousness. Helena left a poultice for the cut on his side and poppy powder for the pain once he did come to his senses. The healer suggested that Katerini talk quietly to her patient - even if he didn't appear to hear her, the sound of a familiar voice might help him to focus and wake up.

Raising her head wearily, Katerini looked down on the unconscious man's face - his tanned skin couldn't disguise his pallor from the blood loss. One corner of her mouth drew back in a tremulous attempt at a smile as she smoothed the laugh lines around his eyes with her thumb, the brilliant gentian hidden by his fluttering eyelids. Running her fingers lightly across his forehead and brushing the blond curls back, a sob caught in her throat as she traced the outline of the scar at his temple.

"Oh, Io," she said bitterly, "you were right, I never should have tagged along. It's all my fault." She dropped her head to the bed again, pressing her damp cheek against the back of his hand. Quietly she continued, "Stupid, stubborn me, if I hadn't distracted you you'd be fine right now. You'd have taken care of those two soldiers without breaking a sweat - you'd probably have made some kind of smart remark while you did." Katerini laughed harshly, "Figures the first chance I get to see you guys do the hero thing I get you ki-" she stopped abruptly, then said, "hurt. HURT."

Katerini raised her head to look down at her beloved hunter's face. His eyes closed, the hunter's hair curled softly about his face and caught on the prickly brown fabric of the pillow. She couldn't remember the last time she'd seen him so still - his animated features always displayed his emotions so vividly. His vibrant spirit usually shone from his eyes - even when he slept his ever-changing expression provided a peek into his dreams.

The redhead forced herself to swallow the fear that she'd never see those eyes shine again and cleared her throat, thick with unshed tears. "Watching you and Hercules, unbelievable. So graceful, and you were having so much fun. Easy to see why you've left a trail of happy maidens all over Greece," she choked slightly, "you're so beautiful when you're focused like that - as if I didn't have enough reasons to fall in love with you..." Unable to continue, Katerini dropped her head to her arms again.

Drifting slowly in a soft gray cloud, Iolaus licked his lips. Thirsty. The hunter heaved a mental sigh - he'd danced this dance before, and the thirst always led to the light, which led to the pain. Maybe if he ignored the craving he could stay in the comfort of twilight a bit longer. A familiar sound washed over him as he bobbed in the current, the cadences and tones drawing him up and up to the brightness.

The soothing voice murmured as Iolaus slowly coasted upward. Now he could make out snatches of phrases as he wavered between consciousness and oblivion. "...My fault...stubborn...hero thing...in love with you..." At the last phrase his heart leapt, the rush of blood and adrenaline thrusting him out of the clouds and into reality.

"Ow," Iolaus rasped as his eyes fluttered open. "OW," he repeated louder as sensations came flooding back to his brain from his extremities. A pale worried face came into focus above him as he tried to decide whether to try to raise his head or to just slip back into the cloud. He noticed that a scrape near her right temple had begun to swell slightly, the discoloration vivid against her pallor.

"Io, it's Kat. How do you feel, sweetie? Do you remember what happened?" Katerini's anxious blue eyes darted across the injured hunter's face, checking for signs of confusion or further pain.

"Kat. Thirsty," Iolaus croaked, wincing as the effort to speak jarred his wounded side. He tried to smile reassuringly at his friend but only succeeded in grimacing in pain again.

"Of course, Io, water, of course," Katerini sprang to her feet, the movement of the bed making Iolaus gasp. "Should've stayed out - less wear and tear," he thought as he struggled to focus his mind and move past the throbbing in his side.

Katerini quickly poured water into a cup, spilling most of it in her haste. Turning back to the ashen man, the frightened woman eased herself back onto the side of the bed and offered the water carefully to Iolaus. The hunter mustered all of his strength and sipped, allowing the cool liquid to trickle down his throat as he sank back on the pillow. Katerini leaned forward eagerly as Iolaus began to whisper.

"Where's Herc?" Iolaus queried, easing his head to one side to make sure the demi-god wasn't in the room.

"He's at Ares' temple," Katerini answered, shrugging her shoulders eloquently at the quizzical expression on Iolaus' face. "Beats me - he went to get the healer for you, but she came alone. Said that Hercules sent her while he took care of something at the temple." Absently Katerini pushed a damp lock of hair back from his forehead. The hunter closed his eyes, smiling slightly at the comfort of her cool touch. "Honey, are you hungry at all?" Katerini asked. "Helena said to give you some tea for the pain, and I could get you some soup too if you want it."

"Soup," Iolaus whispered a little more strongly. A little of the nagging fear slipped from Katerini's face at the sound - hunger meant he felt a little better, and it would make it easier to give him the poppy powder that Helen had left.

"I'll be right back," she said, pressing her lips lightly to his forehead as she carefully rose to go.

"Right back," the hunter echoed as the lines around his cerulean eyes deepening slightly at the movement. He weakly plucked at her hand. "Thanks Kat," he smiled in a pale imitation of his normal charming grin, and Katerini's heart turned over as she closed the door behind her.

She returned almost instantly with a blue-gray stone mug filled with steaming tea and a wooden bowl brimming with thick vegetable soup. Iolaus eyed the brew warily, looking like a recalcitrant three-year-old about to refuse to take his medicine. Despite her concern, Katerini grinned at the familiar sight. Placing both containers on the dark stained table by the bed, the woman knelt and looked at him.

"You think you can sit up if I help you, Io?" she asked, his continued pallor alarming her. His bright blue eyes fixed on her and he nodded as he replied.

"Sure, Kat, but let's be careful, okay?" Iolaus gritted his teeth and emitted a grunt as he felt Katerini's arm move behind his shoulders. Slowly and cautiously she helped him to a partially upright position, rolling up blankets and sliding them behind his back for support with her free hand. Iolaus sank back on the makeshift cushions, his head cradled against her shoulder as he struggled to slow his ragged breathing. Katerini felt his hot uneven breath on her neck and unconsciously tightened her grip on the hunter's shoulders, quickly releasing him as he gasped in pain and pressed his soaked forehead into the curve of her neck. "Ow," he said weakly.

"I'm so sorry, Io," she apologized. "Here, try some tea - it'll help." Iolaus looked suspiciously at the dark liquid, sniffing it before taking a tiny sip. He shook his head violently, closing his eyes briefly at the resulting dizziness.

"No way. That's disgusting," he proclaimed, setting his lips firmly closed when Katerini offered the vessel again. "What else you got?" Katerini put the mug down with a withering look and reached for the soup, waving a spoonful under the hunter's skeptical nose.

"Come on Io, at least eat something if you won't take your medicine," she coaxed. Iolaus obediently swallowed a spoonful, smiling as he gestured for her to hand him the spoon. He soon finished the nourishing liquid and sank back on the cushions. A slightly goofy smile started at his mouth and spread to his eyes as Iolaus clumsily rubbed his nose with the back of his hand.

The pain in his side still throbbed, but it felt like someone had put a layer of padding between the wound and him - he felt it, but muffled and from a distance. The hunter looked intently at his fingers, waving them before his eyes and giggling softly. Katerini narrowed her eyes as she watched him - looked like the pain relief had begun to kick in. Iolaus looked up at his concerned friend and smiled even more broadly as he took both of her hands in his. "Kat, were you talking to me before, when I, before I woke up?" the hunter asked, gently squeezing his friend's hands.

Embarrassment and trepidation crossed her face as she answered. "Well, the healer said it would help you focus," she mumbled, "and when you wouldn't wake up - I would have tried anything." Iolaus reached up tenderly to touch the bruise at her temple as Katerini ducked her head shyly.

"Does that hurt, angel?" he asked, his low voice almost a purr. Confused at the sudden shift in the conversation, Katerini nodded hesitantly as she caught the strong callused fingers in her own smaller ones. "It was my own fault - I banged it on the bar trying to get away from those goons." She quickly returned Iolaus' hand to the blanket, adding, "I hadn't seen you and Herc do your hero-thing before, Io - you're amazing. Those guys had to be twice your size and you just destroyed them." Her face darkened as she added, "Until I got in your way and distracted you, that is."

Still smiling, Iolaus gazed intently at Katerini, his pupils enormous in his beautiful eyes. "Did you tell me you're in love with me?" he demanded. "Did you? 'Cuz I LOVE you Kat and it would be so COOL if you loved me. You do, don't you? You LOVE me! And I LOVE you!" With each declaration of his feelings Iolaus got louder and more emphatic.

Katerini flushed bright red. She'd thought that the poppy powder would knock Iolaus out, not cause him to blither. Nervously she looked into his eyes as Iolaus repeated more quietly, "I love you Kat. And you love me." His face brightened as a thought struck him and he began to pull on her hands. "Kiss me? Please, Kitty-Kat, kiss me?" He slid one hand up to cup her face, his thumb gently caressing her cheekbone as he leaned forward.

"I'm so tired of pretending," Katerini said softly as his cerulean eyes worked on her like twin magnets, drawing her closer with every beat of her heart. "I do love you, Io," she whispered as their lips met. After a long, blissful moment Katerini drew back a fraction. Iolaus stared at her, mesmerized by the love and fragile hope shining from her eyes. "I love you, Kat," he repeated one last time before the poppies claimed him for healing slumber.

Katerini pulled the blanket closer around his neck and lightly kissed the sleeping man's nose. "I love you, Io," she said, moving across the room to sit on the floor again, this time with her back against the trunk. Wrapping her arms around her bent legs, the weary woman rested her head on her knees and closed her eyes.



To be continued...