Unveiled or Seven Days –  By Marista

DISCLAIMER: Xena, Gabrielle, Ares, Aphrodite and all the rest are property of Universal Studios/MCA. This is a shipper’s story, no subtext here. No violence, either but there is a mild language warning.

Sex: Yes, but nothing too explicit.

Violence: No

Subtext: No, this is shipper country all the way.

Feedback and constructive criticism are welcome. I hope you enjoy the story.

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Aphrodite sat in her chambers on Olympus thinking about her brother. He had just snapped at her again for no reason. His mood swings and harsh disposition were really starting to worry her. She wanted to go talk to him, but decided against it. He was probably sitting in his chambers doing the only thing that ever seemed to calm him down, watch Xena. But it just didn’t fit, all he ever did was harass her. The more she thought about his behavior towards Xena, the more it began to make sense. When Xena followed Ares as his chosen he spent all of his time watching her. Anytime Aphrodite visited him she would find one of those image windows that the gods could create to look down upon mankind without being detected; and invariably Xena was on it.

The thing that had always struck her as strange was that Xena wasn’t always fighting. Aphrodite would walk in and look at the image window and see Xena eating, sleeping, practicing, daydreaming or even having sex. She recalled one day asking Ares why he watched her even when she wasn’t fighting. His response was as his chosen he had to make sure she was on the right path in every aspect of her life; it was integral to her training. It seemed to make sense at the time, but if she had given it an ounce of thought, it really wouldn’t have. She continued to think about the past, it was strange that Ares had never visited Xena face to face even though he watched her constantly. He regularly visited other warlords and spoke with them face to face, but to his chosen he was only a presence she would feel accompanied by a voice giving her advice, guiding her. He watched her, guided her, but couldn’t bring himself to stand before her. Imagine -- A god who could not stand in the face of a mortal woman.

He never stood face to face with Xena until he had to, until she left him. And when she left him he did nothing but plan and scheme ways to bring her back to him. At least he didn’t constantly watch her anymore, but she was always on his mind. Aphrodite saw the situation so clearly now, this wasn’t about grooming the perfect warrior, nor was it just an obsession, he was in love with her. In all the centuries they had lived she had never seen him experience love, or anything remotely related. He specialized in his craft which was war and warfare. His idea of love was sex, and his idea of a relationship was to have sex with someone more than once. ‘No wonder he’s all bummed out’ thought Aphrodite. ‘He doesn’t understand his feelings, or what to do about them.’

Aphrodite decided to help him. She needed to throw herself into the solution so she waved her arms and little pink and red hearts floated all around her. She saturated her chamber with love so she could concentrate. She considered getting her son Cupid involved. ‘If I just shot Xena with one of Cupid’s arrows, she would love him and Ares would have everything he wanted.’ But the more she thought about it, she realized Ares could have used his powers to coerce her in the first place. It wouldn’t have been a love spell, but the end result would be the same, she would be his but not of her own will. ‘No, no, no! a love spell over Xena wouldn’t be the right answer’.

‘Hmmm if only Ares hadn’t expressed his feelings in such a malicious way, perhaps Xena would have loved him on her own? He pretended to be her father, he almost got her trapped in Tartarus, framed her for murder, drove her insane with the furies.’ Aphrodite sighed; it seemed hopeless until an idea popped into her head. "I could make her forget!" she said as she clapped her hands together in victory. She folded her arms around herself and squeezed tightly so proud of her plan. Then it dawned on her "Gabrielle!" she shouted. Even after Xena forgets, Gabrielle would remember and recount every detail to Xena. "Yep, I’ll have to Swiss cheese both their minds." She snapped her fingers and a book of enchantments and charms appeared. She started looking for a charm so she could erase just certain memories when it hit her "The Scrolls!" she shouted. Gabrielle made it her life’s work to recount every detail of Xena’s adventures, and not only did she write them down, but she told half of Greece. Someone was bound to reveal the truth, and there was no way that Aphrodite had the strength to erase all the minds of Greece.

On and on her plans were spun and always hit some fatal flaw. She considered breaking up Xena and Gabrielle’s friendship, but she realized that’s what Ares had been trying to do all along, and it hadn’t worked. She considered kidnapping Xena and Ares, leave them together on a deserted isle and let nature take its course. But why would Xena go along with it knowing that Ares had the power to free them at any time. She considered just telling Xena the truth. Then she just laughed at herself and thought ‘yeah that would go over well.’ "Hi Xena, you know my brother Ares, the one who’s been screwing with your life for all these years was actually in love with you the whole time, and it would be great if you loved him back so he wouldn’t be sad and moody anymore." She imagined the shocked look on Xena’s face and then the wrath she would inflict on Ares, after all it would be the perfect opportunity for revenge. ‘Maybe I should turn Ares into a horse? Xena seems to really like horses. She shook her head ‘that’s just stupid’. Aphrodite frowned, then thought, ’What if I gave Xena the power of insight into Ares heart? What if I went back in time and changed Ares’ deeds?’ Hours went by and still Aphrodite had nothing solid. ‘Oh Ares, if only I had known, I could have guided you and changed this whole situation. Or I could have changed you.’ Aphrodite started to slowly walk in circles as the threads to a plan slowly wove themselves in her mind again. She thought to herself ‘Yes, if I could change Ares in such a way that Xena could see the real Ares, she might love him on her own.’ Aphrodite started jumping up and down, happy that she may have finally found a solution to all her brother’s problems "Bitchen!" She opened up her book of enchantments again and began reading.

XXXXXX

Aphrodite popped into her brother’s chamber; of course he had an image of Xena on his picture window. She was sleeping soundly near a dying fire somewhere in the woods. This made Aphrodite beam even more, it confirmed she was doing the right thing.

"Hey Bro."

"Hey Dite. What are you so happy about? Find a new shade of lipstick?"

She frowned for a second and decided to ignore his remark; after all her brother was heart broken. ‘Once he’s with his beloved he will stop being so grumpy all the time’ she thought.

"No Bro. But I did find this."

She threw her hand forward and a pink beam shot out at Ares. She caught him by surprise, he tried to dive out of his chair, but he was too late. The beam hit him and he fell to the floor unable to move or speak.

"Bro, you need to be yourself with Xena. If she saw the real you she might love you as much as you love her." Ares’ eyes bulged with surprise.

"Yes Ares, face the truth; you’re got it bad for tall, dark and gorgeous. You are totally head over heels in love with her. Every scheme to get her back as your warrior Queen was really about getting her to be your companion, your beloved, perhaps even your lover. I’m here to help you with your problem. For the next 7 days you will be unable to mask your true feelings from yourself or anyone else. You will see the truth and not be able to hide it any longer. Use this time to win her heart; I give you permission to be free Ares. But I warn you Bro, 7 days will go quickly. Use the time wisely because a chance like this might not come to you again. Toodles."

She snapped her fingers, he fell unconscious as his body was enveloped in pink light, and then it slowly faded away.

XXX DAY ONE XXX

It was the break of dawn, the first hints of the sun were coming over the horizon. Xena’s eyes opened slowly. She always enjoyed the mornings, it was her time to think and get her head clear before she had to face the day. She breathed deeply of the cool crisp morning air, the dew wet on the grass about her. She sat up and stretched out her muscles. She would have a workout, a bath, start a fire for breakfast then attempt to wake Gabrielle.

XXXXXX

Ares slowly opened his eyes. He was laying on the ground in the woods. He looked around and tried to remember how he’d gotten there. He was pondering why he would be in the woods when he heard motion about 100 feet from him. He kept hidden and tried to spy out who it was. He saw Xena gathering wood, in her leathers, no armor her hair was wet. He wasn’t close enough for her to sense his presence so he could watch her unhindered. Even when she performed such a meaningless chore as collecting wood she moved with grace and beauty. He sat watching her, his conversation with Aphrodite came back to him. He shook his head over her accusation that he was in love with her. However, the longer he looked at Xena the more he realized it was true. Once he acknowledged the possibility of his feelings it was like a dam broke. The feelings were so strong it was almost frightening. It was as if his heart had suddenly burst open with emotion. He sat there considering his feelings and their history together. After all he’d done could he ever repair the damage? What a fool he had been. He considered what he would do next; he could still flee - just go back to Olympus and hide in his chamber until the 7 days were up. Then he was awed as she stopped for a moment. Her eyes were closed and her face was towards the first strong rays of the morning sun. He smiled as he watched her enjoy the sunshine. He’d seen her do it before, but never in person. In that moment he knew he had to try. It didn’t matter, he would beg, grovel or do whatever penance it took, but he had to at least try to be with her. When he thought about it he didn’t want her back as his warrior, Aphrodite was right, he genuinely wanted her to be his beloved. To be the goddess of war, or something so they would be together always. Since he couldn’t hide his feelings anyway he would try a completely new strategy to him – honesty.

XXXXXX

Xena returned to the camp with extra firewood in hand. Her hair still wet from her morning bath. She knelt to rekindle the fire and then she felt him. Her whole body stiffened as she braced herself for whatever havoc the war god would bring with him this time. She stood up, her face in a slight scowl. "What do you want?"

Ares appeared before her. She furrowed her eyebrows. Something was different, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. ‘Probably the set up for yet another ruse’ she thought to herself.

"Nothing." He said sheepishly.

"I see. So you’re just hanging around my camp for no reason?"

"No, I wanted to see you."

"You mean you wanted to see how you would torment me, or trick me or something. Well forget it, I’m not going to give you that chance. And, I am not coming back to you, so why don’t you just save us both a little time and leave!"

Xena’s pain was so apparent to him. He knew he was the cause and he regretted it deeply. For the first time he honestly expressed his feelings to her.

"Xena I’m sorry for all the things I did to you. I never meant to hurt you."

Xena’s eyes were wide with surprise. Not only did he apologize, but he seemed to be sincere.

"Ares never apologizes. You’re not the real Ares."

"Oh I can assure you that I am the real Ares. But I have been through a change recently. My sister, Aphrodite put a spell on me. It removed my mask and made me face the truth."

"And what would that be?"

Ares looked inwardly for a second, allowing his feelings to give him the unction to continue. He would finally speak to her what his heart had been telling him all along. He cleared his throat. As he started to speak, his voice began to crack with the weight of his emotions, but he continued.

"I am… in love with you Xena, and… always have been. The things I did were because I love you, and couldn’t… admit the truth to myself or you. So I expressed them the only way I knew how."

Xena eyed him suspiciously and chuckled "Do you really expect me to buy that? This is just another trick, and a bad one at that."

"For once, Xena I am coming to you with complete honesty. Yes, I do have a motive, I want for you and I to be together always, but there’s no game this time. No lies, no use of my powers, no tricks, and no contracts. I stand before you as someone in love with you, nothing more."

"I don’t believe you. And you say that you are not using your powers, well you said yourself that Aphrodite put a spell on you. How do you know that part of it wasn’t a love spell?"

"That’s a fair question, but what I feel for you now is what I have always felt. But instead of hiding it, I want to scream it from the top of Mt. Olympus. I love your spirit, and your fire. I love the way no one, and nothing stands in your way. I love your power, your beauty and the passion you put into what you believe. I love the way your eyes sparkle, I love the way you smile in the middle of a battle and all I want is the chance to spend time with you."

Xena stood eying him, trying to figure the situation out. She was visibly moved by his words and the passion behind them. Ares decided to ask the question that would show him just how much damage he’d have to repair before he could start building a relationship with her, if he could. "How do you feel about me?" Xena’s expression changed for a second with something Ares couldn’t identify. Xena’s mind was swirling, she was caught off guard by the nature of this confrontation and the question. She was definitely attracted to him, no matter how she tried not to be. He was just her type, charismatic, strong, muscular, very good looking and the ultimate bad boy. So much had passed between them; he had tormented her in so many ways that she had trained her mind to see him as the enemy, so in the end the only thing left was a mild physical attraction.

Ares started to shift uncomfortably under the silence. "It’s alright, you don’t have to answer now. I was hoping to spend the next few days with you, if you’ll let me. Perhaps it will give you time to get to know me, get to know the real me. No tricks, no strings and then you can decide."

Her curiosity was piqued by this new ruse. As much as she wanted to believe his words they just couldn’t be true. She decided she would let him stay so that she could keep an eye on him.

"You can hang around if you want to; it makes no difference to me." Ares’ heart soared at Xena’s concession of him staying, no matter her lack of enthusiasm.

Xena continued with the morning routine, but her distraction with Ares cost her some time. She wasn’t pressed for time, but she liked getting an early start. She and Gabrielle had been on the road for awhile, it was one crisis after another and the strain was getting to Gabrielle. Xena’s plan was to make it to Thebes by the end of the week for the harvest festival so Gabrielle could have some fun and for a few days. The harvest festival was 8 days away but she wanted to get there as early as possible to relax before it began. She looked over at the peacefully sleeping bard and thought ‘I hope you appreciate the extra sleep you’re getting.’

Ares took up residence on a nearby rock. He watched Xena as she rekindled the fire and boiled water for tea. Gabrielle woke on her own for once, when she opened her eyes she was shocked to see Ares sitting there looking at her. Gabrielle got up with a start, grabbed her staff, and assumed a defensive position. Ares had a very amused look on his face as he addressed the bard.

"And what exactly are you planning on doing with that?"

Gabrielle didn’t flinch. "Where’s Xena, what have you done with her?"

"I’m right here" said Xena as she came from the area that held their saddle bags. She had a bag of tea leaves in one hand, fruit and cheese in the other.

"Good, Xena’s Ok. Now leave."

"Of course Xena’s OK. I would never hurt her."

Gabrielle just looked at him and laughed. "Oh right. After all the things you’ve done? How dumb do you think we are? We want you to get out of here now! Right Xena?"

Xena just stood there behind the bard looking at Ares. She’d already agreed he could stay, but she hadn’t figured how she would break that news to Gabrielle. Gabrielle’s eyes flickered with Xena’s silence.

"Right Xena?" she asked again with more emphasis.

When Xena still didn’t answer Gabrielle turned around and looked at her with a bewildered expression.

"Ares asked to travel with us a few days. I agreed, it’s no big deal. He’ll be gone soon."

"I can’t believe what I’m hearing." She turned back to Ares. "You put some kind of spell on her, I know you did. Remove the spell and go packing you bastard."

Ares just sat there, his face souring with the bard’s words. He was trying to think of a way to diffuse the situation. He knew it would already be difficult enough to win Xena’s heart, but having an angry Gabrielle around made the task that much harder. Xena addressed Gabrielle’s last challenge.

"There’s no spell on me Gabrielle."

"Then why would you let him travel with us, he’s done nothing but cause us grief and pain."

Ares winced with the truth of that last statement. If Gabrielle had really looked at Ares, looked into his eyes she would have seen the profound regret there.

"Because there’s a spell on him."

"What?" replied Gabrielle.

"Aphrodite put a spell on him that stops him from hiding his true feelings and motives."

Gabrielle grabbed Xena by the arm and pulled her to the other side of the clearing. She walked fast and purposefully, her mane of blonde hair shaking angrily behind her. Ares merely sat where he was, watching with trepidation.

"Are you insane? This is Ares! You know that guy that’s been doing everything he can to get you to come back and be his warlord?"

"Gabrielle, listen! I already told him he could travel with us and I don’t go back on my word. Besides, something’s up and this way it helps me keep tabs on what he’s doing. Don’t worry we’ll travel and he’ll leave. It’s not a big deal if we don’t make it a big deal. Now let’s go back and get some breakfast."

Gabrielle frowned, but turned and followed Xena back to the camp where she continued making tea. Once the fire was burning high and the water warming Xena sat down and started to brush out her wet hair. Ares saw his opportunity and stood behind her, grabbed her hand, and gently removed the brush.

"What are you doing" asked Xena with suspicion.

"Please" replied Ares, "let me do this for you".

Ares knelt down and began to brush the wet hair softly, handling it as if it were the finest silk. Ares’ gentle strokes relaxed her, she allowed herself to be at ease for the moment. She pondered his words of love earlier. ‘Oh Ares, you don’t know how much I want to believe you.’ After a few minutes she closed her eyes and simply enjoyed the gentleness she felt with every stroke.

XXXXXX

Xena and Ares talked amiable as they walked side by side almost strolling. Xena held Argo’s reigns loosely as her palomino kept stride behind them. Gabrielle however wasn’t having such a good time. For once she was walking ahead of Xena. Periodically she would look back to make sure that she was on the right road and the sight of Ares and Xena together made her blood boil. She understood Xena’s tactic of keeping your enemies close at hand, but she was also painfully aware of Xena’s attraction to bad boys, and Ares was the baddest of them all. She wasn’t just upset because of the pain he caused Xena, but the pain he caused her as well. The fear she felt when he set Xena up to be tried for murder, the anguish when Xena lost her mind, the torment of having to live with Xena in Callisto’s body and the despair when he threatened to kill her if she harmed Hope. She wasn’t just afraid for Xena, she was also afraid for herself. Ares had almost succeeded in turning Xena so many times, appealing to her darkness, causing her to lose the progress she had worked so hard for time after time. Ultimately her loathing rested with the fact that she knew Ares wanted to separate her from Xena. She had the ability to pull the warrior back every time she was on the brink of giving into her dark side. In the end she knew only one of them could be in Xena’s life, she was going to do everything within her power to make sure it was her.

She turned back again "Hey you two want to move it along, or we’ll never make it to Thebes in time."

XXXXXX

Xena went off into the woods to scout the perimeter and hunt for dinner. There was an uneasy silence with just Ares and Gabrielle in the campsite. Ares decided to try and bridge the gap between him and Gabrielle. In the time they had been together Gabrielle had grown to mean so much to Xena. He figured that there was no way to really split them up, so he had no choice but to befriend her, if he could. The bard was completing her set up of camp for that night.

"May I help you Gabrielle?"

She stopped dead in her tracks, shocked by the question; but she would not allow herself to be taken in by this well-groomed demon.

"If you really wanted to help me you’d leave us alone."

Ares pursed his lips "I’m afraid I can’t do that Gabrielle. I’m in love with Xena and I intend to become part of her life. She’s very fond of you and for that reason I hope that we can make peace between us."

Gabrielle turned to look at him with a face that had a mixture of shock and disgust.

"How dare you use words like love and peace! You don’t even know what they mean. You speak of peace but you are the catalyst for war and violence all over the known world. You say you love her yet you’ve done nothing but torment her. You damn near killed her more than once. You can’t speak of love; you don’t even know what the word means!"

Ares hand shook slightly, a shimmer of blue light fell from his fingertips. Gabrielle didn’t know how close to death she had just come. He wanted nothing but to blow her into a thousand pieces, but his love for Xena outweighed any negative feelings he had for the bard. Ares remembered the spell and realized that if he were the bard he would feel the same way. So he did the only thing he could at this time, he told her the truth.

"Gabrielle you’re right, I am the god of war, but without me people wouldn’t know peace. War is what I do, and someone has to do it in order to maintain balance. As for love, I do know what it means. My love for Xena consumes me. Before her I didn’t know what love meant, or what it felt like. I’ve never loved anyone before, and until this spell I never could have even admitted it, much less acted on it. All I ever wanted was to be with her, so I went about it the only way I knew. I put her in situations where she would have to turn to me, have to depend upon me, have to be with me. Every time I waited for her to call out for me, but she never did. When one of my plans backfired and she died I was devastated. I just couldn’t let her stay dead."

Gabrielle looked at Ares with astonishment. "What do you mean? You had a hand in her coming back to life?"

Ares looked down and shook his head as he realized he said more than he planned, but he already said so much, there was no point in stopping now.

"Gabrielle how many dead people have you ever heard about coming back to take over the bodies of the living? I called in a favor and had my uncle Hades give her that ability, I left the information for her to find about the dagger of Helios and how the ambrosia could bring her back. I couldn’t explain it at the time, but I understood that I couldn’t let her stay dead."

Gabrielle’s eyes were wide with surprise. In a much gentler tone that her previous one, she asked "Does she know?"

"No, she doesn’t. And there’s no need for her to know." Ares looked up suddenly "She’s coming. Please don’t tell her."

Gabrielle nodded "I won’t".

As they ate their meal Gabrielle re-considered Ares. She looked over at him and he was gazing at Xena intermittently. His feelings for her were very plainly written on his face. She thought to herself ‘Perhaps he is sincere, but what’s going to happen when that spell wears off?’

XXX DAY TWO XXX

Although, Gabrielle didn’t think as harshly about Ares, she still chose to walk ahead of Xena and Ares rather than with them.

"I can’t believe you’re still here."

"Why?" he asked with genuine curiosity.

"This is an awful lot of trouble to go through for a roll in the hay. And by the way, it’s not going to happen."

"Is that what you think, that I just want to have sex?" Ares was hurt that Xena thought so little of his proclamation of love. "Come on Xena, I’m not looking for a sex partner. I’ve got temples all over Greece with priestess’ and followers that I could have sex with all day long if that’s what I wanted."

Xena noted the hurt in his voice, but decided to continue with her questions.

"Ok, I’ll give you that… so it’s more than just sex. Then, you either like the way I look or you like that I’m a warrior. Perhaps it’s a combination of the two. Answer me honestly Ares, if I didn’t look like this would you still ‘love’ me?"

"That’s a fair question. But if I wanted someone who looked like you I’d go get Meg and have sex with her. I could train her to be a fighter and dress her up in a warriors outfit. It wouldn’t matter I still wouldn’t love her." He looked at Xena intensely. "You do have a beautiful face but I’ve seen in dozens of times before. Every generation seems to yield at least 6 women who have that exact same face." Xena’s eyes raised slightly in surprise. "I can’t tell you why exactly, but the fates seem to be partial to certain faces, and yours is one of them. Through all the ages I have been alive there have been many beautiful women warriors. Many I have desired, and most I have bedded." Ares looked at her sincerely "Only one have I ever loved."

Xena took long moments to weigh out everything she’d just heard. It was Ares who finally broke the silence.

"I have something for you."

"Ares I don’t want anything from you."

"Perhaps, but I want you to have it anyway."

Ares opened his hand in front of Xena and a huge blue Sapphire gemstone appeared in his palm. Xena’s awed expression reflected the beauty of the stone. He held it out for her and she hesitantly took it from him, admiring the way in shined in the light. When she held it in her hand it took up most of her palm.

"It’s beautiful Ares." Ares smiled with her appreciation of the stone.

"It matches your eyes. Let me have sword."

"Why?"

"Please, trust me."

Xena removed her sword and handed it to Ares. He took the jewel from her and pressed it into the cross section of her sword, then handed it back to Xena. She looked it over and flipped it in her hand a few times, the balance and weight of the sword was still perfect. The jewel evenly showed through both sides of the sword.

"Ares, I can’t accept this. Please remove it."

"Why not? It’s a gift for you. There are no strings attached if that’s what you’re concerned about." She opened her mouth to protest again and he quickly added "There’s no spell or enchantments on the stone either. Please Xena, accept this. If nothing else, take it as my apology for the pain I caused you in the past."

Xena looked at her sword again, she had to admit she did like the distinct look the stone gave her sword. She looked at Ares, still trying to make up her mind and after a long few moments she returned the sword to her scabbard.

"Thank you."

Further down the road Xena turned to Ares. "Ares, I appreciate the gift and your sentiments towards me, but surely you realize that there can be nothing between us."

Ares swallowed hard as he absorbed her words. "Why Xena? You do feel something for me, I know it, I can see it in your eyes. Why can’t we have a future?"

"Ares, you are the god of war, and I don’t want to be a warlord. I want to continue on my path of helping people and trying to make up for the evil I’ve done it my past."

"Don’t be limited in your thinking. What we each do, our roles in life don’t have to have anything to do with our relationship."

"I don’t see how it couldn’t. You help create warlords, they go to you for strength and guidance. I stop warlords and protect those they would hurt. We are fighting on opposite sides, we will always be at odds, how can we ever be together?"

Ares considered her words then stated "gods have a different perspective on those matters. Take my sister for example. She is love and I am war. These two things couldn’t be more opposite, yet we co-exist together, in harmony. Our relationship as brother and sister is not infringed upon by our roles. The same goes for Artemis, goddess of the moon and Apollo, god of the sun. It’s the same for many gods and it could be the same for you and me."

"What about Hercules? If what you say is true then why do you and Hercules fight and hate each other?"

"Hercules is a very different story. There are many other factors involved than what you know of, or what you see. Our problems go far beyond our roles in life."

"Ok, I’ll give you that. But it would still be difficult."

"True it may not be easy, but think of it this way, we are both necessary. Xena, there must be war. War, hate, violence is a part of the natural order of things. Remember when my sword was stolen, the effect on the people without a god of war? Without war, no one would understand peace, the world would be in chaos. There must also be heroes; if the world were overrun with war it would destroy itself. We are both necessary, and there’s no reason why this should keep us apart."

"Your words make sense, but I need to think about them."

"Fair enough." Replied Ares with new found hope and a smile.

XXX DAY 3 XXX

It had been an uneventful day, and their travel speed had picked up. Gabrielle was grateful for that. Technically it didn’t really matter because when they reached Thebes Ares would still be there. But she felt that in a town there would be many things going on and perhaps those distractions would keep Xena and Ares apart. They were starting to get too chummy for her peace of mind.

They found a clearing and started setting up camp for the night. Xena looked over at Ares. He was pickup up sticks and twigs for kindling. Xena’s eyes lingered on him, taking him in inch by inch. Since he was occupied with the task at hand, for once he wasn’t looking at her and it gave her ample opportunity to enjoy him. Ares may not have noticed, but Gabrielle did. She stood looking at Xena and an ever so slight sneer began to come over her face. Ares spotted more of the kindling to his right and he turned abruptly and decided to sneak a look at Xena. Their eyes met and he knew she had been watching him. She quickly turned away and set her focus on unpacking her gear. Gabrielle noticed that Ares smiled, but it wasn’t the smirk she expected, it was a pleasant and appreciative smile.

Xena stood and prepared to go into the woods to hunt, and Gabrielle followed her. As they were at the edge of the clearing Xena turned.

"What’s up?"

Gabrielle’s face was serious, but not angry. "You desire him, don’t you?"

Xena was slightly taken back by the bard’s forthrightness. "He is the god of war" replied Xena.

She turned to leave, but Gabrielle grabbed her arm. "That’s not what I asked you".

Xena looked away for a moment as if grappling with herself. "Yes, I desire him." She turned hoping that the conversation was over, but she wasn’t that fortunate.

"Do you love him?"

There was no judgment in Gabrielle’s voice, it was merely an inquiry. Xena looked Gabrielle in the eyes, and Gabrielle detected just a hint of fear there. The average person never would have seen it, but she knew her friend too well. Xena cleared her throat and looked over Gabrielle’s shoulders for a moment at Ares. Her heart skipped a beat at the sight of him, even though she tried to keep her emotions under control. With each passing second Gabrielle was growing uneasy. Normally Xena would have answered "no" very quickly and been done with it. Instead, after what seemed like an eternity, she turned to Gabrielle and said

"I don’t know."

Gabrielle’s heart sank. She wanted to press the issue more, but she realized that Xena needed to sort this out for herself.

XXXXXX

As Xena lay in her bedroll she surveyed the area, so much seemed so ordinary. There was the smell of the dying camp fire, the light of the moon high over head and the form of Gabrielle sleeping soundly next to her. But it wasn’t an ordinary night. She looked across the fire and her eyes met with big brown ones… Ares’ eyes. He was staring at her, as he did every moment he could. By now, he had stopped trying to hide the fact that he was doing so. While they were walking earlier that day, he told her that he loved to watch her sleep. She thought about more of their conversations. She never realized he had a sense of humor, or that he had all the feelings most mortals do. In some ways they were more intense, and in others less. He wasn’t an unfeeling monster, but things like death and suffering have little meaning when you know they will never touch you. How could he fear death, she was his cousin. She never thought how being alive for so long would have such an effect on a persons perspectives. She was beginning to understand him. She always loved the sense of power that emanated from him, but now seeing this side of him changed her view. ‘And in all the millennia he’s been alive, no one else has ever caused him to feel love until me’. The thought was overwhelming. She turned away from him and resumed her view of the moon and stars. She thought to herself ‘I could love him’. Then her face went serious. It would be so simple if she were an ordinary woman and he an ordinary man, but they weren’t. She was the warrior princess. A woman who had the capability of destroying countless lives on a whim if she allowed her rage, anger and darkness to go unchecked. He was the god of war, the spirit of war embodied. He was everything she was trying to get away from. If she didn’t have the ability to carry out the desires of her dark side it would be different, but she did. The two of them together could wreak havoc all over the known world if she became his warrior queen. ‘No’ she thought to herself. In spite of his relationship with Aphrodite, she couldn’t know if she could withstand the temptation. She strengthened the walls around her heart. She may be strongly attracted to him, but she could not, would not allow herself to love him.

XXX DAY 4 XXX

When Xena woke she noticed that Ares wasn’t around. She wondered where he was, but continued with her morning routine. After drills she went for a bath. Ares appeared a short time later in the camp. Even though he was spending his time with Xena he still had to make sure his basic duties were done. When he arrived in the camp he decided to fill the water skins. He was so proud of himself to perform a needed duty without being asked. He wanted to show Xena he could be thoughtful and considerate. He materialized by the waters edge. He knelt and put the first skin in the water, he was interrupted by a big splash of water. Ares looked up and was greeted by the sight of Xena’s naked form suddenly emerging from beneath. The water just reached her hips. Their eyes locked. He was mesmerized by the sheer beauty of her naked form and how her wet skin glistened in the first rays of sunlight. He had seen her nakedness many times before, but that was on his image window, never in person.

"What are you doing here?" she asked.

Xena made no move to hide or cover herself. Ares looked as if he was in a daze, and after long moments he held up his hands with the water skins

"I wanted to fill these with water."

Xena was taken back by the intensity of Ares’ stare. She had never seen such awe and desire in anyone’s eyes before and it made her happy knowing she was the source of it. Standing before him she felt as if she were Aphrodite, as if she were the most beautiful and desirable woman in the world. She felt like a goddess.

"Don’t let me stop you." She smiled as she turned and dove back into the water. He stood and watched her moving under the water.

Her head popped up "I thought you were going to fill those?"

He jumped, startled out of his trance and knelt down to fill the skins. Once the skins were filled he simply stood there continuing to watch her.

Again she called to him "I’ll meet you back at the camp."

Finally Ares’ form disappeared. Xena smiled, she was enjoying this game.

XXXXXX

After a good day of traveling, an adequate campsite was found. Gabrielle was setting up camp for the night. Xena went to patrol the area and Ares went with her. During the day they ran into a traveler who spoke of thieves in the woods. Xena needed to make sure their position was secure for the night.

Ares’ desires were getting the best of him. He was running out of time and he wanted to touch her while he could still express his feelings, he wanted to taste her lips and feel her in his embrace. Just the thought made his heart ache for her. But did she trust him yet? If she didn’t trust him, attempting to kiss her could set him back at square one with her. He decided it was worth the risk. He stood in front of her and gently ran his hand over her cheek. She didn’t flinch or move. It was always so hard to read her face, he wasn’t sure what she was feeling. He leaned in slowly, giving her ample opportunity to back away or turn her head if she chose, but she didn’t. He gently pressed his lips against hers and after a moment, he felt her respond to him. Encouraged, he lingered at her soft smooth lips. He ended the kiss and looked into her ice blue eyes. He lost himself for a moment in them, then leaned in to kiss her again. This time she put her arms around his neck and he moved his around her slim waist, pulling her close. Oh how he wanted her, not just for now, but for all time. Then his desire betrayed him. His passion came alive in his pants so suddenly that he didn’t have a chance to try and put a little distance between him and Xena in the hopes that he could hide it somehow. He felt her jerk slightly and he knew she had felt his erection. Their kiss broke and he turned away knowing that he had just ruined the moment. He lowered his head and waited for the sound of her retreating footsteps. He decided he would go back to Olympus and put some space between them for a few hours before he approached her again, give her a little time to get over her anger at him.

"Ares!"

The sound of her voice was different to him, he turned around expecting to feel her wrath, instead she stood there with her scabbard in her hands. She lowered it to the ground and removed her breastplate. Ares lips parted slightly with his surprise. He didn’t quite know what to expect from her, so he just stood there. She approached him rapidly, grabbed his head and pulled him for a deep passionate kiss. Ares put his arms around her waist again, and pulled her close to him. It was a sweet torture having his erection pressed against her through their clothes. With a flick of his wrist he could make their clothes disappear, but he fought back the urge. Finally the kiss broke and they stood there, foreheads touching, both panting out of lack of air. Ares wanted so much to continue, but he could read by her subtle body language that she was ready to stop. They would go no further tonight. He closed his eyes and tried to capture this moment in his senses forever. The smell of her, the feel of her in his arms, the softness of her skin, the tingling and sense of loss on his lips from just being kissed by her.

Finally Xena broke the silence "We need to head back".

Her voice was shaky and her walk slightly unsteady as she stepped away from him. After she spoke with him, her lips remained parted, her passion still as evident. She picked up her armor hesitantly and Ares thought for a second she might put it back down and come back into his arms, but then the indecisiveness left her face. With focus and determination on her face she put her breastplate and scabbard on and headed towards camp.

"I’ll meet you there later." He called out and disappeared in a flash of light.

XXX Xena’s Perspective XXX

Xena turned to leave camp and scout for the thieves. She felt Ares following her. When she questioned him, he reminded her how vicious this group of thieves was hailed to be by the traveler. She knew it was just the exaggeration of peasants sorely in need of excitement, but she actually wanted his company so she didn’t press the issue. As they moved along through the woods she rolled the vow she’d made the night before over in head ‘I cannot love him’, but somehow she could not get her heart to cooperate. As much as she tried, the walls around her heart were failing her, she was developing feelings for him.

After heading out into the woods he stopped suddenly. Xena stopped also and tried to sense the danger, but she felt nothing. They stood facing each other; Ares was staring at her so intensely. Again it was that look that made her feel like the most desirable woman that ever lived. Slowly he approached her and kissed her. This god could have crushed her with one hand, yet his movements towards her were so cautious and careful it aroused Xena completely. The kiss was soft, and she had no idea he could be so gentle. Her resolve started to give way, and she kissed him back. As the kiss intensified she felt his manhood harden against her. He abruptly pulled away from her and turned his back, but she ached for more of his touch. She was just as aroused as he, just not obviously so. She knew this was her chance to escape and end the encounter, but she didn’t want to. She gave into her carnal desires and started to pull off scabbard. She wanted to feel his body pressed closely to hers without the armor. She called to him and let her passions flow she pulled him into a deep kiss. She didn’t know how far she wanted to let this go, and didn’t care to think about it either. She would enjoy his touch as she wanted and she’d think about stopping later. After several minutes of touching and kissing she knew she was approaching the point of no return. She could feel that her breeches were soaked. If she didn’t stop now she’d end up coupling with him right in the woods on the cold bare ground. She wanted him, but there was so much at stake, too much to consider. To her surprise Ares seemed to sense her mood and when she pulled away he backed off without protest. As she put on her armor she almost changed her mind, but strengthened her resolve and walked away.

XXXXXX

Back at the camp, Xena took out her whet stone and began her sharpening ritual. Gabrielle looked up from her scroll and the stone in Xena’s sword caught her eye. She came over and pulled the sword away from Xena.

"Problem?"

"Where did you get a new sword from in the middle of nowhere? Ares gave you this sword, didn’t he?"

"No. It’s the same sword I’ve always had." Replied Xena as she took it back from Gabrielle.

"Xena, your sword never had a blue gemstone in it. This is a different sword."

"No, same sword. Just the stone is new."

"Xena, you can’t accept gifts from him. Besides, who knows what kind of spell he put on it?"

"Gabrielle, there’s no spell on the stone. There are no strings attached to the stone. Besides, it looks good." She held it up, letting the fire light dance in the gem.

"When did he give this to you?"

"Two days ago, but what difference does it make?"

"None, I guess. I just wanted to know." Gabrielle looked around for a moment. "I was trying to figure out if your attitude towards him changed when you received this."

Xena looked at her friend. "You think he enchanted the stone. Gabrielle, I can assure you that it’s not."

Gabrielle didn’t seem convinced. "Xena I want you to think about what’s going on. Ares cannot be trusted. Please be careful."

"Gabrielle, I appreciate your concern, but everything is fine. I’m Ok."

Gabrielle returned to her scroll and Ares reappeared at camp shortly after they lay down for bed. He took up his now usual residence on the other side of the fire, right in the eye line of Xena’s face.

XXXXXX

Ares arrived at his favorite temple in Thrace after leaving Xena. His heart was still racing and his erection was a painful reminder of the encounter. He sat on his throne and called for Nostra the chief priestess for this temple. She walked in eyes to the floor, and bowed before her god, slowly gazing up to find out what he wanted. Ares noted for the first time that Nostra had blue eyes and long dark hair. As he considered her he realized that all his chief priestesses shared these same attributes. It hadn’t always been so, but it was the case now. And as the chief priestess there were certain responsibilities she was expected to fulfill for him. Nostra considered Ares on the throne, looked at his eyes and knew exactly why he had visited. She stood removed her sleep robe, revealing her nakedness and approached so that she could be taken by him. She lived for these moments and she wondered if he might even stay the night with her. His "passion visits" as she called them came far too infrequently for her tastes. She moved in to kiss him and he hungrily devoured her mouth as he cupped her breasts.

In a flash they were both naked and sprawled out on the bed in the back room that was designed solely for this purpose. Each of his temples had such a bedroom, although he only slept on Olympus. None of his sexual encounters took place on Olympus, it was no secret that he could not stand the thought of someone else in his private sleeping quarters. He moved from her mouth down the slope of her neck. When he opened his eyes and saw all the dark hair he softly moaned the name Xena. He moved back to lay claim to her mouth again and froze. Yes this was a beautiful woman with dark hair and blue eyes, but she wasn’t Xena. She looked at him questioningly. He shook his head, it just wasn’t fair. Nostra would do anything he asked, become anything he asked and yet his heart didn’t ache for her. The woman he wanted had rejected him time and time again. He looked into Nostra’s beautiful face and his erection went away. He chuckled, most men would give everything they own to have someone like her in their bed. Nostra noticed Ares’ change in mood and especially that his erection was no longer there.

"Do I displease you Lord Ares?"

Ares shook his head, "No Nostra you are incredibly beautiful and you do please me very much, but it’s another that put me in this state and it is her that I want release from."

Nostra nodded "Xena huh?" Ares looked at her questioningly.

"You called her name a few moments ago."

Normally Ares would not have discussed such things with her, but he felt he owed her this much. "Yes, I was just with her."

Nostra genuinely cared for the god of war. "She doesn’t deserve you Lord."

Ares felt a flash of anger and he grabbed Nostra by the neck "Don’t you dare speak against the woman I love. You don’t even know her."

Nostra’s eyes were wide with shock, but not because of his physical reaction. He removed his hand from her neck.

"You love her?" asked Nostra with amazement.

He was surprised at his confession, ‘I guess there’s a down side to this spell.’ He nodded his head and admitted the truth

"Yeah I do. Not a word of this to anyone Nostra, or it will be your head. I’ll be back to check on the tributes soon."

With that he was gone in a flash and Nostra was left wondering if she would ever be taken by Ares again.

Ares appeared in camp and his traveling companions were already lying down to sleep. He laid down and gazed at Xena’s face and realized that he was much more content laying here in want than having his needs fulfilled by a pale comparison. Now that he had truly experienced a moment of passion with Xena he wondered if he could ever desire another woman again. If everything went as planned, he’d never have to find out.

XXX DAY 5 XXX

In the morning when Gabrielle woke she opened her eyes and was greeted with the sight of Xena and Ares sitting by the fire. She was no longer surprised by his presence, but she still didn’t like him being around. She got up and walked over to the fire.

"Good Morning" Started Xena.

Gabrielle yawned and replied unenthusiastically "Morning."

Xena handed her a cup of hot tea. Gabrielle began to drink, she looked over at the two of them and something wasn’t quite right, but she couldn’t put her finger on it. They were sitting and chatting, nothing strange there, and then she noticed it. Ares’ hand was resting on her knee. He was gently caressing the exposed flesh. Gabrielle waited for Xena to notice and push his hand away, but she never did. Instead her hand moved and rested on top of his, their fingers started to gently intertwine. Gabrielle started to cough uncontrollably as some of the tea went down the wrong pipe.

"Are you OK?" asked Xena, and Gabrielle just nodded.

The focus of Xena’s attention was on Gabrielle, but her hand never left Ares’. After breakfast they started to break camp. Gabrielle was still trying to absorb this new development in Xena and Ares’ relationship when she was surprised again. Xena was standing next to Argo, finishing up with her saddlebags when Gabrielle saw Ares walk up behind Xena. He reached around her and handed her a small item to put in the saddlebags. Once she had taken the item instead of him walking away he circled his arms around her waist. Again Gabrielle waited for Xena to push him away, but she didn’t. Instead she leaned into him. He gently moved her hair and planted a kiss on her neck. Gabrielle’s blood boiled. She picked up one of the pans and conveniently dropped it on a rock. As she hoped the loud sound reminded them there was someone else in the camp, and the two person huddle was broken up. Gabrielle was getting concerned now, the bond between Xena and Ares was strengthening and she wasn’t sure how to stop it.

XXXXXX

Later that day the trio stopped for lunch. Xena and Ares walked off to scout ahead as Gabrielle cleaned up the mess left from lunch.

"Xena, I want to show you something, someplace really."

She looked at him curiously. "And where would that be?"

He looked at the ground for a moment. "A place that I’ve never shared with anyone before. There’s a special place that I go sometimes..." Ares hesitated slightly before he finished his sentence "it’s on Olympus."

Xena cocked her head "I thought mortals couldn’t survive on Olympus?"

"They can for very short periods of time. But I’d like you to stay longer."

"I don’t understand, how can I…"

"Xena, I am offering you godhood." Xena started to shake her head. "Don’t worry. It’s temporary."

Her brows furrowed. "I’ve never heard of temporary godhood."

"We’ll, technically it’s not. But I can give you the power to take it away."

He held out one hand and swirled his fingers over it with the other. A beautiful gold link chain necklace appeared in his hand.

"With this, you could strip your power and return to the mortal world without my help. Once you’re a god all you would have to do is hold it in your hand and wish your godhood away."

Xena stood there considering his words. This was a very risky bargain. The events over the last few days had changed so much between them. She held the chain in her hand.

"Yes, I will go with you. Just let me tell Gabrielle."

Ares’ heart started pounding as he put the chain about her neck. This would be the moment of truth. If there was any way to make Xena stay, Gabrielle would find it. She had a way of taking Xena away from him, and he was afraid. Then he realized that if Gabrielle could talk Xena out of going then she really didn’t have her whole heart into going. He decided he wouldn’t try to manipulate the situation. He would go with Xena and they would speak with Gabrielle, if she changed her mind, so be it.

Xena and Ares entered the camp and Gabrielle knew something else had changed, she could smell it. Xena pursed her lips

"Gabrielle, I’m going off with Ares for a little while, but I’ll be back soon. Why don’t you take Argo and continue towards Thebes and we’ll meet you there."

Gabrielle cocked her head slightly. "Thebes is still 3 days ahead, your going to be gone that long?"

Xena just shrugged her shoulders "Maybe."

Gabrielle’s brow furrowed with suspicion. "Where are you going?"

Xena knew this question would come and she was dreading answering it. "Mt. Olympus. Ares is just going to show me around."

Gabrielle’s eyes went wild. "Olympus! Xena that’s insane. You can’t go there and stay 3 days. Only gods can…" Gabrielle’s voice trailed off and her eyes widened as she realized what her friend was doing. "Xena, are you a god?"

Xena smiled nervously, "No, not me. I’m not a god."

Ares moved from the fire to stand behind her and touched her shoulder.

"Not yet. Don’t worry Gabrielle, she can remove the mantle of godhood whenever she wants with the necklace around her neck. Although I hope she decides to stay. No matter what, we will meet you in Thebes."

Gabrielle shook her head "Xena you can’t do this. Think about it. You know how much you love power. Once you become a god I don’t think you’ll be able to just walk away from it. And then he’ll have you. You will have fallen into his trap."

Xena opened her mouth to respond, but Ares beat her to it. "Have you learned nothing over the last few days? I am not trying to trick her, I just want to share something with her. Gabrielle I truly love Xena and I may have done many things in my past which I regret, but I have never lied to her."

Gabrielle just shook her head and walked a few steps away. "Xena are you sure about this? It’s not too late to change your mind."

Xena looked at her "I’m sure. Yes. Don’t worry Gabrielle, I will see you soon."

Ares turned to face Xena. They stood looking into each other’s eyes for precious moments. Finally Ares opened his hand in front of Xena and there was a shiny red substance. Gabrielle had seen it twice before, she recognized Ambrosia when she saw it. Xena took it and slowly brought it to her lips. She paused for a second as if she were giving it one last thought. Both Ares and Gabrielle held their breath as they watched her. ‘Will she, or won’t she?’ they thought in unison. And suddenly it was gone; Xena popped it in her mouth so fast it was almost missed by both parties. Gabrielle saw her chew, close her eyes and lean forward, almost swooning. But Ares strong arms were there to brace her. There were swirls and flashes of light swirling around her and through her. The lights stopped after a moment and when Xena opened her eyes she looked around as if seeing the world for the first time. Finally her eyes settled on Ares, and then Gabrielle. Gabrielle always thought Xena was absolutely beautiful, but she found the change breathtaking. It was as if Xena glowed. Gabrielle was so in awe she felt tears start to form in her eyes. Xena moved to approach Gabrielle, but Ares stopped her.

"We need to get going. We’ll see you in Thebes Gabrielle."

And with that they disappeared. Gabrielle never moved from that spot, she just collapsed where she was into tears. At that moment she started to grieve the loss of her best friend.

XXXXXX

They stood at the very top of Olympus, on an outcropping of rocks that went high above the Olympian castle. The castle would have been built on this highest spot except for the fact that it was way too small. But it was large enough for a few flowers and shrubs to grow. Xena stood at the edge looking around. If you didn’t look down you’d swear there was no ground at all, nothing but the vast expanse of sky. The stars seemed so close, like you could almost touch them. Xena gasped at the beauty that surrounded her. Her eyes were wide as she looked around trying to take in everything, and Ares was looking at nothing but Xena. His heart felt light in his chest as he watched the wonder and awe in her face. Finally she turned to look at him.

"Ares this is incredible. Thank you for sharing it with me."

He placed an arm around her.

"I like to come here and think. No one else has ever bothered to come up here so I have the whole place to myself. Now it’s our place if you like. And, that’s not all. As a god your eyesight is much stronger than a mortals if you choose it to be. I want you to watch where my finger is pointing, focus your eyes on that point and think closer."

She looked at his finger and followed the point as he said. At first nothing happened, and then she saw light. The more she focused the closer the light got, as if she were moving towards it, but she knew her feet had never left the ground. Then she realized it was many lights in hues of blue, red, yellow and so many others just dancing over the sky. Her mouth opened and she sighed at the beauty of it.

"What is that?"

"It’s a light pattern that my cousin Aurora put together. She’s traveled far and wide and said there was nothing in the expanse in the north, so she made these lights and put them in the sky. She named it Borealis. I can stare at it for hours."

Xena closed her eyes and turned her head suddenly from the strain of exerting power. She was disoriented and dizzy. He waved his arm and they were inside the castle. He gently lay her down on the bed.

"You’ve been a god for less than a candle mark. You’re not up to full power yet. Sorry, I should have realized you’d need to take it easy. Just being on Olympus is draining if you’re weak."

She looked around "Where are we?"

Ares replied "My private chambers on Olympus. Don’t worry no one will bother you in here."

She looked at him and started to laugh. "I see. I’m in your private chambers, lying in your bed, weak and barely able to defend myself and you think I feel safe?"

Ares smiled slightly put his head down and chuckled. "You’ve got a point. But seriously, you don’t have to worry about anyone, especially me. I wouldn’t jeopardize your love."

Xena’s brow furrowed and she said with a slight smile "Who said I loved you?"

Although her tone held a playful tone Ares flinched. When Xena saw this, her expression changed to concern.

"I’m sorry Ares, I didn’t mean…"

Ares held up his hand and interrupted her. "Don’t worry about it Xena. Why don’t you just get some rest, and I promise neither myself, or any of the other gods will bother you."

With that he walked out into the main room. He gently closed the door behind him. He turned and stood in front of the closed door for a few moments, longing to be near her. He gently placed a hand on the door and whispered

"I love you Xena. Even if you never love me back, I pledge my love to you. I pledge my heart and life to you until the end of time."

He sighed deeply and decided to occupy himself by walking around Olympus to see if anything interesting happened in his absence.

Xena lay back looking at the door. She felt bad for having hurt Ares. She didn’t mean to hurt him, it was just a joke. She sensed he was still near. She closed her eyes focused on him and to her surprise she heard him whisper a pledge of love to her. Obviously he thought she couldn’t hear him, and the sentiment warmed her heart. Finally she let the last wall around her heart down and allowed her feelings to flow freely. She was starting to love him back. Then the newness of her godhood took over and she fell back into the deepest sleep she’d ever known.

XXX DAY 6 XXX

In the morning Xena opened her eyes. She looked around, getting familiar with her surroundings and found Ares lying on a couch near the bed. He was propped up on his elbow, waiting for her to wake.

"Good Morning Ares."

He smiled slightly, "Yes it is a good morning."

He arose and walked over to her. He stood over her just taking in the sight of her lying in his bed. He knelt down next to her and ran his finger along her cheek "so beautiful" he whispered. Then he shook his head as if he were coming out of a trance and stood turning away from her. She was here with him on Olympus, but no commitment had been made and she could reject him and leave at any time. He couldn’t bear the thought of the emptiness that would follow. He put the thought out of his head and decided to enjoy her company while it lasted.

XXXXXX

Xena was again awed by the sights on Olympus. As she walked the halls with him she was amazed at how different the place was. She had seen Hades’ two headed dog Cerebus when she was in Tartarus, but she never realized they were commonplace on Olympus. A golden three headed dog came running up to them and jumped up onto Ares’ leg to be petted. He patted the dog on all three heads without a second thought.

"Feti, say hello to my friend Xena."

The dog jumped down and turned its attention towards the dark haired woman. The dog approached her cautiously and each head sniffed her. When she passed the test the dog jumped on her leg. She reached out a hand and quickly drew it back when Feti said

"Hello".

The Warrior Princess was speechless.

"Don’t worry Xena, Feti’s harmless."

She finally reached her hand down and began to pet the dog’s heads.

"I’m sure he is, I’ve just never seen a talking dog before."

Ares smiled, "He can only speak a few words, but don’t let that food you, he’s smart as a whip. But our tour has just begun." Ares turned to the dog "We have to get going Feti. See you later."

Feti jumped down and continued down the hall. One of his heads turned back and said "Bye" as he continued down the hall.

Even in the grandest castle Xena had never seen halls and pillars as large as here on Olympus. She learned that only the major gods actually had full chambers here and the lesser had to make use of smaller guest rooms. The most insignificant spent most of their time back in Greece. She was surprised to find mortal servants. These individuals had been allowed less than a drop of Ambrosia, enough to allow them to live in this realm for long periods, but not enough to give them any sort of power.

"Ares, why didn’t you just give me a drop of Ambrosia as these other mortals? Why did you make me a god?"

"You can see the difference in them and us, right?" She considered the servant girl who had just passed them.

"I noticed that there is a glow about the gods that the mortals do not possess." Xena looked down at her hands and admired the golden aura that seemed to surround her.

"Quite right, and if I brought you here in that state everyone would see you as a servant. I want you to be with me and thought you should meet the other gods as an equal."

She nodded her head in agreement with his statement and they continued to stroll down the long halls. Xena already knew a couple of the gods, but along the way Ares introduced her to those they ran into. They were all curious about her, wanted to know who this woman was who had captured Ares’ attention and affections. She was surprised that they all seemed genuinely glad to meet her, with a few exceptions of course. Most notably was a short dark haired girl decked in black leather. At first glance Xena thought she might be a kindred sprit, a warrior, perhaps Artemis. But she could feel the god’s loathing from a distance. Her meeting with Discord was brief and tension filled, but polite.

They walked into a huge room that could fit a small village and a ceiling so high it almost seemed like they were outside. This was the finest of all the rooms with gold walls and fine gems fitted into the moldings. They were walking up the middle on a luxurious purple carpet inlaid with an intricate gold pattern. At the far end of the room were two thrones which were on a platform circumferenced on all sides by stairs.

"Those are my parent’s chairs."

"Is this the throne room?"

"Yes, mortals would call it a throne room; we call it the great hall. On the rare occasions that all the gods are called together to meet, we come to this room. We’ve also had parties and other grand events here. Just two seasons ago Cupid and Persephone were married here."

When they reached the front of the room near the chairs Xena sat down half way up the steps and looked around. Ares sat down next to her.

"Hungry?"

She considered it a moment and replied "Yes actually I am. But I thought I felt that way because I’m a new god. I didn’t realize gods needed to eat."

"Not as mortals do, but we still do require food and sleep periodically."

He opened his hand a produced a golden fruit. She took the fruit from him and looked at it. It was so beautiful, it seemed a shame to eat it.

"Go ahead, it’s ok."

Xena took a bite, the fruit was sweet and juicy. It was nothing like she’d ever had back in Greece. There was a flash of light and an older stately man appeared with very long white and gray hair. He wore long beautiful robes inlaid with gold.

"Father"

Ares said as she stood up. Xena moved to follow suit, but Zeus motioned for her to stay where she was.

"You look quite comfy, I think I’ll join you."

Zeus walked up a few stairs and sat next to Xena. Ares looked apprehensive.

"Welcome my dear. It is my honor to finally meet you." He smiled at Xena and she returned the gesture.

"Thank you. Ares is giving me a grand tour of your home."

"And how do you find it dear?"

"It’s impressive."

Zeus looked over at his son and took note of the difference in his appearance. He was still dressed in his usual black leather, but his boots and sword were polished. Although he never looked sloppy or disheveled, Zeus noted that he took extra care in his appearance today. Zeus noted that Ares had even shined his earring.

"How are you Ares? I’ve not spoken with you in a while."

Instead of the curt blow-off or snide remark that he usually got from his pretentious son, Ares replied

"I’m well Father. I’ve not been around much lately tending to my duties."

Zeus nodded, as he returned his attention back to Xena. As he opened his mouth there was another flash and Hera appeared.

"Mother" said Ares as he embraced his mother lovingly.

Xena smirked; she never knew Ares was a momma’s boy. She was just as stately looking as her husband. Xena was wearier of her than Zeus; Hera had done so much to hurt mankind, not to mention killing Hercules’ entire family. She’d heard that Hera had mellowed since being released from the abyss, but she still would not let her guard down. Xena noticed the color of her eyes, a blue that was so light her eyes almost glowed. Hera nodded to her husband and turned her eyes to Xena.

"So this is the one who has stolen my son’s heart."

She walked over to Xena and slowly traced a finger along the warrior’s jaw. Ares was surprised, and relieved that Xena sat still for the inspection.

"You are very beautiful. I’ve watched some of your exploits since my son took an interest in you. You are a very capable woman, strong and independent. I like that."

Ares eyes bulged slightly at what he knew was high praise from his mother.

"So much goes on around here I didn’t know you were present until Cupid mentioned he saw you walking the halls. Perhaps you and I could spend some time together, have a woman to woman chat. Tell me Xena which guest room did you sleep in?"

Xena recognized prying when she saw it, and decided she wasn’t going to humor the Queen of the gods.

"I will sleep in the same room I slept in last night."

Ares stepped forward "She slept in my bed last night. I slept on the couch."

Zeus and Hera both looked at each with astonishment. It was well known that Ares didn’t let anyone in his bedroom, much less in his bed. Xena was trying to understand their surprise. Everything she’d heard about the Olympians led her to believe they were very free about sexual situations. Ares seized the moment to break up this little chat.

"Father. Mother. Xena has a lot left to see, we should be going. He reached up, took her hand and they were gone in a flash.

Hera turned to her husband "He is truly in love with her." Zeus nodded "Yes, he is."

"There is a strength about her, she may be the one we’ve been waiting for."

Zeus sat and considered her words carefully. "You may be right, my wife."

XXXXXX

The balance of the tour took the rest of the day. When they arrived back at his chambers Xena sat down in the outer room on the couch.

"I hate to admit it, but Olympus is amazing."

"See, I told you you’d enjoy it."

Ares sat down next to her leaned over and kissed her. She smiled at him and looked into his eyes adoringly. She took in his beautiful soft brown eyes and saw her feelings reflected back to her. She enjoyed being able to gaze at him and appreciate him without having to watch herself, or feel self-conscious. She wanted to be nearer to him, she moved her body until she straddled him. He still sat facing forward, arms at his side, his head tilted back slightly to look at her. He didn’t touch her because he still wasn’t sure how to read her. She raised her hand to his face and slowly explored his features with her fingertips. She gently ran her fingers over his eyes, down the sides of his face, across to his nose and finally she traced his lips. Ares kissed at the fingers as they passed over his lips. She moved in and put her hands in his dark lochs and kissed him with abandon. His arms encircled her waist and pulled her to him. She still wasn’t satisfied with the amount of contact between them. She broke their kiss, leaned back and removed her armor. Once free of the metal barrier she dove back into the kiss. Ares moved his kisses from her lips and began to explore the crook of her neck. Gabrielle’s words of warning rang out in her head. Her own vow against him had a place there too; however the weight of her desires won out. At this moment she didn’t care what happened in the past, she just knew she wanted to be with him in the very near future. In spite of everything that had happened, it just felt right. Their passion mounted. With their arms around each other they tentatively explored each other as they had that night in the woods. She exhaled a deep sigh that was filled with mounting desire. He gently licked the soft exposed flesh on her neck, her pulse was rising, her breath quickening… gods how he wanted her. She leaned her head down and licked his ear. She breathlessly whispered into his ear

"I want you."

After she pulled back Ares looked at her seriously "What is your desire?"

She stared back at him with just as much seriousness "I want you to touch me."

Ares nodded his head. "Where?"

Xena leaned in seductively, her voice was low and husky "Everywhere! I want to make love Ares."

Ares eyes closed, the depth of her statement filling his being. Somehow they made it into his bedroom, with a trail of clothing marking their path. Soon they were both naked and exploring each other, giving and receiving absolute pleasure. After hours of exploring and discovering each other Ares finally entered her sex. Once inside everything stopped, no further movements were made. They lay there very still, starring into each other’s eyes for long moments before they continued to consummate their relationship. It was a perfect connection of their physical bodies, minds and souls. They each had had many sexual partners over the course of their lives; Xena in the tens and Ares in the thousands, yet neither had ever felt what they experienced with each other at this moment. Ares looked into Xena’s eyes and he understood her, it was like he could feel her in his mind. He was about to ask if she felt the same when she nodded her head. Then he started to utter ‘can you read my mind?’ when she nodded again. Then he heard her wonder if this is the way it is for all gods when they have sex and Ares shook his head no. They both chuckled and kissed as they continued the sexual act. When they physically separated they were no longer able to read each others minds, but there was still a deep soul connection. As they lay in each others arms Ares gently stroked Xena’s cheek.

"I feel like this is a dream. You can’t imagine how happy I am right now Xena. I love you."

Xena looked at him and smiled "I love you too Ares." Xena’s confession of love went through the core of Ares’ being. His eyes became misty, he took her in his arms and buried his face in her hair. Ares had lived for thousands of years, yet he never felt more alive, and more complete than at this moment. He opened his mouth to proclaim all the love he would continue to show her through eternity, then his cheek brushed against the necklace. Although she confessed she loved him, she still hadn’t made any promises concerning their future. He held back his proclamation and decided to just enjoy the moment. No matter what happened later, he was with her now. They made love again, and fell asleep in each other’s arms.

XXX DAY 7 XXX

Xena woke early the next morning. She looked around, feeling the power of godhood surge through her. It was like an energy coursing through every fiber of her being. Part of her wanted to stay in bed and snuggle with Ares, but she had too much energy. Normally she’d bathe at this time, but when she looked at herself she realized she was clean. Another advantage of being a god she supposed. She decided to go exploring instead. She turned to his still sleeping form and started to wake him and let him know she was leaving, but decided against it. He looked so peaceful. She put on her clothes which were laying strewn all around Ares’ bed chamber. She decided to take a walk in the garden, she headed for the door then thought better of it and tried to teleport herself to the gardens. She ended up there in just a flash. It was a new experience for her, and slightly unsettling. Each time before she’d teleported with Ares, and she noted it was a very different experience to teleport by herself. She tensed as she sensed someone was approaching her. She looked around and Aphrodite appeared in a flash.

"Good morning" Aphrodite said with a wicked grin on her face. "I take it you didn’t sleep much last night?" Xena just gave her a sneer.

"Aw come on warrior babe, it was just a joke."

Xena’s expression eased. "Very good. Your training will be much easier if we are on good terms."

"What training?"

"Your god training. Like, duh! How dense can you be?"

"My training? Why do I need to be trained?" Xena raised her arm and a bolt of energy shot out going high into the sky before it dissipated. "When Callisto and Velasca became gods I didn’t see anyone train them."

"Yes you are quite right. We would never waste time on them. You see Xena, any mortal can eat ambrosia and become a god, but only those who are accepted by the Olympians are trained to use their powers to the fullest. I know you saw them throwing power bolts like you just did, but that’s only the tip of what you can do. And you will never discover a fraction of your power unless you are properly trained. For example, Callisto told you once that she couldn’t be in two places at once, but you can if you know how. Like, she never knew because no one would have anything to do with that mongrel. Anyhoo, this is so exciting, the last one we adopted into our family was Persephone, and even then no one wanted…"

Xena put her hands "Whoa, whoa. Wait just a minute; I never agreed to keep this godhood. I can change back anytime right?" Xena touched her necklace.

"Well, yes you can, but I was hoping you would stick around. Everyone is so excited; well I should say that most are so excited. That toad Discord seems to be the only one having issues right now because you have Ares’ heart and his loyalty. You know, Ares has been with many, including some of the other gods, but you’re the first ever in his own bed." Xena’s eyebrow raised slightly. "But that’s another story, Artemis and Athena can’t wait to show you the ropes, as well as Hades and a few others. And here’s the best, even Zeus and Hera want a hand in your training because they think you’re a good influence on Ares. Between us all, you will know the full extent of your powers."

"Alright. We can start training, but I’m still not agreed as to whether I will remain a god."

Aphrodite nodded her head "Ok blue eyes. Agreed."

"So when do we begin the training?"

"Right now." And Aphrodite lifted her hands and a book appeared in them. "Come on, let’s go sit over there and we can start with this guide to control and manipulation of the elements."

XXXXXX

Aphrodite and Xena were walking through the gardens discussing the first chapter of the book when they heard Ares scream. It was an earth shattering howl that was filled with pain. Xena started to run towards the castle, but Aphrodite grabbed her arm.

"Stop thinking like a mortal Xena."

Xena and Aphrodite appeared in the outer room of Ares chambers. Faint whimpering sounds could be heard from the bedroom. They took off for the room and entered. Ares sat there in the bed clutching a pillow to his chest and rocking back and forth. His mind was so much in another world that he never heard them enter.

"Ares what’s happened?" Xena asked. Her faced was filled with concern.

He looked up and his face reflected astonishment. "Xena? Is that really you?" He asked as he left the bed and cautiously headed towards her.

"Yes, it’s me."

"You’re still here? I thought you left me."

"No, I was in the gardens with Aphrodite."

By this time Ares was within arms reach of her, and he slowly extended his hand and gently touched her face.

"You’re still here. So many nights I dreamed we were together and when I would wake up…" Then Ares got a strange look on his face. "Xena, Did you spend the night here?" she nodded.

"With me? In this bed?" Xena nodded.

"Did we make love?" Xena smiled slightly and nodded. He sighed with relief and whispered to himself "It wasn’t a dream." Her eyes became slightly glassy as she realized the toll that her games had taken on his mind. So many times she promised herself to him in one way or another, and always she found a way around it. Her heart ached now, seeing this reaction in him.

"Did you… Did you tell me you loved me?" This time Xena extended her hand to touch him as well. She gently placed it on his chest and his eyes moved to where he felt her against his skin.

"Yes Ares, I told you I loved you." She stepped closer and looked him solidly in the eyes to make sure there was no misunderstandings

"I love you Ares."

Then she planted a small kiss on his lips. He closed his eyes and his face contorted in a wave of relief and desire. His lips were slightly parted and when he opened his eyes there was nothing there but love. Xena leaned in again.

"I love you Ares."

This time she leaned in for a longer kiss, then the couple just stood there embracing each other. Ares held Xena so tightly Aphrodite was glad she was a god. He might have broken a rib or two if she were still mortal. They nestled against each other and Aphrodite was completely overcome with the love that emanated from them. She basked in their love, it felt better to her than the worship she received from the mortals. Aphrodite hugged herself and sighed. As much as she wanted to stay and soak up the love, she knew she needed to give them some privacy.

"Dite" Ares called as she was about to leave. "I need a favor".

She smiled "Anything Bro."

He untangled himself from Xena and approached Aphrodite. He still held her hand in his, not willing to break their physical connection.

"The spell that you put on me, can you make it permanent?"

Aphrodite looked down for a moment and shook her head slightly, but not for the reasons Ares thought.

"Don’t worry it’s permanent."

Ares looked confused for a second and realized that his sister must have botched the spell making it permanent from the beginning. Aphrodite looked up, and tears streamed down her eyes.

"Bro… I couldn’t come up with a spell that had the effect I wanted. So, I made the whole thing up. When you thought you couldn’t hide your feelings you let them show freely. You can be as open and loving and sincere as you’ve been for the past few days forever. It’s your choice; it’s within your own power."

Ares was astonished; he reached out and hugged his Sister. "Thank you."

The couple turned their attentions back to each other.

Ares looked into Xena’s eyes "I love you Xena, will you stay with me?" Xena smiled removed her necklace and handed it to Ares

"Yes, Ares my love. I will stay with you till the end of time." As the couple was involved in yet another passionate kiss Aphrodite raised her hands and exited, knowing that her work here was done.

Fin – January 2003

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