Disclaimer: I do not own Xena: Warrior Princess or any of it's characters. They belong soley to the creators: John Schulian and Robert Tapert. I make no money from the writing or posting of this fan fiction.
Winter Storm
The morning had started out so crisp and beautiful, who would have guessed it would turn so ugly? The snow had started around noon and by three you couldn't see three feet in front of you. Gabrielle was worried about where they would sleep but trusted Xena to keep them safe. The mountains where a very hard place to spend the winter storm, but Xena seemed to know where she was going.
Two hours later... Gabrielle couldn't keep quiet any longer.
"God my feet hurt, how much further do we have to go? Xena; are we lost?"
"Yeah we're lost, but I could've sworn there was a cave around here some where."
Xena was chuckling under her breath and peeking at Gabby from under her hood. They had stopped when Gabrielle started talking. Little did Gabby know but they were standing outside the cave entrance. Xena took pity on the cold girl and grasping her arm led her inside.
"When I was a war lord my army used to camp here, we took refuge in these caves from Cesaer. There should be everything we need. Except food."
"We have everything but what we need most! Food and water seem to be pretty important. Light would be good too."
Xena stops suddenly, and reaching into her knapsack she pulls out flint and steel to light a torch. When they reach the end of the tunnel Xena reaches around the corner and lights two torches.
"We should be comfortable here. What do you think?" Xena turns to Gabrielle and flings her arm out in front of her.
"Well... umm... this is... yeah. This will work great!" Gabrielle looked around the room with a questioning look on her face. She turned quickly towards Xena as she heard an all too familiar chuckle. "What?"
"Don't worry Gabrielle this is just the stables. Argo will be really comfortable here. I have many other surprises to show you. You're going to love this place!" Xena led Argo to his bed and fed him as she spoke.
As Xena took care of Argo, Gabrielle looked around and found a large skin she could use to cover Argo. 'I have to win points with that horse somehow.'
Xena watched Gabrielle cover Argo with a smile. Xena walked over towards the wall and lit the torch hanging there. Pushing aside the curtain she motions for Gabrielle to follow her. Behind the curtain was a large room with two fire pits. Around one of the fire pits there were pillows and furs. It is to this fire pit Xena leads Gabrielle and begins laying a fire.
Gabrielle starts unloading the knapsacks, laying out dry clothes for both of them. The sooner they changed the warmer they would be. Xena had a roaring fire going in the main fire pit so she moved to the cooking pit.
"Why do we need two fire's going? Seems like a waist of wood." Gabrielle couldn't understand the point of having two fires. When one was all they normally had.
"Well if you give me two seconds I will show you why." She grabs a torch and starts around the room, lighting all the wall torches along the way. Soon Gabrielle sees just how large the room really is.
"Two fires is the only way to warm this room up. I just want to make sure that we are warm through this storm. Toss me a pot; we are going to need some water." Xena makes her catch and heads for the outside.
Gabrielle starts going through their food supply. She finds all the ingredients for a rabbit stew and moves to the cook fire and begins dinner.
Xena was outside putting snow into the pot, she was thinking of all the wonderful surprises she could show to Gabrielle. In the cave and otherwise. I wonder if I should show the hot springs first or the bed room. Who am I kidding...I don't even know if she feels the same way about me. I wish I could just tell her how I really feel. When I am with her she makes me feel like I am unstoppable. I want to spend the rest of my life with her, and when I say I love you she takes it as a friendship way. I want to tell her I love her while we are making love. I want to wake up each morning with her in my arms. But I feel I have to keep it under wraps because I don't know how she will react. Oh crap this pot is full already! Xena heads back in but stops to pet Argo.
Gabrielle sets stirring the pot of stew meat and wondering what was taking Xena so long with that water. There was some tension between them and Gabrielle felt really guilty about it. She knew that her feelings for Xena were the cause of it. If only I could tell her how I really feel about her as a woman then I know that the tension could be dealt with. Xena might even think I am mad at her or something. I have to do something...but what? I know what happens when we have wedges between us. Things can't go on like this. Ok, after dinner I will have to find a way to let her know that I love her and want to be with her only for the rest of our lives. Maybe I could write something for her...I'll figure it out later. Gabrielle added some spices to the meat and looked to the door for Xena. Gabrielle started feeling flutters of excitement as she heard Xena coming back in from the stable.
Xena looked around for Gabrielle and saw her at the cooking pit. "Here is the snow for you. If you need more snow just let me know." She handed over the pot and started to move away again when Gabrielle touched her hand. Xena drew in a quick breath and looked at her soul mate.
"We are going to need a lot more. I am going to find more containers and we can go get it together." Gabrielle said as she got up and grabbed another container from the shelf. Xena was a little worried about that in take of breath. She wondered if Gabrielle had suspected anything. Xena walked over to the shelf and grabbed two more containers, "We will probably need these, do you think two will be enough?"
"For now, I don't think we will run out of snow any time soon. The way it was coming down we may be here for quite some time." Gabrielle takes the lead outside and Xena happily follows behind.
The two women worked side by side to make things comfortable for the evening to come...After which Xena went to check on Argo again.
"This is great stew! I don't know how you do it but you are the best cook I know. Thank you." Xena leaned back on her skins and just took in the beauty in front of her. Now that dinner was done Xena was feeling very nervous about talking to Gabrielle. This is ridiculous, she is my best friend and there is nothing I can't talk to her about so why is this making me feel so weird? I have got to get a grip or she is going to notice that something is not quite right between us. The tension in here is so thick you could cut it with a knife. That is a strange look she is giving me. I wonder what she is thinking. Gabrielle nods her head in acknowledgement of the compliment Xena has given to her and sits back to enjoy the way the fire made Xena's skin glow. The vast room had finally gotten cozy and it was extremely warm next to the fire. Gabrielle leaned up and shrugged out of a couple of layers of skins so she wouldn't over heat. She was completely unconscious of the sexy way she moved. I have to get comfortable and then I will start a conversation that I can bring around to my feelings. Xena is my best friend and I have to believe that she is not ever going to hurt me. Even if what I am going to tell her goes against everything she believes. I just hope that when this talk is over we are both smiling and happy. Xena started to get up and move across the room but Gabrielle asked her to stay so they could talk. "Well...what do we need to talk about?" Xena asked nervously as she plopped back down on her furs. "I have been noticing some tension lately and thought it was better to clear the air now instead of just letting it go." Gabrielle looked across at her friend and took a deep breath. Xena watched her drag in air and enjoyed the way her breasts pushed out for all to see. "Ok, Gabrielle talk away." "I have a confession to make and it is really hard for me to say so just give me a few seconds to gather my thoughts." She drew in another breath. Xena grinned and said," Take all the time you need." Gabrielle folded her hands into her lap and leaned towards Xena just a little bit. "The tension is my fault and I can't let it just keep getting worse and have you think that it is your fault. I have these feelings that keep growing and I have to share them with you. If I keep them to myself then things are going to go from bad to worse. For the last year these feelings have been getting stronger and now it is time to fish or cut bait." Gabrielle smiled at Xena and got a big grin back. That woman and her fishing! "I want to start by saying that you are the best friend in the whole world and I wouldn't know what I would do without you. Ok...I'll stop stalling. I am in love with you Xena. I want to be you're everything as you are to me. I want to spend the rest of my life showing you just how much I love you. I want to wake up next to you every morning and go to sleep in your arms every night. I guess the reason I brought this all up was to see if you could ever feel the same about me. I need to know if you want me here with you or if you need me to be apart from you." Gabrielle finished and lowered her head and waited for Xena's reaction. There was nothing but the sound of the fire crackling and popping. Gabrielle was afraid to look up and just waited. Xena silently crossed the room and stood next to Gabrielle and waited for her to look up. When she didn't Xena reached her hand down so Gabrielle could see it. Gabrielle looked up nervously and took the hand offered her. Xena pulled the scared woman up and started moving away from the fire. Gabrielle caught a look at Xena's face before she turned and saw the most curious smile. Xena didn't look upset or mad so where was her friend taking her. Gabrielle decided to keep quiet and just see what came next. Xena led Gabrielle to another passage hidden in the wall. She took her through the tunnel until they came to a room that was really chilly and damp. Xena took Gabrielle to a bench and sat her down." Wait here for just a second." Xena went around the room lighting torches that were housed in the wall. The room glowed in reds and blues. The waterfall was luminescent and sparkling like diamonds. Gabrielle was speechless the beauty of the room just captivated her. Xena crossed the room and sat down next to the blonde. She gently picked up her hand and held it to her lap. "This room is a fresh water spring. Everything we need is in this cave. We are going to be here for quite sometime. So make your self at home." Gabrielle still didn't get a comment or even a reaction to what she had said to her. "Xena this is a beautiful place and I am glad you shared it with me. But what about what I shared with you?" Xena took in a deep breath and relaxed her nerves. She needed to tell Gabrielle how she felt. "Gabrielle this is just as hard for me as it was for you... I have spent the past couple of years trying to hide my true feelings for you. I have never been able to tell you for fear of loosing you. But I think now is the perfect time to not only tell you but show you along the way. I do need you here with me." Xena wanted to tell Gabrielle everything and she was going to. She just wanted to do it in a way that Gabrielle would always remember. Xena got up from the bench and again reached for Gabrielle's hand to lead her to the next room and more sharing. They turned left out of the spring room and moved down the passage to the next room. Xena lighted wall torches as they went and Gabrielle marveled at the vastness of the cave Xena had brought her to. The room they entered was slightly larger than the spring room and a bit stuffy. Xena made it better with the light then she turned to Gabrielle and took her hand again. "This is the Armory and food supply area. We still have a lot of the food here in crates. I'll just need to go out and hunt for fresh meat once in a while. I have spent a long time now making sure that you are taken care of. Not because I had to but because I wanted too. See, you are my best friend too. Not just my best friend but more, my feelings run deeper than you know." Xena turned to the door and leading Gabrielle by the hand, headed back down the hall. At the end she turned left, and as she walked she lit more torches. When they got to the end of the long passage the heat was the first thing that struck Gabrielle. "A hot springs! Oh this is heaven, a real bath after a week without one." Gabrielle turned and looked at Xena. Xena pushed Gabrielle down onto a bench and knelt in front of her. "I wanted to show you this close to the end. I have been in love with you Gabrielle for a year now. I wanted to wash away sins of the past and start anew. I want us to have a fresh start as a couple. I love you more than anything else in this world Gabrielle." Gabrielle had tears streaming down her face after hearing what she had wanted to hear for a year now. Xena gently brought her hand up and rubbed away the tears. "I never knew you were so romantic?" Gabrielle said between sniffles. "There are a lot of things you don't know about me. But in this cave you will get to see and hear all of them." Xena said with a devilish smile on her face. "Xena, what have you got planned exactly?" Gabrielle smiled and trailed her fingers through the water. "This water is so warm, it's heavenly." Xena pulled Gabrielle up and gently started to disrobe her. "You will see soon enough. Just enjoy!" Xena finished removing Gabrielle's clothes and gently picked her love up and after a sweet kiss on her nose tossed her into the hot spring. As Gabrielle tried to find the surface Xena laughingly started to undress herself. She couldn't wait any longer to join her friend. By the time Gabrielle broke through the surface of the water Xena was standing on the ledge of the pool gloriously naked. "By the gods: Xena! You are beautiful beyond words. Join me, my love." Gabrielle held out her hand to Xena and unconsciously moistened her lips. With a grin and a quick step Xena was beside her love. "You have no idea how nervous I am Xena. I want our life together to be perfect. Things are going to be so different for us now." Gabrielle gazed at her best friend closely to get her reaction. "You worry too much about things that we will deal with as they come. Just relax and enjoy this time we have together. In this place we are safe and warm and alone with our love. Nothing can harm us or intrude. Let the future take care of itself." Xena rubbed the blondes' shoulders and pulled her back against her cradling chest. Gabrielle gasped and jerk at the contact. It was starting to get very warm in the bath. Her hands moved on Xena's legs and she gently rubbed the thigh and then the calf muscles. Xena was all but purring as she felt the touch she had waited for so long. Reaching into a hidden shelf, Xena pulled out bath oils and scented soaps. Xena wanted to make this first bath as lovers memorable for Gabrielle. With tenderness and just a bit of flirting she began washing Gabrielle's arms and shoulders. As she washed the underside of her arm she grazed the side of Gabrielle's breast and the blonde sucked in huge amounts of air, as she jerked in her seat. Gabrielle's head fell back on Xena's shoulder and she arched her breasts into the air. "Patience my love, all in good time." Xena soothed. I have waited so long and she is telling me to have patience. By the gods I don't think I can. I want to hold her and love her and she is tormenting me with half caresses and teasing. I know how to move this along. Now, to see if she can take what she dishes out and then some. Gabrielle pushes her body back against Xena and gives a small wiggle. She is gratified to hear the gasp that follows her move and tries more. She slowly and gently shakes her shoulders and rubs her back against Xena's breasts. The moan this move drew was wonderful until Xena grasped her shoulders and stilled her movements. "No fair, Xena. This is about the two of us. I want to touch you just as much as you want to touch me. Let me love you." Gabrielle looked at Xena pleadingly over her shoulder. "Gabrielle, I wanted to make this perfect and a bath is not the place I wanted to make love to you for the first time." Xena smiled and placed a sweet kiss on her shoulder. "Fine, then lets finish washing and go back to the fireside. Xena, I want you and I don't think I can wait any longer." Gabrielle begged. Xena handed over the wash cloth and soap. She washed herself and then watched as Gabrielle finished up. The water glistening on Gabrielle's body was driving her to distraction. As Xena watched a single drop of water follow the path she wanted to kiss and lick down Gabrielle's breast it became too much to bare. Xena jumped out of the water and grabbed two towels. Gabrielle was so glad her plan had worked. Taking much longer to bath had given Xena time to look and imagine the night ahead. She was just as anxious to start their loving time as Gabrielle was. Xena was standing next to the pool waiting to help Gabrielle out. The towel was wrapped around her and so were Xena's arms. The two women gazed into each others eyes and Xena gently placed her lips over Gabrielle's. The kiss was sweet and gentle and full of love. Gabrielle met her love with all of that and then couldn't help herself. She deepened the kiss and darted her tongue out to quickly taste Xena's lips. Xena moaned deep in her throat and pulled Gabrielle closer. The kiss grew hotter and hotter until both women were ready to drop right there and make love. Xena pulled back and tried to calm things down a little. "Baby, slow down and give me time to make us both comfortable. There is something else I have to show you." Xena moved away from her love and walked to the wall. Pushing in two stones in the wall, a sound like rushing air could be heard and then the grating of a stone door opening. "Follow me." Xena reached out her hand and Gabrielle grasped it and followed. Walking down a short passageway they came to a large opening. Xena moved ahead and lit wall torches as Gabrielle stood in the middle of the room. A beautiful bedroom was revealed and Gabrielle giggled. "How is it so warm in here?" She asked. "There is a natural vent between these rooms so that the hot springs warms most of the cave. Do you approve?" Xena moved up next to Gabrielle and wrapped her arms around the blonde's waist. "It is the most beautiful room I have ever been in. Xena, did you do this yourself?" Gabrielle sank into the embrace and asked. "Yes, and don't sound so surprised either." Xena bumped her hip against Gabrielle's and smiled. "There are a couple of things I want to show you. Over here is the dresser so you can finally unpack all of your things and have a place for them. Now, across here is the clothes closet. There are plenty of garments for us both. But for now..." Xena reached over and pulled the towel off of Gabrielle and dropped her own as well. With no further words she showed Gabrielle that clothes were not going to be needed any time soon. Xena placed gentle kisses on Gabrielle's eyes and moved slowly to her lips. Xena wanted to cherish this time as she loved her soul mate. Gabrielle was just as intent on cherishing the time but she was more practical about it. She had been waiting for this time for so long that she couldn't go slowly any longer. Xena, you are in for a surprise. You take the lead in everything so now I am going to show you that there is one place where we will share the lead. Gabrielle mused and then put thought to action. Peeking over Xena's shoulder and turning them both so she could move correctly, Gabrielle carefully maneuvered them toward the bed. When Xena's knees hit the side of the bed Gabrielle kept the pressure up so that they tumbled onto the mattress without breaking a part. It had been a perfect move but Gabrielle couldn't help the fit of giggles that took hold of her. Xena had given such a start of surprise that laughter was a given to follow. "Gabrielle, what are you laughing about? I am trying to make sweet love to you and you are giggling all over the place." Xena tried for a stern voice but couldn't quite pull it off with the smile stretching her face from ear to ear. "You were doing the best job but I wanted to take control and moved us to the bed. When we hit you started and it struck me as funny. Xena, I am just so happy that I can't help it." Gabrielle forced out as she tried desperately to breathe and stop laughing. "You wanted to take control?" Xena's eyes glazed over as the possibilities floated across her minds eye. She was awash in tingles at the thought of what Gabrielle would do with that control. "What exactly did you have in mind, my love?" Xena stretched out fully on the bed and looked at Gabrielle with heat and passion burning in her eyes. Gabrielle was lost in the beauty laid out like a bountiful buffet in front of her. She didn't know where to begin. They had bathed together many times in the past but to be allowed to gaze at Xena with out fear of reprisals was a gift she wasn't used to. Gabrielle was just looking her fill when she noticed the blush that was moving from Xena's breasts up her neck to fill her cheeks with roses. Testing a theory, Gabrielle reached out and brushed her index finger whisper soft across Xena's collarbone. A soft sigh was drawn from Xena and Gabrielle was encouraged to keep exploring. "Xena, raise your arms and hold them over your head. I just want to touch you for a while. Okay?" Gabrielle looked at her willing audience and gave a nervous grin. Xena complied without words. She was feeling so hot and excited that she wasn't sure how long this little experiment was going to last. Xena felt that if Gabrielle didn't touch her soon she was going to loose her mind. Xena rocked her upper body gently a couple of times to draw Gabrielle's attention to her breasts so that she would maybe get started. Gabrielle was thinking similar things herself. She couldn't wait any longer and going slow was not going to happen either. She just didn't want Xena to be freaked out when she did what she was planning. I want to straddle her and rain kisses all over her breasts and neck and face. Ok flip that and I have a plan. Cowards never get anywhere so here goes... Gabrielle swung her leg over Xena and settled down pelvic to pelvic and tightened her legs as Xena jumped. Gabrielle didn't wait for more she just leaned in and placed a passionate kiss on Xena's lips. Both hands holding her head in place Gabrielle gently brushed her breasts back and forth across the erect nipples she had been staring at for so long. Licking Xena's lips to gain entry Gabrielle deepened the kiss and moved one hand to lightly stroke Xena's neck below her ear. Xena was so flooded with sensation that she was having a hard time concentrating. She needed something to hold on to so she reached down and caressed Gabrielle's back gently. Xena knew that the tender touch would enflame Gabrielle. She had learned much in all the years they had been together. Xena ran her finger's lightly up her sides and grazed her breasts. Gabrielle bucked and wiggled against Xena as she felt the touch on her breasts. Gabrielle broke the kiss and dragged her lips to the pulse point on Xena's neck. She knew that her neck was very sensitive. Sucking and licking gently at the spot she drew a groan from Xena that sent heat flowing through her own body. Kissing her way down to Xena's breast Gabrielle hesitated and then softly licked the nipple. Xena moaned and arched up for more. Gabrielle was happy to give her all she wanted. She softly licked around the nipple and then blew cooling air a crossed the wet surface to harden it further. When she felt that it was ready she latched on and suckled Xena with passionate enthusiasm. As she loved the right breast she reached over and fondled the left to make it ready for her attentions. Gabrielle moved to the left and suckled it as well. The response she got from that breast was more intense than the right. Xena ground her pelvis up against Gabrielle's and arched her body so that more pressure was given to her breast. Xena was loosing control fast. She wanted Gabrielle to make the ache stop. "Baby, please!" Xena begged. "Not yet, my love, but soon. Just hold on and enjoy." Gabrielle was kneading Xena's breasts as she kissed and licked her way to the tight midriff below. She scooted her body down Xena's legs to give her better access. She purposely ran her core wetness against Xena's thigh to show her excitement was definitely shared. Xena groaned and pushed her thigh up into that silky wetness. She wanted Gabrielle to be as wild with passion as she was. Xena refused to keep her hands still any longer and reached for Gabrielle. Gabrielle ducked out of the way and dipped down to lick Xena's hip bone. Xena gave a tiny yelp and jerked away from the contact only to press back again for more. Gabrielle gently licked and blew on this sensitive area and then she placed her lips firmly against the crease and sucked. Xena came up off the bed and bucked into the blondes lips. Gabrielle knew that she was pushing her luck. Xena was only going to let her have control for so long and then it was going to be her turn to tease and pleasure Gabrielle. Gabrielle still had things she wanted to do before that happened so she moved it along. Turning her head toward Xena's core she blew her breath a cross the tight curls nestled in the V of her legs. She reached over and traced the outline of her lips and tickled the hair to make Xena moan and open her legs. Gabrielle drew Xena's scent into her being and couldn't tease any longer. She had to taste her love's essence. Gently parting the curls, Gabrielle was surprised to see Xena more than ready for her touch. She was hard and throbbing, Gabrielle was touched that Xena hadn't given up the game sooner as she must be hurting from the pressure. Gabrielle wasted no more time but began licking Xena's pleasure core. Xena spread her legs and gently began rocking her hips against Gabrielle's tongue. The fire built very quickly and she knew she wasn't going to be able to hold back for long. Gabrielle could feel the tension building and wanted to make Xena's release more powerful so she eased one finger into the warm wetness of Xena's center. "Oh, Gabrielle! Yes! You make me feel so wonderful." Xena placed her hands on Gabrielle's head and rocked her hips faster. Gabrielle inserted another finger and picked up the pace. She could feel Xena's muscles gripping her fingers and making love right back to her. Suddenly Xena went still and the only thing moving was the pulsing of her inner muscles. Gabrielle sucked Xena gently and threw her lover over the edge into a powerful orgasm. "By...the...gods! Gabrielle I love you!" Xena called as she came. Gabrielle watched her soul mate as she floated back to herself. The wonder and love written on her face made tears spring to Gabrielle's eyes. "Xena, I love you too." Gabrielle sniffled and Xena's eyes popped open to see what was wrong. "Baby, did I scare you? Why are you crying? Oh, Gabrielle!" Xena pushed herself up and wrapped Gabrielle into her arms. "I am not really crying. I just felt so overwhelmed with love and joy that it had to come out somehow. You are the best thing in my life and I adore you." Gabrielle hugged Xena tightly. Xena rocked Gabrielle and settled more fully back into her body. The orgasm had blown her into a million pieces and she was still coming back together. Xena wanted to gather herself completely before she turned her attention to Gabrielle's needs. Xena could tell that her need was great by the smell of her personal essence filling the room with sensual perfume. The smell was intoxicating and it was making Xena hot all over again. She wanted to see how excited Gabrielle was so she traced her hand lightly up Gabrielle's back and around to the left breast. The goose bumps and puckered nipple told her all she needed to know. Brushing her thumb across Gabrielle's nipple she gently pulled the blonde fully into her lap. This move put Gabrielle's breasts in the perfect place for her to suckle and lick to her hearts content. It also put Gabrielle spread wide open for Xena's exploring pleasure. While sucking on the pink nipples, Xena ran her hand down Gabrielle's stomach and straight to the golden curls that were tempting her. Gently running her finger up the crease next to the soft nest, Xena knew she was ready for her as Gabrielle gasped and bucked to the side to find Xena's hand. Gabrielle was so hot she thought that she was not going to survive this love making. All thought ended as Xena brushed her wet curls and grazed her clit. Xena continued to lick and suck on Gabrielle's breasts as she gently flicked her finger around the hard love bud. Gabrielle wasn't able to make a decision on which part of her body she wanted to move so she just gyrated all of it against Xena. Her movements were making Xena breathe heavily and wetness rushed to her thighs. Xena was eager to feel Gabrielle's release if this was her reaction to the build up. Sliding her hand down the wet crevice to Gabrielle's center she ground her palm against the blonde's clit as she inserted two fingers into the inviting tightness. Gabrielle groaned and rocked down onto Xena's hand. She began to move in a rhythm and the pace raced as Gabrielle sought her release. Gabrielle wanted to be closer to Xena and was trying to move up against her when she had another thought. She didn't want to go over by herself so she reached down between their legs and started to rub Xena's clit too. The room was filled with the sound of their shared moans and the smell of their combined essence. They were grinding against each other and kissing passionately. The moans turned to impassioned yells as they both climaxed as one. The jerking bodies wet with sweat and juices from each, slid easily as the two lovers stretched out to continue touching and bringing every tremor of release to the fore. Xena and Gabrielle looked into each others eyes and said together," I love you." Exhaustion took them both over and they sank into a gentle slumber wrapped in each others arms. Legs entangled and hearts slowing to beat reassuringly against each other, the two slept. The Next Morning... Gabrielle woke and the events of last night came flooding back to warm her anew. She expected to find Xena gone but was pleasantly surprised to find her arms wrapped securely around her. Taking time to enjoy the sight before her Gabrielle snuggled deeper in the warmth of Xena's embrace and gazed at her loves face. Xena looks so vulnerable in her sleep. Relaxed and satiated, Xena seemed to never have known pain or anger or hurt. Gabrielle wished she could be as relaxed all the time. With a wicked glint in her eyes Gabrielle started pressing light and tender kisses on the side of Xena's neck. Tiny little licks and barely there nips followed. Gabrielle played quietly while waiting for Xena to wake up. Moving her hand to gently caress Xena's breast Gabrielle glanced up at the raven haired woman and was shocked to see twinkling blues eyes staring back at her. "Good morning, Baby. How long have you been awake?" Gabrielle finished placing her hand on Xena's breast and grinned at her lover. "I woke as soon as you moved your arm. I was just going to see where you were going with this." Xena grinned at Gabby and dragged her up for a good morning kiss. When Gabrielle tried to deepen the kiss Xena pulled back and gave her a look. "Love, I don't know about you but I need a wash before I feel comfortable making love again." Xena looked at Gabby to see if she was hurt or mad about it. Gabrielle grinned and jumped up. "Last one in is a rotten goose egg." Running full out she made it to the pool and jumped in. Xena strolled in and gently lowered herself into the pool. Gabrielle looked at her lover with tenderness and concern. "Are you okay, my love? You don't seem to be moving very well this morning." Gabrielle moved to Xena's side and rubbed her shoulders gently. "I'm fine. I just tripped over the towels trying to race you in here and my ankle twisted. Hey don't worry! I'm really fine." Xena grabbed Gabby's arm as she started to drag her leg out of the water. "If I was hurt I would ask for help. I just want you to sit next to me and share this wonderful bath." Gabrielle settled down next to Xena and let her mind drift to the events of last night. She couldn't stay there for long as she started to get excited all over again. Her mind drifted to possibilities for this day. "What are we going to do today? Any plans?" She queried. "Well, after we finish our bath I thought I would show you your next surprise and then go take care of Argo. I need to stoke up the fires in the great room and get more water taken out to her. Other than that I am not sure. We are going to need to make something to eat soon." Xena said just as her stomach growled. They both laughed and then Gabrielle leaned into Xena's shoulder and asked," What surprise do you have for me? Xena I have nothing to give to you in return. How is that fair?" Pouting ensued until Xena grinned and kissed it away. "You have given me more than you even realize. I just have something that meant a lot to me long ago and I wanted to share it with you. You don't have to give me anything but your love and I will be happy for the rest of my life. Oh and cook. Deal?" The grin turned to a full out laugh as Gabrielle preened under the compliments. They both knew that cooking was never going to be Xena's best thing. "I am okay with that deal; I've tasted your cooking." Gabrielle ducked as Xena splashed water at her head. "Seriously though, I thought I would take you up on the unpacking and then fix us something wonderful to eat for brunch. I have too much energy right now to fully enjoy this bath so if you don't mind I am going to finish and go dress. Then we can do what ever you want first." Quickly washing herself and jumping out of the pool, Gabrielle headed into the bedroom to see what clothes she could make use of. Xena rested back on the stone wall and listened to Gabby humming in the bedroom. I have never been this happy before. It scares me to think of losing her now. What if something happens to her? Oh gods, I can't stand even the thought. There must be something I can do to ensure...Xena looked around as Gabrielle came lightly back into the room. "Hey, slowpoke, what are you sitting there thinking about? Can I use anything I want to in the storage room?" Gabrielle played with Xena's hair as she waited for an answer. Looking down she saw tears glistening in Xena's eyes. "What's wrong, my love, are you in pain?" Concern etched across her face she was ready to jump back in the hot springs when Xena stopped her with a raised hand. "Gabby, I am fine I was just thinking about how happy you have made me and got overwhelmed. I am going to finish up here myself and get dressed. Please don't worry. I'm great, I promise," Xena turned to give her love a kiss and lost all ability to breath. "Gods, Gabrielle you look stunning!" Gabrielle twirled before Xena so she could get the whole effect. She had picked out a red dress that hugged her form tightly and pushed her breasts up for all to see. It was full length and loose at the bottom but very tight at the top and middle. The jacket she had chosen fell right and left of the middle so as not to obstruct the view of her breasts. It was warm enough as long as the fire was going. This was a garment that was meant to cause internal heat not external. "Do you like it?" Gabrielle grinned and waited for her lover to breathe again. "Gabrielle you're beautiful and sexy, what's not to like. Don't go out to the great room until I stoke up the fires or you are going to freeze." Xena began washing herself as she talked so that Gabrielle wouldn't have to wait long to go about her business. When she ran the cloth between her legs she jerked and heard Gabby giggle. "Thank you very much baby!" Gabby went off to the store room the see what they had. Xena shook her head and finished with her bathing. Okay, two can play at that game. Gabby my love you have met your match. I'm going to dress fit to dazzle and see how calm you stay. Xena climbed out of the springs and made her way into the bedroom. She dressed with great care and then hurried to the great room before Gabrielle could see her again. Both women moved quickly about their chores as they didn't want to spend any longer than they had to apart. Xena finished with Argo and stood rubbing the horse's nose and talking quietly to her. "Gabrielle is going to be my life mate Argo so you really need to make friends with her. It's okay to like her. She is the greatest human I have ever met. Just give her a real chance okay?" Argo jerked her head up and down a few times and nuzzled Xena's shoulder. "I love you too Argo!" Xena gave a parting pat and went to the cave entrance to check the weather. Xena returned to her earlier thoughts about Gabrielle and all the love and joy that she felt sprang to the surface to overwhelm her. She still couldn't believe that only yesterday evening she was standing in this exact place and despaired of ever having Gabrielle as her lover and soul mate. Xena stepped out into the storm and lifted her face to the sky. Did one of you have anything to do with this bounty? Who must I thank for the wellspring of love that I have now? I love this woman with everything in me. Thank you for the chance to share these wonderful feelings with this special woman. Xena lifts her arms and voice to the heavens and begins to sing her hearts fullness of love and joy to be heard by the gods. Gabrielle lifts her head and turns to the entrance to the store room. She can hear Xena singing and feels this great pull to go be with her love and join in the magic of her singing. Gabrielle feels all the emotion behind her song without understanding the words. Tears are streaming down her cheeks as she makes her way to the cave entrance. Xena is turning in circles singing her love to the sky. As Gabrielle stands in the cave opening she can only see this sparkling blur of blue that takes her breath away. Xena is pouring out her heart and the crescendo of the song crashes over Gabrielle and leaves her shaking. There were no words yet written to express the true depth and breadth of feeling that Xena had captured with her melodious voice. Gabrielle stood in awe of such beauty and then wiped her eyes and gasped. The beauty was not just for the ears. The sight that greeted her took her breath away, as well. Xena stood still in the gently falling snow with ever greens framing her. The pale blue of her dress matched her eyes exactly. The cut of the dress was unique to Xena. This dress was simple and form fitting. The shimmer was generated by thousands of diamonds sewn into the dress itself. It cupped her breasts and clung to her hips in a loving manner only to fall freely to the ground in straight folds. "Xena, I don't know which to compliment first. The dress is stunning and the singing raised my soul to the heavens." Gabrielle walked out to Xena's side and wrapped her arms around her waist. Gabby was still reeling from the emotion in the song and she raised her face to the heavens and sent her own prayers up silently. Gods and Goddesses hear my prayer and accept my heartfelt thank you for the love and grace you have given to this great woman. Xena is the great love of my life and to be able to share this life with her is a gift beyond measure. For whatever help was given I offer up my thanks. Bless us with long life so that we may share our love and not be parted. Gabrielle wiped her tears and hugged Xena closer. Giving a small shiver that caused Xena to steer them both inside, Gabrielle snuggled into her loves arms and placed a tiny kiss just under Xena's chin. "I love you, Xena." Xena squeezed Gabby back and walked her over to Argo. "Hey girl, how are you doing out here. Staying warm enough?" Gabrielle asked the horse. Argo looked at her and then lowered her head into Gabby's hand. Gabrielle grinned and gave the beautiful horse a loving pat. Xena passed a dried apple to Gabrielle and urged her to feed it to Argo. "Xena, you know she doesn't eat from anyone's hand but yours." Just then Gabby felt the soft muzzle tickle her hand as Argo searched for her treat. More tears sprang to her eyes as she patted Argo on the velvety nose. "Thank you, girl, don't worry. We will take good care of her together." Gabrielle stepped closer and Argo laid her head on Gabby's shoulder in her form of a hug and Gabrielle knew a blessing. "Okay you two, I'm starving and we need to go get warmed up." Xena patted Argo as she took Gabrielle's arm to lead her inside. She winked at the horse when Gabrielle's back was turned and Argo snickered and nodded. The great room was warm and inviting as they moved inside. Gabrielle moved to the passage to the store room. Xena followed her. There was a pile of things that Gabrielle has gotten together before she heard Xena singing. She just needed to find a basket to load them all up in. As she turned to check the shelf she bumped into Xena. "Sorry, sweetie, I didn't hear you come in behind me. Did you want something from in here too?" Gabrielle looked at Xena and saw the mischief in her eyes. "What is up now?" Xena, grinning and acting all mysterious, took Gabrielle's hand and led her through a hidden door on the left of the main door. It opened directly into the bed room and Gabrielle started to remind Xena that they needed to eat if they wanted to have energy for making love again but Xena past the bed and walked to the wall. Reaching up and pushing in a small stone nestled in the corner of a wall torch holder Xena waited the few seconds for the door to start opening. She needed to oil the mechanisms that worked the door. Gabrielle moved up to her side and tried to peek around her. "This is a place that helped me and gave me some small measure of peace and now I want you to have it and use it as your own. I thought you might like to use it as your writing room." Xena explained as she moved out of the open doorway. She reached around and lit the torches and motioned Gabrielle to go in ahead of her. As Xena lit the rest of the torches Gabby looked around and marveled at the complete stillness in the room. Not even the springs could be heard and they rested right behind this room. "I don't know what to say. This is a wonderful gift Xena. You know that I have always wanted a place to write and think about all of our adventures. Thank you so much." Gabrielle went to her love and placed a sweet kiss on her lips. Xena wrapped her into her embrace and deepened the kiss just a little. "If I'm going to get that kind of thanks every time I do something for you then I am going to rack my brain to give you things all the time. Seriously, I wanted you to feel at home here. This is the one place that I call my home if I have to name one at all. This is the only place that has my things and self stamped into almost every corner of it." Xena cuddled Gabby close to her side and just enjoyed the closeness. Gabrielle was thinking of what she could do for Xena when they both heard the deep growl from the pit of Xena's stomach. Laughing out loud Gabrielle moved to the door and called back, "Okay, Okay, I'm moving you don't have to get nasty about it." Brunch; Gabrielle went back to the store room for her supplies and then went to the spring room for a jar of water. Her mind was racing with plans for the day. She wanted to make a perfect meal and then... "Gabrielle, is there anything I can help you with? I feel the need to do something. I'm not used to sitting still and doing nothing." Xena took the basket from Gabby and followed her to the cooking pit. Gabrielle grinned and reached up on tiptoe to give Xena a playful kiss. "You can sing to me as I cook. Other than that I can't think of anything for you to do... right now." Gabby winked at her love and moved away to start their meal. Xena moved out of her way and sat by the big fire and tried to think of the perfect song to show Gabrielle how she felt about her and their new life together. As with everything Xena knew she had to start with where she had come from. She closed her eyes and reaching deep into her soul, Xena began to sway as she started to sing. " I crawled through the darkness Never knowing how black it really was Then chance and circumstance awoke My mind; to the pain of my wrongdoing. Your smile awakens my soul, As the sun awakens the day. A kiss and my life is yours. It seems a fair price to pay. As I struggled to walk the right path I was set to make amends When this young blonde woman Graced me, against my will, with her light. Your touch arouses my senses As The moon arouses the night. Hold me and win me forever, In your arms all things are right. The joy and the goodness poured from you, To wash me in a warm glow. The struggle became less a burden And more an adventure to bestow. Your heart endures all emotion, As the sky endures all the stars. Love me and we'll have eternity. There is no greater love than ours." As the last note of the song faded away a deep still silence hung in the cave. Gabrielle stood next to the cooking pit transfixed by the beauty of the woman across the room. The song reached so deeply into her soul. She had been so caught up that she had no idea that there were tears streaming down her face. Xena opened her eyes and met the eyes of her soul mate across the distance. Xena felt a rush of love sweep through her whole being. She knew by the look on Gabrielle's face that her goal had been attained. Gabrielle was shining with love given and received. Xena spoke very softly," My love, you are my everything. There isn't much I wouldn't do for you. I sang from my soul to yours. I love you, so much!" Gabrielle put down the unused pan she was holding and moved across the room. Xena met her half way and they came together in a tender embrace and gentle soul quenching kiss. They both felt the need to feel the physical closeness that almost matched the emotional closeness, but not quite. That would come later because just then Xena's stomach decided to raise a noisy reminder that brunch was still not served. Gabrielle laughingly pulled away but Xena drew her back for one more gentle kiss. "My stomach can wait. There are other hungers that are more important to fill. I want to hold you and bask in your love." Xena placed a butterfly soft kiss on Gabrielle's forehead. "I agree with the need, my love. But I did promise a nice meal so I am going to get busy. You just relax and rest. Later, you will thank me." With a wicked twinkle in her eyes, Gabrielle turned to the business of making a feast fit for her love. Xena watched Gabrielle move about the cooking pit with purpose and marveled anew at this precious woman. Xena wanted to do one more thing to surprise the blonde. "Gabby, I will rest in a few minutes but right now I need to go do something. I will be right back." Gabrielle watched Xena head deeper into their cave and fleetingly wondered what she was up to now. Moving quickly, Xena gathered pillows and extra furs and pads from all over. She took all of these into the bard's room and made a raised dais of comfortable softness for when Gabrielle was writing her scrolls. Next she went looking for a pretty box for Gabrielle to keep her scrolls in when they weren't in use. Also Xena gathered an abundance of candles and torches to make it easier for Gabrielle to see as she worked. The last touch was scented oil placed in many different places in the room to make it a sweet smelling haven instead of a musty unused room. Having made the room as comfortable as she could, Xena returned to the great room and sat watching Gabrielle move around doing her work. `I just can't do enough to repay all she does for me. I am not worthy of the great goodness that is Gabrielle. I have done so many rotten and evil things that it scares me to think of that badness ever touching this precious woman. I have to find a way to protect her from now on. The bad in this world should not be allowed to change her innate innocence.' Gabrielle looked at Xena and wondered what she was thinking about. The look she wore was so strange. What ever she was thinking about it sure wasn't leading her to relax. Just then Xena's expression cleared and she grinned. Uh oh I don't even need to wonder at that look. I am pleased to say I know what she is thinking about now. "Xena, shame on you!" Gabby giggled and winked at her lover. Xena jumped and looked guilty for a second and then laughed with her soul mate. She had started because this was so new to her she had thought for a moment that she had been caught fantasizing about Gabby when it was totally okay to do that now. No reprisals. Raising her brow wickedly Xena just had to make her love blush. "I was just remembering what took place last night...and what I was going to be doing to you in the very near future." Xena relaxed back against the furs and watched the blood rush up Gabby's cheeks. "Xena, you are bad! But now that you mention it. There are a few things that I wanted to try last night but didn't want to rush things. I guess I could work them in later myself. I think I can actually get my body into that position. Hmmmm. Yep, no problem." The two women talked and teased and laughed their way through the meal that Gabby made. They were redefining their relationship and finding out new things about the thoughts of the other. The walls they had raised between them were tore down and everything they had dreamed of always sharing was brought out and given free reign. Before they knew it the afternoon was gone and evening was upon them. Gabrielle made an easy dinner and they decided to eat in the hot spring where they could relax further. "This is decadent. I have never been so spoiled in my entire life. Xena you must love this place above all others." Gabrielle sank deeper into the water as she spoke. "I do now. This place was always comfortable but it has so much more now that it is filled with love. You make every place we are the best to me." Xena answered seriously. Gabrielle wanted to keep things light and fun so she splashed Xena and waited for retribution. She didn't have to wait long. Xena reached under the water and grabbed her ankle and pulled sharply. Gabrielle sank under the surface and Xena kept pulling so that when she broke the surface again she was inches away from the warriors beautiful breasts. Still keeping things fun Gabrielle took a mouth full of water and sent a steady stream of it to wash over those bountiful mounds. She watched fascinated as the droplets trailed down Xena's stomach and into the water. She wanted to follow that same path with her lips and after looking up and seeing that Xena knew her thoughts and seemed to be in agreement she did just that. Xena threw her head back and arched into the seeking lips. Gabrielle explored the vast treasures intensively. The two women strained to get closer and Gabby gave up her quest, momentarily, to move up into Xena's lap. Situated facing the warrior, Gabrielle was pleased to begin a new trail of exploration. The sensitive skin under Xena's ear was calling to her to kiss and lick and nip. Xena ran her hands over Gabrielle's back and stroked a groan from the bard. A light skimming of nails down the center of her spine had Gabrielle squirming. Gabrielle added vigor to her kisses on the lobe of Xena's ear and traced her finger softly over the collarbone to make Xena moan. Trailing kisses down her neck to the place her fingers had just been Gabrielle rained kisses and licks from one shoulder to the next. Xena wanted more from her love and eased back to give Gabrielle access to her breasts in the hope that she would hurry. Taking the hint and dipping down for a hungry taste, Gabrielle made the raven haired woman do some squirming of her own. Paying special attention to the right nipple Gabrielle sucked and then gently nipped the erect nub. Xena bucked her hips and moaned again. Gabrielle was driving the warrior crazy and she decided that turn about was fair play. Taking Gabrielle's arms, Xena placed them up on her shoulders to give her total access to the bard's sides and underarms. Raking her nails gently at first from hips up her sides to her arms and then to her wrists and back down again. Gabrielle wiggled and tried to move her arms but Xena wasn't done yet. With more pressure this time she followed the same path and got even more reaction. Gabrielle slid forward so that her core was pressed against Xena's stomach. "Xena, I don't want to draw this out. I need you now. I have been thinking about this in different scenarios all day and I am so ready to love you and be loved by you. Please don't tease me any more." Gabrielle looked up at her love with a guilty face and a hopeful heart. She had done this to herself and she knew she didn't have Xena's control. The heat burning in her core was consuming every part of her. She hoped that Xena would not be disappointed. Xena wanted to make every time they were together intimately be romantic and perfect. Sometimes, feelings ran wild and release was impatient. She really wanted to slow things down and take her love to bed. Gabrielle had other ideas entirely. She wanted to make love right where they were. There was no slowing her down. When Xena hesitated Gabrielle took the lead and set about making Xena mindless with desire. Moving to Xena's breasts, Gabby nuzzled the underside where she knew Xena was most sensitive. Placing light damp kisses from one side to the other, Gabrielle blew a soft breeze across the dampness to draw Xena's nipple to a tight bud. When satisfied with her lover's reaction, Gabby moved to the other breast and repeated the ritual. Xena was squirming in her seat and gave a small growl to hurry Gabby along. Taking the hint, the blonde placed a small kiss on each nipple to tease then quickly sucked the left nipple into her mouth. Pulling more of Xena's aural into her mouth she flicked her tongue back and forth as she massaged the other breast with her hand. Xena was arching and moaning and ready to move on. She wasn't thinking of slowing down now. Xena's reaction was adding fuel to Gabrielle's fire and she wanted to feel her lover's touch all over her body, but specifically one area was screaming for attention. Gabrielle took Xena's hand and placed it where she wanted it most. Then reaching between their bodies Gabrielle began stroking Xena's core. The tension mounted quickly as the women loved each other well. Gabrielle rocked against Xena's hand as the warrior stroked her with two fingers inside. The blond was playing with the sensitive bud that made Xena breathless and close to release. She struggled to hold back until Gabrielle could join her in her pleasure. When Gabrielle slowed her movements to very precise circles Xena knew she was ready. Xena pushed inside more deeply and maneuvered Gabby to lay back supported by Xena's other arm. Xena increased her thrusting to a very fast pace and smiled lovingly as Gabrielle came with a small scream. As Gabby went limp with her release, Xena folded her lover close into her arms and gently rocked her soul mate back to earth. As Gabby began to recover, it came to her that Xena was still not satisfied. She took a couple of minutes to gather her wits and the she instructed Xena to sit on the hot springs wall. Positioned at the perfect height, Xena was not left to wonder at the instructions for long. Gabrielle dove right in to love her woman orally. Starting with the hyper sensitive clit she brought Xena back to her former arousal point and increased the pressure of her tongue. Xena began to buck and Gabrielle knew what she wanted. Inserting two fingers inside, Gabby stroked her love into frenzy. Xena was so excited she couldn't stand it. When Gabrielle added another finger and sucked greedily on the engorged bud, Xena gave a final thrust and yell and blew into a million pieces. Xena's release was so powerful that she couldn't even hold herself upright after it. She just leaned forward to rest her head on top of Gabrielle's and tried to catch her breath. "My love, whenever you are ready we can move to the bed. I just wanted to make love with you in this perfect place." Gabrielle didn't know it, but her words touched Xena deeply. It made her realize that Gabby shared her thoughts and feelings on perfect lovemaking. Xena now understood that perfect was what you made it. "As soon as I can hold myself up again the bed sounds great." Xena tilted Gabrielle's face up to her and gently kissed her forehead. "I love you, Gabrielle." Gabby recognized the tenderness in Xena and marveled at her fortune. This Xena was so precious to her. She had been in love with Xena for so long but had still only had a couple of glimpses into this gentle personage. Gabrielle wanted to capture every memory and record it for the times when gentle was not going to be in evidence. The future would intrude and problems would have to be faced and solved. Gabrielle silently asked that the storm continue for a little longer. She wanted to cram as much as she could into the next few days. Xena stepped out of the springs and reached for towels for them both, wrapping one around Gabrielle as she climbed out of the water. Xena was ready to go to bed and hold her love all through the night. It would fulfill one of her dreams. Xena waited until Gabrielle was dried and dressed and then she swept her soul mate up in her arms and carried her to the bed room. "We really wasted time getting dressed, I think." Gabrielle laughed and stood still as Xena disrobed her. "Gabby, do you mind if we sleep skin to skin? I don't want to make you uncomfortable. I just want to hold you with nothing separating us. It is kind of a dream of mine to sleep this way." Xena watched her loves face. Gabrielle giggled and reassured Xena, "I have dreamed of it as well my love. I was just thinking of the steps we could have saved. This is the only way I want to sleep while we are here." Xena moved around the bed pulling the curtains closed for the night. She put out most of the torches and then turned to climb into bed with Gabrielle. Pausing she stood gazing at the beauty under the covers. Xena couldn't believe her dreams had come to pass. Sending up a silent prayer as she got into bed, Xena once again thanked the gods and goddesses for allowing this to happen for her. Snuggling in under the covers the two women slept in each others arms. Sometime in the night Gabrielle awoke and felt an overwhelming need to go and write about all of the last couple of days events. Slipping out of the bed carefully, so as not to waken her warrior, Gabrielle made her way to the secret room. After lighting all the torches and candles she saw the work Xena had been doing earlier and softly smiled. She felt so treasured and pampered by Xena. She wanted to do something very special for the raven haired woman but was having a hard time thinking of the right thing. She sat on the dais that Xena had made and started to write of the love she felt. The story of their coming together caught Gabrielle up and morning came before she knew it. Xena found her curled up and writing away. "My love, have you been up long?" Xena questioned and looked concerned. "I woke and had to write, so I have been up for a bit. I wanted to record everything...ok not everything but most of it so that I could have it always." Gabrielle blushed and ducked her head. Peeking at Xena through her hair she waited to see Xena's reaction. Sometimes Xena just humored her writing. "Gabrielle I am glad that you are writing about us. It is only when you just write about me that I feel overwhelmed. You are a blessing to me as well but we both know that I can't write like you do. You do your thing and I will record my thoughts and feelings with song." Xena leaned over the pillows to drop a gentle kiss on Gabby's lips and then she asked, "Ready for a bath? We can do whatever you like today. So do you have any thoughts, wishes, or fantasies?" She asked with a raised brow and wicked twinkle in her eyes. "I think that breakfast should come first and then a nice relaxing soak would be perfect. Then we will see what the day brings. Work for you, my love?" Gabrielle rose from her dais and led the way out of the secret room. "I want to tell you about what I was writing." Gabrielle glanced back at Xena and caught her watching her backside. With a wink and grin Gabby gave a little shake and walked out of the room. Xena fed and watered Argo as Gabrielle made breakfast for them. The two women eat in silence and finished quickly so that they could get to the bath part of the day. They quickly cleaned up the breakfast things and walked arm in arm to the hot springs. After disrobing and sinking into the water they relaxed and talked quietly about the days just past. Gabby filled Xena in on the story she had worked on as Xena followed her every expression and movement. Xena marveled yet again at the gift Gabrielle had been given. Her beauty and goodness could not be matched in the entire world. `How did I get to be the lucky one to receive this gift? She's breathtaking...' Xena and Gabrielle both jump as the goddess of love pops into the cave right next to them. "Xena, enough already. I have been listening in on you two for the last couple of days and now all I can hear is the two of you." The voluptuous blonde pouted. Quickly recovering, she focused on Gabrielle. "Congratulations, by the way. I was so sure that you would both chicken out." Turning her attention to Xena, Aphrodite shook her head. "Why do you question? Just enjoy the gift and stop trying to live in the past. I have to tell you both that I haven't seen, heard or been called by so much love since...well, in forever." Aphrodite moved to the springs' wall and sat down. Flipping her hair over the right shoulder she continued. "The halls of Olympus are echoing with the love you two are feeling. It's great and all, don't get me wrong but my head aches. Xena and Gabrielle speak your love together and have done with the questions and worries for what is to come. I am here for you both if there is ever anything you need or want." Aphrodite rose as if to leave and Xena was struck with an idea. "Is it possible for you to marry us?" Xena watched Gabrielle's face to see her reaction. Xena didn't know which occurred first, the tears or the radiant smile that covered Gabrielle's face. "Xena, do you mean it?" Gabrielle jumped from her seat to Xena's lap as the emphatic nod confirmed her question. The two women were lost in each other's eyes and gradually drifted into a gentle love filled kiss. After a couple of seconds, to let the two lovers celebrate, Aphrodite cleared her throat to remind them she was still there. They parted amid laughter and tears of joy. "So when shall we have the wedding? Oh there is so much to do." Aphrodite gushed. The two in the water shared a look and after a small nod from Gabrielle, Xena said, "We don't want a big wedding. In fact we really just want to have it here with just us and the ones who will perform it." Xena checked to see if that was okay with her soul mate. Gabrielle nodded again and snuggled into Xena's lap more comfortably. "We can celebrate with friends and family later. I just want to marry my soul mate and then have her all to myself." Gabby blushed. Aphrodite examined both women and then hopped up from the wall. She walked to the shelves and grabbed two towels. "I need to talk to each of you separately and then we can decide on the next step. The when, how and particulars of it all can be sorted out after." She handed the two women their towels and asked, "Is there somewhere private that I can wait for one of you to meet me? I will be talking to you and then start your preparation for the ceremony." Gabrielle offered her sanctuary for the meetings and started to tell her how to get there when Aphrodite popped out again. "The advantages of goddess hood, I guess." Gabrielle turned to Xena as she got out of the bath. "I love you so much, Xena." Xena looked up to see tears sliding quickly down her love's face. "Then why are you crying, my love?" Xena dropped her towel and rushed to Gabrielle's side. Folding her soul mate into her arms she offered all her love through the embrace. "Silly, I am crying because I am so happy. I honestly never dared to dream that this would really happen for us. I can't find the right words to express how much I am feeling right now." Gabrielle just rested her head on Xena's shoulder and soaked up the feel of her. "I understand how you feel. I just hope you weren't disappointed by my proposal. I just want to be connected to you in everyway possible. I love you, Gabrielle." Xena blinked tears from her own eyes and tightened her embrace to bring Gabrielle as close as they could be, for now. "We shouldn't keep the goddess waiting." Xena said, with a parting kiss. "You go ahead and go first. I am going to check on Argo." Gabrielle paused to watch Xena finish. Gabrielle couldn't get over how different Xena appeared in dresses. She looked so soft and relaxed. Gabrielle wished she could always be so relaxed. As Xena finished slipping into her shoes she looked up and smiled. Gabrielle was standing there with a far away look in her eyes. She looked so sweet standing there with her hair in a towel and her hands folded in front of her. "You better get going. We don't want Aphrodite to get bored and leave." Xena kissed Gabrielle's nose and then turned her toward the bedroom and her sanctuary. Xena headed out to see how Argo was fairing. Aphrodite was reclining on the raised dais that Xena had made comfortable for Gabrielle. The blonde walked in and wasn't sure where she should go. "Come on over and sit with me. I think we should be comfy as we chat." As Gabrielle settled herself against the pillows, Aphrodite made a scroll appear in her hand from thin air. "Okay, then, it would appear that you have some concerns. How about we talk about them and see where to go from there." The goddess licked the tip of her now present quill and glanced at Gabrielle over the top of the scroll. "Tell me what worries you and maybe I can help." Gabrielle sat still and tried to think about what Aphrodite could be talking about. She wasn't going to quickly deny that there were concerns because she was aware of a distant feeling of unease. "Well, I guess my concerns would be..." Gabrielle started. Aphrodite leaned forward as if to draw every word into her very being. `````````````````````````````````````````````` Xena walked back into the main room after taking care of Argo. She must have been gone longer than she realized because she found Gabrielle curled up next to the main fire. The smell of the rabbit stew was pleasant and heavy in the big room. Xena moved to stand at her friend's side. Taking her time, she gazed at the beauty so innocently laying on the skins. Xena wanted to kiss her awake so badly. Instead she gently reached down and placed her hand on Gabrielle's shoulder and with a small squeeze she woke her that way. "Hmmmm....?" Gabrielle breathed. Xena watched as Gabrielle became aware of her surroundings and was worried at the deep sorrow she witnessed chase across her friends face. "What's wrong?" Xena knelt next to her and softly stroked her hair. Gabrielle looked at Xena for a long moment; with tears shining in her eyes and said, "It was just a dream!" She drew in a deep shuddering breath and began crying heart brokenly. Xena gathered her into her arms and rocked her while making nearly silent comforting noises in the back of her throat. "It's over now...shhhhh." Xena tried to reassure her. She felt Gabrielle stiffen in her arms and try to pull away. For a brief moment Xena refused to loosen her grip but then relented and drew back. Xena was astonished at the fierce look of determination on Gabrielle's dear face. Gabrielle was very determined as she stared into Xena's eyes. "Xena, I have to tell you something and I need you to hear me out." She paused and thought about how she would do this. "I want to tell you about my dream..." Gabrielle reached for Xena's hand and with a start Xena gripped her hand in return. Gabrielle spoke for a long time without any interuptions from her friend. She didn't leave anything out of her story. At last she finished and looked shyly up at her best friend. The tension was strong around the fire and Gabrielle waited with a trembling heart for Xena to say something. "Gabrielle..." Xena gulped and took a deep breath. "I have loved you for so long!" With a steady gaze, Xena looked deeply into Gabrielle's eyes and made her vow. "I was wrong when I said it was over....the dream....our dream is just starting." Xena stood and pulled Gabrielle up by her hand. "I want to show you something..." With a laugh and building joy, Xena led Gabrielle to the far wall. "Your dream was real in so many ways. Now we just have to live it again." Xena grinned and pulled Gabrielle through the unseen opening. ~The End~ Any and all comments will be appreciated at: sand.piper87@yahoo.com (Flames will be laughed at, then thrown properly into the rubbish bin where they belong) Thank you