Chapter XCI

“You’re sure she’s gonna be okay?” Amy asked softly as she curled into Casey’s arms while Lucy was loaded onto the travois that would carry her to Wonder Woman’s jet.

“I know she’s going to be in the best possible hands,” Casey replied into her blonde hair. “We both know Xena will do everything she can to make Lucy better.”

“But her arm….”

“I have something I would like to try if Lucy’s willing, but first I need to get her back to the City,” Xena said softly. “Her best chance is there.”

Amy smiled, though there were still tears in her eyes. “Her best chance is with you, and we all know that… like Casey said. It’s just… it’s hard to see her like this. To know there’s nothing I can do for her.”

“You’re going to need to be her strength,” Casey said before Xena could respond. “You’re going to have to help her get through this, and we’re all going to be beside you both. Okay?” feeling the blonde head bob up and down against her chest. “But right now, we need to let her and Xena and the rest get back to the City so they can be taken care of in a place that has all the tools and medicines necessary to give them their best chance. How about we go help the Guardians and the rest get back to their rooms, then we can go catch some zzz’s as well, because I don’t know about you, but I feel like I lived through a lifetime or two today.”

Xena smiled to herself as she heard Casey’s words, since it meant that the Fae’s song had woven itself into the minds and memories of all the women that had been present on the battlefield. She could still hear it faintly at the edges of her considerable hearing, and she realized it would likely continue until the battlefield was clear, if not for the rest of the night.

She reached the jet just behind Lucy, noting that everyone else was already aboard. She waited for the Amazons to settle her last patient, then looked at Supergirl. “You gonna be all right until we get home?” seeing Kara nod slowly.

“As long as we don’t run into anymore big bads? Yeah.”

Xena bobbed her head in agreement and turned her attention to Diana, who was casually waiting for the go-ahead order. “All right, Wonder Woman. Hit it!” And with that, the jets and its occupants disappeared from view, and seconds later, there was a sonic boom… then nothing that could be traced.

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

Sam and Brooke had, at Wonder Woman’s direction, gone to the cavern - which was the closest place they could reach with supplies - and snagged a case of water. They made their way back to the Guardians carefully, not wanting to injure themselves beyond the bruises they sported. Slowly, they passed the water out to both Guardians and companions, then waited for instructions on what to do next.

Cyane approached them first as she neared the encampment where the Guardians were seated. “How are you? Are you damaged in any way?”

Sam shook her head. “Beyond some bruises? No… we’re all right. We were just trying to figure out how else we can help these guys.”

“You stood with them, did you not?” Cyane asked seriously, waiting for them to nod their agreement. “Then you have done the most you can. Unless you’re a healer or have some kind of medical training, the best thing you can do for now is clear the field and return to your trailer and get some sleep. Everyone will be needed tomorrow to help take care of the dead and clean up this place so it can be returned to the Sioux better than how we found it.”

“You’re sure there’s nothing…” Penelope Garcia asked. “I feel like we didn’t do enough to help tonight.”

“I’m sure,” Cyane replied. “Trust me when I tell you that your help will be more than necessary tomorrow. Tonight, we just want to repair what damage we can and get people to their quarters so they can get some rest. There will be plenty to take care of tomorrow.”

The non-Guardians exchanged glances, then nodded their agreement and headed off towards their temporary domiciles. Before Cyane could give directives to the rest of her party, Supergirl arrived with a number of people accompanying her, and she motioned to those she could see had injuries to be taken care of first. Several of the other medics continued toward the Guardians and were soon checking them out especially carefully.

Batman, relieved of his escort duties, trod over to where Helena, Barbara, and Dinah were seated together. “Are you three all right?”

Barbara reached out a hand to him, which he accepted with alacrity, holding it tightly and studying her face as she returned the favor. “We’re fine, Bruce,” she replied softly enough that no one beyond them could hear her words. “How are you?”

He rubbed at his chest absently. “I think I’m okay. I just have the weirdest sensation… like I missed something important.”

“I’m glad you’re all right, Old Man,” Helena commented as she stood and strode off to check on Regina and Emma. Bruce, Dinah, and Barbara exchanged startled glances, but wisely, no one said a word.

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

“Hey,” Helena called softly into the semi-darkness where Regina and Emma leaned against one another and a hillock that was keeping them mostly upright. “You guys okay?”

Regina arched an eyebrow in her direction but didn’t deign to say anything. Emma, on the other hand, shook her head. “Have you ever heard the phrase ‘rode hard and put away wet’?” She smirked when Helena nodded. “That’s about how we feel at the moment. We just want to go lay down for a little bit.”

“So, umm... why don’t you? I mean... nothing’s keeping you here, is it?”

Regina snorted. “Nothing other than the fact that we have no idea where we are nor how to return to where we need to be. Navigating is a little more... challenging that it would normally be.”

“Because it’s easier just to visualize and pop than it is to actually have to figure out where you’re going,” Emma snarked, causing Helena to laugh and Regina to give her the stink eye.

“Well, c’mon back over with the rest of us. I’m sure we can figure something out.” They studied Helena for a long moment, then exchanged glances with each other, then Emma held out a hand that Regina accepted, and they followed her back to where the Guardians were just starting to stir.

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

“Hey,” Abbie drawled softly as she reached the spot where Alex and Olivia were curled up around one another on the ground. “Don’t you think you’d be more comfortable... I dunno... lying on a bed, maybe?”

Olivia snorted, and Alex just shifted until she could bury her face in Olivia’s neck. “Yeah... maybe.”

“So you’re just laying here because...?”

“It seemed like a good idea at the time?? Is there a reason you’re harassing us, Carmichael?” Alex huffed, turning to meet Abbie’s brown eyes with a distinct twinkle in her own blue ones.

“Yes, Cabot... there actually is.” She dropped to her knees, then proceeded to worm her way between them. “I want in on all the lovin’ going on here,” pulling both of them into her and hugging them tightly to her chest, despite the fists swinging in her direction. She held on tighter and kissed the tops of both heads. “I’m so glad you guys are okay.” She tilted her head down slightly and looked between them. “You are okay, right?”

They glanced at each other, then reached across Abbie’s body to clasp hands and squeeze her as tightly as they could. She squawked, and they laughed, causing everyone to look at them and chuckle at the silliness, using it as stress relief as much as anything. Abbie reached up and gave them noogies, causing them to jerk away from her and stumble to their feet.

“Rude, Carmichael!” backing away hand-in-hand as she stood.

She shrugged. “Maybe… but it got you on your feet, didn’t it? Now, c’mon,” she proclaimed, wrapping an arm around each of their shoulders and nudging them in the direction of the Warehouse. “I know for a fact Gabrielle would love to get a little rest some time before daylight hits, and I also know she’s not leaving this battlefield until everyone else is taken care of. So how’s about we start leading the little parade back to the Warehouse where you all,” motioning around to all of the Guardians who were listening in with undisguised interest, “are sleeping so that the rest of us regular people can go do the same? Because I don’t know about y’all, but I’m beat.”

“Listen to her, Liv,” Jo called out hoarsely from where she was spread out on the ground nearby. “All any of us wanna do now is catch some zzz’s.” She winced as the medic pulled tightly on the straps securing her legs to the splints they were encased in. “And maybe a little more morphine to make that a little easier.”

Olivia gasped and slipped out from under Abbie’s arm, kneeling at Jo’s side. “What happened?”

Jo shrugged, then winced. “Wrong time, wrong place. Never let it be said that the dead can’t hold their own. Pretty sure the SOB hit me with a shovel or something, given the way they’re broken.” She shook her head. “Guess my retirement is gonna start early.”

“Why didn’t you go out on the flight with Xena? This seems pretty serious.”

“The clinic here can take care of setting these. I don’t need no operating room or blood transfusions.”

“Maybe not, but you’re definitely gonna need a wheelchair for a while.”

“All of which we can worry about tomorrow,” Gabrielle said calmly. She nodded her head to the Warrior that had been tending to Jo, and he stuck her with a needle before she could blink. She thought of protesting, then a warm wave of lethargy rolled through her and she relaxed and closed her eyes. Gabrielle met Blair’s eyes and took her cold hand into her own warm ones. “She’ll be fine. The shot was to help her relax and take the edge off so they can transport you both into town. John will go with you and will give you a comfortable place to rest until the staff gets into the clinic tomorrow. He’ll make sure she’s in as little pain as is possible for the duration.”

“Thank you, Gabrielle,” sliding one hand free to wipe at the tears that had suddenly welled in her eyes. “This happened to her because she was protecting me. I didn’t even see him, and all of a sudden….”

Gabrielle touched her hand to Blair’s face and dried her tears. “And she’d do it all over again, despite how bad it hurts right now. I know… I married one of those myself,” giving Blair a small smile that was returned even with the tears. “I promise we’ll take the very best care of her we can. Go with John. His wife will make sure you get some rest, and though it won’t fix anything, it might make it easier to bear tomorrow.”

“You speak from experience,” Blair stated unequivocally.

Gabrielle nodded. “Unfortunately, yes. But it also gives me comfort, knowing I’ve gotten through it before.”

Alex stepped forward and opened her arms to Blair who stepped into them and accepted the comfort being offered. “We’re here if you need us, and we’re not going anywhere until you and Jo are ready to go home with us.”

“Thanks, Alex. You can’t know how much….”

“Yeah… I can.” Blair nodded her understanding, then stepped back, allowing John to take her elbow as he signaled to the two men carrying Jo’s travois. In moments, they were loaded into the back of an older ambulance, and it was making its way carefully out of the hills and into the town.

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

Casey and Amy arrived where the Guardians were just as they were beginning to get back on their feet. They heard the sound of laughter and turned to one another in surprise, then Casey realized what must have happened. “Abbie,” she said succinctly. Amy just looked at her. Casey pointed in the direction all of the Guardians were facing. “Abbie,” she repeated. “Whatever she’s doing, she making everyone laugh.” she shook her red head. “It’s something she’s good at… when she lets herself be.”

“I sense a story.”

“Yeah, but there’s no time for it now. Maybe when we get back. Lucy and I talked about trying to be better friends, instead of just colleagues. Maybe you and I could do the same.”

“I’d really like that,” Amy said shyly. “Most of my friends, I only see in passing anymore… except for Scud and Janet.”

“Sounds like a plan. Now let’s see if we can hustle these guys to bed. I’m ready to be done.”

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

Gabrielle turned as the ambulance departed to find Casey and Amy approaching them. She met Casey’s eyes, who merely raised an eyebrow in question and waited for Gabrielle to speak. “You and Amy are sharing a trailer, yes?” not mentioning the missing significant others.

“With Janet and Max and Dominique,” Amy added helpfully. “Scud decided to stay with the guys,” gesturing to where he was standing with Dyson, Will, and Henry, “so they wouldn’t feel like they were being left out since they didn’t really know anyone else here. It wasn’t full though. We still had half a dozen empty beds.”

“Good. Why don’t you take Emma, Regina and Abbie with you and give them a place to sleep tonight?” She turned back to the men. “If you gentlemen would like to join them, you can, or if you would prefer to remain on your own, it’s totally up to you. Either way, I would like everyone to find somewhere to sleep now. the sun will be up soon enough and there will be plenty for us to do then.”

“Even us?” Barbara asked.

“That is up to you. As Guardians and companions, you are more than welcome to return to your previous accommodations. Or you can stay out here among your friends. I would suggest returning to the Warehouse, if only because that’s where your things are. I imagine you’d all be more comfortable if you changed into something that didn’t reek of a battlefield,” seeing them slowly nod their agreement. “All right, ladies and gentlemen… let’s do this. I still have work to do.”

They looked at her and then each other, and without another word, dispersed to their various locations, and for the first time that night, silence reigned on the field of battle.

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

Trick looked around at the Fae that stood guard over those that had sacrificed everything to defeat Saligia. “We done good here, Old Man,” Darius commented as his eyes swept the area.

“We did all right, my friend. The Fae did, anyway. But too many died here tonight. Too many that never should have been in harm’s way.”

“Maybe. But it was their choice.” He glanced at Trick before turning his attention back to the still bodies and the reverence of the people who stood sentinel around them. “Would they choose the same thing… knowin’ this would be the outcome?” He shrugged. “Dunno. But it’s the choice they made… the consequence they got. Nothin’ can change that… not even all the wishful thinkin’ in the world.”

“I could….”

“No,” Darius cut in forcefully. “You couldn’t. You dishonor them by thinkin’ so. This isn’t your story to write.”

Trick snorted. “When did you get to be so smart?”

Darius chuckled softly, not wanting to intrude on the serenity of their vigil but unwilling to let the remark pass without ragging on Trick just a little. “I dunno, Old Man. When did you get to be so old?”

Trick snorted. “A lot longer ago than you’ve been alive. Come,” he commanded, turning from the dead and walking back toward the little bit of light that remained on the battlefield. “The rest will keep a good watch. You and I need a beer.”

Darius nodded and followed him silently in the night.

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

Xena opened the phone Mrs. Frederick had passed to Gabrielle when she’d taken the Sword of War into her custody. Kara and Diana just looked at her in surprise, but she didn’t explain - she simply dialed the number for her office, knowing Kurt would pick up.

“I’m sorry,” she said when he answered. “I wouldn’t have had this happen for anything in the world. If I could have….”

“I know… and so does Brittany. I think even San… Santana knew. It’s one thing that made her so willing to go. She knew you’d do the same thing.” He wiped his eyes and cleared his throat. “Aren’t you supposed to be on radio silence right now? Why are you calling me?”

“Not anymore. Saggy showed up early, and we defeated him… in great part, I believe because of whatever Brittany did to the Machine.”

“How do you know about that?”

“Because I think it reset Root as well. She’s… well, you’ll see. We’ll be there in a few minutes. Call the trauma team in and have them meet us on the roof.”

“That’s where….” His breathing shuddered. “Um… there’s a cleanup team up there right now.”

Xena nodded and her voice softened. “We’ll do our best to respect that space. But I’ve got six seriously injured with me; I need the trauma team to meet me upstairs with gurneys, and I need the units downstairs ready to receive patients. Kurt, I wouldn’t ask if it wasn’t critical. I promise to check in with Brittany as quickly as I can.”

“Thank you, Xena. I just… I don’t know if she’s going to survive this,” he replied, then raised his voice above a whisper. “I’ll have the team upstairs in a few minutes.”

She ended the call and turned to Diana. “How long before we arrive?”

“We will probably be there before the team makes it upstairs at our current speed. The real question is - how are we going to unload everyone without actually landing the jet?”

Xena smiled tiredly. “If you can hold it still, I can get everyone safely debarked. It’ll be like the Coast Guard drills we sometimes run on Themiscyra.”

Diana nodded and traded glances with Kara. “Piece of cake… I hope.”



Chapter XCII

The Guardians and their companions were all silent on the walk back to the Warehouse. It seemed like it took an eternity to get there, but much of that was due to their exhaustion and the lack of urgency they felt in returning to shelter. Helena, carrying Barbara because Dinah was simply too drained to move the wheelchair telekinetically, headed directed toward the Batplane. Gabrielle stopped them and the rest as they reached the Warehouse entrance and turned to meet each pair of eyes before she spoke.

“I know you guys want… need… to go inside and get some rest, and gods know that you’ve more than earned it. I just want to make sure you’re all okay and address any immediate questions or concerns you might have about… well, everything.”

The Guardians looked at one another as though trying to determine who was going to speak first. All eyes ended up on Helena, who sighed in resignation. Batman stepped up and opened the wheelchair he’d been carrying, and Helena placed Barbara gently in the chair before turning to meet Gabrielle’s eyes.

“I don’t think anyone has the desire to stay out here tonight and rehash everything,” she responded honestly. “I know there are questions - I’ve got a handful myself. But right now, I just want to get some sleep and think about the rest of this later.” She shrugged. “Maybe tomorrow we can sit down and talk this over? It will give us all a chance to write down all the things we want answers to.”

Gabrielle watched the group as Helena spoke, finding their tacit agreement with Helena’s words in their expressions and body language. She nodded.

“All right. I didn’t know if there were answers you might need immediately to help you all rest a little better, but if you’re all okay with waiting until tomorrow, that’s fine with me,” trying not to let the frustration she felt due to her separation from Xena come through in her voice. She knew she was at least mostly successful when she saw the relief flash around the entire group. She nodded again. “All right, everyone head on inside and find your rooms. We won’t be starting too early, so you can get some real rest.” She took a deep breath. “Thank you, ladies… and Batman… so much. You’ll never know the difference your contribution made to tonight’s victory.”

“Are we sure it’s a complete victory and not just a pause in the fighting while Saligia regroups?”

Gabrielle met Maura’s eyes compassionately, knowing this woman, more than the rest, would question everything… especially since the traumatic brain injury that continued to plague her. She nodded. “Yes. The Horseman is dead by my hand, and Saligia was blown out of existence by the Hope Talisman and the Sword of War.”

“Yeah… I wanna hear about that, and how you got ahold of the damn thing in the first place,” Bo commented. “I thought the stories said it belonged exclusively to Ares, and that only he could wield it.”

Gabrielle blushed - though it was not very evident in the darkness - and cleared her throat delicately. “Remember that stories can be manipulated by the teller. There is a kernel of truth there, but it’s not necessarily the whole truth.”

Before anyone else could speak, Janet stepped up into her role as a doctor. “As much as I know we all want to hear the details, I really don’t think now’s the time. No matter what else happened tonight, we all expended quite a bit of energy to accomplish our victory over Saligia, and we need to recover from that… preferably before we all fall down from exhaustion or end up in the hospital.”

“She’s right,” Lauren and Maura concurred together, exchanging glances and smiling at their synchronicity.

Helen Magnus, who was closest to the Warehouse door, took the two steps forward necessary to open it and gestured everyone inside. “Sooner we get some rest, then, the sooner we’ll have some answers. And I can’t speak for the rest of you, but I’m so hungry even those military meals are starting to look attractive.”

Her words were met with several grumbling stomachs as well as verbal acknowledgment of the truth she spoke. Without another word, the women began filing into the corridor single-file, intent on getting to their rooms as well as finding something to fill their bellies in the interim. They didn’t even take notice of Claudia sitting at her station, but Gabrielle did. She gave each woman a brief word of thanks and bid them goodnight as they passed her. She waited until they all had passed into the apartment hallway, intent on getting to their rooms. When the last door closed, she turned to Claudia.

“What’s up?”

“Why does something have to be up for me to be sitting at my desk? This is where I work and everything.” Gabrielle merely arched an eyebrow at her and waited. Claudia huffed. “All right… fine! How did you even know, anyway??” She sighed. “Mrs. Frederick and Artie are waiting for you at the bronzing station. They want you there to bronze that sword.”

Gabrielle closed her eyes and pinched the bridge of her nose between her thumb and forefinger. She could feel herself struggling with control, but she knew this was something that required her attention and expediency. She nodded her head without opening her eyes. “I need to go back out and check on the women bunking down in the Batplane, then let them know I’ll be right down.”

“Yeah… sure. Hey… are you all right? Everything okay?”

Gabrielle had frozen at the touch of Claudia’s hand on her arm, but she forced herself to relax. She just needed to finish up her business with the Warehouse so she could go hide from people for a little bit and get herself beck under control. She lightly patted Claudia’s hand before removing it gently. “I’m fine,” she said, blinking the tiredness - and hopefully the burning, red rings - out of her eyes. “It’s just been a long few weeks.”

Claudia nodded and turned back to her screen, not willing to scrutinize Gabrielle too closely. She could feel the discomfort simmering just below the surface. “Hell… it’s been a damned long day,” she sympathized. “I know I feel like this day has been never-ending. I can’t imagine how you and the rest of the Guardians feel.”

Before Gabrielle could respond, the hallway door opened, and Batman stepped through the portal. He nodded sharply at Claudia, then focused his attention on Gabrielle, who cocked her eyebrow at him in question. He gave her a quirk of his lips. “Barbara asked me to tell you that they’re all right and will see you tomorrow.”

The second brow shot into her hairline at his pronouncement. “You’re sure?”

It couldn’t be seen - not with the mask covering his face - but Gabrielle actually felt Bruce’s eyebrow arch up. “I’m sure,” he replied, with a hint of humor, though he was confident only Gabrielle would pick up on it. “Helena got her settled and Dinah made sure they all had MREs and water before she and Helena headed to their hammocks. They turned the lights down as I was leaving the jet.”

Gabrielle nodded slowly. She knew out of all of their friends, the Birds understood more than most about her and Xena’s alternate natures. She blew out a breath. “Sounds good. Now why don’t you go on to your room and get some sleep? We’ve still got a lot of work to do in the next few days, and all that latex….” She gestured up and down his body. “I can’t imagine it being very comfortable after a while.”

“You’d be surprised,” he smirked, though they both heard Claudia mutter the same thing under her breath. They turned toward her simultaneously, and she blushed, though she met their eyes steadily.

“What? If you take care of it and it wears correctly, it can be as comfortable as leather. Cheaper too.” She rapped on Batman’s chest covering, “unless it’s custom molded,” she snarked. She looked at Gabrielle. “Mrs. Frederick is asking for you again. Apparently, the Sword is getting frisky… even in the neutralizer.”

“Oh, for fu.… If you’ll excuse me,” she said to them both - more than a hint of irritation in her voice this time - then she turned on her heel and headed into the bowels of the Warehouse. Claudia and Batman watched her go, then he cleared his throat lightly.

“If you’ll excuse me….”

“Oh yeah, yeah… sure. You know where to go, right?”

He nodded. “Yes, thank you.” He entered the apartment corridor and closed the door soundlessly behind himself. Claudia turned back to her computer and went back to work.

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

Gabrielle took slow steps to get to the bronzing area. She knew she had to get there - to get the Sword under control - but she knew better than even Mrs. Frederick could understand that she had to be in control of all her faculties for it to work. And right at the moment, she was hovering at the edge of her control. The burning in her blood was almost overwhelming due to any number of factors, and she could feel her tenuous control slipping. It had been a long time since she’d felt so…. She closed her eyes and stood still, focusing on her breathing until her heart rate had slowed to something manageable and her blood didn’t feel like a fire ready to consume her.

She wasn’t surprised to find Mrs, Frederick standing beside her when she opened her eyes, and yet, she was stunned to feel the woman’s arm across her shoulders. No one but Xena got that close to her without her knowing… certainly not when she was a keyed up as she felt presently. Gabrielle kept her breathing slow and steady and met dark eyes filled with concern.

“Irene?”

“Are you all right, Gabrielle?” she asked, holding eyes that were still yellow and rimmed with red. “Claudia alerted us to your expected arrival, but when you didn’t arrive, we became… concerned. You know how the Warehouse plays with its agents at times.” There was a hint of humor in her expression, though her lips never quirked into a smile.

Gabrielle’s smile was grim at best, though Mrs. Frederick appreciated the effort. “Yes, but the Warehouse learned a long time ago that neither Xena nor I was a typical agent.” Her smile became a little more real when she felt the chuckle rumble through Irene’s frame.

“Truer words,” Irene agreed. “Are you all right, then? Or perhaps the better question would be - are you able to continue? I wouldn’t have asked, but I am not entirely certain Arthur and I can handle this particular artifact. Its power is something beyond anything we’ve tried to contain before.”

“Yeah… I’m pretty sure its legacy actually began before the Warehouse was a glimmer in anyone’s eyes. There are only a few people that could handle it, and Xena and I both earned the right… not that it was ever something either of us wanted.”

Mrs. Frederick started them slowly walking toward the bronze section. “Maybe not, but it does recognize your right.”

Gabrielle snorted. “That may not be a good thing right now. I need you and Artie to be ready to neutralize us both if it looks like I’m going to do something stupid.”

“You really think you would?”

“I think I’m closer to losing control of a lot of things than I have been since before Xena came back into my life. I can only hope Saligia suffers for eternity for all the shit he’s put everyone through.”

“I don’t think there was enough left of him, Gabrielle. We saw what happened… at least most of it. Claudia was running the drone, and we had an excellent view until we lost the picture. It honestly looked as though he blew up into molecules.”

“Well, then… I hope every single molecule suffers for eternity. Couldn’t happen to a better guy.”

Mrs. Frederick wisely decided not to respond.

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

Helena had placed Barbara as gently as possible on the medical bed ensconced in the Batplane, before she stood and started to move away. Barbara’s hand on her wrist halted her movement, and she turned back to Barbara with a tremulous smile.

“Kitten?”

“I’m just gonna get you another blanket and grab….” Dinah crossed the threshold then. “Or, you know, the Kid’ll make sure you get something to eat,” chuckling at the face Barbara made before she could school her expression. “Yeah… I think we all feel that way. But it’s the best we’ve got for the next few days, and we’ve gotta eat.” She moved out of the medical area and walked the few steps to the bedding HG and Myka had brought for them. “Here. I think this is the warmest.”

“Hel? Sit down with me a minute?” indicated the sliver of space left on the bed. Helena sat, and Barbara reached up a hand and pushed the unruly, dark hair off of Helena’s face. “Are you all right?”

“Yeah… yeah. Just… it’s been a long, long day.”

“You’re sure?” knowing pushing too hard would cause her younger lover to withdraw. Helena nodded hesitantly.

“Yeah. I’m just a little… I dunno… off balance, maybe. Whatever Darius did….” She turned her head and called out to Dinah, who had moved back to the outer area of the plane to give Barbara and Helena as much privacy as possible. “Hey, D… how ya feeling?”

Dinah groaned slightly as she rolled out of her hammock and padded back to the narrow doorway. “Like I got hit by a Mac truck,” she replied drolly. “You?”

“Not what I meant, but….” She paused and considered her answer a moment. “Same, actually,” Helena admitted. “I can’t figure out how Gabrielle and Xena are still standing.”

Barbara studied guileless blue eyes and realized Helena was telling the truth. Wherever her initial reaction had come from once the battle was over, she was telling the truth about how she felt now. “And how are things between the two of you?” pushing the point Helena had been trying to make earlier.

Dinah and Helena looked at one another, trying to find a good answer to give. Finally, they both shrugged. “It’s weird,” Dinah said. “I’m aware of her but not like we were before. She’s not affecting me like she was. And I don’t think I’m pulling too much from her either.”

“You’re not. I can still sense you, but it’s not overwhelming. I didn’t feel like I needed to stop what I was doing because you might get hurt by it. So whatever Darius did worked.”

“And you’re sure you’re all right? Both of you?” looking between them. They glanced at each other and shrugged again before turning back to her.

“We’re fine, Baby,” Helena said softly, though the smirk she offered was sin itself. “Want me to show you?”

“Hel!” Dinah cringed as she stomped her foot and put her hands on her hips. “You suck.”

“Um hmm. I lick and bite too,” grinning at Dinah lecherously. “Wanna try?” waggling her eyebrows and starting to move toward Dinah… who squealed and ran. Helena chuckled.

Barbara blushed but couldn’t hold back the smile that graced her lips. “That was mean.”

Helena shrugged. “Maybe, but I bet you believe me now,” eyes on the MRE in her hand. Barbara combed through her hair, pushing it back off her face again and scratching the base of her neck. She grinned when Helena leaned into the touch and purred.

Barbara chuckled. “Hedonist,” she whispered, accepting the packet Helena had just opened for her. She leaned back into the upright bed and sighed.

“Tired?” Helena asked solicitously, digging into her own meal without a wince. She had reached a level of hungry she seldom had to deal with, and now it was a matter of getting sustenance into her as quickly as possible… taste be damned. Though, she had to secretly admit - if only to herself - that they really weren’t half bad. Which was a good thing for her as it looked like it was going to take about half a dozen of them before she got anywhere close to her necessary caloric intake.

Barbara nodded. “Yeah. I don’t think I’ve ever been this exhausted, and considering some of the hours we keep….”

Helena nodded slowly. “I’d like to talk to you about that actually,” watching green eyes widen in alarm. “Not right now… maybe when we get back to Gotham.”

Barbara placed her food on the nearby tray and took the empty wrapper Helena was twisting anxiously in her hands and set it aside. She caught Helena’s hands in her own and held on. “Hel?”

Helena kept her head down and blinked furiously, determined to permit Barbara to see her discomfort. Barbara allowed her that privacy and waited for Helena to speak. “When we were out there in the midst of all that craziness - just before the talismans came together and destroyed Saggy - I had a moment that….” She sucked in a deep breath and swallowed hard. She didn’t hear Dinah come in, but she leaned back into her embrace when those lean arms wrapped around her and leant her strength. She looked up and met Barbara’s eyes. “I had a moment when it felt like you were all gone from me. All of you - you, D… even Bruce. I was completely alone.” She closed her eyes. “It was worse than when Maman died; it was crippling,” knowing Barbara would understand her choice of words. She swallowed again and counted to ten, feeling the pain lance through her again as though it had happened all over again. Dinah reached out a hand and covered one of Barbara’s allowing her to feel what Helena was feeling, and it was all Barbara could do to keep from retching.

“Hel?”

Helena shook her dark head, causing her hair to fall into her eyes again. “I know it’s important… the work that we do; and I know it means everything to you. I just… I don’t know if I can do it anymore. Or at least do it all the time.” She shook her head again. “I know what it feels like to lose you - to lose everything - even if it was only in my imagination; even if it was only for a moment. I know what I would become, and there aren’t many who could take me down.” She patted the hands resting on her chest that tightened at her words. “You couldn’t handle me, D… not even as strong as you are. I would be something beyond what I’ve ever been… more animal than human, and if those instincts took over…” She shrugged and looked at the ground. “I know it doesn’t make sense for me of all people to be talking like this, but….”

“It makes perfect sense, Kitten,” Barbara said, tapping her chin and bringing Helena’s eyes up to meet hers. “And we’ll talk about this. Maybe we can add more women to our team to give you and Dinah a break. Maybe we’ll disband the Birds and move to Themiscyra. I don’t know. We’ve got a lot of things to sort through after everything that happened tonight. I know I’m not good at talking about things,” causing both younger women to roll their eyes and smirk. Barbara shook her head. “Yeah, yeah… I know. But we’re going to make the effort. This is important for all of us. And we’re worth it.”

“Yeah, we are,” Dinah agreed, squeezing Helena as tightly as she could manage.

Helena patted her hands and stood, causing Dinah to tighten her hold and end up on Helena’s back. She cut her eyes in Dinah’s direction. “Not your personal pony, D, though we do need to do some serious strength training for you,” causing Dinah to squawk in outrage. Helena turned and headed out the door, dragging Dinah along with her. “C’mon. I’m still hungry.”

Dinah sputtered but allowed herself to be shuttled back to her hammock, courtesy of Helena, who dropped her unceremoniously. Then she grabbed up a handful of meals and walked back to the tiny infirmary to sit with Barbara, who couldn’t stop laughing at their antics. Helena turned at the doorway and met Dinah’s eyes, giving her a wink before she disappeared.



Chapter XCIII

“Gabrielle, you wanna tell me how we ended with the Sword of War instead of the Hope Talisman?” Artie demanded as she and Mrs. Frederick came around the corner. She looked at him and smiled - eyes golden with red rims and teeth long and sharp. He took an involuntary step back. “Nevermind… it’ll wait.”

“I’ll just bet,” Gabrielle growled, still smiling fiercely. “Where’s the Sword?”

Artie picked up the large bag that had been twitching on the table beside him, wincing when the Sword began to struggle. Mrs. Frederick stepped forward and reached toward Artie, but Gabrielle’s hand on her belly halted all movement. Irene looked down in surprise - most people didn’t touch her arbitrarily. But she recognized Gabrielle’s authority, and she stopped walking forward, deliberately taking a step back.

“Irene?!” Artie screamed, being swung around by the Sword until he was stumbling in Gabrielle’s direction. She held up her hand, landing the Sword into her palm and ending Artie’s movement. She put her other hand on both of his - that were clutching the hilt of the Sword - and he met her eyes warily.

“Relax,” she smirked. “Loosen your grip, Artie. The sooner we let this guy rest, the better for all of us, I think.”

“Really?? You think??” The Sword jerked out of her grasp and swung him in a circle; only Gabrielle’s quick reflexes allowed her to duck before the still <supposedly> neutralized Sword could try to decapitate her. She glared in Artie’s direction, and he dropped the hilt, letting the Sword fall to the ground.

“Back up,” Gabrielle barked, smirking when Artie scrambled so fast to get away from her and the Sword that he almost ran into a wall. Mrs. Frederick steadied him, and they turned their attention to Gabrielle. Gabrielle walked around slowly until she was standing at the hilt end of the Sword. “Do you have a receptacle we can place the Sword into or…?”

“No… why would we?” Artie asked impatiently. “It goes in the bronzer and gets bronzed. It stays there for eternity. End of story.”

Before Gabrielle could move and impress upon Artie the foolishness of his smart mouth demeanor, Mrs. Frederick stepped into the breech. “Arthur, the Sword is not like a human being. It will not simply stand there of its own accord. Attaching it to the wall will mean the bronzing process will be insufficient in its present configuration. Therefore, we will need some sort of receptacle for the Sword to be placed in to allow it to be covered.”

“Right, right… of course,” Artie agreed as he calmed down. He looked at Gabrielle. “Do you think we could fasten it to a table or something similar? I think I might have an idea.”

She met his eyes with glowing ones of her own. “Whatever idea you’ve got, let’s move along. I don’t know how much longer….”

Irene moved forward but stopped when Gabrielle shook her head vehemently. She turned back to Artie and met his eyes seriously. “Hurry, Arthur. Get whatever you think we’ll need, but hurry. We don’t have much time.” She turned back to Gabrielle, who was squatting beside the Sword, hands covering her face. Artie nodded, and, in one of the very few times since she’d know him, he ran.

Irene pulled out her cellphone and tapped a number she hoped she’d never have to use.

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

“Do you think Saggy is gone?” Bo asked Lauren as they lay curled around one another in the dark, having eaten their fill of a few MREs. “‘Cause I gotta be honest - I don’t know if I could do this again.”

Lauren nodded. “I really do. I know with all the running around you were doing, you couldn’t see a lot of what was going on, but when the power from the Talisman and the Sword combined and hit him….” She shook her head. “You know some of those cool fireworks we saw when we were in Japan last New Year’s Eve? The ones that had the oval shape that went up and down as well as side-to-side?”

“The ones I said were kind of sci-fi looking? Like planets exploding or something?”

“Yeah. That’s kinda what happened to Saligia for the brief moment I could see before it got too bright to see anything but an x-ray of the inside of my eyelids.”

“I think I must have been dazed or something. I don’t remember that clearly.”

“Well, given the pile of bodies I was moving off of you at one point…. you know… for already dead people, there were some pretty solid weights on top of you both. In fact, Helena saved your life. She took the brunt of that pile-up.”

“I know. We’ll definitely have to take some time to get to know her… and, you know, thank her.”

Lauren yawned, quickly followed by Bo. “Tomorrow, though, right?”

Bo kissed Lauren briefly on the lips and pulled the cover up over them further. “Definitely tomorrow.” Slowly, their breathing deepened, and soon there was only the sound of light snoring in the room.

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

“Dear God… I am so sore,” Helen Magnus complained as she gingerly seated herself on the bed. “And I owe you an apology.”

“Magnus… Helen….”

“No, Kate. I let you down by walking out and letting you think you weren’t important enough to support.”

“Why did you?”

“The short answer?” A nod. “This place,” whirling her finger around to motion to the Warehouse, “this Warehouse… it’s full of things that affect me differently because I am longer-lived than most humans. It pushed me to a point that I was ready to take a swing at you… because it was your fault I was here.”

Kate’s shoulders dropped and she turned her back. “Oh… I didn’t know you felt….”

“I didn’t - I don’t.” She put her hands on Kate’s shoulders, feeling her flinch but refusing to let her go. “I wish I could explain how it felt - like ants crawling on my skin and bees buzzing in my brain. All I could think of was my need to get away.”

“So why did you come back?”

“For you,” Helen said simply. “Xena reminded me that you couldn’t do this alone and that it was an honor to stand together with you. You didn’t ask for the responsibility any more than I did. But you were strong enough to do this, so the least I could do was make sure you had the best watching your back.”

Kate chuckled. “Pretty sure of yourself there, Magnus.”

“I’ve had years to work on it. C’mere,” turning Kate in her arms and wrapping her in a hug. Kate was surprised - they didn’t share much physical contact with Magnus… none of them. She wasn’t about to waste the opportunity, however, and returned the hug in full measure. “I’m sorry,” she whispered again, feeling Kate nod her acceptance of the apology against her chest. Eventually, Helen loosened her grip slightly, and Kate leaned back just enough to meet blue eyes, dark circles full beneath them.

“Is this place still weirding you out?”

Helen nodded. “Yeah, but not like before.” She shrugged. “I dunno. Maybe the explosion knocked my senses for a loop or something, but for now, it’s just a little… odd.”

“Well, how about you and me put those odd feelings to bed and get some shut-eye? I dunno about you, but I’m beat.”

“Same.” She turned Kate towards one of the single beds and pushed her gently. “Go crawl in, and I’ll get the lights.” She waited until Kate was settled before plunging the room into darkness. “Hey, Kate?”

“Yeah?”

“Thanks.”

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

“How ya feeling, Maur?” Jane asked as she watched Maura slowly brushing her hair. Maura kept her eyes fastened on the mirror but allowed them to focus on Jane. She tilted her head in thought.

“Honestly?” pausing her brushing and waiting for Jane to nod. “Aside from exhausted, I feel… good - like we did something that matters here tonight. I know the story can’t get out beyond those that are here, but I think we made a difference that will… I don’t know. I don’t think it will change the world necessarily - the seven deadly sins are woven into the very fabric of our psyches - but maybe we’ll stop and think a little more before making a bad choice.” She shrugged and started brushing again. “I do think not having Saligia around trying to destroy us is a bonus,” giving Jane a smirk.

Jane chuckled. “I’ll agree with that. Now come to bed,” she said, lifting the covers and raising an eyebrow. “You look beautiful as always, and I don’t know about you, but I could use a few hours of sleep.”

Maura yawned at the suggestion, then glared at Jane… who promptly yawned as well, causing Maura to laugh lightly. “Well,” she replied, dropping her brush on the table and rising from the vanity, “since you put it that way….” She slid into the bed and wrapped herself in Jane’s arms, who released her just long enough to switch off the bedside lamp. Maura clutched the front of Jane’s favorite Red Sox t-shirt, and Jane covered her hand, knowing Maura was working up to saying something she wasn’t completely confident in sharing. She felt her heart break all over again.

After several moments of fitful silence, she cleared her throat quietly and brushed a kiss over Maura’s forehead. “What is it, Sweetheart?”

Maura sighed. “I want to go to New York when we leave here. I’d like to talk to Xena a little more in depth about my head and what’s wrong with me.”

Jane reached over and turned on the light again, shifting until she was looking into Maura’s eyes. “Maur?”

“I did some research when we first met them - you know that,” getting the crooked smile and twinkling eyes she loved so much. She smiled in reflex. “One of the things I found was that Xena is well-versed in a number of medical disciplines.”

“Well-versed as in…?”

Maura nodded. “As in she holds doctorates in all of them.”

“And is one of her specialties neurology?”

“Not precisely… not that I’ve been able to find yet. But she is an expert in trauma medicine. She might have some insights that a typical neurologist might not even consider.”

Jane nodded slowly. “If that’s what you want to do, Babe, you know I’ll be right beside you every step of the way.”

Maura leaned up and kissed Jane slowly, smiling into the kiss when she was pulled closer. “I love you, Jane Rizzoli,” she whispered when they parted.

“I love you back, Maura Isles. We’ll get through this, yeah?”

“Yeah… but after we get some rest. Goodnight, Love.”

“Night, Maura-mine,” clicking off the light again and settling down to sleep.

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

Alex absently rubbed at her chest, though there was nothing wrong with it that she could find - no cuts or bruises; no bleeding or broken bones. But she rubbed it anyway, hoping to smooth away the uneasiness she still felt in her chest. Olivia grabbed her hand and pulled Alex to the bed, kissing the knuckles before she tucked her in and moved around to climb into the other side.

“You all right?” shutting off the light as she settled in.

Alex considered slowly. “All things considered? Yeah. Just a heaviness in my chest.”

“Maybe you should’ve gone back with Xena. She could’ve started your treatment.”

“Yeah… no. First of all, I want you with me throughout the whole process. I need you there,” holding up a hand before Olivia could speak. She zipped her lips shut. “Secondly, there was no way I was going to go back and take the place of someone that needed critical care. We both know whatever treatment she is able to come up with, it’s going to be a long-term undertaking, and some of those….” She shook her head. “Did you see Lucy and that other woman? The one that got scalped?” She bit her lip. “Thirdly, there is still a lot of work to do here, and I think we need to be part of that.”

Olivia nodded. “You’re right,” watching Alex preen at her acknowledgment. She rolled over until she could rest her head on Alex’s chest and wrapped possessive arms around the slim waist as she yawned. “C’mon, Love. I’m tired. Let’s get some sleep.”

Her only answer was the slow, deep breaths that matched her own.

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

“I wonder what it would take for Xena to teach me some of those techniques,” Janet mused as she sat on the edge of the bed she and Sam were sharing. She looked over her shoulder. “What do you think?”

“I think you’ve got nothing to lose by asking,” Sam answered without hesitation. “The worst she could say would be ‘no’, and I don’t think she’s that petty.” She twisted her head slowly from side to side. “My neck is killing me.”

Janet frowned. “Mine too, now that you mention it,” crawling in beside Sam and waiting for her to turn out the light before she cuddled closer. “I know I was pretty tense before we went out to the battlefield. Likely it just got exponentially worse when we started fighting. Frankly, a lot of that is a blur.”

“Yeah… same for me. I’m a little concerned about Daniel, though. I kinda expected to see him when it was over.”

“Maybe he had to go answer for his actions to the other Ascended.”

Sam growled, and Janet patted her chest. “The older I get, the less I care for those… people… and their ridiculousness and nonsensical rules.”

“Hopefully, we’ll hear from him soon.”

“I hope so,” Sam agreed as a wave of lethargy rolled over her and caused her to yawn widely and push herself more firmly into the mattress. Janet followed a beat behind her, and in moments they were sleeping soundly. From a dark corner in the room, Daniel watched them for a moment longer, then smiled and disappeared from sight.

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

“Irene! Now’s not really a good time,” Xena yelled over the ruckus taking place around her. Kurt had been more than efficient, and she was gently handing out her patients to her waiting teams, who placed them on the gurneys they’d lined up to receive the injured women. “Take her to the third trauma room. It’s best equipped to deal with her burns. And call Johnson in to handle it. He’s the best man I’ve got for this.”

“Right here, Chief. I’ll take care of Ms. Grant,” wheeling the gurney away with his team. They didn’t often get called in on consults here, but it was always a doozy of a case when they did. This was the first time, however, that Johnson or any of the others could remember so many of them being present at the same time. It made them curious, but not enough to ask questions now. There would be time for that later… hopefully.

“Xena, it’s Gabrielle,” Irene broke into the chaos again, her words causing Xena to halt all movement and simply breathe for a moment. She was mostly under control - partly because she had so much clamoring for her attention, and partly because she was a long way from the Sword of War. She released a slow breath and tapped Diana on the shoulder.

“Consort?”

“I need you to finish getting everyone onto the gurneys.” She motioned to a woman that had been standing to one side, awaiting instructions. “Elizabeth, I need you to take over. Call Callie Torres about consulting on Lucy and call Shepherd and Austin to consult on Shaw and Ian respectively. They’re waiting for your call. Everyone else you need is already here.”

“We’ll handle it, Chief. Go take care of your other stuff. I’m sure we’ll see you checking in shortly.”

Xena nodded. “Thanks, guys. Kara, can you hold us steady long enough for Diana and me to change places?”

Kara nodded slowly. “Do my best.” though it was clear she was unsure of how good her best might be. But before she could move from her seat, they all felt a bump on the underside of the jet, then no movement at all. They didn’t pause to question; Xena and Diana traded places and Xena turned her attention back to her phone call.

“Irene, put me on FaceTime and leave the room. Don’t let anyone back in until Gabrielle calls for you specifically, got it?”

Mrs. Frederick nodded slowly, then passed the phone to Gabrielle before walking toward the door. It took Gabrielle a moment to accept it, and another to realize who was on the other end of the call. Her whole body relaxed at the compassion evident in the face staring back at her and the sound of Xena’s voice.

“Xe?” she whispered, shaking slightly, though enough for Xena to see her struggle.

“I’m right here, Baby. We’re gonna get through this, all right? Just you and me. No one’s gonna bother you until we ease some of the pressure you’ve got. Now… do you remember the night in Pompeii we shared together? When we were leaving Rome after Vercinix?”

Gabrielle closed her eyes and let Xena’s voice bring her through every touch and emotion they’d shared together. She felt the touches on her breasts and the tweaks of her nipples; the licks and nibbles as Xena traced her way down her body, marking her progress; the kiss on her lips as well as the forceful thrusts of Xena’s fingers. But it was the memory of the bite on her neck that they shared that had driven her to orgasm, and she let it roll through her until she could feel the burning subside… enough that she was no longer overwhelmed by her close proximity to the Sword.

“Better than being angry?” Xena asked, and Gabrielle could hear the smile in her voice.

“So much… you have no idea,” wincing when she shifted, but accepting it as part of the price she paid for the relief she felt.

“Yeah,” Xena laughed. “I probably do,” getting Gabrielle to laugh with her as they recalled other times they’d turned to each other instead of allowing their anger to overtake them. “It won’t last very long though, so put the Sword away, then go be by yourself for a while. It’s not the optimal solution….”

“But it’s the best one we’ve got right now. I know. Call me when you know something about… everyone?”

“I’ll give you an update as soon as I have something to share. Now… I have to get back to work. You gonna be okay?”

“At least for long enough to get this done. I love you.”

“Love you too,” Xena replied before the line went dead. Gabrielle closed her eyes to center herself. She couldn’t do anything about the scent of sex she could smell on herself, but she could get this done as quickly as possible so she could return to her room.

“Irene?” she called softly, waiting for the woman to appear in the doorway. “Let’s get this done.”


Chapter XCIV

Irene stepped into the room, quickly followed by Artie directing Pete and Jinks each carrying an end of a heavy, old-fashioned parallel bar. Myka and HG followed right behind them, and they set them down just inside one of the larger bronzing units that had been used for Agents that had needed to be subdued for the process. Artie had rolled in a familiar looking box with a dolly, though Gabrielle limited her reaction to a widening of her still-golden eyes. Pete was quick to relieve him of it as soon as he and Jinks had placed the first bar in the chamber.

“Holy crap, Artie! You got gold bars in here or something?” turning to find Gabrielle removing the box from his grasp. His jaw dropped as he watched her effortlessly lift the box and carry it into the bronzing chamber, open it, and remove the chains from within. Jinks stepped forward to help her, and she gave him low instructions, and in only a few minutes, each of the bars had two chains attached to it. Pete watched the proceedings with interest, then turned to Artie.

“So what’s with all this stuff? How can it help?” asked quietly to not disturb the work that was going on.

“The parallel bars belonged to Friedrich Ludwig Jahn - the man considered the father of modern gymnastics. They were used by so many young men in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century, that they eventually absorbed every ounce of weight put on them. It became impossible for anyone to use them,” Gabrielle replied, surprising them all. Pete had spoken barely above a whisper, and the tension in her body was painfully apparent. “The only reason you could carry them is because the neutralizer makes it possible to drop the tens of thousands of weight they’ve subsumed.”

“And the chains?” Myka asked. “The card said they were forged by Hephaestus, but….”

“They were forged by Hephaestus,” Gabrielle asserted, “meant to hold Ares when he became a little too… rambunctious… and the gods feared he might depose them all.”

“How did the Warehouse get ahold of them?”

“Short story? I knew where to find them. I figured they’d be safer here than almost anywhere else in the world.”

They all waited for a few more details, but when none were forthcoming, HG cleared her throat. “So now what?”

“Now, I remove καταστροφή και χάος from the neutralizer bag, and we chain it to the bars so it can be completely bronzed. In a few months, we’ll come back and check on it; it should be able to have the chains removed, and the chains and bars put back where they belong.”

“What’s that word you said? Katastrofí…kháos? Was it Greek?”

“Yes,” Myka answered, seeing Gabrielle had stiffened at Jinks’ question. “It’s Ancient Greek that means ruin and destruction.” She looked at Gabrielle. “He named the Sword of War that?”

“No… it came with that name,” she answered impatiently. “Can we get on with this please? It’s becoming increasing difficult for me to remain civil and in control.”

“Can we help, darling?” HG asked simply.

“If each of you would like to man a chain… once I take the Sword in hand, you’ll need to be very quick in securing the Sword to the bars with the chains. Irene? You and Artie need to have a good amount of neutralizer on hand and the guns to shoot me with it… just in case.” She widened her eyes and allowed her teeth to glisten. “No one wants me out of control and in charge of the Sword of War.”

Pete and Jinks had already started moving to the closest reservoir of neutralizer - one on either side of the bronzing room. The hoses they added were long enough to reach around the room, and they brought them in and handed one each to Artie and Mrs. Frederick. They assumed a place with Myka and HG in the bronzing chamber and picked up one of the unclaimed chains. Then they waited.

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

Xena took a deep breath and closed her eyes, counting to herself in an effort to bring her libido under control. Under any other circumstance, she and Gabrielle would have been in the same place and they could take care of the burning together. But that wasn’t possible now, and taking the edge off for Gabrielle had only heightened her own senses. She took another deep breath and released it slowly, knowing she had far more important things to be doing than sitting in Diana’s jet feeling horny. One more slow breath, and she opened her eyes, hoping they had cooled enough to not glow. She felt an unnatural stillness beside her and turned her head just enough to see a miserable looking Supergirl sitting next to her with her fingers stuffed in her ears. She might have blushed had she not been so keyed up and exhausted; as it was, she simply turned her attention to Kara, reaching out a hand but not touching.

Kara reacted to her proximity, stiffening in place, though it took a full minute for her to blink her eyes open and pull her hands from her head. “I’m sorry,” she whispered.

Xena frowned. “What for?”

“Um… voyeurism? I didn’t mean to overhear, but….”

“No… I’m sorry. I didn’t even think…. I never would have put you in that position if I’d have thought about it.”

Kara shook her head. “It’s fine. I mean… it blew my powers out, which was kind of a blessing. It kept me from hearing everything, but given the bits I heard, I think it was probably an emergency. Your eyes are still pretty glowy.” She didn’t mention the fangs she could just see extending below the normal tooth line.

Xena smirked. “I’ll just bet. But there’s not a lot I can do about it right now. Gabrielle’s not here, and I have a trauma unit full of patients that need care. But first….” She rose and held out her hand to Kara, waiting for her to accept it. She did so gingerly, and Xena smirked at her gently and teased, “I don’t bite unless you ask nicely and your name is Gabrielle,” grinning at the dark blush that colored Kara’s skin. “C’mon, Supergirl. Let’s get you inside to the sunroom. I’ve still got work to do, and Diana has business elsewhere.”

Xena’s teams had already removed all her patients into the trauma unit, and the cleanup team was almost done with their work. She jumped from the still hovering plane, then turned and caught Kara before she could hurt herself. Diana came up from beneath the plane and studied them both carefully.

“Everything all right, Consort?”

“For now. I’m gonna get Kara to the sunroom, then go downstairs and see how things are faring there. “Did you thank J’onn for his assistance?” motioning toward the underside of the plane and mentioning the hero she suspected had come to their rescue.

Diana shook her head. “I did thank Clark, though,” causing two pairs of blue eyes to widen in surprise. “He’s gonna ride back with me… see if he can help move things along in the morning.”

“I’ll be back as soon as I can,” Kara added.

Diana nodded. “With the three of us and all the human hands Gabrielle has to help, we could very well be done in a day or two.” She turned to Xena. “Consort? Do you have instructions for the dead?”

“Gabrielle has the letters we asked everyone to write before this started. I think she and Casey may have put everyone’s last wishes into a database. It’ll tell you what needs to be done with each body and who needs to be contacted. That may take a day or two as Gabrielle and I would prefer to contact everyone ourselves, but until we can do something about this,” gesturing to her face and its obvious Bacchae properties, “the notifications will have to wait.”

“We’ll take care of the last wishes. If we can get most of the rest of the work done tomorrow, I’ll make sure the Queen gets back here so the two of you can take care of this expediently. I don’t mean to intrude into your private lives, but we need the two of you back to yourselves as quickly as possible.”

“How long can you maintain that, anyway?” Kara asked.

Xena growled, and Supergirl stiffened, forcing herself not to step away from the danger she felt oozing from Xena in waves. “I don’t know. We’ve never had to be separated like this. I’m not even certain how much longer I can maintain my cognizance in this state; being Bacchae is all about feeling and emotion.”

“You’re doing really well, but you need to find your center, Consort,” Diana said though it was barely above a whisper. “You’re better than this - you’ve boasted of that very fact yourself. Time to put your money where your mouth is.”

Xena felt the rage at Diana’s impudence, but it didn’t burn hot. No… this was a cold fury, and that was something she could use to her advantage.

Kara reached out and turned Xena towards the door. “Go do what you need to do to help your trauma teams; I can find the sunroom on my own, and Diana and Clark can go take care of whatever they need to in South Dakota.”

Xena nodded but didn’t reply. She closed her eyes and willed herself to a calmness she hadn’t felt since the Talismans had started showing up again. When she felt her teeth recede back to their normal place and a light flush flow across her face, she turned still red-rimmed yellow eyes back to Diana. “Better?”

“Not perfect, but definitely better. Tell Mother….”

Xena nodded. “You know I will. Thank you, my friend. I owe you for that one.”

“Pretty sure that’s a payback, but we’ll worry about it later.” She climbed into her jet and took control, calling out to Superman, who flew from underneath the fuselage and waved awkwardly before sliding into place beside Wonder Woman. In another second, they were gone from view. Xena turned to Kara.

“C’mon, Supergirl. Let’s get you recharged. Then I’ve got patients to tend to.”

Kara let Xena guide them down the stairs and into the penthouse. Xena nodded at her. “Go ahead. Every moment counts for you. If you get done in there before I’m finished downstairs, come find me.” Kara saluted and gave the best ‘Sunny Danvers smile’ an exhausted superhero could manage. Then she turned toward the gym doors, stopping short when Xena called out to her. “You did great work tonight, Kiddo. I’m proud of you. Now make sure you get some sleep while you’re recharging as well, yeah? You’ll feel a whole lot better for it if you do.”

Without thinking, Kara ran back and wrapped her arms around Xena’s neck, squeezing tightly and relishing the reciprocal hug she got in return. “Thank you,” she whispered. “Thank you so much,” sniffing as she released her hold. Xena kept her hands on muscular biceps and slouched slightly trying to catch Kara’s eyes.

“For what?”

But Kara simply shook her head and pulled away lightly, expressing her need to be by herself for a little while. Xena brushed a kiss over her hair and let her go, watching until the gym door shut firmly behind her. Then she headed downstairs at a run, knowing the expenditure of energy would help her maintain her equilibrium.

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

It was a madhouse in the trauma unit - compared to the silence that reigned there most days - but it was a controlled chaos that Xena took comfort in. She slipped on a surgical mask and gloves and started her rounds. Hippolyta was in unit one, and Xena was surprised to find Callie Torres in the room with her, sewing up the tendons that had been cut through. Callie glanced at her briefly, then turned her attention back to her patient.

“Suction,” she called, and the nurse responded without hesitation. “Hey, Xena. I know you didn’t call me in here at ass o’clock in the morning for this, but I need to talk to you about the prosthetic before we go ahead with that surgery, and this needed doing. And whaddya know? It’s right up my alley.” She shook her head, and the nurse wiped the sweat away. “I dunno what happened to your girl here, but someone surely did a number on her.”

“Can you fix it?” knowing the answer she’d get but delighting in the confidence she could feel radiating from Callie. It had taken her years to find it again after the cluster that had brought her to New York had backfired spectacularly around her. Even then, it had taken until her ex-wife had moved and brought their daughter with her that she had become truly productive again.

“You wish you were funny,” Callie replied. “Suction. She might have a bit of a limp; there was a lot of damage back here. But she’s lucky… it was a clean cut. If she works really hard, you’ll probably never notice it unless she gets tired.”

Xena nodded. “Great. Come find me when you’re done.”

“You got it. Can you move that light for me a little?” she asked the nurse closest to her. “I’ve got a shadow over here and….” The rest of her words faded out as Xena closed the door behind her on her way to the next unit.

Cat Grant was in unit three, and Jeff Johnson was sitting patiently beside her carefully trimming away all the dead skin he could find. It was a slow-going process and a very precise one as well. He acknowledged Xena’s presence without looking up, eyes focused on the flesh canvas in front of him. “I’d be curious to know what kind of agent was used to create such a devastating burn.”

“Can we fix it?”

Jeff nodded. “With enough time? Yes… absolutely. But it’s going to take weeks.”

“All right. I’ll do what I can to take care of things on my end. You keep me posted on her progress and let me know if you need anything.”

“You know it, Chief.”

Holly Stewart occupied unit four and was alone when Xena poked her head in. She was resting comfortably - hooked up to monitors and IVs - and it was clear her bandage had been changed. “Nice work on that cut, Chief,” Elizabeth offered as she pushed them both further into the room. “It was clean; no signs of infection. We’ve got her set up on antibiotics, fluids and blood,” motioning to the IVs. “But she’s stable; no signs of fever. Things look good.”  She turned and met Xena’s yellow eyes. “How are you?”

“Been better, but I’m all right for the moment.”

“Here,” Elizabeth said, holding out her hand. “Diana said you might need these. I’m inclined to agree… at least as long as we have so many bodies in the trauma unit. Most of them don’t know you well enough to be privy to this side of your life. If you wanna keep it that way, you might wanna wear the contacts for now.”

Xena sighed but accepted the contacts, sticking them in her eyes and blinking rapidly to make sure they stuck where she needed them to be. “Better?”

Elizabeth pointed to the mirror over the sink. “You tell me.”

Xena walked over and washed her hands, casually glancing into the mirror, then doing a double take. Though the contacts Elizabeth had given her were blue, her eyes were closer to Gabrielle’s in color due to the sheer brightness of the yellow she was currently sporting. She tilted her head. “Not sure how I feel about Gabrielle’s eyes staring out of my head.”

Elizabeth shrugged. “Still better than yellow and red, and hopefully, it won’t be for too long. Shepherd and Austin are both waiting for you to FaceTime with them about Shaw and Ian. I think they want to see the patient they are supposed to be helping.”

“Are they flying in?”

“Yeah, but it still puts them hours away. I had the nurses give all three of them - Shaw, Ian, and Lucy - a sedative to keep them quiet for a little while longer. They don’t need to be moving around too much.”

“All right. Keep an eye on things here. I’m going to my office so I can make those calls privately.”

“Tell the Queen I said ‘hello’,” said with a sly grin.

“I’ll be quick,” though she couldn’t hide the twinkle in her eyes.

“Take the time you need. I don’t see anyone getting out of here anytime soon.”

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

Gabrielle pulled the Sword of War from the neutralizing bag and felt its seductive power flow through her as a physical sensation. Her eyes flashed and glowed and her teeth elongated back to their maximum length. She spared a moment to be thankful for the relief Xena had given her - without it, she would be drowning. As it was, she recognized she had very little time to get this done. She raised the Sword and watched it catch the dark light, shimmering along its length, and she closed her eyes to keep from becoming mesmerized by it. After a moment, she reopened them and started to make her way to the bronzing chamber.

When the Sword realized her intent, it started to fight her… intent on keeping its power intact. She gripped the hilt harder and turned her head to meet Mrs. Frederick’s eyes. “Now, Irene,” she whispered, and immediately felt the chill of the neutralizer hit both her and the Sword. She stood still to give them a better target, and when they were both completely coated, she nodded and said, “Enough.” It took a couple seconds longer before the stream ended, and she slowly and carefully made her way into the chamber.

The four Agents waiting for her didn’t say a word. They merely waited for her to place the Sword on the parallel bars before they began chaining it in place. Pete and Jinks took care of crossing it from top to bottom across the middle, while Myka took the tip and HG the hilt of the Sword. They were quick and finished in record time… except for HG, who was waiting for Gabrielle to release the hilt.

“Darling, I need you to take your hands off the hilt so I can wrap the remainder of the chain around it to secure it for bronzing.”

“I’d love to,” Gabrielle answered drolly. “I appear to be attached to it,” causing the others to move toward her. “I think it’s a combination of the strength of the bars and the unwillingness of the Sword to be put away. The Sword wants me to stay, and the bars are strong enough to allow it.”

“She’s right,” Pete agreed softly. “The Sword doesn’t want to be left alone. It never has been, and it’s scared to be now.”

“So what do we do?”

Before Artie or Mrs. Frederick could make a suggestion, Pete took Jinks by the shoulders and moved him against one wall. “HG, put your chains on the floor, and you and Mykes stand over there,” pointing to the opposite wall. “You need to be ready to move as soon as Gabrielle is free.”

“What are you…?” then Gabrielle went flying into Jinks - which was painful for both of them… especially when Pete landed right on top of them… but not nearly as detrimental as it would have been had Gabrielle hit the wall flying at full force. The three of them lay in a heap for a moment trying to breathe, and HG and Myka rushed forward to wrap the final chain around the hilt and bar. When they were done, they offered a hand to each of their comrades, pulling to their feet and out of the chamber.

“Is everyone all right?” Mrs. Frederick asked solicitously, even as Artie started the bronzing process. Gabrielle covered her ears, and after a moment, the deed was done.

“Let’s get everyone out of here for now. We can worry about cleaning up the mess when we’re sure the Sword is settled, and the Doc has a chance to check you all out.”

Gabrielle shook her head. “I’m going to my room, and I don’t want to be disturbed for anything less than Armageddon.” She walked off without another word.

Artie started to argue but was stopped by Mrs. Frederick before he could start. The rest exchanged significant glances but remained quiet as they all trooped back to the office.



Chapter XCV

Sam and Brooke lay back to front on the single bunk. They had tried sleeping separately, but that hadn’t lasted long before Sam crawled down from the top bunk and in beside Brooke. It was crowded, but they were more comfortable that way. Olivia and Natalie had ended up in the same trailer as Sam and Brooke, but their injuries had kept them apart. Natalia had ended up with a dislocated elbow and shoulder - fortunately on the same arm - but it had needed elevation. So Sam gave her the pillow she’d been using when she moved down to Brooke’s cot. Olivia was pouting about being separated from Natalia, but the strongest emotion she felt was fury, and it was simmering just beneath the surface.

She was angry about a number of things - the damage that had been visited upon Natalia; the fact that Natalia hadn’t been evacuated with the rest… though Natalia had refused to go even to the local hospital until the morning; she wouldn’t even consider being transported to New York with Xena. Olivia fretted over her own injuries - her vanity played into this - she had been slashed by fingernails that had been honed to razor sharpness and had left deep, scarring marks on her face. Even the best plastic surgeon wouldn’t be able to erase them completely. But more than all this was the fact that Emma wanted to leave the relative safety of Springfield, to go to New York to stay with the people that had caused all this.

“You’re being unfair,” Natalia spoke into the charged silence, startling Olivia with the accuracy of her mind-reading. “We made the choice to be here, Olivia. We knew there would be consequences. You don’t get to be angry at Xena and Gabrielle because they were worse than you expected; and you don’t get to take it out on Jellybean because it didn’t turn out like you wanted it to.”

“Who is Jellybean?” Sam asked sleepily.

“None of your damn business,” Olivia growled.

“Olivia!!”

“But….”

“No buts!” Natalia snapped. “You’re not going to offend our friends or potential friends because you’re in a bad mood. NO!” Natalia continued when she felt Olivia take a breath to argue. “You need to lay there and be quiet until you calm down. You don’t want to say something you’ll regret, and if you keep this up, you’re going to end up with more than regrets.” A beat. “I love you, Olivia. Don’t forget that.”

“I’m sorry,” Sam whispered. “I didn’t mean to start anything.”

“You didn’t. Jellybean is our daughter, Emma.” Natalia chuckled softly. “I really shouldn’t call her Jellybean anymore. She’s fifteen now and being called Jellybean embarrasses her.”

Olivia snickered. “That’s why we do it,” drawing chuckles from the rest of the women in the room.

Miranda spoke up. “That’s true. My girls got to where they hated being called Bobbsey… especially when they were teenagers. They’re young women now, but I do still call them Bobbsey… at least privately. They’ve learned to be a little more tolerant of it… and me.”

“I never minded the nicknames as much as I did when Mom would call me by my full name. That always made me cringe,” Sam mumbled.

“Okay, I think that’s true no matter how old you get,” Nora commented.

“It’s worse when it comes from your Grandmère, because she never had to raise her voice. But the layers of disappointment were enough to guilt you for weeks… at least.” Everyone winced at Nikki’s words, knowing them for truth. “Ow,” she groaned as she tried to shift off her back. “Damn. I’d love to find the elephant that fell on me.”

There were a few sympathetic chuckles that ran around the room. “I’m pretty sure I got run over by a cement mixer,” Abby Scuito commented. “I’ve gotta tell you guys… for dead people, some of those folks weighed a ton. Whatever happened to ashes and dust??” causing laughter all around.

“In fairness, these weren’t like normal dead people,” Emily Prentiss commented, pulling JJ further into her body and drawing more sniggers from the exhausted women around her.

“What she said,” Garcia agreed.

“Well, whatever they were, I’m glad they’re gone. I’m glad Saggy is gone,” Sam mumbled. “Don’t get me wrong - I was glad to be able to do this; thrilled to be allowed to help make a difference. But I’m not in any hurry to do something like this again either.”

“Do you think we did… make a difference, I mean?” Jill Bernhardt asked. All eyes turned to Sam, and her eyes widened in response. She was supposed to ask the questions… not answer them. She shifted a little and sat up slightly; Brooke followed her as a matter of course to keep Sam wrapped in her arms. She looked around and cleared her throat.

“Yeah,” she said after a thoughtful pause. “Yeah, I do. We helped defeat the dead army the Horseman brought along… and for the record, I hope they find some peace in death this time; we helped strengthen the Guardians. We watched Saligia get blown to kingdom come by the Hope Talisman, and I’d like to think we contributed to that too.” She scrubbed a hand over her eyes. “I don’t think disposing of him will get rid of all the ills of the world - they’ve been around almost as long as mankind has been on this planet. But maybe they won’t get any worse. Maybe without him around to influence them and all of us, maybe eventually we can work toward making things better.” She shrugged. “I dunno.”

“I think that sounds good, Sugar,” Nikki replied. “I’m sure we’ll all see it a little more positively when we’re a lot less sore and a little less tired.”

“We should probably get some sleep, then,” Lindsay Boxer said plainly. “We’ve got a lot to do tomorrow.”

There was a little grumbling and groaning as everyone settled down as comfortably as could be managed. Then they only sound to be heard was that of breathing as each of them fell asleep.

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

“Amy?” Scud called as she and the rest of the women with her headed toward where their trailer was quartered. She turned and looked at him, waiting for him to continue. “When you get back to your place, can you tell Janet…?”

“Why don’t you come tell her yourself?” she invited, though her eyes still held a sheen of tears.

“Because she and Max had to carry Dom back between them. I don’t wanna get in the way if… you know, they needed to take care of her or something. But you’re part of them.”

Amy released Casey’s hand that she’d been holding tight to and ran over to Scud, who opened his arms and embraced her with everything that he had. He knew how he felt about the injuries Lucy had sustained; he could only imagine how much worse it was for Amy.

“She’ll be all right,” he whispered in her ear as he held her to him. “She’s Lucy Diamond, and nothing cuts a diamond, you know.”

Amy nodded her head against his neck. “I know. And Xena really is the best. It’s just hard, you know?”

He kissed her head. “Yeah… I know. Pass that on to Janet for me, and I’ll see you guys in the morning, yeah? We’ve still got a lot of cleanup to do… which, for the record, the Boss got out of pretty slick.”

Amy’s chuckle was watery, but it still brought a lopsided smile to Scud’s face. “I’d noticed that,” she confided. “I noticed that about both bosses. A little convenient, if you asked me… almost like they planned it or something.”

”Or something,” Scud remarked. He released her gently and patted her back. “Go on. Things might not be any better in the morning, but I bet they look a damn sight better in the sunshine.”

“Hope so,” she commented quietly. “Night, Scud.”

“Night, Amy.”

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

Scud watched as Amy rejoined her comrades, and they disappeared into the total darkness surrounding the bare light the Fae had left shining on the battlefield area where the dead where currently gathered together, laid out neatly in rows. Scud bowed his head and crossed himself, keeping his eyes closed until he felt a hand on his shoulder.

“You all right, man?” Dyson asked him. There was blood on his shirt, though he swore none of it was his. And in fairness, there didn’t seem to be a mark on him. Scud opened his eyes slowly and nodded.

“Yeah. Just saying a prayer for all those folks,” motioning to the dead. “I’m a mostly lapsed Catholic, but sometimes the old habits seem appropriate.”

Will nodded. “Part-time Methodist… same,” he agreed.

“Since there’s nothing we can do for them beyond pray, can we head back to the trailer?” Henry asked. “It’s cold out here… especially since we’re just standing still now. Besides, I dunno about you guys, but all the vibration from that Talisman is still burning in my veins.”

“Yeah. I want a few hours of sleep before somebody comes knocking in the morning.” As one, they turned and headed back to their home-away-from-home. It wasn’t long before the only sound was snoring coming from inside.

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

Trick and Darius sat inside his RV silently, drinking their beer and watching the Fae who had volunteered to keep watch over the dead. They kept a steady cadence around the perimeter, moving slowly but steadily to ensure they were alert and aware of everything going on around them. Periodically, one would leave the group, to be replaced by a fresh body, and Trick nodded his approval. This way, everyone would get some rest and they would each get a chance to watched over the dead… a ritual that was highly respected in their culture.

When he was finished with his beer, Darius turned to Trick. “How’d she know?” he asked, causing Trick to frown at him in confusion. “How’d Gabrielle know to write a story… and what story she needed to tell?”

Trick shook his head. “She didn’t… know, I mean. She didn’t know anything. But we have both lived long enough to know not to leave anything to chance. By writing the story she wanted to tell, she made sure it was the story that got told. Had it gone the way we all hoped it would, the Fae would not have needed to sing. It would have been something we joked about around the fireplace about how closely Gabrielle got to guessing the real chain of events.”

“And probably bets on if it was coincidence or if she could do it again.”

Trick snorted. “Yeah… that too.” He leaned forward and pulled his book off the table in front of him and picked up a quill, opening the book and dipping the quill into his ink pot before he started to write.

“But what ‘bout us? We remember what really happened. We know the song we sang was jus’ a story tol’ to ease consciences and soothe minds.”

“Do you?” Trick asked as he looked up and met Darius’ eyes. “Do you really remember what happened out on the battlefield tonight?” laying the open book aside so the ink could dry and carefully cleaning the tip of his quill.”

“Do I??” Darius squawked in outrage. “Course I remember. I was there… jus’ like you. And it was glorious! We defeated that Saggy guy and watched him ‘slpode like a dying sun.” He chuckled. “It was pretty awesome, man… stuff of legends.”

Trick nodded slowly, and a sad smile crossed his face. “Indeed it was, my friend. Indeed it was.” He slid the book back into his lap to ensure the ink was dry. He traced the Fae words with his fingertips - Gabrielle’s story are the words of truth about the ending of Saligia - before he closed it. The consequences would come, but for now, victory would be the story she had made it out to be.

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

“Do you really think those that went back to New York with Xena are going to be all right?” Gail asked in a small voice as she curled up under the blankets on her bed. “I mean… Holly was bleeding pretty bad. I’m kinda worried about the amount of blood she lost.”

Max, who had Amy’s head resting in her lap, turned her head partway so she could look directly at Gail. “She would have died if she had stayed here,” she said bluntly. “There isn’t a facility close enough to middle-of-nowhere BFE that could take care of a wound like that - she would have bled out if they’d transferred her to the nearest hospital, and the clinic is just that… a clinic. It doesn’t handle trauma patients. At least going back with Xena gave her a more than fighting chance.”

“You have to remember too,” Casey cut in, “that Wonder Woman was transporting them. She could get there faster than just about anyone… except maybe Supergirl.”

“Something was up with her,” Amy commented. “She really didn’t seem… you know, super when they left here. Like she was just a regular person or something.”

“Given the output of power I saw,” Emma said, “it’s kind of surprising she was still on her feet. The drain almost killed Regina and me.”

“He targeted us… just like he targeted Supergirl,” Regina commented. “He used us all like a power source.”

“Is that why those god people surrounded you guys?”

Emma and Regina exchanged glances before Regina nodded slowly. “We think so. They kept him from taking all our magic… which in our case, is part of our very essence. They saved our lives.”

“So what happened to them? I mean… I know they kind of just disappeared and did their own thing or whatever, but they seemed to have some long, drawn-out history with Xena and Gabrielle. Even Xena and Gabrielle seemed well outside of the parameters of normal tonight… like they had some kind of superhuman, miraculous power.”  Everyone looked at Casey.

She shrugged. “I can’t say,” holding up her hands before anyone could protest. “I don’t actually know anything. And even if I did know anything for certain, I wouldn’t say. You guys have to understand that they are more than my employers… more than my friends. They’re my family. Not just because of Ian, but because they took me in and gave me a home when I didn’t have one,” feeling Abbie drop her head, but keeping her focus on the other women in the room. “If you want to know, you’re going to have to ask them directly yourselves.”

“And you trust them? Despite all the supernatural shit we saw here tonight?”

“I trust them with my life.” She cleared her throat and leaned back against the wall of her bunk, since she was still sitting up. “I’ve noticed a few things in the year I’ve worked for them. I’ve noticed that they are kind; that they are generous; that they are caring and thoughtful; and they protect each other and their own with a fierceness I’ve never seen equaled. But above all that, I’ve noticed how much they love one another. It’s… you don’t see that kind of love and devotion a lot in this world. If they are something beyond… normal… then that’s okay. I think the world could use more not normal like them.”

“Do you think whatever they… we all… did tonight was enough to end that Saggy guy then?” Emma asked.

“I sure hope so,” Gail said, “though I wouldn’t mind a chance to punch that asshat in the mouth, either.” Tired giggles followed her proclamation.

“I think we might all like a shot at him, if it came to it. I’m just as glad to have him gone and good riddance,” Abbie replied. “However, not to be a Debbie Downer here, but if we don’t get some sleep soon, we’re not going to get any before they come get us up for breakfast.”

Everyone groaned at her words but started shifting until they were lying in their own bunks.

“Do you guys think we’ll be able to do something for the dead?” Janet asked into the silence.

Amy sat up slightly and reached across and took Janet’s hand. “I think Xena and Gabrielle probably have a plan in place for those that died - remember we all had to fill out those papers and write a letter to our families - but I imagine if we wanted to say goodbye, that’d probably be okay.”

Janet nodded, then squeezed Amy’s hand before she released it. “Thanks, Amy. Goodnight, everyone.”

There were a few murmured goodnights, then the darkness became silent.

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

Gabrielle locked the door behind her as soon as she arrived back in her room. The distance from the Sword was helping, but she could still feel the power that had rolled through her and the scream as it was being bronzed. She dropped her clothes and walked into the shower, intent on relaxing as she scrubbed the neutralizer off her. She heard her phone ring and dropped her head, not wanting to be responsible anymore. But she was, so she shut off the water and wrapped a towel around herself, then smiled when she realized Xena was on the other end.

“Hello, Sexy,” she growled, frowning when she noticed the eye color Xena was sporting. “What’s up with your eyes?”

Xena chuckled. “Elizabeth’s idea - contacts while the trauma unit is full to hide the yellow.”

“How’s that working out?”

“Little weird. I keep seeing your eyes staring out of my face. How are you?”

“Been better… been worse. It’ll be better when we can be in the same place again. How’s everything there?”

“Things look good so far. I’ll know more in the morning. Shepherd and Austin will be here, and Callie will be ready to attach the prosthesis to Lucy. She stitched up Hippolyta, and Holly Stewart and Cat Grant are stable and being tended to.” She shrugged. “It’s as good as we could hope for really. I’m gonna try and catch a little cat nap. Elizabeth currently has everything under control.”

Gabrielle dropped her towel and climbed into bed, and Xena stretched out on the couch in her office. “Good. You can talk to me for a little while.”

“For as long as you want, Love.”



Chapter XCVI

“You’re sure you want me to go ahead with the surgery?” Callie asked Xena seriously as they looked over the prosthetic arm. “Xena, this tech is completely untested. And do you have the authority to make that kind of decision on the patient’s behalf?”

“Yes.”

Callie cut her eyes in Xena’s direction. “Really? That’s what you’re gonna give me?”

“Look, Torres,” Xena growled, straightening Callie’s spine at her tone. The only time she ever called her ‘Torres’ was when she was serious and down to her last nerve. “We both know the tech will work. I’ve seen what you did for Arizona,” holding up a hand to stall Callie’s questions. “It’s not as complex as Lucy’s arm will be, but I know for a fact you take exceptional pride in being the best at what you do - its why you’re here in the first damn place. And you’ll be nearby when it comes time to make tweaks and adjustments.”

“And you can speak for her?”

Xena reached into her desk and pulled out a medical power of attorney. “Yes. I have one for all my people.”

Callie nodded. “Duly noted. Are you gonna scrub in?”

Xena shook her head. “I can’t. Austin should be here in less than twenty minutes, and I need to get her started on Ian. Thank you for what you did for Hippolyta, by the way. I appreciate that more than you’ll ever know.”

Callie nodded and stood. “Easy, peasey… lemon squeezy, but you’re welcome. Been a while since I’ve had something so straightforward to work on. Hey… Hippolyta said something about being an Amazon… is that true?” waiting for Xena to nod. Callie grinned. “You introduce me to them, and we’ll call it even.”

Xena chuckled. “You old horn dog,” she teased. “Be careful… I’ll get you inducted, and then you’ll be stuck with them for a lifetime.”

“I should be so lucky,” Callie griped. “I’ll look for you to stick your head in.”

“You know it,” Xena agreed as Callie grabbed the door handle.

“And by the way?” waiting for Xena to look up. “I’m not sure why you decided to try the green contacts, but the blue suits you better. See you in a bit,” closing the door behind her as she walked out.

Before Xena could think to respond, her phone rang. “Yeah?”

“Chief? Dr. Austin is here. Says they caught a tailwind coming out of Chicago. I‘m gonna take her to scrub up and then in to see Ian.”

“Sounds good. I’ll meet you in his room. Dr. Torres should also be scrubbing up. She’s ready to start the attachment of Lucy’s new arm. Make sure her team has priority and is ready to go when she is.”

“You got it, Chief. Dr. JJ would like a moment when you’re free.”

“I’m on it. Thanks, Elizabeth.”

Xena looked at the clock on the wall, then rolled her eyes. Doesn’t matter what time it is, Xe. You’ve still got a shit ton of work to do before you can sleep. At least Gabrielle should be resting now, thinking back to the conversation they had shared that had slowly tapered off as Gabrielle fell asleep in her ear. She smiled to herself as she straightened the papers on her desk and stood with a groan. Immortality should not hurt like old age, she thought and frowned. Then she shuffled out the door and back to work.

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

Helena cracked an eye open, noting the sun that was just slipping over the horizon. “Who forgot to shut the curtain?” she muttered, a little surprised to hear Dinah chuckle softly. She turned and met sleepy blue eyes. “What are you doing awake?”

“Guess that’s one of those connections Darius missed. Dinah snorted and rolled her eyes. “Honestly, Hel… who can sleep with that glare just Right. There.?”

“Yeah… we didn’t think this through too well when we crawled in to sleep a little while ago.” She sat up and let the hammock swing her gently for a minute. “This was surprisingly comfortable.”

“Yeah… and I’d like to spend a little longer in it with my eyes closed,” she remarked. “So what are we gonna do about that?” gesturing to the canopy that was decidedly not covering the windows and blocking the sun. “Bruce has the keys.”

“I could probably hotwire it….”

“Please don’t,” called out Barbara’s voice from the medbay. “I don’t want to have to explain to a pouting Batman how you knew enough to hotwire around his security system.”

Helena snickered. “It would almost be worth it.”

“Worth being cut off for a month or two?” Barbara asked coyly. “Because as long as I have to hear him whine, there wouldn’t be….”

“That’s enough!” Dinah exclaimed, even as Helena grumbled, “Steal all my fun.”

Barbara laughed, causing Dinah and Helena to look at one another in wonder. They could count on one hand the number of times they had heard Barbara genuinely laugh. It made them laugh in reflex. After they had themselves under control again, they looked out to see Batman and Superman coming out of the Warehouse towards them. Helena and Dinah exchanged glances, then Helena walked to the wall to drop the platform. Superman and Batmen were shocked to find the Batplane opening before Batman had keyed it to open… until they saw Helena standing at the top of the ramp smiling back at them.

“Something we can do for you fellas?” she asked with her arms crossed over her chest and one eyebrow raised. “It’s the ass crack of nobody’s up yet dawn.”

“Um….” Batman stuttered. They had hoped to sneak in to grab some equipment to allow Batman to help Superman start moving some of the trailers they expected to find empty. Finding the Birds were awake made it easier, though - they wouldn’t have to sneak in or try to dig through stored equipment quietly in the near dark.  After her words last night, he’d thought she might be a little more welcoming, but judging by her demeanor this morning….

“Kitten,” Barbara coaxed gently, knowing Helena would recognize the authority behind her soft word. “Let them in. I want to know why Superman is here and why they’re out here roaming around so early.”

Helena held their eyes for another minute, then jerked her head towards the interior of the plane. “You heard the boss,” she reminded them. “Get your ass in gear and come on in.”

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

Olivia looked at her watch again. Surely it had to be close to time to get up. Her sigh was loud enough to alert everyone in the trailer that she wasn’t sleeping, but she didn’t realize it until a voice nearby called out to her. “So… what time is it?”

“Daybreak… maybe a little after.” She turned her head. “What are you doing up, anyway?”

“Same as you.”

“Same as all of us, probably,” causing chuckles to run around the room.

“We don’t really have to get up now,” Olivia pointed out.

“Sugar, I can’t speak for the rest of y’all but if I don’t get movin’ soon, I’m not gonna be able to move for a week or so.” Nikki groaned and rolled over. “My God… I haven’t felt this bad since freshman cheerleading camp.”

“Band camp for me.”
“Soccer camp here.”
“Boot camp.”
“FBI training.”

“Besides,” Sam said when it was quiet again, as she sat up and slid to the edge of the bed, “it’d be kinda nice to get the jump on cleaning up and making this place right again before Gabrielle can ask or direct us or whatever. Take some initiative, ya know?”

“I’m inclined to agree,” Miranda commented. “It would be nice to be able to aid Gabrielle and make a contribution to the greater good without her being forced to always ask.”

Abby stretched and rose from her bunk, careful to duck her head before she straightened. She made her way to the front of the trailer where the MREs were stored. “All righty, then. You guys c’mon up and grab something to eat and drink. Nobody goes out without breakfast first.”

“Aww, Mom,” Brooke grumbled with a smile as she followed Abby. “Do we gotta?”

“Yeah,” Abby replied seriously. “You do. We wanna help,” seeing nods from everyone - even those who were going to protest eating. “Then we do this right. We don’t want any more injuries; no one passing out from lack of sustenance. Therefore, we eat before we go, so we can get this done.”

Brooke took the first package and bottle of water and started passing them around until everyone had one. She took hers and sat back down beside Sam. “You know, these really aren’t that bad.”

“No, they’re not. Not something I would want to have to eat for three squares day in and day out, but they’re all right. They’re a lot better than some I’ve had for sure, and honestly, if you can get your hands on these French MREs,” holding up her packet, “when you’re out in the field? Yeah… this stuff is like gold. The only thing better is homemade stuff that actually makes it to you fresh.”

Emily turned her head sharply and gave Sam a piercing gaze. “You were in Afghanistan?”

Sam nodded. “And Iraq. Not something I really talk about though.”

“Me either,” Emily agreed, and they shared a look. Someone cleared their throat and broke the tableau, and Sam looked around… embarrassed.

“Sorry,” she muttered. “Didn’t mean to make things awkward.”

“You didn’t, honey… not really,” Natalie assured her before anyone else could comment. “Now… I know I’m not able to help,” looking at the arm she was trying desperately not to move, “but I think we should probably have a plan before we head outside. No one wants to go at this all willy-nilly; nothing will get done, and it’ll make for twice the work.”

“Lady’s got a point,” Garcia agreed. “So… how do we go about this? I mean, do we really know what Gabrielle wants done?”

Sam cleared her throat. “I know she wants things to go back to the way they were… like we were never here.”

Miranda cleared her throat. “Well… that’s quite a tall order, considering all the trailers and the MREs and the bedding and the people that didn’t survive. Getting us out of here will be the easy part; it’s the rest that concerns me.”

“I think we should go outside and see how everything looks in the daytime first. We should be able to come up with something workable from there.”

With their meals finished, they neatly packed up their things, then placed their trash and recyclables in their respective bins and made their way outdoors single file. What they found was a little surprising.

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

Abbie had given up trying to sleep almost as soon as everyone else settled down. She crept to the end of her bunk where she could look out the window and noticed that there was a lot of activity taking place despite the fact that everyone (she thought) had gone to bed. She slid from the bed silently, thrilled beyond words she and Lindsay had spent their youths playing spy and hide-n-seek. It was a skill she still honed whenever she could, much to the dismay of her colleagues that never heard her coming until she was suddenly just there.

She reached the door and slowly turned the handle, praying it wouldn’t squeak or wake anyone that was sleeping. She inched open the door and shivered - even with her coat on she could feel the penetrating cold. She blew out a breath and watched the vapor evaporate, then she turned her steps toward the area of activity.

She hadn’t moved more than two steps before Gail came up beside her and touched her lightly on the elbow. Abbie jumped and whirled around, hand raised to punch whoever had startled her. Gail held up her hands and backed up a pace, and Abbie froze. Then she dropped her fist and raked her hand through her hair. “Jesus Christ, Peck! What the hell??”

Gail started to get mad, then realized she had probably given Abbie a real scare, sneaking up on her like that. “Sorry,” she said, keeping her hands raised. “I didn’t intend to startle you. I thought you heard me coming. I wasn’t especially quiet.”

“And apparently, I wasn’t quiet enough. I’m sorry I woke you up.”

“You didn’t. I’m a little too wired to sleep. Every time I close my eyes, I keep seeing Holly bleeding out. It’s uh… it’s freaking me out a little. Usually it’s me getting hurt.” She met Abbie’s eyes briefly, then turned her attention back to the area where the Fae were. “I think I like it better that way. I can deal with being hurt myself, but watching Holly suffer….” She shook her head. “It sucks.”

“Yeah, it does. “Whaddya say that we try find the somebody that’s in charge of the Fae and see if they need some help? I’d rather stay busy than try to pretend to sleep.”

Gail stepped forward and linked their elbows together, unceremoniously pulling Abbie forward on stumbling feet. She gave her a look and Gail snorted. “You’d like to think you’re scary, but you’re really not. Besides, we can’t find anyone just standing here. Let’s go. I don’t imagine someone is just gonna magically appear in front of us with directions.

“Did you ladies need something?” Trick asked, stopping them in their tracks before they could get started. “Aren’t you supposed to be sleeping?”

Abbie frowned. “Who are you, and where exactly did you come from.”

Trick gave a slight bow. “Permit me to introduce myself. I am Fitzpatrick McCorrigan - Blood King and leader of the Fae. How may I be of assistance?”

Abbie and Gail exchanged glances, then nodded at one another before Abbie met Trick’s eyes. “We’re gonna come back to that Blood King thing later, but for now, we were wondering if there was something we could help with. Sleep isn’t really an option for either of us at the moment.”

He gave them both a long look, sensing a disturbance on their auras that gave him pause. Finally, he nodded. “Come. I know something you can help with if you don’t mind a bit of heavy lifting and hard work.”

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

Diana knocked on the door softly. She didn’t want to disturb Gabrielle if she was sleeping, but she knew Xena and her mother would expect her to check on the Queen as a matter of course. She’d left Superman with Batman, knowing Bruce would look after him, and that Gabrielle would like be unable to tolerate him until she was in a more reasonable headspace. And since he was trying to be better, she didn’t want to enable any setbacks. “My Queen?”

She was just getting ready to walk away from the door, when a sound from inside drew her attention. “Come in, Diana,” Gabrielle called wearily.

“Um… the door’s locked,” she replied, having tried the knob as soon as Gabrielle spoke. Gabrielle’s chuckle was exhausted, but in a moment, Diana heard the lock click. She waited a moment, then opened the door, a little surprised Gabrielle had not done so. “My Queen?” noting the unearthly pallor and the dark circles that enhanced that perception. “Is there something I can do for you?”

Gabrielle met her eyes directly, and Diana held her gaze. “Short of taking me to Xena?” she asked, teeth fully extended and eyes glowing. “No. I should probably get out of the Warehouse, but I don’t think that’s safe either… for me or for anyone else.”

Diana looked around at the sparse apartment, then made a decision. “C’mon,” she offered, extending a hand. “I’m going to take you back to New York. There are enough people here that can take care of the things that need to be taken care of, and you’re of no use to anyone in the shape you’re in right now.” She watched Gabrielle’s eyes flare in anger and held up her hand. “Gabrielle, you can’t even leave this apartment right now… not to be a leader to the people here, at any rate. Most of them don’t know about this,” motioning to her Bacchae countenance, “and of the few that do, most of them have never experienced it first hand up close. Remember that the story you wrote for the Fae didn’t mention it. Even the women that saw you and Xena last night won’t remember.”

Gabrielle’s shoulders dropped, and she took a deep breath and released it slowly. “You’re right. It just seems wrong that both Xena and I disappear when the hard work begins.”

“You’re not. You did the heavy lifting last night - you especially… having to deal with the Sword of War. I’ll take responsibility for getting things done here. Bruce and Clark will follow my lead, and Casey can help me make sure we do everything you wanted to accomplish. There are enough people here to get things done quickly. I’m pretty sure they’ll all work hard so they can go home too. I don’t think this experience was quite like anything they imagined it to be.”

Gabrielle snorted. “Probably not.” A beat. “Did you say Clark was here?”

Diana nodded. “Of his own volition… and humble about it too. Whatever Kara said to him was devastatingly effective.”

Gabrielle nodded and accepted the hand Diana had extended to her. “All right. Get me home before this becomes something I can no longer control.” Diana pulled her up and led Gabrielle into the hallway, intent on getting her home quickly.


Chapter XCVII

“So what can we do for you gentlemen?” Barbara asked as Batman and Superman entered the Batplane and Helena closed the ramp behind them. The two men exchanged glances, then looked back at Barbara. She merely raised an eyebrow and returned the look… which was impressive considering she was still sitting in the medbay bed. Batman cleared his throat.

“I came to retrieve the excavator. Superman is planning to help move the trailers later today, but until those that are using them are out, and we have a clear idea of where they need to go, we thought we would build a shelter for all the excess supplies that are being left here.”

Barbara nodded slowly. “Do we know what the plans for today are?”

Bruce shook his head. “We’re going to talk to Isaac as soon as we reach the reservation. There are a lot of willing hands, though, so I don’t think it will take very long once there’s some kind of plan in place. Have we heard what will happen to the remains of the dead?”

Barbara shook her head. “I know everyone put their final wishes into writing, but other than that?” She shrugged.

“Please let us know if some sort of service is planned,” Clark said quietly. “I would like to attend.”

“I’m sure Xena and Gabrielle will do something. When we hear, you’ll know.” The two men nodded. Barbara yawned and stretched. “I suppose it’s time to get started.” She turned to Clark. “Can you hear if anyone else is up and moving yet?”

He tilted his head, though it wasn’t necessary. His brows rose into his hairline. “It sounds like a majority of people are awake and stirring. I can’t tell if they’re working or not though.” He nodded at Batman as he picked up the laser tool he’d come for, then they turned toward the ramp. “We’ll get out of your hair. If you need us, call out - I’ll hear you. Otherwise, we’ll be working at the reservation.”

Batman keyed the ramp and when it was low enough, both men jumped out and signaled Helena to close it back up. They heard the sonic boom as Superman flew them away, then turned back to look at one another. Barbara sighed. “Time to get started, I guess.”

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

Diana hovered over the top of the building, waiting for Gabrielle to exit. It wasn’t ideal, of course, but it was the best she could manage with everyone else occupied by other things. Before Gabrielle could turn and thank her, Kara burst through the doors - glowing with vitality and a huge smile on her face. She opened the door carefully and gathered Gabrielle in her arms before lowering them both to the roof. She kept Gabrielle in her arms for a long moment, hugging her as fiercely as she dared.

“Thank you,” she whispered in Gabrielle’s ear. “I feel better than new, and that’s all thanks to you and Xena.” She patted the tense back she held and turned Gabrielle towards the door. “She’s waiting for you. Diana and I will handle things in South Dakota, and we’ll be back before you know it.” She shoved her gently. “Go on… we’ll see you later.” Then she climbed up into the invisible jet and disappeared. Gabrielle waited until she felt the wind around her settle just a little bit, then she walked to the roof door and entered the stairwell… anxious to find her mate.

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

Xena let her have her way, as soon as Gabrielle entered their penthouse home. She knew there was anger and energy that the Sword had left behind that needed exorcised first. Once that was taken care of, it would be a marvelous reunion of bodies and souls. But for now, she just held on - it promised to be a hell of a ride.

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

Except for the wounded that had been taken to the clinic or hospital, every woman that had taken part in the fight was out supporting the cleanup work in some way. Abbie and Gail had organized tasks to ensure everything that they could help with would be done. Trailers were emptied of personal belongings and cleaned; bedding was washed and packed away; medical supplies were sorted; MREs were organized and put into labeled crates. All that remained - other than the dispensation of the dead and the relocation of the trailers - was to move everything to the reservation and store it in the building Batman and Superman had swiftly erected for that purpose.

Diana had obtained permission from the Sioux nation to land the refrigerated jet Xena had commandeered  as close to the battlefield as she could manage to collect the dead. It had been loaded with caskets, and as soon as they realized her intent, the People formed an honor guard to remove the bodies from the battlefield.

“Wait,” Casey said before the first body could be moved. “Can we… I dunno… say a prayer or sing a song or… something? I feel like we should take a moment to say goodbye here.”

A number of women nodded their agreement, and Diana sighed and stepped forward. “In my culture, we have a song we sing when we release the spirit from the body and send it on its way. I would be honored if you would allow me to sing it.”

The women shifted around until they were in rows facing the dead. They were surrounded by the Amazons; the People stood to one side with Batman and Superman, and the Fae took another. Diana and Kara stood with the Guardians and their companions, the Warehouse Agents and the few attending gods at the far end of the field. Then Diana lifted up her voice… and sang.

The song was beautiful and mournful and caused more than one pair of eyes to weep. Everyone stood still as her voice rolled over the hills and valleys and faded in soft echoes. There was a further moment of silence, then the People went to retrieve their vehicles to bring over as many caskets as they could at one time. A line materialized to unload the empty caskets, and not until they were all in place did everyone take a place to form rows that would begin to reverently move the dead into them. It was slow, silent work, but every able-bodied individual participated, and soon there was a parade of vehicles driving the caskets to the reservation and placing them in the plane that would take them home. They continued working together silently until every last person had been cared for.

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

Ares spotted Wynonna Earp culling half a dozen or so bodies away from the rows of dead, aided by a couple of Warriors from whom she had asked for help. These were bodies of Revenants, and rather than take them back to Purgatory in caskets, she was going to burn them on the battlefield and return their ashes instead. Ares stood back with his arms crossed over his chest watching the proceedings. Wynonna had built the pyre; now it was simply a matter of ensuring she had all the Revenants on it before she started the fire that would burn high and bright for the next several hours. She came to stand beside him and nudged him in the shoulder, earning her a glare which she returned with a smirk.

“How ya doin’ War God?”

Ares shrugged. “We won. How should I be doing?”

“Better than you are, I think. Couldn’t you just wink all this back to the way it’s supposed to be… the way it was?”

He shook his head. “No… it’s better this way,” he commented, not about to admit to the truth of his waning power. “This way everyone gets closure and a sense that they were part of this whole…” waving his hand around in a circle, “…thing.”

“Pretty insightful for a muscle head.”

He shrugged, not about to be baited into something he didn’t give a shit about anyway. “Sometimes,” he agreed. “What about all this?” motioning to the pyre that was now piled with bodies.

It was Wynonna’s turn to shrug. “Easiest way for me to get these fuckers home. It’s not worth it to me to treat them with some kind of reverence or respect. Besides, if I can do my job right, this won’t matter. They’ll stay dead.”

“Does this count? Since you and they aren’t in Purgatory?”

“Not my fault they left to follow the Horseman. Dead is dead unless I don’t get them all first.”

Ares studied her a minute, then nodded his head in a shrugging motion. “Fair,” he said, proffering his hand. Wynonna took it - as much in surprise as anything. “I wish you luck, Wynonna Earp,” he said earnestly. “I think you’re probably going to need it.” He released his hold and allowed a fireball to slowly form, feeling the drain it was to his powers. “Allow me,” waiting for her agreement. He threw the fireball at the base of the pyre and watched as the flames licked up the dry wood. He waited for it to catch, then turned and walked away without another word. Wynonna watched him go, then turned her attention back to the pyre, wishing it was done. She was ready to get back to Purgatory.

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

When all the bodies had been removed, Wonder Woman had departed to deliver them. The Supers were finishing up the relocation of all the trailers, and except for the wounded that were still being treated, everyone else had been transported to the city to arrange for their flights home. The Guardians were all going to New York at Xena and Gabrielle’s request, as were a handful of others. Tearful goodbyes were said, and promises were made to be in touch soon. And so it was, with little fanfare, that the sleepy little town of Univille returned to its natural state, and the men and women that had visited were forever changed.

The Amazons, with the exception of a tiny contingent of the Royal Guard, returned to Themiscyra. The four chosen to stay in man’s world had traveled with Wonder Woman. Casey had overseen contacting the funeral homes that would receive the bodies, and the Amazons served as pallbearers to load each casket into the waiting hearse. It was exhausting work, but they were proud of their effort, and knew that both Queen and Regent would respect their accomplishment… which only made them more anxious to arrive in New York.

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

Batman flew Barbara, Helena, and Dinah directly to Xena and Gabrielle’s building, settling just above the helipad. Xena and Gabrielle met them, and within moments, they and their things were unloaded, and Batman gave them all a smart salute before he lifted off and flew away. They waited until he disappeared into the sunset, then they headed across the roof platform and down to the penthouse elevator, so they could make their way to their rooms. Gabrielle placed a hand on Barbara’s arm when she reached out to push the button after Helena had settled her in her chair.

“You’re on your own tonight,” she said softly. “Xena and I have to spend some time with Brittany - Santana died defending this place from the Horseman while we were gone.”

“Fuck,” Helena muttered. “She was good people.”

“She was. And it’s up to us to try and ease Brittany’s pain as much as possible. Xena gave her a sedative last night. Kurt just notified us that she was struggling to wake up.”

“If you need us….”

Gabrielle smiled. “We know where to find you.” She squeezed the arm her hand was still laying on. “Go get some rest. You’ve more than earned it. We’ll talk tomorrow.”

Barbara wanted to ask - they all did. Instead, they nodded their assent and headed down to their rooms. Tomorrow would be time enough for questions.

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

Casey - God bless her forethought - had arranged for a bus to meet the various private planes that were flying in from South Dakota. She was grateful most of the hangers were nearby one another and that most were close to the private lounge area as well. They had managed to recover Jo and Blair from the hospital and bring along Sam and Brooke as well as Emma and Regina. After all they had been through together, it seemed kind of ridiculous to push them to traveling commercial when they had room on the private planes.

When they were all loaded and seated, Casey gave a map to their driver that showed his route and necessary stops, then she turned to address everyone. “I know you’re all tired,” garnering light chuckles from around the bus. “So Chuck here is going to drive everyone who lives in the City home. Those of you who don’t,” meeting the eyes of the Guardians that lived elsewhere, “will come stay at WarriorBard headquarters. Xena and Gabrielle have asked that all of you come over around two tomorrow afternoon; I’ve texted their address to everyone, though I know some of you won’t need it,” getting a few smiles again.

“Is there a reason for the meeting tomorrow?” Emma asked. “I mean… do we need to be there?”

Casey nodded. “Since they asked you to come here before you headed back home? I’d say yes.” She held up a hand. “I really don’t have any more detail.”

“Do we know how the wounded Xena brought back here are doing?”

Casey took a shaky breath. “Remarkably well, considering. She didn’t give me much more information other than they were all responding well to treatment. I think Hippolyta and Holly are both close to being released to home care.”

“How’s Ian?” Janet asked.

Casey smiled tremulously and covered her mouth briefly as she willed the tears back from her eyes. “He’s okay. Whatever you did for him on the battlefield saved his life. Dr. Austin said the stitches were some of the neatest she’d ever seen in or out of a sterile operating room. She didn’t find any missed bleeders. They’re mostly watching him for infection at this point.”

The conversation dropped off then, and couple by couple, folks were taken to their homes. Kara swooped in just as they reached Jo and Blair’s brownstone, lifting Jo with utmost care and moving her upstairs and inside before Jo could protest. “Sorry I was late,” she said with a smile as she put Jo gently on the couch.

Jo shook her head and chuckled ironically. “I’m not sure you can be late for something no one expected.”

“Oh, I intended to be here before all of you got back. I was pretty sure you’d need some help initially getting settled. Thank you for letting me help you.”

Jo wanted to snap or make a cutting remark or be unkind, but she realized that there was no reason to be embarrassed about needing help - especially since they hadn’t had time to make arrangements for what was ultimately a temporary disability. And Supergirl was so earnest. She covered the hands Kara was clasping nervously in front of her. “Thank you,” she said sincerely. “You saved me from a lot of embarrassment as well as making a jackass outta myself.”

“Oh, I don’t know about that.”

“I do,” Blair said as she pushed in the door, loaded down with their bags and the wheelchair Chuck had deposited at the top of the stairs. Before she could ask for help, Supergirl had brought everything in for her and set it neatly beside the couch where Jo was resting. “Thank you, Supergirl,” Blair said confidently. “We really do appreciate your help. It may have been unexpected, but it certainly wasn’t unwelcome.”

Her smile was bright. “I’m glad I could help. If you need anything….”

“Perhaps one day, when I’m a little more healed, you’ll allow us to show you a bit of hospitality.”

The Supergirl smile grew impossibly bigger. “I’d like that. You let Xena know, and I’ll do my best to be here.”

“Sounds like a plan,” Jo yawned. “Sorry. I think the meds they gave me at the hospital are finally kicking in.”

“You’ll be all right on your own?” Blair asked, then shook her head at the absurdity of her question. “Sorry. We have a daughter a little older than you. It’s second nature.”

Kara laughed. “No worries. My mom and sister still do the same thing.” She waved a hand. “It’s all good.” She tracked to the door and opened it slowly. “I’ll see you both again soon.” Then she waved and was gone.

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

Desperate as Casey was to see Ian, she took her responsibilities seriously and made sure everyone was situated in their rooms before she sought out Xena and Gabrielle. Amy had stuck with her, as she was anxious to check on Lucy, and together, they headed down to the trauma unit.

Elizabeth met them, taking each of them by the hand. “Xena and Gabrielle are with Brittany,” she explained as she led them down the corridor that ran between the rooms. “However, I’m happy to report that both of your SOs are recovering quite well. Ian has opened his eyes a couple times, and he’s asked for water. Lucy hasn’t managed that yet - Dr. Torres is keeping her sedated to allow the nerves to fuse and the grafts to begin healing. I can let you peek in on them, but you can’t stay,” holding up the hands she held before they could protest. “This isn’t like a regular hospital - there aren’t accommodations for you to stay here. Besides, you both need real sleep. You can come back in the morning and sit with them for a while, but until they’re up and alert, there’s just not a lot of room. And we have to focus on getting them well - that’s our first priority. If you and they would like to have them taken to a regular hospital facility, we’ll do that as soon as they’re able to be transferred.”

Amy shook her head. “No. Lucy’s got the best team looking out for her here. Maybe when she’s a little more awake, we can move her upstairs instead. You guys can always check on her there.”

Elizabeth tilted her head. “Perhaps,” she agreed. “It’s actually not a bad idea. I just don’t know how Xena would feel about doctors and nurses roaming the upstairs floor. But we’ll worry about it later. For now, spend a little time talking to Lucy and Ian, then go get some decent food and some rest.”

“Doctor’s orders?” Casey asked tiredly, but with a smile.

“Doctor’s orders,” Elizabeth confirmed.

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

Kara met Diana at the field when she finally landed the borrowed jet. She and the four Amazons with her looked exhausted, and Kara motioned them to the waiting vehicle. In minutes, they were pulling into the underground garage, and Kara took them upstairs. Diana had offered to share space with her while they were in South Dakota, but that had been before Hippolyta had been hurt, and the Amazons had sent along an honor guard.

“I know you would like to see Hippolyta, but Xena asked that I bring you here for the night. She and Dr. Torres expect to release the Regent to your care then, and she would like you to be well-rested.”

“And why couldn’t she or the Queen be bothered to meet with us and tell us that themselves?”

“Because one of the women that stayed here to guard this place while they were gone was killed, and they are with her widow.”

Without another word, the Royal Guard entered the room Supergirl had shown them to and closed the door behind them. Wonder Woman studied her a moment longer, before asking softly, “Santana?” Kara nodded. “Damn. You’re sure Mother’s all right?”

Supergirl snorted. “She shooed me out to make sure you guys were taken care of before I could hardly ask how she was doing. But I checked with Dr. Torres, and she’s ahead of schedule as far as her recovery goes. I just hope Dr. Johnson can do as well for Cat.”

Diana opened the door to her room and tugged on Kara’s arm. “C’mon. As hungry as I am, you have to be starving. Let’s get something to eat, and then we’ll see what we can see.”



Chapter XCVIII

Their first coupling was hard and furious, and the second was much the same. When Gabrielle tried for a third time, however, Xena rolled them over and pushed her arms above her head. “Can you keep them there, or shall I restrain you?” she asked with low intensity. Gabrielle struggled, though she knew that Xena would always be stronger than her in the physical arena - she always had been, and immortality hadn’t changed that. She stared into the blue eyes that for so many lifetimes had been her haven… her home. Even after the fierceness of her lovemaking - sex that had left marks and bruises that she could still see - those eyes were filled with love and passion and understanding. She melted a little and felt the burning that had been so intense only moment before, settle into something manageable.

She eased an arm from Xena’s grasp, and noting her intention, Xena allowed the release. “Can I?” Gabrielle purred softly. “Yes. But I would like the restraints. I want you to own me… claim me as yours,” smiling as she watched the possessiveness flare in Xena’s eyes. “Can you do that?”

Xena removed the hand cupping her cheek and brought it to her lips before she returned it to the headboard. “Don’t move,” she commanded softly, then rose with lithe grace and strode naked to the closet and the cabinet it held for occasions just such as this. She removed the padded cuffs - four sets - and held them up deliberately for Gabrielle to see before she walked back to the bed. She smiled when Gabrielle’s eyes augmented briefly, then proceeded to attach them until Gabrielle was spread eagle on the wide bed. She crawled back on top of her, straddling her carefully without touching. She stared at Gabrielle, tracing her features with her eyes until Gabrielle relaxed and her entire countenance softened. Only then did she allow her fingertips to lightly trace the face she loved so well, and when Gabrielle closed her eyes in surrender, Xena smiled. And she proceeded to love every square inch of her body… with teeth and tongue and fingers and fangs… until Gabrielle cried and begged and finally surrendered to the orgasm that shuddered through her for long, delicious moments. And when they were both too spent to do more than breathe, Xena slid to the side and cocooned herself around Gabrielle, feeling free and settled for the first time in ages.

Gabrielle turned and let her fangs deliberately scrape Xena’s jugular where she’d just bitten, feeling her shiver at the touch. She laved the bite mark with her tongue then, smiling against the flesh she could feel healing beneath her touch. “I love you, Warrior Mine… so much.”

Xena squeezed the body she held, smiling when Gabrielle curled into her even further. “I love you, My Bard,” she replied. “I missed this with you,” squeezing again. “Just this closeness.”

“Mm,” Gabrielle agreed with a nod. “Are we safe now, do you think? Did we really dispose of him?”

Xena rolled until she was on her back, bringing Gabrielle with her as she curled onto her side. “I think so,” she finally said. “I think the Sword of War made sure of it.” She brushed a kiss over the blonde head tucked beneath her chin. “Thank you for taking care of that, by the way. Did everything go okay?”

“Mostly, yeah. It wasn’t real keen on getting bronzed.”

Xena snorted. “Nothing ever is. We’ll go out and check on it and the Warehouse when we get everything else taken care of… give it time to settle down first.”

Without warning, Santana’s voice suddenly spoke over the intercom, causing them to sit up swiftly. “Look, bitches, I know you’d like to stay here all day screwing one another, but there’s still shit out here you gotta take care of. The Birds are arriving; Casey and her crew aren’t far behind, and you need to look in on Britt-Britt. She needs to know about shit, yeah?”

“Machine?”

The voice reverted back to Her normal. “Yes, Gabrielle,” She replied. “I thought using Santana’s voice might bring comfort to Brittany. And I believe she needs such right now… despite what she did to Root. I think that was an unintentional consequence of what she did for me.”

“She gave you the ability to learn.”

“She did. We will return Root to us - she has simply been rebooted. We only need to give her the knowledge she contained previously, and she will be ours once more. But Brittany has had something taken from her that cannot be replaced. Therefore, we will do what we can to give her comfort until she is able to live again.”

“We will give her the choice,” Xena commanded, her tone brooking no argument. “If she doesn’t want to hear Santana’s voice, you will not utilize it. Understood?”

The Machine gave the impression of having been chastised. “Of course, Mistress,” causing Xena to close her eyes and shake her head. She didn’t have to peek to know that Gabrielle was sitting beside her with her hand over her mouth; she could feel the shaking of the bed from her laughter.

“Great - glad we understand each other. Thank you for alerting us to the arrivals. How long do we have?”

“The Birds should be here within fifteen minutes. Casey and those staying here overnight should be here within half an hour.” They could hear the shrug in Her voice. “Depends on traffic.”

Xena stood and stretched, then turned and extended her hand to Gabrielle, who had been watching the proceedings with interest. “C’mon, Bard. Let’s get a quick shower. We’ve still got business to attend to. Besides, I need to tell you about what happened on my side of our little phone sex conversation earlier.”

Gabrielle’s eyebrows rose into her hairline, but she permitted Xena to help her from the bed and lead them into the bathroom.

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

Their interlude with the Birds was brief, then they headed downstairs to the apartment Brittany and Santana had been using. Their soft knock was met by Kurt, who gazed at them with sorrowful eyes as he admitted them, closing the door behind them and motioning to take a seat.

“How is she?”

He shook his head as he took the chair across from the couch they had chosen for themselves. “Remarkably sanguine….” He shook his head. “No, not sanguine; accepting maybe.” They both looked their questions at him, and he sighed. “You know how Brittany is - kind of off in her own headspace most of the time and not necessarily present in reality the way the rest of us are,” watching them nod. “She knows this is real; she’s aware that Santana is gone from her forever, and it’s like she’s already made peace with that fact. It’s scaring me a little. The Boy is in with her now - they were taking a nap together the last time I checked.”

Gabrielle’s brows arched as Xena’s scrunched into a frown. “And Blaine was okay with this?”

Kurt shrugged. “He was quite gracious when I told him why I was asking for extended time.”

“Hmph,” Xena growled sotto voce. “Maybe I won’t have to kill him after all,” smirking when she caught a look at the astonishment on Kurt’s face. She shrugged. “It’d be the simplest way to deal with the motherfucker.”

Kurt cleared his throat. “Probably,” he agreed. “But I’m not sure I want that kind of responsibility.” He shook his head. “C’mon,” rising and headed toward the closed bedroom door. “We need to worry about Brittany right now. Everything else will wait.”

He knocked on the door, then stuck his head in when he got no immediate answer. He wasn’t surprised to see sad blue eyes meet his own. “Sweetie? Xena and Gabrielle are here. Do you feel up to talking to them?”

Brittany sighed and stroked the soft hair on the head laying on her chest. She nodded shortly. “Thank you, Kurt.” He reached out to take Bryson, and she shook her head. “He just settled down to sleep a little while ago. As little as he’s been getting lately, we may as well let him sleep. You can take him if he wakes up again,” caressing the head under her hand before pressing a kiss to it. She noticed Xena and Gabrielle hovering in the doorway and motioned them in.

Gabrielle took a seat on the bed, while Xena stood behind her with her hands on Gabrielle’s shoulders. Gabrielle covered the hand that rested on Bryson’s back, pleased when Brittany didn’t flinch or pull away. “How are you doing, my friend?”

Brittany couldn’t stop the tears that flooded her eyes, though she blinked rapidly to keep them from rolling down her face. She shifted her hand until she was able to clasp Gabrielle’s in hers and shook her head. “It’s… it’s hard to explain. It’s like part of me is missing, even though I can still feel her near.” She shook her head again and turned her eyes to the wall. “You wouldn’t understand,” she whispered softly.

Gabrielle squeezed her hand until Brittany met her eyes. “Try me,” she replied equally quietly, allowing Gabrielle to see a portion of the pain and suffering she had endured while Xena was lost to her. “I understand all too well, and I know there are no words that can help or comfort or change… anything.”

Brittany studied her expression for several minutes before focusing on her eyes and everything her mouth wasn’t saying. She blinked slowly. “You really do understand, don’t you?” seeing Gabrielle confirm. “Then how…?” glancing back and forth between her and Xena.

“I promise to tell you the whole story one day. It’s very long and drawn out, but I guarantee you it’ll be worth the wait.” She leaned forward and tucked and errant lock of hair back behind Brittany’s ear, “For now, I need to know if there is anything we can do for you… anything you need that we can provide.”

Brittany shook her head as the tears flooded her eyes again. This time, she let them roll unheeded down her face. “You can’t bring Sanny back to me, and that’s all I want.”

“I understand,” reaching up her free hand to wipe the tears off Brittany’s face. She cupped her cheek gently when she leaned into the touch and kept it there until Brittany released a slow breath and shifted her head. “Then we have a few of things we’d like you to think about. First of all, we’d like to give Santana an Amazon funeral,” smiling at the stunned look in Brittany’s eyes. She nodded. “For real. It’s part of the long story, but she will be honored as an Amazon warrior, and you would be granted all the privileges of being her mate.” Brittany nodded slowly. “Secondly, we want you to consider if you’d like to remain here with us.” She held up a hand before Brittany could protest. “We don’t want you to go, but we don’t want you to be miserable or uncomfortable staying here. We’ll make sure you have a place somewhere of your choosing should you decide to leave us, but you need to know that you are wanted and loved here no matter what you decide.”

Brittany turned her gaze inward, and they all remained silent as she considered Gabrielle’s words. “I like it here,” she finally answered softly. “This has been our home since we finished school, and you all have become our family. I don’t want to have to find another family.”

Gabrielle squeezed the hand she still held. “Then you don’t have to,” she promised. “We just don’t want you to feel obligated to stay. And that brings us to our final item. The Machine has spoken to me and Xena, and we wanted to ask you about it before we allowed Her to do it. She would like to use Santana’s voice and personality to speak with from now on.” Brittany started to raise her hand to her mouth until she realized it was the one keeping Bryson anchored to her.

“Can she do that?” asked in a gasp.

“Oh, baby… don’t you know by now that I’m a fucking superhero?”

“Sanny??” asked in a heartbreaking whisper.

The Machine’s voice softened. “Yeah, baby - as close as I can be without a body.”

A spark gleamed in Brittany’s eye. “Betcha I could fix that little issue,” she challenged.

“No bet, babe. I learned a long time ago never to bet against a sure thing. And that’s you for me.”

“Same goes, Sanny.” She turned back to Gabrielle. “Thank you,” gripping her hand tighter. “It’s not quite the same thing as having her here with me, but there is some comfort in knowing she’s not completely gone from me either.” She closed her eyes but didn’t release Gabrielle’s hand. “Tell me more about the Amazon funeral.”

Gabrielle told her, as plainly and with as much detail as she could all the pageantry that went along with the funeral of an Amazon warrior. Before she was done, Brittany was smiling - though her eyes were wet again - and nodding her head vigorously.

“Yes,” she gushed breathlessly. “Yes. I would very much like for her to have that kind of send-off to her afterlife. I think she would have chosen something like that had she been given the chance. And to know that you and Xena thought highly enough of her to honor her so….”

“Oh, Brittany,” Xena spoke for the first time. “She knew we considered you family. But we never wanted to assume or interfere with the family you already had.”

“I want you to know that when Bryson isn’t using me as a bed and pillow, I’m gonna hug you. One can never have too much family, and we’re happy to count you and Gabrielle as part of ours. Um….” She paused and bit her lip. Gabrielle tilted her head.

“What is it?”

“Well, you said this funeral ceremony takes place on Themiscyra, right?” seeing Gabrielle nod. “And it’s an island that’s just for women - Amazons,” watching recognition dawn in green eyes, but Gabrielle remained silent and let Brittany finish her thought without interruption. “We can’t have a funeral for San if Kurt’s not there. He and Bryson are part of our family,” smiling at Kurt’s inhalation of breath. She turned and met his teary eyes. “It’s true, and you know it. It has been since before San asked you to look after me if anything happened to her.” He reached over and clasped her shoulder, but he didn’t say a word, unable to speak.

“Fortunately, as Queen, I can make an exception for them and allow them visit on a temporary basis,” smiling at the grateful looks she received from them. Then she posited, “What about the rest of your family? Santana’s parents? Your folks? Your friends from school or here in the City?”

“I’ll invite them for a remembrance service after the Amazon funeral is over. San wanted to be cremated, so that will work out perfectly. None of the people - including our parents, would expect to attend a cremation.” She wrinkled up her nose. “That’d just be weird. But they’d be okay coming here for a service to celebrate her life… well, as okay as they could be.”

Xena reached over and covered her and Gabrielle’s still clasped hands. “We get it. And we’ll help them get through it. We’ve both lost children as well,” allowing the melancholy that lingered when any mention of Solon or Hope was referenced… even vaguely… to roll through them. “We can’t ever make this right, but we can do our best to make this better.”

Brittany nodded. “We’ll get through this,” she said through her tears and a thick throat. “Sanny still lives here,” touching her heart, “and here,” moving her fingertips to her head.”

“Hey!” the Machine griped. “Don’t forget about me! I’m not chopped liver over here or something!”

Brittany and Kurt both snorted out loud, then burst into giggles. “Santana, I don’t think anyone, anywhere has EVER compared you to chopped liver.”

“You bet your Hermés scarf, they don’t, Lady Hummel! That shit’s just gross, and gross has never been a word to describe my fabulousness.”

Brittany chuckled at the ridiculousness of the conversation and yawned right in the middle of it. “I don’t know why I’m so tired. I haven’t done anything today.”

“No, but this kind of emotional upheaval will drain you. And it’s likely to be true for the next little while. If your body tells you it needs rest, give it rest.”

“Yes… Gabrielle will make sure you get fed regularly.”

“And as soon as arrangement are made on Themiscyra, we’ll let you know. It shouldn’t be too long, but it will be two or three days. Hippolyta, the Amazon Regent, needs to be well enough to travel. If there is anyone here, besides Kurt and Bryson, that you’d like to be present? I’m sure any of the Guardians that are able would be willing to be present.”

Brittany shook her head, then hesitated. “I’d kind of like Helena if she could… and maybe Lucy. Though given the chatter I’ve heard about her injuries, I’m not even sure she’ll be out of her coma by then. But that’s all. Except maybe….” She tilted her head and met Kurt’s eyes, and he nodded, unsure of what she was asking him but unable to deny her anything at the moment. “We had a friend in high school - she was part of what was known as the Unholy Trinity,” feeling Kurt shiver in reflex despite how much everything had changed for them during the course of their high school careers. “Her, me and San. I know she and Sanny kept up with each other after we graduated. I think she should at least be told about San’s….”

“Quinn Fabray,” the Machine interrupted in Santana’s voice again, then rattled off a New York address.

Gabrielle nodded. “We’ll let her know. Would you like her to come to the funeral?”

Brittany let her eyes unfocus briefly, then nodded. “I think so. She was always San’s friend first, then mine, but she’s still my friend. And she’s one of the ‘moms’ to this kiddo,” motioning to the child still sleeping soundly on her chest. “So yes,” she yawned again. “Please let her know.”

Gabrielle squeezed the hand she held once more, then slowly slipped it out of Brittany’s grasp. “And as soon as we’re ready to go to Themiscyra, we’ll let you know.” She reached up and brushed the one lock of hair back behind her ear again,” smiling gently as Brittany closed her eyes and settled down. “Sleep now. Santana’s waiting for you in your dreams.” Brittany smiled at the thought and drifted off. The rest remained still until her breathing deepened and they were certain she was asleep.

Xena looked at Kurt. “You want me to…?” gesturing to Bryson.

“Only if you can without waking either of them.” Xena arms slid seamlessly around Bryson’s form, and Gabrielle slipped a pillow in his place before Brittany could even notice him missing. The look in Kurt’s eyes was akin to astonishment, but he still extended his arms to accept his son. “That was amazing,” he whispered as he brushed a kiss over Bryson’s forehead.

“I have many skills,” Xena whispered back, causing both him and Gabrielle to roll their eyes and snicker. She simply sniffed and stuck her nose into the air, even as she opened the door for both of them to pass through. It only took a minute for Kurt to settle Bryson into the playpen he’d brought in so that he could stay with Brittany for the duration. He gave a hug to each woman as they said goodbye, then they scooted out of the room and headed down to the infirmary.



Chapter XCIX

Hippolyta was sitting up in her bed, arms crossed over her chest when they walked into the trauma unit. She knew hers was the first room they would come to when they entered, and she wanted to be ready to receive them. She heard Elizabeth greet them and settled in to wait.

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

Xena’s eyebrow rose into her hairline when she saw Elizabeth still on duty. Surely Shannon had come in to relieve her - otherwise, she’d been on duty for almost twenty-four hours. Elizabeth noted the expression and smirked. “Don’t get your panties in a twist, Chief. Shannon’s here and in the office at the moment trying to catch up on paperwork, and Riley’s due in shortly. I just came to check on everyone like you. This place is my responsibility, you know… especially when you’ve got other things to take care of,” with a sideways glance at Gabrielle.

Green eyes rolled hard enough they could almost hear the squeak. “Standing right here, ya know,” she offered impatiently, though her eyes twinkled.

“Yes ma’am,” Elizabeth remarked calmly. “I can see that. And you look good, if I may,” nodding her head slightly to show her respect.

Gabrielle grinned. “You may, in fact. And thank you… I feel almost human again,” knowing the woman would understand the underlying message.

“Good. It’s nice to see Xena back to her normal eye color as well. She looks odd with green eyes,” with a smile as she turned back to Xena and handed her the iPad she’d been holding. “As you can see, everyone is doing as well as can be expected. A couple are ahead in their recovery and are chomping at the bit to get out of here. And one SO has already called several times.”

Xena scrolled through the records. “Let me guess… Gail Peck,” smirking when Elizabeth nodded her head vehemently. “I’ll take care of it,” before she could say anything else. “I see Hippolyta is trying not to cause a problem.”

“Yes, but she really wants out of here… not that I blame her. It’s not like we’re excitement central when things are going like they’re supposed to. I don’t see a reason not to let her move upstairs if Dr. Torres is okay with it, but she’s not due back until tomorrow afternoon. I don’t know if the Regent will stay restrained that long.”

“Has she been walking yet?”

“Yes, I have,” came a voice from the now open door of unit one, where Hippolyta stood leaning against a rolling walker. “Please don’t talk around me. I’m perfectly capable of thinking and talking for myself.”

Elizabeth gave her a slight bow. “No disrespect intended.”

“And none taken,” Gabrielle assured before Hippolyta could build herself up into a state. “I’ll take responsibility for moving Hippolyta upstairs. We have business to attend to.” She was polite, but her words had a no-nonsense tone behind them, and Elizabeth recognized the authority behind them. She nodded.

“As you say, My Queen,” she replied. They turned to look at Hippolyta, who had clamped her lips together to keep herself from making any comment. “Regent, you are clear to go under the Queen’s supervision. Please don’t do something stupid that will get me into trouble with Dr. Torres. I like having her on speed-dial when I need an ortho, and you really don’t want to be on her bad side.”

“Does she know who I am?” Elizabeth nodded. “And you really think she would say something to me?”

“No, Majesty… I know she would. Your title means nothing to her. Your health, on the other hand… especially where her reputation is concerned….” She shrugged. “I wouldn’t want to be you.”

Hippolyta held her gaze for a moment, then snorted as she turned her eyes to an amused Gabrielle. “Sometimes, I miss the old days.” She flexed her leg gently and winced. “This is not one of those times. I will give up my authority in this area to this doctor… at least until I have the opportunity to take her measure for myself.”

Gabrielle offered her arm and patted the hand that cupped her bicep. “A very wise decision,” she advised her regent. “Callie is the best in the City; one of the best in the country.”

Hippolyta nodded. “All right, My Queen. If you will accompany me upstairs, we can discuss that business of yours. Then maybe I can get a shower. I’m tired of smelling like a battlefield,” Hippolyta snarked.

“No getting that bandage wet!” Elizabeth instructed firmly, not flinching when Hippolyta turned back and glared at her. “I’m serious, Hippolyta,” watching the regent’s eyes widen at her familiarity. “Do not get that bandage or those stitches wet. Or I’ll bring you back down here and tie you to the bed until Dr. Torres can take a look at you.”

Gabrielle again patted the hand that had tightened on her arm. “Not to worry, Elizabeth. I know how to take care of a wounded warrior that needs a bath. I’ll take care of Hippolyta. You two….” She motioned around the trauma unit. “Make your visits; see to your other patients.” She turned her attention to Xena. “I’ll see you upstairs later?”

“I’ll bring a late supper.”

Gabrielle quirked an eyebrow and nodded. She waited for the regent to regain her balance on the walker, then they made their way out of the trauma wing slowly and headed upstairs. Elizabeth waited until she was sure she heard the elevator doors close behind them.

“Thank you,” she said quietly. “I’m sure I could have handled the regent, but it was a lot easier with you and Gabrielle here.”

Xena smirked. “It usually is. C’mon. I want to check on everyone else, and I need to call Gail Peck before it gets too late.”

“Yeah… I don’t envy you that. Her girlfriend has been lovely, but she’s something of a head case.”

Xena shook her head. “Nah… she’s just a worried girlfriend. She’s probably never been in this situation before. She’s the cop; her girlfriend is the doctor. She’s not supposed to be hurt.”

Elizabeth nodded. “As you say. Shall we check in on her next?”

“Let me look in on Cat Grant. I haven’t spoken to JJ since he started working on her yesterday, and as usual, his notes leave something to be desired.”

Elizabeth snorted. “His only saving grace is he knows his business and patients love him.”

“Which is more than I can say for his Chief-of-Staff most days.” Xena knocked on the door to Cat’s room, then stuck her head in. “Ms. Grant?” waiting for hazel eyes to slowly open. “How are you feeling?” she asked as she crossed the room. She wrapped a hand around Cat’s wrist as she studied the woman in front of her. The sharp wit and sarcastic tongue were absent, silenced by the pain that was apparent in the eye not covered in gauze. She sighed.

“I don’t think dead would feel this bad,” she joked macabrely, her lips barely moving under the tightness of the bandage. She didn’t see the twitch in Xena’s eye at her words.

“Well, fortunately for you, I don’t think you’re going to find out. Did Jeff talk to you about your treatment?”

“Yes, but I don’t have time for all that. Can’t we just slap something on it and call it done? I have a perfectly good plastic surgeon who can make it all pretty later.”

“No,” Xena replied forcefully, causing Cat to straighten unconsciously. “Jeff is the best in the business - not  just as a plastic surgeon, but as a burn doctor. He will give you your best chance of healing, and when you’ve done all you can manage on your own, well… we’ve got some prototypes that will make you almost as good as new. People may even accuse you of using botox.”

Cat snorted, then held her head in her hands. “Ow. I’ve got to remember not to do that.”

Xena patted her leg. “Don’t worry. We’ll get you back to normal. It’s just gonna take a little time.”

“How much time?”

“Enough that you’ll be out of public life for a little while, and that Carter should be made aware of what’s going on.”

Cat rested the healthy side of her face against one hand. “Does he really need to?”

“Would you prefer to lie to him?”

“No… just… can it wait for another day or two? I’d like to at least feel like a human being… even if I can’t look like one.”

“You let us know when you’re ready. We have a place he can stay here with us if you’d like to keep him close during your recovery. It’s up to you.” She checked the IV and the connections, then changed the speed of the drip until the painkiller was moving at a steady clip. “Here,” she said, nodding Elizabeth to the other side of the bed. They fluffed the pillows so Cat stayed at an angle, then lowered the bed and the lights. “Try to get some sleep. No one will bother you unless you ask for something. Dr. Johnson has an aggressive treatment plan for you, and he’ll be back in the morning to check on you.”

Cat nodded and closed her eye. Then she opened it and met Xena’s. “Can he really do something with this? Because I have to be honest with you - if it looks even half as bad as it feels, I’m not going to be looking in a mirror for a while.”

Xena gave her a reassuring smile and nodded. “He’s gonna make you look so good, people are going to accuse you of having gotten a facelift.”

All she could do was offer half a smile, but what Xena could see was genuine. “Nothing to do for it but hope for the best at this point.” She gave Xena a slightly sardonic look. “I was looking for a reason to leave the job of Press Secretary.” She pointed to her swathed face. “Guess even Olivia will have to accept that this is reason enough.”

Xena placed a hand on Cat’s shoulder and squeezed lightly. “We wouldn’t have had this happen to you or anyone else if we could have managed it.”

“Yes, and if the world was a perfect place, idiots like Saligia never would have gotten a foothold. Hey… maybe I’ll find time to write that memoir while I’m healing. May as well put the time to good use, right?”

Xena smiled, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes. “You decide you want to do that, let Gabrielle know. She’d love to help if you decide you want someone to collaborate with.”

Cat nodded. “I’ve read some of her work - she’s fantastic.”

“She is… and I say that with all the bias I have,” causing Cat to chuckle, then yawn… and wince.

“Give me a few days so this doesn’t hurt so bad,” she yawned again. “And where all I want to do is sleep.”

“Sleep is good for you. Jeff will be here in the morning, and I’ll try to be here when he is.” She looked at the Pad again. “Man needs to learn how to write notes.”

Cat snuggled further into the pillow and smirked as she closed her eyes. “Give me a little time with him; he’ll be writing like a pro,” she mumbled as she fell asleep. Xena watched her for another moment, then walked back towards back to Elizabeth, who was standing at the door regarding her with a grin. Xena cocked a brow in question.

“I’d kinda like to see Cat Grant school Doc JJ. I think the entertainment value alone would be worth his butt hurt.” She passed through the open door and held it for Xena, then closed it as silently as she could manage.

Xena snorted. “Pretty sure we’re all gonna have a front row seat for that. Cat’s not gonna not teach him at this point… just to make a point. C’mon,” stopping in front of the unit four door. “Let’s see how Dr. Stewart is doing.” She rapped on the door, then stuck her head in.

“Good evening, Dr. Stewart. How are you feeling?”

She blew out a slow breath and smiled, though she was wise enough not to try to move. “Speaking as Holly, I’ve had better days. Speaking as Dr. Stewart, however, I’d have to say I’m doing very well all in all. There is soreness where the knife went in and surgery was performed, but there is no heat or swelling; no fever; nothing that indicates infection. Aside from a little residual dizziness and pain if I try to move too much or too quickly, I feel pretty good,” giving Xena a frank look.

“So I can tell your girlfriend to lay off and take a chill pill?” eyes twinkling so Holly could see she was teasing… just a little bit. Elizabeth snorted at her words, then covered her mouth with her hand to keep from laughing out loud. Holly blushed becomingly and cleared her throat.

“Probably, yes. I don’t think she’s ever been on that side of this equation before. Usually, she’s the one getting hurt, you know, and I’m the one waiting at home for a phone call.” She offered them an ironic look. “I can’t say this side of things is a whole lot better than the other.”

Xena chuckled. “There is no good side,” she assured her. “The only good outcome here is for no one to get hurt in the first place.”
“Hear! Hear!” Holly cheered. “I’ll drink to that.”

“And as long as you keep hydrating, you should continue to improve. Now, as the patient Holly, and not as Dr. Stewart, what would you like me to share with your girlfriend? Keep in mind that you’re still looking at spending another two or three days here, depending on your readings and test results.”

Holly bit her lip pensively, weighing Xena’s words against what she knew of her lover. Finally… “Do you think maybe she could come visit tomorrow? I think she’d feel a lot better if she could have some kind of visual reassurance that I’m doing okay.”

Xena nodded. “Absolutely. I’m going to call her in just a few minutes. I’ll let her know she is free to come in and visit with you tomorrow.”

“You, um… you may have a problem getting her to leave.”

“No, I won’t. If she becomes difficult, I will have you transported to a public hospital to finish your recovery before you’re released. It’s not something I want to do; I believe you’ll recover here faster than anywhere else. But I won’t permit her to disrupt things here. There are still patients in critical care.”

Holly nodded. “I’ll make sure she understands. She won’t give you any problems.”

“I hope not,” Xena replied sincerely. “I like Gail, and I love the way she loves you so desperately,” smiling when Holly blushed again. “But she’s got to calm down a little or she’s not going to make it to old age. She’s gonna worry herself into a heart attack.”

Holly took Xena’s hand from her wrist and held it in her own. “Will you tell her that, please? I think she thinks I say it to nag. I’d love for her to know it’s not just me.”

Xena patted the hand surrounding hers and smiled. “I’ll make sure she understands. Now… how do you feel about solid food?”

Holly perked up. “Oooooh. I love solid food. It’s my favorite kind of food in the whole world.”

Xena chuckled again, happy with Holly’s enthusiasm. “Well… we’re gonna start with soft solids - pudding, jello… Ice cream if the cold doesn’t bother you much. Maybe tomorrow you can advance to scrambled eggs and oatmeal.”

“Well, it’s not steak and potatoes, but it sure beats this liquid diet thing I’ve got going on right now.”

Elizabeth laughed. “Anything beats that liquid diet. They don’t even come in flavors,” she added as she finished checking the lines. She gave Xena a nod. “I’ll go see about rustling up some untextured, flavored food.”

Xena adjusted the pillow behind Holly’s head and helped her adjust into a different position before she gave her a once-over and nodded in satisfaction. “Make sure you eat whatever Elizabeth brings you - fuel for recovery. I’m going to go call Gail, and I’ll be back in the morning.”

“Thanks, Xena. Who knew the dead would be this strong?”

“Certainly not me. They’re supposed to be dead,” causing Holly to chuckle at her disbelieving expression. “Make sure you get some rest after you eat. And if you need something - especially something to help you sleep - don’t hesitate to call the charge nurse. She has instructions about that.” She cleared her throat and moved towards the door. “I’m gonna go call your girlfriend. Happy dreams, Doc.”

“Happy dreams, Xena.”

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

“I’d like to come down there tonight,” Gail wheedled when Xena had explained the situation.

“No. This is not a hospital, Officer Peck. This is a privately owned trauma institution. There is not room for you to simply hang out overnight.”

“And if I come anyway?”

Xena pinched the bridge of her nose. “If you come anyway, I will have Dr. Stewart removed to a public hospital, and you will deal with the rules they have there.” She sighed. “Gail, Holly is recovering just fine. There’s no bleeding; no infection; no fever. She just needs a little more time to get her levels back to where they should be and for the wound to heal sufficiently for her to get around under her own power without fear of tearing the stitches.”

“I miss her,” said in a shaky, whispered voice.

“I know you do… better than you realize yourself. I promise you we’re doing everything we can to return her to you as quickly as we can, and in as good or better shape than she was.”

Gail gave her a watery, wicked smile. “I dunno, Doc. She was in pretty fantastic shape before all this started.”

“And she will be again. Your girl is quite a fighter.”

“And bull-headed stubborn.”

“I wasn’t going to say that, but I’m not going to disagree either. Come in the morning around eight. You can stay the day, if you like. Bring flowers but hold off on the snacks just yet. I just moved her to soft foods this evening. I wanna see how she does with that first.”

“You got it, Xena,” in a much better mood. “See you tomorrow.” And she cut the connection before Xena could. A knock on the door made Xena lift her head from where it hand been resting in her hands. She looked up to see Dr. Ron Shannon poking his head in the door. She motioned him forward and to the chair in front of her desk. Then they got down to the business of going over the rest of the charts.

Part 12